This is just a check in post, but I am going to do something new with my check-in posts as of now. Since I don't have a lot of time to sit down and type my ideas on these days, what I'll do instead is post a few links, or embed some videos or something. If I can't provide my own thoughts, the least I can to is provide someone else's to hold you over. So I'll post a few things I found interesting, and maybe leave a brief statement of my thoughts about them. Let's give it a try.
- check out my Doug Bailey's MLB Predictions for this year at his blog. The Sports Geek
- Asher Roth's new mixtape has released. I haven't heard it yet, but expect good things. Trust me, the download is safe, I got it off his facebook fanpage, and no one seems to complain about it Seared Foie Gras with Quince and Cranberry
- Actor Danny Glover was in town to bring attention to the boycott of Hugo Boss attire. People in the Cleveland area may lose their jobs as the formal wear supplier wants to outsource. It was a really classy move my him to come into town. Actor in Town to Help Save Jobs
- Speaking of Danny Glover, the new movie he's in, Death at a Funeral, looks hilarious.
That's what I got. Have a good night, y'all.
-Hype
March 23, 2010
March 20, 2010
Big Ups To Two Ohio Congressman
I just wanted to show a little respect tonight for a couple of US Congressman from Ohio that stepped up and have decided to do the right thing. Both within this week, House of Representatives members Dennis Kucinich (10th district) and John Boccieri (16th district) decided to change their minds and have stated that they are now in favor of, and will vote as such when the Obama Healthcare bill comes to a vote on the floor of the House in US Congress, some time in the near future. As I understand it, Speaker of the House Pelosi is waiting to call the vote until she is entirely certain the bill will have enough pledged votes to ensure passing. Kucinich and Boccieri have brought such a date 2 steps closer.
Kucinich and Boccieri's choices are interesting, considering they come from opposite sides of the spectrum in a sense. Kucinich originally was not going to vote in favor of the bill because it didn't include one of his own plans with in it, a pretty sorry excuse for voting nay if you ask me. If a Congressman only voted for things he personally had a major hand in, all the time, I doubt much legislation would ever get passed. His change of heart has been taken with some disappointment for some though. Many people feel that Kucinich caved to the pressures of the Obama administration. I doubt this is the truth. This is Dennis Kucinich we're talking about. This is the man who pushed for Dick Cheney to be tried as a traitor, a very liberal and established Democrat known for standing by his own radical antics. He's not the type to let someone else pressure him into anything. In fact, to take the less popular stance and go in favor of this bill, and change sides as he has, is probably right in line with what I'd consider classic Kucinich, he's going against the grain.
As for Boccieri, I know less about him. He's not been around as long, but has still made a name for himself. His original stance was much more in line with a typical disagreement with the bill, that the bill was simply too cost oriented, essentially, too expensive. I'd be more expectant that the pressure of Obama may have gotten to Boccieri, but wouldn't say it for sure. He may have realized this is the best America is going to do as far as a health care solution goes for now, or he may have simply had a change of heart in regards to the bill. I wasn't fortunate enough to actually see his explanation, so I can't tell you for sure.
What I can tell you is that I'm proud of these Congressman for doing the right thing, and representing their districts properly (there is a large movement for the bill in these parts of Ohio, with lots of urban and blue collar people). That's what matters, and of course the fact that they are helping bring health care aid to those that need it so desperately. They are doing it despite the politics that have ridden this saga that the health care debate has become, and despite the possible unpopularity or political ramifications that could come from it. Although I'm sure my politics clearly shine through in this post, I think we can all agree that as long as the above ideals are fulfilled, then the right thing has been done.
Perhaps I'll talk in the coming days about what the health care bill is exactly about, what benefits it contains and such. Too few are informed in these kinds of things. It would be good to get them out. Otherwise, its just nice to see some progress from Congress.
-Hype
Kucinich and Boccieri's choices are interesting, considering they come from opposite sides of the spectrum in a sense. Kucinich originally was not going to vote in favor of the bill because it didn't include one of his own plans with in it, a pretty sorry excuse for voting nay if you ask me. If a Congressman only voted for things he personally had a major hand in, all the time, I doubt much legislation would ever get passed. His change of heart has been taken with some disappointment for some though. Many people feel that Kucinich caved to the pressures of the Obama administration. I doubt this is the truth. This is Dennis Kucinich we're talking about. This is the man who pushed for Dick Cheney to be tried as a traitor, a very liberal and established Democrat known for standing by his own radical antics. He's not the type to let someone else pressure him into anything. In fact, to take the less popular stance and go in favor of this bill, and change sides as he has, is probably right in line with what I'd consider classic Kucinich, he's going against the grain.
As for Boccieri, I know less about him. He's not been around as long, but has still made a name for himself. His original stance was much more in line with a typical disagreement with the bill, that the bill was simply too cost oriented, essentially, too expensive. I'd be more expectant that the pressure of Obama may have gotten to Boccieri, but wouldn't say it for sure. He may have realized this is the best America is going to do as far as a health care solution goes for now, or he may have simply had a change of heart in regards to the bill. I wasn't fortunate enough to actually see his explanation, so I can't tell you for sure.
What I can tell you is that I'm proud of these Congressman for doing the right thing, and representing their districts properly (there is a large movement for the bill in these parts of Ohio, with lots of urban and blue collar people). That's what matters, and of course the fact that they are helping bring health care aid to those that need it so desperately. They are doing it despite the politics that have ridden this saga that the health care debate has become, and despite the possible unpopularity or political ramifications that could come from it. Although I'm sure my politics clearly shine through in this post, I think we can all agree that as long as the above ideals are fulfilled, then the right thing has been done.
Perhaps I'll talk in the coming days about what the health care bill is exactly about, what benefits it contains and such. Too few are informed in these kinds of things. It would be good to get them out. Otherwise, its just nice to see some progress from Congress.
-Hype
March 18, 2010
Its All About the Madness
March Madness of course. My bracket is all set, and I'm doing surprisingly well so far, granted we're not even through the first night of the first round yet. This is an epic time of year though if you ask me. Its the NCAA Basketball Tournament, its the biggest crap shoot that there is. Capable of making a complete novice look like an expert and vice versa. College basketball is the one sport where I actually am more novice than expert, at least in the major national sports. I only care about it if its March or later, but now I certainly care about it. My bracket is done, but I'm not playing for money in a pool, just pride. Its about to be an excite month of basketball though, hopefully full of upsets and quality games. There's already been a couple of overtime thrillers today to get things started, and an upset in Murray St.'s victory. Hopefully its a sign of things to come. But for now, here are a few notable things about the bracket I filled out:
Winner: Villanova, its all about Scottie Reynolds
Runner-up: Ohio St., Turner almost outduels Reynolds
Final 4: OSU, Syracuse, Kentucky, Nova
Surprising Elite 8 teams: Maryland (defeat Houston, MSU, and Kansas) Xavier (defeat Minnesota, Pitt, and Kansas St.), and Purdue (defeat Siena, Tex A&M, and Cal)
Surprising Sweet 16 teams: San Diego St. (defeat Tennessee and Ohio), Murray St. (defeat Vandy and Butler), Xavier, Temple (defeat Cornell and Wiscansin), California (defeat Louisville and Duke), Purdue, and Notre Dame (defeat Old Dominion and Baylor)
biggest upset: #14 Ohio over #3 Georgetown, don't underestimate the power of a team getting hot at the right time.
Admittedly, I went more with my heart than my head this year. I played favorites, and made Ohio teams go deeper than they should, but this is the NCAA tournament. Its about hopes and dreams, and its about making bold predictions and either looking like a genius or idiot afterward. I'm going for genius this year. I was a genius in 2004 when I correctly predicted a Connecticut vs Georgia Tech championship game, only to pick GT over UConn and ultimately lose. I haven't gotten close to being that close to right since, but this is my year. After all, it is the tournament of hopes and dreams.
I'll be sure to recap as the tournament goes on.
Winner: Villanova, its all about Scottie Reynolds
Runner-up: Ohio St., Turner almost outduels Reynolds
Final 4: OSU, Syracuse, Kentucky, Nova
Surprising Elite 8 teams: Maryland (defeat Houston, MSU, and Kansas) Xavier (defeat Minnesota, Pitt, and Kansas St.), and Purdue (defeat Siena, Tex A&M, and Cal)
Surprising Sweet 16 teams: San Diego St. (defeat Tennessee and Ohio), Murray St. (defeat Vandy and Butler), Xavier, Temple (defeat Cornell and Wiscansin), California (defeat Louisville and Duke), Purdue, and Notre Dame (defeat Old Dominion and Baylor)
biggest upset: #14 Ohio over #3 Georgetown, don't underestimate the power of a team getting hot at the right time.
Admittedly, I went more with my heart than my head this year. I played favorites, and made Ohio teams go deeper than they should, but this is the NCAA tournament. Its about hopes and dreams, and its about making bold predictions and either looking like a genius or idiot afterward. I'm going for genius this year. I was a genius in 2004 when I correctly predicted a Connecticut vs Georgia Tech championship game, only to pick GT over UConn and ultimately lose. I haven't gotten close to being that close to right since, but this is my year. After all, it is the tournament of hopes and dreams.
I'll be sure to recap as the tournament goes on.
March 14, 2010
Reason for No Post Yesterday
Stupid Daylight Savings time... with the spring forward. I had to go to bed early yesterday, because I'd prefer not to go to bed at 3 AM, and then I ended up sleeping late because of the time change. I just consider this a minor inconvenience though. Daylight Savings Time has its merits. For one, it was still light out at like 7:30 when I was out. In fact, that basically is the merit of the time change, its darker later, which in my opinion trumps the fact its dark later in the morning, because that will change within a few weeks. I like the fact its still light out at like 9 PM at some points in the summer it makes it all worth it to me. So, its a minor inconvenience for an eventual positive situation. Plus, the time change means summer is approaching and I can't wait for that at all.
Which leads me to one other semi-related point I'd like to make. Tonight, with spring break ending, I go back to school tomorrow. It sounds like a lame scenario, but I'm trying to focus on the silver lining. There are only 8 more weeks until summer starts, and I don't have class then for like 3 months. Its brilliant, and I'm finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel. The only problem with this is, summer approaching means I need to find a job. Like I need to find a job, desperately, I haven't had stable, formal work/income before, just odd jobs helping people and stuff. I need something, for my own good in so many ways. Maybe that's a post for another day. At any rate, if you know anybody looking for a well spoken young man that needs work, let me know, haha. Another small inconvenience lies here I guess, but I won't let it detract me from what's more important, and can make me happy. So, I'm glad you are here, Daylight Savings Time.
As for other stuff going on, I watched a couple really good (but older) movies that were on television today. Time permitting, I'd like to talk about them tomorrow, then I got a couple other things planned for this week as well. I'm slightly disappointed in myself for not posting last night or this morning. Its a missed opportunity. But such is life.
- Hype
Which leads me to one other semi-related point I'd like to make. Tonight, with spring break ending, I go back to school tomorrow. It sounds like a lame scenario, but I'm trying to focus on the silver lining. There are only 8 more weeks until summer starts, and I don't have class then for like 3 months. Its brilliant, and I'm finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel. The only problem with this is, summer approaching means I need to find a job. Like I need to find a job, desperately, I haven't had stable, formal work/income before, just odd jobs helping people and stuff. I need something, for my own good in so many ways. Maybe that's a post for another day. At any rate, if you know anybody looking for a well spoken young man that needs work, let me know, haha. Another small inconvenience lies here I guess, but I won't let it detract me from what's more important, and can make me happy. So, I'm glad you are here, Daylight Savings Time.
As for other stuff going on, I watched a couple really good (but older) movies that were on television today. Time permitting, I'd like to talk about them tomorrow, then I got a couple other things planned for this week as well. I'm slightly disappointed in myself for not posting last night or this morning. Its a missed opportunity. But such is life.
- Hype
March 13, 2010
The Weirdest 9 and a Half Minutes of My Life
WARNING: BAD LANGUAGE AND ALL-AROUND WEIRDNESS, YOU'VE BEEN WARNED
So a friend of mine just dropped this as a link on my facebook page. Its the video for Lady Gaga and Beyonce's song "Telephone", a decent song at least, but its taken a very awkward turn. So I clicked the link, and began to watch the 9 and a half minutes that ensued. I have to say I feel like a completely different person now that I've seen what I've seen, and the biggest feeling I have right now is that of having no freaking idea what just happened. I knew Lady Gaga was peculiar, but this takes the cake. I'm seriously baffled. I don't know if I should call what I just saw a brilliant piece of art or one of the most convolutedly stupid things I've ever seen. I'm leaning towards the latter though.
Pardon me if my thoughts are bouncing around a little bit in this post, my mind is jumbled from what I just saw. I think I may just ramble on for a while. Maybe its just context, but I have no idea what's going on in the video or how it pertains to the song. How does now wanting people to call you because you're in the club have anything to do with poisoning Tyrese Gibson, among others, and then driving off in a truck that's name I don't even want to mention? What the hell is going on here? Seriously... why is Beyonce signing off on this kind of thing, and what's with the little pseudo-lesbian thing she's got going on in this (I was at least feeling that vibe)? There were very few parts of this video that I enjoyed truly. The only that come to mind were the early bit where Gaga slights the people who said she may have "male parts". I found it funny. That and when Beyonce actually says the f word, because its so out of place and unexpected that it becomes amusing.
Maybe I'm missing something. Maybe there is some metaphor, or reference that I'm just not getting. Maybe something in all of this is "all the rage" and I'm just not hip to it. If someone knows something I don't here, please, please inform me, so I can know better and move on (it really means that much to me, ha). Seriously though, maybe there is some artistic or intellectual basis that I just don't know about to all of this.
The only thing that really comes to mind in all of this though, is that Gaga is trying to become a Michael Jackson, or Madonna, or Prince. I'd advise her to stop trying so hard, she's coming off as a wannabe. I mean, think about it. She's making basically, a 9.5 minute small movie out of like a 3 minute song. Furthermore, its one of the most mentally deranged short movies I've ever seen. She's trying to be shocking and artsy and at the very least, I'm seeing through it. Its nothing truly original. She's recycling an old idea; wear really strange things and act "dangerous" while singing very pop friendly songs. Its all been done before, and with only a couple small exceptions, I'm not very amused with her effort. I'm more frightened and perplexed if anything. And seriously Beyonce... what happened? Does Sean (Jay-Z) approve? I thought you were at least normal.
I think I might have nightmares tonight.
- Hype
So a friend of mine just dropped this as a link on my facebook page. Its the video for Lady Gaga and Beyonce's song "Telephone", a decent song at least, but its taken a very awkward turn. So I clicked the link, and began to watch the 9 and a half minutes that ensued. I have to say I feel like a completely different person now that I've seen what I've seen, and the biggest feeling I have right now is that of having no freaking idea what just happened. I knew Lady Gaga was peculiar, but this takes the cake. I'm seriously baffled. I don't know if I should call what I just saw a brilliant piece of art or one of the most convolutedly stupid things I've ever seen. I'm leaning towards the latter though.
Pardon me if my thoughts are bouncing around a little bit in this post, my mind is jumbled from what I just saw. I think I may just ramble on for a while. Maybe its just context, but I have no idea what's going on in the video or how it pertains to the song. How does now wanting people to call you because you're in the club have anything to do with poisoning Tyrese Gibson, among others, and then driving off in a truck that's name I don't even want to mention? What the hell is going on here? Seriously... why is Beyonce signing off on this kind of thing, and what's with the little pseudo-lesbian thing she's got going on in this (I was at least feeling that vibe)? There were very few parts of this video that I enjoyed truly. The only that come to mind were the early bit where Gaga slights the people who said she may have "male parts". I found it funny. That and when Beyonce actually says the f word, because its so out of place and unexpected that it becomes amusing.
Maybe I'm missing something. Maybe there is some metaphor, or reference that I'm just not getting. Maybe something in all of this is "all the rage" and I'm just not hip to it. If someone knows something I don't here, please, please inform me, so I can know better and move on (it really means that much to me, ha). Seriously though, maybe there is some artistic or intellectual basis that I just don't know about to all of this.
The only thing that really comes to mind in all of this though, is that Gaga is trying to become a Michael Jackson, or Madonna, or Prince. I'd advise her to stop trying so hard, she's coming off as a wannabe. I mean, think about it. She's making basically, a 9.5 minute small movie out of like a 3 minute song. Furthermore, its one of the most mentally deranged short movies I've ever seen. She's trying to be shocking and artsy and at the very least, I'm seeing through it. Its nothing truly original. She's recycling an old idea; wear really strange things and act "dangerous" while singing very pop friendly songs. Its all been done before, and with only a couple small exceptions, I'm not very amused with her effort. I'm more frightened and perplexed if anything. And seriously Beyonce... what happened? Does Sean (Jay-Z) approve? I thought you were at least normal.
I think I might have nightmares tonight.
- Hype
March 12, 2010
What's With This Weather?
Today's story... the crazy scenery of the Cleveland, Ohio area. Allow me to elaborate. It reached somewhere around 70 degrees today, it was sunny, and quite pleasant out. I'll be entirely honest, it really was a beautiful day, I spent some time outside playing basketball, and had it not gotten dark so early, I probably would have gone and sat out and enjoyed it more after dinner. Luckily, the whole getting dark early thing won't be a problem after Saturday, Daylight Savings Time change day. Anyway, what's strange about this? Well, nothing within itself, other than its quite a bit warmer than normal for March in Cleveland, but that's not all that strange. What was strange though was the fact there was snow still on the ground. As of tomorrow, it won't have snowed for 2 weeks. We had so much snow then though, that it still hasn't all melted. Maybe Forbes is right about us after all (I doubt it). If nothing else, I'm filing it as more proof that something goofy is going on with the weather patterns right now. Its just so bizarre. I mean, my dad remarked tonight how strange it was to take the dog out for their nightly walk, in short sleeves, in the warmth, while there was still snow out there on the ground And of course, the ground is saturated in all the water, and the rain expected tomorrow may lead to some flooding, but hopefully nothing too serious.. I guess I'm not really complaining though, I'm just sharing an interesting and rare scenario, and its probably a pretty common scenario right now around the northern parts of the country, come to think of it. I'm sure we're not the only area still with snow on the ground and warmth in the air. Its still just so mind boggling though. I don't think I had seen this before.
Unfortunately, that's all she wrote for tonight. Be good y'all.
Unfortunately, that's all she wrote for tonight. Be good y'all.
March 11, 2010
What is Our Duty as Privileged?
This post stems from something I heard someone say (they will remain nameless) recently. It was in regard to the Haitian earthquake, and the like. My acquaintance was showing disdain for the fact that because this tragic and traumatic earthquake had hit the unfortunate, and often under-privileged people of Haiti, said people would need outside help and efforts from our own US Government would be used. This person was disappointed that time, and effort, and money would be used, by our government, in order to help the people of Haiti. He was disappointed that a people that don't care for government, or our style of life, or the type of civilization we live in, would now come crawling to us in their moment of need. That its their own dang fault for not reinforcing their buildings and homes properly in the first place. And now, the US government, already immersed in trillions of dollars of debt, and with military forces stretched thin all over the world, would now have to come in and help.
How incredibly ignorant is all this? I feel like it is, but at the same time, in a slight way, it isn't. My acquaintance at least makes a valid point, we have absolutely no obligation to help the Haitian people, it is technically not our problem. I don't think his anger or disdain is so much directed at the Haitian people, they are merely the individuals unfortunately planted into this situation. His frustration more comes with the situation and the expectation that the US Government needs to act, especially when we have our own, although relatively smaller, problems.
So I guess what I'm trying to get at is... as a privileged society, what is our duty to aid the rest of the less fortunate of the world? Obviously, first we have our own less fortunate, what about them? Where do they factor in? How do we help with natural disasters? What about other issues? The Bush administration was clearly more than willing to get us more involved in the rest of the world. What about Obama? There are so many questions, and so few concrete answers. I'm just naming a few.
The fact remains though. There are people out there that need the help of someone who can afford to help. Shouldn't we give it a try if we are capable? I'd say so, unless it greatly conflicts with our best interests. I think its fair to say helping repair after these natural disasters doesn't create a major issue in a conflict of interest. So we should do it. Not to spread the merits of democracy, not because we will expect something in return, not because its a way to show our influence over the world. We should do it because its right, and we are a good people typically, and our government is meant to be a representation of us. So they should mimic us. No? Any thoughts?
How incredibly ignorant is all this? I feel like it is, but at the same time, in a slight way, it isn't. My acquaintance at least makes a valid point, we have absolutely no obligation to help the Haitian people, it is technically not our problem. I don't think his anger or disdain is so much directed at the Haitian people, they are merely the individuals unfortunately planted into this situation. His frustration more comes with the situation and the expectation that the US Government needs to act, especially when we have our own, although relatively smaller, problems.
So I guess what I'm trying to get at is... as a privileged society, what is our duty to aid the rest of the less fortunate of the world? Obviously, first we have our own less fortunate, what about them? Where do they factor in? How do we help with natural disasters? What about other issues? The Bush administration was clearly more than willing to get us more involved in the rest of the world. What about Obama? There are so many questions, and so few concrete answers. I'm just naming a few.
The fact remains though. There are people out there that need the help of someone who can afford to help. Shouldn't we give it a try if we are capable? I'd say so, unless it greatly conflicts with our best interests. I think its fair to say helping repair after these natural disasters doesn't create a major issue in a conflict of interest. So we should do it. Not to spread the merits of democracy, not because we will expect something in return, not because its a way to show our influence over the world. We should do it because its right, and we are a good people typically, and our government is meant to be a representation of us. So they should mimic us. No? Any thoughts?
March 10, 2010
DA Ripped Cleveland on Way Out
I apologize in advance, this probably won't be my last posting about the Derek Anderson saga, but I felt like mentioning it. Anderson's exactly words to the News Herald yesterday were that Cleveland fans are "ruthless" and "don't deserve a winner". He also brought up how it was cheered as he layed upon the turf of Cleveland Browns Stadium, injured. I hate to say it, but he's right in a way. Cleveland fans are so fickle, its ridiculous. They love you one day and hate you the next. This is a pro bowler that won 11 games in a season, and you CHEER HIS INJURY? What kinds of crap is that? He has every right to speak his mind on that situation, now that he has the opportunity.
He later went on to say that he hopes he starts wherever he goes next, and he hopes they beat down the Browns. Well, that would be his job now, and that comes with the territory of the Browns cutting him. That should be his mindset now if you ask me.
Finally, Anderson was also honest about it. He said he knew he didn't always play really well, but its clear he gave it all he had. I still give him best wishes regardless of what he's said, and especially now that I'm reading this morning that he backtracked and apologized for his comments. He doesn't even need to, but it was nice that he did.
Good luck DA.
- Hype
He later went on to say that he hopes he starts wherever he goes next, and he hopes they beat down the Browns. Well, that would be his job now, and that comes with the territory of the Browns cutting him. That should be his mindset now if you ask me.
Finally, Anderson was also honest about it. He said he knew he didn't always play really well, but its clear he gave it all he had. I still give him best wishes regardless of what he's said, and especially now that I'm reading this morning that he backtracked and apologized for his comments. He doesn't even need to, but it was nice that he did.
Good luck DA.
- Hype
Good-bye, DA, I Will Miss You
I doubt I can say the same about the rest of Cleveland though. This may not be very big news anywhere else, but the Cleveland Browns cut former starting QB Derek Anderson today, a day after signing Seneca Wallace from the Seattle Seahawks. This was done obviously because, who needs a 6 foot 6 brute of a QB with a laser arm that led your team to 11 wins 2 years ago, when you can have Seneca Wallace, whose best asset is his speed and lack of ability to pass. Now, I realize Wallace is a decent backup and has been brought in because he's familiar with the Mike Holmgren system. That's fair. And truth is, things weren't probably gonna work out with Anderson here anyway. He had the one good year, never got the respected he deserved and never played as well again. I think at some point, he lost some confidence, plus never had and entirely solid offensive line. Perhaps the change of scenery will do him good, perhaps it won't. As one of the few Anderson supporters in the city, I think it will and have devised a plan as to what will happen next. Expect DA to be signed by Minnesota, and back up Brett Favre. Under Favre's tutelage, the tutelage of a fellow gun-slinger type QB, Anderson will learn immensely. Then, when Favre retires, and then unretires after next season and ends up back with the Packers (don't know what's going to happen to Aaron Rodgers yet, I haven't figured that part out) DA will flourish in Minnesota and become a very solid QB. It honestly wouldn't surprise me if that all happened.
The point is though, that it probably was for the best that DA not return, as much as I like him. Like I said, he probably needs the change of scenery. It doesn't help that he got cheered for being injured here at one point (some fans are just brutal), and I'm afraid he just doesn't work in the system being built. This doesn't mean I'm on the Brady Quinn bandwagon though. I feel like Kevin Kolb is our guy, we just have to find a way to get him out of Philly first.
Anyway, I'll miss you DA. Best wishes.
The point is though, that it probably was for the best that DA not return, as much as I like him. Like I said, he probably needs the change of scenery. It doesn't help that he got cheered for being injured here at one point (some fans are just brutal), and I'm afraid he just doesn't work in the system being built. This doesn't mean I'm on the Brady Quinn bandwagon though. I feel like Kevin Kolb is our guy, we just have to find a way to get him out of Philly first.
Anyway, I'll miss you DA. Best wishes.
March 9, 2010
Auto Show Photos References
Just some car photos to references I made in my past auto show post (see below). Upon further review. Some photos get cut off by my blog page limitations. To see full photos in their entirety, just click on them.
The Chevy Camaro. Stylish, inexpensive and powerful.
The Cobalt. Compact, yet pleasant and effective.
The Chevy Volt concept. The latest in new technology.
The Buick Lucerne. A smaller Buick with all the style of the classic big ones.
The Buick LaCrosse. More classic Buick, this photo seems to be a base model, but you get the gist.
The Hyundai Genesis. A stylish yet strong, pleasant surprise.
The Hyundai Sonata. Clean, sleek, and a worthy opponent.
One website... theautochannel.com, uses the same photo for the Honda Accord for 2006-2010. Just shows the kind of change the car has had.
Chrysler Town & Country. Ugly box, perfect for old people who want an SUV.
Quirky, ugly Chrysler PT Cruiser. But its the best bet with the PT because the normal ones haven't changed at all.
Chrysler 300. A poor man's Bentley. But that's still saying much. But...
Hardly and differnce between that and this concept, this is only a little fancier.
The Dodge Challenger. Don't like the paint scheme. Find the Camaro superior.
The Dodge Caliber. Kinda ugly. Wannabe crossover.
The Dodge Avenger. Kinda generic. Wannabe generic Asian car.
My winner the Camaro, as is the Chrysler 300. Rounding out my top 3, and this photo gallery is the Ford Taurus.
Y'all be good.
- Hype
The Chevy Camaro. Stylish, inexpensive and powerful.
The Cobalt. Compact, yet pleasant and effective.
The Chevy Volt concept. The latest in new technology.
The Buick Lucerne. A smaller Buick with all the style of the classic big ones.
The Buick LaCrosse. More classic Buick, this photo seems to be a base model, but you get the gist.
The Hyundai Genesis. A stylish yet strong, pleasant surprise.
The Hyundai Sonata. Clean, sleek, and a worthy opponent.
One website... theautochannel.com, uses the same photo for the Honda Accord for 2006-2010. Just shows the kind of change the car has had.
Chrysler Town & Country. Ugly box, perfect for old people who want an SUV.
Quirky, ugly Chrysler PT Cruiser. But its the best bet with the PT because the normal ones haven't changed at all.
Chrysler 300. A poor man's Bentley. But that's still saying much. But...
Hardly and differnce between that and this concept, this is only a little fancier.
The Dodge Challenger. Don't like the paint scheme. Find the Camaro superior.
The Dodge Caliber. Kinda ugly. Wannabe crossover.
The Dodge Avenger. Kinda generic. Wannabe generic Asian car.
My winner the Camaro, as is the Chrysler 300. Rounding out my top 3, and this photo gallery is the Ford Taurus.
Y'all be good.
- Hype
Two Relevant Hip-Hop Premieres
I think its fair to say, with my past complainings about being shirked at the Grammy Awards, and recognition of an artist like Kid Cudi, that I'm very much an enthusiast when it comes to the hip-hop music. Well, the last few days have brought a couple of very important and noteworthy premieres to the music world, at least in my opinion. They are, the "Drop the World" music video from Lil Wayne and Eminem and TI's return to the music industry after incarceration, the appropriately named, "I'm Back". Below are videos of the two premieres, and a little blurb with my thoughts.
"I'm Back" isn't TI's best work. The good news is, that it doesn't have to be. He's on some pretty good stuff though, and I'm really looking forward to his more large scale return. He doesn't disappoint here, he just doesn't blow me away, like he did on most of Paper Trail. This sounds more like Trap Muzik TI, which is about when he music made a turn into being of very solid quality and progressively got better. I can't wait for more, but feel like the chorus here just summarizes the point.
First of all, there's a good chance this video will get pulled off. Its currently a leak, and not supposed to be released until Friday. However, I have it up, and only because I think its really cool. I love the concept of the video, the chaos and whatnot is interesting. Wayne and Em are raging and its apparent in the people of the video. They are the masterminds, the overseers of this rage and craziness, much like their music creates opinions and actions in the people that enjoy it ("music can alter moods and talk to you" -Eminem in "Sing for the Moment"). They are great influencers. It helps that I think the song is dope. Its literally the only Lil Wayne song I really like (not a fan), but he actually brings it well here. I think Em (huge fan) definitely brought the best out in him. Regardless, both of their presences are huge and its worked out well as the share the face time. Great song, really cool video, I like it, and will probably watch it over and over again.
Last but not least, I'll keep an ear out for any news on any more TI music or Eminem music, especially for that Relapse II coming from Eminem.
"I'm Back" isn't TI's best work. The good news is, that it doesn't have to be. He's on some pretty good stuff though, and I'm really looking forward to his more large scale return. He doesn't disappoint here, he just doesn't blow me away, like he did on most of Paper Trail. This sounds more like Trap Muzik TI, which is about when he music made a turn into being of very solid quality and progressively got better. I can't wait for more, but feel like the chorus here just summarizes the point.
First of all, there's a good chance this video will get pulled off. Its currently a leak, and not supposed to be released until Friday. However, I have it up, and only because I think its really cool. I love the concept of the video, the chaos and whatnot is interesting. Wayne and Em are raging and its apparent in the people of the video. They are the masterminds, the overseers of this rage and craziness, much like their music creates opinions and actions in the people that enjoy it ("music can alter moods and talk to you" -Eminem in "Sing for the Moment"). They are great influencers. It helps that I think the song is dope. Its literally the only Lil Wayne song I really like (not a fan), but he actually brings it well here. I think Em (huge fan) definitely brought the best out in him. Regardless, both of their presences are huge and its worked out well as the share the face time. Great song, really cool video, I like it, and will probably watch it over and over again.
Last but not least, I'll keep an ear out for any news on any more TI music or Eminem music, especially for that Relapse II coming from Eminem.
March 8, 2010
Cleveland Auto Show Reaction
Today was the last day of the Cleveland International Auto Show, where all the major automobile companies brought their products to the show room floor of Cleveland's IX center. As a little bit of an automobile enthusiast (hardly as much as my dad though), it was pretty much a no-brainer to go, and it was quite an enjoyable show. Basically, every thinkable make of automobile was in the building, and all of the models were there, as were potential future cars, or as they call them, "concept cars". It was quite a show, and quite worth the $12 admission cost to go walking around, looking, and sitting in any automobile that one would like, granted, my dad and I went in the late afternoon, before dinner, so the crowds weren't too large. We basically got to maneuver and walk as we wished. With all this in mind, I'd like to share some thoughts on the specifics of the show. And to get started, I think I need to share some of my automotive biases. For one, I am a stringent supporter of the American automobile. It is typically my personal opinion that the American car tends to be the most stylish yet durable piece of automotive machinery one can buy. This is a broad generalization I make, but the point is my personal preference resides in American cars. With this in mind, it basically means, most of my time at the show was essentially focused on the American automotive companies, I did look over most of the Asian cars as well. However, I basically passed on the European imports. My reasoning as to why is that it is my opinion the European imports, are expensive for one, and this diminishes the appeal of them, especially when most of them are only expensive because the ARE imports. Secondly, their style tends to not change very often. For instance, my friend's BMW from the 80s hardly looks any different than some of the BMWs you see now. Stylistically, their variety lacks, and I'm a very stylistically motivated automotive mind. One other bias I have to mention is an affinity for liking cars, not trucks or SUVs. I feel like the latter lack a certain offering of style and economic friendliness in how they burn gas. With this said, I'd like to talk about some of the things I liked, and didn't like that were presented at the show.
I felt the biggest winner at the show as far as showing a good body of cars and impressing in what they have was General Motors. They may have met bankruptcy in recent times, but they are innovating and improving and clearly trying to turn themselves around. I was particularly impressed with Chevrolet, they've put out a very nice fleet of cars. I was especially pleasantly surprised with their Camaro, which is incredibly stylish for more of a performance vehicle, and just as economically friendly. Its actually less expensive than the new-look Ford Taurus, which should be a step down. For being a little puddle jumper, the Cobalt is still nice, I'd definitely take it over the Ford Focus (sorry to pick on Ford here). The Malibu has been considered one of the most underrated cars in America for a while now too. Their Chevy Volt electric car is a very intriguing concept as well, and they had a model chassis on the scene. The only misstep in their fleet in my opinion is the HHR SUV, which should have been discontinued years ago. Its an odd crossover type vehicle that I just find ugly and deplorable. Other GMs that impressed were Buicks mostly. The Lucerne is a nice car, as is the larger LaCrosse, which I've liked for years. It competes very admirably against Chrysler's 300.
Another, foreign automotive company caught my eye as well. And I need to apologize because I've given them a lot of flack over the years. They are Hyundai. Hyundai's put together some very impressive, yet purchasable cars. The first that come to mind are the Sonata and the Genesis. I was entirely surprised with the Genesis, its style is very nice and its performance is more than one would expect. Looks are deceiving here and I like this car. The Sonata is sleek and equally impressive, it kind of reminds me of some of the Buicks, but with some different accents to the body and interior. Their SUVs are some of the most bearable in my opinion too. They aren't overblown, and they tend to be efficient and reasonably stylish. My beef with Hyundai, if there is one, is how generic some of their compacts come off as. The Accent and Azera come off as very generic and boring to me, basically like most automobiles in the mid 90s. If Hyundai could apply some of their creativity to these vehicles they'd be in great shape.
Now for things I didn't like. For one, I wasn't impressed with essentially ANY of the other foreign makes. I've made my opinion clear on the Euros already. As for the other Asian type cars, the Hondas come off as generic, boring, and lacking any creativity or change over the past 5 years. Look at a 2005 Accord, then look at a 2010 Accord, its basically the exact same thing. I was kind of afraid I'd get run over my a Toyota too. But in all seriousness, I wasn't wholly impressed with them either. They weren't terrible, but nothing that astounded me either. My biggest gripe though was the lack of change from a base model to the more luxurious Asian models. I don't see anything that different in a Lexus or an Acura. The frames and interiors appear essentially the same, just color schemed a little differently, and perhaps a little more chromed up or better fabric, but nothing all that substantial.
My other disappointment comes from the Mopar realm (Chrysler/Dodge). I've been a pretty ardent Mopar supporter in recent history, but I was essentially disappointed. Chrysler was showcasing their Town & Country SUV, which in my opinion is worthless. Its the largest, boxiest, most generic, gas-guzzling gross thing they have in their product line, but that was their showcase. In fact, the best part of said showcase, was that the (relatively) young woman upon the stage talking about the Town & Country was BAD (in the good way). In my opinion the novelty of the PT Cruiser has worn off, and some of the things they are trying to do to make it fresh are just kind of bizarre. What really should have been the showcase was the 300, easily Chrysler's best car. Its beautiful, sleek and stylish, a favorite of mine, essentially the middle-class man's Bentley. Unfortunately, they put some extra chrome and rims on it and had it also as their concept car. Good to know that's the extent of Chrysler's R & D Department. As for Dodge, I held them in pretty high regard coming into my visit, now, not so much. The Dodge Charger was a favorite of mine, until I found its interior is essentially the now extinct Dodge Magnum's interior from 4 years ago. The Challenger just disappoints me, it is easily steps behind the Camaro and Ford's Mustang, especially in style, even if it does harken back to the old school Challengers of the late 60s. Furthermore, the Caliber and Avenger look too similar to me, and kind of fall into the Honda tendency of being generic.
I guess I'll end this with some final thoughts... or something. I realize I've thrown a lot of names out there and stuff. Tomorrow morning I think I might throw up a post with some pictures of the mentioned vehicles, just to give a better visual to those that would like to know better. This was really just my personal thoughts and experience with the products at this year's auto show. I'll conclude by giving my top 3 favorite cars that I saw presented. I'd love to hear and comments or responses anyone may have in return for what I've said. Feel free to get at me.
Top 3:
3. Ford Taurus (starts at $25,000)
2. Chrysler 300 (starts at $28,000)
1. Chevrolet Camaro (starts at $23,000)
honorable mention: Hyundai Genesis (starts at $33,000)
- Hype
I felt the biggest winner at the show as far as showing a good body of cars and impressing in what they have was General Motors. They may have met bankruptcy in recent times, but they are innovating and improving and clearly trying to turn themselves around. I was particularly impressed with Chevrolet, they've put out a very nice fleet of cars. I was especially pleasantly surprised with their Camaro, which is incredibly stylish for more of a performance vehicle, and just as economically friendly. Its actually less expensive than the new-look Ford Taurus, which should be a step down. For being a little puddle jumper, the Cobalt is still nice, I'd definitely take it over the Ford Focus (sorry to pick on Ford here). The Malibu has been considered one of the most underrated cars in America for a while now too. Their Chevy Volt electric car is a very intriguing concept as well, and they had a model chassis on the scene. The only misstep in their fleet in my opinion is the HHR SUV, which should have been discontinued years ago. Its an odd crossover type vehicle that I just find ugly and deplorable. Other GMs that impressed were Buicks mostly. The Lucerne is a nice car, as is the larger LaCrosse, which I've liked for years. It competes very admirably against Chrysler's 300.
Another, foreign automotive company caught my eye as well. And I need to apologize because I've given them a lot of flack over the years. They are Hyundai. Hyundai's put together some very impressive, yet purchasable cars. The first that come to mind are the Sonata and the Genesis. I was entirely surprised with the Genesis, its style is very nice and its performance is more than one would expect. Looks are deceiving here and I like this car. The Sonata is sleek and equally impressive, it kind of reminds me of some of the Buicks, but with some different accents to the body and interior. Their SUVs are some of the most bearable in my opinion too. They aren't overblown, and they tend to be efficient and reasonably stylish. My beef with Hyundai, if there is one, is how generic some of their compacts come off as. The Accent and Azera come off as very generic and boring to me, basically like most automobiles in the mid 90s. If Hyundai could apply some of their creativity to these vehicles they'd be in great shape.
Now for things I didn't like. For one, I wasn't impressed with essentially ANY of the other foreign makes. I've made my opinion clear on the Euros already. As for the other Asian type cars, the Hondas come off as generic, boring, and lacking any creativity or change over the past 5 years. Look at a 2005 Accord, then look at a 2010 Accord, its basically the exact same thing. I was kind of afraid I'd get run over my a Toyota too. But in all seriousness, I wasn't wholly impressed with them either. They weren't terrible, but nothing that astounded me either. My biggest gripe though was the lack of change from a base model to the more luxurious Asian models. I don't see anything that different in a Lexus or an Acura. The frames and interiors appear essentially the same, just color schemed a little differently, and perhaps a little more chromed up or better fabric, but nothing all that substantial.
My other disappointment comes from the Mopar realm (Chrysler/Dodge). I've been a pretty ardent Mopar supporter in recent history, but I was essentially disappointed. Chrysler was showcasing their Town & Country SUV, which in my opinion is worthless. Its the largest, boxiest, most generic, gas-guzzling gross thing they have in their product line, but that was their showcase. In fact, the best part of said showcase, was that the (relatively) young woman upon the stage talking about the Town & Country was BAD (in the good way). In my opinion the novelty of the PT Cruiser has worn off, and some of the things they are trying to do to make it fresh are just kind of bizarre. What really should have been the showcase was the 300, easily Chrysler's best car. Its beautiful, sleek and stylish, a favorite of mine, essentially the middle-class man's Bentley. Unfortunately, they put some extra chrome and rims on it and had it also as their concept car. Good to know that's the extent of Chrysler's R & D Department. As for Dodge, I held them in pretty high regard coming into my visit, now, not so much. The Dodge Charger was a favorite of mine, until I found its interior is essentially the now extinct Dodge Magnum's interior from 4 years ago. The Challenger just disappoints me, it is easily steps behind the Camaro and Ford's Mustang, especially in style, even if it does harken back to the old school Challengers of the late 60s. Furthermore, the Caliber and Avenger look too similar to me, and kind of fall into the Honda tendency of being generic.
I guess I'll end this with some final thoughts... or something. I realize I've thrown a lot of names out there and stuff. Tomorrow morning I think I might throw up a post with some pictures of the mentioned vehicles, just to give a better visual to those that would like to know better. This was really just my personal thoughts and experience with the products at this year's auto show. I'll conclude by giving my top 3 favorite cars that I saw presented. I'd love to hear and comments or responses anyone may have in return for what I've said. Feel free to get at me.
Top 3:
3. Ford Taurus (starts at $25,000)
2. Chrysler 300 (starts at $28,000)
1. Chevrolet Camaro (starts at $23,000)
honorable mention: Hyundai Genesis (starts at $33,000)
- Hype
March 7, 2010
Spring Break '10
It began today, well, really last night, but regardless... the point is, Spring Break has commenced. I'm quite happy about this, its been a very trying eight weeks. I have had family issues, lots of classwork, volunteering and observation for my major, and other things going on as well. I'm definitely looking forward to the coming week and the little break at least from the school section of life. As far as excitement though, this spring break probably won't have it, but that is just okay with me. I'm not traveling anywhere for the next week, just bumming around at home. Nor am I going to see a lot of old friends either probably. Some have break on different weeks. Some are staying at their schools they live at for their break. Some are going on trips. Once again, this is all okay. I'm a very low key, laid-back type person usually. I don't need a lot of in-the-face excitement or intensity to keep me interested. A nice, calm, pleasant week at home is just fine with me, even if I do commute to school and this scenario creates very little variety for me. So I'm doing my best to look at things the best way possible. I do definitely plan on enjoying myself as best as I can in the next week plus. Also, the extra time I'm allotted could potentially mean spending more time hearing typing away to you fine people. Its a definite possibility and leads to a chance for a plethora of coming posts. But lastly, and most importantly, anyone else out there taking a vacation, or having spring break, now or in the near future, I wish you a pleasant and safe time. Y'all be good.
March 6, 2010
The Reason I Didn't Post Last Night
Fantasy Basketball Trade Deadline Edition...
Well, really there were a couple of reasons. Both of them will be talked about eventually here at this site. They are the fact I was at the Cleveland Auto Show yesterday, and also the fact I was deep in negotiations on some fantasy basketball trades during what would usually be my posting time. There will be time for talking about the auto show later, preferably when its not so late at night and my brain wants to function more properly. For now, you'll have to just settle for hearing about how I am a master negotiator. NBA fans, be prepared. Per game stats will be provided in parenthesis in order to provide reference throughout the post.
First, I set the backdrop. Yesterday was the last day in my fantasy basketball league, for the season, for trades to be agreed upon. At 12 AM Friday morning, the deadline passed and trades became void. I'm currently in 6th place, out of 10. 6 teams conveniently get into the playoffs and there are less than 3 weeks left in the regular season, and I'm looking to solidify myself as a worthy opponent in the playoffs, let alone make the playoffs. I needed something to stem the tide, I had been as high as 2nd place at one point this season, but hadn't distanced myself well from the other teams in the standings and eventually my team fell back to reality.
The pressure is on to get my changes right. So I looked at my team needs. I have one stark, glaring need that needed to be addressed in stat categories. That statistical category was assists. You see, my team shot itself in the foot, almost literally. I drafted Gilbert Arenas (32 games) as my premiere point guard in the 4th round of our draft, and didn't bother with many PGs outside of him. I did have Mario Chalmers (7.4 PPG 3.5 APG 1.2 SPG), but that didn't work out so well. When Arenas got charged, and later plead guilty to gun charges, I was put into an awfully precarious position of trying to achieve the assist stat. This was one of my goals in trading. Another goal was to add rebounds, something else I struggled with, all though not as easily explained why. Finally, I wanted to add to my theme. My team is a notorious 3 point shooting, highly skilled, athletic team. I wanted to add to that style of play with any changes. I feel I accomplished all 3 of these goals at some rate.
So my goals were set, but how to accomplish them. I was in contact with other teams the whole week really, trying to work on deals, find where interest was, who would be willing to give up who and for what. My main piece I was trying to shop around for talent was Ray Allen (16.3 PPG 2.7 APG 1.7 3PG). He's a really good player, but most of his best stats were in stats I'm really good at, with or without him, so he was expendable. I was specifically shopping him around for a PG, but to no avail. At one point I didn't think I would get any deals done at all. It was deadline night, all my offers had been declined, most of my interest was in Andre Miller (13.5 PPG 5.5 APG 1 SPG) or Jarrett Jack (11.1 PPG 4.9 APG 1 3PG). Little did I know I was about to fall into something much better. I logged onto facebook to see if any fellow team owners were on (my friends), and I really happened to luck out. In the following hour and a half, 4 team owners appeared on facebook, and I talked to every one of them about deals.
In the end, what I felt like was a marque deal for me was something I hadn't seen coming at all. I hadn't talked trade with the guy in months, but he happened to be on, and I thought I would inquire about his PGs. Jonny Flynn (13.7 PPG 2.5 RPG 4.4 APG) was first, but he wanted Danilo Gallinari (13.8 PPG 5.1 RGP 1.6 APG) in return, a little high of a price for me, Gallinari has had a breakout season for the Knicks, he shoots and rebounds the ball very well. I moved my thoughts to potential rookie of the year, Stephen Curry (15.6 PPG 4.2 RPG 5.3 APG). I was incredibly surprised to find the owner was willing to deal him, either for Gallinari or Allen. Since Allen was the guy I felt I could lose, I sent him away, straight up, for Curry. I like Curry a lot. He can score, shoot the 3, create assists, and even get some steals. He has a turnover problem, but my team doesn't do that a lot so I can afford it, and his 3s and assists were major points of interest.
With this deal done, I proceeded with other potential deals. I felt 1 wasn't enough, 2 would be just fine though. I talked to someone about Luis Scola (14.7 PPG 8.5 RPG 1.9 APG), but they wanted way too much for him. He also wanted too much for Kevin Martin 20.3 PPG 1.7 3PG 26 games), who is way too injury prone to put too much stake into anyway. So I had to say thanks but no thanks. I wasn't willing to give Marc Gasol (14.9 PPG 9.4 RPG 1.6 BPG) for Luis Scola, there's just no way with the incredible breakout numbers Gasol has put up for me this year.
Speaking about Gasols, I also talked to an owner about Pau (17.1 PPG 11.1 RPG 3.4 APG). He is a topic we had visited earlier in the season. I had this crazy notion at one point that I wanted to trade Marc for Pau, and looking back at it, I'm glad the other owner refused, I feel like I got the better half of that. I offered Stephen Jackson (20.8 PPG 5 RPG 3.9 APG) for Pau, but he still wouldn't budge. I could get him for Gerald Wallace (18.5 PPG 10.5 RPG 2.1 APG), but that was the only way, and I was hardly willing to do it. You could argue Wallace has been MVP-esque this year, he's probably my second best player behind Dirk Nowitzki (25.2 PPG 7.7 RPG 2.6 APG). It was apparent that my search for more rebounds wouldn't come easily. I had sent my best offers for both Luis Scola and Pau Gasol, and been met with nothing but a dead end. Derrick Rose (20.3 PPG 5.6 APG) was another talking point with this owner, but he made it painfully apparent he wasn't willing to deal him easily either, and I don't blame the guy. There's a reason why he's currently in first place.
I got lucky though. Another team owner just happened to log on, and he had control of another player the two of us had just happened to have been talking about for a while. That player was Jamal Crawford (17.3 PPG 2.9 APG 1.9 3PG). I've liked Crawford all season, he's been a great sixth man all season for the Hawks. He's a great scorer and shooter, and at times passes the ball well and creates assists (albeit inconsistently). This owner didn't have many rebounders I liked so I settled for a few more and even more solid outside shooting in Mehmet Okur (12.5 PPG 6.8 RPG 1.1 BPG). I've had Okur before, and like his game. Those were the guys I wanted. At first, I was afraid I was going to have to give Marc Gasol, he was a major talking point of past talks about Crawford, he didn't really come up though. Stephen Jackson did, however, and I made it painfully obvious he wouldn't be an option in all of this. Maybe if I was getting a Pau Gasol caliber (really, either Gasol caliber) of rebounder I'd give Jackson, otherwise, he was staying put. Al Jefferson (17.1 PPG 9.3 RPG 49.1 FG%) was movable though. I have Gasol, and Paul Millsap (11.4 PPG 6.2 RPG 56.7 FG%), and Rasheed Wallace (9.8 PPG 4.1 RPG 1.2 APG), and others, lots of talented big men, I could afford to expend Jefferson in order to bring in Crawford and Okur, but I still needed to sweeten the deal a little. And admittedly, I almost got a steal. I almost only also had to deal Derek Fisher (7.5 PPG 2.5 APG 1.1 SPG) and JJ Redick (9.4 PPG 1.8 APG 1.4 3PG), 2 capable, but awfully mediocre PGs that would be blown away in talent by Crawford. I felt like their combined talents were enough to eqaute a fair deal, but my counterpart didn't see it that way. He wanted Beno Udrih (12.1 PPG 3.7 APG 1 3PG) (after another attempt at Steve Jack). I was willing to give Udrih, he was essentially a poor man's Crawford to me, except less of a shooter. I asked for Wesley Matthews (8.4 PPG 2 RPG 1.2 APG) also, just to add to the little bit of assist boost I could get, trading Udrih made Crawford's extra assists kind of irrelevant, so I needed to add a little. With that, we both agreed and the deal was done. An hour and a half later my goals were accomplished. I got my assists in Curry, Crawford and Matthews (but mostly Curry). I get rebounds from Okur, and they are more versatile rebounds than the solely low post scoring I would get from Jefferson. Finally, I added a lot of athleticism and 3 ability, with Crawford, Curry, and Okur. In this aspect, I think I flourished the best.
Just to conclude, my team is going from:
G JJ Redick
SF Stephen Jackson
G Beno Udrih
F Gerald Wallace
C Rasheed Wallace
PF Dirk Nowitzki
C Marc Gasol
C Matt Bonner
SG Ray Allen
SF Danilo Gallinari
PG Derek Fisher
F Paul Millsap
C Al Jefferson
SF Shane Battier
SF Ronnie Brewer
and now will be:
G JJ Redick
SF Stephen Jackson
G Stephen Curry
F Gerald Wallace
C Rasheed Wallace
PF Dirk Nowitzki
C Marc Gasol
G Wesley Matthews
C Mehmet Okur
SF Danilo Gallinari
PG Derek Fisher
F Paul Millsap
G Jamal Crawford
SF Shane Battier
SF Ronnie Brewer
basketball and fantasy enthusiasts, let me know what you think.
-Hype
Well, really there were a couple of reasons. Both of them will be talked about eventually here at this site. They are the fact I was at the Cleveland Auto Show yesterday, and also the fact I was deep in negotiations on some fantasy basketball trades during what would usually be my posting time. There will be time for talking about the auto show later, preferably when its not so late at night and my brain wants to function more properly. For now, you'll have to just settle for hearing about how I am a master negotiator. NBA fans, be prepared. Per game stats will be provided in parenthesis in order to provide reference throughout the post.
First, I set the backdrop. Yesterday was the last day in my fantasy basketball league, for the season, for trades to be agreed upon. At 12 AM Friday morning, the deadline passed and trades became void. I'm currently in 6th place, out of 10. 6 teams conveniently get into the playoffs and there are less than 3 weeks left in the regular season, and I'm looking to solidify myself as a worthy opponent in the playoffs, let alone make the playoffs. I needed something to stem the tide, I had been as high as 2nd place at one point this season, but hadn't distanced myself well from the other teams in the standings and eventually my team fell back to reality.
The pressure is on to get my changes right. So I looked at my team needs. I have one stark, glaring need that needed to be addressed in stat categories. That statistical category was assists. You see, my team shot itself in the foot, almost literally. I drafted Gilbert Arenas (32 games) as my premiere point guard in the 4th round of our draft, and didn't bother with many PGs outside of him. I did have Mario Chalmers (7.4 PPG 3.5 APG 1.2 SPG), but that didn't work out so well. When Arenas got charged, and later plead guilty to gun charges, I was put into an awfully precarious position of trying to achieve the assist stat. This was one of my goals in trading. Another goal was to add rebounds, something else I struggled with, all though not as easily explained why. Finally, I wanted to add to my theme. My team is a notorious 3 point shooting, highly skilled, athletic team. I wanted to add to that style of play with any changes. I feel I accomplished all 3 of these goals at some rate.
So my goals were set, but how to accomplish them. I was in contact with other teams the whole week really, trying to work on deals, find where interest was, who would be willing to give up who and for what. My main piece I was trying to shop around for talent was Ray Allen (16.3 PPG 2.7 APG 1.7 3PG). He's a really good player, but most of his best stats were in stats I'm really good at, with or without him, so he was expendable. I was specifically shopping him around for a PG, but to no avail. At one point I didn't think I would get any deals done at all. It was deadline night, all my offers had been declined, most of my interest was in Andre Miller (13.5 PPG 5.5 APG 1 SPG) or Jarrett Jack (11.1 PPG 4.9 APG 1 3PG). Little did I know I was about to fall into something much better. I logged onto facebook to see if any fellow team owners were on (my friends), and I really happened to luck out. In the following hour and a half, 4 team owners appeared on facebook, and I talked to every one of them about deals.
In the end, what I felt like was a marque deal for me was something I hadn't seen coming at all. I hadn't talked trade with the guy in months, but he happened to be on, and I thought I would inquire about his PGs. Jonny Flynn (13.7 PPG 2.5 RPG 4.4 APG) was first, but he wanted Danilo Gallinari (13.8 PPG 5.1 RGP 1.6 APG) in return, a little high of a price for me, Gallinari has had a breakout season for the Knicks, he shoots and rebounds the ball very well. I moved my thoughts to potential rookie of the year, Stephen Curry (15.6 PPG 4.2 RPG 5.3 APG). I was incredibly surprised to find the owner was willing to deal him, either for Gallinari or Allen. Since Allen was the guy I felt I could lose, I sent him away, straight up, for Curry. I like Curry a lot. He can score, shoot the 3, create assists, and even get some steals. He has a turnover problem, but my team doesn't do that a lot so I can afford it, and his 3s and assists were major points of interest.
With this deal done, I proceeded with other potential deals. I felt 1 wasn't enough, 2 would be just fine though. I talked to someone about Luis Scola (14.7 PPG 8.5 RPG 1.9 APG), but they wanted way too much for him. He also wanted too much for Kevin Martin 20.3 PPG 1.7 3PG 26 games), who is way too injury prone to put too much stake into anyway. So I had to say thanks but no thanks. I wasn't willing to give Marc Gasol (14.9 PPG 9.4 RPG 1.6 BPG) for Luis Scola, there's just no way with the incredible breakout numbers Gasol has put up for me this year.
Speaking about Gasols, I also talked to an owner about Pau (17.1 PPG 11.1 RPG 3.4 APG). He is a topic we had visited earlier in the season. I had this crazy notion at one point that I wanted to trade Marc for Pau, and looking back at it, I'm glad the other owner refused, I feel like I got the better half of that. I offered Stephen Jackson (20.8 PPG 5 RPG 3.9 APG) for Pau, but he still wouldn't budge. I could get him for Gerald Wallace (18.5 PPG 10.5 RPG 2.1 APG), but that was the only way, and I was hardly willing to do it. You could argue Wallace has been MVP-esque this year, he's probably my second best player behind Dirk Nowitzki (25.2 PPG 7.7 RPG 2.6 APG). It was apparent that my search for more rebounds wouldn't come easily. I had sent my best offers for both Luis Scola and Pau Gasol, and been met with nothing but a dead end. Derrick Rose (20.3 PPG 5.6 APG) was another talking point with this owner, but he made it painfully apparent he wasn't willing to deal him easily either, and I don't blame the guy. There's a reason why he's currently in first place.
I got lucky though. Another team owner just happened to log on, and he had control of another player the two of us had just happened to have been talking about for a while. That player was Jamal Crawford (17.3 PPG 2.9 APG 1.9 3PG). I've liked Crawford all season, he's been a great sixth man all season for the Hawks. He's a great scorer and shooter, and at times passes the ball well and creates assists (albeit inconsistently). This owner didn't have many rebounders I liked so I settled for a few more and even more solid outside shooting in Mehmet Okur (12.5 PPG 6.8 RPG 1.1 BPG). I've had Okur before, and like his game. Those were the guys I wanted. At first, I was afraid I was going to have to give Marc Gasol, he was a major talking point of past talks about Crawford, he didn't really come up though. Stephen Jackson did, however, and I made it painfully obvious he wouldn't be an option in all of this. Maybe if I was getting a Pau Gasol caliber (really, either Gasol caliber) of rebounder I'd give Jackson, otherwise, he was staying put. Al Jefferson (17.1 PPG 9.3 RPG 49.1 FG%) was movable though. I have Gasol, and Paul Millsap (11.4 PPG 6.2 RPG 56.7 FG%), and Rasheed Wallace (9.8 PPG 4.1 RPG 1.2 APG), and others, lots of talented big men, I could afford to expend Jefferson in order to bring in Crawford and Okur, but I still needed to sweeten the deal a little. And admittedly, I almost got a steal. I almost only also had to deal Derek Fisher (7.5 PPG 2.5 APG 1.1 SPG) and JJ Redick (9.4 PPG 1.8 APG 1.4 3PG), 2 capable, but awfully mediocre PGs that would be blown away in talent by Crawford. I felt like their combined talents were enough to eqaute a fair deal, but my counterpart didn't see it that way. He wanted Beno Udrih (12.1 PPG 3.7 APG 1 3PG) (after another attempt at Steve Jack). I was willing to give Udrih, he was essentially a poor man's Crawford to me, except less of a shooter. I asked for Wesley Matthews (8.4 PPG 2 RPG 1.2 APG) also, just to add to the little bit of assist boost I could get, trading Udrih made Crawford's extra assists kind of irrelevant, so I needed to add a little. With that, we both agreed and the deal was done. An hour and a half later my goals were accomplished. I got my assists in Curry, Crawford and Matthews (but mostly Curry). I get rebounds from Okur, and they are more versatile rebounds than the solely low post scoring I would get from Jefferson. Finally, I added a lot of athleticism and 3 ability, with Crawford, Curry, and Okur. In this aspect, I think I flourished the best.
Just to conclude, my team is going from:
G JJ Redick
SF Stephen Jackson
G Beno Udrih
F Gerald Wallace
C Rasheed Wallace
PF Dirk Nowitzki
C Marc Gasol
C Matt Bonner
SG Ray Allen
SF Danilo Gallinari
PG Derek Fisher
F Paul Millsap
C Al Jefferson
SF Shane Battier
SF Ronnie Brewer
and now will be:
G JJ Redick
SF Stephen Jackson
G Stephen Curry
F Gerald Wallace
C Rasheed Wallace
PF Dirk Nowitzki
C Marc Gasol
G Wesley Matthews
C Mehmet Okur
SF Danilo Gallinari
PG Derek Fisher
F Paul Millsap
G Jamal Crawford
SF Shane Battier
SF Ronnie Brewer
basketball and fantasy enthusiasts, let me know what you think.
-Hype
March 3, 2010
Why All the Hate?
I'm sick and tired of people hating on my city and the area around it. During the news today, they did a story on a video making the rounds on youtube, with a song corresponding to it that was played on local radio, 100.7 WMMS, to be exact. The video? A song, a parody, "Parma State of Mind". The idea? Disrespect the city of Parma, Ohio, a decent suburb of Cleveland, that never hurt anybody. Half of the negative stuff they mention about Parma, doesn't even exist in Parma, it just comes off as ignorant. It all just makes me flashback to the Cleveland Tourism videos on youtube, another rude and distasteful expression of what Cleveland is, but to a much stronger extent.
People will call this stuff funny, they'll say I need to lighten up, that a video like this isn't to be taken too seriously. Those people are right to an extent, but it just drives me insane, with all the negative stuff Cleveland's been in the news for lately (most miserable list, bad weather list, Imperial Ave. murders, etc.). You would think Cleveland's own wouldn't shoot themselves in the foot like this either. I admit, it would be completely different in the area was in a better position than it is right now. In that case, jokes are acceptable, but I mean, come on people... we're the laughing stock of the country right now, a country down on its luck, too. Furthermore, WMMS has been a staple of Cleveland radio for years upon years, you would think they would respect their city when it needs it most, when its down. Its not a very classy act from them if you ask me.
Speaking of which, as I watched the video on youtube, I could have sworn I recognized the girl singing what would be the Alicia Keys parts of "Empire State of Mind". Considering I'm from the area, was it somebody I knew? Well, no it wasn't actually. I recognize her because she's on the current season of The Real World on MTV (perhaps a different post for a different day will by why I'm watching The Real World), which is a really odd association to make, but it gets better. Not only does she have no guilty conscience for her participation because she's originally from Chicago, a quick google of her name, Erika Lauren, leads to the discovery of the fact she faked the fact that she had cancer. Really classy people we're talking about here, huh?
Well, I'm just rambling, and its because I'm upset, but I'll end with this. If you're from Cleveland, and you happen to read this, feel free to give your take. Let me know how much you think I am overreacting, or if I really am. If you're not from Cleveland, I implore you to take the time, do the research, find out about our wonderful city (the Rock Hall, the sports teams, the museums, the orchestra, Playhouse Square, the Metroparks, etc.), then if you still want to take heed to jokes about us, do so, but at least then you'll realize they need to be taken with a grain of salt.
-Hype
People will call this stuff funny, they'll say I need to lighten up, that a video like this isn't to be taken too seriously. Those people are right to an extent, but it just drives me insane, with all the negative stuff Cleveland's been in the news for lately (most miserable list, bad weather list, Imperial Ave. murders, etc.). You would think Cleveland's own wouldn't shoot themselves in the foot like this either. I admit, it would be completely different in the area was in a better position than it is right now. In that case, jokes are acceptable, but I mean, come on people... we're the laughing stock of the country right now, a country down on its luck, too. Furthermore, WMMS has been a staple of Cleveland radio for years upon years, you would think they would respect their city when it needs it most, when its down. Its not a very classy act from them if you ask me.
Speaking of which, as I watched the video on youtube, I could have sworn I recognized the girl singing what would be the Alicia Keys parts of "Empire State of Mind". Considering I'm from the area, was it somebody I knew? Well, no it wasn't actually. I recognize her because she's on the current season of The Real World on MTV (perhaps a different post for a different day will by why I'm watching The Real World), which is a really odd association to make, but it gets better. Not only does she have no guilty conscience for her participation because she's originally from Chicago, a quick google of her name, Erika Lauren, leads to the discovery of the fact she faked the fact that she had cancer. Really classy people we're talking about here, huh?
Well, I'm just rambling, and its because I'm upset, but I'll end with this. If you're from Cleveland, and you happen to read this, feel free to give your take. Let me know how much you think I am overreacting, or if I really am. If you're not from Cleveland, I implore you to take the time, do the research, find out about our wonderful city (the Rock Hall, the sports teams, the museums, the orchestra, Playhouse Square, the Metroparks, etc.), then if you still want to take heed to jokes about us, do so, but at least then you'll realize they need to be taken with a grain of salt.
-Hype
Agony of Defeat
As previously mentioned on this blog, the Skins, my team in my college's intramural basketball league, had their first playoff game on Monday night. Unfortunately, it will also be our last of the season. We lost a agonizing defensive struggle, 30-28. We lost by 2 lousy points, after leading most of the game, I think by 9 at the most. Our opponent never had a lead until the final few minutes and was able to stick it out and hold on when it mattered most. Down 2, a last second opportunity on a alley oop/tip pass fell short and the fate was sealed, but admittedly, in a game that saw us score only 28 points, there were plenty of other missed opportunities. It can't all be contributed to the final play.
In the game, I finally ended my 3 game scoreless streak (that spanned the course of weeks). I had 5 points on 2 of 5 shooting, and no other stats really to mention. I end the season with not very impressive numbers, 3 points a game, 1.67 rebounds, and 1 assist per game. Not my best effort, but on a team that probably scored around 40 a game, its understandable. The important thing is, as corny as it sounds, we had some fun along the way, while winning a few games, and being all-around competitive. We went 3-7, but weren't really blown out of any games, so at least we were close and had chances. Its a lot more fun to compete than it is to have no chance and get blown out. So, I'm happy with my experience in that sense. It was a lot of fun though, I really enjoyed playing with the guys I did, and would love to lace them up again next year. We shall see.
In the game, I finally ended my 3 game scoreless streak (that spanned the course of weeks). I had 5 points on 2 of 5 shooting, and no other stats really to mention. I end the season with not very impressive numbers, 3 points a game, 1.67 rebounds, and 1 assist per game. Not my best effort, but on a team that probably scored around 40 a game, its understandable. The important thing is, as corny as it sounds, we had some fun along the way, while winning a few games, and being all-around competitive. We went 3-7, but weren't really blown out of any games, so at least we were close and had chances. Its a lot more fun to compete than it is to have no chance and get blown out. So, I'm happy with my experience in that sense. It was a lot of fun though, I really enjoyed playing with the guys I did, and would love to lace them up again next year. We shall see.
March 1, 2010
Intramural Basketball Playoffs: Its On
I'm posting a little early tonight because in less than 2 hours the Skins of my college's intramural basketball league take their next step towards dominance... the first round of the playoffs. We come into the playoffs as a 6 seed in a 4 bracket, 32 team scenario. We were 3-6 in the regular season, but luckily every team makes the playoffs. We take on a 3 seed tonight in what I've been told is a very winnable game. Hopefully, an upset is on the horizon. I could use a good game. After a 4 game absence, I've been scoreless in my last 3. I've struggled from rust I think and my production is way down from the beginning of the season. Let's hope for a breakout game, shall we. And lets hope for a victory. I think we have a definite chance. We just have to execute on offense and play a full game. We have times where we get into lulls and get lackadaisical. We also struggle on the offensive end at times. We need an all-out effort tonight to compliment our defense. Its plausible. I don't really know much about who we are playing so I can't really say more, otherwise I would. I will be sure to keep y'all posted on how the Skins and I do though. Wish us luck.
-Hype
-Hype
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