It looks a little bit like a comic book cover, but it's cool nonetheless...
History Has Its Eyes On You, Part Deux
10 months ago
Friday, October 29, 2004
Early glimpse of Episode III
Episode III Teaser Poster Revealed
It looks a little bit like a comic book cover, but it's cool nonetheless...
It looks a little bit like a comic book cover, but it's cool nonetheless...
'OK, but I get to be on top!'
Albany Paper Runs Two Front Pages: One Starring Bush, One Starring Kerry
By Jennifer Saba
Published: October 27, 2004 5:50 PM EDT update 8:00 PM
NEW YORK Well, they won't try that again any time soon. "Yes, I wish we hadn't done it," the editor told E&P.
But with so many accusations flying around of media bias, it's no wonder newspaper editors across the country are bending over backward to seem fair and balanced.
Indeed, at the Times Union in Albany, N.Y., editors went so far as to customize its front page on Tuesday, printing two editions of the paper with two different A1s.
Editor Rex Smith said that in Monday's editorial meeting he was presented with two horizontal photos of equal size for Page 1. One photo featured Kerry and Bill Clinton, the other included Bush and Rudolph Giuliani. His dilemma: Who gets the top?
Newspaper editors are only too aware that readers increasingly analyze each front page -- and especially photo selection -- for bias. James G. Wright, assistant managing editor for local news, said that people get most worked up over pictures. "If it's perceived as being just a little bit racy, people call," he explained.
So Smith decided to stage two press runs, swapping the positions of photos halfway through, with Bush on top in one run and Kerry in top placement in another.
"I just felt it was worthwhile to make the extra effort in the interest of fairness. I didn't want readers to perceive any bias in our photo selection," Smith said. "We go through all kinds of machinations to convince our readers that we're fair."
With a circulation of 99,957, the Times Union produces five editions, four county editions and a zoned-advertising edition.
The Kerry-dominant editions, as it happened, went out to the Democratic stronghold of Albany County. Was this by design, with Bush-friendly editions circulating in Republican enclaves? Smith dismissed the conspiracy theory with a laugh: "Now that would be a story!" The Bush/Giuliani version was sent to Schenectady, Saratoga, and Rensselaer Counties.
Smith insisted he did not gerrymander distribution: "It was a convenience thing. It was really an effort to be fair, not to target pro-Bush coverage to Republican counties."
He points out that Schenectady county, which leans Democratic, received the Bush edition: "That theory wouldn't work there."
Readers, apparently, were indifferent. Wright, who also serves as the paper's ombudsman for the month, said he got zero phone calls about the two editions, or the photo placement.
Which raises the thought: If no one complained, and some Bush fans got Kerry-on-top copies, and vice versa, was it worth doing at all?
Apparently Smith now thinks, no. He told E&P late Wednesday that it upset a lot of people in the newsroom, who may not have understood his reasoning. "I'm afraid it's given the impression that we are kowtowing to overly sensitive partisan readers," he said.
Realizing it was a mistake, he now plans to write a memo to staff on Thursday, and possibly a column.
Jennifer Saba (jsaba@editorandpublisher.com) is associate editor at E&P.
By Jennifer Saba
Published: October 27, 2004 5:50 PM EDT update 8:00 PM
NEW YORK Well, they won't try that again any time soon. "Yes, I wish we hadn't done it," the editor told E&P.
But with so many accusations flying around of media bias, it's no wonder newspaper editors across the country are bending over backward to seem fair and balanced.
Indeed, at the Times Union in Albany, N.Y., editors went so far as to customize its front page on Tuesday, printing two editions of the paper with two different A1s.
Editor Rex Smith said that in Monday's editorial meeting he was presented with two horizontal photos of equal size for Page 1. One photo featured Kerry and Bill Clinton, the other included Bush and Rudolph Giuliani. His dilemma: Who gets the top?
Newspaper editors are only too aware that readers increasingly analyze each front page -- and especially photo selection -- for bias. James G. Wright, assistant managing editor for local news, said that people get most worked up over pictures. "If it's perceived as being just a little bit racy, people call," he explained.
So Smith decided to stage two press runs, swapping the positions of photos halfway through, with Bush on top in one run and Kerry in top placement in another.
"I just felt it was worthwhile to make the extra effort in the interest of fairness. I didn't want readers to perceive any bias in our photo selection," Smith said. "We go through all kinds of machinations to convince our readers that we're fair."
With a circulation of 99,957, the Times Union produces five editions, four county editions and a zoned-advertising edition.
The Kerry-dominant editions, as it happened, went out to the Democratic stronghold of Albany County. Was this by design, with Bush-friendly editions circulating in Republican enclaves? Smith dismissed the conspiracy theory with a laugh: "Now that would be a story!" The Bush/Giuliani version was sent to Schenectady, Saratoga, and Rensselaer Counties.
Smith insisted he did not gerrymander distribution: "It was a convenience thing. It was really an effort to be fair, not to target pro-Bush coverage to Republican counties."
He points out that Schenectady county, which leans Democratic, received the Bush edition: "That theory wouldn't work there."
Readers, apparently, were indifferent. Wright, who also serves as the paper's ombudsman for the month, said he got zero phone calls about the two editions, or the photo placement.
Which raises the thought: If no one complained, and some Bush fans got Kerry-on-top copies, and vice versa, was it worth doing at all?
Apparently Smith now thinks, no. He told E&P late Wednesday that it upset a lot of people in the newsroom, who may not have understood his reasoning. "I'm afraid it's given the impression that we are kowtowing to overly sensitive partisan readers," he said.
Realizing it was a mistake, he now plans to write a memo to staff on Thursday, and possibly a column.
Jennifer Saba (jsaba@editorandpublisher.com) is associate editor at E&P.
Adding insult to injury
Bombers at Sox flag day
It turns out, the way the 2005 Major League Baseball schedule works out, the Yankees will be in Boston for the Red Sox home opener. That means the Yanks will have to sit and watch in person as the Sox raise their World Series banner and receive their rings.
It turns out, the way the 2005 Major League Baseball schedule works out, the Yankees will be in Boston for the Red Sox home opener. That means the Yanks will have to sit and watch in person as the Sox raise their World Series banner and receive their rings.
Thursday, October 28, 2004
The Wayback Machine
This is a very cool site. Head over to web.archive.org, type in the address of any site and you will be able to browse old versions of that site going as far back as 1996!
Thanks Mike Sussman
Thanks Mike Sussman
Hell freezing over?
I don't know, everyone. First there's the total lunar eclipse. Then the Red Sox win the World Series. And then there are reports of up to one foot snow in areas near Las Vegas!
I'm keeping an eye out for reports of flying pigs.
I'm keeping an eye out for reports of flying pigs.
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
World Champion Boston Red Sox (Ugh)
Well there you have it. Congratulations Red Sox fans. Your "idiots" dominated the World Series and earned their victory.
I'm shocked the Cardinals didn't put up more of a fight and win at least one game. Could the lunar eclipse/deal with the devil theory be far off (see below)?
I guess the "Boston Red Sox: Wait Till Next Year" picture hanging in my office will have to come down tomorrow.
And F***in' Manny is the MVP! Let's just twist the knife a little more!
So a new era for the Red Sox now begins. Where do Sox fans go from here? They've been defined by failure. The life of the loser is all they've known. Will the Sox repeat anytime soon? Will this put a fire under the Yankees? Will thousands of Boston fans who have been saying, "I just want to see the Sox win before I die," suddenly drop dead? Only time will tell.
But for now, congratulations Red Sox. We'll see you next year.
I'm shocked the Cardinals didn't put up more of a fight and win at least one game. Could the lunar eclipse/deal with the devil theory be far off (see below)?
I guess the "Boston Red Sox: Wait Till Next Year" picture hanging in my office will have to come down tomorrow.
And F***in' Manny is the MVP! Let's just twist the knife a little more!
So a new era for the Red Sox now begins. Where do Sox fans go from here? They've been defined by failure. The life of the loser is all they've known. Will the Sox repeat anytime soon? Will this put a fire under the Yankees? Will thousands of Boston fans who have been saying, "I just want to see the Sox win before I die," suddenly drop dead? Only time will tell.
But for now, congratulations Red Sox. We'll see you next year.
Deal with Devil key to Sox success
Red Sox GM Theo Epstein discusses the trade of his soul for a World Series title.
BOSTON, Oct. 27 – Baseball’s “Boy Wonder” has made some important deals in his brief time with the Boston Red Sox, but this one will go down as one of the game’s biggest.
Sox General Manager Theo Epstein announced recently a one-year deal with Satan to ensure his club its first World Series victory in 86 years.
At age 30, Epstein is the youngest general manager in Major League Baseball. He signed the deal with the Prince of Darkness on Oct. 17, mere hours after the Sox crushing 19-8 defeat at the hands of their arch rivals, the New York Yankees.
The Sox have not lost a game since the deal was struck. That includes two brilliant starts from Boston starting pitcher Curt Schilling, despite a career-threatening injury that hampered him in Game 1 of the ALCS against New York.
“The deal benefited everyone,” Epstein said at a news conference. “It turns out God wears pinstripes and the Devil was anxious for a chance to stick it to the man upstairs.”
The exact terms of the deal have yet to be disclosed, but will most likely include Epstein’s eternal soul and the burning of Boston at the hands of a rabid Red Sox Nation following the team’s victory. It is also believed that the full lunar eclipse on the night the Red Sox broke the Curse of the Bambino is no coincidence.
The unthinkable
Wow. I think this is going to actually happen. With the Boston Red Sox up 3-0, it looks almost certain that the're going to win their first World Series in 86 years.
Don't worry everyone. I've checked myself into anger management therapy just in case.
Meanwhile, I wanted to share this interesting baseball stat from Kieth Olbermann:
Don't worry everyone. I've checked myself into anger management therapy just in case.
Meanwhile, I wanted to share this interesting baseball stat from Kieth Olbermann:
Do you realize that as of Wednesday afternoon, every baseball team that has gone up 3-0 in a best-of-seven playoff series since 2000 has gone on to lose that series?
Just a thought.
A new look at the new 'Who'
Here is a promotional image of the Doctor (Christopher Eccleston) and his new companion, Rose (British pop singer Billie Piper), from the BBC's new "Doctor Who" series:
Friday, October 22, 2004
A class act or an act of treason?
This image is a sight some Yankee fans (and I suspect some Red Sox fans too) don't want to see right now.
Many in New York City are still reeling from the Yankees loss Wednesday night. But a popular restaurant is honoring the conquering foes from Boston.
Mickey Mantle's on Central Park South has temporarily changed its name to "Ted Williams’," honoring the former Boston great.
The New York Post says the sign will stay up through the World Series.
They are even displaying a symbol of an apparent truce: a photo of Williams shaking hands with Babe Ruth.
Wednesday would have been the Mick’s 73rd birthday.
Not everyone is pleased. Apparently they are even selling Red Sox hats inside the restaurant, but one worker said he would quit before he wore one.
Meanwhile, Mickey’s family is less than thrilled with the owner of the restaurant, Bill Liederman.
“Mickey loved Ted and we hold Ted's memory in the highest regard," said Merlyn Mantle, "But Mr. Liederman's conduct is disgraceful and an insult to Mickey's memory and to the Yankees and their fans."
Danny and David Mantle went on to say "We want everyone to know that Bill Liederman did this without the approval or knowledge of our family.”
The picture of the Splendid Splinter and the Sultan of Swat is a nice sentiment. Unfortunately, when most people think of the Yankees and the Red Sox, it instead conjures images like this:
Great news!
Patrick just IMed me. His doctors are going to let him go home tonight!
Today is his 16th birthday.
Apparently, his counts really jumped in the last two days.
Coincidentally (or not) I e-mailed my mother’s cousin -- Father Bill, who lives in Brazil -- two days ago to let him know what was going on. As Patrick and I were IMing, Fr. Bill e-mailed me to let me know he was thinking of Patrick on his birthday, and that they prayed for Patrick at his prayer session this morning and at Mass yesterday.
Just try to tell me prayers don’t help!
Thursday, October 21, 2004
Fenway faithful freak out
Rowdy Sox Fans Rampage In Streets
A Boston Red Sox fan throws a smoke bomb outside of Fenway Park in Boston. Photo by Jessica Rinaldi/Reuters
And they were worried about a riot from fans at Yankee Stadium?!?
The celebration turned deadly outside of Fenway Park. An Emerson College student died this afternoon from injuries suffered last night after she hit in the head by a projectile fired from a bean-bag gun used by police to subdue the crowd.
More than 2,000 UMass Amherst students gathered around a huge bonfire at a campus pond. Twenty-nine people were arrested, not all of them students. Most were charged with disorderly conduct or inciting a riot.
One officer suffered minor injuries while making an arrest.
The fun wasn’t limited to Boston. Rioting also broke out at the University of Vermont. More than 1,000 people set fires, toppled light poles and fences. One van was also flipped on its side.
Although police used rubber pellets to disperse the crowd, no injuries were reported.
A Boston Red Sox fan throws a smoke bomb outside of Fenway Park in Boston. Photo by Jessica Rinaldi/Reuters
And they were worried about a riot from fans at Yankee Stadium?!?
The celebration turned deadly outside of Fenway Park. An Emerson College student died this afternoon from injuries suffered last night after she hit in the head by a projectile fired from a bean-bag gun used by police to subdue the crowd.
More than 2,000 UMass Amherst students gathered around a huge bonfire at a campus pond. Twenty-nine people were arrested, not all of them students. Most were charged with disorderly conduct or inciting a riot.
One officer suffered minor injuries while making an arrest.
The fun wasn’t limited to Boston. Rioting also broke out at the University of Vermont. More than 1,000 people set fires, toppled light poles and fences. One van was also flipped on its side.
Although police used rubber pellets to disperse the crowd, no injuries were reported.
The gloating is in full swing
A Red Sox fan here at work just brought in a Boston Cream Pie “so the Yankee fans could eat there hearts out.” Next to the pie he placed a sign that read “Who’s your daddy now?”
Mark this date down on your calendar folks – the day I turned down free food in the newsroom (and normally I love Boston Cream Pie)!
Meanwhile, I’ve only received three gloating e-mails from Aaron. He’s enjoying himself a little too much. He should be careful how much he dishes out – the Sox still have four more victories to go.
Game 7 Blues
I've been trying to think about what I would write if it came to this. Although I am filled with thoughts and emotions, I find I'm at a loss for words. Maybe something better will come to me later in the day.
Someone forgot to tell the Boston Red Sox that this wasn't supposed to happen. How can the Yankees blow a 3-0 lead to a bunch of guys who call themselves "The Idiots?"
The Sox simply outplayed the Yanks. They outpitched them (Kevin Brown sucks!), and they had David Ortiz. That was bad enough. Then Johnny "Captain Hairdo" Damon had to go and snap out of his slump all of a sudden.
The Sox won and thereby proved to be the better team. It doesn't change the fact that I still hate, hate, HATE the Boston Red Sox! I'm an American League guy. I always root for the the AL in the All-Star Game. If the Yanks aren't in the World Series, I always root for the AL team. But I will root with all my heart for the National League team (which will hopefully, if there is any justice, be Roger Clemens and the Houston Astros).
The worst parts of all this?
Someone forgot to tell the Boston Red Sox that this wasn't supposed to happen. How can the Yankees blow a 3-0 lead to a bunch of guys who call themselves "The Idiots?"
The Sox simply outplayed the Yanks. They outpitched them (Kevin Brown sucks!), and they had David Ortiz. That was bad enough. Then Johnny "Captain Hairdo" Damon had to go and snap out of his slump all of a sudden.
The Sox won and thereby proved to be the better team. It doesn't change the fact that I still hate, hate, HATE the Boston Red Sox! I'm an American League guy. I always root for the the AL in the All-Star Game. If the Yanks aren't in the World Series, I always root for the AL team. But I will root with all my heart for the National League team (which will hopefully, if there is any justice, be Roger Clemens and the Houston Astros).
The worst parts of all this?
- The historical aspect. Losing is one thing. Losing in Game 7 is one thing. Allowing the the Sox to become the first team in baseball history to come back from 3-0 sucks beyond description.
- Losing at home. Watching the Red Sox celebrate in the House That Ruth Built is cringe inducing -- especially with "New York, New York" playing in the background.
- Dealing with Red Sox Nation. All of you Sox fans will do your best gloating, I'm sure. Go ahead, get it out of your system. I'm sure there will be a nasty e-mail or three waiting for me in my inbox in the morning. You know who you are.
Some parting thoughts: For all of you "Reverse the Curse" people, remember that this doesn't change anything. You still need to win the World Series. Besides, if the Sox do win the World Series, their fans won't know what to do with themselves -- their whole image for the last 86 years is built around being losers. And finally, enjoy your victory while you can, Boston. You still have a long way to go catch up to Yankees' 26 championships and 39 penants.
I guess I found some words after all.
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
We're going to Game 7
Crap! This series is killing me. I can't believe we're going to Game 7 after the Yankees started out 3-0. That's the first time in baseball history that's happened. Ugh.
Tony Clark had his chance be this year's Bucky Dent/Aaron Boone and permanently change his name in the eyes of Red Sox fans to Tony F***in' Clark when he came to the plate representing the winning run in the bottom of the 9th. With two outs anda full count, Clark struck out. There is no joy in Mudville tonight, folks.
Well, the Yanks have beaten the Sox in Game 7 before, that much is for sure. After all, seven games was my original prediction, right?
Tony Clark had his chance be this year's Bucky Dent/Aaron Boone and permanently change his name in the eyes of Red Sox fans to Tony F***in' Clark when he came to the plate representing the winning run in the bottom of the 9th. With two outs anda full count, Clark struck out. There is no joy in Mudville tonight, folks.
Well, the Yanks have beaten the Sox in Game 7 before, that much is for sure. After all, seven games was my original prediction, right?
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
All clear
I don't know what's changed in the last few minutes, but the riot police have now withdrawn from the field.
Bedlam in the Bronx
The umpires have called in reinforcements...literally.
After twice reversing calls in favor of the Red Sox -- costing the Yankees a run the second time -- the umps are worried for their personal safety. So now there are cops in riot gear lining the sides of the field in case an angry mob storms the field.
PUH-leeze!
Granted, a bunch of assholes threw tuff onto the field after that second reveral in the bottom of the 8th, when A-Rod was ruled out on interference at first base and Jeter was sent back to first after scoring (you might recall Boston fans did the same after disagreeing with a call in 1999). But this, to me, seems like a huge over reaction. Everyone talks about the "Brox Zoo," but do they really think so little of Yankees fans as to worry about a riot breaking out?
Not to mention the potential impact on the game. What happens if one of these cops gets in the way of a player trying to catch a foul ball?
The Yankees-Red Sox rivalry has sunk to new depths of ugliness.
After twice reversing calls in favor of the Red Sox -- costing the Yankees a run the second time -- the umps are worried for their personal safety. So now there are cops in riot gear lining the sides of the field in case an angry mob storms the field.
PUH-leeze!
Granted, a bunch of assholes threw tuff onto the field after that second reveral in the bottom of the 8th, when A-Rod was ruled out on interference at first base and Jeter was sent back to first after scoring (you might recall Boston fans did the same after disagreeing with a call in 1999). But this, to me, seems like a huge over reaction. Everyone talks about the "Brox Zoo," but do they really think so little of Yankees fans as to worry about a riot breaking out?
Not to mention the potential impact on the game. What happens if one of these cops gets in the way of a player trying to catch a foul ball?
The Yankees-Red Sox rivalry has sunk to new depths of ugliness.
Catching up...
A lot went on over the weekend. There was a lot that I ordinarily would’ve loved to blog about, but because I was so busy I never really had a chance to. Here are the highlights:
- Took the kids to a great pumpkin patch in Schoharie County where they had all sorts of things to do – hay ride, corn maze, hay maze, animals, awesome cider doughnuts, these cool pedal-powered race cars and, of course, pumpkin picking.
- I finished the book I was reading, “Shadow Divers.” It told the amazing true story about these divers who discovered a sunken WWII U-boat 60 miles of the coast of New Jersey in 1991. No one – not the Americans, the British or the Germans – had any idea what U-boat it was, what is was doing there or how it was sunk. These guys spent six years unraveling the mystery and rewriting history along the way. Three divers were killed in the process. It was a fantastic read – I highly recommend it!
- I did get a chance to mention Saturday night’s Yankees-Red Sox blowout already. But Sunday and Monday’s games are killing me! Too damn long. I finally went to bed at about 1:15 a.m. Monday morning, after the 11th inning of Sunday’s game and I fell asleep last night and missed the end of last night’s game. Let’s hope the Yanks can wrap this up tonight.
- My old friend Dan Markiewicz came to visit Sunday evening. Dan and I have been friends since the second grade. This was only the second time I’ve seen him in the past 12 years (the last time was about seven years ago in Seattle). He lives in California now, but was in Boston last weekend for his sister’s wedding and came over to see us after.
- From the “Not So Fast Department,” after spending a morning at Starbucks with a bunch pro-Kerry buddies, Kris is now back in the undecided column with two weeks to go until Election Day.
- The BBC has unveiled the logo for the new “Doctor Who” series…
- Jon Stewart went at it with Paul “The Forehead” Begala and Tucker Carlson (mainly with Carlson) on CNN’s “Crossfire.” It got fairly heated and ugly. If you missed it, you have to see it!
- Finally, check out this article about the guy who got a surprise visit from the Air Force after it was determined his Toshiba flat screen TV was transmitting a signal on the frequency used for international distress signals. True story!
Sunday, October 17, 2004
On second thought...
Bombs away in Boston
Saturday night's final score: Boston 8, New York 19.
I think I can safely revise my seven game prediction. A sweep would just be too much to hope for, do I'll play it safe and say Yankees in five games (bt I'm getting my broom out just in case!).
Meanwhile, I'm campaigning for Matsui for MVP!
Saturday night's final score: Boston 8, New York 19.
I think I can safely revise my seven game prediction. A sweep would just be too much to hope for, do I'll play it safe and say Yankees in five games (bt I'm getting my broom out just in case!).
Meanwhile, I'm campaigning for Matsui for MVP!
Friday, October 15, 2004
Way to go, Brian!
Fremd wins first battle against persistent Conant
My nephew Brian got his name in the paper after scoring a goal in a recent high school hockey game:
Brian plays in the Chicago Metro High School Hockey League. He's the only freshman on the varsity team!
My nephew Brian got his name in the paper after scoring a goal in a recent high school hockey game:
Fremd's constant pressure finally paid off when Brian Rooney scored on a rebound goal assisted by Fitton and Steve DeCarlo for a 2-1 lead with 5:20 left in the second period.
Brian plays in the Chicago Metro High School Hockey League. He's the only freshman on the varsity team!
Backing Bush
My wife never ceases to surprise me.
All along, it’s been common knowledge I would probably vote for George W. Bush. Sure, there are some things about him I don’t care for, but it’s not enough to make want to vote for John Kerry.
Kris on the other hand, has been undecided, but clearly leaning toward Kerry. She has some friends who are diehard Democrats and have been pumping Kerry up to her. Just a week or two ago she told me that she thought she would vote for Kerry, and I told her, “Well I guess our votes will just have to cancel each other out.”
I watched the first two presidential debates and the vice presidential debate. Kris did not watch all of those debates, but caught bits and pieces of each one. Every time there would be responses that I thought Bush (or Dick Cheney) just nailed, while Kris thought the total opposite, leaving me to wonder if we were watching the same debate.
As I said before, I did not watch the debate Wednesday night. There were much more important things going on, like the Yankees demonstrating once again to Pedro Martinez who his daddy is. I never thought that Kris would watch the debate either. She usually gets bored by those sorts of things very quickly.
But to my surprise, she announced to me last night that she did watch the debate – and that she was going to vote for Bush! This caught me by complete surprise. What changed her mind?
Kris still isn’t wild about Bush. He did make a few points in the debate that she liked, but what really convinced her was that she came away from the debate believing Kerry was a phony who would say whatever he thought people most wanted to hear (and I agree completely!). Kris figured given the choice between four more years of the same, such as it is in her opinion, or rolling the dice on Kerry, she would rather stick with Bush.
So I’m proud that we’re both backing the same candidate. Now if only, in heavily Democratic New York State, our votes could actually count.
All along, it’s been common knowledge I would probably vote for George W. Bush. Sure, there are some things about him I don’t care for, but it’s not enough to make want to vote for John Kerry.
Kris on the other hand, has been undecided, but clearly leaning toward Kerry. She has some friends who are diehard Democrats and have been pumping Kerry up to her. Just a week or two ago she told me that she thought she would vote for Kerry, and I told her, “Well I guess our votes will just have to cancel each other out.”
I watched the first two presidential debates and the vice presidential debate. Kris did not watch all of those debates, but caught bits and pieces of each one. Every time there would be responses that I thought Bush (or Dick Cheney) just nailed, while Kris thought the total opposite, leaving me to wonder if we were watching the same debate.
As I said before, I did not watch the debate Wednesday night. There were much more important things going on, like the Yankees demonstrating once again to Pedro Martinez who his daddy is. I never thought that Kris would watch the debate either. She usually gets bored by those sorts of things very quickly.
But to my surprise, she announced to me last night that she did watch the debate – and that she was going to vote for Bush! This caught me by complete surprise. What changed her mind?
Kris still isn’t wild about Bush. He did make a few points in the debate that she liked, but what really convinced her was that she came away from the debate believing Kerry was a phony who would say whatever he thought people most wanted to hear (and I agree completely!). Kris figured given the choice between four more years of the same, such as it is in her opinion, or rolling the dice on Kerry, she would rather stick with Bush.
So I’m proud that we’re both backing the same candidate. Now if only, in heavily Democratic New York State, our votes could actually count.
Thursday, October 14, 2004
Friday nights at 10
Farrell, Foxx headed for MIAMI VICE?
It seems Michael Mann wants to bring "Miami Vice" to the big screen. According to Cinescape top choices to play Crocket and Tubbs are Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx.
I must admit, when I first saw the headline above, I feared they meant WILL Farrell and that the movie would be done as a comedy, like "Starsky & Hutch."
Cinescape makes a good point -- fine, go ahead and recast Crocket and Tubbs, but you MUST bring back Edward James Olmos as Lt. Castillo. No one else can play that part!
The important questions: Will the movie still be set in the 1980s? Will Glen Frey and Phil Collins be on the soundtrack? Will Jan Hammer do the music?
It seems Michael Mann wants to bring "Miami Vice" to the big screen. According to Cinescape top choices to play Crocket and Tubbs are Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx.
I must admit, when I first saw the headline above, I feared they meant WILL Farrell and that the movie would be done as a comedy, like "Starsky & Hutch."
Cinescape makes a good point -- fine, go ahead and recast Crocket and Tubbs, but you MUST bring back Edward James Olmos as Lt. Castillo. No one else can play that part!
The important questions: Will the movie still be set in the 1980s? Will Glen Frey and Phil Collins be on the soundtrack? Will Jan Hammer do the music?
The Harassment Factor
O'Reilly Hit With Sex Harass Suit - October 13, 2004
Holy cow! A Fox News Channel producer has filed a sexual harassment suit against professional blowhard Bill O'Reilly. You have got to read the details on The Smoking Gun. You have to wonder if any of these conversations were caught on tape!
Holy cow! A Fox News Channel producer has filed a sexual harassment suit against professional blowhard Bill O'Reilly. You have got to read the details on The Smoking Gun. You have to wonder if any of these conversations were caught on tape!
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
Oh yeah, and there's a debate
Does anyone still care that there's a debate on tonight? I watched
the first two and the VP debate. I feel like I've made up my mind.
While I found the others to be very interesting, I just don't care
about this one. Let's have Election Day here and get this over with!
Not to mention, and I might be biased on this one, how can a boring
debate compare to a Yankees-Red Sox post season baseball game?!? ;-)
the first two and the VP debate. I feel like I've made up my mind.
While I found the others to be very interesting, I just don't care
about this one. Let's have Election Day here and get this over with!
Not to mention, and I might be biased on this one, how can a boring
debate compare to a Yankees-Red Sox post season baseball game?!? ;-)
Enemy territory
Aaron has invited Noah and I to watch Game 2 at his house tonight.
Aaron's house is Red Sox territory! It should make for an interesting
evening.
Aaron's house is Red Sox territory! It should make for an interesting
evening.
Mariano Rivera is the man
No save bigger for Rivera
As if I didn't already have enough respect for Mariano Rivera as a player, I have even more now. After spending the weekend in Panama to attend the funeral of two family members, he hops a jet and arrives at Yankee Stadium during the 2nd inning. Then, with his heart still heavy with grief, he takes the mound and does what he does best.
As if I didn't already have enough respect for Mariano Rivera as a player, I have even more now. After spending the weekend in Panama to attend the funeral of two family members, he hops a jet and arrives at Yankee Stadium during the 2nd inning. Then, with his heart still heavy with grief, he takes the mound and does what he does best.
Rivera has stood at the center of the Yankees' success since 1996. The Yankees are used to finding him there. But everyone understood that this was something above the call of duty.
"Mo and I take a golf cart to the bullpen in the bottom of the fifth in every game," backup catcher John Flaherty said. "When I came in, I didn't even know he was here yet. He was dressed and ready to go, I gave him a hug and he said, 'Let's go, buddy.' He was ready to go.
"He looked like he was tired, but it sounded like he was ready to go. He told us he was happy to be back, that he took care of what he needed to take care of. Nobody would ever question this guy's focus.
"It was very special. It tells you a lot about him to know what he's gone through the last couple of days and then do what he did."
Said Alex Rodriguez: "To see what he did tonight, to be a leader for his family, to be a leader for this family here, it's pretty awesome."
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
Close call
Man! To go from 8-0 to 8-7 in two innings? Talk about nerve wracking! Fortunately, the Yanks pulled it out 10-7.
It's going to be a long series. I'll say Yankees in seven.
It's going to be a long series. I'll say Yankees in seven.
Rumble in the Bronx
Bottom of the 3rd and the Yanks are up 6-0. Curt Schilling is getting beaten up pretty bad.
The fans are chanting "WHO'S YOUR DAD-DY?!? WHO'S YOUR DAD-DY?!?"
I love it! I hope Pedro gets a chance to hear it tomorrow night.
The fans are chanting "WHO'S YOUR DAD-DY?!? WHO'S YOUR DAD-DY?!?"
I love it! I hope Pedro gets a chance to hear it tomorrow night.
Damn delays
I'm watching Game 1 of the ALCS (go Yanks!). Generally I can't stand baseball on Fox, so I decided to mute the audio and listen to John Sterling and Charlie Steiner call the game on the radio. I've done this in the past, but I haven't done it recently.
I soon noticed there was a significant delay between the radio broadcast and the TV broadcast. It made it unwatchable using the radio.
I suppose we have the FCC and Janet Jackson's boob to thank for this. Ugh.
I soon noticed there was a significant delay between the radio broadcast and the TV broadcast. It made it unwatchable using the radio.
I suppose we have the FCC and Janet Jackson's boob to thank for this. Ugh.
The John Hughes Collection
Kris and I caught parts of “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” not once, but twice, over the weekend. To this day that still remains a great movie – a true classic.
That got me thinking – if someone were to come out with a box set of John Hughes movies on DVD, I think I would have to snatch that up.
What movies should be included? I think “Sixteen Candles, “The Breakfast Club” and “Ferris Bueller” are givens. But let’s say it’s a six-disc set. What other movies should be in there?
I think I know my choices, but let’s hear what you have to say. Let’s limit it to Hughes’ teen movies, even though that would leave out his biggest money-maker, “Home Alone,” and the classic “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” However, I think we can include “Uncle Buck” since a good part of the plot revolves around Buck’s dealings with his troubled teenage niece Tia.
One day I’m going to show some of these movies to my kids and explain to them that this is “my era” – and my kids will probably think I’m some kind of dinosaur.
So what do you think? What are your favorite John Hughes movies?
That got me thinking – if someone were to come out with a box set of John Hughes movies on DVD, I think I would have to snatch that up.
What movies should be included? I think “Sixteen Candles, “The Breakfast Club” and “Ferris Bueller” are givens. But let’s say it’s a six-disc set. What other movies should be in there?
I think I know my choices, but let’s hear what you have to say. Let’s limit it to Hughes’ teen movies, even though that would leave out his biggest money-maker, “Home Alone,” and the classic “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” However, I think we can include “Uncle Buck” since a good part of the plot revolves around Buck’s dealings with his troubled teenage niece Tia.
One day I’m going to show some of these movies to my kids and explain to them that this is “my era” – and my kids will probably think I’m some kind of dinosaur.
So what do you think? What are your favorite John Hughes movies?
Political humor
A woman in a hot air balloon realized she was lost. She lowered her altitude and spotted a man in a boat below. She shouted to him, "Excuse me, can you help me? I promised a friend I would meet him an hour ago, but I don't know where I am."
The man consulted his portable GPS and replied, "You're in a hot air balloon, approximately 30 feet above a ground elevation of 2346 feet above sea level. You are at 31 degrees, 14.97 minutes north latitude and 100 degrees, 49.09 minutes west longitude."
She rolled her eyes and said, "You must be a Republican."
"I am," replied the man. "How did you know?"
"Well," answered the balloonist, "everything you told me is technically correct, but I have no idea what to do with your information, and I'm still lost. Frankly, you've not been much help to me."
The man smiled and responded, "You must be a Democrat."
"I am," replied the balloonist. "How did you know?"
"Well," said the man, "you don't know where you are or where you're going. You've risen to where you are due to a large quantity of hot air. You made a promise that you have no idea how to keep, and you expect me to solve your problem. You're in exactly the same position you were in before we met but, somehow, now it's my fault."
The man consulted his portable GPS and replied, "You're in a hot air balloon, approximately 30 feet above a ground elevation of 2346 feet above sea level. You are at 31 degrees, 14.97 minutes north latitude and 100 degrees, 49.09 minutes west longitude."
She rolled her eyes and said, "You must be a Republican."
"I am," replied the man. "How did you know?"
"Well," answered the balloonist, "everything you told me is technically correct, but I have no idea what to do with your information, and I'm still lost. Frankly, you've not been much help to me."
The man smiled and responded, "You must be a Democrat."
"I am," replied the balloonist. "How did you know?"
"Well," said the man, "you don't know where you are or where you're going. You've risen to where you are due to a large quantity of hot air. You made a promise that you have no idea how to keep, and you expect me to solve your problem. You're in exactly the same position you were in before we met but, somehow, now it's my fault."
The latest on Patrick
I haven’t posted any Patrick news lately. I keep meaning to, but I never get around to it.
Anyway, he seems to be responding well to his treatments. According to my sister, the doctors think he’s right no track – right where they would expect him to be at this point.
Remember the article about Patrick that ran in his local paper? After reading it, I e-mailed the writer just to let him know that his uncle up in New York got to read it and how great I thought it was. It turns out, the printed my e-mail in the paper down there! My sister said she was reading the paper and spotted the name “Chris Rooney” and thought, “Hey, how about that,” until she realized that it was me.
So nothing hugely new. As always, I’ll keep you posted as developments warrant.
Anyway, he seems to be responding well to his treatments. According to my sister, the doctors think he’s right no track – right where they would expect him to be at this point.
Remember the article about Patrick that ran in his local paper? After reading it, I e-mailed the writer just to let him know that his uncle up in New York got to read it and how great I thought it was. It turns out, the printed my e-mail in the paper down there! My sister said she was reading the paper and spotted the name “Chris Rooney” and thought, “Hey, how about that,” until she realized that it was me.
So nothing hugely new. As always, I’ll keep you posted as developments warrant.
Bicycling buddies
I took the day off from work yesterday to help Kris out as she recovered from her marathon the day before. One of the highlights of the day was some time I spent with Nolan.
For a long time, mom had this small, blue BMX kids’ bike collecting dust in her garage. She originally picked it up at a garage sale for my nephew Louis to use when he was visiting her house. But it never got much use. This year, for Nolan’s fourth birthday, she wanted to have it cleaned up and have some training wheels put on it and give it to him.
Actually, I was the one who cleaned it up and put the training wheels on. Mom gave it to Nolan, but he wasn’t that interested in it. The truth is, he only just this year started using the Radio Flyer tricycle she bought him for his second birthday. He tried the bicycle, but had a hard time figuring out how to make it move forward and quickly got frustrated. Given the choice, he always preferred the tricycle, and I didn’t want to force the issue at this point. I wanted bicycling to be a very positive experience for him.
Then about a week ago he was riding his tricycle as Kris walked Chester and pushed Thomas in the stroller, and he kept falling over. Kris explained that he was starting to get too big for his tricycle (something I had told him before). Just like that, he declared he wanted to go home and try his blue bike. By the time I got home from work that night, he couldn’t wait to take me outside and show me how he could do laps around the patio. Now when it’s time to walk the dog, he’s always excited to ride along on his bike. He just needed it to be his idea.
Which brings us to yesterday. For the first time, we went for a bike ride together. No dog. No baby brother. No mommy. Just the two of us pedaling around the neighborhood. It was so much fun!
At the end of the day I always ask Nolan what his favorite part of the day was. We had gone out to dinner that night, so he said the restaurant was his favorite. But make no mistake, I told him my favorite part was our little bike ride.
For a long time, mom had this small, blue BMX kids’ bike collecting dust in her garage. She originally picked it up at a garage sale for my nephew Louis to use when he was visiting her house. But it never got much use. This year, for Nolan’s fourth birthday, she wanted to have it cleaned up and have some training wheels put on it and give it to him.
Actually, I was the one who cleaned it up and put the training wheels on. Mom gave it to Nolan, but he wasn’t that interested in it. The truth is, he only just this year started using the Radio Flyer tricycle she bought him for his second birthday. He tried the bicycle, but had a hard time figuring out how to make it move forward and quickly got frustrated. Given the choice, he always preferred the tricycle, and I didn’t want to force the issue at this point. I wanted bicycling to be a very positive experience for him.
Then about a week ago he was riding his tricycle as Kris walked Chester and pushed Thomas in the stroller, and he kept falling over. Kris explained that he was starting to get too big for his tricycle (something I had told him before). Just like that, he declared he wanted to go home and try his blue bike. By the time I got home from work that night, he couldn’t wait to take me outside and show me how he could do laps around the patio. Now when it’s time to walk the dog, he’s always excited to ride along on his bike. He just needed it to be his idea.
Which brings us to yesterday. For the first time, we went for a bike ride together. No dog. No baby brother. No mommy. Just the two of us pedaling around the neighborhood. It was so much fun!
At the end of the day I always ask Nolan what his favorite part of the day was. We had gone out to dinner that night, so he said the restaurant was his favorite. But make no mistake, I told him my favorite part was our little bike ride.
Sunday, October 10, 2004
Marathon mania
Mohawk Hudson Marathon
Kris completed her marathon today! She was hoping to finish in under five hours. In the end her finish time was 5:00:47.
But hey, what's 47 seconds anyway? The awesome thing is that she did it. In fact that's what I told her -- "You're awesome, you're my hero!" I am extremely proud of her. As I've said, I huff and puff my way through a 5K. I could never do a marahton.
The boys and I caught Kris and her running partner, Sunny, at about mile 3. After that we went home for a bit and then hopped in the car and caught them again at mile 16, where we passed off water and energy gels. Then it was on to the finish line in Albany where we ate lunch and waited for mommy to arrive.
When she came down the path and saw us we (the boys and I and some people from Kris' running group) started to cheer and I saw her face light up. After crossing the finish line she came walking over to us and looked thrilled. But as I went to hug her she burst into tears. Kris would later admit that she wasn't thinking straight and can't remember the moment very well. But I could tell they were tears of joy.
Right now Kris says she doesn't think she wants to do this again, but lets give her some time and then see how she feels. I think she'll be running a marathon again someday.
I found the whole thing very inspirational. Now I'm anxious to tackle another long bike ride. Only eight more months until next year's Tour de Cure!
Incidentally, my brother Tim also ran the Chicago marathon today. He finished in 3:20:16. Way to go, Tim!
Kris completed her marathon today! She was hoping to finish in under five hours. In the end her finish time was 5:00:47.
But hey, what's 47 seconds anyway? The awesome thing is that she did it. In fact that's what I told her -- "You're awesome, you're my hero!" I am extremely proud of her. As I've said, I huff and puff my way through a 5K. I could never do a marahton.
The boys and I caught Kris and her running partner, Sunny, at about mile 3. After that we went home for a bit and then hopped in the car and caught them again at mile 16, where we passed off water and energy gels. Then it was on to the finish line in Albany where we ate lunch and waited for mommy to arrive.
When she came down the path and saw us we (the boys and I and some people from Kris' running group) started to cheer and I saw her face light up. After crossing the finish line she came walking over to us and looked thrilled. But as I went to hug her she burst into tears. Kris would later admit that she wasn't thinking straight and can't remember the moment very well. But I could tell they were tears of joy.
Right now Kris says she doesn't think she wants to do this again, but lets give her some time and then see how she feels. I think she'll be running a marathon again someday.
I found the whole thing very inspirational. Now I'm anxious to tackle another long bike ride. Only eight more months until next year's Tour de Cure!
Incidentally, my brother Tim also ran the Chicago marathon today. He finished in 3:20:16. Way to go, Tim!
Saturday, October 09, 2004
Off to the races
Everybody wish Kris good luck. Tomorrow is the big day -- the Mohawk-Hundson Marathon!
Another one bites the dust
Rowling to pick off another Potter pal
J.K. Rowling revealed Friday that another character will buy it in her next book, "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."
Anyone want to make any predictions? A lot of people seemed to think it my Hagrid that would be killed in the last book, only to have it turn out to be Harry's godfather, Sirius Black. I'm betting it will be one of the following: Mr. Weasley, Remus Lupin or Mad Eye Moody.
J.K. Rowling revealed Friday that another character will buy it in her next book, "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."
Anyone want to make any predictions? A lot of people seemed to think it my Hagrid that would be killed in the last book, only to have it turn out to be Harry's godfather, Sirius Black. I'm betting it will be one of the following: Mr. Weasley, Remus Lupin or Mad Eye Moody.
Friday, October 08, 2004
The debate drinking game, round 3
Last time I drank every time someone said “Halliburton” (which was only seven times). For the first debate, I took a swig every time Bush said “duty.” What’s tonight’s phrase that pays? Grab your beers kids and take a gulp whenever the president uses the words “hard work.”
Thursday, October 07, 2004
9 years and counting
I'd like to take this opportunity to publicly wish my wonderful wife, Kris, a very happy anniversary.
At this very hour, nine years ago, I saw her come walking down the aisle and was swelled with joy at thought of being married to her. I still feel that way today.
Kris slipped a card into my lunch before I left for work this morning. In it, she said that I "keep her sane." I called her to say thanks and told her that I thought I drove her nuts. She said, "Sometimes you do that to." :-)
I know that every good thing that's happened to me in the last 14 years since we met can be traced back to Kris in some way. Without a doubt, she is the best thing to ever happen to me, and as I'm fond of telling her, she's my favorite person.
Happy anniversary, kiddo!
At this very hour, nine years ago, I saw her come walking down the aisle and was swelled with joy at thought of being married to her. I still feel that way today.
Kris slipped a card into my lunch before I left for work this morning. In it, she said that I "keep her sane." I called her to say thanks and told her that I thought I drove her nuts. She said, "Sometimes you do that to." :-)
I know that every good thing that's happened to me in the last 14 years since we met can be traced back to Kris in some way. Without a doubt, she is the best thing to ever happen to me, and as I'm fond of telling her, she's my favorite person.
Happy anniversary, kiddo!
TARDIS on course for the U.S.
The Doctor Who New Series News Page at Outpost Gallifrey
It looks like we can hopefully expect an announcement soon about who will carry the new "Dr. Who" series in the United States. It was announced earlier in the week that the show has been sold to the CBC in Canada. Yesterday came a report that the BBC is talking to an "interested party" here in the states. Toward the end of the summer there were rumors the Sci Fi Channel was interested in the show.
It looks like we can hopefully expect an announcement soon about who will carry the new "Dr. Who" series in the United States. It was announced earlier in the week that the show has been sold to the CBC in Canada. Yesterday came a report that the BBC is talking to an "interested party" here in the states. Toward the end of the summer there were rumors the Sci Fi Channel was interested in the show.
A new online addiction
popoint
This simple game is extremely addictive. My personal best so far is 6.594 seconds.
From Lost Remote
UPDATE: 5.809 seconds!
UPDATE: 5.748 seconds! (I know, I know, I should be working...)
This simple game is extremely addictive. My personal best so far is 6.594 seconds.
From Lost Remote
UPDATE: 5.809 seconds!
UPDATE: 5.748 seconds! (I know, I know, I should be working...)
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
The times, they are a changin'
Former TV Guide critic Jeff Jarvis (also creator of Entertainment Weekly) weighs in on Howard Stern's move to Sirius satellite radio on his blog BuzzMachine...
There, ladies and gentlemen, is the last nail in the coffin of broadcast as the central medium in America. And the FCC hammered it in.
Stern gets Sirius
Howard Stern making jump to satellite radio
Well there you go, FCC. You wanted Howard Stern off the air -- you got your wish (sort of).
Stern annouced today that he will move his show to Sirius satellite radio when his contract with Infinity Broadcasting expires in 15 months.
“It has been my dream to have the top-rated show in radio since I was five years old,” Stern said in a statement. “Sirius — the future of radio — will take this dream to a whole new level as I bring my fans my show my way. It will be the best radio they will ever hear.”
Sirius reportedly signed Stern to a 5-year deal worth $100 million! Is he worth it? I used to be a regular Stern listener, but haven't listened regularly in years. Even if I was still a regular listener, I don't think I liked his show enough that I would be willing to pay for it.
It will be very interesting to see how this changes things in the future? Will Sirius sell more subscriptions? Will XM Radio try to pick up a shock jock of its own to compete? Will other shock jocks change their tune now that the FCC's No. 1 target is out of the picture? Time will tell.
Well there you go, FCC. You wanted Howard Stern off the air -- you got your wish (sort of).
Stern annouced today that he will move his show to Sirius satellite radio when his contract with Infinity Broadcasting expires in 15 months.
“It has been my dream to have the top-rated show in radio since I was five years old,” Stern said in a statement. “Sirius — the future of radio — will take this dream to a whole new level as I bring my fans my show my way. It will be the best radio they will ever hear.”
Sirius reportedly signed Stern to a 5-year deal worth $100 million! Is he worth it? I used to be a regular Stern listener, but haven't listened regularly in years. Even if I was still a regular listener, I don't think I liked his show enough that I would be willing to pay for it.
It will be very interesting to see how this changes things in the future? Will Sirius sell more subscriptions? Will XM Radio try to pick up a shock jock of its own to compete? Will other shock jocks change their tune now that the FCC's No. 1 target is out of the picture? Time will tell.
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
Giving Rodney the respect he deserves
Rodney Dangerfield dead at 82
Actor and comedian Rodney Dangerfield, who had a heart valve replaced Aug. 25, died Tuesday in Los Angeles at the age of 82.
We've lost a comedic legend. The great Rodney Dangerfield past away today. He never recovered from the heart valve replacement surgery he had on Aug. 25.
Before going into the hospital, Rodney was asked how long he would be in. He said (I'm paraphrasing), "If things don't go well, not very long." There's the classic Dangerfield wit.
Unfortunately, Rodney suffered a stroke shortly after surgery and remained in the hospital for more than a month -- most of the time in a coma.
MSNBC is running poll, asking people what their favorite Rodney role was. There are 10 choices on the list, but it really comes down to "Caddyshack" and "Back to School" -- both classics. "Caddyshack" is the better movie, but had an ensemble cast. "Back to School" was a better showcase for Rodney. I'm hoping both will be replayed continuously on cable somewhere in the days ahead.
Actor and comedian Rodney Dangerfield, who had a heart valve replaced Aug. 25, died Tuesday in Los Angeles at the age of 82.
We've lost a comedic legend. The great Rodney Dangerfield past away today. He never recovered from the heart valve replacement surgery he had on Aug. 25.
Before going into the hospital, Rodney was asked how long he would be in. He said (I'm paraphrasing), "If things don't go well, not very long." There's the classic Dangerfield wit.
Unfortunately, Rodney suffered a stroke shortly after surgery and remained in the hospital for more than a month -- most of the time in a coma.
MSNBC is running poll, asking people what their favorite Rodney role was. There are 10 choices on the list, but it really comes down to "Caddyshack" and "Back to School" -- both classics. "Caddyshack" is the better movie, but had an ensemble cast. "Back to School" was a better showcase for Rodney. I'm hoping both will be replayed continuously on cable somewhere in the days ahead.
The VP debate drinking game
I'm watching the vice presidential debate right now (I'll go back to the ballgame as soon as the debate is over). I've got a bottle of Saranac Octoberfest Lager in front of me, and I've decided to take a drink everytime someone mentions "Haliburton." I'm up to seven so far.
Personally, I think Cheney is doing great. He's cool under pressure, very matter of fact and to-the-point with his responses. Edwards seems more emotional, high strung and is doing all the smirking and eye rolling that Bush was criticized for.
This is much more interesting than the presidential debate last Thursday. I almost wish these were the two guys running.
You know, I like Dick Cheney, even if he does look a little like old man Potter from "It's a Wonderful Life."
Personally, I think Cheney is doing great. He's cool under pressure, very matter of fact and to-the-point with his responses. Edwards seems more emotional, high strung and is doing all the smirking and eye rolling that Bush was criticized for.
This is much more interesting than the presidential debate last Thursday. I almost wish these were the two guys running.
You know, I like Dick Cheney, even if he does look a little like old man Potter from "It's a Wonderful Life."
Decisions, decisions...
Voters' choice: debate v. baseball
Tonight's vice presidential debate between Dick Cheney and John Edwards looks to be the more interesting than the presidential ones. Ordinarily, I would be looking forward to it. There's just one problem...
The Yankees and Twins are facing off in the Game 1 of the ALDS. I'll probably start with the game, since it begins about an hour before the debate (on the dreaded Fox -- the worst baseball broadcasters EVER!). Then once the debate starts I'll probably flip over to that during breaks in the game.
Tonight is the kind of night when I'll miss my picture-in-picture. Our last TV had PIP, but the new one we bought in the spring does not.
Tonight's vice presidential debate between Dick Cheney and John Edwards looks to be the more interesting than the presidential ones. Ordinarily, I would be looking forward to it. There's just one problem...
The Yankees and Twins are facing off in the Game 1 of the ALDS. I'll probably start with the game, since it begins about an hour before the debate (on the dreaded Fox -- the worst baseball broadcasters EVER!). Then once the debate starts I'll probably flip over to that during breaks in the game.
Tonight is the kind of night when I'll miss my picture-in-picture. Our last TV had PIP, but the new one we bought in the spring does not.
The Batmobile!
I stumbled across this picture today and just had to post it. Friends from high school will remember this is the fabled Batmobile. These were the Rooney family wheels during my high school days -- a 1986 Chevy Eurosport.
Ours was just like this one, except it was all black with a red pin stripe. And like I said, ours was an '86 (although mom and dad actually bought it in November 1985). The one in the picture is an '85. The big difference between the '85 and the '86? 1986 was the first year all cars had to have the brake light in the rear window.
I loved this car. This was the car I learned to drive in. I drove that thing all over Niskayuna, and then it used to take me back and forth to college. Just this morning as I was driving to work I was thinking about how the car had a quirk that allowed you to pull the keys out while the car was running. I used to have fun scaring passengers by yanking out the keys while driving down the road and tossing them into their lap, saying, "Here, hold these."
Dad took excellent care of the Batmobile. Over the years he probably put far more money into it than he paid for it. He finally got rid of it sometime in the mid to late '90s in favor of a Honda Accord.
Friday, October 01, 2004
On the road again
We’re off to visit Kris’ parents this weekend. Actually, Kris and the kids (and Chester) should be there already. I’ll be taking off as soon as I leave work.
Despite all my complaining about how busy we were over the summer and how nice it was to have some time with no plans, it’s kind of nice to be getting away.
Have a good weekend all.
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