I hate New Year's Eve. Let me be even clearer: I loathe it. Despise it. It is - by far - my least favorite night of the year.
Yet I'm trying this year, after two very sad and lonely New Year's Eve's. I promised myself that I wouldn't let it happen again in 2009 - that was an actual goal of mine. By hook or by crook (whatever that means), I would not be surfing the net and listening to Seacrest or some other painful thing.
Thanks to Mick and Gretchen.
And thanks to Sean. Just for being a great kid.
For me, the new year will start with some college football and the Winter Classic tomorrow, followed by the Legend's Classic at Fenway Park on Saturday, where Harold and I will be hanging with the other media types.
So bring on 2010 and let's hope for better and brighter days!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
John Sterling's Final Out of the 2009 World Series (With VIDEO)
I had not seen this piece of YouTube goodness. This is the final out of the 2009 World Series, shot from the Yankees Radio Network booth. Watch Sterling as he shakes and rocks after calling the final out.
For a Yankees fan, it's funny. For a broadcaster and an historian, it's a bit tough to watch. Since I'm all three, I find that I will retain my sense of humor and laugh at it. I have to admit that I'll understand if annoys you.
The link is here.
By the way, my boss from Hudson Valley Talk Radio (Mount Saint Mary College) called me today. Just to see how I was. To wish me happy holidays. To let me know he's got a banner we can use to advertise our broadcasts. To tell me the broadcasts sound better than he even expected.
And to make sure all paperwork has been filed so that I can get paid for my efforts.
I didn't ask for the call, but I absolutely appreciated it.
For a Yankees fan, it's funny. For a broadcaster and an historian, it's a bit tough to watch. Since I'm all three, I find that I will retain my sense of humor and laugh at it. I have to admit that I'll understand if annoys you.
The link is here.
By the way, my boss from Hudson Valley Talk Radio (Mount Saint Mary College) called me today. Just to see how I was. To wish me happy holidays. To let me know he's got a banner we can use to advertise our broadcasts. To tell me the broadcasts sound better than he even expected.
And to make sure all paperwork has been filed so that I can get paid for my efforts.
I didn't ask for the call, but I absolutely appreciated it.
Monday, December 28, 2009
More MSG Problems
Tim Parry says it's not just WGCH that has butted heads with the cable giant.
Tim tells his stories here.
I think, overall, schools are hesitant to tell MSG (and any other TV) to tone it down because they want the exposure. That's great, but don't forget about the loyal local media and other supporters that have been there for you for years.
Tim tells his stories here.
I think, overall, schools are hesitant to tell MSG (and any other TV) to tone it down because they want the exposure. That's great, but don't forget about the loyal local media and other supporters that have been there for you for years.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
I Love To Drive...More Than Ever
I don't mind flying. Seriously. It's quick and fairly safe.
But thanks to the asshats of the world, and our overreaction to said ass-hattery, we get the following, courtesy of the TSA:
New rules imposed by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration also limit on-board activities by customers and crew in U.S. airspace that may adversely impact on-board service. Among other things, during the final hour of flight customers must remain seated, will not be allowed to access carry-on baggage, or have personal belongings or other items on their laps.Hat tip to Jeff Pearlman for the blog post that alerted readers to this notice from Air Canada, mentioning the new silliness.
So again - why do I love to drive so much?
It's Been a Month...Time To Tell the Story
November 26th was Thanksgiving and, as I have done for nine years in a row, I worked. WGCH broadcast the Greenwich/Staples game from Westport and I was at the mic with my crew of Sean Kilkelly (analysis), Nick Fox (stats), Chris Kaelin walking the Staples sideline, and Chris Erway on the Greenwich side. Rob Crowley kept us on the air, running the controls from the studio.
Just a normal day for us.
The Greenwich/Staples game has been played every Thanksgiving since 2005 and, at first, appeared to be a "made for TV" event, as MSG (Madison Square Garden) carried the initial three games, before skipping 2008. Yet they were back with a vengeance in 2009.
MSG (and their high school channel, MSG Varsity) have been a constant presence during the '09 season. There has been a lot of criticism of their efforts (mispronounced names, technical glitches, and so on). I can't fault them; it's tough to swoop in and we've had our share over the years of name and technical issues.
For the most part, I've enjoyed a very nice relationship with the folks from MSG/Cablevision/News 12. In fact, I even worked there - for one day, several years ago as a writer before budget cuts eliminated the need for me. I've chatted with some of their talent and members of the crew. Overall, nice people who have a job to do. They tend to get some things from us (especially from the sideline) and we're happy to help. They return the favor by letting us steal a glance at their replay monitors when nearby.
They often show up ridiculously early to a game site because they have to - there are cables to run and a lot to do. They also kind of take over, and there's a perception that they run the place (they have a large staff, so folks are outnumbered). So yeah, a sort of resentment builds because, as noted, they swoop in, where we're with Greenwich every game.
Don't worry. Writers resent radio and TV. Just how it goes.
A little back story before we get to "the main event": MSG Varsity was also at Stamford. Tight booth, but harmonious. Additionally they were at Trumbull. That night, one of their producers didn't like the audio being played from the booth because they were setting up their "stand up" (the opening of a broadcast). The guy looks at me, glares, and tells me to turn it down. Now - mind you - I'm wearing a headset and a Greenwich football shirt. I told him I don't work there, but I will try. I didn't turn it down enough to his liking, so he barked "ALL THE WAY DOWN" to me.
Now, you can tell me he has a rough job to do, but there's such a thing as professionalism. It's what I push with my team when we go somewhere. I ask that we show up, set up, get our stuff out of the way, and do our job. Also, in years of doing this, I've never seen a TV crew come in and DEMAND that the stadium alter their audio. Ever.
Of course, they institute TV timeouts and other elements but that's part of the price.
Back to Staples.
We have already accepted that, thanks to MSG and WWPT, the Staples on-site radio station, that we would be outside. Whatever - our friend Mike Zito did everything in his power to work with us. It was a nice day, so no big deal. It's hardly the first time that TV or another station has booted us. It's happened many times (Danbury and Staples this year...Westhill another year...McMahon another...you get the idea). We've worked from roof tops, bleachers, classrooms, and so on.
The game broadcast went on, and we had "it." We were about as good as we, or anyone else, can get. The Staples fans near us sung our praises, and I thought we had a great call. As you might know, Greenwich lost 30-28 as Staples kicked a field goal then blocked a Greenwich attempted field goal.
Onto the postgame show! Chris Kaelin has been thinking "outside of the box", taking non-Greenwich fans as a guest, specifically in the games that Greenwich lost. Because of our microphone system, the on-field guys know to stay within my line of site for interviews. Chris thought it would be good to get Staples coach Marce Petroccio - someone who I know anyway, and is a reader of this blog. Good call, I thought. I threw it to Chris, and he did a fine interview before an MSG production assistant walked in and said, "Come on, Coach, let's go. Live TV", and they walked away.
What in the name of Erin Andrews had happened?
Back in our "booth", I flipped. On the air, I called what they did "unprofessional" and "bush league." I knew I needed to get to break before I really lost it. Off the air, I shouted, "Who the hell does MSG think they are?" into the press box. I got no response. I apologized to Sean and Nick for going nuts but they seemed to think I was justified.
Then I got the rest of the story - and both Chris Kaelin and Chris Erway were witness to it.
Part of the MSG Thanksgiving game thing is shtick - a big, monstrous turkey. It's been the source of controversy before (locker room antics and such). One other year, Greenwich donated it to a food pantry. But MSG likes to get shots of players and coaches munching on it. A big ol' gorge fest! Ha ha and all that stuff.
As MSG is setting up their "turkey shot", Chris Kaelin asks Coach Petroccio to come on with us. Marce - always good to us - agrees, and Chris knew to make it quick. That's when an MSG "talent" (quotations are mine) accosted Chris. Frosty language ensued, in which the MSG person says, essentially, that they're live TV.
So who the hell are we?
Before you ask, yes. We have big, laminated ID's, and Chris Kaelin is the best at displaying his.
We finished the broadcast and I was livid. I still can't believe the arrogance. Sure, you're live TV. I'll even offer that you're audience is better than ours. But we're still live...on the radio. And I know a lot of people who turned the MSG sound down to listen to us. For whatever that is worth.
What it's worth, to the people of Greenwich, FCIAC fans, and people in the know, is that we do a good job. That we're like friends to our listeners. And that we know our stuff.
Now, let me make one thing clear. I'm declining to name the talent. I've used the name on this blog before and had my own thoughts about him or her before Thanksgiving. I also am not a big fan of bridge burning, but people have asked what happened on Thanksgiving. So now I'm telling, with as much decorum as I can.
I won't let one (or two) bad apples, or misunderstandings, or whatever, ruin things.
And I will also tell you that it was not Mike Quick - the "dean" of high school journalists around the tri-state area, and a guy who has come on with us whenever we have asked. Something tells me Mike knew we weren't too happy with what transpired.
OK, I've told the story. And so it goes. We'll no doubt see MSG again, and jockey for position, and try to make the best of it. But I've tried to treat them, the writers, and fellow radio announcers with the highest of respect.
That needs to be a two-way street.
Just a normal day for us.
The Greenwich/Staples game has been played every Thanksgiving since 2005 and, at first, appeared to be a "made for TV" event, as MSG (Madison Square Garden) carried the initial three games, before skipping 2008. Yet they were back with a vengeance in 2009.
MSG (and their high school channel, MSG Varsity) have been a constant presence during the '09 season. There has been a lot of criticism of their efforts (mispronounced names, technical glitches, and so on). I can't fault them; it's tough to swoop in and we've had our share over the years of name and technical issues.
For the most part, I've enjoyed a very nice relationship with the folks from MSG/Cablevision/News 12. In fact, I even worked there - for one day, several years ago as a writer before budget cuts eliminated the need for me. I've chatted with some of their talent and members of the crew. Overall, nice people who have a job to do. They tend to get some things from us (especially from the sideline) and we're happy to help. They return the favor by letting us steal a glance at their replay monitors when nearby.
They often show up ridiculously early to a game site because they have to - there are cables to run and a lot to do. They also kind of take over, and there's a perception that they run the place (they have a large staff, so folks are outnumbered). So yeah, a sort of resentment builds because, as noted, they swoop in, where we're with Greenwich every game.
Don't worry. Writers resent radio and TV. Just how it goes.
A little back story before we get to "the main event": MSG Varsity was also at Stamford. Tight booth, but harmonious. Additionally they were at Trumbull. That night, one of their producers didn't like the audio being played from the booth because they were setting up their "stand up" (the opening of a broadcast). The guy looks at me, glares, and tells me to turn it down. Now - mind you - I'm wearing a headset and a Greenwich football shirt. I told him I don't work there, but I will try. I didn't turn it down enough to his liking, so he barked "ALL THE WAY DOWN" to me.
Now, you can tell me he has a rough job to do, but there's such a thing as professionalism. It's what I push with my team when we go somewhere. I ask that we show up, set up, get our stuff out of the way, and do our job. Also, in years of doing this, I've never seen a TV crew come in and DEMAND that the stadium alter their audio. Ever.
Of course, they institute TV timeouts and other elements but that's part of the price.
Back to Staples.
We have already accepted that, thanks to MSG and WWPT, the Staples on-site radio station, that we would be outside. Whatever - our friend Mike Zito did everything in his power to work with us. It was a nice day, so no big deal. It's hardly the first time that TV or another station has booted us. It's happened many times (Danbury and Staples this year...Westhill another year...McMahon another...you get the idea). We've worked from roof tops, bleachers, classrooms, and so on.
The game broadcast went on, and we had "it." We were about as good as we, or anyone else, can get. The Staples fans near us sung our praises, and I thought we had a great call. As you might know, Greenwich lost 30-28 as Staples kicked a field goal then blocked a Greenwich attempted field goal.
Onto the postgame show! Chris Kaelin has been thinking "outside of the box", taking non-Greenwich fans as a guest, specifically in the games that Greenwich lost. Because of our microphone system, the on-field guys know to stay within my line of site for interviews. Chris thought it would be good to get Staples coach Marce Petroccio - someone who I know anyway, and is a reader of this blog. Good call, I thought. I threw it to Chris, and he did a fine interview before an MSG production assistant walked in and said, "Come on, Coach, let's go. Live TV", and they walked away.
What in the name of Erin Andrews had happened?
Back in our "booth", I flipped. On the air, I called what they did "unprofessional" and "bush league." I knew I needed to get to break before I really lost it. Off the air, I shouted, "Who the hell does MSG think they are?" into the press box. I got no response. I apologized to Sean and Nick for going nuts but they seemed to think I was justified.
Then I got the rest of the story - and both Chris Kaelin and Chris Erway were witness to it.
Part of the MSG Thanksgiving game thing is shtick - a big, monstrous turkey. It's been the source of controversy before (locker room antics and such). One other year, Greenwich donated it to a food pantry. But MSG likes to get shots of players and coaches munching on it. A big ol' gorge fest! Ha ha and all that stuff.
As MSG is setting up their "turkey shot", Chris Kaelin asks Coach Petroccio to come on with us. Marce - always good to us - agrees, and Chris knew to make it quick. That's when an MSG "talent" (quotations are mine) accosted Chris. Frosty language ensued, in which the MSG person says, essentially, that they're live TV.
So who the hell are we?
Before you ask, yes. We have big, laminated ID's, and Chris Kaelin is the best at displaying his.
We finished the broadcast and I was livid. I still can't believe the arrogance. Sure, you're live TV. I'll even offer that you're audience is better than ours. But we're still live...on the radio. And I know a lot of people who turned the MSG sound down to listen to us. For whatever that is worth.
What it's worth, to the people of Greenwich, FCIAC fans, and people in the know, is that we do a good job. That we're like friends to our listeners. And that we know our stuff.
Now, let me make one thing clear. I'm declining to name the talent. I've used the name on this blog before and had my own thoughts about him or her before Thanksgiving. I also am not a big fan of bridge burning, but people have asked what happened on Thanksgiving. So now I'm telling, with as much decorum as I can.
I won't let one (or two) bad apples, or misunderstandings, or whatever, ruin things.
And I will also tell you that it was not Mike Quick - the "dean" of high school journalists around the tri-state area, and a guy who has come on with us whenever we have asked. Something tells me Mike knew we weren't too happy with what transpired.
OK, I've told the story. And so it goes. We'll no doubt see MSG again, and jockey for position, and try to make the best of it. But I've tried to treat them, the writers, and fellow radio announcers with the highest of respect.
That needs to be a two-way street.
Worth Watching Again (With VIDEO)
Still amazing. Nicely called without being over the top by Joe Buck and Troy Aikman. I also heard Bill Hillgrove's call on the Steelers Radio Network. Nice.
The link is here.
The Steelers (7-7) need to beat the Ravens tomorrow and get help to make the playoffs.
The link is here.
The Steelers (7-7) need to beat the Ravens tomorrow and get help to make the playoffs.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Whatever Is Your Taste for Some Christmas Music (With VIDEO)
Fa la la la la and so on. Chestnuts roasting on an open fire.
All good, but not where I'm going. Take your pick:
Do They Know it's Christmas? My god, what a time warp it is!
Or "Fairytale of New York"
Enjoy your Christmas Day, however you spend it.
All good, but not where I'm going. Take your pick:
Do They Know it's Christmas? My god, what a time warp it is!
Or "Fairytale of New York"
Enjoy your Christmas Day, however you spend it.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
For Greenwich Hockey Fans (with VIDEO)
There will be a few changes to our schedule - much to my dismay.
We will not be calling Monday's game at 3:45 between Greenwich and Trinity Catholic. We also won't be calling the game on 1/18 between Greenwich and Trumbull.
Conflicts and such. Funny how these things go.
I'll post a new schedule when it's complete.
But now you're getting to some of the root of what really grinds my gears. And that's all I have to say about that.
Here's another guy that got no respect (link here).
We will not be calling Monday's game at 3:45 between Greenwich and Trinity Catholic. We also won't be calling the game on 1/18 between Greenwich and Trumbull.
Conflicts and such. Funny how these things go.
I'll post a new schedule when it's complete.
But now you're getting to some of the root of what really grinds my gears. And that's all I have to say about that.
Here's another guy that got no respect (link here).
My Christmas Wish
It's easier said than done. Sure, I'd like material things, like a new iPod, a camera, and such, but that's just not happening this year.
No, my Christmas wish - the thing I want more than anything - is what anybody would want. I wish - no, pray - for happiness for my son. He deserves it.
Yet, this is where he gets troubling. You see, Sean is generally a happy little boy. He is also carrying a monstrous burden on those small shoulders. He's hurting inside, and do I really need to say why? I recently heard him say "divorce" for the first time, and it stung a little. He'd like to see his parents back together.
Then there's that other thing. He also worries that he's losing me. Why? Sean loves his daddy. I'm not saying that with any sense of arrogance. It's what I know. Sean wants his daddy to be happy, and healthy. I couldn't tell you if I'm healthy thanks to the healthcare in this country. It's quite likely that I soon won't have health insurance.
As for being happy, I sit here on Christmas Eve with pleasant thoughts of the many good things that happened in 2009. Trips to Richmond (TWICE!), Aberdeen/Baltimore, Boston, and Reading helped satiate my traveling needs. Making new friends, seeing old friends, and knowing of their love kept me warm. Even sticking my toe back into the pool of the relationship world, while often frustrating and sad, gave me hope.
There were Paul McCartney and Mount Saint Mary. There were Dave Matthews and the Cardinals. There was the Renegades. There were the Steelers and Yankees - WORLD CHAMPIONS!
I woke up every day, survived, and lived to tell about it the next morning.
There was "Exit 55."
There was promise (and yes, disappointment). That's life.
I kept moving forward.
Now, if a real job could just be found, or a combination of things that would help me pay off the car, and pay the bills, then the picture would look a lot better. I'm not greedy and yes, with that could mean the end of radio for me. I've thought about that. It's the sacrifice that I would need to make.
Sometimes it's not easy to let the bastards get me down. If you only knew. If I could tell the complete story. If only.
Yet I have love, from so many people. If I'm wrong, then I'm naive.
I have Sean. Even if I won't have him tomorrow.
So for Sean to be happy, I have to be happy as well. It's a process, and it often looks/sounds/reads like I'm not, but I'm OK, and I'll get better.
That's my wish. I also wish all of you the best, not just for tomorrow, but for every day.
I thank you for reading (and to those who listen), and for putting up with me. I'm humbled by it more than you can ever know.
Merry Christmas, one and all.
No, my Christmas wish - the thing I want more than anything - is what anybody would want. I wish - no, pray - for happiness for my son. He deserves it.
Yet, this is where he gets troubling. You see, Sean is generally a happy little boy. He is also carrying a monstrous burden on those small shoulders. He's hurting inside, and do I really need to say why? I recently heard him say "divorce" for the first time, and it stung a little. He'd like to see his parents back together.
Then there's that other thing. He also worries that he's losing me. Why? Sean loves his daddy. I'm not saying that with any sense of arrogance. It's what I know. Sean wants his daddy to be happy, and healthy. I couldn't tell you if I'm healthy thanks to the healthcare in this country. It's quite likely that I soon won't have health insurance.
As for being happy, I sit here on Christmas Eve with pleasant thoughts of the many good things that happened in 2009. Trips to Richmond (TWICE!), Aberdeen/Baltimore, Boston, and Reading helped satiate my traveling needs. Making new friends, seeing old friends, and knowing of their love kept me warm. Even sticking my toe back into the pool of the relationship world, while often frustrating and sad, gave me hope.
There were Paul McCartney and Mount Saint Mary. There were Dave Matthews and the Cardinals. There was the Renegades. There were the Steelers and Yankees - WORLD CHAMPIONS!
I woke up every day, survived, and lived to tell about it the next morning.
There was "Exit 55."
There was promise (and yes, disappointment). That's life.
I kept moving forward.
Now, if a real job could just be found, or a combination of things that would help me pay off the car, and pay the bills, then the picture would look a lot better. I'm not greedy and yes, with that could mean the end of radio for me. I've thought about that. It's the sacrifice that I would need to make.
Sometimes it's not easy to let the bastards get me down. If you only knew. If I could tell the complete story. If only.
Yet I have love, from so many people. If I'm wrong, then I'm naive.
I have Sean. Even if I won't have him tomorrow.
So for Sean to be happy, I have to be happy as well. It's a process, and it often looks/sounds/reads like I'm not, but I'm OK, and I'll get better.
That's my wish. I also wish all of you the best, not just for tomorrow, but for every day.
I thank you for reading (and to those who listen), and for putting up with me. I'm humbled by it more than you can ever know.
Merry Christmas, one and all.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Redonkulous Christmas Lights! (With VIDEO)
I'm hoping to go see this before they get taken down for the season.
A cap tip to my friend Jay Verzi at Hudson Valley Talk Radio. The display is located at 8 Patrick Drive, LaGrangeville, NY 12540, and their website is here. The link to the video is here.
A cap tip to my friend Jay Verzi at Hudson Valley Talk Radio. The display is located at 8 Patrick Drive, LaGrangeville, NY 12540, and their website is here. The link to the video is here.
Yankees Highlights (With VIDEO)
In case you might have forgotten, the New York Yankees are still the 2009 World Champions. Here's a little highlight montage to relive the glory (and the link is here).
And a hat tip to River Ave. Blues.
This one is pretty good also (link).
And a hat tip to River Ave. Blues.
This one is pretty good also (link).
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Fenway Park Hosts Its First Hockey Game
It was a prep school affair that will be remembered as the first hockey game at Fenway Park - prior to the Winter Classic between the Bruins and Flyers on January 1st.
Taft beat Avon Old Farms 9-5. However, and I think this is a shame, it was only an exhibition game. Additionally, the reason the teams played there is because a parent from each squad put up enough money to pay off the $30,000 fee to rent the ice. Would it have hurt the NHL and Fenway Park to maybe host the prep game for a limited amount - in a gesture of good will towards youth sports?
Still the prep school folks could enjoy the cash, so whatever. It still looks cool, and I'll be there on January 2nd for the Boston Bruins AT&T Legends Classic, and am hoping to get a media credential so we can play some interviews on "The Press Box."
Taft beat Avon Old Farms 9-5. However, and I think this is a shame, it was only an exhibition game. Additionally, the reason the teams played there is because a parent from each squad put up enough money to pay off the $30,000 fee to rent the ice. Would it have hurt the NHL and Fenway Park to maybe host the prep game for a limited amount - in a gesture of good will towards youth sports?
Still the prep school folks could enjoy the cash, so whatever. It still looks cool, and I'll be there on January 2nd for the Boston Bruins AT&T Legends Classic, and am hoping to get a media credential so we can play some interviews on "The Press Box."
Big Ben and His 503 Yards
A mighty clutch performance by Big Ben, after Mike Tomlin went all "Belichick" with that onsides kick.
Were the Steelers lucky? I think Tomlin was lucky that Roethlisberger (and Mike Wallace) bailed him out.
Do you want to put Ben's performance into perspective? Allow Behind the Steel Curtain to tell you about the 10th highest passing yardage day in NFL history.
Were the Steelers lucky? I think Tomlin was lucky that Roethlisberger (and Mike Wallace) bailed him out.
Do you want to put Ben's performance into perspective? Allow Behind the Steel Curtain to tell you about the 10th highest passing yardage day in NFL history.
The Melkman Has Been Delivered!
Never was a huge Melky fan, and thought either he or Cano had to go.
From Tyler Kepner's Twitter page:
I loved when the Yankees first got Vazauez, but then he "EPIC FAILED" in New York. Let's see how it goes the second time.
As for Melky, I'm sure all Yankees fans thank him for his time, and his sometimes very clutch play. Good luck in Atlanta.
UPDATE: Mark Feinsand confirms it, and adds to what I was thinking...the potential for the return of Johnny Damon, now that Melky is gone.
From Tyler Kepner's Twitter page:
Javier Vazquez traded to Yanks for Melky Cabrera, Mike Dunn and a prospect. Yanks also get LH reliever Boone Logan. Tremendous deal for NYY.OK, then. I haven't been able to confirm the deal yet, but Kepner is a very solid reporter, so this seems like good info.
Since Yanks traded Vazquez after 2004 ALCS, he has over 1000 innings and over 1000 strikeouts. Only other pitcher to do it: Johan Santana.
I loved when the Yankees first got Vazauez, but then he "EPIC FAILED" in New York. Let's see how it goes the second time.
As for Melky, I'm sure all Yankees fans thank him for his time, and his sometimes very clutch play. Good luck in Atlanta.
UPDATE: Mark Feinsand confirms it, and adds to what I was thinking...the potential for the return of Johnny Damon, now that Melky is gone.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Apparently John Mayer Thinks He's Better Than Us
John, dude. You're a Connecticut guy. A fairly talented musician whom I spent precious pennies on to go see (but then again, I was there to see Ben Folds). You could pretty much be with any woman you want. And you're funny.
In other words, you "get it."
But then again, you might tweet that I'm using a "dumb" expression.
Over on his Twitter page today, Johnny Jam Jam wrote the following:
Or is he just trying to tell us all that he's smarter than us?
"Just sayin.'"
John, would you have said the same thing about any other decade, be it "radical", "cool", "tubular", "awesome", or any other slang/vernacular? Stop looking so freaking arrogant. To quote another phrase: "you're better than that."
No seriously. I've defended the guy, but he's coming off a little (no, a lot) precious here.
This could be a moment in which I will authorize the use of "shut up and sing."
By the way, since we're rocking (hmmm...another slang term of late) entertainment thoughts, let me add an "RIP" to Brittany Murphy, dead of a heart attack early today at the age of just 32. I think "Clueless" was one of the cooler guilty pleasures of the 90's, and Murphy was a huge part of that.
In other words, you "get it."
But then again, you might tweet that I'm using a "dumb" expression.
Over on his Twitter page today, Johnny Jam Jam wrote the following:
Let me be the first to say it: the 2000s was the dumbest decade in recorded historyI'm fairly certain more strokes of genius will follow. Of course, the first decade of the 21st Century was the one in which we were introduced to John Mayer. That would be dumb, no? Is "no" 21st century dumb also? Was his concert in 2007 in Hartford "like a car crash?" Perhaps, although I think part of my life was by that night (obviously). Was his relationship with Jennifer Aniston an "epic fail?"
You may not appreciate it now, but in the next 2-4 years the true dumbness of the decade will age like a fine, insipid wine.
Dumb: "It's like a car crash, you can't look away," a crude attempt at justifying having terrible tastes in entertainment.
Dumb: "Epic fail," a phrase used to make fun of someone's failed attempts, written by people living in their parents' basements.
Dumb: "Just Saying." A phrase meant to divorce one's self from responsibility for having a cheap laugh at someone's expense.
"Hot mess," "train wreck," cutesy combined celebrity couple names, "TMI," Feigned shock, Sentences that begin with "bitch."
Or is he just trying to tell us all that he's smarter than us?
"Just sayin.'"
John, would you have said the same thing about any other decade, be it "radical", "cool", "tubular", "awesome", or any other slang/vernacular? Stop looking so freaking arrogant. To quote another phrase: "you're better than that."
No seriously. I've defended the guy, but he's coming off a little (no, a lot) precious here.
This could be a moment in which I will authorize the use of "shut up and sing."
By the way, since we're rocking (hmmm...another slang term of late) entertainment thoughts, let me add an "RIP" to Brittany Murphy, dead of a heart attack early today at the age of just 32. I think "Clueless" was one of the cooler guilty pleasures of the 90's, and Murphy was a huge part of that.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Line of the Day
From "Scrubs":
"...no one understands how important sex is better than someone who isn't having any."
You won't understand the context, and I'm not asking you too. I just thought it was an ironic, funny line at the end of a good episode, called "My Dirty Secret."
Now let's see how everybody goes and misinterprets this one!
"...no one understands how important sex is better than someone who isn't having any."
You won't understand the context, and I'm not asking you too. I just thought it was an ironic, funny line at the end of a good episode, called "My Dirty Secret."
Now let's see how everybody goes and misinterprets this one!
No Tears For Johnny
I didn't like it when Johnny Damon came to the Yankees. I mean, one of Boston's "idiots" with the Bombers? Yet he won me over with his play and the way he adapted to New York. He did so very early on in the his first season, reminding me that once you're on the team that I root for, you get my support.
Even for players for drive me crazy (see: Cano, Robinson and Delivers, The Melkman).
So as the 2009 season went along, I heard more about Damon's wanting to remain with the Yankees. Of course, he had a huge moment in the World Series (arguably an all-time moment), and the talk began that indeed Johnny would be back.
With the addition of Curtis Granderson and yesterday, Nick Johnson, it seems that someone else will say "Here's Johnny!"
Yes, it's business. That's what is sad about baseball. Fans get screwed; nothing new there. But let us - once again - take a look at who Johnny Damon's agent is!
Sing along, everyone!
Scott Boras! Yes, that's right! Arguably the worst...person...in...baseball...if not ALL of professional sports. Oh I get it - Damon is the player and the player can stand up (a la Alex Rodriguez) and tell Satan Boras to "suck it" (or perhaps use other words). Now I'm sure Scott is a great guy and all, and he'd be fun to grab a beer with, while listening to him settle another $148 million dollar contract via cell phone as he drives his Porsche through downtown La-La Land, but when it comes to business, he's dirt.
Maybe, just maybe, Johnny has got himself a better deal somewhere else. And sure, he needs the money (because that extra million means so much!). But Damon was working on becoming a legend in New York. The lower seats in right had become "Damon's Deck" in the same way that Boston has the "Pesky Pole." While he can carry his legacy, he now leaves for better days.
If he returns, great. If not: best wishes, Johnny. And thanks.
Even for players for drive me crazy (see: Cano, Robinson and Delivers, The Melkman).
So as the 2009 season went along, I heard more about Damon's wanting to remain with the Yankees. Of course, he had a huge moment in the World Series (arguably an all-time moment), and the talk began that indeed Johnny would be back.
With the addition of Curtis Granderson and yesterday, Nick Johnson, it seems that someone else will say "Here's Johnny!"
Yes, it's business. That's what is sad about baseball. Fans get screwed; nothing new there. But let us - once again - take a look at who Johnny Damon's agent is!
Sing along, everyone!
Scott Boras! Yes, that's right! Arguably the worst...person...in...baseball...if not ALL of professional sports. Oh I get it - Damon is the player and the player can stand up (a la Alex Rodriguez) and tell Satan Boras to "suck it" (or perhaps use other words). Now I'm sure Scott is a great guy and all, and he'd be fun to grab a beer with, while listening to him settle another $148 million dollar contract via cell phone as he drives his Porsche through downtown La-La Land, but when it comes to business, he's dirt.
Maybe, just maybe, Johnny has got himself a better deal somewhere else. And sure, he needs the money (because that extra million means so much!). But Damon was working on becoming a legend in New York. The lower seats in right had become "Damon's Deck" in the same way that Boston has the "Pesky Pole." While he can carry his legacy, he now leaves for better days.
If he returns, great. If not: best wishes, Johnny. And thanks.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
A Small list of Linky Dinks
Joe Posnanski comes at us with an interesting thought. The basis of his post is to defend Tim Raines for the Hall of Fame (rightfully so), but in the process, he points out some really fascinating facts from Bill James - particularly that Roy White - ROY WHITE - might have been a better player than Jim Rice!
I can hear the chowda exploding all over Bahston now! (by the way, that's "chowder" and "Boston").
Now all of this stuff is too sabermetric-driven for me, but again...Roy White!? I love it!
(Aside to Tim Parry...there are punch lines here, no?)
Via Tim and the Danbury News-Times, I found out that Hat City is taking another stab at hockey. Yes, this will be the fourth try. Let's hope they stay.
I've got to get ready for GHS Hockey, as the Cardinals take on West Haven tonight at the Dorothy Hamill Rink. Game time is 8:00 - listen live on WGCH.
I can hear the chowda exploding all over Bahston now! (by the way, that's "chowder" and "Boston").
Now all of this stuff is too sabermetric-driven for me, but again...Roy White!? I love it!
(Aside to Tim Parry...there are punch lines here, no?)
Via Tim and the Danbury News-Times, I found out that Hat City is taking another stab at hockey. Yes, this will be the fourth try. Let's hope they stay.
I've got to get ready for GHS Hockey, as the Cardinals take on West Haven tonight at the Dorothy Hamill Rink. Game time is 8:00 - listen live on WGCH.
Warm Thoughts - The Gades in 2010
On a day when it won't get out of the 20's, how about this?
The Hudson Valley Renegades 2010 schedule!
And a new manager for the Gades in 2010 as well - a familiar face to many in Fishkill. In fact, it's a whole new coaching staff.
As for my role with the Gades, all I can tell you is that I'd like to be back again. I have a new polo shirt to wear, for one thing. It's all up to the team, and based on where I am when next June rolls around. Yet with my having made so many friends up there (Geoff, Rick, and so on), I'd like to be a big part of the team.
We'll see, but it sure is nice to think about warm weather on this hideously cold day.
The Hudson Valley Renegades 2010 schedule!
And a new manager for the Gades in 2010 as well - a familiar face to many in Fishkill. In fact, it's a whole new coaching staff.
As for my role with the Gades, all I can tell you is that I'd like to be back again. I have a new polo shirt to wear, for one thing. It's all up to the team, and based on where I am when next June rolls around. Yet with my having made so many friends up there (Geoff, Rick, and so on), I'd like to be a big part of the team.
We'll see, but it sure is nice to think about warm weather on this hideously cold day.
I Hate These Stories
Though I'm not currently reporting on a daily basis for WGCH, I still broadcast games and appear on the station. So it was with great sadness that I read of Paul Burke, the Greenwich High School boys lacrosse coach, being found guilty of drunken driving in November.
The Greenwich Time reported an update last week.
As is their wont, Greenwich Roundup was quite critical of the Time.
I'm just waiting for Mr. Uber-Scribe (Bill Clark) to check in with his oh-gee-isn't-it-funny-I'm-calling-them-the Yellowich Time take (with the words normally in yellow).
I know Paul Burke and he has been decent and pleasant to me for years. That's always enough of a barometer, along with how people treat my son (and Paul always got passing grades on that). I'll go so far as to admit that I like him - we were in the same press box for years, and I covered his lacrosse teams, and also saw him when he was the JV basketball coach.
I reported the story of the recent charges when it broke about a year ago, and Paul knew that I was doing my job. He understood and thought I was fair. That's all I try to be.
I guess I did what needed to be done; It obviously wasn't fun for me. Now as to what wasn't being reported - sure, I had heard of other items, but it was all "whispers" and such. Nothing firm, and GHS radio broadcasts aren't the time for investigative reporting. They're for play-by-play, and we've always believed in reporting what is on the field.
With his conviction, Paul is looking at jail time. I feel for him, and hope he gets the needed help to conquer whatever demons loom. I know of the outrage over his coaching impressionable individuals, and I understand those concerns. I wish all concerned parties a lot of luck as they deal with this situation.
Most of all, I wish Paul Burke well to right whatever is wrong.
The Greenwich Time reported an update last week.
As is their wont, Greenwich Roundup was quite critical of the Time.
I'm just waiting for Mr. Uber-Scribe (Bill Clark) to check in with his oh-gee-isn't-it-funny-I'm-calling-them-the Yellowich Time take (with the words normally in yellow).
I know Paul Burke and he has been decent and pleasant to me for years. That's always enough of a barometer, along with how people treat my son (and Paul always got passing grades on that). I'll go so far as to admit that I like him - we were in the same press box for years, and I covered his lacrosse teams, and also saw him when he was the JV basketball coach.
I reported the story of the recent charges when it broke about a year ago, and Paul knew that I was doing my job. He understood and thought I was fair. That's all I try to be.
I guess I did what needed to be done; It obviously wasn't fun for me. Now as to what wasn't being reported - sure, I had heard of other items, but it was all "whispers" and such. Nothing firm, and GHS radio broadcasts aren't the time for investigative reporting. They're for play-by-play, and we've always believed in reporting what is on the field.
With his conviction, Paul is looking at jail time. I feel for him, and hope he gets the needed help to conquer whatever demons loom. I know of the outrage over his coaching impressionable individuals, and I understand those concerns. I wish all concerned parties a lot of luck as they deal with this situation.
Most of all, I wish Paul Burke well to right whatever is wrong.
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