Eazy Duz It

Is it possible the Browns managed to get a third potential 1st round pick? It appears they did when they traded back into the 2nd round to select Eric "Eazy-E' Wright a cornerback out of UNLV. Eazy had some off field issues early in his college career at USC, where he was a standout on some awfully good Trojan teams. He was arrested for a date rape drug and police found 136 ecstasy pills in his apartment, which he shared with other students. No charges were ever issued. However, USC decided to uphold his suspension.

Wright left and went to UNLV where he sat out a year to regain eligibility. He played in 9 games and had 3 picks. More importantly he lived in the LV for 2 years and never had any sort of additional problems. Meaning even in Sin City trouble couldn't find him. He appears to be a good hearted kid, he attended a Catholic High School and according to all who knew him prior and after the allegations seem completely out of character.

Draft Guru Mel Kiper said he had Wright as the 42 over all pick, the Browns took him at 53. Kiper's ranking was based on his character issues and all that means to an NFL organization, especially with issues like Pac-Man Jones' suspension and Bengals spending more nights in Cincinnati jails than Otis did in Mayberry's. He went on to say that without these off the field issues Wright would have been a mid 1st round pick; right up there with the other top CBs.

Additional Notes:

*Really couldn't Troy Smith have gone someplace where I could have rooted a little for his team?

*I am extremely proud of the Browns organization, not just for the draft but also for their class. The team made a point Friday to call Brady Quinn and let him know that they would not be taking him with the 3rd pick, so that he could prepare himself for that.

*I never thought I'd say this but I was extremely impressed with Keyshawn Johnson as a draft analyst. Not many current players, particularly those with egos like Keyshawn, make statements about how their team will have to draft a player at their position to replace them soon.

*I hate that once again the media has chosen to focus on what a talented yet jerk of a receiver's attitude will have on his new team. I will boycott Cold Pizza all summer if I have to see pictures of Moss riding an exercise bike in his driveway.

*How about this kid from American Samoa by way of the University of Hawaii the Browns took? He's a Defensive End and looks a little like The Rock to me. "Do you smellellellellellellellelllelelel, what Melila Purcell is cooking?"

*Will you watch Colts games with anymore interest now that they have drafted 3 Buckeyes in one year? I know I will.

*Are you tired yet of the fans that go to Radio City Music Hall, (mostly Giants and Jets fans), who boo every pick that isn't a RB, QB, or WR?

*Would someone please tell Chris Berman that people hate him and are tired of him not being able to just say certain teams names like a normal human being? I want to pour hot wax in my ears to seal them off every time I hear, "The Ray Dahs" or "the New York Football Giants."I mean c'mon it's every freakin' time!

*On a CAVS note: Do you realize that if they win tonight according to our friends at God Hates Cleveland Sports, it will be only the 2nd time a Cleveland team has swept a playoff series in 34 tries?

*Kov, if you click in the circle that says other, you can put your name as the commenter rather than in the script.

*Finally, out of the 3 players in the photo above, which draft pick gets injured first at next weeks rookie camp?

Quinn the Eskimo (The mighty Quinn)

Here's how it played out, as the draft wore on, we kept looking ahead at who needed a QB, and who the Browns would need to get ahead of to get Quinn before it got to a team who actually wanted him. This got more exciting when ESPN reported that the Browns were making calls to see what it would cost them. As the situation progressed, we kept going back and forth listening to ESPN and to WKNR. Things got a little more nerve racking when Kenny Rhoda and Tony Rizzo started saying how this was the longest it has ever taken a GM to come out of the war room and talk to the media about their first round pick, leading them to believe they were really trying hard and something must be going on.

As the time was running out on Dallas, with KC who must be trading Trent Green to Miami, (If there is another explanation for them passing on Brady I'd love to hear it), possibly in need of a QB Rick gives up and decides they must want too much. It literally happened like this, "I don't even want him now!" instantly the red trade sign flashed on the screen and was replaced by the Browns helmet. I turned around looked at him in amazement and declared, "You are the Anti-Christ." All of you Browns backing Notre Dame lovers can thank him for deciding to go the other way and not want Quinn. Now if he can just pray for Quinn and Thomas TO get hurt.

As many know I love Charlie Frye, but this I can accept. I like Frye because he's a Zip, but I wanted him to succeed so badly because he grew up a Browns fan his hero was Bernie Kosar, well it appears the same can be said for Quinn which will make him more than just a jersey to me. I can't imagine these two guys,, (Frye & Quinn), doing anything but working their asses off to turn this franchise around.

I believe that the Browns gave up a fair amount to land Quinn. They moved up 14 spots giving up their 2nd round pick and next year's 1st round pick. That pick might not have matter much to Crennel and Savage, figuring that one if not both of them are gone if they have another disappointing season. Besides if they are marginally better next year, they don't get a top 5 pick. This year they get 2 guys rated in the top 5 and only have to pay one of them a contract that reflects it. Savage was impressive last year moving down to get Kamerion Wimbley who was better than Baltimore's pick Haloti Ngata. This year he was incredible getting this deal done.

I cannot imagine the roller coaster Quinn went through with his emotions. I hope things turned out the best for everyone. All he has to do is play during this contract in a way that reflects where he should have been taken and the Browns will be throwing more money at him in a few years. While the Dolphins are afraid to take the keys to Miami away from Marino, Quinn has an opportunity to step up and own this city.

Ev'rybody's building the big ships and the boats,

Some are building monuments,
Others, jotting down notes,
Ev'rybody's in despair,
Ev'ry girl and boy
But when Quinn the Eskimo gets here,
Ev'rybody's gonna jump for joy.
Come all without, come all within,
You'll not see nothing like the mighty Quinn.

Average Joe

With the 3rd overall pick the Cleveland Browns selected Joe Thomas Left Tackle from Wisconsin. Alright I love this pick, scratch what I said earlier, this is the smartest pick they could have made. How do you help the quarterback and the running game and the defense? You go after the team's biggest need since 1999, a solid offensive lineman. Here's a guy if he lives up to his potential can anchor the line for the next 10-15 years. This is the selection you knew in your head was the best choice all along, just not the sexiest. It will be hard to compare his stats against the other first round picks, but I believe his contribution will be easily recognizable to those of us who live and die each Sunday with the guys in the orange hats.

Probably safe to say Charlie Frye likes this pick the most, and not just because it should keep him from being on his back so often. There was so much focus from ESPN on Brady Quinn and the Browns it seemed like a done deal. Funny I was at Jerk's watching the draft with him and Augie just after this pick Rick goes, "Oh he was probably a Bengals fan anyway." I agreed I thought the same thing, not 2 seconds later they flash, what is soon to be a famous, photo of Quinn at 4 years old in a Hutch Kosar costume. That hurt!

The Pick of Destiny

I was going to write a post yesterday about the draft, but news of having to go to this 1st Communion practice took the fun out of it. After 4 months of thinking about this, I still have no clue what I want them to do. I've said A Pete all along, but an injury prone player on this team is a match made in Hell. I have also said that a QB is a huge mistake, they are not yet ready to plug in a good one and succeed. Although, I would say Quinn is more prepared to play in the NFL that Russell. I like the idea of a local boy being the QB, but they have this already, and I am not ready to give up on Chaz Fryzzle. And, they still don't have a veteran QB in place to help either one of them.

Joe Thomas, is probably the player they most need, but it always takes a couple years for an O-lineman to get up to speed with the NFL game. They just aren't ready for guys weighing 280 that move like receivers, even Orlando Pace took a few seasons.

Calvin Johnson, well blah blah blah...I am starting to sound like Bruce McClimmans and Joe Pete in the Star Beacon; write a half a page story without really saying anything, then finishing with the same battle cry the moron at the Clubhouse had last week who butted into our conversation, "Trade Down!" Should the Browns trade down YES! is it as easy as everyone thinks NO WAY!!! The third pick means millions of dollars more and waiting an extra year for a player to produce if he stinks because you can't afford to admit the mistake. Plus he is still on your salary cap. I now hope they trade down just so I can see the selection. At least the goof balls who were screaming, "Draft Troy Smith" have disappeared.

So I guess I need to be brave unlike local columnists and end this with who I would take. "Well, Sonja Henie is out, I'll take Danny Noonan." He's out of St. Copius of Northern... Seriously, I've been saying Adrian Peterson for months now, so I will stick with that. Jamal Lewis is only here for the season, and who knows what kind of production he will give anyway. The nice thing is the top 5 seem to be can't miss prospects, and either one could be an exciting contribution to the Brownies.

****Editor's Note If you missed this article in yesterday's Plain Dealer, you have to read it. The story is about how Dwight Clark told the Browns personnel department that they were going to take (5 time Pro Bowler), Richard Seymour. Well, Butch Davis and his underling Pete Garcia decided to blow that off and take "Big (waste of) Money" Gerard Warren, who has been to exactly zero Pro Bowls. Oh and he's in Denver now. Doesn't sound like this was a great start to the front office's realationship with their new dictator, err coach.

(Not So) Mean Mr. Mustard

I am sure most of you have been following the Odyssey vs. Stadium Mustard Saga very closely. We at ASO are glad to announce that the 46 day stand-off has come to an end. Stadium Mustard has given in to my demands and has finally accepted me as a friend on his myspace. I will celebrate by watching baseball and having some hot dogs over the weekend.

When asked to comment Stadium Mustard said, "Stadium Mustard is proud to be (Spungalo's) friend.

In response ASO Minister of Propaganda Jay B said, "Fact is Stadium Mustard doesn't realize how close he was to ASO declaring an all out Stadium Mustard boycott. If this failed provide the proper results or if he still refused to listen to reason phase two would have involved a public outcry to burn previously purchased bottles of Stadium Mustard in effigy at the new Lakeside baseball field in a similar fashion to disco records at Wrigley."

Many pundits believe that Jay B let too much information out of the bag. Plans that could
have been saved for what appears to be an escalating situation with A-1 Bold & Spicy.

ASO editor Scott Spence said, "I hope that Stay Mus and I can put this all behind us and begin a lasting peace that our great grandchildren will be able to enjoy "

My Brain is Hanging Upside Down

Mattie's final meet of the year was supposed to be a "fun meet" but there was more pressure than any of the others. Not all girls got ribbons or trophies, and for some reason they had 2 judges for each event for the first time all season. She finished 5th or 6th out of 13 girls. Pretty good considering she was 13th in vault.

Sleep Walk

Another weekend has come and gone, and I will agree with Rob, all things considered it wasa 4 out 5 stars. The one fact that hurts all weekends in the ratings system remains: they all come to an end. Well, not for Jay B , but that's another story for another time.

On Friday, Mattie had a pre-meet practice, (video to come soon) after which we immediate left for Canton, since she had to be at the event by 8:00am. This time however, we chose to stay at the Microtel by The Strip in Canton. A huge thank you to my cousin Stacy who got us an $80.00 a night suite for 25 bucks. My only regret was not being able to stay longer and take advantage of the amenities. Stacy gets the cousin of the week award, given to Donuts last week and usually reserved for Bellomo, for not only the great hook-up, but for showing up early in the morning to watch Mattingly compete. Afterwards we went to eat, and get a tour of her house, so I've checked that off my things to do in Akron list.

On the way down Friday evening, we stopped at Swenson's, which has become a bit of a tradition this year. We didn't stay and eat though, we took it to the Gorge Metropark. If you have never been here it is well worth the trip. Since it was getting dark we chose to only take a quick walk down to the falls, with a promise to stop back for the full hike on our return trip home. Here is a picture I snapped on the way back to the parking lot, this is above the falls at about 8:30:
Saturday after Mattie's meet, lunch, and the tour of Casa de Silva Karen dropped me off at Robbie T's. It was my first visit since he the card game the night he moved in and it is coming together nicely. Especially considering he has been sans transportation since day 2. We enjoyed a few back porch beers before retiring to much cooler basement for some barts (basement darts). Later Bollls picked us up and took us to the Clubhouse for some of my favorite wings, (behind the Locker Room, but ahead of the Crows Nest), and some BL's. We left around midnight and returned to Rob's for more barts. This time for money. I won two games the whole day, the two for cash. What can I say? I'm a gamer, and I don't fear the bulls.

Sunday saw a lazy afternoon. Both Rob and I chose to nap during the 4th quarter of the boring CAVS game. Not dozed off mind you, it was a conscious decision that sleep would be more enjoyable than the game. Stemmy returned from softball practice at 11:30 and made a conscious decision that sleep would be more enjoyable than anything else, until about 4:00.

Karen picked me up around the time Stemmy returned to the land of the living, and we made our way to the Gorge. We decided while on the trail to take the full 3.2 mile hike since Mattie wasn't begging to be carried, or whining about her feet hurting. The last time I did this was with Karen, it was the day of the Kentucky vs. Utah NCAA Championship in 1998. Don't worry guys, I was home before tip. I have also gone to the Gorge before as part of a college class, and it is a special place for me as Lambda Chi as well.

In the summer of 1998 I lavaliered Karen there on her birthday, get your minds out of the gutter it's like pinning a girl, on second thought maybe that's a bad choice of words too... It was really funny, the park was actually closed and we didn't know it, but we parked down the street, and walked in, and down the path to the falls. We made our way down some wooden steps where a bench was and just sat for a while, she had no clue what was about to happen, all of a sudden in the darkness we could hear a large group of guys moving quickly and speaking quietly. Karen understandably got a little scared and my whistling real loud to alert them of our presence did nothing to relax her. She was too busy being nervous and thinking what the hell was I going to do about these punks who were now headed down the steps toward us, (she didn't say this, but I know the look). Finally, my fraternity brothers got close enough for her to recognize them, and without a word they huddled around us on the landing, got down on a knee and sang our Sweetheart song. The guys really came trough for me, they could have just said, "Sorry Scott park's closed, the moose out front should have told you." But they didn't they saw my car their and proceeded risking arrest to make sure this happened the way I wanted it too.

One thing that was really irritating was the number of plastic bottles and paper cups strewn about the path. they weren't everywhere, but there were enough that it was noticeable. What I don't get is how people could take the time to go there because of how beautiful and peaceful it is, and then throw their McDonald's cup into the rocks, or under a tree somewhere. Thank God for people like the couple we passed along the way who actually were there, as visitors mind you, with a trash bag picking up whatever litter they could.

Anyway here are a few of the pictures from the weekend:Mattie standing in the Mary Campbell Cave

This is the biggest fall, it is also used as a source of clean electricity, which is why it looks man-made.

One of the many narrow pathways encountered on the "hard" trail

Sloppy Joe

It was just 11 games ago when I told Jay B I knew I would end up hating Joe Borowski. I was waiting to unveil his new nickname, and I was certain it wouldn't take long. I will officially now only refer to this guy as Joe Brioschi, because that is exactly what I need when he comes in to finish a game.

Those of you unfamiliar with this substance: For over 125 years, Brioschi has been providing heartburn treatment the world over, using only all natural ingredients to relieve heartburn symptoms and indigestion, without unnecessary additives, preservatives, or harsh chemical compounds.

Brioschi Effervescent Antacid provides all natural heartburn relief in just 10 seconds with less ingredients. And less ingredients mean less chance of a harmful drug interaction.

I used to eat this stuff like candy when I was a kid. You're suppose to dissolve it in water, and drink it. I would just eat a handful of it at a time. MMM...Fizzy goodness.

Knowing Brioschi would blow a game soon, the only question I have left is why didn't that A-HOLE Yankee fans Boo A-rod? Oh that's right they love him this week. I may hate Yankee fan as much as Steeler fan, as least Steeler fan loves his team.

The Next 30 Years

Saturday night Ashtabula Chamber of Commerce Czar, St. John football head coach, and local restaurant critic James Timonere celebrated his 30th birthday. He started the party early in the day for me when I read his letter in the Opine section of the Saturday Star Beacon, defending the campus style schools and reminding our City Solicitor it is his job to write and review legal language, not to decide where schools are built.

It was a fun night a lot of politics were discussed and then argued, freakin' Republicans ruin everything. We discussed JT mistakenly calling Bruce the server from "our" Applebee's the wrong name. Bruce had quite the man crush, and not the friendly kind, on him. If I remember the story right this led to him taking a picture down of Jim, Rob, and others down and stabbing it with a steak knife. I only know this tale second hand, I believe it happened after I left Akron, .

At one point early, which is how I remember it, Jim was talking about having a roller and if someone wanted to borrow it before their yard dried up to come get it. I looked at him, and when I had his attention, I nodded and said, "elbow marks!" He asked what the Hell I was talking about, I replied, "I was wondering why you needed a roller, why you didn't just go out there and roll around on the ground, but I realized you'd leave divots with your elbows."

The night took a turn for the worse when I typically spent 30 minutes telling a story about someone, because I was asked what they were up too. Couldn't help it there was a lot to the story, problem was it was like a river with many tributaries flowing into it, rather than just being linear with a definite beginning and end. Sorry for putting you all through that.

After being formally invited to Donut's house at least twice a year for the last 5 years, we finally made it. I have to say and not unexpectedly, Jim and Janice were excellent hosts. Thanks for keeping us on the guest list, and remember that 30 is the new 21, (only I am glad you didn't treat it the same).

Here are some other photos from the star studded gala...I know people in the back are hard to make out but starting with Karen's hair in the bottom left and moving clockwise you have: Will Anderson, Ticey, Tony Petrochello, Jim, Jamie, Mandy, Meghan, Janice, Justin, and Nardu.

Here you can see the chamber prez as he and Ward 4 councilman Matt Perry cutting a back room deal. Actually it's more likely Matt was just hiding from Narducci's inquisition into his street being paved, "I told him it's one Damn pothole, whaddaya want from me? Try filling it with pastina."

****Editor's note Jim is trying to give this bar away so he can build a smaller one in the opposite direction, Some have suggested it is only fair that he build 5 smaller bars throughout the basement, making it fair for those who like to stand by the pool table or sit on the couch. Rob you may want to inquire about this before you take out a support beam.

Retraction Matt Perry is the Ward 1 councilman.

Forever Young

Again I apologize, I didn't get my camera back until after 7 and decided to wait until tomorrow to post on Timonere's 30th. This post came to mind instead. If you watched today the Indians beat the White Sox 2-1. More importantly they had only one hit in the game, a lead-off double by Sizemore in the 1st.

After the game announcers Jim Donovan and Rick Manning compared it to a game the Tribe won on April 12, 1992. It was the first game of a double header against Boston, and Red Sox pitcher Matt Young threw a no hitter, only problem was since the Indians were ahead, at Municipal Stadium, in the 9th they didn't have to take their at bats. Therefore, Young didn't record 27 outs and was not credited with a no hitter.

I was at this game, I remember John Bleu being there and I was talking to Jerry about it and he was also there. I believe Silva was the 4th person, (Chris if you are reading this will you confirm or deny this?). I was going to try and find my ticket stub as proof, only we didn't have tickets. That year our baseball coach, Dom Iarocci, got the entire team season passes for General Admisssion, (all dates except opening day and 4th of July fireworks night), through the Greater Cleveland High School Athletic Association. We went to a bunch of games, always arriving right when gates opened, back when you could watch the visiting team BP, then would sprint to our seats right on the fence in Left Field. We also would take advantage of much more lenient rules on what was allowed into the stadium, boiling our hot dogs at home before the game, and bringing an empty container to fill with Stadium Mustard. I would carry a huge gym bag filled with gloves, thermoses, buns, sunflower seeds, Red Man and 2 liters of pop.

The Wahoos also won the second game of the double header, but for the life of me I can't remember who was pitching. I wanted to say Clemons vs. Nagy, but Jerry remembers Candiotti for some reason. I know I saw a Clemons vs. Nagy duel at some point but that may have been later in the summer. If anyone else remembers or knows of a way to look this up please let me know.

On a side note, Matt Young did pitch for the Tribe briefly the next year. He was 1-6 in 8 starts with a 5.21 ERA.

****Editor's note I am no longer a consumer of Stadium Mustard. I friended Stadium Mustard last week on myspace, after seeing him on Nolan's page. Thus far he has rebuked me. DAMN YOU STADIUM MUSTARD!!!

i told you to slow down.. #1

Since my coverage of Timonere's birthday has been delayed due to some drunk moron forgetting his camera at the party, I thought I would entertain you with this video. The driver of the car is Chris Moore, there are 2 more parts to this video on youtube so go check them out.

This video proves there is only one thing worse than getting a speeding ticket, getting a speeding ticket with your buddies in the car.

Shake n' Bake Chris

Chewbacca (What a Wookie)

This afternoon, since I couldn't get off the couch after the events of last nights visit to the Crows Nest and the Sons of Italy, Mattie and I watched Star Wars. Yes we are doing it the right way, starting with Episode IV A New Hope through Jedi, then watching the new trilogy, Episodes I-III after. I know this is going to lead to a hell of a lot of questions, but anything worth doing is worth doing right.

Two things always stand out as bothersome to me when I watch A New Hope.

1. Why do the stormtroopers wear armor when it doesn't seem to protect them from anything?

2. Why doesn't Chewbacca get a medal and a heroes reception at the end of the movie? Is the Alliance racist against Wookies? Even Hitler presented Jesse Owens with his gold Medal at the Berlin games in 1936. I mean C'mon he did just as much work, risked just as much, and was probably the one that talked Han into coming back to help Luke blow up the Death Star. Well at least he got to throw out this ceremonial first pitch.

Last night was the first time I ventured down to the basement of the Sons of Italy to check out the indoor Bocce court. I now know I have to actually get that membership. Until seeing this court and playing for myself, I had always said derogatory things about playing this way. "Hey, if its not over the street, into the bush, off the mulch it ain't Bocce." I stand corrected. I would like to get a team together to play in their league this summer, Kov are you in?

Turning Japanese

I was very close to continuing with posts that were actually relevant but I can't keep up the pace. I wanted to do a story today about how glad I was that all charges against the Duke Lacrosse players had been dropped, since I thought this was something that happened 6 months ago when there was no case.

Instead I decided it's time to shine the light on something that is actually important to our everyday lives: Daisuke Matsuzaka pitching against Ichiro Suzuki tonight in Fenway. From my understanding this event holds the weight of a Super Bowl back in the Land of the Rising Sun. I am interested to see this event, since I believe Ichiro is one of the best hitters ever in MLB. His ability to actually place the ball off the bat where he wants it is unrivaled. Dice-K I know little about other than the BoSox paid over a hundred million, (yeah keep whining about how the Yankees spend too much), to sign him.

My dilemma for the day is deciding who to root for. Due to the money spent part of my wants to see Matsuzaka fail, but in all actuality he seems like a kid that just loves playing the game and goofing around with his teammates, this I like. Ichiro usually seems too serious, like Tom Selleck's teammates in Mr. Baseball. I know it's a business and your job, but it's an awfully fun job. It's probably more likely that the Indians are in a Wild Card Race with Boston, but I can't let that affect how I feel about one at bat. So I guess I am pulling for Dice-K.

Now, I know that phony Red Sox fan Jerry, will be rooting for the pitcher, but how about the rest of you?

Perhaps more importantly does it bother you as a fan that the game is becoming more and more global? I love it, but I know not everyone feels this way.

****Editor's Note Not really sure where this fits in to all of this, but I sure hope that Eric Young is not meant to be the replacement for Harold Reynolds.

Barack Show

Yesterday I was asked to cover the Barack Obama appearance on Late Show with David Letterman. I was watching a movie so I TiVoed Dave, except when I went to watch it, it wasn't there. First thing this morning I got on YouTube, it had bee posted and removed already by the user. Not sure why, but I believe it has something to do with CBS' ownership rights of the program. I tried back a few minutes ago and someone else had posted the video.

Obama did really well, and I think his intelligence and sense of humor showed through at the same time. His responses were well thought out when needed to be and off the cuff funny when the opportunity presented itself. He even used humor to avoid answering questions about an Obama/Clinton or Clinton/Obama Democratic ticket, knowing it is too early for either to think about running for second place. Either way this possibility, (maybe even probability), has got to scare the hell out of the Republican Party. They may get Guliani to stand toe to toe with one of them, at least in their opinion, but its going to be a 2 on 1 fight.

My favorite part of the interview was when they were discussing what it is going to take to rebuild America's relations with the rest of the world, which have suffered due to this war. He said, "People outside of this country are expressing disappointment because they have high expectations for America. They want America to lead, they want America to lead through our values, through our ideals, through our examples. But they have high expectations of us because I think this country is still the last best hope on earth." It's responses like these that make me realize why I like him so much, I believe he is the candidate that can make us truly proud to be Americans again.

All that aside, I am ready to watch some freakin' Indians baseball tonight! No matter where they are playing. For those of you that turn to ASO for all your news, and I pray you don't exist, the Tribe was within one strike of an official win on Good Friday, that game was rescheduled as a double header the next day, then snowed out and the pattern continued through Monday. What was supposed to be a home series against the Anaheim Angels is being played in Milwaukee over the next 3 days, costing the Indians and more importantly the city of Cleveland hundreds of thousands in revenue.

War

Not to start another long drawn out debate on here but it's time to discuss what is going on in Iraq, and more importantly where I stand. First, I was among the millions who fell for the lies and misinformation given 4 years ago. Translation: I was for the war. This support didn't last too long. What's gone on in the Middle East in the last 5 years has gotten us no where. We still do not have Bin Laden, there were no WMD, and no Iraqi ties to al Qaeda. We captured Saddam, don't you feel safer now?

The whole idea had to of been dreamed up by complete know nothings. The Middle East dislikes us for two reasons, our support of Israel and our presence in their Holy Lands. Obviously invading these lands was the best thing we could do to stop the terrorists Morons. Terrorists who recruit more terrorists based on our being there. This war in Iraq has done nothing but create more terrorists.

I have wrestled with this for a while now. On one hand I want all of our soldiers home safe NOW, but on the other does pulling out tarnish the memories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice already? Meaning did they die for nothing then? I've decided it doesn't matter because there is no winning this war, not unless we just decide to kill everyone. The longer we are there, the stronger the hatred for us becomes, and there is not much you can do to stop people who are willing to strap bombs to themselves to blow up a building. What are you going to do kill them? They will die gladly and 5 more will replace them willing to die just as "gloriously." There is a civil war going on there that we have no business being a part of, it has gone on for centuries and no amount of mumbled words from George W. are going to stop it now.

Besides how many more soldiers have to die for nothing before we realize it's a lost cause? Bush fights wars like I play poker. I hope for a strong enough hand to win early, and when I have nothing after the flop, I keep throwing chips at it hoping I get lucky or the other guy gives up. I just can't give in though because I already have so much invested, my only solution is to lose more to prove I am not intimidated by the other player. But ultimately I lose rather than folding and regrouping for the next hand. Which is always certain too follow. The guys who have rotated back to the states are supposed to get 12 months state side before returning to duty in Iraq. The only problem is our military is so stretched so thin they are going back 2-3 months early. Yet, we may or may not be looking to invade Iran.

Anyway, I received bumper stickers in the mail today that look like the picture above. I made a small donation to MoveOn.org and they sent me 10 of them, so if any of you would like one just let me know and I will mail one out to you. Warning though, it will not be as easy as a magnetic yellow ribbon to put one on your car and make you feel like you've done something when you haven't.

An Easter KISS

Leaving for Canton today, not sure if I will have a chance to post tomorrow or not so wanted to wish everyone a Happy Easter.

The Grind

As I mentioned last night Jay and I made the trek yesterday to Willoughby to watch Grindhouse. Grindhouse is a term used in American Cinema to describe movie houses that played strictly B-movies in genres such as Blaxsploitation, Kung-Fu, and Spaghetti Western, typically in a matinee/double feature format. The Grindhouse movie itself recreates this experience. It is actually 2 full length films Planet Terror by Robert Rodriguez, (Sin City, From Dusk till Dawn, Desperado), and Death Proof from who else but Quentin Tarantino, (Pulp Fiction, Resevoir Dogs, Kill Bill Vol 1&2).
Planet Terror is a Zombie film which sees ex-Marilyn Manson arm candy Rose McGown as a Go-Go dancer that gets her leg eaten off by a zombie, only to be later replaced by a machine gun/rocket launcher. The movie is filled with over the top effects and comedic violence and gore.

Death Proof is about an ex-stunt man, played by Kurt Russel in what Jay and I believe to be his first "heel" role, who kills pretty girls with his reinforced stunt car. Q does it again making an ultra cool movie filled with an incredible soundtrack and dialogue you will try to memorize when it comes to HBO.

I am sure there are people out there that will not get how genius this concept is, they will see only the ridiculousness of the movies, never realizing that is exactly how they are supposed to look and feel.

The two movies are just a part of the experience though. The film begins with a trailer for a fake film called Machette. In between the movies are 3 more trailers including Werewolf Women of the SS directed by Rob Zombie, Thanksgiving directed by Eli Roth, and Don't!. These "previews" plus all of the other little added nuances made Grindhouse a must see at the theater experience. So do yourself a favor and get to the Grindhouse.

Master of Puppets

The best thing that could have happened to me today happened. Mattie and I were leaving the house so I could take her to Gramma's house, enabling Jay V and I to drive to Willoughby to enjoy the Matinee double feature Grindhouse. When we walked outside there it was the box with my returned Master's Portfolio. This time it was in on the first day "Early Birds" were accepted, which was the 2nd. Some of you may remember a mailing mix-up from back in December, that prevented this from being accomplished. I have my 30 Post Bachelor's credit hours, but had not confirred my actual degree. These 30 hours at least made me eligible for a continuing contract with Ashtabula Area City Schools, but not for the pay raise you receive with a Master's degree. More importantly, I had put a lot of work into it and it stunk not to be able to say I had my MA. Plus the worries that something would change with requirements from last winter to this spring. Alas, that is all behind me now. Here is a photo of my portfolio.

I will try and spend more time on Grindhouse tomorrow, as for now Karen is waiting for me to finally watch The Pursuit of Happyness.

Lose Control

I made no excuses for the football game, but last night OSU beat themselves. All year I said they could win it all because they played great D, had a big man inside, and had excellent 3 point shooting. Last night those threes weren't there, it happens and there's nothing you can do about it. Florida had absolutely no answer for Oden once he got the ball inside, or really any of the Bucks guards when they drove. But you can't keep scoring 2 when your opponent is scoring 3.

I will say I am glad that the Gators won, if it couldn't be Ohio State. Only because all those kids chose to stay in school another year and see if they could accomplish what they did last night. Hopefully, the Buckeyes learned something from that. especially Oden. Although I've heard he's said before he wasn't coming out until he could dominate in the NBA, which he is not yet ready to do yet. They could really dominate next year, especially with the recruits coming in.

I don't put too much stock in this Championship for Florida anyway. They didn't beat any powerhouse programs, unless you want to count UCLA based on 40 years ago. There was no strong Duke, UNC, UConn, or Kentucky teams.

Kentucky will probably be there next year when Billy Donovan is their coach. I say he's crazy to leave, but he will always be in the shadow of the football program, at Kentucky basketball is king. It'll be interesting.

Indians Fever

The weekend went pretty well. Jay and I stopped at "The Room" for a few quiet beers Friday night. Saturday was spent over Whitmire's watching the Buckeye's in his basement bar, AKA Whit's End. I actually came home after while everyone else went out. As I told some of you, I was looking for a calmer weekend than the last few have been. While at Whit's Bobby Ferrando, who is also Whit's neighbor, told me to stop over the next day and pick up his copy of "The Pursuit of Happyness." When I showed up Whit and Bobby were both outside, Bobby told me to go get Karen and come back over, he was making Sausage and Peppers on the Grill. I ended up with another 10 or so unexpected beers in me and enjoyed the weather while playing Cornhole, (it's not what you think), until dark. Okay, we didn't really stop at sundown. This was my kind of weekend, hanging out, B.S.ing with friends, having a few brews, playing some sort of game on the lawn, and watching sports.

Speaking of sports, is there a better week in sports than this one, I thought this was what they meant on the sign in front of a local church that said something about Holy Week. Saturday was the Final Four, last night MLB opening night. Today Indians' opening day, followed by the NCAA Basketball National Championship, baseball all week, NBA games that almost mean something, and the Master's starts on Thursday.

On the issue of Opening Day. What's the deal with the NFL and other sports calling their first games, opening day. You may have more fans and viewers NFL, but you well never touch the prestige and importance of MLB. Especially for those of us living in the North, opening day means a lot more than just baseball, it's Spring, a renewal, a new hope, and signals the beginning of outside activities and cookouts. Sorry football, I love you, but your first game just means back to school, and that Winter is coming.

The Indians put a beating on the White Sox today, winning 12-5. Items of note are Grady's lead-off Home Run, Trot Nixon's 3 for 4 with a walk, and some scoring shenanigans from the White Sox. Hafner hit a ball in the hole with runners on, the play required the SS Uribe to dive to make the stop, he got up and made a quick throw past the First baseman. This was originally scored a hit and an error, because Pronk got to 2nd on the overthrow. Two innings later the hit was changed to an E costing Hafner a hit and an RBI, while saving the pitcher Contreras an earned run, which he gave up plenty of anyway (7). Anyway C.C. stayed unbeatable against the ChiSox, looks like Grady's Spring Training slump is over, and the Tribe is poised to go wire to wire.

Good luck to the Buckeyes tonight, I need to go get ready for my return to the Wild Wings, I was there for most of the Indians game, to watch the game. Don't for get to TiVo One Shining Moment. I wonder if OSU will be wearing their "whites" tonight. In the tournament the higher seed always wears its lighter color uniforms, tonight we have two 1 seeds facing off. OSU finished the season the higher seed, (#1 in the nation), but Florida is the favorite. If the Buckeyes even had to pack their red or gray jerseys I'll be angry.

It's just under 2 hours until tip, and Oden already has been called for 3 ticky tack fouls.

GO BUCKS!!

Papa's Got a Brand New Bag

Allow me to jump off one soap box and onto another. Last week the Board of Supervisor's in San Francisco voted 10-1 to ban plastic bags from large retail and grocery stores. The hope is that they can not only cut the number of plastic bags being used but get these consumer outlets to begin using biodegradable bags made from cornstarch rather than the current bags made from oil and natural gas. Problem is the corn starch bags cost more, at least at this point, so the fear is that all of these stores will just o back to using strictly paper bags. Sounds great right? They're made from a renewable resource and are biodegradable. But again there are problems, we are already cutting down trees at a alarming rate, they take up more space in a landfill, breakdown very slowly, and their production creates incredibly more pollution than their plastic brothers.

The true goal is to get the consumers to begin reusing bags, or buying specific reusable bags. Members of the media have called this attempt "eccentric" and blame it on the extreme liberalism of the West Coast, San Fran in particular. I believe it's a good start, but perhaps a little near sighted. The people in countries all over Europe already carry baskets and satchels from home when they go to the grocery, so it's not completely absurd. Some stores either charge for bags or offer a small discount for reusing their bags.

This whole story got my attention because it is something I have been conscientious of since viewing An Inconvenient Truth. I do not reuse plastic bags when I go to the store, I'm not embarrassed, I just can't remember to do things like that. I do however try to reuse the bags for garbage or lunches or anything else before discarding them. One action I have taken is refusing a bag when I don't need it. Gas stations, drugstores, and convenience stores are always putting your stuff in a bag. Tell them you don't need it, or take your items out of the bag and leave it for the next person. You don't need a bag for a can of chew and a pop, or a pack of gum and a bottle of water, or a coffee and newspaper, or a six pack and a bag of pretzels (except at Sheetz where they insist it's the law to bag your beer because it's suppose to prevent you from drinking it in the car, because if you're going to break the open container law that plastic bag is going to cause you to have second thoughts, besides they're like breaking into Ft. Knox). These plastic bags are an epidemic, if you don't believe me, just look around next time you are out and about, I found three at he edge of the woods on the corner of my street. Refusing the bags is easy to do, it gives you less trash to deal with in your car, and can give you the personal satisfaction of feeling like you've taken action.