Hear the Hurd

4th of July, 2009

[Reposted from last year]

Every year, it's nice to do something to remember this day and what it means to us as a nation.  Having looked at various aspects of the holiday before, I thought it might be interesting to remind that not only do we celebrate the birth of a nation on the 4th, but so too the deaths of two of its greatest founders - Jefferson and Adams.  The two both died on this day in 1826, hours apart.  Adams final words were, "Thomas Jefferson survives" when in fact, Thomas Jefferson had predeceased his friend.  A rivalry to the final breath.

It's also important to note that Adams himself, among the many things he brought this country, was perhaps the first to suggest we celebrate this day in the manner in which we do.  In a letter to Abigail he discusses his thoughts for what the 4th means,

"The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not."

We have celebrated thusly ever since as I am sure many and most of you will do today.  I am grateful for my country and grateful to the men and women that defend her.  Happy birthday, United States of America.  I hope it's a great day.  That is all.

The Longest Night

Since I've been working on a new bit of writing lately, I thought I would add it here for anyone interested in reading it.  Note that it likely still has some typos and such in there, though hopefully I've caught most of them.  I'm not entirely sure I like the story, to be honest.  But I want to keep "in shape" as it were in my writing so anything works for me right now.  I'm also going for mood here which is something I think needs work in my stuff.  Some scenes work better than others. 

The story takes place in an alternate history of which I've only begun to sketch out.  It is not that far from our own so it should feel familiar.  It jumps between a few periods of time and as I go further, there will be more of that.  I am going for a serial feel to the narrative so each chapter should feel like an episode in that ongoing story.  But it will not last forever.  There is a definite end there somewhere.  Just not sure where yet.  Like I said, I am using this work as practice.

As I complete each episode, I'll add a link to it here.  To read along with my writing and others reading, you can always head over to the Paradox forums and find this along with much of my other work (as well as some fantastic writing by others.)  I go by coz1 there.

Episode I

 

If you read through it and have some thoughts, please feel free to add them below in the comments section, or even sign up at Paradox and respond there.  It's a fun group of folks.  That is all.

Michael Jackson Dies at 50

So...I hear tell this Michael Jackson fella died yesterday.  Lot's of sadness out there and some even calling it a tragedy.  Hmm.  I guess I don't particularly feel that way.  Sure, I am sad for his family as I would be for anyone that lost a loved one.  But the Michael Jackson I appreciated died years ago...like, early to mid 90's.  Even before child molestation charges came out, he was already a strange joke of the master he once was.  I'll give you thatat least..at one point, he was a master.  He mastered just about every form of advertising and entertainment.  He was a huge star.  And he recorded a number of songs that I still enjoy.  But I cannot say I am feeling much grief over his death as I am rather "grieved out" after these past fifteen years or so.  The genius may have caused that downturn, but it happened nonetheless.  I cannot even say it is a shame he did not have his comeback chance because he did...many times over.  And every time, he was just a bit more frightening.  And that's the sadness...that's the tragedy.  Not his eventual end which we will all succumb to someday.  I will say rest in peace, Michael.  You gave me some good memories and this is at least a good chance to recall the 80's......................................and that's done.  That is all.

Nazi Zombies? Gotta See That!

I have not had much to put up here of late but I did run across a preview for a new film coming out this year that looks to be a must see for zombie fans...and myself in particular.

Oh!  My!  God!! 

That is all.

2009 Major League Baseball Preseason Picks

No, I have not abandoned my little corner or the internets, folks.  I just didn't have anything to say at present.  Or better yet, have decided to hold off on political posting for the meantime, and am lucky to have the baseball season upon us in short order (tonight for Braves and Phillies fans.)  Since I have some little time left, let me put out my picks for the oncoming season.  How right am I?  Have I studied the teams enough?  Do I have any idea of what I am talking about?  You may be the judge of that.  I, of course, think I am spot on and perfect.  Thus the picks:

American League East

• New York Yankees
• Tampa Bay Rays (WC)
• Boston Red Sox
• Toronto Blue Jays
• Baltimore Orioles

This is among the toughest divisions not only to play in but so too to pick.  Many are picking the Sox to win the whole thing.  I just don't see how they get by without Manny given the strengths of the other teams.  The Yankees have become younger and cheaper all at once.  I still don't entirely trust that Sabathia will be the best buy in the long run, but for now he remains a stellar pitcher and with the addition of him and Burnett (with Pettitte in the 5th starter role) they have a decent rotation.  So too do the Rays return a very strong team.  They will not surprise this year, but they will compete with great pitching and defense and young players capable of the big play.  They may drop a bit from last year's height.  This leaves the Sox the odd man out.  Boston will still compete however, leaving Toronto and Baltimore the punching bags of the division.

American League Central

• Cleveland Indians
• Detroit Tigers
• Chicago White Sox
• Minnesota Twins
• Kansas City Royals

In great contrast to their eastern league members, the central division is not a strong one.  In truth, it is difficult to figure if the west or central is worse, top to bottom.  The teams in this division all maintain a strong core of good players, but each lack the players to round out the staff in such a way as to dominate.  Of them all, I think Cleveland is the best bet to win out, though Detroit has the capabilities, with strong performances by all involved, to come out ahead.  Chicago and Minnesota both do not have sufficient strength to counter their betters and the Royals remains a wasteland of a team and an embarrassment to Kansas City and the league.  Every time I hold out some hope for them, they let me down.

American League West

• Anaheim Angels of California in Los Angeles
• Oakland Athletics
• Texas Rangers
• Seattle Mariners

The Angels remain the class of this division on paper but they start the season with starting pitching woes.  Due to that, the gap between them and a vastly improved Oakland lessons, but I still think the Angels win out.  Texas may have some talent, but not enough to win the division and Seattle only has Junior's return to cheer.  They have a season full of one last lap to rejoice over and that's nice.

National League East

• Philadelphia Phillies
• Atlanta Braves (WC)
• New York Mets
• Florida Marlins
• Washington Nationals

I cannot pick the Braves to win the division this year, however it would not shock me to see such an outcome.  The Phillies must be given some respect for winning it all last year and their core remains solid, though injury to Cole Hamels is troublesome.  The Mets have improved themselves as well, though their hapless management remains paramount in my mind when I consider them.  I do think the Braves and Mets will be very close this year and if the Braves squeak into the wild card slot, it will be by a very, very close margin.  The Marlins too have a sneaky bunch down there and it is possible their youthful and talented team could and likely will compete.  And the Natspos remain a joke, sorry to say.  They may be a difficult team to keep down but they will not win.

National League Central

• Chicago Cubs
• Milwaukee Brewers
• St. Louis Cardinals
• Cincinnati Reds
• Houston Astros
• Pittsburgh Pirates

Chicago is clearly the class of this division and may be poised to be best in the league if everything hits on all cylinders, but when does that ever happen?  They have little fear from their division members, however.  Milwaukee and St. Louis are a step ahead and both Cincinnati and Houston have some promising parts, but none have a whole enough to compete with Chicago.  And Pittsburgh remains the pits (excuse the pun.)

National League West

• Los Angeles Dodgers
• Arizona Diamondbacks
• San Francisco Giants
• Colorado Rockies
• San Diego Padres

Again, the Dodgers are far and away better than the other teams here.  Arizona and San Fran both have talent and the Rockies can compete a little, but none have the all around tools like Los Angeles.  The Manny signing helps tremendously.  San Diego is treading water and look for Jake Peavy to be moved before the trade deadline.  I read talk that the Angels are interested and that may be a good fit.

For the postseason:

Division Series:
Yankees over Indians
Rays over Angels
Phillies over Los Angeles
Cubs over Braves

Championship Series:
Yankees over Rays
Cubs over Phillies

World Series:
Cubs over Yankees in seven games

And there you have it.  It sucks picking against the Braves given such good pitching, but I still think they lack enough offense to really compete with the big boys and their wild card will be luck more than anything (if they even make it that far.)  The Cubs are due and have a very good team, all things considered.  I might pick the Yankees, Rays or even the Phillies again to win it all (or even Boston or the Mets if they were to make it to the postseason), but I am sticking with the Cubs.  Call it a sentimental pick.  We'll revisit at the end of the season and see how I did.  Hopefully more baseball blogging in the near future.  I am certainly excited about the season starting yet again.  It is always a highlight of my year.  That is all.

81st Academy Awards

The picks are up below and I'm ready to see who wins what.  I was going to live-blog but frankly, I just want to watch tonight.  I might step in with some thoughts as it goes along, but look more for a wrap up tomorrow.  I will say the red carpet is pretty boring so far, which is nothing new.  I don't really care what the folks wear.  But you never know when you get a prime moment like Gary Busey.  We'll see if anything happens.  Right now, I'm off to fix dinner and settle in for a long night.  Back later. 

6:37 - OK...Phoebe Cates sighting.  That can't be bad.  She's still hot all these years later.  That Kevin Kline is a lucky man.

8:38 - Opening song by Hugh Jackman...not bad.  A little cheesy, but he can pull it off.  Nice shout out to Wolverine at the end.

8:43 - Now that's some Hollywood royalty right there presenting the Best Supporting Actress.  Nice to see Angelica Huston.

8:48 - Cruz wins.  One for one.  This may be a good night.  And I liked how they did that.  It's going to make the show a long night but it really helped showcase each of the nominees.

8:56 - Screenplay time - I really want to see In Bruges.  It looks great.  Milk wins making me 2 for 2 on the night.

9:01 - Slumdog wins the first one tonight.  And I'm 3 for 3 so far.

9:07 - Wall-E takes animated feature.  Make that 4 for 4.  Looking good.

9:09 - My first wrong pick.  Animated short goes to La Maison en Petits Cubes. Off course, it's in the crap shoot.  Damn.  But good for the winner.  One of these days, I'll get the chance to watch these.  Still, it was not considered a front runner.  I guess Pixar doesn't always win.

9:16 - Art Direction goes to Button.  5 for 6.  Shout out to David Fincher.  A great director.

9:20 - Costume Design goes to The Duchess.  6 for 7.  Still doing well.

9:24 - Make Up goes to...I've picked Benjamin Button, but this could go any way.  It goes to Button.  7 for 8.  Just reading off names.  Boring, dude.

9:29 - These look backs on the year are just going to make the show longer.  I'd like to say it is fun, but it goes so fast, it really doesn't do much for me.  The show has moved pretty quickly though.  They just got three awards out in less than 10 minutes so...not bad.  Still don't think we'll be done before midnight.

9:31 - Ben Stiller in total Joaquim Phoenix mode - pretty funny.  Cinematography goes to Slumdog.  It picks up another and so do I.

9:37 - By the way, put me down as someone who thinks Joaquim is totally doing a performance art thing with this new persona.  If so, it is amazing.  I read someone recently compare his latest bit on Letterman to Andy Kaufman.  If so, he's doing it brilliantly.  And I still miss his brother.  I say it every chance I get and won't ever stop.

9:40 - I love this "if delivery people" in school commercial.  Good one.  And this from someone who hates commercials.

9:42 - Another year wrap up?  Come on.  The Apatow directed bit was pretty good though.

9:45 - Janusz Kaminski...that's great!  OK, I'll take that bit.  Inspired comedy.

9:46 - Short Live Action goes to Spielzuegland (Toyland)!  I got one of the crapshoot right.  Can I mention that I am now 9 for 10 now?  Sweet.  And always bank on the Holocaust film.

9:53 - They can't allow the nominated songs do full numbers but they can put this musical interlude in here?  Just to get Beyonce in there?  It cost them Peter Gabriel performing and I now I really don't blame him his choice not to perform.  Jeez.

9:57 - Oy vey. I really could have done without that.  Did I say this show wouldn't be over by midnight?  I think that's a definite now.  Still have 5 tech awards, Best Foreign Film and the big 4 to go, not to mention the In Memorian, the special award to Jerry Lewis and Supporting Actor to Ledger.  Oh, and both documentary awards.

10:02 Best Supporting Actor and we get Chris Walken, Kevin Kline, Alan Arkin, Cuba Gooding Jr, and Joel Grey.  Where is Javier Bardem?  The award goes to...as we all know...Heath Ledger.  His family accepts, Mom, Dad and Sis.

10:10 - This still hurts.  Ledger was a great actor.

10:11 - While I dry my eyes after that, let's look at the documentaries.  I'd love to see Werner Herzog take this documentary feature award (though I picked against it.)  He's awesome.  And it has to be Bill Maher presenting?  Ugh.  Still, bring on the awards.  Winner of documentary feature is Man on Wire.  I picked right.  And documentary short is Smile Pinki.  Got that one wrong.  Went 2 for 4 in the crapshoot.  Not bad.  I'm still 11 for 13 on the night.

10:23 - You know, I just realized Jack Nicholson ain't in the front row this year.  What's up with that?  It ain't the Oscars without Jack.

10:25 - Effects awards.  And Will Smith does it.  Cool.  Visual Effects goes to Benjamin Button.  Another correct pick.

10:28 - Sound Editing.  This could go either way. I picked Wall-E.  The Dark Knight wins it.  Cool.  I'm glad to be wrong.

10:31 - And Sound Mixing...I picked Slumdog here but after The Dark Knight just won, I might be out again.  Winner is Slumdog.  13 for 16 baby!

10:34 - Film Editing is next.  They're working quickly now, so maybe I'm wrong.  Might be over before midnight.  I picked Slumdog and I was right.  The sweep truly begins.

10:40 - Guess I decided to live-blog after all.  Well, what the hell.  It's been a pretty good show so far.  Now bring on the Jerry Lewis!

10:41 - And Eddie Murphy presents it.  Nice.

10:46 - Jerry looks better than he has but it's clear he's still suffering from illness.  I love this guy and no man has worked harder over the years for a cause as he has.  This was truly why they have the Hersholt award.  I wished we'd gotten a bit of a blue speech (I do so love to see Jerry work blue) but it wasn't the right time.  Nice to see him recognized!

10:53 - Score goes to Slumdog.  Another correct pick.  And Rahman says God is great.  Take that Bill Maher!

10:58 - They are going through the songs now and I think I picked this wrong.  I'd love to see Peter Gabriel pick up an Oscar but the Indian sounds from Slumdog just seem much stronger songs.

11:01 - Best Song goes to "Jai Ho" from Slumdog.  Yep.  Picked wrong on that one.  15 for 19 now.  I'd better do well on the last five awards.

11:06 - Foreign Language film goes to Departures.  Another one wrong!  But I'm kind of glad about this.  I have not seen Waltzing with Bashir, but I understand the subject matter would irritate me.  I'll take the wrong pick.  Good for Japan too.

11:10 - It's In Memoriam time.  Queen Latifa will sing, which I'm not sure about but OK.  Roy Scheider.  Stan Winston.  Charlton Heston.  Sydney Pollack.  And Newman.  Always Paul Newman.  Rest in peace, Lequisto.

11:19 - It's Best Director time and while I love Reese Witherspoon, I'd prefer last year's winner to present.  I'm guessing Boyle.  And the winner is...Boyle.

11:22 - I just have to say...Danny Bolye has an Oscar.  Really cool.  I've loved this man's work for so long.  It's really awesome to see him have this day.

11:24 - I should also mention that makes me 16 for 21.

11:26 - Best Actress time - I picked Winslet.  We get presenters, Nicole Kidman, Halle Berry, the truly beautiful Marion Cotillard, Shirley fricken MacLain and Sophia fricken Loren! 

11:33 - The winner is...Kate Winslet. And it's about bloody time!

11:35 - Best Actor...the presenters are Robert De Niro, Ben Kingsley, Anthony Hopkins, Adrien Brody and Mike Douglas.  Wow.  Outside of Brody, that is a heady line up.  Too bad Daniel Day Lewis couldn't be there.  I picked Mickey.  Come on, Mickey!

11:43 - It goes to Sean. 

11:46 - And of course, he's political.  Oy.  At least there's a shout out to Mickey.

11:47 - Spielberg gives out Best Picture.  Thanks for that, Academy.  It should be Slumdog.

11:53 - Winner is Slumdog.  18 for 24 on the night.  My best showing since 2006.

11:55 - And the show is over.  They got it done by midnight.  It was close, but they got it done.

That is all.

2009 Oscar Picks

It is Oscar time again and I'm getting a bit of an early start on my picks.  I've picked over 50% over the past five years (my best being 21/24 in 2004) and hopefully I can keep up with that pace.  I've done some research here and there in which films have won what and now make my best educated guess as to which films will come out on top on February 22nd.  Below are my picks and when the winners are announced, I'll mark those I got wrong.  So let's get to those picks:

Best Picture - Slumdog Millionaire

This seems to be the consensus pick of all the films up for best picture.  This is definitely Danny Boyle's year and I would be very surprised if this film doesn't win.  It's won all the other awards and I don't think we'll see a surprise change on Oscar night.

Best Actor - Mickey Rourke for The Wrestler

I'm taking a heartfelt risk here.  Sean Penn is the safe choice and I think there is about a 50/50 chance for one of these two men to take home the gold.  We may see a split vote here giving the award to Frank Langella, but I am going to go with Mickey.  After comingback from where he has been, this would be great to see and I think The Wrestler is making a late showing amongst voters.  His interview on Charlie Rose the other night certainly did not hurt him.

Best Actress - Kate Winslet for The Reader

After five previous nominations for Winslet and no wins, I have a hard time believing the Academy would give Meryl Streep her third Oscar before giving Kate her first.  Like the above category, there could be a split vote giving the award to Melissa Leo or even Anne Hathaway, but the best actress category isn't as "volatile" as supporting actress usually is.  I've not seen the film, but one could see voters giving Winslet this for not just The Reader but so too her performance in Revolutionary Road.

Best Supporting Actor - Heath Ledger for The Dark Knight

The surprise of the night would be to see someone else take this award.  There is a chance of some backlash over the sure thing that is Ledger's performance, but that would be wrong-headed.  Robert Downey, Jr. would likely be the recipient of any but I foresee Ledger's win here as the surest thing of the night.  What an incredible performance and what sadness that he won't be there to accept.  Further, at least this great film will win one award after being left off (and wrongly I might add) from the Best Picture list.

Best Supporting Actress - Penelope Cruz for Vicky Cristina Barcelona

This is the toughest of the acting catagories, mostly because several other awards have included Winslet's The Reader performance and she's won.  As well, one can never truly accurately pick a lock here.  Best Supporting Actress always throws you for a loop.  But always consider the Woody Allen actress a strong contender.  As well, the voters often like to reward up and coming actresses here.  Tomei gives what I understand is a strong performance but she's already won this for My Cousin Vinny.  There are two performances from Doubt included, though Viola Davis likely has the edge there.  In the end, I'm going with the safe pick of Cruz.

Best Director - Danny Boyle for Slumdog Millionaire

With two of my favorite directors going for this award, it might be a tough call, but Boyle seems to be taking in all the wins.  I've loved this guy's work since Shallow Grave and it will be excellent to see him finally take home an Oscar.  This is pretty much a sure thing.  If Slumdog picks up a lot of the other awards, as I think it will, then he is a sure thing.

Best Foreign Film - Waltz with Bashir

Another pretty sure guess here.  As usual, I've not see any of the films, but this one keeps winning.  I feel pretty secure with this pick.  If it doesn't win, look for The Class to upset.

Best Original Screenplay - Dustin Lance Black for Milk

There is an undercurrent suggesting Wall-E might have a shot here, but I am going to go with Milk as the winner.  It seems to have the backing and Milk was a well considered film.  I went out on a limb and went against Penn in the acting catagory, but without Slumdog to compete with here, I think Milk is the safe choice.

Best Adapted Screenplay - Simon Beaufoy for Slumdog Millionaire

Another award Slumdog competes for and another it wins.  I really don't see how another could possibly win here.  It's the safe choice, to be sure.

Best Cinematography - Anthony Dod Mantle for Slumdog Millionaire

I might as well go with the sweep for Slumdog this year.  It has a lot of backing.  I have not seen much on this catagory but this seems to be a safe pick.  No idea who might upset, though I understand the duo of Menges and Deakens has a shot.

Best Art Direction - Donald Graham Burt and Victor J. Zolfo for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Without Slumdog to compete with here, Benjamin Button finally gets a chance to win some awards.  It is the most nominated this year and from what I've seen of the film, it deserves this.  It will pick up some other technical awards this year, to the detriment of The Dark Knight, also nominated in many of the same catagories.  Just no love for the Batman this year.

Best Costume Design - Michael O'Connor for The Duchess

When you have a period piece with lots of fancy dresses, don't pick against it.  It's just that simple.

Best Film Editing - Chris Dickens for Slumdog Millionaire

In a sweeps year, pick the sweeping film.  Thus, Slumdog takes this too.  Of course, I'd like to see The Dark Knight take a victory, but I don't see it happening.

Best Sound Editing - Ben Burtt and Matthew Wood for Wall-E

This seems to me a three way race between Wall-E, The Dark Knight and Slumdog Millionaire, the latter especially given the sweeping nature of its awards night.  But I think the veteren Burtt and the love for the film will give Wall-E the win here.

Best Sound Mixing - Slumdog Millionaire

I'm not going to list all of the peope involved in this but I think here is where we see the sweep taking place.  For the above award, they are looking at sound effects creation wherein here we see the mixing of said sounds into the film itself.  While Wall-E might have a shot here too, I think these two films split these awards.  It is possible that The Dark Knight could sweep the two, giving it a decent night, but look for the sweep.

Best Score - A.R. Rahman for Slumdog Millionaire

He's won just about everything else for this and I think he'll be part of the sweep for the night.  From what I have heard, it is deserving too.

Best Song - "Down to Earth" from Wall-E

With The Boss not competing this year, it is a wide open race.  Both of the other nominees are from the same film so they will likely cancel each other out giving Peter Gabriel a win.  Too bad he won't be performing it on Oscar night but I understand why (they only wanted to give these nominees a short time to put them into a medly and Gabriel refused.)

Best Make Up - Greg Cannom for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

In the tech catagories, Benjamin Button will do well.  Hellboy II might have a shot, but look for the amazing work in Button to take the gold.

Best Visual Effects - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

I won't be listing all the people for this either, but suffice to say Button takes another of the tech awards.  The Dark Knight could sneak by, but I don't think so.  The aging process alone in Button seems to deserve it.

Best Animated Feature - Wall-E

This one is pretty easy.  Many felt this to be the best of the year in total so it would surprise me if another broke through here.  It would be silly to pick against it.

And Now The Crapshoot:

Best Documentary Feature - Man on Wire
Best Documentary Short - The Witness from the Balcony of Room 306
Best Animated Short - Presto
Best Live Action Short - Spielzeugland (Toyland)

I actually feel pretty strongly about this other than docu short.  Man on Wire has been winning a lot this year, despite Werner Herzog and Erryl Morris both having films nominated.  And for the shorts, the animated has a Pixar entry which I cannot guess against and the live action short has to do with the Holocaust.  One should know never to bet against that in an Oscar race.  Tried and true always works in the crapshoot.  Let's see how well I do.

Well, that's that.  Hopefully I can get over the 50% threshhold if not more.  I'd like to see me do better than half on the crapshoot.  That always helps the final tally.  The year I got 21 out of 24, I guessed three out of four in the crapshoot correctly.  Return on the 22nd where I will try and live-blog the event.  I do like to watch it though, so it may not be a lively live-blog.  If anything, I'll certainly do a wrap up the next day.  That is all.

A-Rod on Steroids

So A-Rod admits using steroid - after he was caught from a failed test in 2003.  This, of course, bursts quite a few bubbles.  Those that held out hope that he would come along and return the home run record to legitimacy can no longer say that.  But does this really surprise anyone?  If you listened to Jose Canseco (which few do) you knew it already.  But if you considered the sport from the late 90's until the powers that be were recently forced to address steroids you saw some crazy numbers going up and folks like Bonds and Clemens (and A-Rod) doing some inhuman things.  And as always, Buster Olney speaks to what I most consider about this issue:

One of the most remarkable aspects of the whole steroids issue is that while a handful of players -- those named in the Mitchell report, Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, now Alex Rodriguez, etc. -- have borne the brunt of the fallout for what was an industry-wide problem, those who held real power in the sport remain in place in the union leadership and in management, essentially untouched.

There has been change in the sport over the past six years, a move into testing. But there never has been any real accountability, other than for a small group of users, which is one of the great failings of the Mitchell report; other than a general statement about general complicity, there was very little in the report about what specific decisions by the sport's leaders helped to foster the rise in steroid use. Bonds probably will never get another job in baseball, and Clemens and McGwire are effectively persona non grata, but the people who made the decisions for the game in the '90s are in power.

Yep - Selig especially still has his position.  At least Bonds isn't the only scapegoat now, but I'd prefer to see a.) the rest of the names on that list of 104 so we can get as much light onto that era as possible and b.) some folks in power step down considering they allowed it to occur.  But I'm not holding my breath for that to happen. 

EDIT - Here's a interesting piece on the situation from Ben Domenech at The New Ledger (hat tip to The Baseball Crank.)  The best portion, to me:

A-Rod may well be the bridge too far for the Hall of Fame; it’s impossible to keep out one of the greatest all-around players in the history of baseball, a three time MVP who did some of his best work after testing began. But ultimately, whether Commissioner Bud Selig decides to make a decision here or not (given his penchant for wussiness, I’d suspect not), if Alex Rodriguez gets in, McGwire and the other steroid users deserve to be in as well. Even if it takes building a darkened room with a giant asterisk permanently displayed on the ceiling, baseball must recognize the true nature of this era - that it wasn’t just a few bad apples hooked on roids or amphetamines, but a long list of some of the most competitive and impressive players the game has ever known.

Agreed and it will be interesting to see if there is a double standard between say Bonds and Rodriguez when it comes to the Hall (and I cannot resist suggesting we already have issue with one of the best players not in there - Rose.)  We have not even seen the true effect of steroids on voting other than McGwire's case, but he was the first poster boy and as the writer suggests, Big Mac isn't getting any closer, but rather further away from enshrinement.  I don't think we've even scratched the surface on this issue, frankly.  The Mitchell Report was supposed to be an end to it, it seems to me, at least that was likely the hope of Selig and the gang.  But it should not be.  If steroids are bad for baseball, then all who allowed them to be should see judgment. That is all.

"I Feel Funny"

How about a laugh for the day:

Priceless. That is all.

2009 SAG Awards Afterthoughts

Not much excitement last night, though it was great to see James Earl Jones receive a lifetime achievement award.  Even nicer was his comment towards the late Paul Newman at the end.  Anyone that loves Paul is OK im my book, though it needn't be said that JEJ already was.  I think we can safely assume the Oscars will line up slightly similar - Sean Pen for Milk, Heath Ledger for The Dark Knight and Slumdog Millionaire taking Best Picture.  The only wrench is Kate Winslet.  Moving her perfomance in The Reader to Best Actress complicates things.  However, I tend to think that will open up the avenue for Penelope Cruz for Supporting Actress (though watch for Marisa Tomei) and leave Kate the winner in Best Actress.  Streep looks good in Doubt but I think the Academy will reward Kate Winslet for both perfomances (and give her that allusive win she's been waiting for.)  I'm not ready to put that in stone just yet.  We'll save that until after the BAFTA's and just before the perfomance itself.  It was a pretty quick show, over in two hours.  And man, Anthony Hopkins is looking old.  That is all.

Oscar Nominations Announced

The Oscar nominations are out and already I am irritated.  Let's see them:

Best Picture

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Frost/Nixon

Milk

The Reader

Slumdog Millionaire

 

Best Director

Danny Boyle, Slumdog Millionaire

Stephen Daldry, The Reader

David Fincher, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon

Gus Van Sant, Milk

 

Best Actor

Richard Jenkins, The Visitor

Frank Langella, Frost/Nixon

Sean Penn, Milk

Brad Pitt, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Mickey Rourke, The Wrestler

 

Best Actress

Anne Hathaway, Rachel Getting Married

Angelina Jolie, Changeling

Melissa Leo, Frozen River

Meryl Streep, Doubt

Kate Winslet. The Reader

 

Best Supporting Actor

Josh Brolin, Milk

Robert Downey, Jr., Tropic Thunder

Philip Seymour Hoffman, Doubt

Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight

Michael Shannon, Revolutionary Road

 

Best Supporting Actress

Amy Adams, Doubt

Penelope Cruz, Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Viola Davis, Doubt

Taraji P. Henson, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Marisa Tomei, The Wrestler

 

As you can plainly see, The Dark Knight only got one of the big nominations.  Everyone assumed Heath Ledger would get his and he'll likely win as well.  But I thought it was good enough to get a Best Picture nod, even if it may not win.  As it is, and as usual, I have seen none of the current Best Picture nominations.  Damn back end release schedule.  In fact, of all the movies listed above, I've only seen two - The Dark Knight and Tropic Thunder.

 

I'll have to come back and look at the nominations again when I have my notes in front of me, but I can already tell that Kate Winslet adds her 6th (and may finally win.)  And of course, Meryl Streep just adds one more to her record number of nominations.  I think this makes the 15th.  I'll double check that when I can.

 

Finally, it looks liek Jerry Lewis will be receiving the Hersholt award.  That should be fun to watch.  As I said, I'll be back later and look into these.  I just wish I had a chance to see all the films before the awards.  I'll do my best. 

EDIT - Back now to see who added to their nominations tally.  Of course, the biggie is Meryl Streep continuing her lead as the most nominated actor in the history of the Academy.  This is her 15th, her first coming 30 years ago for The Deer Hunter.  In fact, she has 12 nominations alone just as Best Actress, the other three for Best Supporting Actress.  After her, the two others adding to their impressive totals are Sean Penn crossing that 5th nomination barrier, and Kate Winslet with her 6th nomination, with no wins.  It might be her year.

Philip Seymour Hoffman and Marisa Tomei are both seeing their 3rd nominations this year, while Brad Pitt, his wife Angelina Jolie, Robert Downey, Jr., Amy Adams, Penelope Cruz and Heath Ledger are all seeing their 2nd nominations, Ledger's almost exactly a year after his passing.  Everyone else is a first time nominee.

For the directors, Ron Howard and Gus Van Sant are seeing their 2nd nomination while Stephen Daldry has received his 3rd.  And though not nominated as director, Mike Leigh received his 6th nomination (4 for screenwriting and 2 for directing.)  The oddity about this is of course that Leigh's films are almost entirely unscripted and improvised.  They must do some good work to rack up 4 writing nominations.

I can't even begin handicapping the races this year, though I am fairly confident that Slumdog Millionaire is easily in the lead at present as is the director Danny Boyle.  I love his work and I shall definitely have to see the film.  I think Winslet looks good for Actress and Ledger is nearly a shoe-in for Best Supporting Actor.  Best Supporting Actress is likely between Cruz and Tomei, I think.  And I don't even know where to begin with Best Actor.  I'll of course be paying attention to the race as the days count down to the show and I'll make my yearly picks right here.  That is all.

MLK and the Future

It is that day again when we remember Martin Luther King, Jr. and his accomplishments, though I cannot call such just his.  In truth, those accomplishments belong to many.  This is a day, for me at least, to recall the words - judge by the content of character rather than the color of skin.  I can extrapolate that out to much more than skin color, but the sentiment remains.  What we are after here is a society that sees others for what they do rather than what they say.  One cannot change it over night but that does not mean the ideal should be put aside.  If we are to hold one man above others than let us consider his words and understand why - because what he said matters.

In this time, when we are about to see the ascension of the first black man as President of the United States, we can look back and see this ideal both upheld and still ignored.  Would that all men found the truth in such a statement as MLK's and lead their lives in such a way.  While not wishing to go back through the election (that I am thankfully taking a break from), I cannot help but consider the manner in which Obama was elected.  Many voted for change.  Many others voted for the skin color.  I know not which outdraws the other, but it matters not.  The fact remains - many voted for the color.  That means King's message still holds truth to be found and thus it is still relevant.  Someday, the color boundry will be overlooked - I can hope.  Until then, let us look to the situation at hand - a black man is President.  If that can happen, then we can get past color, however it occurs.  This remains my hope and desire.

While I take the time to wish MLK a happy birthday, I consider the overall reach of his vision and see hope.  More than any political campaign or rhetoric, I see that and smile.  There is true hope out there.  Hope for real change - meaningful change and not just that promised and forgotten.  Someday, we will live in that society that sees people as people, not for their color, religion, sexuality or sex.  Just the content of their character.  That's the dream, folks.  That's the dream.  That is all.

It Was 28 Years Ago Today...

I still miss you, John.  That is all.

R.I.P. Bob Hammond

My grandfather died this afternoon after 95 years.  I was asked to write the obituary by my family and have done so.

Colonel Robert Edmund Hammond, Sr. (ret.) died at the age of 95 on Saturday November 22, 2008 in Roswell, Georgia of complications related to a broken hip as a result of a recent fall in his home.   Born in Atlanta, Georgia on June 16, 1913 to Dr. E.J. Hammond and Nell Louise Evans Hammond, he lived nearly a century in this same city, a lifetime that spanned two World Wars, the Great Depression and the fall of the Soviet Union – a life that saw the rise of the automobile, modern motion pictures and the television, the computer and the cell phone.

Bob, as he was known by his family and friends, graduated high school from Tech High and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science from Georgia School of Technology in 1936, graduating 2^nd in his class.  After graduation, he went to work as Chief Accountant with The Grinnell Company, Inc.  In February of 1941, Bob Hammond entered the U.S. Army as a 2^nd Lieutenant as a result of his previous R.O.T.C. training and throughout the war served as a Personnel Officer and Quartermaster in both the Continental U.S. and the European Theater of Operations, including being stationed in Liège, Belgium during the Battle of the Bulge in which he was awarded the purple heart.

In 1946, he was discharged from active service as a Lt. Colonel and went to work with the Veterans Administration in a variety of capacities, including Deputy Commander of the Atlanta Army Depot from 1950 onwards as well as continuing his service in the Army reserves until his retirement as a full Colonel in 1973.  From 1951 through his retirement in 1978, Bob was employed by Lockheed Aircraft Corporation in Marietta, Georgia and was for a time the Engineering Branch’s Budget Control Department Manager.  In his later years, he also worked as a real estate agent for Harry Norman Realty on a part time basis.

Throughout his years he enjoyed many sports especially baseball  He was fond of telling the story of seeing the 1927 Yankees as they traveled north from spring training.  He played in his youth and as a varsity player in high school as a catcher with future Major League players Hugh Casey and Marty Marion.  He also played Varsity baseball at Georgia Tech.  Bob enjoyed traveling, many times revisiting places in which he served in Europe while in the war.  He was also an avid golfer.  Such was his love of God and country; Bob was very proud of having earned his Eagle Scout rank in the Boy Scouts of America and was a member of the Order of the Arrow.  In addition, he was a proud member of the Retired Officers Association, the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, the Mayflower Society and a Charter Member of the National World War II Memorial Society.

He is survived by his wife of sixty two years, Corinne E. Hammond; his two daughters, Toni Hammond Conrad and Terri Hammond and his son Robert E. Hammond, Jr.; and their families that include five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Roswell United Methodist Church or the United Methodist Children’s Home.  Friends and family will gather at noon on November 25th with services to be held at 1pm that same day at Roswell Funeral Home at Mansell.

Robert Hammond’s life was a full life and well lived.  He will be greatly missed.

He lived a full life indeed.  I remember so many stories he has told me over the years.  About baseball, the war and just his life.  He was a fascinating man that I wished I had taken the time to get to know more.  I am happy to know he is at peace, finally after a month of struggling after breaking his hip.  I love you Papa.  Rest in peace.  That is all.

2008 College Football, Top 25 - Week 13

Just time enough to do a quick huts version of the rankings before the college football action gets started tonight with Ball State against Central Michigan.  In fact, the game has already started so let's move quickly:

1. Alabama (11-0)
2. Texas Tech (10-0)
3. Florida (9-1)
4. Texas (10-1)
5. Oklahoma (9-1)
6. USC (9-1)
7. Utah (10-0)
8. Boise State (10-0)
9. Penn State (10-1)
10. Oklahoma State (9-2)
11. Georgia (9-2)
12. Ohio State (9-2)
13. Missouri (9-2)
14. TCU (9-2)
15. Ball State (10-0)
16. BYU (10-1)
17. Michigan State (9-2)
18. Pittsburgh (7-2)
19. Cincinnati (8-2)
20. LSU (7-3)
21. Oregon State (7-3)
22. North Carolina (7-3)
23. Miami (7-3)
24. Maryland (7-3)
25. Oregon (8-3)

And there you have it.  Some good games this weekend, especially the one starring Texas tech as the move one step closer to the national championship game.  Oklahoma will be ready, however.  And the ACC have some make it or break it games with Miami/Georgia Tech and Maryland/Florida State.  I'm not going to get into any discussion of a needed playoff at this juncture both because it is a moot question for now and because I've already stated my thoughts in the past.  It can be done while keeping the current bowl system, suffice it to say.  Perhaps I'll get into it more as the the month of December gives us no football.  For now, I am focused on the battles at hand.  That is all.

2008 College Football, Top 25 - Week 12

Bit late posting my rankings this week due to some issues in the real world.  Already missed a game this week with Ball State winning their 10th game.  Still, better to get a ranking out now that wait until it's really too late.  So here goes:

1. Alabama (10-0)
2. Texas tech (10-0)
3. Florida (8-1)
4. Texas (9-1)
5. Oklahoma (9-1)
6. USC (8-1)
7. Utah (10-0)
8. Boise State (9-0)
9. Penn State (9-1)
10. Ohio State (8-2)
11. Oklahoma State (8-2)
12. Georgia (8-2)
13. Missouri (8-2)
14. TCU (9-2)
15. BYU (9-1)
16. Ball State (9-0)
17. North Carolina (7-2)
18. Michigan State (9-2)
19. Florida State (7-2)
20. Pittsburgh (7-2)
21. Cincinnati (7-2)
22. Tulsa (8-1)
23. Virginia Tech (6-3)
24. LSU (6-3)
25. Oregon State (6-3)

Not many exciting games this coming weekend, but a lot of teams looking to get back into the top 25 - Miami, South Carolina, Wake Forest, Air Force and California all have a chance to jump in. Me?  I'll be watching my Dawgs try and get past a pretty lousy Auburn team and will still have my fingers crossed.  Just wasn't the year though there is still a chance to win 10 games.  Even with that, it's looking like the Capital One Bowl.  Just sucks.  The sting still hasn't worn off that loss to Florida.  That is all.

And I For One Welcome Our New Socialist Overlords...

With apologies to The Simpsons, the above caption seems apt today.  I'll have much more to say about this election in the days ahead, including hopefully an after-thoughts post like I did after 2004.  But let us just say this for now - while I am unhappy with the results, unlike my Democrat friends from eight years ago, I firmly believe that this man I do not particularly like is still my President.  As such, he deserves my respect and attention for as long as he is capable of earning it.  If he screws up, you better believe I'll having something to say about it.  But I shall also recognize his achievments, should he have any.  I blame much of the current discord in politics on the Democrats refusal to ever allow President Bush any chance to govern as the President he was.  Instead, they maintain that he stole the election in 2000 ("selected, not elected"), that he was not rightfully "their President" and that he deserved nothing but scorn and derision.  Thanks to the left, an entire party refused to support a President during a time of war and this caused untold amounts of hardship and death as well as gave the enemy ammunition and an eagerness to continue trying to tear us down.  If one of America's own parties was trying to do it, why not them?  I am unsure of the direction President-elect Obama will pursue at first - but regardless, he is soon to be the rightful President of the United States of America...and a black man at that.  I cannot help but be proud of my country today even if I cannot applaud the spirit of the man that inhabits that skin.  America - you have grown.  Thank God for that.  I'll discuss more later.  That is all.

Election 2008

Well, we've finally come down to that day.  I voted this morning and contrary to what I assumed, I ended up waiting for 4 hours to get to my voting booth.  That I live in a heavily Democrat voting district, I can see the Dems have their numbers out.  However, I understand lines were long in those more Republican districts as well.  Maybe not 4 hours, but I must admit, quite a lot of that time was due to poor poll workers.  They simply weren't in a hurry to move the voters through.

I gave my vote to McCain/Palin as I imagine all two and half of my readers assumed I might.  Against my better wishes, I also voted for Saxby Chambliss. He's not my favorite thanks to what seems his go along-get along style in the Senate.  But I'd rather have one bad Senator from the state of Georgia that 60 Democrats able to stop a filibuster all on their own.

Exit polls are coming out but they've been so off these past few elections, I am not paying much attention.  But as the polls begin to close, I'll try and live-blog what I am thinking.  I still think McCain can win this thing, but I can also see Obama pulling ahead.  It could be a short night or one very long one.  Let's see. 

UPDATE 7:05 - Kentucky called for McCain and Vermont for Obama.  No surprises there.  The positive news, for now, is that Virginia is too close to call.  If Obama wins Virginia, it will be very hard for McCain to win this election.  Indiana too is close, as is South Carolina and Georgia.  These are not good signs.

UPDATE 7:30 - Polls close in Ohio and it's too close to call.  As remain Virginia, SC, Georgia and Indiana.  But West Virginia goes to McCain.  All the risky Senate races are also too close to call.  So it's not over early...yet.

UPDATE 7:34 - Strike that earlier thought on the Senate races - Mark Warner in Virginia takes the race making a turnover of 1 for the Dems.  That doesn't speak well of the Presidential race but lot's more to go.

UPDATE 7:50 - If there was a surprise, it was that South Carolina wasn't called earlier.  As it is, it is called for McCain.  So far, he's a head in the electoral count but behind in the popular vote.  Both have much room for change.  Oh no...there's that word again.

UPDATE 7:59 - Polls about to close at 8pm...let's see what goes where...Mass., Maryland, Illinois and DC...Conn., Maine, NJ, Delaware all for Obama...Oklahoma to McCain.  All the sudden the electoral count moves towards Obama.  None of these are surprises, however, nor should the have been.  Biden keeps his seat in the Senate.  Strange that, but he could run both campaigns.  Kentucky, North Carolina and Georgia Senate races all still too close to call.  Finally, Tennessee is called for McCain.

UPDATE 8:07 - By the way, there is an interesting debate going on with Eric von Haessler from The Regular Guys and a couple of other panelists going on right now at 11Alive's website.

UPDATE 8:09 - One turnover with Liddy Dole losing to Karen Hagen in North Carolina and Mitch McConnell is called winning the Senate race in Kentucky.  The Dems wanted Kentucky which will make it harder for them to get to 60.

UPDATE 8:13 - And now it seems New Hampshire will be called for Obama.  McCain wanted that.  The Senate race there looks bad for Sununu as well.  Could be another Dem gain.

UPDATE 8:22 - New Hampshire Senate race called for the Dems. Another loss.

UPDATE 8:31 - Arkansas called for McCain and Pennsylvania called for Obama.  That last hurts McCain's chances badly.  I didn't ever really think he could take it, but if he loses Virginia, I think the night is over unless something really crazy occurs in Colorado.  And even there, I think McCain needs another pick up.

UPDATE 8:36 - Looks like FOX is calling Alabama for McCain.  No shock there. 

UPDATE 8:39 - Good news...Georgia is called for McCain.  Had it gone for Obama, this race really would be over.

UPDATE 8:42 - And Saxby is safe too.  Georgia Senate race called for the Republican.  This means Dems have to upset in every other Senate challenge to get to 60.

UPDATE 9:00 - Polls closings in a slew of states, including all important Colorado (though it should be too close, I'd think)...Wisconsin called for Obama, New Mexico as well (a switch), North Dakota goes for McCain, Minnesota to Obama, NY to Obama, RI to Obama, Michigan to Obama and Wyoming to McCain.  No word still on Ohio where Obama leads, and in NC.  Virginia sees a McCain lead but still too close.  No word on Colorado at all.

UPDATE 9:10 - Looks like the Dems pick up another Senate seat in New Mexico.

UPDATE 9:19 - Ohio is looking to be called for Obama which effectively ends the night unless McCain can switch Michigan.  And no Republican has ever won the White House without winning Ohio.  North Carolina looks to go late in the night and Virginia might now be the difference between a large win and a close one.

UPDATE 9:52 - Looks like Louisiana has been called for McCain but it matters very little at this point.  All Obama has to do is win California, Oregon and Washington and he's won the election.  It looks to be over folks.  I'll stay up a little while to see how some further Senate races turn out but don't expect me to stay up late.  Not after spending 4 hours helping McCain and Chambliss win Georgia in the cold this morning.

UPDATE 10:03 - Texas, Utah to McCain and Iowa to Obama.  The biggest news is the Mississippi Senate race goes to the incumbent Republican.  This means it will require an upset by the Dems to get to 60 votes.

UPDATE 11:00 - Obama wins California and that seals it.  Welcome President Obama.  Good night and good luck, America.

That is all.

2008 College Football, Top 25 - Week 11

Well that stunk!  It was really, really bad.  Were it not for the complete and utter self-destruction, I'd be angry.  As it is, I am still in shock.  I can't even hand it to Florida.  Georgia just didn't show up to play.  Just terrible!  Texas also had their first loss after running the table against Oklahoma, Missouri and Oklahoma State.  It was that last landmine against Texas Tech that killed them. Now Texas Tech gets a turn at that same table running with games against Oklahoma State and Oklahoma.  Can they do it without a loss?  And if they do, what happens with a three way tie in the Big 12 South?  It could get ugly.  The winner this weekend?  Idle Penn State.  Let's take a look at the rankings:

1. Penn State (9-0)
2. Alabama (9-0)
3. Florida (7-1)
4. Texas Tech (9-0)
5. Texas (8-1)
6. Oklahoma (8-1)
7. USC (7-1)
8. Utah (9-0)
9. Boise State (8-0)
10. Oklahoma State (8-1)
11. TCU (9-1)
12. Georgia (7-2)
13. Ohio State (7-2)
14. Missouri (7-2)
15. LSU (6-2)
16. BYU (8-1)
17. Ball State (8-0)
18. Maryland (6-2)
19. California (6-2)
20. Michigan State (8-2)
21. Georgia Tech (7-2)
22. North Carolina (6-2)
23. Florida State (6-2)
24. West Virginia (6-2)
25. Northwestern (7-2)

Truly, the biggest loser this weekend was Tulsa who could not get past a middling SEC team in Arkansas.  They fall right out of the top 25.  Minnesota too is the least of the two loss teams and they too fall out.  I had to re-figure the final 8 teams and I think it's a good ranking of those 2 loss teams.

This coming week gives us some more contests to see who is real and who is pretending.  On Wednesday night, Ball State gets another test against Northern Illinois.  Can they stay undefeated?  They have both Central Michigan and Western Michigan to go through before we find that out.  And on Thursday night, we see a great contest between TCU and Utah.  The winner is in the top ten.  The loser falls.

And on Saturday, there are certainly some big games - Alabama will need to get by LSU to stay undefeated, Texas Tech gets Oklahoma State, Ohio State gets Northwestern and down the line Georgia Tech and North Carolina duke it out to see who stays alive for the ACC Coastal division.

As for my Dawgs...well, unless somehow Florida can lose back to back games against Vanderbilt and South Carolina, then the season is effectively over.  Georgia will go bowling but the best we can hope for at this point is the Capital One Bowl.  Ugh.  It didn't have to be this way but it required Georgia showing up to play on Saturday.  They didn't.  Oh, the humanity!  That is all.

Congrats to the Phillies

I can't believe I just said that but I must give congrats to the only correct pick I made in the postseason - even though I didn't want them to win.  The rain delayed 5th game was a true let down to the Rays, especially after they'd tied the game Monday night.  But as I looked at the teams before the series began, I just saw a better all around team in the Phillies and they'd played that way for a 4 games to 1 World Championship.  And then, of course, Philadelphia fans riot in the streets.  Got to love those fans.  You stay classy, Philly.  That is all.