eddietorializing

Fit for a Queen

2011-11-06T14:38:00.000-08:00

The following is a piece done for my creative writing class. The assignment was to write a scenario in which a couple is shopping for a mattress. There is something going on between them - or one or both of them have a secret. We could not reference the conflict or secret directly. I didn't want my conflict/secret to be something obvious (like cheating or debt) yet wanted it grounded in reality. I wanted the scenario to feel authentic. Hope you enjoy the read - and feel free to comment what you believe the characters' inner conflict/secret to be!

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“Excuse me sir, you’re going to have to leave your soft drink outside.”

The sales clerk’s smug demeanor gave the impression he enjoyed enforcing this rule.

“Store policy: No food or drink allowed in the show room.”

Jeff looked at his wife and shrugged his shoulders. He glanced at his liter of Pepsi and shook his head as he walked out.

Joan waited for the door to close before addressing the clerk.

“He is a diabetic. If he faints, it’s on you and your stupid store policy,” she snipped.

“We’re a furniture and mattress store,” the clerk said through a wry smile. “If he faints, we’ll pull out a sofa.”

Jeff walked back into the store and straddled up to his wife.

Joan examined his body language.

“Feeling alright?” she asked.

Jeff gazed at the floor.

“I’m fine.”

“How may I be of assistance to you two today?” the clerk asked.

“We’re looking for a queen-sized mattress,” Joan said.

“Maybe a king,” Jeff chimed without looking up.

The clerk embraced the opportunity to upsell.

“A king for the king?”

Joan grew irritated.

“A queen for the king.”

Jeff looked up.

“A queen or a king? For a queen…and…”

Joan interrupted.

“We’re getting a mattress. You sell them here, don’t you?”

The clerk chuckled up a shit-eating grin and took a second to collect himself.

“We sell plenty of them. Right this way.”

With a wave, the clerk turned and headed down a laminate aisle towards the mattress section. Joan whispered to Jeff as they followed a few steps behind.

“We can’t afford a king. We don’t need one anyway.”

“Let’s just see what they’ve got. It’s gotta be just right. No more sleepless nights,” said Jeff.

“You’ll sleep fine after your surgery,” said Joan. “I’ve been sleepin’ like a baby since I had mine.”

“I wish it was that easy, Joan.” said Jeff. “I just want to make sure it’s big enough for both of us.”

“After you get your surgery, there will be room for three of us,” said Joan.

“Well, we’ll see about that,” said Jeff. “We don’t even know if the insurance is going to cover me; you know how…”

Joan stopped in her tracks.

“Jeff! Why are you always so pessimistic?! You’ll be covered same as I was; you’ll lose your weight and we’ll be healthy enough to live the life we’d always imagined!”

“I wish it was that easy, Joan,” said Jeff.

Joan grew incensed.

“How the hell are you going to accomplish anything with that attitude?! How are we ever going to accomplish anything!?”

Jeff stared at the floor.

“You’re right. I’m sorry,” he said.

“Is everything alright?” the clerk asked.

Jeff looked up at Joan.

“We’re fine.”

“Excellent! Let me show you what we have available first for the queen.” the clerk replied.

Joan and Jeff proceeded to follow the clerk a few more steps as he began his schtick.

“Most important thing is getting the proper support. A man of your size is going to require something very firm.”

“He will be losing a considerable amount of weight soon. He’s having gastric bypass surgery,” Joan said.

The clerk feigned interest.

“Oh, wow! Congratulations! And good luck. I’m sure that’s a little bit scary for you. When is the operation?”

“Well, we’re still waiting on approval from the insurance company before we can actually set a date,” Jeff answered.

Joan jumped in.

“We should know any day now. I had the surgery myself a year ago. Can you believe I used to be twice this size? After the surgery, the pounds just melt right off. I feel like a brand new person.”

“Yeah. Getting the insurance coverage is probably the hardest part.” Jeff said. “I was denied once before. You have to provide a lot of documentation showing how other diet and exercise plans have failed in the past. It’s definitely not a guaranteed thing.”

The clerk laughed.

“I’ll bet! They can’t just cover every Joey Baggadonuts who wants to shed a couple pounds!”

Jeff stared at the mattress. Joan forced a smile.

“Yeah, but Jeff’ll get approved. Last time was a fluke. He’s been seeing a physician about his weight for years. They’ve tried everything. Nothing has worked for him. This is his last chance,” said Joan.

Jeff continued to stare at the mattress. Joan snapped her fingers to break his gaze. Jeff forced a smile.

“Well perhaps it’d be wise to come back after the surgery?” the clerk suggested.

“No. That’s not gonna happen,” Jeff said.

“He needs something decent to sleep on or he might not even make it to surgery,” Joan said.

“Oh, so the mattress is just for him?” the clerk asked.

Joan and Jeff blurted differing answers in unison. They looked at each other. Jeff looked down at the floor.

The clerk laughed.

“Well, it looks like the only one who can truly answer that — is the insurance company.”

How can a team score only one point in a game? Three things you might not know about high school football

2011-09-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

As a four-year high school football player and lifelong football fan, I thought I knew all of the ins and outs of the game. After recently becoming a high school football official, I now know that was not entirely true. There are a few unique characteristics of the high school rules book that make the game different than the game played in the NFL. This first one might even win you a bar bet.

How a team can score only one point in a game

Diehard football fans will likely tell you this is an impossibility. Casual fans will attempt to think up ways for this situation to occur (i.e. "A touchdown was scored, the extra point was kicked, the touchdown gets called off for a penalty?"). The answer is something much more basic, but much less likely to occur: The team won by forfeit.

According to Rule 8-1, the final score of a forfeited game is "Offended Team: 1, Opponent: 0". The exception to this is if the offended team is ahead at the time of the forfeit; in which case the score at the time of forfeiture stands. Thus, the only way a team can score only one point in a game is if they win by forfeit before a game begins, or after a game in which they were tied with or losing to their opponent.

Catchability is not a factor in determining pass interference

The NFL's pass interference rule specifies a few actions that do not constitute pass interference. One of them includes this article:

(c) Contact that would normally be considered pass interference, but the pass is clearly uncatchable by the involved players.

The high school rule book has no such article. It does not include catchability as a factor in determining pass interference. While a holding call may be more appropriate on a ball that is clearly uncatchable, pass interference may be called no matter how close the ball was to the intended receiver.

There is no consideration of the "pocket" in ruling itentional grounding

The pocket area (a point two yards outside of either offensive tackle or pass protecting tight end) is used to determine intentional grounding in the NFL. A player may throw the ball away to avoid a loss if he is outside of the pocket and behind the line of scrimmage.

In high school, a player who throws a ball away to avoid a loss is penalized for intentional grounding whether he is inside or outside of the pocket area. However, it is legal for a player to throw the ball away so long as it is a backwards pass out of bounds behind the line of scrimmage.

I'm sure there are other idiosyncrasies of the high school football game that I did not note. Like I said, I'm new to this (not an expert!). I hope you found some of this interesting anyhow. At the least, you're now prepared to stump your football fiend friend and win a round of drinks. You can thank me with one next time you see me!

The greatest weight loss secret: Revealed!

2011-09-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

Have you ever noticed how every women's health and fitness magazine cover is essentially the same? Each issue sells faster, easier and "secret" ways to improve your health. Maybe I'm making a sweeping generalization here (full disclosure: I currently subscribe to zero women's health magazines) but I think I'm onto something.

Fitness magazines geared toward men have a tendency to do the same. I suppose it's only natural to be attracted to things we think will help improve our lives. On the surface, these headlines and related articles appear to be part of a solution to the obesity epidemic; that they are promoting health and wellness. You might think these magazines are a step in the right direction. I don't.

The problem with them is the perpetuation of myths like "quick fix" diets and short term workouts as healthy and reasonable ways to improve your health. Magazines like Self pander to the lazy attitudes that have caused our epidemic in the first place. Just think of how many times you've seen covers featuring a time promise (Lose 10 pounds in 25 days! 5-minute abs!) or using variations of buzz words like "quick", "easy", "fast", "simple", or "secrets". Don't think this is more perception than reality. Take a look at how often the words are used on the past seven covers.

Maybe I am onto something.

You may note the minimal use of buzz words on April's cover and that I left September off the chart. Those two covers earn bonus points for creativity. Rather than the usual buzz words, April's cover uses the phrase "Without Even Trying"; September's cover opts for verbiage such as "erase" and "melt" to sensationalize the simplicity of weight loss. But let's be honest: If weight loss really could come easy, they wouldn't be selling so many damn magazines.

What is perhaps most troublesome about the headlines and promises of fad diets, supplements and workouts is the damage it has done to the collective American psyche. It trains us to believe easy solutions are out there; that there are shortcuts to be found. Furthermore, pairing these headlines with the incessant imagery of beautiful fitness models creates a culture that fosters insecurity, anxiety and depression in hyper-conscious young women.

I've seen the consequences first hand. A few years ago, I visited my younger sister at her university dormitory. I was surprised to find the only food she had in her apartment style dorm room was a bag of tortilla chips. I also found a container of extreme fat burning diet pills. On the mirror hanging in her bedroom hung photographs of beautiful women torn from women's fitness magazines. I asked about them. "That's what I have to look like this summer," she replied.

Tragically, she didn't look anything like those models that summer. She had a heart attack the next day. The heart attack caused a blood clot which cut off oxygen to her brain and has left her in a persistent vegetative state. While the cause of the heart attack was never determined, I suspect the extreme fat burning supplements, poor diet and anxiety she'd been treated for had something to do with it.

She was looking for a shortcut. She was looking for the secret to obtaining the idealized female body image she saw in the magazines. The truth is, if you want to reap the benefits of a healthier lifestyle, you have to understand the greatest weight loss secret there is: There are no secrets. You will not find the answer to your weight loss struggles in a magazine, in a pill, in a book, online, or on a DVD. Sure there are plenty of tips you can use from these sources, but that inspiration should come only after you've found the interior motivation necessary for a workout plan to succeed.

If you're serious about improving your health, put down the magazine, shut off the computer and get your workout gear ready. Knowledge of fitness tips and techniques won't mean a thing until you know why you are pursuing fitness improvement and are completely convinced you really, really want it. In short, you already hold the secret to your success. And the place to find it, is on the track.

Before you lace 'em up, continue to The greatest weight loss secret: Revealed! Part 2 for ways to find and utilize motivation for serious and lasting results.

The greatest weight loss secret: Revealed! Part 2

2011-09-11T14:32:00.000-07:00

Marketers often exploit our desire for shortcuts and quick fixes. But your physical well-being is not something that you can cheat. If you want to experience a lifestyle change (which weight loss requires), you will need to change your attitude first. Know this up front: This will not be easy. If that's tough to swallow, wash it down with this: That's exactly the point. As Andrew Carnegie said, "Anything in life worth having is worth working for."

But do not be afraid. There is no reason to dread this. The physical demands of fitness training will seem minuscule once you have the appropriate mindset.

Finding your spark of motivation

I have a personal story to share. I finished my freshman year of college tipping the scales at more than 225 pounds. I was greater than 15% body fat. I was not pursuing fitness but rather relying on the active metabolism I'd always possessed in my youth. The most troubling part was, I didn't even recognize how much I was letting my physical condition slip.

Then one day while on break at my summer job, a co-worker who I went to high school with relayed to me an exchange he had with a former friend of mine. Somehow I'd come up in their conversation and apparently she'd told him, "Eddie Rybarski got fat." Now it may not have been her place to say this, or his place to let me know she said so, but I'm sure glad they did. Those words stuck with me, and provided the spark I needed to change my lifestyle.

When I got home from work that day, I went for a run. I did the same thing the next day after work. And again after work the day after that. And again after every day of work for the rest of summer. If there was ever a day or a moment during my run I felt like giving up, I simply thought of those words that I was determined to defeat: "Eddie Rybarski got fat".

I wore a rubber band around my wrist to remind me of these words. Before long, the rubber band came to represent a number of different thoughts that motivated me. I found that by keeping my train of thought narrowed to a few key motivating ideas, the run became nothing to do with exercise or fitness. It was about proving people wrong. It was about becoming a better person.

By the end of summer, I'd lost more than 35 pounds. I'd achieved these results without paying much of any attention to my diet. I simply ran the same three mile route as well as I could every day. As the pounds came off, the exercise came easier. I just ran harder.

If you're looking for these kind of results, try doing the same. Find a spark of motivation - something that really motivates you at your core - and let it drive you. If you can't find one off-hand, search for it while you exercise. Or borrow mine. Imagine a person you greatly respect saying you "got fat" or some other derogatory comment that gets under your skin. Once you've found your spark, focus on it intently before workouts and during periods of weakness.

"This path I'm running, I must run alone"

Many people who are trying to foster a new workout regimen look to a partner or trainer for encouragement. The popular belief is that you will be more likely to stick to your plan if you have someone to keep you accountable. But this thinking is flawed. True change must come from within. The best way to adopt better fitness habits is to become fully convinced that you are doing so because you really, really want to.

One of the reasons I think my method of weight loss was so effective was the solitary approach I took to exercise. Anders Erricsson, a psychologist from Florida State University in Tallahassee, has spent the past 20 years studying geniuses, prodigies and superior performers in fields such as sports, the arts, and entertainment. His work, as cited in The New Brain, reinforces the benefits of this method.

"Ericsson is firmly convinced that there are no special inherited qualities that distinguish persons with expert abilities. The key ingredient it turns out to be the willingness to 'stretch yourself to the limit and increase your control over your performance,'...

Ericsson found a...pattern of intense solitary, deliberate practice among superior performing athletes, chess players, and mathematicians.

He concludes, 'For the superior performer the goal isn't jut repeating the same thing again and again but achieving higher levels of control over every aspect of their performance. That's why they don't find practice boring. Each practice session they are working on doing something better than they did last time.'"

With a partner, it becomes essentially impossible to completely lose yourself in your motivation and improve your mind-body connection. Your potential will be limited by chatter, trying to maintain an even pace, and any number of distractions. For this reason, I also advise leaving the headphones at home. Even though you are alone, you are still flooding your mind with noise and thoughts that can interfere with the ability to properly motivate and pace yourself.

Work OUT

Forgive the title of this section if it is a poor attempt at trying to creatively say "workout outside".

I've found running outside to be beneficial in a number of ways. Aside from being a great place for solitary exercise (which is practically impossible to find at the gym), the outdoors provide a natural terrain that our bodies were designed to scamper over. It can help you get in touch with your "animal instinct" and is an abundant source of fresh oxygen for your mind and respiratory system. Gyms can be a great way to get a workout in when the weather does not permit outdoor exercise, but workout machines tend to isolate certain body parts and can complicate basic fitness goals.

But the greatest advantage to exercising (specifically running) outdoors is that it encourages you to truly stretch your limits. It is way too easy to give up on your run on a treadmill. How easy is it to give up on a run when you are two miles from home? My advice for runners at any level of fitness is to run as far as they can before they feel they absolutely MUST turn back. Chances are, this distance will be much farther than you would have done on a treadmill or if you'd planned your distance in advance. You need to learn to listen to your body for your fitness goals to succeed. This is a great way to start doing so.

Visualize

Your primary motivator will likely invoke visual thoughts and emotions you should apply in your training as well. Start using them to enhance your focus. If it's a case of someone bad-mouthing you, imagine them doing so. If your spark is a sleight you received by a former friend, coach or employer, imagine them on the side of the road watching.

When you start thinking visually, you expand your motivational opportunities exponentially. Your spark will likely spawn other ideas from which you draw motivation. If you initially imagine an individual person who has wronged you, you can easily begin to imagine others as well. While spite or anger can serve as a great impetus for exercise, pride is what I've found helps sustain it.

When I exercise nowadays, I rarely need to think back to my primary motivator. Instead I imagine the people I love watching me. This visualization can take many forms. I can imagine crowds on the side of the path shouting my name, a stadium of friends and family cheering wildly for me, or even how individuals might react to watching me compete on television. When I can "see" and feel the pride they have for my effort, my energy and enthusiasm is boundless.

(If you find visualization is something you are struggling with using effectively, I suggest picking up The Mental Edge).

Conclusion

The greatest weight loss secret is there are no secrets! There are countless methods and programs for exercise, but none better than the one you teach yourself. You will hold yourself to it because you are using your core motivations, listening to your body and doing it because you really, really want to. Once you have that kind of self discipline, you will be able to accomplish anything you set your mind to.

Thanks for reading. As always, please contribute any thoughts or opinions relating to this post in the comment section below.

Oregon Park District Dedicates Harry Nurmet Mural Replica

2011-02-16T14:16:00.000-08:00

Reported by: Eddie Rybarski

Lifelong Oregon resident Jon Barnhart remembers watching local artist Harry Nurmet paint a mural in 1976 for America's bicentennial celebration. Nurmet's craftmanship left a big impression on Barnhart.

"Harry Nurmet was an incredible artist and I looked up to him," said Barnhart. "His artwork was across the board. There was no subject matter he painted that wasn't appealing."

Barnhart is now an artist himself in addition to serving as Natural Resource Manager for the Oregon Park District. Recently the park district decide to replicate the mural in cooperation with the Oregon School District to honor the now deceased Nurmet. Naturally, it was Barnhart, with the help of Oregon High School students Jeanine Sheir and Eli Murray, who took on the job.

The new mural has a few touches the old one (since faded and obstructed by modern development) didn't have.

"I was thinking as to how I could paint the mural and recreate it in a way that would make Harry proud," said Barnhart. "I've added...some historical data to explain Blackhawk (Monument) being created by Lorado Taft when it was dedicated in 1911. And of course the blue ribbon that represented the Oregon Rock River. We have the bald eagle there which we have here in Oregon quite often when the river freezes over. It's kind of a history lesson as well as a dedication to Harry Nurmet."

In addition to the modifications in the work itself, Barnhart believes a new location - on the south wall of Max Media facing Route 64 - will enhance the viewing experience.

"When people stop here at the stop (light), a lot of times they have nothing to do but wait for the light to change. (Now) they can simply look to the right and see the billboard."

Barnhart says he hopes residents get the same feeling Nurmet had about the Oregon area.

"A love of community. Maybe it will bestow a sense of pride to where people will want to contribute to the community."

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Originally posted on MyStateline.com

Winnebago Farmer Donates $2,500 Prize to Fire Protection District

2011-02-15T14:26:00.000-08:00

Reported by: Eddie Rybarski

Mary Cross' husband Bill served on the Win-Bur-Sew Fire Protection District's Board of Trustees for more than 27 years. So when she found out she had been chosen the winner of a $2,500 prize to be donated to her favorite local non-profit, her decision was a no-brainer.

"The fire department is one of the most vital things we can belong to," said Cross. "They're kind of like a family to us, so I'm just grateful that I won."

The prize was part of the America's Farmers Grow Communities program, offered through the Monsanto Fund. The program covers 1,205 counties across 38 states. Cross, who has been farming in Winnebago for about 50 years, became involved in the program after Monsanto called her suggesting she sign up.

"I don't usually participate in anything over the phone but I knew Monsanto and I thought they'd be fine to do it," said Cross. "So I went ahead and I happened to be chosen. I was very elated."

Win-Bur-Sew Fire Protection District Fire Chief Robert Martin says the donation will help secure the safety of area farmers.

"Since it came from the ag field, we're going to put it right back into ag-related rescue equipment and training," said Martin.

Some examples Martin cited include a farm medic program dealing with treatment of patients injured in farm-related accidents and specialized extrication equipment for rollovers.

"Extrication equipment on farm vehicles is completely different than automobiles. Steel is a lot thicker, more difficult to do," said Martin. "We're really excited this money will go a long way to get us trained and buy some new equipment to help with extrications if we need to."

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Originally posted on MyStateline.com

Does the media sell negativity?

2010-11-22T16:53:00.000-08:00

“The news” (as a whole) is widely perceived to feast on negativity and "sell" tragedy. It's a big part of the reason so many people don’t regularly read or watch the news. But is this perception a reality? If not; why does it seem so patently true? I have a few reasons.

1. Negative stories are generally most newsworthy

There are a few criteria used to determine a story's newsworthiness: timing, significance, proximity, prominence and human interest. Mostly due to significance and prominence, negative stories generally best fit the criteria. That doesn't mean positive stories aren't sought after, reported and published. Countless positive or "neutral" news stories are reported and published every day. In fact, many news operations make deliberate efforts to highlight them. Most of the time, they just aren’t newsworthy enough for the front page of the newspaper or lead story of the nightly newscast.

2. Negative stories captivate and have the greatest impact

Most people hear what they want to hear and see what they want to see (Don't like it? Change the channel/turn the page/ignore it). When it comes to news, people want news that is relevant...meaningful...impactful to their lives. Most positive news stories just don't have as great of an impact on an audience.

For example, if you’re watching or reading the news and see these three stories:

a) Area synagogue receives $2 million donation for major renovation
b) Local non-profit donates $10,000 to combat Muscular Dystrophy
c) Drunk driver kills father and son in early morning accident

Which story are you going to remember? Which story will you gossip with your friends about? Which story would you click on and/or share with your friends on the internet? Most often, it's the tragic one. The positive ones are forgotten. The media doesn’t sell tragedy as much as the public feeds on it.

So why do we do that? Why do we feed on negative stories even when we say we want positive stories? Part of it has to do with wanting to be relevant and wanting to discuss the most "newsworthy" issues ourselves; but there might be a largely under acknowledged reason as well.

3. Good news can feel like bad news/Bad news can feel like good news

When you hear or read a positive story, how does it make you feel? Think about that…and let’s go back to the above examples. Unless you are Jewish or have a family member suffering with Muscular Dystrophy, you probably don’t care much about the kind-hearted donations. Moreover, it can even make people feel bitter or resentful. When you hear the news you’ll probably think “That’s nice. There are still good people in the world.” But after you might think “I wish I was as fortunate.”

Bad news has the opposite effect. When you first hear of the father and son, you immediately sympathize. Your heart goes out to the unfortunate victims. How do you feel after the story digests? You probably feel grateful to be alive and appreciative of your relatively positive situation in life – no matter how good or bad your situation really is. The stressors that ate at you before are temporarily relieved; the negative story (however tragic) gave you a fresh, new perspective on life.

There may be much more to this discussion that I haven’t considered. This is just my current response to the blame the media receives for spreading negativity. The truth is, positive stories are rarely significant enough to impact a mass audience - but they are everywhere. If you really want to see or hear them, just look for them. If you're like most people, you’ll see what you want to see and hear what you want to hear.

As always, feel free to leave your comments publicly or anonymously below.

Transcontinental trek to fight Multiple Sclerosis

2010-08-01T21:43:00.000-07:00

By Eddie Rybarski

MENDOTA, IL (WREX) -- Ashley Kumlien's mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 28 years ago -- two years before the 26-year-old Brookfield, WI woman was born. Watching her mother deal with the debilitating disease has motivated Ashley to use her own talents to the best of their ability.

"Even though she has some handicaps and disabilities from the disease, she really wakes up everyday and is thankful for the things she can still do, and she's very perseverant about her life. So I wanted to use my love of running...to do something big to raise money and awareness for M.S.," said Kumlien.

So Ashley hatched a big idea. She would run the length of the continental United States -- from San Francisco to New York City -- while securing sponsorships and receiving donations along the way. Ashley says at first, even her parents were wary.

"My parents were a little silent when I told them about what I wanted to do, but it only took a day for the idea to set in. They asked me later on, the next day basically, 'How do you plan on accomplishing this?' and 'What do you plan on doing?' Once I told them my plans and I had basically an answer to every question they gave me, they realized I was serious about it."

With the support of her parents and fiance Andrew Dale, Ashley hit the ground running. Last year, she founded a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization named "MS Run the US" and worked to obtain several major sponsorships. A family from Chicago donated an R.V. and a family in San Francisco donated a used car. Then, on March 22, Ashley embarked on her 3,230 mile transcontinental trek across the United States. She runs 20-30 miles a day, six days a week. As remarkable as that is, Ashley says the running hasn't been the most challenging part.

"The running in the first two weeks was stressful but it wasn't the hardest thing I've ever experienced. Since then my body and endurance have just grown so the running isn't as hard as you would think it'd be," said Kumlien. "I would say the biggest challenges came to me before I even started running -- obtaining...the things we would need in order to make this run possible. It was more of just convincing people that it was something I was capable of doing without having any evidence besides my running ability."

More than four months into the run, Ashley has turned her skeptics into believers.

"Now that people can see that I'm capable of running this, it's gone from 'You're crazy' to 'You're inspiring," so that's nice to know that people have changed their opinions a little bit about how much the human body can endure in a short amount of time," Kumlien said. "My mom's just elated about it and she's just really proud and probably equally as proud as I am of her and the way she lives her life."

It was the thought of her mother's pride and courage that has helped Ashley get to this point in her journey.

"Anytime I hit a wall or reached an obstacle, felt stressed out or anything you can imagine feeling with doing something like this, I would think of my mom and how she approaches every day. She doesn't get a break from living with this disease and I really want to do something about it so I don't want to take a break from this. So those obstacles were really overcome with her in mind and using her examples to lead my life."

Passing through Mendota yesterday and onward to Sandwich today, Ashley has run more than 2,250 miles and raised more than $24,000. While she's already traveled roughly 7/10 of her journey, she says she is still a long way from her much larger goal.

"My sense of accomplishment will be when we reach our $500,000 goal. Once we reach that, then I can say me, my fiance and everyone who's supported 'MS Run the US' has really accomplished something big," said Kumlien. "With the fundraisers and pledges I've seen on TV and throughout America, I know we can raise thousands and thousands of dollars in just a couple minutes. So I fully believe that people that hear this story look into it and they see the profile that I put up of my mom and the way she lives her life; they'll look into M.S. a little bit more and realize this is a big act for a really good cause."

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To learn more about "MS Run the US" and Ashley's mission, you can visit the MS Run the US website. You can also follow it on Facebook and Twitter.

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Original post found here

Six reasons why I believe LeBron will become a Bull

2010-07-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

Despite the rumors, reports and speculation that say otherwise, it is my belief King James is coming to take his throne in Chicago. For the past year I would have put money on the Knicks or Nets. But a few things have happened over the last couple months that slowly started changing my mind. The more I thought about it, the more I thought LeBron will be wearing a #6 Bulls jersey next season -- here are six reasons why.

1. Pieces already in place: Of the six teams bidding for LeBron, the Bulls have the second best roster for LeBron to join (short of the stacked combo of Wade-Bosh on the Heat). LeBron loves Derrick Rose (what's not to love?) and would fit in extraordinarily well in a starting five of Rose, Luol Deng, (former teammate) Carlos Boozer and Joakim Noah. Combine that with the addition of head coach Tom Thibodeau (who is represented by the same agency as LeBron), and you have a young core group of men who could very well dominate the NBA East for the next decade.

2. It would be LeBron's team: You may have the impression that LeBron is an egomaniacal narcissist. You may not be incorrect in that notion. Either way, LeBron has become accustomed to being the star of the show (referring to his teammates as "the supporting cast" often in the past). Many criticize that joining the Heat would be taking the easy way to glory, as they would surely win championships -- but it would still be Dwyane Wade's team. By joining the Bulls instead of a star-studded Heat team, LeBron is still the star. While Derrick Rose has superstar potential, he is very humble and unselfish. Carlos Boozer may be an all-star but has shared the stage with LeBron in the past, and lets his game do the talking.

3. Big market marketing: The greatest determining factor in LeBron's decision is how it is tied to marketing dollars. Many people would argue winning should be (or is) the greatest factor -- and they are correct, because winning championships is the greatest way to generate marketing revenue. Chicago isn't on the scale of New York or Los Angeles when it comes to market size; but it tops Miami and Cleveland. It's market size, combined with his opportunity to win several championships makes Chicago a better option than any of the other cities.

4. Bulls legacy: LeBron was a Bulls fan in his youth and idolized Michael Jordan. I think this may be one of the most underrated aspects of LeBron's decision. Think about your childhood and what you aspired to be. If you grew up wanting to be a Chicago Bull -- you'd probably become a Chicago Bull if given the opportunity (and combined with all other factors). LeBron has spoken favorably about Bulls fans, saying what an honor it is to play in front of them and earn their respect. Bulls fans have seen greatness, he reasons, and are best at deciding who possesses it.

5. Jordan legacy: Since Michael Jordan passed his prime, the NBA and basketball fans have been eager to annoint an heir to "His Airness". It wasn't Jerry Stackhouse. It probably could be Kobe Bryant. But the only player with a chance of surpassing Jordan's greatness is "The Chosen One" -- King James. The thing that first gave me the idea that LeBron was considering the Bulls was when he announced he will change his jersey number to "6" next season out of respect for M.J. It dawned on me that he may be thinking forward to joining the Bulls, where he wouldn't be able to wear #23 anyways.

6. The city itself: Chicago is...LeBron's kind of town. Chicago is...the perfect fit for LeBron. LeBron spent time here playing basketball growing up and it probably had a significant impact on him. Many people LeBron's (and my) age can relate. It's people, charm, architecture and activities provide everything you'd want in a place to call home. It's not oversized (like New York) and it's people are incredibly loyal and passionate about their sports teams (not like Los Angeles or Miami). LeBron is a Midwesterner and probably feels most comfortable in the Midwest. Next to Cleveland, Chicago is the destination LeBron would most likely want to call home.

Amidst all the clutter and noise people are spewing over this free agent fracas, I think these reasons will be why LeBron will join the Chicago Bulls. I hope I'm right, and can't wait to find out tonight during "The Decision" at 8:00 CST on ESPN. If you're one of those who can't stand the hype surrounding LBJ's announcement, well? In the words of Rasheed Wallace -- "This ain't basketball. This is entertainment." Enjoy the show.

Lifelong Belvidere family recipient of new home

2010-05-06T21:50:00.000-07:00

By Eddie Rybarski

BELVIDERE (WREX) - Habitat for Humanity of Boone County broke ground on its newest project today.

The recipient of the new home is the Jones family, who are lifelong Belvidere residents.

The Jones' were selected after a process that included a review of application, initial interview, home visits by a committee, and a final review and decision by the Habitat for Humanity of Boone County Board. "What we're looking for is the person who normally wouldn't qualify at the bank," said Karl Otto, who serves on the board. "Mr. Jones has a regular job and has been employed for a while. And the sense that they've lived in the community and have been involved--it's someone we're helping out."

Actual construction will begin May 22, and will continue every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday until the home is finished.

"I was very thankful for the community and all these churches that give a helping hand to the people in need," said Rob Jones.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Boone County for this project. The volunteer-based organization has finished two homes in the past couple years; one on Fifth St. and one on Menomonie St.
____________

Original post found here

Political decorum should be a "big f***in' deal"

2010-03-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

Whether you believe curse words are offensive or just a silly taboo, I think we can all agree there is a time and place to use them. That said, how is the Vice President of the United States uncognizant enough to drop "the f-bomb" within range of a microphone he just spoke into?

I personally am not offended by the VP's choice of words; in fact, I'd say they are a pretty accurate assessment of the health care bill's impact. The point is - there are people offended by foul language. Thus public figures need to have the decency to not use such language in situations where those people may hear or see it.

But who am I to give etiquette lessons to the country's second-in-command? While it appears to be an unintentional faux pas, it's possible he knew gosh/golly dang/darn well what he was doing. Was he not thinking, or just not caring? Either way, it amounts to a celebration of the legislation's triumph; emphasizing its importance in what could be its lasting legacy. "That health care bill? That was a big f***in' deal."

Sadly, Biden's blasphemy may be revered by many of his supporters. We've seen the political realm support those who use impetuous declarations as a means to "make a statement." When Rep. Joe Wilson famously shouted "You lie!" during President Obama's address to a joint session of Congress, the South Carolina Republican reportedly raked in over $1 million in donations following the incident. The House voted to rebuke Rep. Wilson, but the publicity and support he received far outweighed the House's slap on the wrist.

Last Sunday, Rep. Randy Neugebauer, R-Tex., appeared to imitate Rep. Wilson's strategy by blurting out "it's a baby killer!" from the House floor as Rep. Bart Stupak, D-Mich., defended his his change of position on health care legislation. Rep. Neugebauer has not been admonished for his breach of decorum (there were bigger issues at stake), yet he is immediately capitalizing on the publicity. Today he released a new campaign ad vowing to "continue to speak with the same passion that I spoke last night" on behalf of the unborn.

This approach was strikingly similar to Rep. Wilson's campaign strategy that worked so well: Use the new publicity to poise yourself as a strong voice who will never quit speaking out. Make sure to announce this in a campaign ad featuring your wife (I'm sorry, but I hate the Neugebauers' posturing. It doesn't relate to his message - she's just standing there with wandering eyes).

As long as the positive benefits of these public utterances exceed the negative reaction, politicians will continue to use them to champion their causes. Formal sanctions such as rebukes, censures, reprimands and fines should be issued in every lapse of decorum, but voting on such issues is a waste of time. It's up to politicians to maintain their decency out of respect for themselves and the people they represent. It's up to voters and donors to not support those who boorishly do not.

Have fun with your March Madness bracket

2010-03-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, when everyone and their grandmother fills out a March Madness bracket and watches college basketball games they otherwise would have no interest in. The majority of people use the same rules of thumb to predict the winners, but is that the best way to do it?

The casual fan doesn't want to fill out their bracket randomly, but they won't spend all day on it either. Therefore they rely on a recognition heuristic to choose the winners. Teams like Duke, Kansas and Kentucky are elite basketball programs that most people are familiar with - and for good reason. This can be a very safe way to pick winners. Others use seeding as a key indicator; reasoning the higher seed should probably win. These methods are the quickest and easiest way to accurately determine winners.

So while everyone else picks based on what they believe is the most relevant information, other methods may stand the best chance at winning. Because the majority of people in your pool used a nearly identical strategy, most of their brackets will be busted if one of the favorites is upset. So why not be creative?

Let a different kind of one-reason decision making guide your selections. It doesn't have to be the most relevant information; but it will be so much more enjoyable if it works in your favor. One of my brackets is based on teams which are better at offensive rebounding. You could do it on anything; say, free throw shooting, the schools you'd most like to visit, or whichever team comes first in alphabetical order (if Baylor and Brigham Young meet in the Championship Game, you'll probably be the only one who picked it, and you'll be glad you did!).

Another simple strategy is choosing the Championship Game match-up first then working your way out. Since the last rounds of the tournament are where bracket pools are won and lost, worry less about picking long shots and work on nailing down the final two teams. The four #1 seeds have the best odds at winning the championship, so why not put them in your Final Four right away and work your way out?

As a cheat sheet, you can go ahead and fill in those teams you feel most strongly about, then sprinkle in some upsets like these on the fringes.

Midwest Region

#11 San Diego St. over #6 Tennessee
Either #10 Georgia Tech or #7 Oklahoma State over #2 Ohio State: I've taken GT and OK St. equally as many times in my 10 brackets (translation: 5 GT, 5 OK St.) and have taken either over OSU half the time before losing to Georgetown

West Region

#13 Murray State over #4 Vanderbilt in the first round, then past #5 Butler to advance to the Sweet 16
#10 Florida over #7 BYU
#3 Pittsburgh over #2 Kansas St. (in 40% of my brackets) and over Syracuse (30%)

East Region

#5 Temple over #4 Wisconsin (in 50% of my brackets)
#11 Washington (30% of my brackets) over #6 Marquette, either beating #3 New Mexico (80%). The disparity in these picks are fine because any of them should lose to West Virginia in the Sweet 16
#10 Missouri over #7 Clemson (70% of my brackets)
#2 West Virginia over #1 Kentucky (50%)

South Region

#9 Louisville over #8 California
#13 Siena over #4 Purdue
#10 St. Mary's over #7 Richmond (40% of my brackets)
#3 Baylor over #2 Villanova in the Sweet 16 (60%)
#3 Baylor over #1 Duke (40%)

However this tournament plays out, it'll be fun to watch. Honestly, I haven't really engaged in the March Madness mayhem too much in the past few years (I didn't bet in an actual pool last year and this is the first time I've filled out multiple brackets). I'll follow up with how they play out.

"Free Tili?" Not on My Watch (Satire)

2010-02-25T12:25:00.000-08:00

A killer whale kills a trainer at SeaWorld and people want it freed back into the wild? Able to roam the great seas as he pleases; free to kill again if he so chooses? What kind of example does this set for the other whales? Kill a human and get liberated from captivity? I don't think so.

I understand the marine park pool is not the natural habit of "Tilikum" and his kind, so it may only be natural for an ornery orca to lash out every now and again. But by now all marine animals should understand: This world was designed specifically for humans; and if you live in our world, you play by our rules.

When we say "Jump through the hoop!" you ask "How high?" (answer: "Just high enough to get through the hoop will do"). When we say "Splash the audience!" you ask "How much?" (answer: "Just enough to make them giggle and consider buying a SeaWorld t-shirt"). Then you may be fed.

So a murder of this barbaric nature (with hundreds of eye witnesses) is way out of line and deserves justice. Rather than releasing Tilikum, I say we throw him in an even smaller tank. Instead of three buckets of herring a day, he gets one. No direct interaction with humans or other whales. Place his tank in the corner of the larger whale tank so the other whales can see: "This is what happens when you mess with the humans. Anyone else wanna show off your brute strength?" Didn't think so.

And I would probably show leniency if this were a natural occurence ("after all, killer whales will be killer whales," some may say), but we're dealing with a repeat offender here. This recent death at SeaWorld Orlando was the third human death Tilikum was involved in. Certainly the track record of a maliciously murderous mammal.

We need not only continue our containment of these marine animals, but clamp down even tighter. We need more marine parks, more shows and expansion into other industries (casinos, restaurants, sporting events, etc.). Eventually these beasts will realize their primary purpose on this planet: entertain humans so we may swim in a sea of money.

Hayman's Olympic Men's Hockey Update

2010-02-23T15:07:00.000-08:00

The week of preliminary rounds has finally passed and the excitement and energy predicted was second to none this week. The preliminary rounds provided everything needed to get a kick start to the men’s hockey this year in Vancouver. We saw upsets, great goals, big hits and goalies standing on their heads. My last post emphasized goaltending in this tournament and that’s really what a lot of games came down to. In a tournament like this where every game matters and the rounds are short, your goalie needs to bring his "A-game". That's what we saw out of players like USA’s Ryan Miller and Switzerland’s Jonas Hiller.

1. U.S.A.: I have played and coach at competitive levels in the USA hockey system and it’s about time we get recognized for being just as good as anyone else. The greatest reason Team USA is in the number one spot is goalie Ryan Miller. Miller has single-handedly put the team on his back and carried it through a tough game against Canada as well as a tough couple periods against Switzerland. I would look for Ryan Miller to only get better during this tournament. Aside from goaltending, I agree with USA’s GM Brian Burke; I am disappointed with their subpar play in the neutral zone. Also, I keep hearing about Team USA's high-octane offense, but we have seen very little of it thus far.

2. Sweden: I have been extremely impressed with Sweden. This team that has it all: experience, youth and speed. The Swedes went undefeated through the preliminary round and shut out rival Finland to announce their presence in the tournament. I would look for Nicklas Lidstrom to keep playing his shut-down style of defense along with Sedin twins for high-powered offense in the games to come.

3. Russia: I was impressed with the Russians this week and yesterday’s game that convinced me that the Red Machine will be tough to beat in this year's Games. Despite a disappointing loss to Slovakia, the Russians really laid down the hammer on the Czechs on Sunday. The Russian’s first line, centered by Evgeni Malkin and led by Alex Ovechkin, rocked the entire world. Despite Malkin ringing up two goals, it was Ovechkin’s hit on Jaromir Jagar that had the entire world seeing Red.

4. Finland: Despite being shut out by rival Sweden, the Finns were able to clinch a bye in the fourth position. The Finns have so many explosive players on their roster, but I would like to see more productivity out of Saku Koivu and Kimo Timonen. As much as I would love to see Finland explode onto the Olympic scene, I just think the U.S.A. will want it more if they square off in the Semifinal round.

5. Czech Republic: The hit Jaromir Jagr took against the Russians demonstrated that it’s no longer his time. The Czechs put up a good fight against the Russians, but the depth is just not there to get past Finland.

6. Canada: The only word to describe Canada’s performance right now is disappointing. There is no doubt they have the best roster in the tournament. Too bad when you hit the ice, nothing on paper matters. Sidney Crosby has really shown up and done well so far - but where is everyone else? The list goes on and on with stars on this team, but I am not impressed with what I have seen. Canada will really have to come together against Germany if they want to contend with Russia in the Quarterfinals.

7. Slovakia: Slovakia has really turned a lot of heads this tournament by beating Russia. The truth is, Slovakia doesn’t have the guns or the goaltending, but Marian Hossa is proving why he is one of the elite players in the NHL.

Outlook: The U.S. earned quite an advantage by drawing the #1 seed. Their path to the gold medal game will be much easier than that of Russia, Canada or Sweden. Canada will have a very difficult time getting past Russia in the quarterfinals, especially coming off a qualifying game the day before. Slovakia will challenge Sweden, but the experienced Swedes will pull through. Russia's talent will get them to the gold medal game, but they'll be gassed after taking on Canada and Sweden. The U.S. goaltending will get the job done, and the U.S.A. will win gold on the 30th year anniversary of the Miracle on Ice.

Bracket Projection:

Hayman’s Olympic Men's Hockey Preview

2010-02-15T15:12:00.000-08:00

Men's hockey kicks off tomorrow in the Winter Olympics and this year's games really have my interest. If you are unfamiliar with the format of this tournament, here's how it works:

Eighteen preliminary games are played between Tuesday and Sunday to determine each team's seed position (or rank). The top four ranked teams will receive byes to the quarterfinal round. The remaining eight teams will compete for the remaining four quarterfinal positions. You can find scores, standings and other Olympic hockey information at the Vancouver 2010 website.

For pre-tournament analysis, hockey fanatic and Just Postin' contributor Kevin Hayman has prepared an overview of the top six teams in the field.

Rankings: 1. Canada 2. Sweden 3. USA 4. Russia 5. Finland 6. Czech Republic

The Rest of the Pack: Slovakia, Norway, Switzerland, Latvia, Belarus, Germany

Analysis

Canada:

Strengths: Canada will be a big force this year in the Olympics. Home ice advantage will play a factor and this is the event fans care about the most. Having #87 (Sidney Crosby) on the team automatically gives Canada a boost. What will really make Canada strong is their trio of defensemen: Duncan Keith, Chris Pronger and Scott Neidermeyer. There is no doubt this team is stacked; it will take a team with a lot of heart to beat them.

Weaknesses: Goaltending injuries from the NHL season may haunt them with Marc-Andre Fleury and Roberto Luongo being a little banged up. Every player on this roster is what I call a game-breaker, but there aren't too may role players. I doubt it will be an issue, but sometimes the dream team isn’t the best team.

Sweden:

Strengths: Sweden is just as stacked as any other team in the tournament. Goaltender Henrik Lundqvist is always a tremendous competitor and they have a lot of Olympic experience with Nicklas Lidstrom, Peter Forsberg and captain Daniel Alfredsson. They also have a lot of talented newcomers like Nicklas Backstrom and Tobias Enstrom. They are the defending gold medal champions and everyone on this team has NHL experience.

Weaknesses: Sweden appears to be one of the older teams in the tournament. In today’s style of hockey, young talent dominates. Injuries may play a factor; Kronwall has missed games due to concussions and the Sedin twins have been fighting injuries all season. Also, winger Tomas Holmstrom just withdrew from the roster due to a recurring knee injury. He will be replaced by Johan Franzen who was initially left off the roster while rehabbing a knee surgery.

USA:

Strengths: I really like this line-up. They have a lot of youth up front with forwards Patrick Kane, Bobby Ryan and Phil Kessel. They are extremely determined and GM Brian Burke did a good job of mixing experience with young talent. Jamie Langenbrunner was a good choice for captain and I feel they have the best goaltending in the tournament. Sometimes goaltending can win a tournament like this.

Weaknesses: Looking at some of the other rosters, I just don’t think the U.S. has the guns to win this tournament. They have already lost Mike Komiserek on defense and they don’t have game-breakers like Crosby and Malkin.

Russia:

Strengths: Russia has the three most dynamic NHL players on their team with Evgeni Malkin, Ilya Kovlachuk and Alexander Ovechkin. This along with phenomenal goaltending (led by the Sharks' Evgeni Nabokov) makes Russia a real threat to the Canadians and Swedes. I would not be surprised if their power play registers a 65% scoring percentage.

Weaknesses: WHERE ARE ALL THE OTHER RUSSIAN NHL PLAYERS!?! I understand Russia wants to prove that the Russian Super League (or IHF as it’s called now) is just as good as the NHL, but clearly it is not. This is why I have the U.S. ranked higher than Russia. My Russian Olympic team has Alexei Kovalev.

Finland:

Strengths: The Finns come in to this tournament looking to avenge their loss in the gold medal game at Turin in 2006. They have a lot of exciting players with explosive speed and talent. Several playmakers on this team, such as Mikko Koivu from the Minnesota Wild and Kimmo Timonen from the Flyers, can lead the Finns very far in this tournament. Look for Finland to turn a lot of heads against teams that rank above them.

Weaknesses: One thing about Finnish hockey is that it is very pass heavy and speed-oriented rather than the banging along the boards where a lot of the game is played. They may have trouble dealing with the physicality of the Canadians and the U.S.

Czech Republic:

Strengths: The Czechs have a good mix of young talent and seasoned vets with guys like Jaromir Jagr and Patrik Elias. They have that European style of explosive speed and play-making ability.

Weaknesses: They run into the same problems as the Finns and seem to have a very old roster.

Game to Watch: United States vs. Canada in a preliminary game on Sunday, February 21st at 6:40 p.m.

Enjoy the games! U.S.A. all the way!

Two Eds are Better Than One

2010-02-12T12:30:00.000-08:00

I loved coming across this video, in which Ed Schultz reiterates what I was saying in my previous post. He even framed his argument almost exactly the same way I did.

"Snow Much for Global Warming?" The Joke is on You

2010-02-10T14:35:00.000-08:00

Heavy snowstorms pound the mid-Atlantic and the refrain throughout the country is all too trite. Here's just a small sampling of Facebook status' posted within the past hour (found by searching "global warming"):

"all this snow and cold weather i wonder what would happen if we didnt have global warming lol were is al gore and his yahoos now ( probably on vacation )"
"Not hearing a lot these days from all those global warming F#$%S now are we!"
"All of this snow proves global warming doesnt exist..and D.C. got most of it cause god knows obama isn't really a US citizen...haha heard that on WEBN yesterday"
"is quite surprise to NOT hear any GLobal Warming mumbo jumbo stuff lately"
"because of global warming!! GLOBAL WARMING!!! LMAO!!!!! They are all trully delusional, they will say anything to push the cap tax and spend, ooops! I meen cap and trade. But its too late, everyone knows global warming is a hoax!!! There in a panic because there going to lose a multi billion $ industry."
"50 car pileups, zero visibility, airports closed, Gov of Penn. closed 3 interstates, entire northeast snowed in, record snowfalls.........oh, by the way dont forget about global warming, and the billions of dollars being legislated by our government to push this ideology. Give me a break! Thanks Al!"

And of course the old stand-by:

"global warming my ass"

If the people above (names removed so they don't find this post via search and send me hate mail...or worse) would stop dismissing everything "al gore and his yahoos" say as liberal propaganda they might learn something about our world. They may find ways to improve their daily habits so we can sustain our life on the planet we so gratuitously profit from. They will certainly find the answer to their redundant ridicule of "global warming."

What Al Gore theorized in his documentary "An Inconvenient Truth" was that our global temperature is rising at an unprecedented and potentially cataclysmic rate largely due to the emission of man-made greenhouse gases. Leading science academies around the globe have found this theory to be true. "Since 2001, 32 national science academies have come together to issue joint declarations confirming anthropogenic global warming, and urging the nations of the world to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases." Additionally, "no remaining scientific body of national or international standing is known to reject the basic findings of human influence on recent climate change."

And yes, I did just cite Wikipedia. But putting together the most convincing, bullet-proof argument for how or why our global temperature is rising not my goal in all of this. I am trying to help people understand the issue, encourage those who are unsure to research it for themselves, and counteract ignorance like this:

Now I'll be completely honest - I generally don't delve into political arguments. It's not so much my cup of tea. It doesn't much bother me if you oppose cap-and-trade legislation - go ahead, it's your right. What does bother me is if you oppose cap-and-trade legislation under the false pretense that "global warming" would mean severe snowstorms like the ones shown above wouldn't happen. This misconception is made obvious by the status' posted above. And most ironically, the truth in that logic is just the opposite.

Thankfully, I am not the only one responding to this quandry (contrary to what the 'Where are the global warming people now?' questioners believe), and today's article in TIME helps to explain it best.

The 2009 U.S. Climate Impacts Report found that large-scale cold-weather storm systems have gradually tracked to the north in the U.S. over the past 50 years. While the frequency of storms in the middle latitudes has decreased as the climate has warmed, the intensity of those storms has increased. That's in part because of global warming — hotter air can hold more moisture, so when a storm gathers it can unleash massive amounts of snow. Colder air, by contrast, is drier; if we were in a truly vicious cold snap, like the one that occurred over much of the East Coast during parts of January, we would be unlikely to see heavy snowfall.

If this wasn't too much "GLobal Warming mumbo jumbo stuff" for you, I hope I have encouraged you to seek a greater knowledge of the issue. And next time you hear someone crack another "global warming my ass," joke - you'll understand that laughing at them makes more sense than laughing with them.

*Ed. note: Eddie Rybarski got an "A" in "Geography 120: Weather and Climate" during his junior year at Western Illinois University. Somewhat sadly, it remains one of the proudest accomplishments of his life.

My NFL Playoff Predictions

2010-01-15T16:10:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you will look at my bracket and immediately disagree with at least four of my picks. But that's the fun of making predictions - everyone has their own opinion. If three of the four underdog away teams win this weekend, no one would otherwise believe I thought it would happen. And if they don't? Well, I'm not beating myself up over it.

For analysis, I'll take it one week at a time, providing brief offerings of why I like each team. Mostly I'm going with my gut.

WILD CARD ROUND

JETS at BENGALS: Bengals still not getting the credit they deserve; Jets will be on the defensive.
RAVENS at PATRIOTS: Wes Welker injury more significant than it appears - Edelman is no Welker. Ray Lewis and the Ravens are always hungry this time of year.
EAGLES at COWBOYS: Yes, Cowboys rolled the Eagles 24-0 last week, but I trust Andy Reid and the Eagles. This pick might be the one furthest from reason, but I can not deny my gut feeling. Maybe it has to do with Tony Romo's history of performing poorly when it counts.
PACKERS at CARDINALS: Rodgers is one of the best; I like the Packers to be this year's sleeper.

Alright, so last week is a very good example of why I don't bet on games (although if I did, I'd have probably picked the Cowboys). I predicted only one (Ravens) of the four games accurately. Regardless, only one of those games affects my picks for this weekend.

DIVISIONAL ROUND

JETS at CHARGERS: The Chargers might have the most balanced attack in the league. Better rested and presumably better prepared, San Diego shouldn't have much trouble pulling this one out.
RAVENS at COLTS: The Ravens looked great in their dominating win over the Patriots last week, and I could see them carrying the momentum into this game. I just can't imagine it will be enough to beat the Colts.
COWBOYS at VIKINGS: In what will be my favorite game of the weekend, the Cowboys defense will struggle to stop a powerful Vikings offense. The Cowboys have quite a prolific offensive attack as well, but the Vikes' D should be better at containing it.
CARDINALS at SAINTS: Well, I had the Packers winning this one initially, but that will obviously not be the case. You know what though? I still think the Saints will lose. Kurt Warner just keeps proving himself (though his counterpart is no slouch) and I think he wins in another shootout.

Enjoy the games...check back for the updated post next week.

Somebody? Anybody??

2010-01-14T13:08:00.000-08:00

Note: This is not an actual Craigslist ad. This image was fabricated for your amusement.

If Lovie actually did make a Craigslist ad for these positions, what more would it say? "Do you get off the bus running?" How about "Creative play-callers need not apply." Post any suggestions you may have in the comments section below!

Shedding Light on the Leach/James Drama at Texas Tech

2010-01-07T10:10:00.000-08:00

You may have heard about Mike Leach, the Texas Tech football coach who was recently reprieved of his duties following the mistreatment of a player, Adam James. The story, as it is told, is one that portrays Leach more like Lecter; an antagonizing “mad scientist” in a real-life horror story (Red Raider?). You know the one I’m talking about – “THE KID HAD A CONCUSSION AND GOT LOCKED IN A DARK SHED FOR THREE HOURS!” And his dad is Craig James, a College Football Analyst for ABC and ESPN.

Player abuse is, naturally, a touchy subject, and with it comes an enormous amount of grey area. It is difficult to draw the line between discipline and abuse. Therefore, we must make an attempt to understand both sides of the story to validate the claim. Several e-mails to the athletic director from coaches and former teammates help establish a clearer picture of who Adam James is.

Among the e-mails, this one from former TTU receiver Eric Morris:

"You can find out a lot about a person after playing three years of college football with them. Adam James was a teammate of mine from 2006-2009. Ever since the day he arrived on the Texas Tech campus you couldn’t help but to feel a negative energy from him. He expected people to baby him and that he was going make it solely on the fact that his father was a very successful player. Coach Leach has never been a coach to just give something to someone because of who they are. He believes that everyone is equal and you have to earn respect from your coaches and teammates. Adam was never known as a hard worker. I can honestly agree with this because we played the same position and I witnessed his laziness on a daily basis. Adam seemed to have a negative attitude towards the football program the majority of the time. That negative energy is never good for a team and can cause some major problems on and off the field. During practices, Adam always tried to get by with doing the least he possibly could. Never do I once remember Adam to be excited or enthusiastic to be out there. It was almost like he was playing the game of football to please someone other than himself."

An e-mail from Wide Receiver’s Coach, Lincoln Riley, describing James as “unusually lazy and entitled,” goes on to say:

“I have always been worried about Adam's effect on my other players because of his weak and conceited attitude. I recently found out that Adam deliberately undermined my authority on many occasions. This is particularly disturbing because Coach Leach hired me to make our receivers the best group in the country, and Adam has damaged this group far more than I even realized. He should be grateful for the opportunity that was given to him here that was not offered at any other Division 1 football program. He has an unbelievable sense of entitlement because of who his father is; one that hurts himself and people around him. Adam is the kind of person that makes excuses or blames people for things that go wrong in his life.”

Of course, these e-mails are from supporters of Mike Leach, so they are going to say negative things about James, right? Well, thanks to a video posted on AOL Fanhouse, you can witness the kid’s attitude for yourself.

In the video, we see Mike Leach casting off Adam James from the huddle and berating him for his poor effort. The video makes Leach look like the abusive a-hole we already take him for. But the video reveals more; as one commenter noticed, you can see James laughing Leach off. I’m going one step further to insinuate James may have flipped him off as well. You be the judge (click to view larger image):

Now I’m not arguing abuse of a player is acceptable if said player is acting like a jerk. While some coaches or parents might believe strict mental or physical discipline is necessary to fix this attitude; I’m not going there. What I’m asking is: If Leach was repeatedly provoked to the point of punishing James, is it possible the kid was intentionally invoking his reprimand?

James begrudged Leach because he wasn’t getting as much playing time as he felt he should. His father shared (and possibly fueled) this contempt by calling Leach and other coaches to complain. After Leach warned Adam subsequent voicemails could be played for the team to hear, Craig would show up to practices and call school administrators.

Since Leach would not back down to such bully tactics, Adam James continued to push the coaches’ buttons; continually putting forth a minimum effort. Then, after a mid-December practice, James pressed the hottest button of all; going to team doctors claiming he had a concussion.

More insight from the e-mail by Lincoln Riley:

"Two practices before Adam James claimed he had a concussion, Coach Leach and I were forced to discipline him for poor effort from the previous practice and poor effort during the early drills of that day. This has been a common theme about Adam's work ethic and attitude during his entire career. Adam, along with two other receivers that were also unsatisfactory, was sent to run stadium steps with Bennie Wylie. After the practice, Bennie made it very clear to Coach Leach and I that Adam was a complete "jerk" while he was being punished. After talking with Adam after the practice, it was very clear to me that Adam did not agree with the punishment and believed that we were just mis-assessing his effort. He complained to me that we were not doing our jobs as coaches and that his effort was just fine, all of which is very typical of him to say. By comparison, the other receiver that we punished agreed that his effort wasn't his best and had a good attitude with Bennie and also in meeting with me after practice. It's just another example of Adam thinking that he knows more about coaching than people who have been coaching for their entire lives. I have no doubt that anger from this led to where we are today with this situation and is his way of trying to 'get back' at us coaches."

As many football fans are aware, sport concussions have recently become a very serious issue in organized football. A number of studies have been, and are continuing to be, conducted to examine the long-term impact of concussions. As such, team doctors and staff know that treatment of a concussed player must be done with extreme precaution. Returning from a concussion too soon increases the likelihood of experiencing another brain injury, which can then lead to long term neurological disorders.

With this understanding, a concussion can more or less be self-diagnosed. If a player thinks he may have had a concussion, he fills out a Sports Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT). According to the affidavit provided by Tech trainer, Steve Pincock, James filled out a SCAT 2. If the SCAT 2 is anything like the SCAT, James needed only to identify ONE of the symptoms to be suspected of having a concussion. James reported experiencing seven, and a mild concussion was diagnosed by a team doctor.

The rest of the story can best be understood by reading Pincock’s affidavit. We’ll pick it up from the first practice after James’ diagnosis.

Pincock goes on to state he was “not aware of any other football player at Texas Tech University ever being placed in a darkened shed or room similar to James.” And that he feels “Leach’s treatment of James was inappropriate.”

The University suspended Leach for his action on December 28th. Two days later he was terminated shortly before a hearing to appeal his suspension. The firing came three days before his team was to play in the Alamo Bowl and just one day before Leach was to receive an $800,000 bonus if he was still the coach. Quite the fortunate coincidence for TTU.

As for the James’? Well, Craig was pulled off his Alamo Bowl assignment and Adam was loudly booed by a livid Red Raider crowd. The family has received threats and their home is being monitored by an increased amount of security. Kinda reminds me of that saying: “Those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.” And as tempting as it is to pile on James here, I will instead adopt the policy of my buddy Paul: “No stone throwing, regardless of housing situation.”

So is Leach a villain? Is James a victim? What should we make of this story? ESPN.com writer Jeff MacGregor sums it up best:

“Every corner of this story stinks of witless self-interest and self-righteous bullying and short-sighted entitlement. In sum, it smells like classic big-program college football at its small-minded worst. One can only hope that everyone involved gets exactly what's coming to them. No winners here, no heroes, only angry, petty people willing to cannibalize one another in service of low ambitions.”

New Blog Picture?

2010-01-03T18:26:00.000-08:00

I've been working on the blog quite a bit tonight and was considering adding a picture to my header. It definitely needs to be more visually appealing. This is what I came up with (it includes a name change).

Brett Favre's top 5 games at Soldier Field

2009-12-27T19:58:00.000-08:00

The postseason is still a couple weeks away - and Brett Favre still has another year left on his two-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings - but in the sports media industry, it seems never too soon to ponder the future of the NFL's ageless sage.

With the apparent rift between Favre and Vikings coach Brad Childress, some are already speculating as to whether or not this will be Favre's final season in the Twin Cities. The Vikings have made it known that the two are back on the same page; and it is understood that if any conflict exists, it is not large enough to interfere with the team's playoff run.

But come the end of the season, fans can plan on the same sideshow circus we have come to expect from Favre. Will he demand his release? A trade? Retire? The man loves to keep us guessing. With that in mind, Monday night's game against the Bears may be the last he plays at Soldier Field.

In his last visit, a Week 16 game in 2007, he registered a 40.2 passer rating while throwing two interceptions and no touchdowns in a 35-7 loss. Even more upside for Bears fans: of the 15 games Favre has played in Chicago, his five worst came in Weeks 13 or later.

In truth, Favre has rarely been spectacular at Soldier Field; his best game as a visiting opponent came in 2002 while the team played at U of I's Memorial Stadium during Soldier's renovation. But with a new team - which has already clinched the NFC North - and one of the league's most prolific offenses, Favre clearly returns to the Windy City under a different set of circumstances. It's possible he could have one of his best performances ever in Chicago.

Here are his top five to date:

5. 1/2/2005: Following the death of former teammate Reggie White, Favre came out firing in this Week 17 matchup. He was remarkably efficient, completing 9 of 13 passes for 196 yards, 2 TDs and 0 INTs for his Soldier-best rating of 151.4. The impressive part of this game is that all of his stats were accumulated within fewer than 21 minutes of action. With the game in hand, career backup Craig Nall came in and had the second best game of his career, throwing for 131 yards and a TD himself.

4. 11/11/2001: The Bears pulled out sensational victories over San Francisco and Cleveland and were off to a surprising 6-1 start before Favre and the Packers came to town. Favre completed 19 of 32 for 268 and a pair of TDs in a 20-12 Green Bay victory to end the Bears' five game win streak. The Bears would lose to Favre and the Pack again in Week 13, but won every other game en route to a 13-3 record and first place in the NFC Central.

3. 9/11/1995: In Week 2 of the 1995-'96 season, Favre completed 21 of 37 passes for 312 yards and 3 TDs in a 27-24 victory. When the Bears traveled to Green Bay nine weeks later, Favre went right back to work completing 25 of 33 for 336, 5 TDs and 0 INTs. The legend was growing.

2. 9/29/2003: This Week 4 game of 2003 was more or less just another one of the routine poundings the Bears had become accustomed to receiving from the Packers. Favre completed an excellent 21 of 29 passes including 3 TDs to topple Kordell Stewart and the Bears 38-23. The victory was Favre's eighth consecutive over the Bears (a streak that grew to 11).

1. 10/6/1996: Favre was hot as ever coming off a 1995 MVP season in which he led the Packers to the NFC Championship game. In his Week 6 matchup against the Bears, he completed 18 of 27 passes for 246 yards and 4 TDs to lead the Packers in a 37-6 blowout victory. The team continued their dominance down the stretch, going 13-3 and eventually winning Super Bowl XXXI.

Will Michael Jordan play again at 50?

2009-09-17T20:24:00.000-07:00

Some people remember Michael Jordan as a miracle worker; the one who excelled in the face of illness and fatigue and won championships with game-winning jump shots. Some remember Michael Jordan as the man who defied gravity; he who floated from the foul line to win the 1988 Slam Dunk contest and once long enough to drop an infamous buzzer-beating shot over Craig Ehlo. Others remember Michael Jordan as the greatest corporate pitchman of all-time; the "mediagenic superstar who transcended race, culture and nationality."

Yet as Jordan was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame last week – with a Michael Jordan exhibit, monumental ceremony and career highlights video - it was all too finite for Jordan. He had a difficult time embracing the moment, and many fans and media members were critical of his induction speech. I'm surprised how many found it to be incensing rather than insightful.

Michael used the forum to acknowledge those who discounted his abilities for motivating him throughout his career. Some people took this as Michael holding grudges; I viewed it as evidence that he still has the fire to play basketball. Most indicative of this was his final remark:

"One day you might look up and see me playing a game at 50. Don't laugh. Never say never because limits, like fears, are often just an illusion."

This quote clearly supports the idea that Michael Jordan would play in the NBA again. Furthermore, in his pre-speech conversation with ESPN's Michael Wilbon, he added:

"I feel like I still got so much to do. You know I love the game. I'm always gonna love the game. I'm always gonna feel like keeping people off guard by not knowing - I can still play the game if I choose to play the game. I can run with the young horses; don't put me out grazing yet. But it's still my choice."

So the question remains: Can and will Michael Jordan play in the NBA at the age of 50?

The "can" in this question has two parts.

1) After being elected to the Hall of Fame, is he able to un-retire and play again? Would he have that opportunity?

Although Hall of Fame induction is customarily the symbolic end of a player's career, it doesn't have to be. Many former athletes talk about wishing for an opportunity to continue their playing careers, but very few are able to. Aging diminishes their talent until they are no longer valuable to a team. Jordan, as part-owner of the Charlotte Bobcats, clearly knows the supreme value he can provide to his team.

In December 2008, Forbes magazine valued the Bobcats at $284 million; next-to-last in the NBA. Upon Bobcats Sports and Entertainment CFO Michael Behrman resigning in July, the Charlotte Business Journal reported the team’s season ticket base to be 5,500; 26 percent below the Bobcat's estimate last fall. Additionally, industry experts estimate the team loses $30 million to $40 million annually. Attendance, TV ratings and sponsorship continue to rank among the lowest in the league. Attendance for the 2008-09 season was 14,574 fans per game. The NBA average was 17,520.

Meanwhile, Bobcats majority owner Robert Johnson is aggressively searching for new investors in the team, and looking to discuss with Jordan the opportunity to take on a larger share. If M.J. were to buy a majority share in the Bobcats, he knows the best (and perhaps only) way to bail the team out of the NBA's basement is by returning as a player.

If "Air Jordan" comes back, TV ratings (and the bids for broadcasting rights) would skyrocket. Ticket prices would soar and the Bobcats would likely sell out the majority (or all) home and away games. Jordan's jersey (and other Jordan/Bobcats apparel) would launch merchandising revenue through the roof. In short, the global appeal of Michael Jordan returning to the hardwood would immediately save the Charlotte Bobcats franchise.

Now part two comes into play:

2) Would Jordan be able to physically and mentally compete?

Along with his "I can still run with the young horses" comment, Michael had more to say suggesting his confidence in this matter:

"The body is probably the biggest thing that allows us, or makes us, to walk away from the game because we can’t respond physically. Mentally I still think I'm just as sharp as when I played the game – probably even more sharper (grammatic irony?)... it's amazing; that wall continues to get taller – physically – but mentally you always find a way around the wall, or through the wall, or over the wall."

Now if there's one thing that defines Michael, it may well be his mantra "I will not lose." If M.J. decides he's coming back, he will get in the shape necessary to compete. In spite of his age and his critics, he will amaze you.

So will Michael Jordan return again as a player? The legend has achieved nearly every basketball accolade and admits to have nothing "left on the table." A failed comeback attempt (more irony - Jordan is the antithesis of failure) would only tarnish his near-mythical image. Certainly, he would return nowhere near the form of "His Airness." More than likely, Michael Jordan would return as Mortal Jordan; one who incurs contempt and criticism, distress and defeat.

Yet none of this concerns him. M.J. has maintained the opinion that the status of "Greatest" basketball player is irrelevant. He never had the opportunity to compete against the great players that came before him. Regardless, as Michael entered the Hall of Fame, he was welcomed and celebrated as the oft-recognized "Greatest" basketball player to ever live.

If Jordan had a say in his legacy, he would probably rather be known as the fiercest competitor in history; hopelessly in love with the game of basketball. And while he keeps his hand in the game with part-ownership of the Bobcats, Jordan readily admits he tries not to watch basketball because he is so critical of the way it is played. To him, it must feel like watching your ex-wife dance with her awkward younger boyfriend. He is unable to let go. As he explains to Wilbon:

"Basketball's my love. Always has been - and I can never envision an ending of something like that. You know, that passion I have for the game until I'm dead and gone."

It is this sincere love of the game that will ignite yet another Michael Jordan comeback. It won't be for the accolades, adulation or money (although he certainly has a rich incentive as Bobcats owner). No, Michael already has all of that. More than he ever could have imagined. What it comes down to is this: Michael Jordan is a relentless competitor with an undying confidence in his ability to succeed.

"If I can ever think about what I miss about the game, it was being that consistent (level of excellence) each and every day," Jordan told Wilbon. "Every time some naysayer would say, 'He can't do this.' Well I think I can prove you wrong. Yeah, I think I can do that."

There's no way I'd ever count him out.

My M.J. Moment

2009-09-12T15:33:00.000-07:00

I was able to go to six Bulls games while interning in the sports department at NBC 5. At those games I would accompany one of the sports reporters; Daryl Hawks, Paula Faris or Peggy Kusinski. We would arrive about an hour and a half before the game and settle into the media work room. There, media members could buy dinner in sort of an upscale cafeteria-style and pour over the multitude of information provided by the Bulls media relations department. We would do a stand-up live shot from the court at some time during warm-ups then go up to the press box to watch the game from there. Sometimes the reporter would leave after the live shot and I would stay to get sound from the Bulls players after the game.

Getting sound requires holding a microphone to the players’ faces while they answer questions. If I felt I could contribute or had a good question I would ask some of my own. Some of the players I “got sound” from include: The Bulls’ Derrick Rose, Kirk Hinrich, Joakim Noah, Aaron Gray, and Ben Gordon, as well as the Celtics’ Glen Davis, Brian Scalabrine, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. While those experiences were special in their own right, they don’t compare to when two basketball legends came to the United Center for a game honoring former Bulls coach and broadcaster Johnny “Red” Kerr.

On that February evening I was with Peggy Kusinski for a game against the Detroit Pistons. The Pistons had many stars who I enjoyed watching growing up. Guys like Rip Hamilton and Rasheed Wallace won championships with the team and were still around in the 2009 season. Additionally, former superstar Allen Iverson was on the team. It was cool seeing those guys up close and personal, but paled in comparison to seeing two all-time greats - Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.

It started as a rumor that M.J. would be there. Why wouldn’t he be? Michael had a very close relationship with Red Kerr and it was quietly known that Kerr wasn’t going to be around much longer. So sure enough, after hanging around in the work room and on the court for about an hour, a large white Chevy (Suburban…I think?) pulled into the players’ entrance and delivered none other than His Royal Airness.

A media mob had gathered; cameras, boom mics, reporters, etc. I hung in the back not wanting to get in the way of someone trying to do their job. I was glad I brought my Sony handheld mini-cassette recorder so I at least looked like I had a reason to reach from the back. Michael was wearing an olive green jacket over a black mock turtleneck and jeans. His earring shined along with his trademark smile. From about eight feet back I could barely hear the questions and answers. I just hoped my recorder was picking them up. Even if it didn’t – at least I looked like I should be there.

The most memorable moment happened when Michael looked up from the mics and spotted me with kind of a “who’s the tall kid in the back?” curiosity. Before I could register his gaze, we made eye contact. It didn’t last long - I’d say just longer than a second - but it was jarring. It was a surreal feeling because I had grown up watching M.J. countless times on television, collected his basketball cards, hung posters of him on my wall, wore his replica jersey, spent all of my birthday money on his autograph and had a life-sized cardboard cutout of him in my bedroom. The feeling was – woah – the cardboard cutout just made eye contact with me.

After answering questions, Michael disappeared and the media mob dispersed. A short time later, Peggy and I took the back way around to the press box elevator. All of a sudden, Michael appeared walking right alongside me. I walked behind Peggy with M.J. to my right and a man escorting him to his right. Peggy had a working relationship with Michael from the Bulls dynasty days and they struck up conversation as we proceeded to the elevator. It was just small talk about him not having been back to the United Center in a while and how different things were. Inside I pleaded, “Introduce me! Introduce me!” but I maintained a professional demeanor and said nothing. Another intern had previously been criticized for taking pictures with Blackhawks players in the locker room and I knew what kind of behavior was expected of me. I do wonder however if Michael expected this kind of composure from me or if he was accustomed to every guy like me at least extending a handshake. Regardless, seeing Michael Jordan so intimately was a memory I’ll always hold onto.

After the halftime ceremony honoring Kerr, I spotted Scottie Pippen doing interviews in the tunnel by the media work room. Again I grabbed my recorder and joined the media mob. This group was considerably smaller than the one that surrounded Jordan; maybe 7 people. I was within two feet of him, yet we did not make eye contact. A few months later, I was writing this blog on Top Ten Chicago Sports Tantrums and stumbled across a YouTube video of the interview with me walking by in the background before I joined the pack. Pretty fun stuff.

While my Jordan/Pippen experience was relatively inconsiderable, I don’t expect it to be my last Jordan encounter. His Hall of Fame induction speech only solidified my idea that we have not seen the last of M.J. on the hardwood. More on that to follow…

Twist and Shout: Bradley's Comments Racialized by Media

2009-08-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one who will stand up for Milton Bradley as he is mercilessly maligned for being malcontent with the way he is treated?

After Chicago Tribune Cubs beat writer Paul Sullivan wrote an article asserting Bradley “accuse(d) some fans of racial taunts,” Bradley responded by claiming the media “twisted” his words. When asked how his words were twisted, Bradley declined to elaborate.

“It’s not worth it for me to get into in this situation,” said Bradley. “I’m not trying to win, I just go out there and give an honest answer and I don’t know why people can’t respect that or respect how you feel.”

Yes, Bradley always plays the role of victim. It is who Milton has been and is who Milton will continue to be. In this regard, he is a self-oppressor. He has brought criticism on himself. But if Bradley is digging his own grave, Sullivan and a few other media members are attempting to shove him in and bury him.

So because the Cubs have asked Bradley to keep quiet and because reporters continue to toy with him for another big story, I will address what he meant when he said the media twisted his words.

To find the twist, all we need to do is compare Sullivan’s article to the article of Bruce Miles, the Cubs beat reporter for the Daily Herald. After doing so, one might wonder if Sullivan and Miles were even in the same press conference.

Tribune headline: “Bradley accuses some fans of racial taunts”
Subtitle: But Chicago Cubs outfielder offers no examples of such abuse

Daily Herald Headline: “Bradley bitter about badmouthing from Cubs fans”

Sullivan’s lede: “An angry Milton Bradley lashed out at his treatment from Cubs fans Wednesday, suggesting he has been the victim of racial abuse at Wrigley Field.”

Miles’ (delayed) lede: “The Cubs right fielder responded forcefully but calmly Wednesday to follow-up questions about his comments from Tuesday night, when he talked of facing ‘hatred.’”

Sullivan’s context: “But Bradley declined to give specifics, saying no one wanted to listen to him. ‘America doesn't believe in racism,’ he said sarcastically before repeating the remark.”

Miles’ context: “Told that some in the media and public were construing his comments to mean he has been the victim of racial abuse, Bradley said, ironically: ‘America doesn’t believe in racism.’”

Sullivan piled on the next day in his write-up following Thursday’s game.

Writes Sullivan:

“When Milton Bradley grounded out with the tying run on second in the ninth inning of Thursday's 5-4 loss to the Nationals, the game ended. But the real story was just beginning because Bradley refused to let it end. The Bradley saga took another strange turn when the Cubs outfielder claimed the media ‘twisted’ his comments Tuesday and Wednesday about being the victim of racial abuse from fans in Wrigley Field. It all started when Bradley was asked if he was ‘misunderstood.’”

Catch a contradiction there? Bradley refused to let the “saga” end, but it all started when a reporter asked him a question.

In Miles’ recap of Thursday’s game, Bradley was quoted in the headline as calling his previous comments a "dead issue." Additionally, Miles clarified Bradley's misconstrued comments and included another quote Sullivan (unsurprisingly) did not use.

Writes Miles:

“On the issue of racism, which Bradley implied but did not directly cite Wednesday, he was vague again.

‘That’s what they (the media) make it out to be,’ (Bradley) said. ‘I don’t read the paper for that very reason. USA Today is the only legit source of news to me. If it ain’t in USA Today, it doesn’t really matter to me. When it comes to issues like this, there’s no way you can give fair opinions, because you just don’t know.’”

Isn’t it funny how two people can go to the same press conference, record the same questions and answers, and come up with two completely different interpretations?

It seems to me that people hear what they want to hear and see what they want to see. And while Miles reports as a fair and objective observer, Sullivan writes as if he is heading up a lynch mob. Sadly, the result of his article wasn’t too far from it.

Friday, Tribune baseball writer Phil Rogers wrote a column entitled, “Chicago Cubs should cut Milton Bradley.”

Additionally, Tribune blogger Steve Rosenbloom piled on his own fallacious commentary.

Writes Rosenbloom:

“(Bradley) turned angry Wednesday, claiming Cubs fans have abused him racially…He charged fans with the most despicable of verbal acts, then refused to give examples of occurrences at Wrigley Field, resorting to cynicism ('That’s the way it has been.') and sarcasm (‘America doesn’t believe in racism.’).”

The most disturbing result of this whole charade is the way it portrays racism as a figment of delusion. The headline and subtitle say it all. “Bradley accuses some fans of racial taunts…offers no such examples of abuse.” The article goes on to explain a Cubs security spokesman said there have been no reports of any racial abuse toward Bradley at Wrigley Field. See? Never happens. This alleged "racial" hatred simply does not exist.

To further demonstrate the kind of "innocent" jests Bradley is exposed to in right field, The Chicago Sun-Times sent staff writer Mark J. Konkol on assignment into the bleachers.

Over the course of nine innings, Konkol took note of both cheers and jeers. In his article, “Bradley hecklers show no racism ... and no mercy, either,” Konkol indicated the recent controversy surrounding Bradley seemed to have a significant effect.

“That piece of [excrement] gave us good reason to heckle him, so why not?” one fan was quoted as saying.

As for racist remarks, Konkol claimed there were none, but one was “closer” to being racist than the others.

Writes Konkol:

“The closest thing to a racial taunt Cubs fan Pat Gross heard came from a guy who yelled, ‘Look out, Milton, they’re throwing white balls at you!’

That's not racist. That's kinda funny.”

I could not believe Konkol’s reaction. Despite being told of a racial taunt, he dismisses it as “kinda funny.” It’s as if his headline was written before his story; because that comment was (at least) “kinda” racist and definitely not funny.

I guess that’s just the way I hear it.

Top Ten Chicago Multi-Home Run Games - Top Ten Chicago Sports

2009-07-09T17:09:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Chicago Multi-Home Run Games - Top Ten Chicago Sports 7/9/09

Posted using ShareThis

I wrote this for ChicagoNow.com after Paul Konerko launched three bombs in one game earlier this month.

What the Cubs Lack is Character

2009-06-30T16:25:00.000-07:00

Posted 6/30/09 on NBCChicago.com

With the offense batting .245 (second last in the N.L.) and a tumultuous pitching staff, the Cubs lag in fourth place in the N.L. Central. Many fans are calling for the addition of another power hitter; still others want an arm for the bullpen. The reality is they will probably get neither. They shouldn't. The Cubs have a payroll of nearly $140 million this season, and these players are expected to win.

You may have heard by now. It’s a numbers game. Teams rely on formulas to produce results. They can statistically determine how much value a given player adds to the team. But herein lies the problem. These formulas don't account for qualitative aspects such as emotion. Previous seasons are subjective.

I mean, it's fair enough to expect a player with a .280 lifetime batting average to hit within 10 points of .280 this season. But add the pressures of a new $30 million contract, playing in the third largest media market in the country, and fans that have impatiently waited -- again -- for next year (after repeatedly being told it was “Gonna Happen” last season). Teams won't always get the player they bargained for.

Now I'm not out to hate on Milton Bradley. Bradley is his own biggest critic. His snafus and tantrums probably stem from caring too much; booing fans do not help the situation. What I am saying is while the Cubs made sure to check off everything on their off-season to-do list, they failed to account for the amount of team character they would lose in the process.

After obtaining reliever Kevin Gregg in November, the Cubs parted ways with Kerry Wood; their longest-tenured player and 1998 the NL Rookie of the Year. Although injuries prevented Wood from ever becoming the elite starter he was expected to be, he worked his way back from surgeries to earn the role of closer in 2008.

Having Wood (a man who bleeds Cubbie-Blue) on the mound at the end of games energized the crowd with confidence. Remember? "That’s Kerry … With a 'K!'" Gregg, on the other hand, has generated uncertainty in the role. There are fans worrying like Mrs. McCallister on a flight to Paris -- pitch, crack! "KEVIN!"

Additionally, the team traded Mark DeRosa; a multi-purpose veteran who gave teammates the confidence that they, too, could do it all. Although DeRosa spent only two seasons on the North Side, his leadership and camaraderie was an integral part of the Cubs' clubhouse.

In his place, they signed utility man Aaron Miles. And though Miles' 2008 statistics earned him attention, his impact with the Cubs has been quiet. Miles is currently on the DL. DeRosa has since been traded to the division-rival Cardinals. Ouch.

Another missing piece from last season is Jim Edmonds; yet this loss can not be blamed on management. Edmonds is 39 and his potential to produce has passed. Regardless, the Cubs lost a future Hall of Famer who took pride in wearing the uniform and laid it out on the line every day.

So who is running the show now? They have a staff of tantrum-throwing pitchers, a drug-implicated catcher, a soft-spoken shortstop, a right fielder that can't control his emotions and a centerfielder whose native tongue inhibits communication with teammates.

All the while, "Sweet Lou" struggles to manage order in this madhouse. Some fans worry about him losing the fire in his belly (he has conceded he's "not a dragon"), though he did call Bradley a P.O.S. the other day. He's since apologized, but regardless -- it's the players who look sorry.

Last year, the Cubs' team leaders were out on the field and in the clubhouse. Guys like Wood, DeRosa and Edmonds set a high standard and the team played up to it. The atmosphere was lighter. They picked each other up. They were macho. They had swagger. They acted like professionals.

That team won 97 games and first place in the N.L. Central. Let's hope the team's off-season additions, along with some subtraction of character, won't end up costing the Cubs the division.

Baseball, Without the Complications

2009-06-24T16:15:00.000-07:00

Posted 6/24/09 on NBCChicago.com

One hundred forty-four miles west of Chicago, away from the commotion of a "Crosstown Classic", distant from power-posturing franchise owners and free from the steroid saga's scarring of Major League Baseball -- a professional game took place Tuesday where fans could purely enjoy a game of great baseball.

It was a game where bragging rights, broadcasting rights and legal rights were not of issue. Front and center was the lush green grass, fresh red dirt and a home plate whiter than Vanna (they spray-painted it). Is this Heaven? Well, to borrow from Ray Kinsella, no..."It’s Iowa."

The Clinton LumberKings played host to the Class A Midwest League All-Star Game Tuesday night. And though Clinton’s Alliant Energy Field is not "The Field of Dreams," it spotlighted a field of young dreamers; ball players eager to demonstrate their skills with the hope of soon making it to the big leagues.

The Eastern Division team featured Josh Vitters (3B) of the Peoria Chiefs. Vitters was the Cubs' first round (3rd overall) pick in the 2007 draft.

For the Western Division team, Kane County Cougar Kenny Smalley got the nod as starting pitcher; a role he earned after converting from a reliever and posting a division-best 2.26 ERA in the first half.

Joining him as starters were Cougars teammates Jason Christian (3B), Jeremy Barfield (DH), Dusty Coleman (SS) and Steve "don’t call me Mr." Kleen (1B). Cougars pitchers Shawn Haviland and Jamie Richmond were designated to the bullpen.

Smalley was extremely efficient in his first and only frame, throwing just 12 pitches (nine for strikes) to retire the East's first three batters.

The East got on the scoreboard first after Great Lakes Loons second baseman Jaime Pedroza doubled home Loons teammate Dee Gordon in the top of the 3rd.

The East piled on in the top of the 4th when Cougars RHP Jamie Richmond got shellacked for six hits and four runs in 2/3 innings. Three of those runs scored on a deep drive to left by West Michigan Whitecaps first baseman Ron Bourquin.

Kleen lessened the blow by knocking a towering solo blast over a tall left-center field fence to lead off the bottom of the 4th. Two outs later, Clinton centerfielder Denny (no, not Danny of LLWS shame) Almonte reached on a broken bat single. Burlington Bees rightfielder Nicholas Francis then scored him by doubling off the centerfield wall.

In the top of the 7th, back-to-back doubles by Western Michigan second baseman Brandon Douglas and Fort Wayne TinCaps third baseman James Darnell produced a run for the East; but the West answered back in the bottom half of the inning when Francis hit another double and came across on a fielder’s choice. Francis' run concluded the scoring as the game ended 6-3 in favor of the East.

Fort Wayne rightfielder Sawyer Carroll was named player of the game after going 4-4 at the plate with a run scored.

What a game! Here's the thing: This recap? No added drama necessary. Reads like a baseball game. It was, just the way it should be.

Original:

First Crosstown Classic Takes Wrigleyville by Storm | NBC Chicago

2009-06-24T16:10:00.000-07:00

First Crosstown Classic Takes Wrigleyville by Storm NBC Chicago 6/24/09

This is a slideshow I created from pictures I took during the three days of the first Crosstown Classic.

CrossFit Training All About Performance

2009-06-16T16:05:00.000-07:00

Posted 6/16/09 on NBCChicago.com

Up a steel staircase in an undistinguished building on Chicago's North Side, five men and one woman are pouring sweat. Inside the second floor loft, kettlebells, weight plates and f-bombs are flying to the tune of Kanye West's "Stronger."

(Work it harder, make it better) N-n-now that that don't kill me
(Do it faster, makes us stronger) Can only make me stronger
(More than ever ever after) I need you to hurry up now
(Our work is never over) Cuz I can't wait much longer

The group is performing intermittently varied exercises at a high rate of intensity. They aren't stopping for water or conversation. Frankly, they aren't stopping for anything. Two men look on critiquing their technique. They are being timed. This is my first taste of CrossFit Chicago.

Inevitably, the group is finished. A couple lay on the floor exhausted. The female exerciser approaches me and asks if this is my first time here. Yes, I purposely over-dressed to avoid getting talked into this extreme workout. Good thing.

"Once you try it, you will never get out," she tells me.

Her name is Marissa Tanig, a nurse at Mt. Sinai Hospital. She has been coming here for just over a year and typically five times a week. Tanig has been a member of other fitness clubs but says CrossFit is not your ordinary gym.

"When you go to (other gyms) you're doing it on your own time. Here there are people that push you. The atmosphere is completely different. Everyone is here to support you, push you, help you get better."

CrossFit is the first consistent fitness experience for Kevin Blasko, a student at Western Michigan University. He worked out with CrossFit last summer and is back again while on break. He says the group atmosphere is what motivates him.

"I know for a fact I do better here than I would do elsewhere. It's competitive. You’re kind of like, 'This person is about the same as me,' so you want to beat them. I also give into the peer pressure. You don’t want to be last so you push yourself. You don't want to be the one that everyone is like, 'come on! come on!'"

I am more muscular than both Tanig and Blasko and remain a bit unconvinced about CrossFit’s extreme routine. Then I meet Rudy Tapallo, a Marine Corps veteran turned personal trainer who runs the CrossFit Chicago operation. Tapallo is short and sculpted with a friendly smile. He insists that I hold off writing this piece until I try a CrossFit workout. Deal.

It's 8 a.m. on a Wednesday morning and I'm climbing the steel staircase at 1962 N. Clybourn Ave. Inside CrossFit, Rudy gives me a detailed tour; the giant dry-erase board, the flags of the five military branches, the elevated stage where many of the workouts are performed. And those two buckets next to it? Well, those are for people who push themselves over the edge.

(Gulp.)

"One of the things we do here that (separates) us between (other gyms) and personal training is personal responsibility," says Tapallo. "The way we look at is -- you’re the CEO of your body. You know yourself the best. You're gonna know if you slept four hours last night or if you slept eight hours. If you ate breakfast or haven’t eaten in 12 hours."

Glimpsing at the buckets, I can't help but worry about my Cinnamon Toast Crunch being up-chucked in cinnamon toast chunks. Tapallo carries on, explaining my workout: 500 meters on the row machine, 40 "non-loaded" squats, 30 sit-ups, 20 push-ups and 10 jumping pull-ups...as quickly as possible.

“Most of our workouts are rated by time or load. We're not a weight loss facility and we're not a strength and resistance facility. What we care most about is performance. Whether you lose weight or get stronger is a byproduct of what we do. Performance is always what we are chasing," says Tapallo.

My performance is adequate. I finish in 7:21 (Rudy estimates most people finish in 6-9 minutes). I’ve broken a sweat and I'm a little short of breath, but truthfully, I am hardly worn out. I know I can push myself much farther. CrossFit understands my mentality.

"It doesn’t get easier as you profit, it's just keeping a consistent chase of finding what you can handle," says Tapallo. "If there was a black belt of fitness, that's what people here are trying to be. It's not about losing five pounds for summer, it's not trying to get a little more fit, it's about elite fitness; being the most fit you can be."

Top Ten Reasons Luke Harangody will return for his senior season - Top Ten Chicago Sports

2009-06-14T16:03:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Reasons Luke Harangody will return for his senior season - Top Ten Chicago Sports 6/14/09

Posted using ShareThis

"Since declaring himself eligible for the NBA Draft, Luke Harangody has worked out at the NBA Draft Combine and for several individual teams. With a new leaner physique, the forward from Notre Dame has improved his footwork and is getting off the floor better than ever before.

Still, 'Gody measured up to just 6'6" at the combine (6'8" in shoes) and his unorthodox shooting mechanics bother some NBA scouts. He would in all likelihood be a second-round pick and hard-pressed to find a role on an NBA team.

Unless Harangody has subtly received serious interest from a team, he will announce his decision to return to the Fighting Irish for his senior season. He has many good reasons."

Top Ten Chicago tantrums - Top Ten Chicago Sports

2009-06-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Chicago tantrums - Top Ten Chicago Sports 6/12/09
Posted using ShareThis

"Carlos Zambrano's recent ejection/explosion from a game against the Pirates was one for the ages. I'm always entertained by the extreme outpouring of emotion portrayed by athletes and coaches.

So where does Z's epic tantrum place in the context of recent Chicago sports history? I narrowed my scope to tantrums occurring during or immediately following a game. The more wildly exaggerated, overblown, unnecessary or unrestrained the better."

Blackhawks' Comeback Still the Best Ever

2009-06-01T15:27:00.000-07:00

Posted 6/1/09 on NBCChicago.com

From 1997-2007, the Chicago Blackhawks were about as exciting as Disney on Ice. In some areas of Chicagoland, you were more likely to see a fan wearing a Chicago Wolves sweater than a Blackhawks sweater. But after a few major front office moves aligned the paths of several savvy sportsmen, the Blackhawks orchestrated the greatest resurgence of a professional sports franchise in history.

Don't assume this last statement to be your usual case of sports blogger-hyperbole. The team's remarkable revival has caught the attention of more than your Indian-Head-hoodied Hawks fan. Cite for example, a recent article in Forbes magazine calling it The Greatest Sports-Business Turnaround Ever.

The numbers certainly quantify the statement. Research provided to the Chicago Tribune indicated the amount of Chicagoans identifying themselves as Blackhawks fans has doubled since 2007. Therefore, it's likely you are, as I am, a new-breed B-Hawks fan (high five). On our behalf, I offer this tip of the headdress to the leaders of Blackhawks Nation.

General Manager Dale Tallon has been in the organization since the 1998-99 season (not including his 16 years as Blackhawks color analyst), and deserves the credit for compiling this excellent group of young talent. Tallon's keen hockey sense allowed the acquiescence of trades for key contributors such as Patrick Sharp, Martin Havlat and Kris Versteeg. His foresight and extensive experience in player personnel made it possible to realize the talent of draftees Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane and Dustin Byfuglien. His tenacity in the free agent market delivered Brian Campbell and two stellar goalies; Nikolai Khabibulin and Cristobal Huet.

Of course, Tallon wouldn't have been able to amass that talent if it hadn’t been for Chairman Rocky Wirtz loosening the belt. After his father, William W. Wirtz (who served as Blackhawks president for 41 years) passed in October 2007, Rocky was faced with the burdensome challenge of restoring the once-proud Original Six franchise. With an eye of the tiger, Wirtz made the dynamic decisions necessary to return the club to relevance, sparking a Rocky Balboa-like ascension from mediocrity.

His greatest move was the hiring of John McDonough as President in November 2007. McDonough is a sports marketing genius who achieved extraordinary success during 24 years with the Chicago Cubs. I mean really, could any other franchise make losing as lovable as the Cubs have? No. But that's a blog for a different day.

The results have been nothing short of spectacular. Most importantly, McDonough was able to strike a television deal to broadcast all 82 games. He arranged a red-carpet rollout on opening night. He brought in Blackhawks legends Bobby Hull, Stan Mikita and Tony Esposito to serve as Blackhawks ambassadors. He set the city on fire by landing the NHL Winter Classic at Wrigley Field. The outdoor contest provided magnificent national exposure. The game drew the most viewers of a regular-season NHL game since 1975.

McDonough's system of sensationalism reinvigorated the Madhouse on Madison. Once again the arena is abuzz during the national anthem. Fervent fans frolic after every goal to The Fratelli’s feverishly catchy "Chelsea Dagger". Those who would've never paid a buck for a game's admission now crane their necks to watch "Shoot the Puck" at intermission.

And we, the newest Blackhawks devotees, are eating it up. More than 1 million fans churned the turnstiles at the United Center this season, leading the NHL in attendance. The season ticket base skyrocketed from 3,400 in 2007-08 to a current 14,000 – with 4,000 on the waiting list. Merchandise revenue has gone through the roof with an increase of 317 percent in the past year (Forbes). Oh, and about those Chicago Wolves sweaters? Well, they might make a hot ticket item at your summer garage sale.

Benson seeks redemption with Bengals

2008-10-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

Written for BleacherReport, 10/1/2008

Cincinnati Bengals Owner Mike Brown has a history of giving second chances to players with legal issues. Knowing that, fans should not be surprised by the Bengals signing of former Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson on Tuesday. Benson was spurned by the Bears and scorned by the media after two alcohol-related arrests over a five-week period earlier this year.

Headlines from Benson's arrests were enough to destroy his reputation and all but end his once promising career, regardless of what actually took place. Through it all, Benson maintained his innocence in both incidents.

"I'm sticking to my story," Benson said in May. "The truth will come out some time, whether it'll be now or a year from now or whenever."

The truth came out last week, when two Travis County grand juries decided not to indict Benson for the two alcohol-related arrests.

According to Travis County Attorney David Escamilla, there were problems in both cases. In a boating-while-intoxicated arrest on May 3, officials did not conduct a field sobriety test and there was no video evidence. Police initially reported Benson failed an abbreviated sobriety test and was placed under arrest by the Lower Colorado River Authority. They claimed he then became combative with the officers and was pepper-sprayed. Benson told a different story.

"I politely asked him why we needed to go to land to take more tests when I took every test," Benson said. "Then he sprayed me with mace, on his boat. I'm not handcuffed. I'm not under arrest. I'm not threatening him. I'm not pushing him. I'm not touching him. And he sprays me right in the eye."

Along with insisting he was not drunk and accusing the authorities of pepper-spraying him without provocation, Benson said the police kicked his feet out from under him, dragged him from the patrol boat and nearly drowned him with a water hose before dumping him into a squad car. The 12-15 passengers (including his mother) aboard Benson's 30-foot boat verified his account. Benson also told reporters every time he has taken his boat out, he has gotten pulled over for a "random safety inspection."

While at University of Texas, Benson earned a reputation as a pot-smoking partier. As an All-American football player who finished his collegiate career as the 6th leading rusher in Division I-A history, Benson was nearly untouchable to both defenders and law enforcement.

Then the kid became the fourth overall selection in the NFL draft and signed a multi-million dollar contract. In the off-seasons he returned home to Austin to lavishly enjoy his hard-earned money. Is it far-fetched to believe Austin authorities resented him for it?

On June 7, Benson was pulled over by the Austin Police Department for allegedly running a red light (Benson claims it was yellow) and performed a field sobriety test. Benson then offered to give a blood sample for testing (Texas law allows either a blood or breath test for alcohol content), but was told he would have to take a breath test. He was subsequently arrested for driving while intoxicated. There was video evidence of the encounter in which Benson actually "appears very well," Escamilla said.

Despite the glaring discrepancies of the two accounts, the attorney didn't believe Benson was being mistreated by police.

"We call them as we see them," Escamilla explained.

Well I call them as I see them too. And it's called racial profiling.

The City of Austin Police Department has been discriminating and incriminating African-Americans for years. According to studies of City of Austin documents, when APD officers have a choice to either issue a citation or make an arrest, Blacks in Austin are more than 3 times as likely to be arrested and incarcerated than others. Additionally, a person with black skin is 31 times more likely to be incarcerated than a person with white skin for the same drug crime. (keepaustinsafe.org)

Please read the last paragraph again, or as many times as it takes to sink in.

Now imagine: Benson passed a field sobriety test, offered to give a blood sample, appeared "very well" and was STILL arrested for driving while intoxicated!

Racial profiling is part of a larger societal issue that permeates much more than a police department. It seems as though everyone, even (if not especially) the Chicago Bears were out to portray Benson as Jerry Angelo's "disappointment;" a drunken, dopey-eyed dunderhead too dumb to stay out of trouble.

The Bears ranked 30th in the NFL in rushing yards per game and 32nd in yards per carry in 2007, Benson's first full season as a starter. Rather than the Bears receiving blame for making a poor draft selection, they were able to deflect it onto with Benson by convincing fans he was too much of a problem to keep his job.

Well he may have liked to party, he may have made poor decisions, he may have been an underachiever, but ultimately he was innocent of the crimes that terminated his non-guaranteed contract.

Of any of the players Mike Brown has given a second chance to, Benson is by far the most deserving. Hopefully he can go on to have the long, productive career once expected of him.

I can imagine him celebrating his first Bengals touchdown already...pointing up to the sky, then to his nose, and walking a straight line down the goal line. He can take a breath now, he has passed his biggest test.

Mark Bradley Becomes Latest Bears Bust

2008-09-25T14:39:00.000-07:00

Written for BleacherReport, 9/25/2008

On Tuesday, the Chicago Bears waived wide receiver Mark Bradley, the seventh pick in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. Bradley was a promising talent with his 6'2" frame, leaping ability, and above-average speed, but injuries nagged him throughout his time with the Bears.

In just over three seasons, he amassed only 38 catches for 583 yards and four touchdowns. Sadly, Bradley is only the most recent highly drafted prospect to bomb with the Bears.

With the fourth overall pick in the 2005 draft, the Bears took Cedric Benson, an All-American running back from Texas who finished his college career as the sixth-leading rusher in Division 1-A history. Like Bradley, Benson struggled with injuries and inconsistent play. It was Benson's trouble off the field that did him in, however. Following two alcohol-related arrests in five weeks, he was released by the Bears in June.

While Benson couldn't handle his liquor, Rex Grossman couldn't handle the pressures of being the Bears' starting quarterback. Selected with the 22nd overall pick in 2003, Grossman was hailed as the Bears' quarterback of the future. Injuries and inconsistent play proved to be the recurrent theme here, and after only 32 games in over five seasons, Grossman's days with the Bears seem to be limited.

At least Grossman made it further than the player the Bears selected eight picks earlier in the first round of 2003. Michael Haynes, drafted 14th overall after setting the Penn State record with 15 sacks in a season, could muster only 5.5 sacks over three seasons in Chicago.

Another defensive collegiate star, Dan Bazuin, was drafted in the second round of 2007 as Central Michigan's all-time leader in sacks and tackles for a loss as well as winning the 2006 MAC conference defensive player of the year.Unfortunately, Bazuin could never take part in a "Beaz-win" as injuries kept him from playing a single snap.

Another defensive lineman, Tank Johnson, was selected in the second round of the 2004 NFL Draft out of Washington. Tank was different than these other Bears flops because he actually played well in his time in Chicago. In his three seasons, he only missed two regular season games and was a great complement to fellow defensive tackle and draft-mate Tommie Harris.

While Tank was a weapon on the field, he also maintained an artillery of weapons and was arrested on gun charges in 2005. While on probation for the gun charges, he was charged with aggravated assault and resisting arrest (charges that were eventually dropped) as well as additional gun charges following a police raid of his home in December 2006. He ended up serving four months in jail after the 2006-2007 season.

The final blow came in June of 2007. After being stopped by police for speeding, he was suspected of being impaired "to the slightest degree." He was released by the Bears a few days later.

To put this all in perspective, there are a number of high draft picks who have performed as badly as Bradley. In the past, I was quick to defend these players because of their draft status, but recent history is teaching fans not to.

While some picks like Charles Tillman, Tommie Harris, and Devin Hester have been great, six out of the 11 Bears selected in the first and second rounds from 2003-2007 have flopped. Four are no longer playing in the NFL.

So long, Mark Bradley. We barely knew thee

Is Tom Brady's injury as bad as reported?

2008-09-11T14:38:00.000-07:00

Written for BleacherReport on 9/11/2008

Unless you are just getting back from a space visit, you have heard about Tom Brady’s season-ending knee injury suffered Sunday in the New England Patriots’ first game against the Kansas City Chiefs. It almost seemed as though Brady’s season was over before it started. Although test results had yet to be revealed, one Patriots player went so far as to tell ESPN analyst Trent Dilfer after the game, "Cassel's our quarterback for the rest of the year."

Last year, the New England Patriots were the hottest team in football while going undefeated throughout the regular season before being upset by the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII. It was a season Tom Brady could seemingly do no wrong, setting the league record with an incredible 50 touchdown passes on his way to winning league MVP.

It was too good to be true. The hype the Patriots generated was accompanied with a spattering of news termed “Spygate” which detailed the team’s illegal taping of opponent’s defensive signals. Additionally, speculation arose that games (such as the week 14 Monday Night Football fiasco) were improperly officiated in the Patriots’ favor so the perfect season could remain the primary tactic in the NFL Network’s war with cable companies. But I’ll save that story for another day.

In April, Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Head Coach Bill Belichick apologized for cheating at the NFL owners meeting. The team and the league put matters behind them and moved on. But when this new season started, a foot injury Brady had been dealing with throughout the playoffs still lingered and kept him out of every preseason game.

Then, less than a quarter of the way through the first regular season game, his season was over. After the game, the Patriots issued a one-paragraph statement revealing Brady’s left knee required season-ending surgery. The Patriots, notoriously non-descript about player injuries would disclose no further information. As could be expected, Belichick would not say what the injury was.

Mass conjecture ensued. It’s his ACL! It’s his MCL! No, it’s both!

Yesterday, the Boston Globe cited NFL Sources in reporting Brady has both a torn ACL and a torn MCL in his left knee. If this is true, why haven’t we heard this from the Patriots? Who are these sources and why are they being discreet? For all we really know, these sources are completely unfounded and the reports are nothing more than rumors.

Granted, from the replay, the injury doesn’t look good. Chiefs Safety Bernard Pollard is blocked into Brady’s knee causing the leg to contort in an awkward collapse (I’ll take this opportunity to note his lack of knee pads). Brady then goes down screaming in pain and is attended to by the trainers. Eventually he walks off the field, down a set of stairs and out of the season. This is the part that confounds me. I’m no Tom Brady, but torn anything - and I’m not standing, I’m not walking, and I’m certainly not taking the stairs.

When Cincinnati Bengal quarterback Carson Palmer tore his ACL in the 2005 Playoffs, he needed to be carted off. It only seems appropriate an injury of that magnitude would require a cart. Yesterday, Brady appeared at the Patriots facilities to meet with teammates. He was without crutches, but walked with a limp.

The NFL’s Competition Committee regulates a system where the best teams get worse and the worst teams get better. Now that the Patriots have apologized for their years of cheating, are they preparing to accept defeat? After all, that would only seem fair. And if that was the case, it would only make sense not to jeopardize the legacy and long-term health of your greatest player.

So is Brady’s knee blown out of its ligaments or blown out of proportion? Were the Patriots planning to give Brady the season off on the injured reserve? This season was the first time in Brady’s career he did not take a preseason snap, and I’m not buying the excuse of a 7 month old foot injury. Perhaps even more curious is that Sunday marked the first time in 56 games the Patriots did NOT list Brady on the injury report. Talk about jinxing a guy.

My point in all of this is not to question the moxie of Tom Brady or the legitimacy of his injury. It’s to point out that regarding professional sports injuries, there is usually more to the story than what meets the eye (or knee).

Police arrest two fraternity members for break-in - News

2008-03-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

Police arrest two fraternity members for break-in - News 3/21/08
A very controversial story, but perhaps the best news piece I have done to date.

"Two members of the Sigma Chi fraternity were arrested in the early morning hours Saturday, March 15 with charges of attempted burglary, criminal trespassing and breaching the peace."

Simpkins in dire need of renovation - Opinion

2008-03-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

Simpkins in dire need of renovation - Opinion 3/21/08
Wrote this during spring break. One of my creative favorites.

"Simpkins Hall being haunted has been a rumor floating around for years. After four years of this journalism major's inspection, I would contest its problem lies not in the paranormal, but rather in the subnormal condition of the facilities."

A tip of the hat to Lincoln and Darwin

2008-02-11T11:13:00.000-08:00

Nine score and 19 years ago, Abraham Lincoln was born in a one-room log cabin in rural Kentucky. Fifty-one years later, he had worked his way up to a 132-room mansion on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. Remembered as the liberator of slaves and one of the most idealized presidents of our nation, it is incredible to note that he may not be the most influential man turning the big 1-9-9 tomorrow.

Charles Darwin was born into a much more fortunate upbringing in Shrewsbury, Shopshire, England. He was privately schooled and studied to become an Anglican parson. In 1831, he gave up the practice to voyage to South America and journal his thoughts and explorations. His research became a lifelong passion for scientific theory. Presently, combined with Gregor Mendel's work in genetics, his work forms the basis of modern biology.

Besides being born on the same day in history, the two both believed in the quality of truth in their purposes. The legacies of these men are of equally high significance, and to further embellish them, I have prepared a lyrical list of lessons to remember.

• Less than one year before Lincoln won the presidential election of 1860, Darwin released "The Origin of Species", which were both controversial occurrences of the time regarding political acts and scientific theses.

• While scientists debated natural selection, the South confederated by national secession. Increasing turmoil gave both men bouts with depression.

• Lincoln's "reconstruction" ignited a revival of the U.S.; Applying Darwinism we might consider it a governmental version of survival of the fittest.

• After losing their mothers as children, both matured rather quickly. Their trauma rekindled as both men's own children grew sickly. Such experiences with death impacted religious behavior. Darwin denounced Christianity but Lincoln eventually believed in a savior.

• Lincoln's legacy was shaped by honesty and bravery. He freed blacks from the injustice of slavery. Darwin, who received heavy religious criticism, freed minds from the church, birthing agnosticism.

So how can we commemorate the birth of the two great emancipators? In Illinois and a few other states, Lincoln's birthday is a legal holiday. It is often commonly recognized along with Washington's birthday on President's Day, the third Monday of February.

Last year, DarwinDay.org recognized 850 Darwin Day events worldwide. In a press release, Matt Cherry, executive director of the Institute for Humanist Studies said:

"Darwin Day promotes understanding of evolution and the scientific method. This celebration expresses gratitude for the enormous benefit that scientific knowledge has contributed to the advancement of humanity."

But just how far has humanity advanced? In the same press release, it states: "Recent Gallup polls show that 43 percent of Americans reject the theory of evolution and instead believe that 'God created human beings pretty much in their present form at one time within the last 10,000 years or so.' And at least four 2008 presidential candidates have said they do not believe the theory of evolution."

What would "Honest Abe" consider to be true? Lincoln rejected fundamental religion after studying Calvinism as a child. It is believed that not until after the death of his son Willie and the carnage of the Battle of Gettysburg did he rekindle interest in Christianity.

Lincoln was challenged for his secular stance on religion and agreed with the separation of one's religious affiliation from one's political beliefs. As a loyal Whig, he based much of his political and moral philosophy on the Declaration of Independence.

As Darwinism becomes increasingly accepted and scientific research continually proves Darwin's theories, a conjunction of celebrations could generate truth with a more modern preamble that reflects the equally infinite legacies of both men.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal (in a political context, but are biologically products of different gene pools, providing variants of the species that are favorable or unfavorable for survival).

Original posted 2/11/2008 on WesternCourier.com

Don't let winter put you in a funk - Opinion

2008-02-08T14:16:00.000-08:00

Don't let winter put you in a funk - Opinion 2/8/08
I wrote this after a well-liked student committed suicide in his dorm room. It's a list of little things to do to keep happy.

"The winter months of the Midwest can put a funk on anyone's optimism, especially after tragic times. It is essential for humans to provide a beacon of light for those who are slowly sinking toward darkness. Here are a few suggestions."

When it comes to marriage, where is the love? - Opinion

2007-11-28T14:12:00.000-08:00

Originally published: When it comes to marriage, where is the love? - Opinion Western Courier, 11/28/07

I'm concerned for the institution of marriage. After divorce rates nearly doubled from the 1960s to the 1990s, Americans have been much more hesitant to tie the knot.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, from October 2005 to October 2006, the marriage rate in the United States set a new record low at 7.5 people per 1,000. It appears Americans are attempting to learn from their mistakes. In this same period of time, the divorce rate also dropped to 3.6 per 1,000, the lowest since 1970. But the answer to increased divorce rates is not decreased marriage rates: It is respect for true love.

I believe the current trend is a result of the materialistic culture our society has come to value. People view everything in their lives, even spouses, as commodities. When these commodities no longer provide benefits, they are considered useless and obtrusive to an individual's pursuit of happiness. And when we are no longer happy with our partners, we fight, we break up, we divorce, and we choose to love no one more than ourselves.

So young girls are taught to shop for husbands. The messages are all over the media.

It's like pop culture contrives that women should strive for designer bling, finer things and glamorous lifestyles entitled by bridal.

Ladies' men, keen to Mercedes-Benz, must shell out their dollars if they choose to holler at ladies with luscious rear ends.

Love, some can say, is a dollar away, girl you must find a man that spends. And when he starts buying the things you've been eyeing; halve his worth when he buys you that diamond!

Look, Fergie! I can sell rhyming lyrics of extravagant selfishness to children, too. Or did Kanye West say it best? "WE WANT PRE-NUP!"

But where materialism wins, society loses. These girls grow up believing the man for them is the one who makes them happiest by fulfilling their modern fairy tale American dreams. What they're failing to realize is that happiness should not be the main benefit of marriage. True love should be.

But who cares? Love only really exists to those who realize what it is to be true. Too commonly the happiness from dating and sex is mistaken for the happiness of true love. The truth is, true love does not stem from flattery, flatulence, humor or happiness.

It has been said (and popularized in the movie "Wedding Crashers") true love is the soul's recognition of its counterpoint in another person. How beautiful. What is most interesting is its inference that love comes from differences rather than similarities. If Americans are pursuing the greedy lifestyle encouraged by the little guys with devil horns sitting on their left shoulders, there needs to be a counterpoint on the right, with wings, guiding and caring for the individual. Unfortunately, so many Americans are obliviously shrugging that angel off.

It is particularly important for college-aged people to realize this. When dating, do not denounce your partner for countering your thoughts and opinions. Embrace it. Don't be afraid to search and compromise for common truths and beliefs. When you find a person who can respectfully recognize your faults and imperfections, let them guide and care for you. In true love, mutual trust will allow this to go both ways. If you are happy spending your life with someone who agrees with everything you do, you don't need a spouse. You already have that bond with the little guy on your left shoulder.

Pakistani crisis close to home - News

2007-11-14T14:07:00.000-08:00

Pakistani crisis close to home - News 11/14/07
"Call it a crisis, call it an emergency, call it martial law, call it whatever you want. It is the responsibility of the Pakistani people to decide what to make of their political unrest - for now.

When Pakistani President Gen. Pervez Musharraf suspended the country's constitution due to a declared state of emergency Nov. 3, Pakistani exchange students at Western Illinois University were hesitant in addressing concerns over the welfare of their country."

Unify athletics teams under same name - Opinion

2007-11-07T14:01:00.000-08:00

Unify athletics teams under same name - Opinion 11/7/07
My argument to rid the Women's "Westerwind" nickname and unify with the Men's "Leathernecks". The change was eventually made in Spring of 2009. I like to think my column had something to do with it.

"A time-out is needed for Western Illinois University women's athletics. The reason? Name calling. Leathernecks or Westerwinds; what's in a name, anyway?

With the proposal to unify the Western athletics team names sitting on President Al Goldfarb's desk, it is important to understand why the change is imminent."

Western Lites Cafe brings healthy meals to Western - News

2007-11-05T14:04:00.000-08:00

Western Lites Cafe brings healthy meals to Western - News 11/5/07
"Homework never tasted so good. Students and faculty looking to take a break from fast food or the cafeteria can check out Western Lites Cafe, a restaurant whose staff is - literally - in a class of its own."

Pit packs pre-gamers - News

2007-08-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

Pit packs pre-gamers - News 8/31/07
"The smell of the grill and the anticipation of another Leatherneck football season were in the air Thursday before Western's home opener against South Dakota State. As tradition follows, N-lot was swarmed with thousands of tailgating enthusiasts, transforming the parking lot into 'The Pit.'"

Sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll in the classroom - News

2007-08-27T13:52:00.000-07:00

Sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll in the classroom - News 8/27/07
Three unique classes explore components of party culture
"In the words of Ian Dury and the Blockheads, 'Sex and drugs and rock 'n' roll is all my brain and body need, sex and drugs and rock 'n' roll are very good indeed.' Although Western Illinois University cannot condone the wild lifestyle glorified in the British punk rock band's 1977 anthem, it offers classes that allow students to get rowdy about learning."

Smorgasbord promotes studying abroad - News

2007-08-24T13:49:00.000-07:00

Smorgasbord promotes studying abroad - News 8/24/07
"On the evening's menu was chicken panang with white rice (a spicy dish from Thailand), borscht (Russian soup), rotkohl (German salad), hummus with pita chips (Middle Eastern dip) and natilla (Central and South American custard-style dessert). Students enjoyed the food for a variety of reasons.

'It's a little spicy, but, hey, it's free,' said Dan Smith, senior economics major.

As far as studying abroad, the response was much more decisive.

'No, no,' said Smith."

BSA's Davis avid about agenda - News

2007-08-22T13:47:00.000-07:00

BSA's Davis avid about agenda - News 8/22/07
"Michael Davis has been president of the Black Student Association for the past year. In an interview with the WC, Davis shared his enthusiasm for the organization's goals."

Rec Center beefs up - News

2007-08-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

Rec Center beefs up - News 8/17/07
"The Donald S. Spencer Student Recreation Center, like many of its visitors, is currently focused on getting big. The fuel that drives it, however, is more than your average banana yogurt protein shake - it is $6.2 million in student fees."

Group promotes 'Unity' despite opposition - News

2007-04-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

Group promotes 'Unity' despite opposition - News 4/16/07 "Western Illinois University's Unity celebration began with fulfillment of its goal for the week - awareness.

As the 20th Annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Awareness Week began last Monday, Unity met opposition from a religious group, which protested and picketed outside of the University Union from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

'They stated that we all were going to die from AIDS,' said Jimmy Peterson, president of Unity. 'Many walked by and were obviously disgusted by their presence and would yell out against them.'"

Students come out ahead in close contest - News

2007-03-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

Students come out ahead in close contest - News 3/9/07
"It took a buzzer-beating three-pointer from Pi Kappa Alpha Vice President Luke Balestri for the students to squeeze out a 35-32 win against a much older faculty and alumni team in the Student Alumni Association's Faculty and Alumni vs. Student Basketball Game Wednesday night in Western Hall."

Festival focuses on New Orleans soul - News

2007-02-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

Festival focuses on New Orleans soul - News 2/26/07
"The Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center used its 21st Annual Soul Food Festival on Saturday to recognize the New Orleans culture that was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in August 2005. Over 100 students, faculty members and families gathered in the Western Illinois University Union's Lamoine Room to enjoy cuisine commonly referred to as 'soul food.'"

A different shade of color can make all the difference - News

2007-02-23T13:40:00.000-08:00

A different shade of color can make all the difference - News 2/23/07

"Issues that fuel interracial racism were discussed by nearly 50 students on Thursday night at "The Color Complex," an open discussion hosted by the Black Student Association in the University Union."

International House serves up another hit - News

2005-12-02T13:39:00.000-08:00

International House serves up another hit - News 12/2/05
"The International House opened its doors to the public Wednesday afternoon to provide an authentic Indonesian cuisine lunch and informative slide show presentation to educate Western Illinois University students, faculty and Macomb residents about the culture of Indonesia."

How to prepare for an emergency - News

2005-10-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

How to prepare for an emergency - News 10/17/05
"McDonough County Health Department runs emergency response exercise Friday in Western Hall"

Western students dash for cash and a cause - News

2005-09-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

Western students dash for cash and a cause - News 9/30/05
"The Western Illinois University campus turned into a playground of students frantically trying to win $600.

U.S. Cellular hosted a 'Dash for a Cause' event yesterday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. that was based in the University Union. For every team that participated, U.S. Cellular donated $50 to the American Red Cross to benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina."

The human jukebox comes to Western - News

2005-08-31T13:17:00.000-07:00

The human jukebox comes to Western - News 8/31/05
"'You request it - he plays it!" billed the flyers hung around campus. About 50 spectators came to University Union Plaza Monday at 6 p.m. to witness a performance by a one-of-a-kind musical act. John Rush, a.k.a. "The Human Jukebox," played a two-hour set that allowed the audience to experience something special."

Copper Chef: the culinary contest - News

2005-04-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

Copper Chef: the culinary contest - News 4/13/05
"The Rolling Stones' 'Jumpin' Jack Flash' blared and spotlights flashed on an extravagantly designed kitchen stage in Western Illinois University's West Dining Center. The song and lights were just the opening of Monday's hour-and-a-half-long culinary competition between two Western chefs that declared the champion as the 'Copper Chef.'"

Anything but Bland - News

2005-03-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

Anything but Bland - News 3/4/05
"Charles Bland, a 57-year-old manufacturing engineering technology major at Western Illinois University, strolls into the University Union food court five minutes early for this interview, and, first coming to Western in 1965, 36 years late for his college degree. His old cap rests on his head, briefcase in hand and shirt pocket supplied with an assortment of writing utensils. He was ready to tell his story."

Quit your clamor; learn your grammar - Opinion

2005-03-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

Quit your clamor; learn your grammar - Opinion 3/4/05
I received a lot of attention for this column, namely my college professors. I heard it also made it's way to my high school where Mrs. Nies hung it on her bulletin board for the year. I don't like it as much as I used to because it may come across as being overly critical of other students. But if you had to sit through some of those classes, you may have felt the same way. I received an "A" in the History class this column addresses.

'Burned' into memory - News

2005-01-24T12:38:00.000-08:00

'Burned' into memory - News 1/24/05
A celebration of Scottish culture and particularly the works of world-renowned poet and songwriter Robert Burns. A very memorable assignment and one of my favorite reads.

Holiday hysteria makes for stress - Opinion

2004-12-10T12:30:00.000-08:00

Holiday hysteria makes for stress - Opinion 12/10/04
Published on my 19th birthday..."This past Thanksgiving in Worcester, Mass., a 24-year-old man stabbed his 18-year-old nephew several times and his 49-year-old brother-in-law once after the two criticized the 24-year-old for not using his knife to slice his turkey, but rather picking at it with his fingers. ('You want me to use my knife?! I'll use my knife!') Now tell me he wasn't feeling a little holiday stress."

Redefining 'Home Alone' with physics - News

2004-12-08T12:21:00.000-08:00

Redefining 'Home Alone' with physics - News 12/8/04
One of my all-time favorite news assignments. Great show - fun and educational. Makes for a very entertaining read.

So, you like your music - ?/?/2004-05

2004-11-24T12:40:00.000-08:00

This was a column I wrote for the Courier sometime during my freshman year. For some reason, it was never added to the website's archives. I have the clipping, so I will re-type it for you here.

The dorms are alive with the sound of music - and it's not a situation I'm singing about. On just about every floor in my residence hall, it seems there are one or two students who apparently feel it is their responsibility to act as "floor D.J." and allow everyone else to "enjoy" whatever kind of music they're into.

As you walk down the hallways, you can hear different rooms competing with each other for musical control of the floor. The students blare their music as if every turn of the volume knob were to spitefully say, "I love my music this much more than you."

And it's not like I have a problem with music. I enjoy music just as much as any other person. But the cacophony the competitors create could cause Bheetoven to roll in his grave (and plug his ears).

Do people literally have to feel the music to "feel" the music? Is it right that my naps are disturbed by Disturbed? Why do I have to ignore the screams of AFI or the thumps of DMX when I just want to catch some Zs? I just don't understand it.

If you hear me on this issue (because you can't hear anything else), you could attempt drowning out the typically hardcore music with some of the most annoying music you can find. Though I understand many do not have the means or patience to do so.

So rather than being negative or ignorant to the D.J.s music, why not twist it to your own sarcastic benefit?

When your floormate wakes you up to the muddle of Puddle of Mudd, why not request they throw it on every day at specifically 8 a.m. so you don't have to set your alarm? When your neighbor's sub-woofers are thumping so loud that your pictures fall off the wall, just lie on your bed and thank him for the massage the vibrations gave you.

If they don't take the hint, start singing along, louder and more annoyingly than the music until they turn it down and ask you to stop. At that point just roll your eyes back in your head and say, "God I love music." And faint.

D.J.s, if you're out there, we understand you love your music. Just please understand others may not. The dorms may be alive with the sound of your music, but please "do-(re)-me" a favor and turn it down.

Kids get a date to skate - News

2004-11-15T12:15:00.000-08:00

Kids get a date to skate - News 11/15/04
Spencer Student Recreation Center home to skating party with an anti-germ twist Saturday

Invasion: A call to arms - Opinion

2004-10-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Invasion: A call to arms - Opinion 10/15/04
A farce of the asian long-horned beetle infestations we would experience each fall at Western. Written the first semester of my freshman year.