Fourteen hours. Fourteen of the most shocking hours of my life. I was in jail. I possessed a fake ID and was arrested for "tampering with a government document" when a bouncer apparently had absolutely zero tolerance for such trickery. Most bouncers simply take the ID and tell you to leave. Others, those on the shadier side, make you pay them for it and then ask you to leave. I wasn't so fortunate with this guy.
I was 20 years old and barely drank--heck, I wasn't even drinking that night and have affidavits to prove it. I was simply trying to spend time with some people I looked up to--industry mentors of mine. There's no need to get in to more details--if you want them, ask--but what's important to understand is that fortunately NO ONE (to my knowledge) has ever held it against me. If nothing else, it has been a conversation starter and a joke to those who were a part of the experience.
It was innocent and harmless but, it was wrong. According to my records, it never happened and I do not have a criminal record. Neither does Lebron James.
Lebron James. Heard of him? Maybe? We beg and plead today's superstars to serve as role models to our youth. We want them to smile and have a reputation of being a great person. We want them to work hard, act unselfishly, if possible, overcome some adversity, and be without a criminal record. All of those apply to Lebron James. Yet, he remains one of sports biggest villains.
A few years ago, LBJ made a mistake. He listened to people he trusted. That was his mistake. Those people orchestrated the birth and creation of "The Decision." They told Lebron, this is a great idea because of this and that and this and that and it can raise money for the Boys & Girls Club. Without realizing the gravity of what he agreed to, Lebron listened and Lebron trusted and Lebron acted. That was the trigger of his rebirth as sports' greatest villain. And that was his biggest mistake. Not even a simple DUI. A charitable action that slapped some people in the face is what Lebron is most guilty of. Does he have an ego? Sure. But so did MJ and everyone loves him. And was the ensuing pep rally and his comments a little over the top? Sure. But, once again, we celebrate and love athletes who have faced severe legal problems, like Ray Lewis, for instance. Lebron's mistakes occurred two years ago. It's time to give it up. If you don't, you are going to fail to appreciate something incredibly special: watching one of the greatest basketball players of all time. And, dare I say, when all is said and done, possibly the greatest of all time.
When I see Lebron, I see someone who wants to win. Instead of seeing his move to Miami as him trying to bully the rest of the NBA, I see someone who asked for help. I see someone who sacrificed a part of his legacy by "teaming up" to accomplish his greatest goals. And now, two years later, can we all agree that Lebron's move did not ruin the NBA--if anything, it made it that much greater. How exciting was this NBA Finals matchup? The Heat didn't underperform and barely win--they improved and played great and had to win hard fought games throughout the entire playoffs.
Lebron is a leader, evidenced by how his teammates rally around him and support him. Additionally, he is a great teammate. He is unselfish. He gets criticized for passing too much. He plays defense--possibly at a level greater than anyone else ever. He takes on criticism from everyone in stride. He doesn't snap. He keeps working harder. He perseveres. He takes his failures and turns them into positives. All admirable qualities. Yet, why is he so hated?
It's time for people to wake up. Forgive, forget, and move on. Do yourself a favor and realize what you are witnessing. I'm not saying you have to root for him or love him, but realize you are watching one of the greatest of all-time and, someone who is a great role model on how to play the game the right way.
I used to resent Lebron James. I have learned to like him. No, sorry...I have learned to love him.
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Mike Freeman of CBS Sports came out with his list of the 10 biggest jerks in the NFL. Which Lion(s) made the list?
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Intern, Chris Healey, spoke with MLB Fan Cave's Ashley Chavez about her Giants, the Cave, and much more
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Local Flavor Served up by Jake Riepma
Greetings sports fans and Crunch Time enthusiasts and welcome to another edition of delicious Local Flavor. By now you know the drill and you’re aware of what Local Flavor is all about. We’re examining our outstanding city of Midland and discussing some things you may or may not know about the one and only, Midland, MI. This edition’s topic of discussion involves a couple of enjoyable, cost efficient, fun ways to spend an afternoon or some free time with friends.
We begin on the banks of the Tittabawassee River near downtown Midland for our first look at ways to enjoy a summer afternoon in Midland. If you start out by the downtown Tridge and head towards the dog park, continue walking this way along the trails in the woods by the river and soon you’ll reach a humongous old oak tree. Attached to the enormous oak is a shady looking rope swing that over hangs the water. Do not be alarmed by the seemingly dangerous appearance of this rope swing, it’s completely safe! Grabbing hold of the rope and catapulting into the Tittabawassee River is always exhilarating and makes for some good old fashioned fun in the sun. There’s also the suspense of wondering what possibly could be in the signature brown colored waters as you plunge into the refreshing river. Growing up, this is something I did all the time and is a great way to spend a couple of hours on a warm afternoon. So if you’re in Midland and are looking for something new and unique, grab some swimming trunks, pack a picnic, and head on down the trails of the Tittabawassee River and find that old oak tree with the rope swing and have yourself some good old fashioned fun!
For our next venture we continue relatively close to the previous location, in the woods on the banks of the Tittabawassee River. Also close to the downtown dog-park, you’ll find a unique frisby golf (frolf) course that bends and winds along the river and through the woods. A great way to spend an afternoon with friends is tossing the old Frisbee around, at a challenging frolf course. The course offers something for everyone, whether you’re out with friends enjoying an afternoon or an experienced frolfer looking for a challenging course, the downtown course in Midland is perfect for you. It’s also fun in that it doesn’t cost to use the facility. However, you must bring your own Frisbees to use.
Last but certainly not least, I present Emerson Park. This city run park is a great way to get outside during the summer months and enjoy a good ole fashioned picnic as well as play some softball or even roller hockey. Emerson Park has a roller hockey area complete with boards, nets, and everything else needed for a game. You simply bring your stick and a puck, and you’ve got the perfect location for a roller hockey game with your buddies. The rink also transforms into an ice rink during the winter months and offers a perfect facility to play pond style hockey with friends except on a better quality rink with boards and goals. Also at Emerson Park you’ll find a huge picnic area with grills perfect for a big gathering or barbeque. Finally, my favorite park about Emerson Park is the softball fields with stadium style seating. If you don’t enjoy a softball game and barbeque with friends in the summer months, you’re crazy!
Friends, there is now no reason to say, “I’m bored” if you’re in Midland. It’s all about getting out there and finding creative ways to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. The more you make the effort to do this, the more ways you find to have fun. I’ve highlighted three great ways to start, but remember, there are endless ways to enjoy Midland, MI and other cities like it. So start today, get out there and have some fun in Midland today!
Savages hits the theatres in: 7 DAYS.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weekend Trivia Question: Which athletes are the silhouettes in the MLB and NBA logos?
Thursday Trivia Answer: Wayne Turner (Kentucky), Walter Hodge (Florida), Deon Thompson (UNC), Darius Miller (Kentucky), David Lighty (Ohio State)
With Pratt Maynard's cinderella story continuing after a win over Jarret Martin, we have just one more ELITE 8 matchup left...Check out to see who is the last entrant into the Final Four...
Scott Schebler vs. Andrew EdgeROUND 1
Scott Schebler vs. Andrew EdgeROUND 2
Scott Schebler vs. Andrew EdgeROUND 3
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Savages hits the theatres in: 8 DAYS.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thursday Trivia Question: Who are the only five college basketball players in NCAA history to have logged more than 150 career games?
Wednesday Trivia Answer: Joe McCarthy, Al Dark, Yogi Berra, Dick Williams, Sparky Anderson, Tony LaRussa, and Jim Leyland
15 weeks, 15 different combinations of dippable appetizers, mostly featuring a chip and a sauce of some kind. What are some of your favorites? What would you like to see us bring to the table? Let us knows: espnproduction@espn1009.com or email me: jsandler@espn1009.com
For now, we are simply following our internal path. This week, our special guest is the spontaneously hilarious, Kevin Rathbun. If Chips & Dip was a sports franchise, then our GM just won executive of the year for this pickup. Tune in to this weeks hilarity and riveting discussion: CHIPS & DIP XV
Chips & Dip XV is brought to you by...
...#15 Vince Carter (just so we could relive this amazing display of athleticism and basketball ability mixed with whiteness)
*Yes, I know for Team USA VC did not wear #15, but Jordan didn't wear 23 and people still recognize him by those digits
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Savages hits the theatres in: 9 DAYS.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wednesday Trivia Question: Who are the seven MLB managers in history to have won pennants in both leagues?
So here's the second installment of Tuesday Tabletalk with Andrew Edge. The Loons catcher is teaming up with me to host to chit-chat. Trust me, cruising through Andrew's head is an adventure in itself.
If you didn't know this already, I'm in love with Blake Lively. I've been counting this down for some time but now that countdown is heading in to its Crunch Time stages: Savages hits the theatres in: 10 DAYS. Thus, we get unveil a different picture of my Hollywood crush each day...
I like Dan LeBatard's work...I don't know that he's submitting this rant for a Marconi Award, but it's funny nonethless...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tuesday Trivia Question: Which former Indians slugger retired in the early 1970's to pursue a professional golf career?
Monday Trivia Answer: Jon Daniels, when the Rangers hired him at 28 years old and 41 days
The trainer of any professional sports team is one of the most unheralded contributors to that team's ability to function. They are the ones who deal with the major interviews but they are also the ones who deal with the bumps and bruises no one hears about. It's time to get to know the Loons' athletic trainer, Aaron Schumacher
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monday Trivia Question:Â The Orlando Magic just named 30 year old Rob Hennigan as their GM. Who was the youngest GM in baseball history?Â
In case you missed it, here are last night's interviews from SportsNight...
-Sports Illustrated's Sam Amick talks to us about all things NBA, including the future of the Pistons
-ESPN'sBeckley Masontalks the NBA Finals and LeBron's place in history
-Loons outfielder, Scott Schebler, discusses soccer, sushi, reading, and a little baseball
-Phil Zaroofrom MLive.com joined us to talk about the Lions as training camp nears
-2012 GLIAC Freshman Golfer of the Year, Micah Skidmore
-Charles Tillman was not too thrilled with a math problem his son was asked to solve in class...You have to check this out.
-A shout out to my beloved Texas Rangers and the station at which I grew up, my also beloved 1310 The Ticket in Dallas, TX for teaming up to earn 2012 Promotion of the Year
-There's a reason why he goes by Floyd "Money" Mayweather. The man, as crazy as he is, is very smart with his money and in a Scott Boras-like fashion, has regulated purses so heavily in his favor.
-I'm all about relaxing and letting off some steam before the game. I understand each player has his or her own ritual. You gotta do what you gotta do, right? Apparently, White Sox shortstop, Alexei Ramirez, likes to light up a cigar before the game every now and again...
In case you missed it on the Jimmy Fallon Show, here's a great "History of Dad's Dancing" done by the host, himself...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LOCAL FLAVOR SERVED UP BY JAKE RIEPMA
Welcome back everyone to another serving of some tasty local flavor, brought to you by yours truly, Jake Riepma. If you’re wondering why it took two weeks for another edition of local flavor to be featured, the reason is simple: That’s how long I’ve been searching for something unique and original about Midland, MI! Alright, alright stop laughing out loud (LOL-ing) I was just kidding. But anyways, without further mumble jumble, I present to you, the second edition of Local Favor Served up by Jake Riepma.
As you may or may not know, a huge event that is near and dear to my heart is rapidly approaching in Midland, MI and will be taking place on July 12th-14th, right here in Midland. The event is in its third year of existence and has experienced significant growth each of the last two years while bringing together hundreds of people of all ages from around the Midland area and beyond. That’s right ladies and gentlemen; I’m referring to the one and only, Partridge Park Summer Classic. For those who don’t already know, Partridge Park is a wiffle ball field located at 6200 Partridge, Lane that has developed into a premier wiffle ball venue over the years thanks to a large group of supporters and hard-workers who have continuously compiled numerous significant field renovations. The field evolved from an empty lot and now contains some of the most unique field features that strive to create a field unlike any other. If you’re struggling to create a visual, check the photos out for yourself at PartridgePark.com as well as on facebook.com/PartridgePark.
No other event screams local flavor louder than the Partridge Park Summer Classic as this tournament and wiffle ball park originated in Midland, MI, and is as unique to Midland as anything else. Also, as far as wiffle ball tournaments are concerned, the Partridge Park Summer Classic captures all angles of an entertaining and uniquely enjoyable experience by offering everything you could imagine including non-stop wiffle ball, opening ceremonies complete with fireworks & a live national anthem performance on electric guitars, swimming & dancing, concession and t-shirt sales, yard games for fans to enjoy during games, live broadcasts of every game with play-by-play announcers, night games under the lights, trophy presentations including the “Golden Bat” award given to the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, as well as so much more! If you’re interested in participating in the Partridge Park Summer Classic, and experiencing a taste of Midland for yourself, gather up a team of 4-7 players and sign up at www.PartridgePark.com, it’s that easy!
That’ll do it for this edition of Local Flavor, hope you enjoyed learning about Midland’s unique wiffle ball venue located at 6200 Partridge, Lane, and I hope you make your way to the Partridge Park Summer Classic as either a spectator to enjoy the atmosphere, or as a player competing for the Golden Bat and championship trophy!
Farewell for now friends!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weekend Trivia Question: Who is the only NBA players to have at least 3 total NBA Championships and have won them with at least 3 different teams?
Thursday Trivia Answer: Chipper Jones & Joe DiMaggio
We are edging closer to the Final Four as we present you with another Elite 8 matchup. Today, the #1 seed, Jason West, squares off with the #9 seed, Kevin Taylor.
But first, in case you missed it, check out last night's SportsNight interviews... Vince Ellis: Pistons, Detroit Free Press Kirkland Crawford: Tigers, Detroit Free Press O'Koyea Dickson: Loons 1B and MWL All-Star Game MVP
Round 1
Round 2
Round 3
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thursday Trivia Question: Who are the only two players in MLB History to have 7+ seasons of hitting .300+, having 100+ RBIs, and being a part of a division winner?
Wednesday Trivia Answer: Derek Jeter, Ichiro, and Michael Young
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wednesday Trivia Question: Who are the only three active MLB players with 200+ hits in 3+ consecutive seasons during their career?
Tuesday Trivia Answer: Warren Spahn (17), Red Ruffing (15), Bob Lemon (12), Dizzy Trout (11), Carlos Zambrano (10)
Tabletalk with Andrew Edge is a weekly thing but is taking an All-Star Break, just like the Loons catcher is.
And Guillermo goes back to the NBA Finals...Good stuff
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tuesday Trivia Question: Who are the only five pitchers in MLB history to have at least one home run in at least ten straight seasons?
Monday Trivia Answer: Tim Lincecum, Justin Verlander, Johan Santana, and Jake Peavy
There are several people who do a ton of work behind the scenes making things possible for a host of people. Jason Wirtz is among those people. As the Head Clubhouse Manager, Jason's responsibilities include a "whatever else is necessary" clause, which means that he does just about everything. Whether its organzing the equipment, making food for the players, or greeting the team when they return at 5 A.M. from a road game, Jason's there and taking care of business. Jason and his clubhouse managerial peers receive very little credit for a job that requires a ton of work with long, irregular hours.
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In case you missed it, here are some highlights from Lunch with the Loons. Part 1 and Part 2
And, here is our great interview with acclaimed author, Kevin Neary
Also, check out the great form tackle by former Loon, Carlos Santana...
Ok...Caption this picture...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monday Trivia Question: Who are the only four active pitchers to have won their league's strikeout crown multiple times?
This is our last post before Father's Day so I just wanted to wish everyone a very happy Father's Day. My father, Alan, is a very special person to me and not that he reads this, but I just wanted to thank him for everything he does. He's my hero. I love you!
^^^Oh, Big Al...
USC Senior Day.
-How about this for Michigan Wolverines pride? Red Hot Chilipeppers' drummer, Chad Smith, is a huge UM fan. Even though they were playing in hostile Ohio State Buckeye territory, Smith made sure "Hail to the Victors" existed within the performance...
-I always find it very interesting how players spend their divided time with the Stanley Cup. Kings Captain, Dustin Brown, let his kids join in on the fun
-This is a very interesting article, polling MLB players on a variety of promopts, including most hated and least respected manager among others
Jim Rome has a history of controversial interviews because he will ask A) the tough question or B) the dumb question. Which of those two options led to the following interaction between he and NBA Commissioner, David Stern?
...For the record, I have a ton of respect for David Stern and I think he does a great job, but his comment of "Are you done beating your wife, yet?" towards Rome, who has no history of such activity, was inappropriate.
If you haven't seen this, I think its hilarious...No introduction needed, just watch
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weekend Trivia Question: Maria Sharapova recently became the 10th women to complete the "Career Grand Slam." Who is the only woman to have won the "Career Grand Slam" and an Olympic Gold medal?
It's getting CRAZY! We enter the Elite 8 in Loons Trivia with a #1 v. #9 matchup as top-seeded Jason West squares off against Kevin Taylor. It's a classic down-to-the-wire battle for the right to go to the Final Four. CHECK IT OUT!
Elite 8. Jason West vs. Kevin Taylor. Round 1
Elite 8. Jason West vs. Kevin Taylor. Round 2
Elite 8. Jason West vs. Kevin Taylor. Round 3
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thursday Trivia Question: Which third generation former NHL player is the grandson of the leading scorer from the 1941-1942 NHL season? Wednesday Trivia Answer: Toni Kukoc
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wednesday Trivia Question: Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen played against which recently drafted Chicago Bull in the 1992 Olympics?
Tuesday Trivia Answer: "Thunder" Dan Majerle, playing 59 minutes without committing a foul
This year's Loons team is full of great people from top to bottom. Without question, Andrew Edge is the funniest guy on the air and he has tentatively agreed to do a weekly podcast. Either way, we will 100% keep up Tuesday Tabletalk, with or without him. Maybe we have someone join both of us, too, but this week, its Andrew unleashed.
We talk the lack of an Alabama presence in the NBA, how to approach a girl at a gym, and that's just the beginning. Andrew also unveils his Top 5...Things He Wants To Do By the End of Summer
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ESPN's Beckley Mason ?tells us the keys to the NBA Finals and what he thinks will happen.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sandman Says (11-1)...Heat in 6. It's Heat in 6 or Thunder in 7. I think the Heat go up 3-2 and its a matter of whether Lebron and co. can close out that first opportunity. I think Miami's defense is the key because I think turnovers will be the deciding factor. Too often, people blame turnovers on the offense, rather than award the defense credit. Miami is freakishly athletic and can keep up with Oklahoma City athletically. The Thunder aren't used to this and I think this gets them out of rhythm and leads to turnovers. Turnovers allow the Heat to play more in transition. The more in transition they can play, the less they have to play in the halfcourt and the more the can use their transition to provide momentum to their halfcourt. The less they have to play in the halfcourt, the less they expose their halfcourt. Miami does not have nearly as strong of a halfcourt offense as OKC. The more the Heat play in the halfcourt, the more they expose themselves. That's my take...I got the Kings right before the playoffs...I predicted the Heat-Thunder preseason...Let's see if I get the ultimate prediction right on the hardwood like I did on the ice.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Miami Heat Post-Game 7 Dance Party
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tuesday Trivia Question: Who has the NBA record for most minutes played in a game without committing a foul?
Chris Lones is officially the Assistant GM of Production & Entertainment. To me, he's the Assistant GM of Everything Fun. He's in charge of all in-game entertainment, from the video board to the music to helping direct the mascots. More than that, though, Chris has become one of my close friends and a big reason why my first true big move was much easier than expected. He's an awesome guy. Get to know him a bit...
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Ok so I’ve made it very clear that I’m a fan of food. What does that mean? Everyone likes food, Jared. Ya, I know, but when you are always the one asking about what type of food this ballpark has or what restaurants that city has, you eventually realize you might like food more than most. I appreciate a great meal. Recently, I’ve begun cooking myself, crafting out various tasty meals and some experiments that may have gone awry. (If you have any recipes, email me jsandler@espn1009.com and I’ll even mention it on air!).
One thing I love about working here is the FOOD. Director of Food and Beverage Jenny Coleman and Executive Chef Andrea Noonan do an outstanding job. Together, with the help of their wonderful staff, they offer an incredibly diverse and delicious menu ranging from your standard ballpark fare like a dog and a coke—though, much tastier than your standard ballpark dog—to lobster mac n cheese and chili rellenos, among other things.
We are debuting the first installment of “What’s Cookin?” which will highlight the various food options in creative ways while also highlighting the people that make it possible.
One of my favorites is off the Intentional Wok cart, bringing Asian culture to Midland with versatile stir fry options. As I’ve recently taken up cooking as a hobby, I think differently when considering food. How is it made? What steps do you take? How long is the process? So, I decided to ask Jenny and Andrea to explain…
9:00AM—Fresh produce and meat arrives on loading docks (On an average seven-game homestand, the Loons will deal with 40-80 pounds of chicken and beef, among other meats.)
9:45AM—The meat and produce is cleaned and sliced:
11:45AM—Homemade sauce-making begins: Before anything gets made, Chef Andrea likes to mise en place, pronounced mees-en-plahs, French for “in its place,” or, getting everything together, like ingredients. Andrea gathers the ingredient s, measures, and begins to prepare. The meats, produce, and sauces are refrigerated so that they remain fresh, daily.
5:00PM—It’s time to prepare the Jasmine rice, an important element of the stir fry.
6:00PM—Gates open and its showtime. As Andrea put it, “From that point on, its all on our cart chefs to prepare the stir fry.” From someone whose indulged several times, I’ll tell you they do an outstanding job.
When all is said and done, the stir fry presents you with an entrée, which is entirely gluten-free, as well as a spring roll and a fortune cookie as a side item. The entrée is incredibly versatile providing the customer with lots of options.
Meat: Chicken , beef, or soy chicken, for those that prefer a vegetarian-friendly alternative. You can also choose to combo you meats.
Veggies: Carrots, broccoli, onion, pea pods, green pepper, pineapple, water chestnuts, baby corn, and mushrooms.
Sauce: Classic, Mongolian, and sweet & sour…ALL HOMEMADE!
Now, let’s get to know the people in charge.
Director of Food & Beverage, Jenny Coleman, went to college with an emphasis on computer sciences. Weeeeeeeeeeell, let’s just say that a lot of people are happy she decided that wasn’t for her. She saw a commercial advertising an opportunity at a culinary school and bam, she began paving her way to Midland.
Executive Chef, Andrea Noonan, knew she wanted to become a chef since she was little. She enjoyed cooking with her mom, whom she describes as “Your classic, amazing home cook.” She enjoyed the idea of providing hospitality to others through their enjoyment of food.
Let’s investigate some of their favorites…
…Thing to Make At Home
JC: Any type of soup
AN: Lasagna
…Entree to Eat At Dow Diamond
JC: Philly Cheesesteak
AN: Philly Cheeseteak
…Side Item to Eat At Dow Diamond
JC: Mac N Cheese
AN: Funnel Cake
…Local Restaurant
JC: Hello, Sushi (Saginaw)
AN: El Vira’s (Midland)
…Restaurant in the World
JC: Planet Sushi (Miami)…though she insists she isn’t a sushi fanatic
AN: Potaufeu (a French cuisine)
Jenny and Chef Andrea, you all have made me and my stomach very happy!
I've always found the boxing staredown somewhat comical. Maybe I'm wrong, but it seems so artificial. I'm not suggesting once the match starts they don't utterly dismay their opponent--heck, I'm sure they have strong negative feelings toward them at all times--but the overly angry staredown just doesn't do it for me. You know, the chin raised slightly, but not too step so as to mistake toughness for stretching your neck; nose scrunched just a bit but not too much to confuse anger for inhaling a bad smell; and eyes squinting but not with too much intent to confuse focus on ass-kicking for wading off the bright lights.
That's why I find this picture so great. On Pac-man's part, its not fake at all. It's his way or portraying natural confidence. He's smiling because he knows that he's about to knock this guy all over the mat.
...And, sure enough, he did...But, for whatever reason, the judges didn't see it that way. Rematch. November 10.
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If you're looking for a great place to get away and play golf on one of the most beautiful courses in the country, check out Forest Dunes and be sure to check out our conversation with Don Helinski, their Director of Communications.
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Also, check out our conversation for recently draftedMike Saunders, a pitcher who was selected by the Cincinatti Reds in the 24th Round.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monday Trivia Question: Who was the first pitcher to win the Cy Young Award with fewer than 20 wins?
Weekend Trivia Answer: Doc Gooden, Jim Palmer, and Johan Santana
As we head into the weekend, we provide you with some humor, force you to read my rambling, and introduce a new feature from our very own, Jake Riepma. But, first, watch a quick and narrow video of Tuesday's Swing with the Loons. If nothing else, watch the part of the video in which we join the hilarious Andrew Edge for a few minutes on the cart.
Welcome ladies and gents’ to the first edition of Local Flavor Served up by yours truly, Jake Riepma. My vision for “Local Flavor” is to educate you all just a little bit more about our wonderful city of Midland and reveal some interesting facts/stories/memories and pretty much anything I’ve come across in my 19 years of growing up in Midland. With that said, I hope you enjoy this taste of local flavor.
Did you know that the Northwood Timberwolves, (the university located in Midland for those of you that don’t work for the school or aren’t one of our 11 fans) weren’t always known as the Timberwolves? Back in 1994 the school switched its mascot from the “Northmen/Northwomen” to the Timberwolves. That’s right folks, prior to the switch, Northwood was known as the Northwood Northmen or Northwood Northwomen depending on whether or not the team was made of men or women. I’ve been around sports my whole life and consider myself an avid sports fan, and with brutal honesty I can say I don’t think I’ve ever heard of a worst nickname or school mascot in the history of the world than the Northwood Northmen. That’s just plain awful, what’s a Northmen? I’d say switching the name to the Timberwolves was a wise decision by the school. However, the severity of the terribleness of the nickname did get me thinking and left me with the question, has there ever been a worse nickname in sports than the Northwood Northmen? I did some research, and my findings were quite shocking and surprisingly enough, I found some nicknames and mascots that I do believe are even worse than our very own Northwood Northmen. Let’s check it out…
These are in no particular order, I’m leaving it up to you guys to tell me what you think is the worst of the worst.
Webster University Gorlocks – This NCAA Division III university located in St. Louis Missouri is proud of its “uniqueness” when itcomes to their mythical mascot. This comes straight from the school’s athletic website: “The Gorlok is Webster University's school mascot. It is a mythical creature designed in part by Webster students and staff through a school contest. It is reported to have the paws of a speeding cheetah, the horns of a fierce buffalo and the face of a dependable Saint Bernard. The myth of the Gorlok embodies the highest standards of speed, agility and stamina in an atmosphere of fairness and good conduct." – websterathletics.com
UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs – Also a member of NCAA Division III, the UC Santa Cruz Banana Slugs are proud of their mascot and originality. The Banana Slug, a bright yellow, slimy, shell-less mollusk commonly found on the redwood forest floor, has been the school’s mascot since 1986 and was the result of a movement in which the students at UC Santa Cruz wanted to embrace such a lowly creature in response to the fierce athletic competition they were up against at most universities - www.ucsc.edu/about/mascot.html. As for me, I actually kind of like the originality that goes along with the Banana Slugs, and at least it’s a real thing, unlike the Gorlocks and Northmen.
Presbyterian College Blue Hose – A member of the NCAA Division I conference, The Big South, Presbyterian College competes at a very high level in athletics and has even sent a number of football players to the NFL (http://www.gobluehose.com), but Blue Hose, Come on! I realize the inspiration comes from the movie Braveheart, and a Blue Hose is a fierce Scottish Warrior, but it still sounds ridiculous! There has to come a point when in choosing a nickname for a school the “ring” of the nickname or how it sounds overwrites the meaning behind it. Scottsdale Community College Fighting Artichokes – Scottsdale Community College competes in the National Junior College Athletic Association so the ridiculous nickname is a bit more understandable, but artichokes?! This is just too much. Banana Slugs = funny and original, Fighting Artichokes = pretty dang stupid.
St. Louis College of Pharmacy Eutectic – If you’re like me, you don’t have a lot of experience in the pharmaceutical field and therefore have no idea what in the world what the word “Eutectic” means. Never fear, with the power of the internet, I found that Eutectic “describes the scientific process of two solids being combined to form a liquid. A common term in pharmacy” That from the school’s athletic website in an effort to explain the meaning for this horrendous excuse of a nickname. Furthermore in an effort to justify the reasoning behind the name, the school had this to say, “It is the perfect metaphor for STLCOP's intercollegiate athletic program – combining athletics and a demanding academic program.” I’m not sure what’s worse, the actual name or the explanation. Regardless, I have to say this one might take the cake for me as the worst of the worst.
There you have it folks, my worst nicknames in college sports. Keep in mind I only included nicknames of schools that compete in some kind of collegiate athletics, whether that be through the NCAA, NJCAA, or NAIA. There are even more ridiculous names from a number of professional organizations that did not meet the requirements for this list. Let me know what you think, if you agree or disagree, or if you know of any that should have been included!
Keep it real folks, and be thankful the university in Midland no longer refers to themselves as the Northmen! Go Timberwolves, and stay tuned for more local flavor in the future
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This was a great week. This week--or, the week of the MLB Draft--has been a special week for me since my Senior year of high school. But, I was never drafted.
I'm not different from most sports fans. My fascination began with a dream of playing one--or several--sports professionally. Despite coming from a very athletic family, I didn't realize that initial dream. I'm okay with it, though, because now I'm chasing another.
But, as I pursue a different road, not everyone turned at the intersection. Between friends from Dallas, four years at USC a part of the baseball and general athletics family, several of my friends and former teammates continue to chase their athletic dreams. My favorite athletes are Ken Griffey Jr., Dirk Nowitzki, Michael Young, Steve Nash, Aaron Rodgers, Mike Modano, Ian Kinsler and they are also Sam Acho, Tom Milone, Clayton Kershaw, Grant Green, Ricky Oropesa, Hunter Jumper, Chad Smith, and many others.
Even though I love every draft as it represents another step in these people's lives, this week is special because most of my athletic friends are through baseball, I'll sit by a computer and watch, listen, or watch and listen to every round, waiting to hear or read the name of a close friend, a 'when we were younger' friend, or a familiar name. These men earned the opportunity to continue to chase their dream. And witnessing another step in that journey, to me, is special.
I follow my friends and support them religiously. And, you can ask my friends that don't play sports--a list that greatly outnumbers my friends who do play sports--and they'll tell you the same. I think a part of my passion for my friends and family is a product of my passion for sports and for being a fan. My fandom permeates beyond the boundaries of sports and crosses over into everyday life. While these friends might not be my favorite athletes, they are my favorite junior finance analysts, english teachers, lawyers, doctors, or insert title.
In some way, I live through my friends. But not because I'm not happy living through me, but because I love following their journeys and their inevitable successes.
As I geared up for this year's draft, I spent a few hours on the phone with a buddy of mine who barely even played high school sports, hearing about his new job and his new post-college life. I hung up and got into bed around 1:30AM and did so with a smile, excited to hear how well my friend was doing.
I realized I'm a fan. Not just a sports fan. But a people fan.
...Now if only I could find my favorite female....
Phillies manager, Charlie Manuel, reads some of his players' tweets...
Is this because Lousivlle students and athletes aren't sure where to aim? Or does peeing on the Kentucky logo make up for the Final Four matchup from March?
Ants in my pants is actually more than just a saying for Cowboys running back, Lawrence Vickers
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weekend Trivia Question: Who was the first pitcher to win the Cy Young Award with fewer than 20 wins?
Thursday Trivia Answer: Doc Gooden, Jim Palmer, and Johan Santana
We are near the completion of the Sweet 16. Devin Shines' victory over Matt Laney is airing in kazakhstan only, but we did win the rights to air Jarret Martin versus O'Koyea Dickson. Enjoy...
O'Koyea Dickson vs. Jarret Martin Round 1
O'Koyea Dickson vs. Jarret Martin Round 2
O'Koyea Dickson vs. Jarret Martin Round 3
Soooo....Below is the updated bracket. Be sure to check back next Thursday for the beginning of our Elite 8 Episodes.
Check out Part 2 of our interview with Trevor Simpson about the upcoming Euro Championships
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thursday Trivia Question: Who are the only pitcher's to throw a no-hitter after missing the following previous year due to injury?
Wednesday Trivia Answer: 1973 Atlanta Braves: Davey Johnson (43), Darrell Evans (41), and Hank Aaron (40)
Chips & Dip XII:Chi Chi Chips, Cheese, and Salsa. Last week we tag-teamed against intern, Jeremy. Now, intern Andrew and Brock join in on the shenanigans.
In case you missed last night's interviews on SportsNight, check them out.
Trevor Simpson, Part 1: With an international presence and expertise in the soccer/futbol world, Trevor discusses the upcoming European Championships. Beckley Mason, ESPN
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wednesday Trivia Question: Which team was the first to feature 3 players with 40+ HR in a season in their lineup and who were the players?
Tuesday Trivia Answer: Max Scherzer/Justin Verlander, Dan Haren/Jered Weaver, Erik Bedard/A.J. Burnett, Cole Hamels/Cliff Lee/Roy Halladay
Mike Thomas is a huge baseball fan. He grew up in Baltimore rooting for Cal Ripken Jr. and witnessing his record breaking career. On top of that, he worked for Cal at the Ripken Baseball Academy. Plus, he's my trivia buddy on the Loons. I sat down, talking with him about the season, about his experiences as an Orioles fan as well as working for Cal and the Ripken family, and he issues his Top 5 Favorite Chain Restaurants.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tuesday Trivia Question: Who are the four sets of active teammates that have achieved an outing of 14+ strikeouts in a start at some point in their career?
Monday Trivia Answer: Paul Konerko, David Ortiz, Chipper Jones, and Todd Helton
Growing up in Dallas, I was a huge Dallas Stars fan. So, naturally, I don't really like the Red Wings all that much...or, to be blunt, I don't like the Red Wings one bit. But, like I do the Yankees, I respect them. And I always respected and loved watching Niklas Lidstrom. In my opinion, he's the best defenseman of his generation. Without question. Below is some audio from his retirement press conference.
Niklas Lidstrom addresses the fans and then Lidstrom, Wings owner, Mike Illitch, as well as GM Ken Daniels, answer questions.
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I'm not a professional baseball player. Was I an athlete back in the day? Ya. Can I kind of meet some of these athletes half-way in relating with certain aspects of their world? Ya, especially with an athletic background that extended to college. But do I claim to understand everything about what it's like to be in their shoes? No. Not at all.
I do relate very well to one player, though: Devin Shines. Watching D-Shines this season, its clear he is the type of teammate everyone loves because of his commitment to the game and to the team, as well as his high baseball IQ, and his penchant to make a difference with everything he does. In my dreams, that was me. But, one thing we have in common for sure is that we are both a coach's son (Devin's dad, Razor, is the team's hitting coach).
Being a coach's son means a lot of things...some good, some bad. Among the bad are the people who are convinced from the start--from the time they notice the connection between player and coach--that that player is here because of his last name. They forget every positive contribution and are quick to say "See, I told you so" the minute something goes awry.
I'm going to leave out names, but earlier this season I overhead a non-Loons/ESPN 100.9FM media member going over the roster with a colleague. When he got to Devin's name, he said: "Ah, he's Razor's son...probably just here because of his dad. He's not a player." I ignored the comment. I had maybe seen Devin play one game at that point. I was new to the area. I hadn't officially met either of the two in the discussion. But, I'd like to believe if I heard that again--now--I'd come to D's defense immediately. "He's not a player" couldn't be farther from the truth. He's in an incredibly crowded outfield, but he belongs. He can play. He's the first one at the field every day. Other than him being a Heat fan, I can't say a bad thing about him. Get to know him, a bit...
Inside the Dugout: Devin Shines
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monday Trivia Question: Who are the only four active players to have 300+ HR for their current team?
Weekend Trivia Answer: Randy Johnson, Pedro Martinez, and Javier Vazquez
Sports Illustrated polled 124 NBA players, asking them who their favorite NBA broadcaster is. I think you have to separate analysts versus play-by-play voices. All that aside, I love Jeff Van Gundy's analysis. Whether or not I always agree, I think his straight-forward approach, mixed with his humor, is an awesome combination. He check in at #2 on the list.George Blaha makes the list as well...
I make no bones about my sports team loyalties. Off-air, I admittedly have blinders on when discussing players on those teams. I'm sure so many people can't stand DeShawn Stevenson--the guy is a clown--but he helped the Mavericks win an NBA Championship so I'll stand by him. So while some people might ridicule him for having an ATM machine in his own house, I'll just sit back and laugh. I just want to know A) what the surcharge is B) what's the withdrawal limit and C) who are the guests of his that use it?
It's been quite the week for Reds SS, Todd Frazier. First he hits a "Look, Ma! No hands!" home run. The encore? He saves someone's life. It's pretty cool following Frazier because he is my all-time favorite player from the Little League World Series. I remember watching the Toms River, NJ squad when I was six and seven.
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I have been a Big Brother in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program since 2007. Its a cause that means a lot to me. The BB/BS Heart of Michigan is having a golf tournament this Monday with an online auction full of great items. Go to their website: www.bbbsheartofmi.org and check out our chat with their Executive Director, Susan Putnam
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weekend Trivia Question: Jamie Moyer has allowed a HR in a ML-record 43 different ballparks. Three others are T2nd having allowed a HR in 41 different parks. Who are they?
Thursday Trivia Answer: Rocky Colavito vs. the Tigers in 1968. In a doubleheader on August 25, he picked a win in the first game and then homered in the second.
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