Tracy’s Random Thoughts: The End of the Year Edition

Ah, Fall. My favorite season. New shows, cooler temps, leaves changing, the scenery. Sadly, Fall is gone that quick and we are heading to Winter. Joy.  Here are my Final Thoughts of this year:

1. The Midterm Elections and Obama

The Republicans had a good election, while the Democrats took a beating in the House, but barely controlling the Senate.  The main reason the Republicans had a good year is one word: jobs. The Democrats didn’t offer jobs, so the people want the Republicans to do a better job.  It will likely be a lame-duck Congress might get new jobs, but with new technologies and new reasoning, do the unemployed have not the skill set, but the capacity to learn something new?  That’s the biggest question if the unemployed rate goes down. From what I know, it doesn’t look like the numbers will change.

As for Obama, this doesn’t hurt him in the long run since he’s the real grown up in Washington, but he is getting hit from both the left for not being progressive, and from the right for not being on the right.  As a liberal, I wish Obama should be more progressive in action, but in politics, he knows what he is doing.  The country is still in the right of center if you like it or not. However, what Obama is trying is to move the country to still be in the center where government plays a role, as well as people having some freedom to their business. The problem Obama has is both sides want to have a power play. It’s the lust of power that is screwing Obama.

In the next elections in 2012, I dare voters to vote of who is the best person in the job for your district, state, and national. Don’t rely on what the party tells you, it worked for Lisa Murkowski.

2. Wikileaks

I went to the Brazen Careerist event a month ago and I had a conversation with someone who works for the government who wants them to establish social media in their department.  We both agree an open government should be the future. That was one month ago. Now, I’m skeptical.

Julian Assange, who looks like more and more like Bill Maher here:

has caused havoc around the world with government document leaks, which has damage some of the U.S. Diplomatic relations, although Hillary Clinton has done a remarkable job of reducing the problems. I find Julian as the Joker to the world: he plays by his rules and loves anarchy. The real issue is the people who are leaking the documents to him. Those people should be fired, thrown off, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.  There’s no question the U.S. has done some questionable actions (i.e. Iraq, Guantanamo Bay), but some of these documents have put relationships, that have been building for a long time, at risk, either internationally or domestically. Sadly, the leaks will continue, but does the government think its ready to be an open and transparent government? In most cases, yes; but in certain situations, not a chance. It’s up to them to limit the leaks in the future.

3. The Message

There was this strong debate on why people put cartoon characters in their Facebook profile pages this past week. The reason behind it was a reminder to fight against child abuse. It was a successful campaign, but there were others who prefer people to donate money and thought the campaign was ridiculous. Here’s the thing: both sides were correct. for the argument of donations, it is great if people donate to get better resources and staff to help out on this cause. However, the important reason why people put cartoon characters is if you got the message. Donations are important, but people donate if they don’t have the time to help out. If you can help out and have the time, then do it. Communication, interaction, and developing relationships are the most important to fight for causes. Both are right, but it up to us on how we fight for our cause and hopefully has a positive result.

4. Cable Networks

Is it me, or is the History Channel, Food Network, TLC, Discovery, A&E, and others are doing the same thing, but on different topics?

5. DC Sports Time

Redskins:
They’re not going to the playoffs this year and this team is a mess with the whole Shanahan-McNabb story and Albert Haynesworth being Albert Haynesworth. The only salvation to save the Redskins? If the NFL doesn’t have the 2011 season because of the lockout. In the upcoming draft, Shanahan would want to have Jake Locker since he is the closest thing to John Elway, patch up the WR, RB and OL core  in the draft. If the lockout continues, the Redskins would want to pick the best available player so Shanny does have a team. it’s not fun to see my Redskins this depress, just be hopeful the offseason goes their way.

Wizards:
Let’s move on…

Capitals:
The season is still young, but I like where the Caps are heading. yes, they’re on a losing streak (even gave up a 3 goal lead to the Toronto Maple Leafs of all teams), but they have time to get a legit 2nd Center at the trading deadline. Remember: it’s important to be the hottest team going in the playoffs (as we learned last year).

Nationals:
That’s right, the most positive news in DC sports come from a baseball team that have been in last place for 5 years straight. People were up in arms about not signing Adam Dunn and gave him to the White Sox. I thought it was going to happen, but I was still disappointed since he was a fan favorite in D.C. I looked at it as Rizzo trying to forget the 2011 season…

Until he signed Jayson Werth for 7 years/$126 million. That not only woke up the small Nats fan base and the Nats organization, it woke up the baseball and sports world. Overall, did the Nats overpaid Werth? Absolutely, but look at the aftermath. After the Werth signing, people are now wondering what the Nats will do next: Are they going to trade Willingham and/or Desmond? Are they going to get a left-handed 1B like Carlos Pena or Adam LaRoche? Can they get Cliff Lee or Carl Pavano? Those questions wouldn’t exist if the Werth deal was done. Rizzo gave the perfect holiday gift for the organization and fans.  By the way, Washington, D.C. is not a small market; it’s a big market doing small market stuff. Now, they’ve grown up.

That is all. Hope you have a nice Ed Stevens Holidays. I’ll write more before the year ends…trust me.

Tracy’s Random Thoughts: The Long Time Edition

Yes, it’s the return of my random thoughts and for a few (and I do mean a few, figuratively) wonder I haven’t done this in long time.  It’s simple, I had business and thought it would take me a few months. Then, it got extended because the whole department left, plus doing insurance for the first time, taxes, and my regular duties as Caps tweeter held me doing this type of stuff.  Finally, here we go:

1. Health Care Reform

Let’s admit this health care reform will be far from perfect and it will take a lot of years to get the right combination.  However, this country does need reform by any means necessary to insure more Americans.  Right now, most people depend on employer plans, which might be good, but it’s not great for the long haul since tenure is on a short-term basis.  The Democrats had a great argument for reform, but they been botching, while the Republicans didn’t have a plan, but did a great job convincing the media and the public to sympathize on their side.  However, Obama turn the whole thing around this week with his speech to plea to get reform done and is bringing the public with him.  Obama’s problem was he was trying to be too friendly and hope both sides agree.  He didn’t know Republicans will always unite on any issue, so he’s making his move and should be.  Now it’s Congress’ turn to make their move.

2. The Independent Voter

I really hate the term “Independent Voter.” Technically, every one of us is an independent voter, it’s just most of us need to join something.  As I learn from news reports and polling, it’s that you a few on the extreme right, a few on the extreme left, and everyone else is in the middle.  Most say we need more parties to break this two-party system.  The problem is most of us don’t know who we’re voting for.  If people want to break the system, then give us a candidate or tell us about yourself.  Also, if you really want to make a difference, then vote and don’t give me an excuse the political system is broken;  you’re the cause of it.

3. The DC Metro

The DC Metro is having a terrible year: derailments, packed trains, accidents, John Catoe resigning, raising prices, etc.  Metro is not getting any luck and in a world where people want to go to public transportation, they are giving reasons not to ride the Metro.  I could give a list of a number of changes Metro should make, but you can look into my past posts and Unsuck DC Metro.  The one thing Metro should be thinking is do advertising everywhere: in tunnels, trains, floors, you name it.  The Metro stations are not the most astute for the artistic type, so why not ask businesses to advertise?  Metro gets the money and businesses get attention.  Also, Metro has a little integrity left, it’s alright to sell out for better service.

4. Geolocation

If 2009 is the year of microblogging, 2010 is the year of the geolocation application.   Sites like Foursquare, Gowalla, and others are hitting mainstream with people telling where they are now.  You understand why its a great idea and I love it.  The problem is some are telling us every location they are going to, which does get annoying and at the same time, scary since people can sense a pattern.  Geolocation is only good if there are special events going on, not an everyday tracking system.  Just saying.

5. Washington DC Sports Update

Caps – Won the Southeast Division, and now trying for the Presidents’ Trophy (best regular season record), although I hear its cursed.  However, there is one trophy the caps desperately want and that’s in June, if the Caps can make it.

Redskins – They’re doing nothing and the  salary budget is 4th lowest.  Guess they’re taking the playbook from Leonsis and McPhee that dump salary now, win after the lockout/strike.  Then again, there is no Ovechkin-like people in the NFL Draft next year.

Wizards – Team stinks, but they’re trying hard.  The main question is can they get superstar free agents coming to DC? That will be difficult.

Nationals – There is actual buzz for the Nats this season since the team moved in 2005.  The team is decent, but won’t likely going to the playoffs, but .500 is a possibility and 70 wins might within reach.  Oh, and The Strasburg.

That is all in the long return of the Random Thoughts.  Just to let you know This Summer, everything changes. More details are ahead.  Now, onto working on my million bracket challenges.

Tracy’s Random Thoughts November 2008 Edition

First, how do you like the new design?  Also, how do you like the new badges I’ve been figuring out for a few weeks?  Site is now simple and easy to follow.  Hope you enjoy, but onto better things: me.

1. The 2008 Presidential Election

Since I’ve discuss the Presidential election at length, there is more of the other stuff that happen other than the result:

• CNN brought out their newest technological innovation…the hologram.  I could go with a Star Wars, Star Trek, or a Mortal Kombat joke.  Everything has been taken.  But if you want innovation from CNN,  it’s here.
• Kind of sad that Jon Stewart was the first person to call the election.  Though  everyone knew when Ohio was called for Obama, it was over.
• This leads to the next few years when Jon Stewart’s contract expires.   The next four are going to be interesting as we have a serious president.  Yes, there are some jokes available, but when network late night is calling for $30-40 million per year, it’s hard to turn that down.  The late night wars get interesting again.
• Note to networks:  Train your analysts how to use the touchboard.  Two years my friends, there’s plenty of time to train.
• Saturday Night Live had a great year during the campaign.  Now, they’re back to sucking without one of their key players in Amy Poehler.
• NBC had the best all-around performance:  Their newscast, their commentators, SNL.  Still, Ben Silverman still has a job because he brought Knight Rider into our lives again.
• Prediction:  FAUX News will still be at top of the cable news networks because the South watches a lot of TV that relate to them.  However, their power has been diminished significantly.
• If you want to know how can an Obama administration is changing, look at today’s events.  Tons of people protesting to say no to Prop 8 in California after voters pass the proposition. Now, people from all sides are joining the effort, either rain or shine, to want equality to all and that’s cool. 
• Somebody didn’t listen to Peter Schiff.  Here comes the Ron Paulites mocking everyone else:
• The loser of the election…Neoconservatives and the newspaper industry.  They are tried their best (depending on your view), but did not get the result they want.
• The winner of the election…Nate Silver of http://www.fivethirtyeight.com.  Somebody is hitting the jackpot.

2. Tony Reali

If you don’t know who Tony Reali is;  he’s “Stat Boy” of Pardon the Interruption and host of Around the Horn.   For the first few years, he meshes great with Tony and Mike.  I also give him credit for bring ATH some respectability, but not that much.   However, he’s kind of rubbing some the wrong way.  My first indication was when I interned at NPR, I saw him a couple of times along Chinatown and he carries a water bottle, but he doesn’t hold it on his hand, he puts it on his back pocket.  I find it gross, but it didn’t give me any indication of future outcomes.  Then, on the last Halloween show on PTI, he never dressed up and everyone else did.  Some are split that wearing that Halloween is a kids holiday.  I can understand that, but his tone seemed obnoxious while saying “I’m an adult.”  Also, Luke Russert wore a Buffalo Bills jersey and all Reali wears is a sports jacket and a muscle shirt?  And he mocks Tony and Mike about their wardrobe allowance?

However, the top indication Reali has change is two words:  [The name that shall be nameless].   It’s odd that [The name that shall be nameless] is winning a lot from Reali hosting.  Doesn’t Reali know he’s reading from cue cards when he makes his “points.”  Then, Dan Levy had an interview with Reali and this was very telling:

Interview with Reali about no name.

Rick Telander doesn’t count because he has the same qualities as [The name that shall be nameless], but he’s more inclusive.  However, if Roger Ebert writes an open letter about [The name that shall be nameless] and you still think he’s good, then you’re Ben Lyons.

There could be many reasons why Reali is like this right now: 

• He’s a newlywed.
• [The name that shall be nameless] paying him off.
• Wants to be the next Michael Phelps (not for the gold, for other stuff).
• He’s jealous of Nate Silver’s success since Nate is now the true “Stat Man.” 

I’ll take the latter.

3.  Pushing Daisies

You know I’m a big fan of Pushing Daisies by doing some live-blogging when the show airs to get 3 or 4 additional viewers.  You all heard the news is ABC told production to stop at Episode 13, and then let’s see how it goes.  I can tell you what’s going to happen;  enjoy the last 8 episodes.   It’s odd that Knight Rider will survive and not this genius show.  Really people?!!!

4.  Holiday Music

Yes, the holidays are coming, but I must tell one of my pet peeves right now:  Playing holiday music before Thanksgiving or Halloween, depending where you live.  I know people are excited for the holidays, but take it one holiday at a time.  Right now, I want commercials and shows that are based on turkeys, the right recipes and if a tofu turkey is delicious.  Worry about the holiday season after the Thanksgiving Day Parade is over.  This year, you can start early since the traditional Thanksgiving football games suck this year.   Then, you can bust the holiday music.  Next time, I’ll bring my holiday music mix.

5.  Cash commercials

What is up with the numerous commercials from Cashpoint and Cash4Gold?  By the way, how you know if it’s a bad commercial:  If someone is driving the car, and waving cash out the window, in front of a camera, it’s called a Beatdown Situation. 

6.  Bacon beats Fries

Personally, Fries kills Bacon in all categories.  Bacon is great in breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Bacon is versatile and  tasty.  You can add as a great condiment as well.  Bacon is a wonderful all-around performer.  However, Fries is a once-in-a-lifetime performer.  Can do all the functions bacon does, but more diverse, versatile, and can handle a variety of dipping sauces.  Also, it doesn’t want to discriminate; it can go skinny or obese.  You can’t stop the Fries.

The state of Colorado did not agree.   The Tracy Maniacs do not agree with the election result in Colorado.

That is all, hope you have a nice Thanksgiving and during these times, you must protect the house.

Election Day

We are one day away of choosing our 44th President of the United States (might be longer depending if all the states are that close, heaven forbid that would never happen again).  This is not a post about who to vote for (If you read my previous posts or on Facebook, you know who I’m going to vote for).

This is for the people who don’t want to vote or can’t vote because their busy.  For the people who are busy, here are a bunch of CEOs who are asking you to vote (Credit: Mark Stelzner):

For the people who don’t want to vote:  don’t make that an excuse.  If you’re cynical about politics, you have the right to be and honestly, that’s how I feel occasionally.  However, if you don’t get out, you lost all credibility.  If you are so mad, then why sit out?  If you’re upset that McCain and Obama are on the ballot, then voice who you want to be President.  It doesn’t have to be a popular choice, but if you believe in someone, then go vote for that person.  

In 2004, I never liked Bush or Kerry or even Ralph Nader.  I cast my vote for Former New Jersey Senator and Knicks player, Bill Bradley because he was intelligent on the issues, would know how to balance a budget, and understands and delegates to his teammates and co-workers.  The downsize was that he has a personality of a toothpick and that was his demise.  If you make Al Gore more personable, then you shouldn’t been elected, but I still stick with him because he shares my viewpoints.

The point here is vote to know where you want the country be heading to.  There are a lot of issues to ponder (not one issue like my friends and family think) and select who can run this country.  If you don’t want to, then you’re not welcome to the adult table.

Tracy’s Random Thoughts October 2008 Edition

Well, this is the first October random thought in two years and there are a lot of things to go through and also I’m tight on budget.  Let’s go:

1.   The Economic Crisis

The number one spot would normally be one month to the elections, but the economic crisis has been a big issue since the stock market took a plunge a few weeks ago.  I’m not a financial guy, but all I know is there were so many factors caused by:

·         Sub-Prime mortgages banks shouldn’t hand out.

·         Liquidity on credit

·         Out of control spending

·         Golden parachutes

·         Excessive loans everywhere.

To me, I think most of the economic crisis is all true that I mention above, but I think behavioral economics play a role as well.  People thought of buying stock and getting houses during the Bush administration thought the surplus would cover it.  However, with war costs almost at a trillion dollars and people believing in false advertising has now caused the economy to drop.  Right now, people do not believe in the current administration and any word Bush says, the market will drop.  Think of it as a roller coaster of emotions and right now, everyone is angry and stocks are on a down slope because of audience reaction.  This indicates the markets and financial structure need an overhaul.  They can’t do anything because they have a lame-duck president and administration that caused this crisis, they have a critical election coming up in three weeks, and when a new president is elected, the person has to start very early.  Of course, the United States can call Paul Krugman now since he is a Nobel Prize Winner in Economics.

2.   The Presidential Election winding down

This leads me to the Presidential elections.  We all know the economy is the number one issue to most of the people.  Obama gets the point.  David Leonhardt points it here; Andrew Sullivan has the copy of his most recent speech in Ohio; and John Talbott has a book called Obamanomics. 

As for McCain:  Here are the crowd reactions about it:  “Terrorist,” “Treason,” “Kill Him!”  It doesn’t mean economics, just trying to put down Obama since McCain’s only answer to the economic crisis is spending freeze, “That One,” “My Friend(s),” and $300 billion mortgage package, which conservatives did not like.  Unfortunately, the negative attacks have given Obama double digit leads in both the national and state polls.  Then last Friday, McCain had to take the microphone off this woman who said Obama was an Arab and he heard enough.

I honestly think this was not McCain’s presidential campaign.  I think he knew he lost the control of the election when Obama made a great speech at the Democratic Convention and he had to top that.  He wanted Joe Lieberman so he can cover both sides of the political aisle.  However, the neoconservatives took over McCain’s campaign and needed the next neocon leader and found one in Sarah Palin.  She has the same demeanor as George W. Bush with a laid back attitude, which would have been great except on this election, it is real policy issues people care about.  If you want to know about this election and their campaigns, one had all the pressure to be a “politician” and play the straight and narrow because of his color, and the other had a possible winning campaign, but sold his soul to the other side for more attention and more voters and it’s costing him.  You already know the picture.

3.   Washington Sports

Redskins – I’m amazed that their 4-2 right now and wins against Arizona, Dallas, and Philly does help on tiebreakers, but they lost to the former winless Rams have second thoughts, but oddly, I knew it was coming, and now they know they have to be focus each game because the division and conference will only get tougher.

Capitals – After that terrible opener against the Atlanta Thrashers, the Caps have won two in a row and looked very strong.  I hope this season will be a Stanley Cup season because the Capitals are now DC’s second favorite team and have the best star in DC in Alex Ovechkin.  By the way, I have the 11-game plan; I already used one last Saturday on the home opener.  Here are the ten games I have and contact me if you’re interested of going:

·         November 8 – New York Rangers

·         November 14 – New Jersey Devils

·         November 28 – Montreal Canadiens

·         January 31, 2009 – Detroit Red Wings

·         February 20 – Colorado Avalanche

·         February 22 – Pittsburgh Penguins

·         February 24 – Philadelphia Flyers

·         March 8 – Pittsburgh Penguins

·         March 27 – Tampa Bay Lighting (Or Melrose’s Mullets)

·         April 3 – Buffalo Sabres

Of course, all these tickets are on the nosebleed sections, but the view is still good.  As I’ve said before, hockey is the best viewing experience of all the sports.

Wizards – Arenas is out, Jamison is hurt, Haywood has a glass wrist.  The Curse of Lez Bullets have hit again.  We’re back to the 80s again.

Nationals – Well, the Nationals have the worst record in the majors and you know that means:

·         Jim Bowden potential firing

·         Sucking up to people to renew their 2009 Season tickets (I’m one of them, but I’m going for the 6-game plan next year and we have the Red Sox at home.  Who wants to join?!).

·         The DC Government can rest on the $3.1 Million office.

·         Stephen Strasburg will be the Nationals number one pick in the 2009 draft, unless the front office really screws this up, which will not shock me.  I heard he’s very good.

D.C. United – There’s no buzz with this team since Freddie Adu was a benchwarmer.  Although they won the MLS Cup in 2004, they can’t win a playoff series.  I’m telling you, it’s the Curse of the Adu (or that Adu has a voodoo doll with pins).

4.   Twitter

This week, I just started up my Twitter profile.  I wanted to see what the rage is all about.  Here are my observations:

·         I can get quick updates on the news.  News alerts are very helpful.

·         It’s the same as the Facebook Status lines.

·         It’s really an enhanced version of the Status line.

I can see why people are enjoying it and its usefulness.  Do I have to describe everything I do?  Here’s what I’m doing:  Doing my blog in shorts, watching Countdown with Keith Olbermann, sad that the Rays are whooping the Sawx, and thinking …. 

Whoops, I’m all out of characters.

5.   Randor Bierd

Something a little special during flu season.  If you are sick or having a bad day, have a picture of Baltimore Orioles relief pitcher Randor Bierd on your screen or a frame picture.  I hear a smile from him cures the sick and releases negative energy of your body.  Here you go:

 

That is all for today.  Just a reminder, I won’t be live-blogging the Pushing Daisies episode because I have other commitments that evening. I will twitter on the last Presidential debate just to be important.  And now, your moment of Zen:  I have none.

Tracy’s Random Thoughts September 2008 Edition

Fall has arrived (well, close to there) and I feel fine.  I’ll stop singing  and I’ll just go:

1. Election 2008 underway

Finally, the race to the White House begins and I have to say these three weeks have been very telling.  The Democratic Convention had their big bounce when the Clintons handoff “their power” to Barack Obama and the Republicans got a big bounce by announcing Sarah Palin as her vice president and the speech of a lifetime [sarcasm]  Everyone had a big bump but McCain was big.

The only reason McCain has this big bump is the neoconservatives were losing the elections this year and McCain sold his soul to the neocons.  In a field of Romney, Huckabee, Lieberman, Giuliani, and others, McCain needed a hail mary and momentarily has the momentum with the pick of Palin.  After the convention and the ten verbatim speeches thereafter, McCain has the lead.  By the way, there is a lot of stuff surrounding McCain-Palin in the news.  I would like to post them, but the bandwidth would destroy this blog.  Here’s the summary of McCain is doing:

For the Obama camp, the campaign is all in shock of the Palin success and her rocket shot as the face of politics.  They are panicking because they’re down in the polls and they think they are reliving 2004 again.  I hope they wait out the controversies and focus on the issues.  Of course, the 24/7 media news cycle will determine that.  This is a golden time for Obama to go to his weaknesses and get the small-town vote and discuss in detail his economic plan.  Also, I think Obama is itching for the debates to come by.  However, do you find it odd that the first debate is on a Friday?

One final thing, if Obama wins the Presidential election and the Democrats gets more seats, I want to see the DNC attract the real conservatives in the next two years and make the Democratic Party the party of ideas.  It is not about liberal versus conservatives, it’s now ideas versus ideology and the Republicans prefer the latter.  This is a test for Howard Dean to attract as many people as he wants in his party and could be the dominating party for a long time.  It will never happen, but this move will be bold and politics will be taken seriously since last 8 years was a toy of this current administration.  Oh well.  By the way, Sarah is losing points of not going to the thick-rimmed glasses.  She is going with no rims.  Not a good move.

2. Weather

Since my last random thought, Gustav, Hanna, and Ike invaded America and destroy houses (in my case, the tile of my roof go ripped).  It’s tragic what’s going in the gulf and I’ll send my condolences to the families in Louisiana and Texas.  There are a bunch of networks with their weather people braving through the winds and debris, but the masters of the weather report is always and will be The Weather Channel.  The reports of Jim Cantore, the weather analysis, the post facelift of Alexandra Steele, and local weather and traffic.  Okay, those are lies.  The only reason to watch the Weather Channel is Stephanie Abrams and her tight henleys.  That’s it, that’s the list.

3. Fall Entertainment Preview

Movies - The Dark Knight is very hard to top, but I’m actually interested in The Wrestler starring Mickey Rourke.  What the story is a Ric Flair type wrestler (Mickey Rourke) heading into his twilight years and he knows the end of his wrestling career is coming up.  However, his real persona is a mess with a daughter she doesn’t know and hanging in strip clubs.  If you know the true wrestling scene, this could be a must watch and from the reviews, it looks very strong.  I was a big wrestling fan back them and still am a little to this day, and this movie could give a new appreciation to the wrestling business, not WWE particularly.

Music – Metallica, Black Stone Cherry, Kid Rock?!  Apparently, rock is making a comeback again.  Well, not really.  I think the music is too diverse to keep everyone sticking. 

TV – I don’t know any new television show that intrigues me this season.  For me, I’m still waiting for season 2 of Pushing Daisies and still waiting for the DVD releases of Ed and The Knights of Prosperity.

4. Tom Brady

It’s sad that Tom Brady is out for the season with torn knee ligaments and sad for me because he was in one of my fantasy leagues.  The point is twofold: For the fans, stop making t-shirts that Tom Brady has everything and worship Bernard Pollard of ripping his knee.  That’s really sad. 

For the media; this is not the end of the world.  You still have Peyton Manning and you begged Brett Favre to come back.  Football will survive not by superstars in your league.  Your league survives in betting and fantasy football.  The league wants us to believe we care about these stars, but if money is involved in football for the fans, you take it.

That is all and two things I want to say.

1. I’ll make the big announcement this week, I promise.
2. Come next week to celebrate the silver anniversary of me.  Yes, it’s the one week I’ll stroke my ego like no other.  And, there is no party, just a bunch of thanks and business (hint).

 

Tracy’s Random Thoughts August 2008 Edition

It seems weird that it was in the low 80s last week.  I would never expect it in the DC area this time of year.  Must be… eh never mind, it’s going to be hot next year.  Here we go:

1. The Race to the White House

We’re a couple of weeks away until the start of the conventions, and guess what propped up?  The Russian-Georgia conflict.  This Russian movement going into Georgia territory, plus the oil pipeline, plus U.S. interests equals potential all out war.  John McCain jumped the gun stating that we should go help Georgia, although is it really our best interest to help a country or the resources in the country?  Obama would like to discuss this, but he had airline problems during his flight.  I like Andrew Sullivan’s argument that McCain is discussing Georgia from his heart since he is friends with the Georgia president.  However, for the best for the United States, do we need another fight in addition to Iraq and Afghanistan or do we need somebody to make peace with the other countries.  I would prefer the latter, but oil and money do mix and the result is dangerous.

2. The Beijing Olympics

I was wary about the Beijing Olympics being successful, ratings-wise, for the United States because of the time difference.  However, the $300 million opening ceremonies (Really, $300 million to the opening ceremonies and not putting the money on the victims for the earthquakes a couple of months ago?) were spectacular and with NBC’s assistance, the main events were on primetime, plus the intrigue of China being the new Russia, has giving a boost in the ratings. 

The main reason for the boost is Michael Phelps.  Let me say this; what Michael Phelps is doing is awesome and love that he could (or will) have eight gold medals in a single Olympics and that’s great.  We can say he’s the greatest Olympian of all-time, but from a few accounts, including Marc Sterne, who has met Phelps in a couple of events, he is an elitist and pompous in person.  He does enjoy the spotlight a lot and really loves the attention from his 12,000 calorie diet to Cris Collinsworth smothering her mother to last night’s practice area where five people were rubbing Phelps is body and it look like gelatin.  It’s great he’ll be ranked up there with the other Olympic legends, but I’m torn about him and I’m serious about this, he could be the next Bruce Jenner, life-wise.  If you don’t know what I’m talking about, look to Jenner’s wikipedia page and here’s Bruce through the years:

That’s going to be Michael Phelps soon.

3. Jay Leno

I saw this on Entertainment Weekly about Jay Leno is now the most wanted man in TV.  I’m sorry, how did Jay Leno became the most wanted man?  Yes, his show still is tops in late-night, but the numbers are far fewer than the person he replaced, Johnny Carson, and he’s not the best or even good host of a late night talk show.  His “legendary” monologues are probably the most overrated thing in all of television.  It’s just a setup up and a cheesy joke about the news, which we know the joke will be.  All these years, my reasoning why Jay has these ratings because people in their 40s and 50s still remember the Tonight Show as must see tv and still is because of the title.  What had helped the past several years is David Letterman is phoning the first 30 minutes, which is the most critical of the show to attract.  Guests have become obsolete, unless you’re Oprah or Julia Roberts.  Now, people are saying Leno’s show is vibrant because he has one year left with NBC and he is going all out by attacking NBC and trying edgier comedy.  Newsflash…everyone has jokingly attacked NBC for a long time and I wonder where Leno got that act?  So, if you’re sad that Leno will be out of late night and might go to another station, don’t be. 

To summarize this, if you want the job, suck up to the company.  If the company dumped you, suck up to another company and you will be filthy rich.

4. The Tony Kornheiser Show

It was news last week that Bonneville will expand the stations for their popular news stations WTOP to all their powerful stations, thus ending 3WT radio.  What this means is Tony Kornheiser does not have a home on the radio dial when he comes back in January.  For the people who read this (yes, I have more readers in Raleigh than in DC, weird) Mr. Tony likes a local radio show, so a Sirius/XM or a national ESPN Radio show is out.  To me, here are his options:

1. ESPN980 (local)- This would be the most logical choice for him since he would be reunited with Andy Polley and is really the only sports station in town, which everyone  thinks he’s known for.  But the station is owned by Dan Snyder, which could cause some conflict since Snyder wants a Redskins-centric show, with the other sports surrounding him and he wants to discuss other subjects like the Animal Revolution.   This is the best bet he’ll end up, unless something pops up.
2. 106.7 WJFK - His show would fit nicely between the Junkies and Big O and Dukes and would reduce the 10-hour manfest.  Problem:  the studios are in Fairfax, Virginia, he lives in DC;  you need to build an another studio for him.  Not going to happen.
3. 94.7 – He likes classic rock, but would his format bring an audience to that station?  I doubt it.
4. BIG 100.3 – Old Guy Radio fits into this bill and his show feels like your grandpa is talking to you.  Might be a station to look at, but Clear Channel has a lot of changes in store in the DC market and it would be called selling stations to the highest bidder.
5. Live Webcast/Podcast on Washingtonpost.com – No one has talked about this, but I think this is the decision he should think about.  People are going to webcasts and blogs now.  In the latest ratings, his show declined because the audience knew he would leave for Monday Night Football.  He needs to take the Roger Ebert route and have his own section on Washingtonpost.com and do a live webcast.  The risk is ad money in a webcast/podcast is still far behind money at a radio station and you need one big advertiser or many small advertisers to cover costs.  Now, I mentioned Washingtonpost.com because they want to be a multimedia entity and they have done a decent job (except the newspapers sales are declining and the radio station that flopped).  They have coverage for MSNBC and CNN, and have Cheeseboy’s Sports Blog (or Bog for Cheeseboy fans), but a web show just for Mr. Tony and friends to rip would not be good for the audience and Mr. Tony, but the company to regain traction in the multimedia industry.  It also helps Mr. Tony has a big following on the podcasts and could potentially bring national ads.  Of course, Mr. Tony will say he a radio guy and stick to status quo, but he should look into this.
6. (Bonus) WAMU- I can tell you it will never happen but think about it, it’s a wonderful fit.  During pledge drives, he can ask people donate money to his show.  Of course, what I meant donating to his show, I meant more Johnnie Walker Blue, paying off tuition for his children, and WAMU Membership card for discounts in restaurants.  Of course, he’ll say something bad about management and will blow a gasket, which is un-public radio like [rolling eyes].

5. You can be a superhero in real life

Iron Man

Invisibility Cloak

Juicing to the nth degree

And finally (ok, not a superpower or hero, but an excuse to have that picture)

Great, with all these superpowers and gadgets, how are we going to take down Rupert Murdoch?

That is all.  Next month will be the Silver Anniversary of Me.  Send your requests on the comments section to tell what was your greatest moment with me.  On second thought…don’t.  I almost sound like a Sportscenter pitchman.  Must escape.

Tracy’s Random Thoughts July 2008 Edition

It’s summer and I’m amazed it hasn’t been that humid in DC.  Of course that will change in the next couple of days.  I wish I was in Chicago or Seattle.  Anyway, on we go:

1. Election 2008

I’m not going to get into it now since everyone wants to makes this news after one single soundbite and another, and you know how it goes.  Talk to me about it during the conventions.

2.  The Washington Nationals

Wow, this is a mess.  First, the team is not all that great to start with.  There is no offense on this team and most of the stars are on the DL.

Second, the owners want the city to pay $3.5 million, plus $150K per day of “not completing the stadium.”  By that, the owners mean the offices were not completed.  Ok, if they sound like that, the Lerners leap frog Dan Snyder as the most hated owner(s) in DC, and that’s pretty hard to do.  By the way Washington fans, the Taters start training camp next week.

Finally, MLB is investigating the front office of the Nationals from improper contracts among Latin players.  I knew Jim Bowden would be involve in this, but I’m shocked by Jose Rijo’s involvement, since he is a Dominican, but if you stuck around a guy who is been quoted saying “I want to say a prayer to [a player's] butt,” I’m not shock at all.  I won’t be shock if Bowden is out of a job and possibly Brian Cashman (DC product) be the GM since he is in hot water with George Jr. (Hank Steinbrenner) since the Yankees are in 3rd place right now.

This is not a great start for a team that opened a stadium this year and had some hopes for this year.  At least they were first place for 6 days.

3. Network Programming

This has been disturbing me for awhile, but what is with some of the networks showing movies out of the range?  For example, the Cartoon Network was showing Jurassic Park 3 and School of Rock, and Fuse (a music network) was showing some random music that doesn’t associate to music, and CMT showing something not related to country? 

This has been my worry, but there is too much media control among television networks, hence the variety of different shows in niche networks.  I can’t decide which is which anymore.  No wonder people are going to the internet to find what they are looking for. 

4.  Cricket

I don’t what’s wrong with me, but I have started listening to cricket matches because my Tony Kornheiser friends have this obsession with cricket.  I even have a newsletter for cricket on my Blackberry.  If you think cricket is boring, well, yes for the general audience.  However, just think cricket as golf, just add 1-2 days.  Cricket is only for the fanatics, but try to hear the audio commentary from the BBC.  They make the sport enjoyable.  Just think of the team of David Feherty and Gary McCord.  By the way, the International Cricket Council (ICC) are putting $300 million to make cricket a mainstream sport in the U.S.  Good luck, it will never happen.

5. There’s nothing to do in July

I just want to say that because we’re now entering the dog days of summer.  Not my favorite times.

Ok, that is all and within a month, I will make that big announcement soon, although some had a sneak peek, and I’ll shall kill them. 

 

Tracy’s Random Thoughts June 2008 Edition

Usually, I hate summer and June begins it.  This year might be the exception.  On we go:

1. Tim Russert

Yesterday was a big shock that Tim Russert passed away yesterday at 58 and at his peak since this election was going to be special.  It’s unfair that he died during his circumstances, but the irony is he died at what he loved, which was politics. 

I’m not a frequent watcher of Meet the Press, but I do catch it online and was the best at his profession.  Look at his ratings; his ratings tripled of the second leading Sunday News morning show and his enjoyment of anything politics showed, especially this year.  It was both Bob Schieffer and Tim Russert who holds Washington at his hands.  Now, it’s one.  Also, I’m amazed by the reaction from all corners from liberals, conservatives, and fans give their appreciation to Tim.

What I really like about Tim was not his job, but was a true everyman and felt real.  I really enjoy his chants of “Go Bills!” or anything Buffalo related, showing his true colors and sharing it to the rest of the nation.  He was a quintessential Bills Fan, unlike Chris Berman or my brother, who only rooted for the team because of the K-Gun offense and the potential of fantasy football points back then.  Anyway, he made Buffalo proud and although some might not like going to Buffalo, he wanted to show his pride and true patriotism to this country, which the country seems to lose perspective of. 

Now, I’ve been watching the coverage on all the networks, including the NBC channels and some say the coverage is going overboard on his death and that he’s another person.  I will say this, NBC need to stop this “Tim build this place.”  No, if there was someone who builds that place, it was Jim Vance, who helped the local NBC affiliate in DC grow into the number one broadcast locally and WRC-TV gave way for NBC to build a news bureau there to share resources with WRC.  However, Russert reinvented the Sunday Morning show and by politics lovers, it was must see TV.  Of course, it had to compete with a few months, the NFL, where fantasy football and betting is the most important thing.  This is why Russert was relevant to NBC.  He had indirect competition, but with the internet and his everyman personality, he was influential.  Everyone can scoop people and get news anytime, but when you hear Russert and you understand his background, any word out of his mouth is important; even his hands (i.e. the Whiteboard) was important.  If you’re prepared, knowledgeable and passionate about a subject, and an authentic personality, you can make it anywhere and that’s why everyone, including me, will miss Tim.

Another irony was that he died on Friday the 13th and died before Fathers Day.  Since he was a believer in faith, I think God had plans to tell us that he was sorry he had to take away a Washington institution, but he wanted all fathers a reminder that tomorrow is something special and appreciate what you have, because you don’t know what’s going to happen today, tomorrow, next week, etc.  I’m sorry for Tim’s wife, Maureen and his son, Luke, and his father, Big Russ, which Tim took great care.  I like what Tom Shales quote, “It’s just not right that he is gone, just not right. It’s an affront, an outrage, an act of cruelty — and something that Russert never was: unfair.”  Politics will never be the same anywhere, especially Washington, D.C.

2. McCain vs. Obama

Now the primaries are finally over, it’s time for McCain-Obama.  It’s way early to analyze, probably around the conventions, I’ll start it on late August, when the party begins.  The next two months will be all sound bites and noise.  No thank you.

3. R. Kelly acquitted

With all the news about Russert, R. Kelly was acquitted on all charges of child pornography.  This news has not shocked me.  The Boondocks perfectly predicted the outcome.  Sadly, there was no one who sounded like Adam West in the real trial:

4. Iowa

Iowa is looking like Atlantis with the flooding the past two days.  The images are surreal, but what I am amazed that the people are so calm about this.  Of course it’s a little worrisome that they’re going to be homeless and can’t do anything to earn money, but I think the people at Iowa really love the attention and felt underappreciated, except being the first state election during the Primaries. 

Well, there was bad news that a tornado hit a Boy Scout camp in Iowa, killing 4 people, so Iowa doesn’t want that attention that bad.  What’s up with Iowa this month?  I think it’s the corn or could be the numerous oval tracks.

5. Lakers-Celtics

I’m glad the NBA has the historic matchup to end an almost perfect season for the NBA and possibly a return to the nation’s second sport.  I said almost because of the news Tim Donaghy mention the two games that were fixed that he did not officiate:  Game 6 of Lakers-Kings, and 2005 Mavs-Rockets.  The NBA has a problem with the image that the games are more of an exhibition than the actual game, but I really think Donaghy chose those two games to get back at the NBA after the league wants $1 million from Donaghy.  Anyway, I don’t care who wins, but the sport really need this.  Now they need the Knicks…never mind.

6. Big Brown

If your trainer has a big mouth, sponsored by Hooters, didn’t take steroids in the last race, a broken hoof, and a track that your uncomfortable, you’re not likely a triple crown candidate, you’re likely to be last, which what happened to Big Brown at the Belmont Stakes.  This race proves they don’t make horses like they use to in the 1970s, the breeders are not properly treating the horses, and the sport needs a makeover and the sport is now a backburner of an event after what happened to Big Brown.  The sport is dead.

That is all and I actually have a couple of announcements.

1. I just got a laptop and will use it to my trip to Chicago to post photos.  I am getting half way there to the 21st century.
2. Big announcement next month.
3. Enjoy Fathers Day.

 

Tracy’s Random Thoughts May 2008 Edition

Before we go to the big show, take some time to pray for the people in China and Burma and hopefully the areas that struck will be back to normal or better than normal.  Here we go:

1. Again, the 2008 Presidential Election

We know the election will be between Barack Obama and John McCain.  Hillary Clinton still thinks she’s in this race, but this week, it made clear that George Bush just made the Democrats stronger.  If I were President, I would just say great things about the 60th Anniversary of Israel and don’t go lower than the 29% approval rating he has.  Instead, he used the Israel meeting to make a platform that a Democratic President (Obama) would “appease” to terrorists.  Umm, why go there, so you can attract the evangelicals and the Bible Belt to go Republican?  Most of the country realize you were using the war to have a war.  I’ll try to sum up my position on Bush with this:

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/05/15/biden-calls-bush-comments-bulls-t/

As for McCain, he agreed with Bush with his comments.  And I thought he was a Maverick by being the anti-Bush.  Good luck getting votes.  Clinton got shoved out of the spotlight after winning West Virginia by 40 points and has to dealt with John Edwards endorsing Obama and a secondary player in the Bush vs. Obama spat.  This also proves George Bush just found the needle to unite all Democrats and guess what…they’re not going to back down until November and the Democrats have found their backbone.

On a side note, I feel sorry for Kevin James, who got whipped by Chris Matthews the other night.  Wait…it’s not the comedian from King of Queens?

Nevermind.

2. Doug Kmiec

If you don’t know who Doug Kmiec is, he’s a conservative legal scholar who wants pro-choice to be prohibited and is a Catholic (also shares the same birthday with me).  It was news last week that Mr. Kmiec is supporting Obama because of his positive message that is not only good for the U.S., but for the whole world.

This piece is not about him supporting Obama, this is about what happened to him when he supported Obama.  In the article he wrote, he was denied Communion because he supported Obama because he’s pro-choice. 

I have done a number of terrible things, but for supporting someone who is a nice guy and has goodwill and you deny him Holy Communion because of one political stance?  Apparently, this also happened to Kathleen Sebelius as well when a Kansas City priest denied her communion because she was pro-choice.  This is how my religion is going to react when someone supports Obama? 

I’m going to be in Keith Olbermann mode on this so be aware:

I’m a pro-life, liberal Democrat.  I am socially conservative, but that’s just me.  I’m fiscally liberal, hence my stance as a liberal.  I’ve been Catholic my whole life and I like who I am because of my family raising me as a Catholic.  The Doug Kmiec incident shows me the higher ups fear the Catholic influence is dwindling.  All churches are there for guidance and rejuvenate people for the long week.  In today’s world, people want to have freedom to make a choice of what will make them happy or comfortable.  It should be the church to help these people find their right path. 

In only speaking to the Catholic church, people are coming to the Catholic church in smaller numbers because the overall message hasn’t transferred into a result.  The abusing scandals, the strict code that you must follow every guideline Catholics must follow, and now denying Communion because of someone’s personal views.  I don’t care what other people do.  If they are happy being gay, having sex at a young age, or loves porn, that’s their pergoative.  If it’s a fellow Catholic, that might be different.  What the Catholic Church needs to promote is positivity and provide guidance and don’t be bent on the strict Catholic rules forced into every individual coming into the church.   This is what Obama wants: a positive message to unite everyone.  Instead of uniting Catholics, you, the Catholic Church, are only focusing about yourselves and the declining persuasion you had previously.  My generation wants to be proactive and most still believe in the Catholic Church. 

There are many great priests in the U.S., but do yourself (The Catholic Church) a favor and welcome people in, instead of restricting people.  Right now, people want comfort, not politics and this very story is why people are not attracted to the Catholic Church.  There should be no one left out, yet the Catholic Church are acting like a country club or an elite VIP member at a party.  The Catholic church needs to bring back the message of hope and unity (Also, find the next Joel Osteen and his mullet) like it used to be.  Get your act together and be part of the 21st Century.

3. Blogging and Sports

I only saw 10 seconds of a debate about blogging and the media between Buzz Bissinger and Deadspin creator Will Leitch and you know the ten seconds I’m talking about.  From that clip, Bissinger had made great points, but didn’t present himself well in that segment.  In the aftermath, the bloggers praise Leitch and bash Bissinger, which is not a shock.  I wasn’t shock as well that Bissinger apologize and mention clearly that blogs do have a place in the media.  Now the question:  who is Will Leitch and what is his purpose that he created Deadspin?  

From his interviews, Leitch has stated that he created Deadspin for the fans who are hating corporate media, the journalists and elitist athletes who have everything and a regular fan is paying money to put it in their pockets.  I’ve read Deadspin on occasion and understand why it’s the number one sports blog.  In a nutshell, Deadspin is to the sports world as TMZ is to the entertainment industry.   The real problem is people view Deadspin really think is the best news source for sports.  Which leads to me that the only reason Deadspin exists…

ATTENTION!!!

Of course that’s not a big shock as well.  Everyone who wants to blog wants attention, including myself.  However, I think Leitch saw the TMZ format working well and use the same method into sports and is working.  From this entry from Fanhouse, Jason Whitlock mentioned that Deadspin is the low class of all the blogs because of his use of race.  However, the main point is from an NPR interview where Will did for Weekend Edition with Scott Simon where Scott asked him about his glossary about race and sex.  This made me gave an opinion that Will Leitch is either a closet racist and pervert or is an attention whore.  Either way, any view is unfavorable to me.  There are blogs I really like and some I don’t, but the most important of a blog is about the intent from the creator or person writing in that blog and from Will Leitch’s books and posts, I will back away.

4. Tony Kornheiser’s Washington Post buyout

At the end of the month, Tony Kornheiser will take the buyout and leave the Washington Post as a full-time employee.  This was expected, but here’s one thing I will miss: The Washington Post Sports staff.  Here is the list of people that worked for the Washington Post in the 1980s-90s:

• Tony Kornheiser
• Michael Wilbon
• Richard Justice
• Rachel Nichols (Alexander)
• Liz Clarke
• Thomas Boswell
• David Aldridge
• Dave Kindred
• Shirley Povich
• Norman Chad
• Len Shapiro
• Christine Brennan
• Andrew Beyer
• John “Junior” Feinstein

There were many others, but that my friends is a sports department.  I use to read their columns daily when I was very young.  Sadly, we’re probably not going to have this list of writers in the same office or anywhere.  I don’t blame Mr. Tony taking the buyout since he has other avenues that he’s making cash.  This is one thing when newspapaers failed to embrace the new technology, and now, they are paying for it now. 

5. Links of Interest

Here are some links that when you click it, it reads for itself:

1. On the DL with Dan Levy
2. CNN Headline T-Shirts
3. This
4. Popping Wrapping Bubbles
5. By Popular Demand for the five people who read this blog: Liz Clarke on C-SPAN with a cameo appearance by some goofus with a brown sweater.

That is all.  Next month…

ROAD TRIP TO CHICAGO!!! 

See you then and lock the doors.