Where's the outrage? Gas prices are above $3.00 in some places. Where are the Democrats to save us? When gas prices were going up last, the Democrats accused Congress and the President of "sleeping" with the oil companies and allowing them to gouge the American public. But the Democrats are pretty silent now. Could it be because the American government really can't control the price of gas? Could it be that Congress really doesn't have control of international oil prices? Could it be that the oil companies are a business and, as a business, they are responsible to their shareholders and not the United States government? Nah, couldn't be those things.
The Democrats are completely cracking up. Pelosi cannot keep control of the House. They can't come up with anything on Iraq. Some Democrats have sold their soul to the fringe (MoveOn.org types) and can't signoff on any bill without alienating their supporters. The Dems can't get anything done on the DC vote bill. Of course, if you read the Constitution, it's clear that DC is a district. It's not a state. Therefore, its residents don't have a vote in federal elections. But who cares about the Constitution?
The Democrats are finding that it's not as easy to govern as they had thought. They can't even get their block together on a cause. Some Democrats want a hard pullout date. Some want a "secret" pullout date. The House Democrats have passed a bill that authorizes funding for the Iraq war but has the mandatory pullout date of March of 2008, and has the $24 billion of pork in it -- the bribery that was necessary to get the Out of Iraq Caucus to support this, because they didn't want the funding, folks. The Out of Iraq Caucus doesn't want to give any more money to this bunch, the president, or the war, or anything else. They want him out of there.
The president will likely veto the bill because you can't set a pullout date...it's absolutely insane to tell your enemy that you will be leaving on a certain date. What sense does that make? Listen, I've said it before and I'll say it again...we need out of Iraq but we need to do so with victory, not defeat. The Democrats have only been able to come up with plans that ensure defeat.
Regardless, the Democrats seem to be falling apart. They can't come up with a consensus on anything and it's pretty funny to watch. Well, it would be funny if there weren't thousands of lives at risk. Right now, it's just sad.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
I Stand Corrected...
The Mountaineer basketball team did wear shirts that declared West Virgina the NIT champs...how great is that:
Friday, March 30, 2007
Can't Buy a Break
Well, WVU wins the NIT and that should be commemorated on a nice t-shirt, I guess. Well, 6thManSportsWear.com, the officially licensed vendor for the NIT produced this beauty:
6thMan acknowledged its mistake with this disclaimer: ***PLEASE NOTE: In our rush to put up a graphic immediately after the closing buzzer, we inadvertently used in incorrect image. We apologize for the error. The correct Championship Tee Shirts will ship, not the "misspelled" shirt! Thank You!
Ah, poor West Virginia. Is just never ends, does it?
6thMan acknowledged its mistake with this disclaimer: ***PLEASE NOTE: In our rush to put up a graphic immediately after the closing buzzer, we inadvertently used in incorrect image. We apologize for the error. The correct Championship Tee Shirts will ship, not the "misspelled" shirt! Thank You!
Ah, poor West Virginia. Is just never ends, does it?
Meet Your NIT Champs
West Virginia wins the NIT. Not too bad really. First NIT championship in 65 years...really only the 2nd post season tournament championship for the Mountaineers ever. Pretty cool. It's not the NCAA tournament...but I still think it's better than losing in the first round of the NCAAs. And that joke about the NIT winner being the 66th best team in the nation? Not true...there are several teams that make the NCAA ever year that West Virginia could have easily disposed of.
Anyway, great experience for a young Mountaineer team. The rigors of going through a tournament like that should pay huge dividends next year. History, though, says otherwise. The last team to win the NIT and then make the NCAA tournament was Memphis in 2002. But, I think West Virginia is on the road to a strong season next year (if Beilein stays).
But the biggest thing the NIT victory shows is that West Virginia can win big games. For years, West Virginia was an underachieving teams. Early exits from the Big East tournament, NCAA tournament and NIT were expected. West Virginia was never expected to win a bowl game. Playing against a Top 25 team in basketball or football...put it down as a loss. But not anymore. Catlett and Nehlen are gone and suddenly, not only is West Virginia winning a large majority of the games they are supposed to win, they are winning some games that people don't give them a chance to win. The deep runs in the NCAA tournament, Big East tournament and, now, NIT show that West Virginia's mindset as immediate losers seems to be past. The bowl wins means the guaranteed loss stigma has passed (and moved on to Notre Dame). It's about time.
Obviously, both squads have a ways to go before they bring home the coveted national championship. But both have shown they aren't nearly as far away as they were 10 years ago. Would you be surprised to see WVU football playing for a national championship this year? No. Winning it? Not as farfetched as it used to be. And, WVU basketball is heading down that same path. Beilein is a winner...and his teams are too. Florida...watch out because the Mountaineer dynasty could be coming soon.
Anyway, great experience for a young Mountaineer team. The rigors of going through a tournament like that should pay huge dividends next year. History, though, says otherwise. The last team to win the NIT and then make the NCAA tournament was Memphis in 2002. But, I think West Virginia is on the road to a strong season next year (if Beilein stays).
But the biggest thing the NIT victory shows is that West Virginia can win big games. For years, West Virginia was an underachieving teams. Early exits from the Big East tournament, NCAA tournament and NIT were expected. West Virginia was never expected to win a bowl game. Playing against a Top 25 team in basketball or football...put it down as a loss. But not anymore. Catlett and Nehlen are gone and suddenly, not only is West Virginia winning a large majority of the games they are supposed to win, they are winning some games that people don't give them a chance to win. The deep runs in the NCAA tournament, Big East tournament and, now, NIT show that West Virginia's mindset as immediate losers seems to be past. The bowl wins means the guaranteed loss stigma has passed (and moved on to Notre Dame). It's about time.
Obviously, both squads have a ways to go before they bring home the coveted national championship. But both have shown they aren't nearly as far away as they were 10 years ago. Would you be surprised to see WVU football playing for a national championship this year? No. Winning it? Not as farfetched as it used to be. And, WVU basketball is heading down that same path. Beilein is a winner...and his teams are too. Florida...watch out because the Mountaineer dynasty could be coming soon.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Is Beilein Staying or Going?
Well, you knew it was going to happen. The reports are already starting that Michigan wants John Beilein. And the Beilein is interested in leaving but the buyout is too high and the John would like the buyout to be lower, yada yada yada.
The funny thing is the conflicting reports that are already out there. ESPN is reporting that the Wolverines primary focus is Beilein. CBS is reporting that Michigan is going after Vanderbilt's Kevin Stallings. They don't even list Beilein in the named candidates section.
But, be prepared. We went through it with Beilein and NC State...Rodriguez and Alabama...and now Beilein and Michigan. And who knows who else will come after the coach? Will be a nervous couple weeks in Morgantown, that's for sure.
The funny thing is the conflicting reports that are already out there. ESPN is reporting that the Wolverines primary focus is Beilein. CBS is reporting that Michigan is going after Vanderbilt's Kevin Stallings. They don't even list Beilein in the named candidates section.
But, be prepared. We went through it with Beilein and NC State...Rodriguez and Alabama...and now Beilein and Michigan. And who knows who else will come after the coach? Will be a nervous couple weeks in Morgantown, that's for sure.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Poor, poor Pac Man
Parental Warning: The video below contains inappropriate material. "Inappropriate" material is any video that features pornography, sexually explicit acts, dangerous or illegal acts, real violence, hate speech, threats or harassment. Please watch at your own risk...
Description:
When Pacman goes on a rampage, whose to blame: Is it is absentee father? His parolee mother? One thing's for sure-Pacman definitely knows how to party.
Description:
When Pacman goes on a rampage, whose to blame: Is it is absentee father? His parolee mother? One thing's for sure-Pacman definitely knows how to party.
Oh Iran...Stop It
Well, Iran decided to pluck some British soldiers out of the water. Whether those waters were Iraqi or Iranian remains disputed. And the U.K. wants the 15 soldiers back. So, things could really get ugly -- well, even uglier -- in the Middle East.
It's obvious that the kidnapping (or capturing) of the British soldiers is in direct response to UN resolutions condemning Iran's nuclear ambitions. Iran's problems were exacerbated when Russia refused to deliver nuclear fuel to Iran due to non-payment. So, the Mahmoud's are getting a little desperate and, I anticipate, going to use the British hostages as bargaining chips in a high stakes game of international poker.
The United States has repeatedly issued statements denying any plans to attack Iran but are currently engaging in "war games" as a show of strength in the Persian Gulf area. Russian intelligence is saying that we are already prepared for an invasion and "a strike against Iran 'that would enable the Americans to bring the country to its knees at minimal cost.'"
All I know is that this is going to be bad for summer gas prices in the short term. In the long term, it could get very, very ugly. I'm very interested to see how the Democrats are going to respond to this situation. Stay tuned...
Anyway, awesome win for the basketball team last night. Couldn't get a better game in the NIT. One of those great, great plays that are pretty much completely ignored though because it was the NIT. But, as I said before, great for the players and great extra practice for the young team. They really have a shot at doing something special next year.
It's obvious that the kidnapping (or capturing) of the British soldiers is in direct response to UN resolutions condemning Iran's nuclear ambitions. Iran's problems were exacerbated when Russia refused to deliver nuclear fuel to Iran due to non-payment. So, the Mahmoud's are getting a little desperate and, I anticipate, going to use the British hostages as bargaining chips in a high stakes game of international poker.
The United States has repeatedly issued statements denying any plans to attack Iran but are currently engaging in "war games" as a show of strength in the Persian Gulf area. Russian intelligence is saying that we are already prepared for an invasion and "a strike against Iran 'that would enable the Americans to bring the country to its knees at minimal cost.'"
All I know is that this is going to be bad for summer gas prices in the short term. In the long term, it could get very, very ugly. I'm very interested to see how the Democrats are going to respond to this situation. Stay tuned...
Anyway, awesome win for the basketball team last night. Couldn't get a better game in the NIT. One of those great, great plays that are pretty much completely ignored though because it was the NIT. But, as I said before, great for the players and great extra practice for the young team. They really have a shot at doing something special next year.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Why I Hate This Year's Final Four
First of all, I got 2 out of the Final Four correctly...which isn't bad I guess. And my championship teams remain. But, I really don't like any of the Final Four teams. None of them at all. Georgetown is as close as it comes to me actually supporting one of these teams. And that's only because 1) Georgetown is in the Big East, and 2) When I was little, I always thought Georgetown was pretty cool and on my first visit to DC (I was like 8), I made it a special point to find Georgetown apparel and I thought it was pretty awesome.
Anyway, I don't like the Final Four teams. So, I give you the following reasoning for hoping all four teams find someway to lose...
UCLA - Ben Howland used to coach at Pittsburgh. Right there is enough reason to hate them. UCLA has won 10 NCAA basketball championships...they don't need any more. Also, UCLA fans still think John Wooden is their coach. He's not. Jim Harrick used to coach there and won a national championship. Harrick is a well-known NCAA cheat.
Ohio State - Greg Oden is 73-years old. And Oden likes to shove little Xavier players. And shove them with malice in his heart. Come on...he almost pushed the guy in the first row. But, anyway, didn't Ohio State just play for a football national championship and get crushed? Do we really have to watch the same thing happen to them in basketball. No way Ohio State wins. They're just taking up room...with their 73-year old center.
Georgetown - Bill Clinton went to Georgetown. John Thompson led the Hoyas to a championship in 1984 and, for some reason, that makes Georgetown a legendary basketball program. John Thompson is an angry, angry man. Roy Hibbert is an avid Pokemon fan (I'm not making that up) and and teammates frequently use the phrase "Power up, big fella", as a way of motivating Roy and getting him to play hard. They defeated UNC which is a big negative.
Florida - How many championships does a team need? Let's share Gators. Let's share. Football and basketball...booooooo. Anyway, Joakim Noah is insane and may have eaten a baby or two. He attempted to smack the pom-poms of a UCLA cheerleader...which is a big no-no. Billy Donovan is coach and he is flirting with Kentucky now. And Donovan coached at Marshall. And it's the Florida Gators. What more needs to be said to hate them?
Anyway, that's the Final Four. Not much to cheer for there. No underdogs. No coaches that inspire you. No player that really makes you feel good about their success. Just four "elite" programs (Georgetown, you're on the fringe) that made it to the Final Four. *Yawn*
Anyway, I don't like the Final Four teams. So, I give you the following reasoning for hoping all four teams find someway to lose...
UCLA - Ben Howland used to coach at Pittsburgh. Right there is enough reason to hate them. UCLA has won 10 NCAA basketball championships...they don't need any more. Also, UCLA fans still think John Wooden is their coach. He's not. Jim Harrick used to coach there and won a national championship. Harrick is a well-known NCAA cheat.
Ohio State - Greg Oden is 73-years old. And Oden likes to shove little Xavier players. And shove them with malice in his heart. Come on...he almost pushed the guy in the first row. But, anyway, didn't Ohio State just play for a football national championship and get crushed? Do we really have to watch the same thing happen to them in basketball. No way Ohio State wins. They're just taking up room...with their 73-year old center.
Georgetown - Bill Clinton went to Georgetown. John Thompson led the Hoyas to a championship in 1984 and, for some reason, that makes Georgetown a legendary basketball program. John Thompson is an angry, angry man. Roy Hibbert is an avid Pokemon fan (I'm not making that up) and and teammates frequently use the phrase "Power up, big fella", as a way of motivating Roy and getting him to play hard. They defeated UNC which is a big negative.
Florida - How many championships does a team need? Let's share Gators. Let's share. Football and basketball...booooooo. Anyway, Joakim Noah is insane and may have eaten a baby or two. He attempted to smack the pom-poms of a UCLA cheerleader...which is a big no-no. Billy Donovan is coach and he is flirting with Kentucky now. And Donovan coached at Marshall. And it's the Florida Gators. What more needs to be said to hate them?
Anyway, that's the Final Four. Not much to cheer for there. No underdogs. No coaches that inspire you. No player that really makes you feel good about their success. Just four "elite" programs (Georgetown, you're on the fringe) that made it to the Final Four. *Yawn*
Friday, March 23, 2007
It's Over
Put a fork in me...I'm done. My bracket officially died last night when Texas A&M couldn't get a rebound to win a huge game. My chances of winning were smashed when Texas A&M fouled a Mephis player with 3.1 seconds remaining. My dreams were crushed when, inexplicablly, A&M inbounded the ball, it went out of bounds almost immediately and the officials took 1.1 seconds off the clock. And then, just to rub a little salt in the wound, UCLA decided to score a few points and beat Pitt...
And then, with my bracket busted anyway, I was hoping Ohio State would fall. And that just wasn't meant to be either. The 73-year old Greg Oden had to make a block to beat Tennessee. Oh, why hath thou forsaken thee?
Anyway, with my bracket officially dead, I can just sit back and root for the Tarheels now. I don't have them winning it all...but who cares? Maybe Roy can get the boys to play cohesively and they'll put together a run. They have to win tonight to get that started though.
WVU plays against Mississippi State in the semifinals in New York on Tuesday night. So, the question is whether you would rather have your team in the NIT and still playing or in the NCAA tournament where they play one game and go home? I'm glad we're in the NIT and still playing. It's great experience for the younger players and I think it will pay major dividends in the upcoming year.
And then, with my bracket busted anyway, I was hoping Ohio State would fall. And that just wasn't meant to be either. The 73-year old Greg Oden had to make a block to beat Tennessee. Oh, why hath thou forsaken thee?
Anyway, with my bracket officially dead, I can just sit back and root for the Tarheels now. I don't have them winning it all...but who cares? Maybe Roy can get the boys to play cohesively and they'll put together a run. They have to win tonight to get that started though.
WVU plays against Mississippi State in the semifinals in New York on Tuesday night. So, the question is whether you would rather have your team in the NIT and still playing or in the NCAA tournament where they play one game and go home? I'm glad we're in the NIT and still playing. It's great experience for the younger players and I think it will pay major dividends in the upcoming year.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
America's Idealized, Less-Than-Real Black Man
David Ehrenstein of the LA Times wrote an article that was published Monday entitled: Obama the 'Magic Negro'. The point of Ehrenstein's article is that so many support Obama because they are attempting to atone for the guilt they feel for the slavery days and that Obama's lack of substance makes him the perfect candidate for whites to support. I'll let you read the article...I don't necessarily agree with it. Most politicians don't have substance...Hilary has no substance. Tell me where she stands on an issue. And I mean consistently...not just today. Obama is no different...and I think Ehrenstein's article is a real insult to him and those who support his candidacy.
Anyway, Mountaineer women blew a big lead last night to lose to LSU in the NCAA tournament. Mountaineer men host NC State tonight at the Coliseum. Should be a good game.
Tomorrow I will be traveling to Martinsburg and I will be in Wheeling on Thursday...just so you know. And, I think that's about it.
Anyway, Mountaineer women blew a big lead last night to lose to LSU in the NCAA tournament. Mountaineer men host NC State tonight at the Coliseum. Should be a good game.
Tomorrow I will be traveling to Martinsburg and I will be in Wheeling on Thursday...just so you know. And, I think that's about it.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Basketball Update
Well, the "Fighting Irish" remain the biggest disappointment of my bracket to date. I have 7 out of 8 Elite Eight teams remaining. Biggest surprises to me, UNLV and Vanderbilt. Biggest disappointment? Texas. I can't believe the Longhorns didn't get to the Sweet 16. But, overall, I'm still in decent shape. I should have known better than to support the Irish...man, do I hate Notre Dame.
West Virginia men's team will face North Carolina State on Tuesday. WVU defeated NC State earlier this year but the Wolfpack have improved a great deal since then. Should be a good game. Winner advances to the "Final Four" of the NIT.
WVU women won their first NCAA Tournament game in 15 years on Saturday. I tried to watch the game...but women's basketball is very tough to watch. I also tried to watch some girl's basketball last night...it's so sloppy. The thing that really struck me was the lack of attendance. There probably wasn't more than 300 people at the WVU women's game in Texas. It is very sad. I still think the women need to move their tournament to generate interest. They cannot compete against the men's NCAA Tournament. Sorry.
Lastly, although I do not endorse Senator Clinton or Senator Obama, I have to post this video that is making the rounds for Obama. His camp will not take credit for the video...but, it's pretty striking. The Apple "1984" commercial is probably the greatest commercial of all-time. Well, this is definitely an interesting remake...and, well, I agree. Hilary is a talking head...droning out rhetoric with no message. This video receives two thumbs up.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWvHbOoG3tI
West Virginia men's team will face North Carolina State on Tuesday. WVU defeated NC State earlier this year but the Wolfpack have improved a great deal since then. Should be a good game. Winner advances to the "Final Four" of the NIT.
WVU women won their first NCAA Tournament game in 15 years on Saturday. I tried to watch the game...but women's basketball is very tough to watch. I also tried to watch some girl's basketball last night...it's so sloppy. The thing that really struck me was the lack of attendance. There probably wasn't more than 300 people at the WVU women's game in Texas. It is very sad. I still think the women need to move their tournament to generate interest. They cannot compete against the men's NCAA Tournament. Sorry.
Lastly, although I do not endorse Senator Clinton or Senator Obama, I have to post this video that is making the rounds for Obama. His camp will not take credit for the video...but, it's pretty striking. The Apple "1984" commercial is probably the greatest commercial of all-time. Well, this is definitely an interesting remake...and, well, I agree. Hilary is a talking head...droning out rhetoric with no message. This video receives two thumbs up.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWvHbOoG3tI
Friday, March 16, 2007
Goodnight Coach K
Out of all the games that occurred yesterday, including the NIT games, none gave me greater satisfaction than the VCU/Duke game. Is it wrong to hate a team so much that them losing if greater than any other team winning? Is it wrong to have such disdain for a coach that you would like to see him coach the Knicks? Is it wrong to hope someone goes Artest on Josh McRoberts? Well, if those things are wrong, I don't want to be right.
Anyway, I am currently 13-3 in my bracket, correctly calling the upset of Duke in the first round. I don't have any of my 3 losing teams advancing so I feel pretty good about my first day. For the most part, yesterday was a complete snoozer. No major upsets (unless you count the Duke game). We'll see how today goes...the Notre Dame/Winthrop game is giving me the most worries considering I have ND in the Elite Eight. Other than that, I feel pretty good.
Once again, I encourage folks to come over and join CollegeSportsLiveHere.com and try to breathe a little life into the board. I can only write so much myself. Secondly, I received an invitation to join wvbloggers.com which is another forum for West Virginia sports...so, I joined and haven't posted yet but I would encourage you to check that out too and maybe bash the Herd a little for fun.
Lastly, as for Mayo, I've heard a lot about the charges being dropped, yada yada...but the simple fact is the guy was charged for misdemeanor possession before the charges were dropped and Huntington's coach had an opportunity to send a message and failed to do so. The kid was in the car and their was marijuana in the car...now, I'm no genius but I can put two and two together...but, hey, it doesn't matter. Huntington will win the state championship tomorrow and Mayo will go to USC and the rest, as they say, will be history.
Anyway, I am currently 13-3 in my bracket, correctly calling the upset of Duke in the first round. I don't have any of my 3 losing teams advancing so I feel pretty good about my first day. For the most part, yesterday was a complete snoozer. No major upsets (unless you count the Duke game). We'll see how today goes...the Notre Dame/Winthrop game is giving me the most worries considering I have ND in the Elite Eight. Other than that, I feel pretty good.
Once again, I encourage folks to come over and join CollegeSportsLiveHere.com and try to breathe a little life into the board. I can only write so much myself. Secondly, I received an invitation to join wvbloggers.com which is another forum for West Virginia sports...so, I joined and haven't posted yet but I would encourage you to check that out too and maybe bash the Herd a little for fun.
Lastly, as for Mayo, I've heard a lot about the charges being dropped, yada yada...but the simple fact is the guy was charged for misdemeanor possession before the charges were dropped and Huntington's coach had an opportunity to send a message and failed to do so. The kid was in the car and their was marijuana in the car...now, I'm no genius but I can put two and two together...but, hey, it doesn't matter. Huntington will win the state championship tomorrow and Mayo will go to USC and the rest, as they say, will be history.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
A Followup on Mayo
If you thought I was being to harsh on OJ Mayo, read the following article: McAlarney learns from past, looks forward to future. Kyle McAlarney wasn't fortunate enough to just have people look the other way. Mike Brey suspended him for seven games...but Notre Dame decided that wasn't enough and suspended him for an entire semester.
I think that's probably a little extreme, quite frankly. But, no action at all is far worse.
I think that's probably a little extreme, quite frankly. But, no action at all is far worse.
Lost Productivity
Well, today at 12:20 p.m. EDT begins what is affectionately referred to as "March Madness." And productivity of America's businesses crashes as minds turn away from tasks at hand to college basketball and the brackets that will be busted beyond belief by midnight tonight. Internet traffic to businesses will spike and poor users that rely on the Internet to accomplish their work will be frustrated. IT Departments will be searching for ways to prevent live video and/or audio feeds of the games...and will come under heavy fire for doing so. And I will be waiting for 7:10 tonight...so I can watch VCU defeat the evil Coach K. What a great time it is for all!
But, more importantly, I want to alert you to a little tidbit today from John Veasey's column in the world-renowned Times-West Virginian. Someone in Fairmont has started a unicycle club, and is seeking members. So, I would suggest that if you want to learn to ride a unicycle, you purchase a copy of the Times today to get the information and start practicing. Unicycles...awesome. And, if you need one, look no further than Unicycle.com. Awesome.
Lastly, tonight WVU faces UMass in the lesser tournament. Believe it or not, it's been 12 years since West Virginia played the Minutemen when they were both in the A-10. Another connection between the schools is a guy named Luke Bonner. Luke was supposed to develop into a good player for the Mountaineers but was unhappy with something (likely, playing time) and decided to pack it in and head home. Luke has played in 30 games, but is averaging only 1.6 points and 1.2 rebounds. I'm guessing he would have faired better under the Beilein system...but, hey, that's how it goes. I expect a good game but the Mountaineers should be able to advance. If they want to, that is.
But, more importantly, I want to alert you to a little tidbit today from John Veasey's column in the world-renowned Times-West Virginian. Someone in Fairmont has started a unicycle club, and is seeking members. So, I would suggest that if you want to learn to ride a unicycle, you purchase a copy of the Times today to get the information and start practicing. Unicycles...awesome. And, if you need one, look no further than Unicycle.com. Awesome.
Lastly, tonight WVU faces UMass in the lesser tournament. Believe it or not, it's been 12 years since West Virginia played the Minutemen when they were both in the A-10. Another connection between the schools is a guy named Luke Bonner. Luke was supposed to develop into a good player for the Mountaineers but was unhappy with something (likely, playing time) and decided to pack it in and head home. Luke has played in 30 games, but is averaging only 1.6 points and 1.2 rebounds. I'm guessing he would have faired better under the Beilein system...but, hey, that's how it goes. I expect a good game but the Mountaineers should be able to advance. If they want to, that is.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
There's Losing and Then There's...
There's losing and then there's what Huntington did to West Fairmont Wednesday night at the boy's basketball tournament. The Highlanders beat Fairmont Senior by a score of 103-39. 103-39?!? Geesh. From what I read, the Highlanders were kind enough to finally sit Mayo and Patterson in the 4th quarter. They only led 82-25 after the third.
I'm glad to see that the Huntington coach didn't have any moral dilemmas in playing Mayo. Ya know, he could have benched him for the game (like I said the other day) and made it look like he cared that Mayo got busted for possession. But, nah, who cares? Mayo is the draw of the state tournament...why would anyone ever consider benching him? Maybe if he actually killed someone...and there was no indisputable evidence. I think it's pretty sad really...college coaches would not play a guy who was busted for marijuana possession (or they would at least make it look like they care)...but, if it's high school and you're the star player, it doesn't matter.
Anyway, I'll get off my pedestal now. Obviously, Huntington was stacked and should easily win the state tournament. I'm just not real sure at what cost. But, sports is money...and Huntington High is raking it in off of Mayo's name. And it's pretty sad.
I'm glad to see that the Huntington coach didn't have any moral dilemmas in playing Mayo. Ya know, he could have benched him for the game (like I said the other day) and made it look like he cared that Mayo got busted for possession. But, nah, who cares? Mayo is the draw of the state tournament...why would anyone ever consider benching him? Maybe if he actually killed someone...and there was no indisputable evidence. I think it's pretty sad really...college coaches would not play a guy who was busted for marijuana possession (or they would at least make it look like they care)...but, if it's high school and you're the star player, it doesn't matter.
Anyway, I'll get off my pedestal now. Obviously, Huntington was stacked and should easily win the state tournament. I'm just not real sure at what cost. But, sports is money...and Huntington High is raking it in off of Mayo's name. And it's pretty sad.
Teacher Walkout; WVU Basketball
Well, let me start out by saying I think the teachers in the counties that walked out today are dumb. Here's why:
1) Five counties walking out doesn't show much unity. I've already said it doesn't appear the two unions can get on the same page and this just shows there's not much unity among the teachers throughout the state;
2) Parents don't like this walkout thing. Now those five counties have to find something to do with their kids. This isn't a good way to raise public support by having all this uncertainty;
3) Preston has missed a lot of school this year. I can't say how much...but I know they are beyond their snow days already. This doesn't show much care for students actually learning; and
4) The legislature has already been dismissed and the 3.5% raise is going to be signed. What good does a walkout do after the legislature has left Charleston? Doesn't make much sense.
Anyway, West Virginia easily defeated Delware State last night and will play UMass Thursday night. The Mountaineers didn't have much problem dismantling the Hornets. The win gave John Beilein his 100th as the Mountaineer head coach. Hopefully he will make it 100 more. (So, when do the Beilein to ??? rumors begin this year?)
Congratulations to the Mountaineer women who made the NCAA tournament this year. Hard to believe but this is only their 2nd appearance in the NCAA tournament in the last 15 years. Wow.
Lastly, if you haven't seen this commercial on TV yet...well, I'm not a big fan. I just don't get it...why did they give the referee lottery tickets? Why is the ref there? And if there was a ref there, why wasn't it Jim Burr? If Jim Burr were in the commercial, I would forgive the stupidity.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aY5JUSGeiuk
1) Five counties walking out doesn't show much unity. I've already said it doesn't appear the two unions can get on the same page and this just shows there's not much unity among the teachers throughout the state;
2) Parents don't like this walkout thing. Now those five counties have to find something to do with their kids. This isn't a good way to raise public support by having all this uncertainty;
3) Preston has missed a lot of school this year. I can't say how much...but I know they are beyond their snow days already. This doesn't show much care for students actually learning; and
4) The legislature has already been dismissed and the 3.5% raise is going to be signed. What good does a walkout do after the legislature has left Charleston? Doesn't make much sense.
Anyway, West Virginia easily defeated Delware State last night and will play UMass Thursday night. The Mountaineers didn't have much problem dismantling the Hornets. The win gave John Beilein his 100th as the Mountaineer head coach. Hopefully he will make it 100 more. (So, when do the Beilein to ??? rumors begin this year?)
Congratulations to the Mountaineer women who made the NCAA tournament this year. Hard to believe but this is only their 2nd appearance in the NCAA tournament in the last 15 years. Wow.
Lastly, if you haven't seen this commercial on TV yet...well, I'm not a big fan. I just don't get it...why did they give the referee lottery tickets? Why is the ref there? And if there was a ref there, why wasn't it Jim Burr? If Jim Burr were in the commercial, I would forgive the stupidity.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aY5JUSGeiuk
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Brackets are Painful
Well, I am in pain. Seriously. First, I love UNC. I want them to win it all. But their schedule is killer. Potential matchups against Marquette, Texas and Georgetown is way too much to deal with. I'm not sure they can get past Marquette really...but I have them in the Elite Eight where they lose to Georgetown.
I think Ohio State is overrated. I have them in the Elite Eight too but I think Texas A&M is really coming on strong and could beat them.
But my biggest pain comes from having Florida repeat. I just can't seem to beat them. Notre Dame is going to make a run...they're a good team. But they can't beat Florida. I think Wisconsin isn't that good...matter of fact, I think the whole Big Ten is overrated.
Pitt/UCLA is throwing me fits. I picked Pitt...but it's a tossup. I have Duke losing in the first round just because I truly, truly hate them.
Anyway, you can see all my picks HERE. Go ahead and bet, they're good.*
*but if they're not, don't call me.
I think Ohio State is overrated. I have them in the Elite Eight too but I think Texas A&M is really coming on strong and could beat them.
But my biggest pain comes from having Florida repeat. I just can't seem to beat them. Notre Dame is going to make a run...they're a good team. But they can't beat Florida. I think Wisconsin isn't that good...matter of fact, I think the whole Big Ten is overrated.
Pitt/UCLA is throwing me fits. I picked Pitt...but it's a tossup. I have Duke losing in the first round just because I truly, truly hate them.
Anyway, you can see all my picks HERE. Go ahead and bet, they're good.*
*but if they're not, don't call me.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Teacher Raises
I was reading Hoppy Kercheval's Commentary for the day and it makes a lot of sense to me. Teachers receive raises based on their years of experience. So, every teacher in the state will receive an incremental raise based on those years of experience. So any raise that the legislature passes would be a raise on that incremental raise. Hoppy's argument is that many teachers will get raises above and beyond the 6% that has been requested. Of course, the union and many teachers believe their "built-in" raises shouldn't be factored in to the discussion. I would disagree with that opinion.
But, again, I say there doesn't appear to be much public support for the teachers. I'm not sure why...but I don't sense a general outcry from the taxpayers of West Virginia to increase teacher salaries. I will agree that teachers do deserve a raise...but I don't get any impression that the public will support a work stoppage and that most people don't care. So, that doesn't bode well for the teachers' cause at all. Without public outcry, the teachers are pretty much stuck.
Lastly, the failure of teachers to see the incremental raise as part of the overall raise leads me to the budget cut discussion. It's funny when we hear about budget cuts. Especially when they're not a cut at all. Let's say I plan to increase spending on music 6% this year. Then I decide I'm only increasing my spending by 3% instead. Well, if I were the government, I would describe that as a cut. Even though I'm increasing my spending by 3%, it's still a cut because I'm not spending 6%.
That's a good ol' Democratic (and sometimes Republican) trick. When we hear stories about welfare "cuts" or school lunch "cuts," it's really just a decrease in the increased spending. Instead of increasing the spending by $100, we're increasing by $75 and that's a cut. It's just insane to look at things that way. Makes no sense.
Anyway, that's a different story...I'm working on my bracket and I'll have some picks ready by tonight or tomorrow. And I think I'm getting sick...my throat is killing me. We'll see how that goes.
But, again, I say there doesn't appear to be much public support for the teachers. I'm not sure why...but I don't sense a general outcry from the taxpayers of West Virginia to increase teacher salaries. I will agree that teachers do deserve a raise...but I don't get any impression that the public will support a work stoppage and that most people don't care. So, that doesn't bode well for the teachers' cause at all. Without public outcry, the teachers are pretty much stuck.
Lastly, the failure of teachers to see the incremental raise as part of the overall raise leads me to the budget cut discussion. It's funny when we hear about budget cuts. Especially when they're not a cut at all. Let's say I plan to increase spending on music 6% this year. Then I decide I'm only increasing my spending by 3% instead. Well, if I were the government, I would describe that as a cut. Even though I'm increasing my spending by 3%, it's still a cut because I'm not spending 6%.
That's a good ol' Democratic (and sometimes Republican) trick. When we hear stories about welfare "cuts" or school lunch "cuts," it's really just a decrease in the increased spending. Instead of increasing the spending by $100, we're increasing by $75 and that's a cut. It's just insane to look at things that way. Makes no sense.
Anyway, that's a different story...I'm working on my bracket and I'll have some picks ready by tonight or tomorrow. And I think I'm getting sick...my throat is killing me. We'll see how that goes.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Sorry Syracuse
Wow...I'm really surprised by the NCAA Tournament selections. I honestly didn't think West Virginia would get in so it wasn't a surprise to see them left out. However, seeing Syracuse left out was a major shock. Apparently the committee believed the Big East was down this year...that's the only reason I can think of that they wouldn't take at least 7 Big East teams. The 'Cuse did struggle at times this year but appeared to be poised to grab a spot in the Big Dance. Obviously, they're early exit from the Big East Tournament killed their chances.
The omission of Drexel could be the NCAA's biggest error. Despite nonconference wins at Syracuse, Villanova and Creighton as part of a profile that included 14 road/neutral wins, the Dragons likely were punished for their fourth-place finish in the CAA. Kansas State became the first major conference team in this era to end with 20-plus wins, 10-plus conference wins and a fourth-place or better finish in league play and miss the NCAAs. Not something to brag about.
As far as teams that did make the NCAA, I was surprised that Florida was the #1 overall. I felt Ohio State or Kansas had the best claim for the #1 overall. Their bracket is pretty open until the potentially face Wisconsin in the Elite 8.
North Carolina could face a fiesty (and underrated) Marquette in the 2nd round and Texas in the 3rd round. If they navigate their way through that mess, they end up with Georgetown in the Elite 8. Kansas could have a tough road with Kentucky or Villanova hanging out there. Ohio State appears to have the clearest road to the final four with their number 2 seed being Memphis. Memphis is good...but probably not the same as Georgetown, Wisconsin or UCLA.
Should be an interesting tournament. A little disappointed in some of the seeding and selections, but overall, they did a good job. Once the NIT bracket is out, I'll let you know what I think of West Virginia's chances in that tournament.
The omission of Drexel could be the NCAA's biggest error. Despite nonconference wins at Syracuse, Villanova and Creighton as part of a profile that included 14 road/neutral wins, the Dragons likely were punished for their fourth-place finish in the CAA. Kansas State became the first major conference team in this era to end with 20-plus wins, 10-plus conference wins and a fourth-place or better finish in league play and miss the NCAAs. Not something to brag about.
As far as teams that did make the NCAA, I was surprised that Florida was the #1 overall. I felt Ohio State or Kansas had the best claim for the #1 overall. Their bracket is pretty open until the potentially face Wisconsin in the Elite 8.
North Carolina could face a fiesty (and underrated) Marquette in the 2nd round and Texas in the 3rd round. If they navigate their way through that mess, they end up with Georgetown in the Elite 8. Kansas could have a tough road with Kentucky or Villanova hanging out there. Ohio State appears to have the clearest road to the final four with their number 2 seed being Memphis. Memphis is good...but probably not the same as Georgetown, Wisconsin or UCLA.
Should be an interesting tournament. A little disappointed in some of the seeding and selections, but overall, they did a good job. Once the NIT bracket is out, I'll let you know what I think of West Virginia's chances in that tournament.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Painfully Close
Louisville did it to West Virginia again. Well, a little different way of getting there but the result was the same...Louisville in overtime. West Virginia made the comeback this time though to get the game into double-overtime. But the result puts West Virginia in a bad situation. A record of 22-9 but an extremely weak out-of-conference schedule and a low RPI makes West Virginia a strong candidate for a #1 seed in the NIT, not a mid-range seed in the NCAA Tournament.
It was a good season for a team that was predicted for finished #12 in the Big East. I think I started out the season by saying that any post-season tournament appearance would have to be considered a success by the young Mountaineer squad. An NIT appearance would be a bonus. Well, the Mountaineers have definitely succeeded in the that but it feels more like defeat than victory. But, on the positive side, Frank Young and Rob Summers will most likely get to play in front of the home crowd again.
Second today, Daylight Savings Time. When the government changes something like when Daylight Savings Time begins and ends, it seems like a simple thing. Just change the clock forward or back whenever they tell you to. Well...let me tell you something, it's not that simple. Computers don't like it when you change something like DST. Remember Y2K? Well, this is Y2K on a much smaller scale.
We've spent much of this week patching servers and PCs. Microsoft did a good job getting patches out for Windows XP and Server 2003. For Server 2000 we had to do a little registry work to make sure they would update. On the other hand, Novell wasn't as nice. They didn't release a Groupwise patch until late Friday night. And it required some serious effort to get it installed on the GW servers.
Novell has also warned that synchronized devices (Blackberry, Palm, etc.) may experience some issues with the DST change, even though we patched those devices weeks ago. So, we've had to warn users to watch their appointments closely so they won't be an hour late. But, anyway, make sure you download the updates for your computer. If Automatic Updates is enabled, you probably already installed. If not, you might want to go ahead and get that...or you can manually change your time...but you'll have to do it again later. And I think that's all.
It was a good season for a team that was predicted for finished #12 in the Big East. I think I started out the season by saying that any post-season tournament appearance would have to be considered a success by the young Mountaineer squad. An NIT appearance would be a bonus. Well, the Mountaineers have definitely succeeded in the that but it feels more like defeat than victory. But, on the positive side, Frank Young and Rob Summers will most likely get to play in front of the home crowd again.
Second today, Daylight Savings Time. When the government changes something like when Daylight Savings Time begins and ends, it seems like a simple thing. Just change the clock forward or back whenever they tell you to. Well...let me tell you something, it's not that simple. Computers don't like it when you change something like DST. Remember Y2K? Well, this is Y2K on a much smaller scale.
We've spent much of this week patching servers and PCs. Microsoft did a good job getting patches out for Windows XP and Server 2003. For Server 2000 we had to do a little registry work to make sure they would update. On the other hand, Novell wasn't as nice. They didn't release a Groupwise patch until late Friday night. And it required some serious effort to get it installed on the GW servers.
Novell has also warned that synchronized devices (Blackberry, Palm, etc.) may experience some issues with the DST change, even though we patched those devices weeks ago. So, we've had to warn users to watch their appointments closely so they won't be an hour late. But, anyway, make sure you download the updates for your computer. If Automatic Updates is enabled, you probably already installed. If not, you might want to go ahead and get that...or you can manually change your time...but you'll have to do it again later. And I think that's all.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
One More Win
By most accounts, West Virginia must beat Louisville tonight to secure a bid to the NCAA Tournament. Otherwise, it looks like a #1 seed in the NIT...either way, it's been a season that has exceeded expectations. But you always want a little more.
The Mountaineers looked pretty good last night against Providence. Their shots were falling and anytime you make 17 3-pointers, there's a good chance your're walking away with the victory. The surprise of the game had to be the play of Wellington Smith off the bench. The freshman came in and played 10 good minutes for the Mountaineers after Da'Sean Butler fouled out.
Of course, first team All-Big East forward Frank Young led the Mountaineers. He must continue to play exemplary basketball to lead the Mountaineers over the Cardinals tonight. Alex Ruoff also stepped up big for the Mountaineers and he seems to have gotten his shot back. Good news for a Mountaineers run deep into this Big East Tournament.
The Cardinals are already locked in the NCAA Tournament. Pitino's Cardinals will pressure the Mountaineers full-court throughout a majority of the game. Louisville will also attempt to use their big men, David Padgett and Derrick Caracter (6'8", 265 lbs) to play physical on the inside with the Mountaineers. Summers and Smalligan are going to have to play tough to keep the Cardinals from pounding inside.
Should be a good game...a great rematch from the 2005 NCAA Tournament. If WVU knocks down 21 3-pointers and loses though...I will be heartbroken. Seriously...there will be tears.
The Mountaineers looked pretty good last night against Providence. Their shots were falling and anytime you make 17 3-pointers, there's a good chance your're walking away with the victory. The surprise of the game had to be the play of Wellington Smith off the bench. The freshman came in and played 10 good minutes for the Mountaineers after Da'Sean Butler fouled out.
Of course, first team All-Big East forward Frank Young led the Mountaineers. He must continue to play exemplary basketball to lead the Mountaineers over the Cardinals tonight. Alex Ruoff also stepped up big for the Mountaineers and he seems to have gotten his shot back. Good news for a Mountaineers run deep into this Big East Tournament.
The Cardinals are already locked in the NCAA Tournament. Pitino's Cardinals will pressure the Mountaineers full-court throughout a majority of the game. Louisville will also attempt to use their big men, David Padgett and Derrick Caracter (6'8", 265 lbs) to play physical on the inside with the Mountaineers. Summers and Smalligan are going to have to play tough to keep the Cardinals from pounding inside.
Should be a good game...a great rematch from the 2005 NCAA Tournament. If WVU knocks down 21 3-pointers and loses though...I will be heartbroken. Seriously...there will be tears.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
John Edward - Hypocrite
John Edwards: "I think that Jesus would be disappointed in our ignoring the plight of those around us who are suffering and our focus on our own selfish, short-term needs. I think he'd be appalled, actually."
John Edwards, a man who obviously knows what Jesus would think and is disappointed by people who are "selfish" owns a 2,800-square foot beach house on Figure Eight Island near Wilmington. The valuation on this beach house is $2.6 million.
So, Edwards, who owns a $2.6 million dollar beach house is going to lecture the American public on selfishness. Let me say this...if Edwards can afford it, more power to him. Spending is what makes the economy work and someone needs to buy the $2.6 million dollar beach houses. But, to make such a purchase and then lecture others on being selfish is pure hypocrisy.
The Edwards claim to donate 8.6% of their income to charity...which is very nice. But to lecture others on being selfish is just insane. The average American gives around 3% which is what they can afford. But the average American can't afford a $2.6 million dollar beach house. But, all things considered, Americans are very generous with their money. And it is very unfair of Edwards to paint a broad picture by saying "Jesus would be disappointed..."
Anyway, in other news, I hate static electricity. My pants are stuck to my legs and I might as well be wearing spandex. It's not good. There's just really nothing good that can be done about it...
Alright, that's about it. Oh...teachers, yada yada yada...everyone yawned. Manchin apparently wasn't overly moved by the walkout. And Mon County is out due to snow today.
John Edwards, a man who obviously knows what Jesus would think and is disappointed by people who are "selfish" owns a 2,800-square foot beach house on Figure Eight Island near Wilmington. The valuation on this beach house is $2.6 million.
So, Edwards, who owns a $2.6 million dollar beach house is going to lecture the American public on selfishness. Let me say this...if Edwards can afford it, more power to him. Spending is what makes the economy work and someone needs to buy the $2.6 million dollar beach houses. But, to make such a purchase and then lecture others on being selfish is pure hypocrisy.
The Edwards claim to donate 8.6% of their income to charity...which is very nice. But to lecture others on being selfish is just insane. The average American gives around 3% which is what they can afford. But the average American can't afford a $2.6 million dollar beach house. But, all things considered, Americans are very generous with their money. And it is very unfair of Edwards to paint a broad picture by saying "Jesus would be disappointed..."
Anyway, in other news, I hate static electricity. My pants are stuck to my legs and I might as well be wearing spandex. It's not good. There's just really nothing good that can be done about it...
Alright, that's about it. Oh...teachers, yada yada yada...everyone yawned. Manchin apparently wasn't overly moved by the walkout. And Mon County is out due to snow today.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Teacher Strike?
We might just be on the verge of a statewide teacher strike if the teachers don't get the 6% pay raise they have been seeking. Joe Manchin requested a 2.5% raise for teachers while the West Virginia House of Delegates has proposed a 3.5%. Most people think it will probably be 3% to 3.5%. The WVEA is requesting a flat 6 percent increase, while AFTWV is requesting $5,000 across the board.
Personally, I don't think the teachers will strike. I don't see any situation where the two teachers' unions (The West Virginia Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers) are going to be able to coordinate their plans. This weekend is proof they are on their own agenda...both fighting for their own causes. Two separate rallies...the teachers have no unity.
Second, how many teachers can truly afford a long and nasty strike? Manchin doesn't seem phased by the strike talk. He's still sticking with is 2.5% proposal. He knows teachers are divided and can't handle the strike. Why should he change?
Third, when is this strike going to occur? The legislature breaks March 10th. What would a strike really accomplish after that? The time for a unified stand by the teachers has come and gone. It's too late.
Lastly, there doesn't seem to be much public support for the teachers. The news has barely covered their rallies and I haven't heard any real rumblings from the public. If the general public isn't going to stand up for the teachers, the teachers don't stand a chance.
Personally, the teachers do deserve more money. I thought all this gambling money was supposed to go to schools, teachers, etc. Obviously, the WV Legislature and Governor Manchin are misusing those funds. We talk about wanting the kids to be better educated but we won't invest in that education. Surely a long term deal could be met...perhaps 3.5% this year with a guarantee of 3.5% next year too? Regardless of what happens, I don't see a strike in the teachers' future.
Personally, I don't think the teachers will strike. I don't see any situation where the two teachers' unions (The West Virginia Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers) are going to be able to coordinate their plans. This weekend is proof they are on their own agenda...both fighting for their own causes. Two separate rallies...the teachers have no unity.
Second, how many teachers can truly afford a long and nasty strike? Manchin doesn't seem phased by the strike talk. He's still sticking with is 2.5% proposal. He knows teachers are divided and can't handle the strike. Why should he change?
Third, when is this strike going to occur? The legislature breaks March 10th. What would a strike really accomplish after that? The time for a unified stand by the teachers has come and gone. It's too late.
Lastly, there doesn't seem to be much public support for the teachers. The news has barely covered their rallies and I haven't heard any real rumblings from the public. If the general public isn't going to stand up for the teachers, the teachers don't stand a chance.
Personally, the teachers do deserve more money. I thought all this gambling money was supposed to go to schools, teachers, etc. Obviously, the WV Legislature and Governor Manchin are misusing those funds. We talk about wanting the kids to be better educated but we won't invest in that education. Surely a long term deal could be met...perhaps 3.5% this year with a guarantee of 3.5% next year too? Regardless of what happens, I don't see a strike in the teachers' future.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
The Al Gore Effect
Global warming is the only thing Al Gore has going for him. This supposed warming of the earth caused by humans is the only thing that keeps Algore from disappearing from the headlines. And so Gore travels the country telling people not to drive their cars or search for alternative means of living because he believes that humans are destroying the earth. And while he travels and preaches suffering for man, Gore uses 20-times the energy of the average household. So, what's that say about Al Gore? Why should I cut back when "Green Man" himself refuses to do so?
Personally, I don't believe the whole global warming argument. And their are plenty of scientists out there who try to debunk the myth but they are ridiculed and ignored and disgraced by the agenda of global warming. And, believe me, there is an agenda out there being advanced by the global warming crowd. A documentary will soon air in the UK which will attack the "lies" advanced by the global warming theorists.
But my question is this: How arrogant is Al Gore and the global warming crowd? Humans might destroy humans...but humans will not destroy the Earth. I would write such, but I think Charlton Heston said it better than I ever could:
"Earth is four-and-a-half-billion-years-old. There's been life on it for nearly that long, 3.8 billion years. Bacteria first; later the first multicellular life, then the first complex creatures in the sea, on the land. Then finally the great sweeping ages of animals, the amphibians, the dinosaurs, at last the mammals, each one enduring millions on millions of years, great dynasties of creatures rising, flourishing, dying away -- all this against a background of continuous and violent upheaval. Mountain ranges thrust up, eroded away, cometary impacts, volcano eruptions, oceans rising and falling, whole continents moving, an endless, constant, violent change, colliding, buckling to make mountains over millions of years. Earth has survived everything in its time.
It will certainly survive us. If all the nuclear weapons in the world went off at once and all the plants, all the animals died and the earth was sizzling hot for a hundred thousand years, life would survive, somewhere: under the soil, frozen in arctic ice. Sooner or later, when the planet was no longer inhospitable, life would spread again. The evolutionary process would begin again. Might take a few billion years for life to regain its present variety. Of course, it would be very different from what it is now, but the earth would survive our folly, only we would not. If the ozone layer gets thinner, ultraviolet radiation sears earth, so what? Ultraviolet radiation is good for life. It's powerful energy. It promotes mutation, change. Many forms of life will thrive with more UV radiation. Many others will die out. You think this is the first time that's happened? Think about oxygen. Necessary for life now, but oxygen is actually a metabolic poison, a corrosive glass, like fluorine.
When oxygen was first produced as a waste product by certain plant cells some three billion years ago, it created a crisis for all other life on earth. Those plants were polluting the environment, exhaling a lethal gas. Earth eventually had an atmosphere incompatible with life. Nevertheless, life on earth took care of itself. In the thinking of the human being a hundred years is a long time. Hundred years ago we didn't have cars, airplanes, computers or vaccines. It was a whole different world, but to the earth, a hundred years is nothing. A million years is nothing. This planet lives and breathes on a much vaster scale. We can't imagine its slow and powerful rhythms, and we haven't got the humility to try. We've been residents here for the blink of an eye. If we're gone tomorrow, the earth will not miss us."
Amen.
Personally, I don't believe the whole global warming argument. And their are plenty of scientists out there who try to debunk the myth but they are ridiculed and ignored and disgraced by the agenda of global warming. And, believe me, there is an agenda out there being advanced by the global warming crowd. A documentary will soon air in the UK which will attack the "lies" advanced by the global warming theorists.
But my question is this: How arrogant is Al Gore and the global warming crowd? Humans might destroy humans...but humans will not destroy the Earth. I would write such, but I think Charlton Heston said it better than I ever could:
"Earth is four-and-a-half-billion-years-old. There's been life on it for nearly that long, 3.8 billion years. Bacteria first; later the first multicellular life, then the first complex creatures in the sea, on the land. Then finally the great sweeping ages of animals, the amphibians, the dinosaurs, at last the mammals, each one enduring millions on millions of years, great dynasties of creatures rising, flourishing, dying away -- all this against a background of continuous and violent upheaval. Mountain ranges thrust up, eroded away, cometary impacts, volcano eruptions, oceans rising and falling, whole continents moving, an endless, constant, violent change, colliding, buckling to make mountains over millions of years. Earth has survived everything in its time.
It will certainly survive us. If all the nuclear weapons in the world went off at once and all the plants, all the animals died and the earth was sizzling hot for a hundred thousand years, life would survive, somewhere: under the soil, frozen in arctic ice. Sooner or later, when the planet was no longer inhospitable, life would spread again. The evolutionary process would begin again. Might take a few billion years for life to regain its present variety. Of course, it would be very different from what it is now, but the earth would survive our folly, only we would not. If the ozone layer gets thinner, ultraviolet radiation sears earth, so what? Ultraviolet radiation is good for life. It's powerful energy. It promotes mutation, change. Many forms of life will thrive with more UV radiation. Many others will die out. You think this is the first time that's happened? Think about oxygen. Necessary for life now, but oxygen is actually a metabolic poison, a corrosive glass, like fluorine.
When oxygen was first produced as a waste product by certain plant cells some three billion years ago, it created a crisis for all other life on earth. Those plants were polluting the environment, exhaling a lethal gas. Earth eventually had an atmosphere incompatible with life. Nevertheless, life on earth took care of itself. In the thinking of the human being a hundred years is a long time. Hundred years ago we didn't have cars, airplanes, computers or vaccines. It was a whole different world, but to the earth, a hundred years is nothing. A million years is nothing. This planet lives and breathes on a much vaster scale. We can't imagine its slow and powerful rhythms, and we haven't got the humility to try. We've been residents here for the blink of an eye. If we're gone tomorrow, the earth will not miss us."
Amen.
Friday, March 02, 2007
A New Venture, Etc.
First off, I encourage everyone to go visit and register and participate at http://www.collegesportslivehere.com/ -- which is a new venture for college sports arguments....err, discussion.
Next, I am very upset with the Tarheels. Why are they not feeding Hansbrough the ball? He should possess the ball on 75% of all North Carolina offensive possessions...even if he just throws the ball back to Frasor or Wright. He's a beast under the basket so I just don't get why he's not getting the touches he should.
Third, haven't had much time to write good things because of work. We acquired 4 new HP DL380 servers over the last week which needed licensed, setup and installed for use. It was quite a chore. And it's only the beginning. The biggest part of this is still 2-3 months away...
Lastly, with new water problems, I will begin a new investigation into where Fairmont's missing water could be. The water is somewhere and I will make it my mission to find it and bring the answer to my captive audience. Don't worry...I am on the case!
Next, I am very upset with the Tarheels. Why are they not feeding Hansbrough the ball? He should possess the ball on 75% of all North Carolina offensive possessions...even if he just throws the ball back to Frasor or Wright. He's a beast under the basket so I just don't get why he's not getting the touches he should.
Third, haven't had much time to write good things because of work. We acquired 4 new HP DL380 servers over the last week which needed licensed, setup and installed for use. It was quite a chore. And it's only the beginning. The biggest part of this is still 2-3 months away...
Lastly, with new water problems, I will begin a new investigation into where Fairmont's missing water could be. The water is somewhere and I will make it my mission to find it and bring the answer to my captive audience. Don't worry...I am on the case!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
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