While trying to determine the odds of the deer I saw running through my neighborhood this a.m., actually seeing tomorrow...

I've been watching women's sports for a long time. The US Women's Soccer team is the better team. But, jeezy creezy, if you blow a game like they did today, you gotta take the heat like the men do. Instead we are treated to platitudes like Bob Ley insisting that some "were already calling it a classic". How? Why?

Is it the resiliency of Japan or the fact that the US was up twice and gave up goals late in the second half and also in the second half of added time. Good teams don't let that happen. So, they go to Penalty Kicks and the Japan keeper is getting all the credit, while I see the US having two terrible PKs to start. On the broadcast, it seemed the third US PK was somehow deemed as not good, but that clearly was a good save by the Japan keeper.

Meanwhile, Hope Solo makes one save out of four tries and in the highlights after that save, Brandi Chastain makes this statement after the match, "Hope Solo does what Hope Solo does...makes saves!" WTF? Did you just see her make only one save of four? And did you notice the ref was having none of Solo's PK shenanigans this time around, actually ordering her on to the pitch before the first US PK.

And the US coach needs to come under some scrutiny, as well. Against Brazil, her PK lineup was Boxx, Lloyd, Rapinoe, Wambach, Krieger. Today, for some unknown reason, she pulled Rapinoe in the latter stages of extra time and did not have Alex Morgan in the lineup, who has been consistently on target with her shots and scored the first US goal and assisted on the other.

So, today's lineup was Boxx with a not-so-good first attempt that was saved. Lloyd, who air-mailed the goal. Heath, who had only subbed for Rapinoe in the 114th minute, had a good attempt blocked, but I think Morgan deserved that spot. Wambach nailed her attempt and I'm not sure who Number 5 would have been.

But we don't get any of that breakdown. No, we're allegedly teaching the world to sing tonight and we'd like to buy it a Coke. Bah!

"It's The World Cup, Bro!"



Meal of Links

This was one thing that was hard to figure about the Murdoch controversy. He put Rebekah Brooks in charge of the internal investigation when she was in charge at NOTW. She resigned last week and has now been arrested.

Terrence Malick had been thinking of "The Tree Of Life" for some time. Like since 1979. You actually see some of these early thoughts in the current movie.

This is rather odd. In Taiwan, they have stripping at funerals.

Ron Howard has finally stopped wearing a hat. It was getting ridiculous.

A pretty fair look at John Kerry. And the role he plays in our foreign policy.

Exercise Yard

Indians lost their second in a row to Baltimore. Now they head to the Twin Cities for 4 games. Have you noticed the Twins lately? They are only 5 games back.

Even Tiger refers to this series with his favorite word: "Huge."

Visitor

None, on a warm Sunday.

I was coming back from Best Friend's last night and saw something that I had heard about, read about, but had not yet seen. I somehow missed it going eastbound on 90 because I must have been distracted by some music.

But it was late and I'm paying attention to the road when out of the corner of my eye, I see it. At first, jeezy creezy, I didn't know what it was and it scared the living daylights out of me. After thinking I was hallucinating, I realized what it was...

It was that damn wind turbine at Lincoln Electric! WTF, that thing is huge. It makes that one at the junkyard off of 480 look like a damn TinkerToy.

Meal of Links

Myspace. What an epic fail

The new Florida? It may be Wisconsin.

There is a new "Harry Potter" movie coming out soon. Will it make money? Beware the accounting.

How to land your kid in therapy. Most kids do not learn the skills of perseverance, resiliency, and reality-testing.

Regrets from the dying. Definitely things to consider.

The most connected city in the world? Seoul, brother.

Exercise Yard

River Plate is one of the most successful soccer clubs in Argentina. A 33-time champion. Things were OK, until they got relegated. Let the riots begin!

With water cannons!



Visitor

None, on a nice summer Sunday.

It's probably time to start talking about the Indians. I have them pegged at 75 wins this year and I've seen some things since the start of the year that may cause a bit of a spike above that, but they are certainly not going to contend for anything. Realistically, you have to throw out this recent sweep of Seattle, simply because the Mariners don't hit. Great that the Indians took care of business out there, but let's not go overboard. They didn't have to face King Felix.

And could you believe Wedge's pet, Chris Gimenez, caught today's game for Seattle? "Seattle Mariners manager Eric Wedge said Friday, April 8, that he picked C Chris Gimenez over C Josh Bard as an injury replacement for C Adam Moore (knee) due to his versatility, reports Geoff Baker, of The Seattle Times. "The biggest part of that was just his versatility, the fact he can play multiple positions for us right now," Wedge said. "That entered into it as much as anything. I was really impressed with what I saw of him this spring." This demonstrates one of my biggest pet peeves in baseball, in general, of Eric Wedge, in particular. Sure, Gimenez is versatile, but weakens virtually every position he plays by his inability to hit major league pitching, as his .160 career batting average would attest.

Hitting-wise, I know no one wants to believe it, but Travis Hafner is starting to drive the ball again. He's OPSing like it's 2006 again. The fact that he did the Indians a solid by getting into better shape this year, may go a long way in determining their season. I'm happy with what I've seen from him.

Orlando Cabrera seems to be a good pickup. I thought this was a good late off-season move by Chris Antonetti. Seems motivated and provides that good veterean presence. How come no one told me he's old "Pretzel Boy" Jolbert Cabrera's brother? He's off to a good start, as is most everyone in the lineup. Shin-Soo Choo is coming out of it, but Travis Buck's playing time will evaporate, once Grady Sizemore returns.

Let's face it, Jack Hannahan won't be hitting like this all year. I'm still waitin' for The Chiz to get the callup. But Asdrubal Cabrera, Carlos Santana and Matt LaPorta haven't embarrassed themselves at bat so far, so it looks like the strength of the club may be the hitting.

Walks are up, as are strikeouts. But they rank 3rd in hitting, and 2nd in On-Base %. Wahoo Baseball is the way to go, because slugging only ranks 7th.

Pitching. Ah, pitching. If only I had a crystal ball. All starters in their mid-20s. We've seen gems from Carmona, Carrasco and Masterson, thus far. But we've also seen a bad Carmona start, and iffy starts from Carrasco and Tomlin. That's what you're gonna get this year. If Masterson doesn't have two whole months of awful like 2010, they'll be a more solid core. But far from dominant.

I thought the relief corps was top-notch last year. Rafael Perez saved his career and Chris Perez became a reliable closer. The cast of thousands filled in rather nicely, as well. This year, Tony Sipp is playing a prominent 8th inning role.

So far, they are 4th in strikeouts and have given up only 3 home runs. And they've given up less hits than innings pitched (Thanks, Seattle). Plus, only 5 errors in 8 games.

Probably gonna take til the end of the month to really formulate an opinion of where they'll end up. I'm liking what I've seen, thus far, but there is a long way to go.

More from DiaTribe.

Meal of Links

Joe Pos talks about Manny, the best hitter I ever saw. Why do I feel like he'll show up playing somewhere with the name of "Brown"?

10 online destinations that know a lot about you. Most of those you know already.

China bites back. Say, that kinda hurt.

This guy, I think, has the perfect approach to dying. Hey, if you don't want to make a fuss while you're living, why would you want that on the way out?

BTW, the Kentucky Derby underwent a big change yetesterday. As Uncle Mo lost the Wood Memorial.

Exercise Yard

Great to see Tiger Woods in the thick of it at the Masters. Unfortunately, he wasn't even close to matching his front nine magic on the backside. Probably was too much to ask.

So many people, excluding FIGJAM, had a chance at this one. Probably not the best ever, but certainly the most fun.

Visitor

None, on a really warm Sunday.

Not sure about the Storm of the Century. If there is one thing I've learned from Dick Goddard, it's when you're on the Southeast side of a Panhandle Hook, that's a good thing. And we lucked out, as the snow line seems to be going to our West.

I thought I was going to have to work from home today, but that looks more likely to happen tomorrow. I had more snow than I thought we'd get last night, around 6 inches. But after shoveling, I realized it wasn't snowing, wasn't that cold and there was a long window of not much weather happening, I decided to go in.

The ride took 60 minutes, which is 1.5x longer than normal. My Cleveland street was untouched. Brooklyn apparently won't pay its workers OT for snow removal. 480 was a disaster. 77 was decent. The turnpike was pristine. Route 8 was in fine condition.

A plow did arrive this afternoon. Dumping all of that snow into everyone's driveway. There has to be an invention out there, where that doesn't happen.

So, now it's "Ice Ice Baby" from here on out.

Meal of Links

I always thought there was something, I don't know, disingenuous about the VISA ads with the four guys who never miss a Super Bowl. Did you know the NFL sells them their tickets?

A new book looks at the early history of National Lampoon. A talk with an artist.

Comparing the Steelers and Packers. Both teams have no cheerleaders.

Accidents can happen. A list of odd deaths.

"Exit Through The Gift Shop" is streaming on Hulu. It's Oscar-nominated.

The 50 Most Controversial Films. They pretty much nailed the list. Many of these were actually protested, including the No. 1, "The Last Temptation Of Christ".

He is most interesting. "Stay thirsty, my friends."

Dog? Or colonoscopy?

Robert Osborne has my dream job. I love the guy. He and Alec Baldwin restart "The Essentials" in March.

Ask Men reveals its Top 99 Women. My litmus test on these lists is Kate Beckinsale. This year, she's 14. OK, I'll live with that.

More Beck Bullshit (with multiple blackboards)



Exercise Yard

Soccer's transfer window ended last night and it was insane. There was a record amount of money spent and even Randy Lerner was in on it.

Visitor

34 Across: Pop music's Lady ____ (4 letters) Answer: Gaga

Well, I think everyone got the best of both worlds for the Super Bowl as it wound up Green Bay and Pittsburgh. Both games today should really not have been as close as they turned out. Green Bay started failing to convert several third and shorts and allowed Chicago to hang around way too long. Even with a gift interception for a TD, the Packers allowed the Bears to get right back in it.

As for the Steelers, that game should have been over at the half. The Jets failure to score after a lengthy 4th quarter drive destroyed any chance they had, even after they got a quick safety as a followup. I actually gained much respect for the Jets for not folding at the half. The Steelers made way too many mistakes with the ball in the second half to keep the Jets in it.

The Super Bowl got a terrific matchup with about as many angles as the press needs for the buildup to the game.

Meal of Links

I took advantage of the late NFL starts today to see "The Fighter". It's the well-documented story of the boxer Micky Ward and his crack-addicted trainer, Dick Eklund, who is also his brother. Yeah, it's a boxing movie, so I had to see it.

The boxing sequences almost bordered on lame here. Really nothing memorable. You get an over-the-top performance from Melissa Leo as Ward's mother, who also served as his business manager for a time. Basically Ward was the family corporation and the movie details how his career got better when he got better management, meaning Leo had to take a backseat.

Christian Bale as Eklund is the gem here, as always. Like the young DeNiro, he immerses himself in any character he plays. Gets the crack addict persona down, with almost as much weight loss as he had for "The Machinist". You cannot believe this is the same guy that plays the Dark Knight. Mark Wahlberg as Ward is kinda so-so. I thought he didn't come close to demonstrating how tough of a fighter Ward was. And Amy Adams gets a sassy role for a change.

I expected better here. Ward himself says over the closing credits that he was glad the filming of the movie was finally over, as if he was tired of reliving his past. It's a decent enough tale, but somehow the movie went off the tracks just enough to not put it into the must-see category. Curiously, the movie ignores Ward's greatest triumphs a a boxer, the Ward-Gatti Trilogy. With the strange circumstances of his death, maybe that will be detailed in the Arturo Gatti Story.

Jack LaLanne finally unplugged his juicer. He was 96 and quite a fascinating individual.

Now we know the reason (well, 4.6 million of 'em) Baby Doc went back to Haiti. Straight cash, homey.

Exercise Yard

Yesterday, a pro bowler shot 100 in a televised match. It was the lowest score ever by a professional on TV. His opponent? He shot a 299.

Visitor

None, on a really cold Sunday.

Hey, it's still snowing. Today was, by far, the worst snow of this event that started on Sunday. I hardly got any before this. But this a.m., I-77 wasn't even touched as the white-outs started. Got better further to the South, but that corridor from Pleasant Valley up to 82 was pretty bad.

On the drive home, I actually saw the sun for some fleeting moments. But no snow until what appeared to be the boundary, which was 480. And that wasn't that bad until you passed the Jennings. But I was right on the edge, a mile to my South seemed fine, but the further North you went, it was more snow.

Meal of Links

Connie Schultz "is on assignment". But she writes about the death of Elizabeth Edwards.

Wouldn't you like to watch first-run movies the day they are released, on a super-cool system? You got it. It's pricey.

Bananas. Good for the colon. Geez, Ugandans eat a lot of bananas.

It's Christmas. How 'bout a cookbook?

Top 10 Female Detectives. Lisbeth Salander makes the list.

John Lennon died 30 years ago today. And Howard Cosell broke the news to America.

Sex toy ads on TV. Haven't seen one yet.

Exercise Yard

Why does modern sports announcing suck? God, does it.

Locally, we have a sports talk station whose flagship show doesn't talk sports. Or fails miserably at it when they do. I never listen to the Browns radio team. The names "Homer Tom" and "Homer Mike" give you all the info you need on the Tribe. Joe Tait has lost a bit on the fastball, but is still an all-timer, when healthy. STO baseball may be the worst. I think Al Pawlowski is inserted in these broadcasts to prevent Rick Manning from tossing Matt Underwood out of the booth.

There is a commenter here though who nails it.

He brings up some of the underrated football broadcast teams of the past:

Dick Enberg-Merlin Olsen. From the era when they would play Haircut 100 leading into a commercial.

Pat Summerall-Tom Brookshier. Just to hear Brookshier say the name, "Diron Talbert" one more time. Redskins-Cowboys 4:00 Sunday game. Appointment TV.

Charlie Jones-Len Dawson. Before modern technology came on-screen, Jones was the best clock and down-and-distance guy in the booth.

Don Criqui-John Brodie/Bob Trumpy. Criqui is still at it, but the '80s were big for him, as NBC's number 2 guy. Classic Browns games in that era with Trumpy, including the Jet playoff game.

Today's guys:

I like Kevin Harlan on just about anything. Did the Final Four on radio last year and was terrific.

Much like Harlan, Gus Johnson is the man. Should work every night of the year and even do bowling.

MLB Network has long surpassed ESPN's "Baseball Tonight". Roger Goodell wishes NFL Network was this good. And NBA TV is getting better.

There are some others and when I have more time, I'll get to them.

Visitor

59 Across: Former CNN anchor Dobbs (3 letters) Answer: Lou

Yesterday was another trip to the Circleville Pumpkin Show. That is a true slice of Americana. Crowded once more and just a terrific fall day with the temp nearing 70 and not a cloud in the sky. The day started off to meet Mr. Mix at the local Tim Hortons. I'd drive 150 miles for one of those Butter Caramel Smoothies. Wait a minute, I think I just did.

This year's largest pumpkin checked in at 1622 pounds.




















It was grown by the guy they call "Doctor Pumpkin". He is near the top of the standings each year and this was his 4th straight win. I don't know if you knew this, but 2010 was a bad year for growing large pumpkins. It's the heat that is a killer. Combined with dampness, well, let's just say a lot of pumpkins didn't survive.

It's hard to believe that the first 1,000-pounder at Circleville was in 2004, so the last few years, they are getting some really large pumpkins. I know last year, rumor was there was one with world record potential. This time around, it was good to see a newcomer in second place with an 1150-pounder right out of the gate. So, maybe there will be some competition for the top spot.

But it's a great day for pumpkins in the heart of Republican country. The street preacher is still preachin' and this year, you could sign a petition to stop mandated healthcare.

The food is still terrific. You can get Pumpkin "Just About Anything". Sloppy Joes, donuts, chili, ice cream, coffee, burgers, etc. Plus the Midway is full of Throw-Up Rides!

Remember, it starts the third Wednesday of October every year. Good times, people.

Meal of Links

Not a happy topic, but interesting nonetheless. What it feels like to want to kill yourself.

Donal Logue and Michael Raymond-James talk about "Terriers". This week featured an appearance of a newer version of the Lone Gunmen. "Why are Finnish people so good at Halo 3?"

Famous screams. Yes, Shatner made it.

R.I.P Chips Cunningham



The one and only Patsy Cline. All the hits are here.

The moon has more water than we thought. Lots of it.

GOP sources blast Palin. Campaign stories, for sure, but the timing here is sorta odd.

A conversation with Hal Hartley. Reminds me, I haven't seen "Simple Men" in a while.

Exercise Yard

The guy who invented the Rally Monkey is out of work. So, he's selling his World Series ring. Best quote in the article: "Monkeys are funny." And that's how a legend was born.

Visitor

5 Down: 1980s-'90s slugger Fielder (5 letters) Answer: Cecil

Now, here's a contest we can all get behind. Consumerist.com is looking for the worst ads in America. The great thing is the links take you right to the commercial.

Look at these categories:

Absolute Worst Ad in America

Most Grating Performance By A Human Being

Most Annoying Animated Spokesthing

Duo Or Group That Most Needs To Be Broken Up

Celebrity Who Must Have Lost The Most Money In Housing Crash

Creepiest Commercial

Many of my "favorites" are included. Flo and the Agreeing (or should I say Annoying) Guy. The State Farm Guy, too! I was talking during last week's Browns game how I can take the good insurance ads: The Funny Lizard, President Palmer and abhor the bad ones: Flo, State Farm Guy. And I even dig Mayhem!

I am surprised that the Ed Burns Guy from 5-Hour Energy didn't make it. But his sub, the "2:30 Guy", did.

The jerkface McDonald's guy who hasn't had his coffee was nominated. Sadly, that one was in heavy rotation this past weekend.

Jimmy Johnson may be OK on "Survivor". But on those Extenze commercials, he makes me a tad uncomfortable.

I know Jamie Lee Curtis shills for Actvia. But I'm not sure I wanna know what's in that product.

And then, there's that "low price" Staples campaign. Sheesh.

Meal of Links

Tim Goodman hates "Shit My Dad Says". Calls it unwatchable. The Toronto Sun is pining for the GEICO Cavemen series to return. That's how bad this is.

They foreclosed on this Florida guy. Wait a minute though, he didn't have a mortgage.

Woody Paige has some wise words after the suicide of Bronco wide receiver Kenny McKinley. You see, Paige wanted to kill himself a while back.

Nate Silver has the latest senate polls up. His prediction is 52 Democrats after the election. But the R's will take over the House.

Paste lists the 40 Best Little Radio Stations in America. Locally, WAPS 91.3, The Summit, makes it.

Exercise Yard

The bad economics of European soccer. "Huge debt, cash crunches, mismanagement -- all the warning signs are there of an economic collapse, of the dominoes falling." Yikes!

Visitor

10 Down: Jessica of "Sin City" (4 letters) Answer: Alba

Hope you got to see another "30 For 30" tonight on George Steinbrenner by the great Barbara Kopple. Images of Thurman Munson abound. As usual, Kopple did not shy away from some topics (ticket prices for example) in the film. Really good stuff.

Upcoming topics include:

9/28 Terry Fox (this Steve Nash film premiered at TIFF last week).
10/5 Red Sox-Yankees 2004
10/12 Drazen Petrovic/Vlade Divac
10/19 Tim Richmond
10/26 Bartman
11/2 Marion Jones
11/9 SMU

And I think that finishes it up. Can't say enough about the series. It ranks with the best ESPN has offered over the years.

Meal of Links

Mmmmm. Peanut butter.

We haven't even seen the first episode of the new season of "Community". But we are already talking about their Christmas episode.

Leonard Skinner died. And if you have to ask, well...

Do not mess with "The King of Kong". The Wiebe-Mitchell rivalry is one of the greatest ever.

Save the gibbon! Many species are nearing extinction.

I saw a bit of "Annie Hall" last night. This scene kills me. "What am I, your son?".

"Annie Hall" Spider Scene



Lyle Lovett is returning to acting in "Castle". But, here's a look at his music. It's stuff you don't hear very often. "If I Had A Boat" gets some love. As does the terrific "L.A County". But I absolutely love his version of "Tennessee Flat Top Box".

"Tennessee Flat Top Box"/Lyle Lovett with Raul Malo and The Mavericks



"Don't Ask Don't Tell" failed today for the estimated 48,000 gays still in the military.. The WSJ had an impressive column on why conservatives should vote for repeal. Costs $42,000 to honorably discharge someone and they have booted out 14,000 gays from the military. That's a cost of almost $600 million.

This is another reason to get your dander up. Tim Geithner wins as Larry Summers announced today he is leaving his post at the White House. And that's a good thing. But President Obama's new Budget Director is Jacob Lew, Clinton's old Budget Director. Lew is part of the Summers/Robert Rubin gang who wanted the repeal Glass-Steagall, and led us into this economic mess. So, our President cannot possibly replace Summers with a Wall Street guy, can he? Let's hope not.

Exercise Yard

Mo Williams contemplated retirement after LeBron left. Wow, that's not a reaction I wanted to hear.

Visitor

10 Across: Country music pioneer Ernest (4 letters) Answer: Tubb

I had one of those decisions last night that can be only decided by The Ethicist. I had to run up to the local Marc's last night and when I pulled into my space, I noticed there was a guy parked there in the spot next to me. Didn't get a good look at him, but his car was running, air was on, and his lights were on.

For some reason, I had a helluva time finding the Orlando Texas Toast that was on sale. Doh! It was near the TJ Farms Sausage Links I had tossed into my cart about 15 minutes earlier. Anyhow, when I get outside, I notice it's gotten darker, not sure it was sunset time yet.

So, I start loading things into my car and I notice the guy is sleeping (maybe?) in the car. He's been in the car now, what, at least 25 minutes (Yeah, I shucked corn at Marc's). So, do I have to tap on the window to make sure he hasn't expired or do I just go about my business and leave?

I left.

Meal of Links

OK. Let's all move to Belize. Looks like fun.

The healthiest fast food breakfasts. Just remember, it's English muffin, not bagel.

Roger Ebert on Hitch. Great writer on great writer.

Kinda glad I didn't buy tickets to the World Cup. FIFA employee sells info on 60,000 people (including passport numbers) to the Black Market. Oh, boy.

I'm already done with the JetBlue guy. First of all, his story doesn't seem to make sense. And for all of his "Take This Job And Shove It" praise heaped on him, he wants his job back. It's over! I think it was over quite early for me, when I started seeing things like, "Who Would Play Him In A Movie?" crap. When there can be only one.

This guy ended his relationship with Blackberry. Oddly enough, today I chose to continue mine with a phone upgrade.

Exercise Yard

Quick Browns thoughts while watching our future neighbors late in the game:

Loved the Invisible Monkey ad for Dodge.

Syndric Steptoe is the Browns version of "The Thing That Wouldn't Leave".

First team offense looked OK, as did Seneca Wallace. Delhomme looked sharp.

On defense, the two standouts were T.J. Ward, who impressed me and "McMahon, I don't impress that easily." Looked to be more than a hitter. Seemed to be a very good tackler (not a hitter, actually wrapped up guys) and did not really get run over on the Packers first TD. Got beat with decent coverage on the second TD for Green Bay, but he had to cover a wideout. I thought he looked very good. The other was Marcus Benard, who was playing against second and third teamers, but took advantage as he should. Joe Haden also got some props on the broadcast (and I'm wondering why), but I thought Ward outclassed everyone.

Colt McCoy looked below average. His fade that got picked off before the half was HORRIBLE. It would be charitable to call that Quinn-like.

Broken record time: Linebackers looked slow.

Phil Dawson crushed a 59-yard field goal to tie it late and then won it even later with another 46-yarder.

Browns win, 27-24.

Randy Lerner's Other Team had a coach resign this week and the team came up with a 3-0 win earlier today.

I was in soccer mode this a.m. as Tottenham and Man City had a very entertaining 0-0 battle. Then the Villa game, as their fans were singing, "There's only one Randy Lerner!". Could you imagine hearing that at the Stadium?

Villa Highlights (In French)



Tomorrow is a biggie: Liverpool and Arsenal.

Visitor

50 Across: "Mr. Television" (11 letters) Answer: Milton Berle

My Dad and I had a Steaks and Stakes Day today. After we lopped off some renegade stems in one of my bushes in the front yard (He had the Arte Johnson role of separating the leaves, while I had the Steve McQueen cutting the chain link fence role), we had some steaks.

My Dad buys these huge steaks from Buehler's every once in a while and they can be insanely cheap at times. Good cuts, too. They can't tip over the Flintstone car, but close. One more thing about Buehler's, you cannot beat their sale price on muffins at 79 cents every Wednesday. Anyhow, we fired up the grill and then stuffed ourselves.

Then it was on to horse racing. We watched an odds-on Baffert horse, Concord Point, win the West Virginia Derby and saw Blame (file him away for Breeders Cup Day) win the Whitney at Saratoga over Quality Road.

Time for a nap.

Meal of Links

The World Sauna Championships have ended in tragedy. First of all, I never knew they had World Sauna Championships. The winner is the one who can withstand 110 Degrees C the longest. Of course, some guy died.

Stuff about that other hand. You know, the left one.

I heard "Soul Man" yesterday and was thinking about "Play it, Steve". Here is something on Stax Records.

I bought some popcorn when I saw "Restrepo" yesterday. I then realized, hey, maybe that wasn't a popcorn type of film. But did you know you could microwave gourmet popcorn in a brown paper bag? And save money, as well.

I am a sucker for this goofy song when these two get together...



Negroponte says the physical book is dead in 5 years. I think I'm with him, as I am seriously considering the new Kindle.

The Taliban killing of 10 medics should have everyone upset. We cannot afford to lose people like these:

Karen Woo

and

Tom Little.

Exercise Yard

Soccer has already cranked up again. The Frenchies started Ligue 1 today. I saw Bocanegra was in the lineup for St, Etienne. And the annual kickoff of the EPL is tomorrow with the Community Shield.

The Community Shield matches the Premier League winner against the winner of the F.A. Cup. So that means it's between two teams you may have heard of: Manchester United vs. Chelsea.

And speaking of soccer, how about this for not only out of the box thinking, but perhaps out of their minds. The purchasers of the Silverdome want to divide it into three venues. Ground level will be a concert hall and a multi-purpose arena. On top of those, where the upper deck now starts, they want to build an outdoor soccer stadium.

"Tear the Roof Off The Sucka" (LIVE)/George Clinton



Visitor

41 Down: Theresa Dunn's ideal Mr. in a 1975 novel title (7 letters) Answer: Goodbar

Time to address some local deaths:

Milt Morin died. Morin was the favorite of countless kids who were Browns fans in the late '60s and early '70s. he had soft hands, blocked well and ran over a whole slew of defenders. Too bad he predates YouTube, as some of his YAC (yards after catch) footage would be priceless.

Harvey Pekar died. Never read his comics, but Paul Giamatti was perfect in his role in "American Splendor". All about The Pekar Project.

Bourdain Meets Pekar



George Steinbrenner died. Clearly the biggest "What If?" in Cleveland sports. Knowing the history of the Indians would have been different, you wonder how different with The Boss as owner. All I know is when he took over the Yankees, they were shit. Today, they play in a $1 billion stadium, have revenues of $600 million and a TV network (YES) valued at over $1 billion. Without question, this is the funniest "Steinbrenner" appearance on "Seinfeld". Frank Costanza's actions before he confronts Steinbrenner kills me every time.

Meal of Links

Top 15 cringeworthy Tour de France crashes. there are some gems here.

This is your brain. This is your brain on caffeine.

Here is the original Outside article from January on The Barefoot Bandit. And Bob Friel is still tracking him.

Chubby Checker is still twisting. 50 years later.

It sounds disgusting. But it's Science!

One of the cool things about the Happy Dog is that every other week they have a guy spinning old country music. So, I give you, Waylon Jennings, Nashville Rebel. If you can listen to only one of the songs, pick "Luckenbach, Texas".

"True Blood" equals "The Wire". Huh?

More science.

Exercise Yard

I don't want to belabor LeBron's decision, but there are are a few loose ends. And I'm sure more to come. Didn't the Dan Gilbert interview with SI come as close to a mea culpa as we are gonna get. After ripping LeBron on how the organization "enabled" him, he comes up with this quote: "He really never did ask and go above and beyond for material things." Huh? Gilbert goes on to say they enabled him in terms of returning calls, texts, etc. (and lack thereof) and frames that as a lack of respect issue. Fine. But that's not what he implied in his first "open letter".

if you like Matt Taibbi, you'll like his thoughts on "The Decision". (Hat tip to Gale)















(Hat tip to S.)

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15 Across: Wild Australian dog (5 letters) Answer: Dingo

Hirsh picks the best 11 of the World Cup.

Have you noticed how risky it has been for an athlete to appear in a high-profile ad? The World Cup has only Fabregas that I see remaining.

Nike World Cup Ad



Then we have this epic FAIL.

Gillette Ad



But good news. Andres Cantor appeared in a GEICO ad that made me laugh.

Andres Cantor GEICO Ad



Meal of Links

The Meadowlands is now officially torn down. No sign of Hoffa.

They have exhumed the body of Bobby Fischer to determine paternity. I'm betting he's still angry.

Here is the first picture from the new Planck telescope. Pretty awesome, it's of the universe.

One of the all-time baddies in hockey died today. Bob Probert was 45.

Exercise Yard

If you were blowing up things this weekend, you may not have realized the Tour de France started. Tomorrow promises to be a fun day. Why? Cobblestones!

Visitor

11 Down: "Shaft" star Richard (9 letters) Answer: Roundtree

The announce teams and their locations have been decided for March Madness. Gus Johnson gets to shuffle off to Buffalo. He'll call Syracuse. And West Virginia.

Meal of Links

Here are the largest mergers and acquisitions in history. I wonder how many have been considered succcessful.

Larry David says he'll be back. And not much more. Leon's back, as well.

Who didn't see this coming. She's another Christie Brinkley. Then there's Schwimmer.

The reverse mortgage did not help Peter Graves. I repeat. The reverse mortgage did not help Peter Graves.

The least valuable Democrat. Yep, he's my Congressman.

Exercise Yard

The Rays can't draw anyone on Fridays. So, they've decided to make their stadium "a baseball nightclub".

Visitor

10 Across: Journalist Nellie (3 letters) Answer: Bly

ESPN's "30 for 30" starts up again on Sunday. So, after you've digested this year's brackets, you need to watch this one. It's "Winning Time", about Reggie Miller and the New York Knicks. And it's from one of my favorite doc directors, Dan Klores.

Klores has done "Crazy Love", a doc on Ezzard Charles "Ring of Fire", and last year's really good ESPN doc on basketball from from small black colleges and universities "Black Magic". Excellent stuff all.

Meal of Links

Metro maps. With RTA goodness.

Which death affected you more? Corey Haim or Merlin Olsen?

Pop Culture Spelling Bee! I got 9 of 12, mainly missed crap I did not watch. But I got the last one!

Catching up with Steve Lillywhite. And he is serious about replacing Simon Cowell.

WTF? That was Katherine McPhee on "Community".

Short history of health-care reform. And why the government can't continually punt on the issue.

The Top 20 5-Second Films



Exercise Yard

CBS has given us these announcer pairings for March Madness. Gus is always great in March. I like Spero Dedes (the Lakers announcer), but he's paired with a not-so-good guy. Dick Enberg was subbed out the last few years for two games, is that a comeback?

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19 Across: Paul in the center square (5 letters) Answer: Lynde

I had not been to First Watch before. Originally, S. and I were gonna go to the one at Crocker, but all the kids out there must play, "Wakey, wakey, eggs and bakey" on Saturdays, as it was crowded. So, we went to the one in Rocky River instead.

Not bad. I had some pancakes, which are huge, so I only had two. Had a side of sausage, although good, you only get 2 for $2.99. I like that V8 is an option. It looks like they are big on omelets, as well. Like I said, decent grub, but you may do better by supporting the locals. For instance, we passed Herb's (who has Saturday and Sunday breakfast) on the way and that place was jammed.

Meal of Links

The Big Picture posted Part 2 of Olympic photos this week. I am telling you that Crosby/Niedermayer picture is a classic. The timing involved with having Sid's gloves and sticks out of the picture and the Canadian captain Niedermayer coming over to start celebrating is awesome.

Lilith Fair. It's back. "Police Academy". It's back.

Did you ever wonder what music is popular in strip clubs? Funny you should ask. Weezer is extremely popular. I wonder if they play "Dope Nose".

"Dope Nose"/Weezer



Late-Period Steve Martin. He's into everything, and hosts the Oscars tomorrow.

The European Poker Tour was in Berlin this week. And they got robbed today. On live TV! Six gunmen took 800,000 euros.

You are more likely to be sentenced to death for offing someone of high status. So much for justice.

"Dexter" updates.

30 favorite opening lines in literature. The one from "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" is especially good.

Exercise Yard

I think it is cool when they name schools after people we've actually heard of. For instance, in Milton, Canada, they have named a new elementary school after the wrestler, Tiger Jeet Singh.

Visitor

38 Down: Actor who often said, "Sorry about that, Chief." (8 letters) Answer: Don Adams (Two weeks in a row with clean Saturday crossword sheets, as he pats himself on back)

Since I spent most of the last two days doing Christmas stuff, it was time to take advantage of a Browns-less Sunday.

First stop. My Dad and I stopped in for a few minutes at the Kamms Corners Indoor Farmers Market. Got some provisions including some cheese, some fresh pasta, some jelly and some garlic butter. Brussels sprouts seem to be in season.

Then, it was off to the Cedar-Lee, where there were about 8 in attendance to see the late morning showing of "The Damned United". Yes, I went to see a movie about soccer. It was an homage to Brian Clough, "the best manager England never had". The American equivalent is maybe Billy Martin, sort of kind of.

Anyhow, the plot dealt with Clough's personal rivalry with Leeds united coach Don Revie. Revie left Leeds to coach England, after they failed to qualify for the World Cup in 1974. So, Clough takes over Leeds from his rival. And lasts all of 44 days as Manager.

Michael Sheen starred as Clough. I have now seen him play three famous Brits: Tony Blair, David Frost and Brian Clough. Other familiar faces, such as Jim Broadbent, Timothy Spall and the guy who worked with Jason Statham in "Snatch", filled out the cast. Not much soccer footage, although there is some archival footage of how dirty Leeds played back then.

The movie was fairly non-offensive and proved a pleasant diversion.

Meal of Links

The Best DIY Projects of 2009. I do like those Sun Jars. Those Ping-Pong Ball lights look good, too.

Tiger Woods. And modern celebrity.

Can a grapefruit-sized piece of hail kill you? And don't think I have not thought about it.

On the First Day of Christmas

Yeah, it's Christmas at Uncle Bob's house. First of all, it's Dylan doing Christmas. Then, it's Dylan choosing Brave Combo's polka, "Must Be Santa". Third, what's up with the hair?

"Must Be Santa"/Bob Dylan



Exercise Yard

Speaking of soccer, Randy Lerner must be living right. the Browns exorcised some demons against the Steelers on Thursday. Less than 48 hours later, his Other Team exorcised some of their own.

Aston Villa had not beaten Manchester United in 27 matches. They also had not won at Man U since 1983. Both of those streaks ended yesterday. Aston Villa 1, Manchester United 0

Visitor

None, on a wet Sunday.

Awesome trade for Mark DeRosa. Look, he was a 34-year old utility guy traded for a future closer and a PTBNL. Keep in mind, players to be named later have included David Ortiz, Jason Schmidt, Coco Crisp and how quickly we forget, Michael Brantley.

Here's an interesting take on the mechanics of Chris Perez, who pitched in the Cliff Lee Cardinals game, and is now an Indian.

I think it's safe to say, Shapiro thinks this guy will be the closer, post-Kerry Wood. Barring the inevitable arm injury, it seems.

I think the trade of DeRosa will actually stabilize the lineup. Wedge just has to follow through and pick the best 9 for his everyday lineup:

C Martinez (Sorry, Vic, we promised you first base this year, but not so fast, my friend. Shoppach gets Lee, maybe Pavano, nothing more.)
1B Garko (Garks wins out by default. Martinez is here when Shoppach catches.)
2B Carroll (over Valbuena at this point)
SS Cabrera
3B Peralta
LF LaPorta (Stop the 1B experiment for now. Sorry, Ben Francisco, we've seen enough.)
CF Sizemore
RF Choo
DH Hafner

This prevents Garko from ever seeing the outfield again, although he played there today. Honestly, can you argue against this as an everyday lineup? With DeRosa, Wedgie had way too many pieces/parts and overmanaged for three months. Not saying things will get better, but if I'm Wedge, this is how I fight to keep my job. Not by overthinking and playing Choo in left because there is more territory to cover in larger parks. You wouldn't do that if you had legitimate leftfielders in the lineup.

Oh, it's definitely a white flag on contending this season, but if it gets LaPorta here any faster, I'm all for it.

Meal of Links

Billy Mays died. I first saw him for OxyClean many years ago. But these ESPN 360 ads were gems:



Another look back at Michael Jackson. He predicted his own death. How come I didn't know that?

Roll-your-own cigarette taxes in Ohio went skyhigh. So this guy decided to enter the grow-your-own market.

Exercise Yard

I thought the USA was going to pull a stunning upset against Brazil today in the Confederations Cup Final. The US had a 2-0 lead at half which included probably the best goal I've ever seen by a US player.



Usually it's the other guys who do that to us. But alas, we are the USA and they are Brazil. Brazil wins, 3-2.

Visitor

None, a nice Sunday after a cloudy start.

What is with those gulls at Progressive Field? It is like a Hitchcock movie lately.

Might be time for these guys.

Meal of Links

It's Bonnaroo this weekend and AT&T is there. I'd say, without question, that Internet lineup is not the best that AT&T has ever offered, unless one of the TBAs is Springsteen.. More coverage here.

The 2009 Webby Awards were handed out the other day. That means, once again, five-word acceptance speeches. Excellent ones from Trent Reznor, ESPN Mobile, Smokey Bones, TheAtlantic.com, Huffington Post and The Onion.

I've recently stumbled upon Obit. Might be the best writing around about death.

This Guy Is Blunt



Exercise Yard

The Countdown begins. One year to World Cup 2010

Visitor

64 Across: "Get Shorty" novelist ______ Leonard (6 letters) Answer: Elmore

The Torture Memos were released today. Appalling would sum it up properly, I think. Here's the medical angle. You know, this relates to the epiphany I had many, many years ago about the death penalty. Every financial ("it's cheaper to gas 'em"), let alone the weak deterrent argument, regarding the death penalty is rendered moot by this simple point...We are a civilized society. Or supposed to be.

The memos are here, courtesy of the ACLU. You may think the idea of future prosecution is a bunch of hot air. Personally, I don't. I think it's a must.

And when you offer an argument about letting go, it's in the past. Well, you sound like Mark McGwire or a John Demjankuk supporter.

Meal of Links

Time to take a look at some different photos of women.

Allure went the naked celebrity route. Standouts include Lynn Collins. Even Chelsea made the cut with her Handlers. This was airbrushing at its finest.

Conversely, French Elle went the celebrities without makeup route. This includes Monica Bellucci, Eva Herzigova and Sophie Marceau.

Both sides have their merits.

The 50 Most Brilliant Atheists of all time. Familiar names include David Gilmour, Brian Eno, Steve Wozniak and Jodie Foster.

I hadn't seen Sir Mix-a-Lot in a very long time. I always kinda liked him. But what is with BK and their recent legacy of creepy commercials? Meanwhile, Johnny Depp visits SpongeBob.

Sarah Palin is having trouble even governing Alaska these days. Let's hear the R's cite her favorable ratings as governor today.

YouTube has a page to watch full TV episodes. I didn't look, but maybe the one where Al Bundy sweated Elvis is on there.

Another thing I have to worry about. Getting crushed by the Golden Arches.

Funniest headline today.

Exercise Yard

April 15 marked the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough Disaster. Generally regarded as the darkest day in the history of English soccer. 96 people died that day and the bottom line is you never expect to die while attending a match. Still resonates deeply over there. Fascinating reads.

Go Bruins



Seriously. Could this be the year?

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32 Across: Rowlands of "Another Woman" (4 letters) Answer: Gena