As most of you have gathered by now, today (12/22) is my birthday. Been around for a while but I seem to remember most or all of them and what happened during each. BUT - one birthday, for obvious reasons, is, absolutely, the most memorable. The year - 2003 - was not a particularly good one. The early part of that year I lost my mom to Alzheimer's and later in the year my marriage of 17 years came to an abrupt end. Going into Christmas of 2003, I was not exactly the happiest person.
Now, to set the rest of this all up, I have to take you back to the mid-70's when I was an impressionable young DJ in South Georgia. My mom and dad would occasionally come to visit and my dad and I would usually manage to squeeze in a golf game. On this particular day, it was very humid so I would always remove my college ring for fear of my fingers swelling when I played in that type of weather. That day, I placed the ring in the gold cart's open glove compartment. After we completed the round and started gathering our belongings, I noticed the ring was missing. My dad and I searched and searched, retracing step after step, but to no avail. I left a message at the front desk of the pro shop just in case the ring was found. This was my college graduation ring complete with fraternity insignia on the stone. I would have to say it was one of my most prized possessions. Unfortnately, nothing came back to the pro shop (or, at least, we thought) so my ring was gone for good. For close to 10 years, my sweet mother tried to get the ring replaced as a birthday gift but the expsne was just too much because it was a ring that had to made. None from 1972 were in stock. At one point, mom told me that she had tried but had to give up so I guess I just moved on from there and the ring became just am memory to me. Now, mond you, mom always.....and, I mean, ALWAYS, had to make sure I had a great birthday, as close to Christmas as it is.
Fast forward to early December 2003. I was single again, living alone. I come home from work one night to find a letter in my mailbox from the Penn State (my alma mater) Registrar's office. My first thought was that I owed the school money somehow. I opened the letter and noticed a handwritten note attached to an official letter from the registar which said "We think this ring may be yours. The inscription described in the attached letter closely resembles your name from that graduation year." Imagine my anticipation!!!.....after all these years!! I read the handwritten note from a man who lives in Rome, Georgia who says he found this ring and he wanted to get it back to the rightful owner. Now, the anticipation was turning into sheer joy. I knew I needed to find this person right away. The next morning I was able to get a phone number from information and I called and this very man answered. Turns out he lived next to the golf pro of the golf course in that South Georgia town back then. The gold pro found the ring on the course and saw that it was a Penn State ring. Well, his neighbor (this man) was a Penn State grad, so he brought it to him thinking he would be able to find the owner in a much, quicker fashion. The man held on to the ring and vowed to find the owner for quite some time but, then, life happened, and the ring wound up in a box for 18 years and 3 moves. Then, in the fall of 2003, while watching a special news story about a Vietnam veteran who was reunited with his fiance due to a found engagement ring, he decided to find the rightful owner of the class ring. Which brings us to the day we talked. He promised he would mail the ring that day (December 15th to be exact) and he did. 5 days later, I arrived at home to find a box in my mailbox postmarked Rome, Georgia. I couldn't get that box open fast enough. There it was - my 1972 Penn State class ring and my name inscribed on the inside. I tried it on and it fit as if I'd never lost it. I had my ring back - this time for good.
As I reflected on the events of the past week, I began to realize something which hit me, like a hurricane, head on. My mom always wanted me to have that ring as a birthday present and, here I am, just a day and a half before my birthday and I have the ring.......on the first birthday I won't share with my mother. But, knowing this four-foot-eleven, one-hundred-pound dynamo, I'm guessing that her first order of business with God was to make sure I got that ring on my birthday. Mom continued to make my birthday as special as ever. I believe that as how it happened and always will. Too many coincidences....too many events relating to it.
So, if you've lost someone close to you recently, or for that matter, ever, rest assured, you haven't "lost" them. They are there with you, watching over you, helping guide you through life. Since that day, I have felt my mother's presence on a daily basis. MY guardian angel. Who is yours?
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Can We Just Play The Game?
Over the past several weeks, I have gotten, increasingly, annoyed with the athletic "celebrations" I have viewed with various sporting events - primarly, football, but not confined to that sport.
I have always been of the "act like you've been there before" attitude when a player scores a touchdown on the football field BUT I will give them a general pass because I know that's the ultimate for any football player. What really gets to me are the celebrations after minor, almost miniscule, accomplishments. I see a player tackle another after a 1-yard gain and that player dances around as if he'd found gold. That's similar to a mechanic opening the hood of an automobile and high fiving everyone in the shop for doing that. I see this type of celebration over and over.
Then, there's the trash talk. The incomplete pass in football is, pretty much, a non-event once it happens but how often do I see opposing players "jawing" at each other on the way back to their respective huddles. Can we just play the game, folks?
All of this celebrating and trash talking came to head, in my mind, with an unbelieveably embarassing baskteball games last night between Xavier and Cincinnati Universities. Unnecessary celebrations....unnecessary words with opponents. The game has to end with 9 seconds left because both teams were so out of control. It was a street brawl....not a basketball game. This is what we've been reduced to and I believe my profession is somewhat responsible for it. What highlights do we see these days? The slam dunk in basketball.....the excessive end zone celebration in football....the major league baseball player standing an admiring his homerun instead of just circling the bases. Do ratings mean that much? I'd ask the coaches to get control of things but some of them are just as guilty. Ever watch a college baketball game and the "theatrics" of the head coach? Can we just play the game?
Then....I sense some hope from one individual. How refreshing was it to hear the speech of the 2011 Heimsan Tropy Winner for college football? It wasn't about him. It was about his school...his teammates. It had to be one of the most inspirational award acceptance speeches I've heard in quite some time. Robert Griffin III, you give me a reason to believe that the future may be brighter. You play the game!!!
I have always been of the "act like you've been there before" attitude when a player scores a touchdown on the football field BUT I will give them a general pass because I know that's the ultimate for any football player. What really gets to me are the celebrations after minor, almost miniscule, accomplishments. I see a player tackle another after a 1-yard gain and that player dances around as if he'd found gold. That's similar to a mechanic opening the hood of an automobile and high fiving everyone in the shop for doing that. I see this type of celebration over and over.
Then, there's the trash talk. The incomplete pass in football is, pretty much, a non-event once it happens but how often do I see opposing players "jawing" at each other on the way back to their respective huddles. Can we just play the game, folks?
All of this celebrating and trash talking came to head, in my mind, with an unbelieveably embarassing baskteball games last night between Xavier and Cincinnati Universities. Unnecessary celebrations....unnecessary words with opponents. The game has to end with 9 seconds left because both teams were so out of control. It was a street brawl....not a basketball game. This is what we've been reduced to and I believe my profession is somewhat responsible for it. What highlights do we see these days? The slam dunk in basketball.....the excessive end zone celebration in football....the major league baseball player standing an admiring his homerun instead of just circling the bases. Do ratings mean that much? I'd ask the coaches to get control of things but some of them are just as guilty. Ever watch a college baketball game and the "theatrics" of the head coach? Can we just play the game?
Then....I sense some hope from one individual. How refreshing was it to hear the speech of the 2011 Heimsan Tropy Winner for college football? It wasn't about him. It was about his school...his teammates. It had to be one of the most inspirational award acceptance speeches I've heard in quite some time. Robert Griffin III, you give me a reason to believe that the future may be brighter. You play the game!!!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
I Owe This Man My Life
This man is celebrating a birthday - a milestone birthday, for sure. My earliest recollection of him was a tall, gangly, yet purposeful person who embraced every day of his life with nothing but enthusiasm. He was always tough, yet fair.....always challenging, yet charitable.....intense, yet fun....and stern, yet loving. I learned, from him, that a job is never DONE until it is COMPLETE. You can paint a whole house but the job isn't done until everything is back in its place and you can admire the work in its normal environment. That type of work ethic is part of my DNA.
He taught me how to swing a bat, pass a football and shoot a basket, among other things. When I was a starter on my high school football team, he was there for every game, ready with encouragement and some constructive criticism when the game was over.
He is the main reason for my love of music. From earliest memory, I could always hear music in our house, whether it be a radio, a stereo or him, strumming his guitar and singing to me. And, yes, put the guitar on the list of things he taught me.
I am who I am today due to his guidance, strength and love. He is celebrating 90 years of life on this earth and starting way back on a summer night at age 6, in an emergency room when I heard "Don't worry, Daddy is right here", he has been ever since.
Dad, thanks for being "right here" from day one. I hope that I turn out to be half the human being you have turned out to be. Happy 90th Birthday!
He taught me how to swing a bat, pass a football and shoot a basket, among other things. When I was a starter on my high school football team, he was there for every game, ready with encouragement and some constructive criticism when the game was over.
He is the main reason for my love of music. From earliest memory, I could always hear music in our house, whether it be a radio, a stereo or him, strumming his guitar and singing to me. And, yes, put the guitar on the list of things he taught me.
I am who I am today due to his guidance, strength and love. He is celebrating 90 years of life on this earth and starting way back on a summer night at age 6, in an emergency room when I heard "Don't worry, Daddy is right here", he has been ever since.
Dad, thanks for being "right here" from day one. I hope that I turn out to be half the human being you have turned out to be. Happy 90th Birthday!
Monday, November 21, 2011
A Thankful Week
This is the week wheh it all really starts - the Holiday Season (cue the music!). This is when I start thinking about the past year...past years....what's ahead....all of that. Most of all, in the spirit of the week of giving thanks, it's my turn. I consider myself one very lucky person. I've had the opportunity to meet some big stars....see some bigger ones in concert...and become friends with some even bigger ones. I've had experiences in one year in this business that some don't get to have in a lifetime!!! Needless to say, I am thankful for my profession - as consolidated and homogenized as it has become in some places, it is still the only job I care to want or have, ever!
I am truly thankful to work for a company who believes in the phrase "live and local" and they live it every day. I am thankful for an outstanding boss who challenges me daily and makes me feel 20 years younger. I am extremely grateful to work WITH a staff who share the same passion for this business, for music, for radio. I am extremely thankful for all of those who I've had the pleasure of working along side at various radio stations in various cities.
I am thankful for a father who still mentors me to this day in his own inimitable way and a brother and sister who I know have had my back every day of my life.
I am thankful for a grown daughter and son-in-law who have always made me feel special and blessed me with three wonderful grandchildren. I am also thankful that I got another shot at being a Dad a few years back and now am the parent of a beuatiful, smart, gregarious 13-year old daughter. Thanks for keeping me on my toes every day!!!
I am thankful for the woman who makes each day seem so special. She makes my arrival home seem as if it's the highlight of her day. It doesn't get any better than that.
Most of all, I am thankful that I have Someone in my corner Who lets me know what the real priorities are. Thank you, God, for being there every minute. Believe me, I know You are there!
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
I am truly thankful to work for a company who believes in the phrase "live and local" and they live it every day. I am thankful for an outstanding boss who challenges me daily and makes me feel 20 years younger. I am extremely grateful to work WITH a staff who share the same passion for this business, for music, for radio. I am extremely thankful for all of those who I've had the pleasure of working along side at various radio stations in various cities.
I am thankful for a father who still mentors me to this day in his own inimitable way and a brother and sister who I know have had my back every day of my life.
I am thankful for a grown daughter and son-in-law who have always made me feel special and blessed me with three wonderful grandchildren. I am also thankful that I got another shot at being a Dad a few years back and now am the parent of a beuatiful, smart, gregarious 13-year old daughter. Thanks for keeping me on my toes every day!!!
I am thankful for the woman who makes each day seem so special. She makes my arrival home seem as if it's the highlight of her day. It doesn't get any better than that.
Most of all, I am thankful that I have Someone in my corner Who lets me know what the real priorities are. Thank you, God, for being there every minute. Believe me, I know You are there!
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
A Win for the Student Body
Some of you may know that I'm a graduate of Penn State - a very, PROUD alumnus I might add. I've worn the Penn State colors for years.....been a proud fan of any Nittany Lions' sport, particularly football. While at Penn State, I never really had the opportunity to meet Coach Paterno but I did idolize him, regardless. It wasn't until 4 years ago, on a non-publicized visit to Granby High School, that I did finally get a chance to meet him and spend a little time(I have some associations with that school which enabled me to meet him.). After that, the pedestal was higher than ever for Coach and PSU!.......THEN the events of this past week unfolded and I felt as if I had been punched right in the stomach... betrayed by own father. You see, that's JoePa to any Penn Stater. He is like a father to anyone who has ever attended that school. As this week progressed, my pride began to turn to embarassment, anger and disgust. How did all of this happen at such a great place??? To add insult to injury, I watched a misguided group of students cause even more embarassment for Penn State Wednesday night after Coach Paterno's dismissal was announced.
After all of this, I had decided that showing any Penn State colors, logos, etc. in the future would not be in any of my wardrobe plans. The man I admired more than most and the university I was proud to have attended had let me down and it would be quite some time, I thought, before that would ever change.
I actually wasn't sure whether I even wanted to watch the Penn State-Nebraska game but then I was made aware of two things - a student candlelight vigil last night(with some of the players)and a proposed student "Blue-Out" for the game to remember the victims and their families. That was just the tip of the so-called iceberg. As the game telecast began, I watched the team come in from the tunnel arm-in-arm, shoulder-to-shoulder, surrounded by cheerleaders and NUMEROUS former Penn State players. I saw a totally BLUE stadium. I saw Penn State AND Nebraska football teams meet at midfield and pray together for these victims and their families and those who have yet to come forward. I saw a student body unified for a cause....a cause this country knew existed but now realizes how big of a problem it really is.
The game was a good one. Both teams showed a tremendous amount of resiliency and heart but the Nittany Lions fell short by 3 points. How did the student body in that stadium react? A standing ovation for both teams!!! Once again, the teams met at midfield and prayed as did the entire crowd.
This may have been a loss for the Penn State football team but it was a huge victory for the Penn State student body who showed the world that no coach, no game, no school holds more importance than the innocence of a child. You can count on seeing me, from here on, in my Penn State blue and white....but, for a very different reason!
After all of this, I had decided that showing any Penn State colors, logos, etc. in the future would not be in any of my wardrobe plans. The man I admired more than most and the university I was proud to have attended had let me down and it would be quite some time, I thought, before that would ever change.
I actually wasn't sure whether I even wanted to watch the Penn State-Nebraska game but then I was made aware of two things - a student candlelight vigil last night(with some of the players)and a proposed student "Blue-Out" for the game to remember the victims and their families. That was just the tip of the so-called iceberg. As the game telecast began, I watched the team come in from the tunnel arm-in-arm, shoulder-to-shoulder, surrounded by cheerleaders and NUMEROUS former Penn State players. I saw a totally BLUE stadium. I saw Penn State AND Nebraska football teams meet at midfield and pray together for these victims and their families and those who have yet to come forward. I saw a student body unified for a cause....a cause this country knew existed but now realizes how big of a problem it really is.
The game was a good one. Both teams showed a tremendous amount of resiliency and heart but the Nittany Lions fell short by 3 points. How did the student body in that stadium react? A standing ovation for both teams!!! Once again, the teams met at midfield and prayed as did the entire crowd.
This may have been a loss for the Penn State football team but it was a huge victory for the Penn State student body who showed the world that no coach, no game, no school holds more importance than the innocence of a child. You can count on seeing me, from here on, in my Penn State blue and white....but, for a very different reason!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
A Night of Mixed Emotions
It was party time.......oh yes...CMA Awards Night!! We started at our hotel where we hung out with the Eli Young Band for a bit. I told lead singer Mike Eli that next year they would be hitting the red carpet. In their typical, low-key, Texas style, Mike echoed the bands sentiments in that they were enjoying their "anonymity" this year and satisfied to celebrate their firs number 1 song which happened during CMA week. That was enough attention as far as Mike was concerned.
The show was one of the better ones kicked off with that rousing Blake Shelton/Kenny Loggins "Footloose" (wasn't it good to hear Kenny sing that again?). Brad and Carrie were great together and Zac Brown just nailed it with Greg Allman and that rendition of "Georgia On My Mind".
Really excited for The Band Perry, who just 2 years ago were watching American Idol in my office after a short St. Jude Radiothon appearance for us. Blake and Miranda win...as expected in my mind. Lady A pick up another one and Taylor gets the big one. If you were at one of Taylor's stadium shows, you understand why she got the award.
In the middle of all this, I get the news of a firing of a long time college footbal coach. I'm a Penn State grad and Joe Paterno has always been one of my idols....so the night began to take on a bittersweet flavor. (I'll address all that in a future blog, for sure).
The big, post-award parties were going.....Warner Brothers (Blake's label) was the best, in my mind, with a rockin' soul band and an energetic crowd. We hung out with Nick, Damien and Krista of The Farm and, somehow, you could tell that they would be an honored band in the future.
At the Capitol party, Luke Bryan was holding court and just happy that he didn't mess up his performance on the show.
The Big Machine party (Taylor's label) was a little too high-tech for me and the rumors of the label being sold (for 200 million, mind you!) permeated that event.
So, the week is done....what a great week....hope we added a little more CMA Awards flavor to your life this week. Hope you enjoyed the videos, the pictures, the blog, etc. As we leave this morning, I am thankful for several things - a boss who allows me to be gone this long; a wonderful format that keeps cranking out great artists and great music; a work partner (Mark McKay) who is relentless in his pursuit of information and entertainment and my lovely wife, who, if it's possible, enjoys this all even more than I do and makes it even more fun to experience. Until next time......
The show was one of the better ones kicked off with that rousing Blake Shelton/Kenny Loggins "Footloose" (wasn't it good to hear Kenny sing that again?). Brad and Carrie were great together and Zac Brown just nailed it with Greg Allman and that rendition of "Georgia On My Mind".
Really excited for The Band Perry, who just 2 years ago were watching American Idol in my office after a short St. Jude Radiothon appearance for us. Blake and Miranda win...as expected in my mind. Lady A pick up another one and Taylor gets the big one. If you were at one of Taylor's stadium shows, you understand why she got the award.
In the middle of all this, I get the news of a firing of a long time college footbal coach. I'm a Penn State grad and Joe Paterno has always been one of my idols....so the night began to take on a bittersweet flavor. (I'll address all that in a future blog, for sure).
The big, post-award parties were going.....Warner Brothers (Blake's label) was the best, in my mind, with a rockin' soul band and an energetic crowd. We hung out with Nick, Damien and Krista of The Farm and, somehow, you could tell that they would be an honored band in the future.
At the Capitol party, Luke Bryan was holding court and just happy that he didn't mess up his performance on the show.
The Big Machine party (Taylor's label) was a little too high-tech for me and the rumors of the label being sold (for 200 million, mind you!) permeated that event.
So, the week is done....what a great week....hope we added a little more CMA Awards flavor to your life this week. Hope you enjoyed the videos, the pictures, the blog, etc. As we leave this morning, I am thankful for several things - a boss who allows me to be gone this long; a wonderful format that keeps cranking out great artists and great music; a work partner (Mark McKay) who is relentless in his pursuit of information and entertainment and my lovely wife, who, if it's possible, enjoys this all even more than I do and makes it even more fun to experience. Until next time......
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
THE Day is Here!!!
What a week this has been and it's only Wednesday morning!! Lots going on now that we are approaching awards day. Yesterday morning, most of us in the hotel were rousted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood playing outdoors next door to us for ABC's "Good Morning, America". Got a chance to visit more with Faith Hill at our braodcast booth who was amazed we would play her new song so much (every 97 minutes today).I will say this.....Faith could use a donut or two. That is one beautiful, THIN woman.
Great video interview with Mark about her new song. Kiefer and Shauna - Thompson Square stopped by and they talked about how exciting it's been to get their first CMA nomination, especially after they were tending bar right down the street, while trying to make ends meet, just 18 months ago.
Last night, we had the pleasure of attending a party hosted by their label.....who, also, have some guy named Jason Aldean. He received a special #1 album plaque last nightfrom the head of the label. Label mate James Wesley performed and they announced the signing of one of our favorites (and the man with one of the best laughs of all time) Randy Houser.....now married to Chesapeake native, Alicia Yantz. Lots of fun....but this is just the beginning. Post-awards parties are tonight and we will be blogging away about that tomorrow. Until then........
Great video interview with Mark about her new song. Kiefer and Shauna - Thompson Square stopped by and they talked about how exciting it's been to get their first CMA nomination, especially after they were tending bar right down the street, while trying to make ends meet, just 18 months ago.
Last night, we had the pleasure of attending a party hosted by their label.....who, also, have some guy named Jason Aldean. He received a special #1 album plaque last nightfrom the head of the label. Label mate James Wesley performed and they announced the signing of one of our favorites (and the man with one of the best laughs of all time) Randy Houser.....now married to Chesapeake native, Alicia Yantz. Lots of fun....but this is just the beginning. Post-awards parties are tonight and we will be blogging away about that tomorrow. Until then........
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Our House is Your House
What a day this second one of the CMA week turned out to be. We had the chance to se and talk to some big names. Taylor Swift stopped by and couldn't stop talking about her new kitten named "Meredith" (who my little one thinks is names after her, by the way!). Jennifer and Christian, Sugarland, gave us a neat, little scoop telling us that they will debut a new song on the CMA's that we will play for you Thursday morning. Jennifer promised that it is VERY "steamy". Vince Gill, in his "Make Biscuits, Not War" hat was as personable as ever and Steve Holy refined his standup routine with us later in the day. You can see and hear all of those interviews, and more, right here: http://www.eagle97.com/pages/11387381.php.
Last night, we had the pleasure of being taken out to Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's house (pictures on our Eagle Facebook page) for a really, cool, relaxed get together with several hundred of their friends. The house is one once owned by Hank Williams Sr. so that was cool enough all by itself.
Spoke to Faith about her single "Come Home" (her first in 5 years) that you'll hear first on The Eagle tomorrow starting at 6:45am. She's really excited about it and hinted that she and Tim would be visiting Hampton Roads some time next year. (And she looked awesome, of course).
Tim was glad to be without a cane and was walking fine alhough he told me he's waiting until after the new year to start back to his jogging routine.
It was a fun night and more to come today. Hope we're helping you enjoy it aall with us.
Last night, we had the pleasure of being taken out to Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's house (pictures on our Eagle Facebook page) for a really, cool, relaxed get together with several hundred of their friends. The house is one once owned by Hank Williams Sr. so that was cool enough all by itself.
Spoke to Faith about her single "Come Home" (her first in 5 years) that you'll hear first on The Eagle tomorrow starting at 6:45am. She's really excited about it and hinted that she and Tim would be visiting Hampton Roads some time next year. (And she looked awesome, of course).
Tim was glad to be without a cane and was walking fine alhough he told me he's waiting until after the new year to start back to his jogging routine.
It was a fun night and more to come today. Hope we're helping you enjoy it aall with us.
Monday, November 7, 2011
First Day at CMA Week
I guess you can it's the calm before the storm. We did get to talk to the boys in the Eli Young Band as they were finding out that they achieved gtheir first number one song with "Crazy Girl". If you think it doesn't mean alot to these folks check out Mark McKay's interview with them here:
http://www.eagle97.com/pages/11387381.php.
Several artists on the comeback trail, in particular, Ty Herndon, who has some excellent new music out as we talked about getting him to the Eagle's Nest for a show.
You can feel the excitement starting to build. The city is starting to "fill up" with folks and the artists begin to really hit the interview trail with us today......Band Perry, Taylor Swift, Chris Young and Hunter Hayes to name just a few.
The big news yesterday was in Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood's press conference as Brad confessecd that oldest son Huck no longer has a "thing" for Carrie. He has now turned his attention to Kimberly of The Band Perry.
We also have a special Eagle Winterblast "tease", so to speak, from one of the bands that you can catch on the interview page, too.
Finally, we hear that 70's/80's icon Kenny Loggins may be coming through today. In case you hadn't heard, he and Blake Shelton will be opening the CMA Awards show with a special version of "Footloose".
Tonight we go to Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's house for a small "gathering". I'll have something on that for you this time tomorrow.
http://www.eagle97.com/pages/11387381.php.
Several artists on the comeback trail, in particular, Ty Herndon, who has some excellent new music out as we talked about getting him to the Eagle's Nest for a show.
You can feel the excitement starting to build. The city is starting to "fill up" with folks and the artists begin to really hit the interview trail with us today......Band Perry, Taylor Swift, Chris Young and Hunter Hayes to name just a few.
The big news yesterday was in Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood's press conference as Brad confessecd that oldest son Huck no longer has a "thing" for Carrie. He has now turned his attention to Kimberly of The Band Perry.
We also have a special Eagle Winterblast "tease", so to speak, from one of the bands that you can catch on the interview page, too.
Finally, we hear that 70's/80's icon Kenny Loggins may be coming through today. In case you hadn't heard, he and Blake Shelton will be opening the CMA Awards show with a special version of "Footloose".
Tonight we go to Tim McGraw and Faith Hill's house for a small "gathering". I'll have something on that for you this time tomorrow.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
In Music City for the CMA Awards
Well, we have arrived. Mark McKay and I are here in Nashville for the next 5 days for CMA Awards week. Check this blog every day/morning or an update as to what we've seen, heard and learned. We'll be visiting with lots of stars and you'll be able to catch those conversations on our special CMA page on the Eagle web site. This won't be a blog abou how much fun we're having or who we have eaten with, etc. This is for the purpose of getting YOU inside the CMA awards. Who was seen with who.....what have we heard about any future tours, artists, etc. We'll pass it all on right here and, if there is something you want to know, let us know on our Facebook fan page and we'll do our best to find out for you. We are here for you so be ready to be a part of the CMA Awards.
Friday, October 28, 2011
There Used To Be a Ballpark
I have spouted off about this before but, after last night's amazing finish to Game 6 of the 2011 MLB World Series, I feel the need to spew again!!!!
Last night was probably one of the most exciting World Series games in years and I would guess that about 1000 people on the east coast got to see the end of it. Why is that? The game's FIRST PITCH wasn't until about 8:07pm. If it had ended in regulation, we are still talking about around 11:30 but this one went into extra innings (11 to be exact) and wound up ending at 12:40 AM!!!!!
One of my fondest childhood memories from this time of year were the World Series' games I was able to listen to on the radio and/or watch on television. My interest in baseball was above just about everything else and the same applied for most of my friends at that time. We would re-enact these games in our own back yards or at the nearby school baseball field.
These days those fields are empty. When was the last time you saw a bunch of kids playing baseball anywhere? The fields, the yards, the streets? What I mentioned in the first paragraph is the primary reason why. What child is able to stay up past 10pm, let alone 12:40AM, to watch a basxeball game? Oh, but John, we can't forget the west coast. Remember, they're 3 hours behind us. So, how many West Coast baseball fans are into the Rangers and the Cardinals? You probably could count that on one hand.
Now look at the NFL.....Sunday afternoons are still sacred. They still play in daylight, for the most part. Even the Super Bowl is over early enough for everyone to watch
When will Major League Baseball realize that they are losing the younger fan base? The NFL...the NCAA.....Extreme Games.....that's where they are going......or maybe they're just going to the streets with nothing to do but get into trouble. Bring baseball back to the masses. The earlier, the better!
Last night was probably one of the most exciting World Series games in years and I would guess that about 1000 people on the east coast got to see the end of it. Why is that? The game's FIRST PITCH wasn't until about 8:07pm. If it had ended in regulation, we are still talking about around 11:30 but this one went into extra innings (11 to be exact) and wound up ending at 12:40 AM!!!!!
One of my fondest childhood memories from this time of year were the World Series' games I was able to listen to on the radio and/or watch on television. My interest in baseball was above just about everything else and the same applied for most of my friends at that time. We would re-enact these games in our own back yards or at the nearby school baseball field.
These days those fields are empty. When was the last time you saw a bunch of kids playing baseball anywhere? The fields, the yards, the streets? What I mentioned in the first paragraph is the primary reason why. What child is able to stay up past 10pm, let alone 12:40AM, to watch a basxeball game? Oh, but John, we can't forget the west coast. Remember, they're 3 hours behind us. So, how many West Coast baseball fans are into the Rangers and the Cardinals? You probably could count that on one hand.
Now look at the NFL.....Sunday afternoons are still sacred. They still play in daylight, for the most part. Even the Super Bowl is over early enough for everyone to watch
When will Major League Baseball realize that they are losing the younger fan base? The NFL...the NCAA.....Extreme Games.....that's where they are going......or maybe they're just going to the streets with nothing to do but get into trouble. Bring baseball back to the masses. The earlier, the better!
Saturday, October 22, 2011
There Goes My "Neighborhood"
We live in a modest, ranch home. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Your typical 60's home upgraded and remodeled, of course. Since day one, I have had full use of the master bath which is a small closet-like room attached to our master bedroom. The girls - my wife and daughter - used the large "guest" bathroom complete with two sinks, tub, etc. - all of the acoutrements needed as far as any women is concerned.
Well, now, that the "little" girl is moving into the teen years, my lovely wife is now having issues sharing the bathroom with her and has decided it would be best for us to share the smaller master bath. This morning has been "move in" day. The sink has, somehow, disappeared in a sea of various lotions and soaps. Half of the medicine cabinet now has items I couldn't identify if you put a gun to my head. Of course, during the "cleanup" (and there was a massive cleanup prior to move-in), my wife claims to have found medicine and after shave that had expired 5 years ago. Those things have expiration dates? Really? Nothing had evaporated or disappeared so, for me, they were still good. Guess not for the "new" tenant.
I just walked in there a few minutes ago and the aroma of Pine-Sol permeated the room. Hadn't smelled that in years. The floor, the shower, the sink - spotless!!!! What was happening??? Cleanliness has now crept into my life. That's a positive, I guess. I would also have to assume that the other would be the year or two added to my life because of the lack of whatever germs had resided in there for the past 6 years.
I guess sharing isn't so bad after all!
Well, now, that the "little" girl is moving into the teen years, my lovely wife is now having issues sharing the bathroom with her and has decided it would be best for us to share the smaller master bath. This morning has been "move in" day. The sink has, somehow, disappeared in a sea of various lotions and soaps. Half of the medicine cabinet now has items I couldn't identify if you put a gun to my head. Of course, during the "cleanup" (and there was a massive cleanup prior to move-in), my wife claims to have found medicine and after shave that had expired 5 years ago. Those things have expiration dates? Really? Nothing had evaporated or disappeared so, for me, they were still good. Guess not for the "new" tenant.
I just walked in there a few minutes ago and the aroma of Pine-Sol permeated the room. Hadn't smelled that in years. The floor, the shower, the sink - spotless!!!! What was happening??? Cleanliness has now crept into my life. That's a positive, I guess. I would also have to assume that the other would be the year or two added to my life because of the lack of whatever germs had resided in there for the past 6 years.
I guess sharing isn't so bad after all!
Saturday, October 8, 2011
You Gotta Have Heart
It's been a while for one of these but it's time to get back into the old "blog" swing and, after yesterday, it's time. I will warn you that a sports analogy is coming but there will be a point for everyone...sports enthusiast or not.
Last night, I had the opportunity to witness two sporting events - one in person and one on TV. After taking in the results of each, I was able to see the relation between the two.
I had the fortune of seeing one of the best high school football games I ever witnessed, in person, last night. A game where the lead changed 7 times in the 4th quarter alone! I saw the home team (my team, by the way) fall behind with less than a minute to go and, then, I watched as a bunch of players became a team. They closed ranks, with just 40 seconds left and 80 yards to go to score, pulled it all together to come back and win. They looked to each other and used each other to lift the team to a higher level.
My second sporting event was viewed from the comfort of my "man room" couch as my Philadelphia Phillies (if you don't know by now....I'm a Philly native and a HUGE fan!)were trying to stave off being eliminated from the National League playoffs. They were a preseason pick....and a during-season pick, to win the whole thing. This was a team made up of some of the best in the business and they were fortified this year by more of that type of player. In the other dugout, a team that was doing all they could to get IN the playoffs, let alone STAY in the playoffs. One team - the Phils - had a 10 and a half game lead when they clinched their playoff place. The other team - the St. Louis Cardinals - were 10 and a half games OUT OF the playoffs when that happened. They had lots of ground to make up in a short period of time. Well, you know the result. What I saw last night was one group of players waiting for the next guy to step up against another TEAM who closed ranks and decided to do it TOGETHER!!! You know who won?.....the TEAM, of course!!!!
The common thread from both of these events - other than the fact that two TEAMS won? Both winners showed the love they had for each other as teammates and put away and all personal ambitions for the sake of the TEAM. They performed with their hearts instead of their heads. Give me a TEAM like that every time and talent doesn't matter. There IS strength in unity.
Out jogging this morning, I thought about the parallels to my life and to others I know. I can't do it alone....with my job.....with my family......with my life. I, YOU, need a TEAM to make it happen every day with your job, your family....your life!!! You GOTTA have heart!! That brain part is secondary!
Last night, I had the opportunity to witness two sporting events - one in person and one on TV. After taking in the results of each, I was able to see the relation between the two.
I had the fortune of seeing one of the best high school football games I ever witnessed, in person, last night. A game where the lead changed 7 times in the 4th quarter alone! I saw the home team (my team, by the way) fall behind with less than a minute to go and, then, I watched as a bunch of players became a team. They closed ranks, with just 40 seconds left and 80 yards to go to score, pulled it all together to come back and win. They looked to each other and used each other to lift the team to a higher level.
My second sporting event was viewed from the comfort of my "man room" couch as my Philadelphia Phillies (if you don't know by now....I'm a Philly native and a HUGE fan!)were trying to stave off being eliminated from the National League playoffs. They were a preseason pick....and a during-season pick, to win the whole thing. This was a team made up of some of the best in the business and they were fortified this year by more of that type of player. In the other dugout, a team that was doing all they could to get IN the playoffs, let alone STAY in the playoffs. One team - the Phils - had a 10 and a half game lead when they clinched their playoff place. The other team - the St. Louis Cardinals - were 10 and a half games OUT OF the playoffs when that happened. They had lots of ground to make up in a short period of time. Well, you know the result. What I saw last night was one group of players waiting for the next guy to step up against another TEAM who closed ranks and decided to do it TOGETHER!!! You know who won?.....the TEAM, of course!!!!
The common thread from both of these events - other than the fact that two TEAMS won? Both winners showed the love they had for each other as teammates and put away and all personal ambitions for the sake of the TEAM. They performed with their hearts instead of their heads. Give me a TEAM like that every time and talent doesn't matter. There IS strength in unity.
Out jogging this morning, I thought about the parallels to my life and to others I know. I can't do it alone....with my job.....with my family......with my life. I, YOU, need a TEAM to make it happen every day with your job, your family....your life!!! You GOTTA have heart!! That brain part is secondary!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Our Little "Surprise"
It was 49 years ago.......earlier in the year....the announcement was made at our dinner table that my brother, at age 17, and I, at age 11, were going to be treated to a family addition. No, not a pet....a real, live human being. We were going to have another sibling in the house. We never gave another family member a thought.....until that day. Well, 49 years ago yesterday, our little sister was born. My days as the youngest were over....I was the now the "middle" child. Little did I know how blessed that day would be. She was the happiest, sweetest little one. I was, pretty much, the "big" brother at home since my big brother headed off to college. She was with me just about everywhere even that day that my friends taught her, as she put it, "some new bad words" while watching us play basketball in our driveway. I watched her excel in gymnastics at age 6......and 7 ....and 8.....and then I went off to college. From there it's been a blur but she has grown up to be one of the strongest people I know. Life threw her a number of curveballs but, like the patient hitter, she handled it all. I couldn't be prouder of anyone. Happy Birthday to my little sister.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
THEE Man in My Life
From the first day I could recall anything, he was there......not the most affectionate guy but...he was there.....he was there for my first day at school. He was there for my confirmation, first communion, etc. A night I will always remember when he was there - I was 6 years old, being treated for a nasty head cut in a hospital emergency room (I was begging my mom to go outside and play one last time, sitting at the top of our basement steps and I leaned a little too far and tumbled down the steps to the bottom where the back of my head found a paint-covered cinder block. Maybe why I've been accused by some of having a hard head.). I was as scared as any 6-year old would be in that situation until I heard whispered in my ear, "Don't worry, I'm here!......He was there for to teach me how to catch and hit a baseball, throw a football, shoot a basketball, mow a lawn, drive a car, etc. He was there supporting me through all of my relationship mistakes. Never second-guessed me, although he could....and maybe should have..:). After my last one went awry after a bunch of years, not too long ago, he was there, calling me offering encouragement. He was right - the best was yet to come and I met her 7 years ago. He taught me the meaning of loyalty and obedience; what a little "elbow grease", as he called it, would do for me. He taught me NEVER to quit on anything, especially myself. He was tough and somewhat hard to please but he was the most generous individual I'd ever known. He would help anyone in trouble, whether he knew them or not.
Today, I am one of the fortunate ones who, at my age, get to spend a day with him. My Dad.....if I turn out to be half the person he's been, I'm good! My Dad - THEE man in my life! Please remember yours today.....whether he is here or not....believe he is always "here" for you.
Today, I am one of the fortunate ones who, at my age, get to spend a day with him. My Dad.....if I turn out to be half the person he's been, I'm good! My Dad - THEE man in my life! Please remember yours today.....whether he is here or not....believe he is always "here" for you.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Is Our Life A Numbers Game?
It's been awhile since we've talked. Count on these to be a little more frequent from here on. Thanks for your patience, in the meantime.
By now, you should know that I'm a huge sports fan and, at different times during my career, I did some work for various sports teams. My most memorable "stint" was with the NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks in their pre-Mark Cuban days. I have a longer history with Mr. Cuban being his very first ever web streaming client. KLIF, Dallas, started it all for him......so, was there any question as to whom I was rooting for in the NBA Finals? It's still takes me back just a bit when I precede the Mavericks name with "NBA Champion". I was there when 15-20 wins in an 80-game season was more than the norm than an aberration. I saw when this team started builidng itself. Above that, I saw the philosophy they were beginning to build on - the philosophy that got them a championship - teamwork! No one player was above any other. Every one had a role and a backup role and they all were integral part of an improbable championship run. Before his ownership, Mark Cuban exexmplified that with the way he treated his web clients and carried that over to his team.
The Mavs' coach, Rick Carlisle, spoke of success versus fulfillment after the big win. Each player achieved some level of success in the league and their careers up to that point but none were able to fulfill that ultimate dream until this past Sunday. They went up against a Miami Heat franchise with two (maybe three) of the most talented players in the NBA today against one aging star and 11 other "spare parts". What ensued was a "star" who looked at more of himself as part of a bigger team framework going against three all-stars who hadn't figured out how to reach the mountain top as a unit.
The Dallas Mavericks fulfilled their ultimate dream by relying on each other through the good and bad times. They believed in each other. They leaned on one another. They had confidence and each other's ability knwoing , if one player was out of step another would step up. They believed in the fulfillment. "Strength in numbers" is what one player epitomized as the ultimate reason for the Mavericks' win.
Thetre is no question that we can learn from this event with our jobs, our friends, our family, our faith! We can't do any of this alone. NONE of it. Yes, we will experience individual success but that only happens for that moment in time. Our ultimate fulfillment depends on how we build our relationships over time and how we incorporate tjem into our life. If we approached our lives as the Dallas Mavericks approached an NBA Championship, all uf us......we may see the world around us as God meant it be when he put it all together. There's definitely "Strength in Numbers".
By now, you should know that I'm a huge sports fan and, at different times during my career, I did some work for various sports teams. My most memorable "stint" was with the NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks in their pre-Mark Cuban days. I have a longer history with Mr. Cuban being his very first ever web streaming client. KLIF, Dallas, started it all for him......so, was there any question as to whom I was rooting for in the NBA Finals? It's still takes me back just a bit when I precede the Mavericks name with "NBA Champion". I was there when 15-20 wins in an 80-game season was more than the norm than an aberration. I saw when this team started builidng itself. Above that, I saw the philosophy they were beginning to build on - the philosophy that got them a championship - teamwork! No one player was above any other. Every one had a role and a backup role and they all were integral part of an improbable championship run. Before his ownership, Mark Cuban exexmplified that with the way he treated his web clients and carried that over to his team.
The Mavs' coach, Rick Carlisle, spoke of success versus fulfillment after the big win. Each player achieved some level of success in the league and their careers up to that point but none were able to fulfill that ultimate dream until this past Sunday. They went up against a Miami Heat franchise with two (maybe three) of the most talented players in the NBA today against one aging star and 11 other "spare parts". What ensued was a "star" who looked at more of himself as part of a bigger team framework going against three all-stars who hadn't figured out how to reach the mountain top as a unit.
The Dallas Mavericks fulfilled their ultimate dream by relying on each other through the good and bad times. They believed in each other. They leaned on one another. They had confidence and each other's ability knwoing , if one player was out of step another would step up. They believed in the fulfillment. "Strength in numbers" is what one player epitomized as the ultimate reason for the Mavericks' win.
Thetre is no question that we can learn from this event with our jobs, our friends, our family, our faith! We can't do any of this alone. NONE of it. Yes, we will experience individual success but that only happens for that moment in time. Our ultimate fulfillment depends on how we build our relationships over time and how we incorporate tjem into our life. If we approached our lives as the Dallas Mavericks approached an NBA Championship, all uf us......we may see the world around us as God meant it be when he put it all together. There's definitely "Strength in Numbers".
Monday, February 21, 2011
FINALLY, An INteresting NASCAR Story
For those who know me, I'm an avid sports fan. I like most sports. Depending upon the event, I watch my share of baseball, football, golf, basketball, hockey, etc. To be very honest, though, I have never been a any kind of a NASCAR fan. I have tried but a race of 500 miles just can't hold my interest so I, usually, wait until about mile 495 to watch a major race. This applied to the past weekend's Daytona 500. I figured I would wait until about a couple of laps were remaining and, then, I would be there to see the finish.
Turns out I wound up seeing history and something, in my opinion, that can do nothing but good for NASCAR. Jeff Gordon was out.....Jimmy Johnson was deep in the pack......Junior wrecked just prior to my tuning in. So - up steps this 20-year old rookie who was only driving in his second NASCAR event and, in a thrilling finish, wins! What a story - best exemplified by his remark after the race while driving off the track ' "Where Do I Go Now - I've never been here before!" 20 years old....the youngest ever to win the Daytona 500. Trevor Bayne showed us that even NASCAR can come up with a great story. I noticed that the attention being paid to this win and Trevor himself stretched well beyond the normal NASCAR fan. Even my wife showed interest in the story and she is about as interested in NASCAR as our little dog (as a matter of fact, the pup did show some interest toward the end, waking from his nap to stare at the TV.). On a weekend when the NBA All-Stars were showing off (literally) their talents in LA; on a weekend when Major League Baseball Spring Training got underway in earnest; on a weekend, when the NFL owners and the Players Association started their negotitiation joust, NASCAR took center stage. Hats off to you, Trevor Bayne. Don't be a flash in the pan and this could be a year long story! Just what NASCAR needs to bet back into total prominence.
Turns out I wound up seeing history and something, in my opinion, that can do nothing but good for NASCAR. Jeff Gordon was out.....Jimmy Johnson was deep in the pack......Junior wrecked just prior to my tuning in. So - up steps this 20-year old rookie who was only driving in his second NASCAR event and, in a thrilling finish, wins! What a story - best exemplified by his remark after the race while driving off the track ' "Where Do I Go Now - I've never been here before!" 20 years old....the youngest ever to win the Daytona 500. Trevor Bayne showed us that even NASCAR can come up with a great story. I noticed that the attention being paid to this win and Trevor himself stretched well beyond the normal NASCAR fan. Even my wife showed interest in the story and she is about as interested in NASCAR as our little dog (as a matter of fact, the pup did show some interest toward the end, waking from his nap to stare at the TV.). On a weekend when the NBA All-Stars were showing off (literally) their talents in LA; on a weekend when Major League Baseball Spring Training got underway in earnest; on a weekend, when the NFL owners and the Players Association started their negotitiation joust, NASCAR took center stage. Hats off to you, Trevor Bayne. Don't be a flash in the pan and this could be a year long story! Just what NASCAR needs to bet back into total prominence.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
The Best "Rules" I Know
Had to share these with you from one of my all-time idols, Vince Lombardi. Applys to all of us. Feel free to pass them on:
The Lombardi Rules
Adapted from
The Lombardi Rules: 26 lessons from Vince Lombardi
1) Ask Yourself Tough Questions
Answer the question of purpose. Am I going to let my life be controlled by the crush of daily activities or will my purpose prevail over the demands that never cease to cry for attention?
2) Expect to be Observed
Whether you like it or not, you're being watched 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. People will know who you are by what you do more than by what you say.
3) Write Your Character
The word “character” is derived from old world concepts of engraving and inscribing. Character doesn't blink. It means seeking truth, finding and keeping faith, practicing humility and showing respect and compassion for others. Learn from hardship. Identify your heroes.
4) Total Commitment
The Latin root for commitment is "to cut away from," like an incision. When you commit to something you are cutting away all your other options. 100% effort, 100% of the time is what it takes to win.
5) Work Harder than Everybody
Do more than somebody else is willing to do and you'll end up winning. "Run it again" wasn't just something I said to the team, during practice, it was the way I lived my life.
6) Be Prepared to Sacrifice
Without pain, turmoil, commotion, anxiety, stress, and tension, there is no growth, no change. You must pay the price. You've got to pay a price for anything that's worthwhile.
7) Be Mentally Tough
Be willing to hold to your goals in the face of pressure and stress. Mental toughness means seeking out the pressure that can't be avoided anyway, and being energized by it. It's not the ability to survive a failure; it's the ability to come back stronger from failure.
8)Explain the Whys
Always start with why, not how. "I never tell a player this is my way, now do it. Instead I say, this is the way we do it, and this is why we do it."
9) Act, Don't React
- Study the past, live in the present
- Continue Learning
- Seize the moment
10) Chase Perfection
You will never get there, but you'll end up with excellence because you chased it. Chasing perfection is both a necessary and frustrating part of life.
The Lombardi Rules
Adapted from
The Lombardi Rules: 26 lessons from Vince Lombardi
1) Ask Yourself Tough Questions
Answer the question of purpose. Am I going to let my life be controlled by the crush of daily activities or will my purpose prevail over the demands that never cease to cry for attention?
2) Expect to be Observed
Whether you like it or not, you're being watched 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. People will know who you are by what you do more than by what you say.
3) Write Your Character
The word “character” is derived from old world concepts of engraving and inscribing. Character doesn't blink. It means seeking truth, finding and keeping faith, practicing humility and showing respect and compassion for others. Learn from hardship. Identify your heroes.
4) Total Commitment
The Latin root for commitment is "to cut away from," like an incision. When you commit to something you are cutting away all your other options. 100% effort, 100% of the time is what it takes to win.
5) Work Harder than Everybody
Do more than somebody else is willing to do and you'll end up winning. "Run it again" wasn't just something I said to the team, during practice, it was the way I lived my life.
6) Be Prepared to Sacrifice
Without pain, turmoil, commotion, anxiety, stress, and tension, there is no growth, no change. You must pay the price. You've got to pay a price for anything that's worthwhile.
7) Be Mentally Tough
Be willing to hold to your goals in the face of pressure and stress. Mental toughness means seeking out the pressure that can't be avoided anyway, and being energized by it. It's not the ability to survive a failure; it's the ability to come back stronger from failure.
8)Explain the Whys
Always start with why, not how. "I never tell a player this is my way, now do it. Instead I say, this is the way we do it, and this is why we do it."
9) Act, Don't React
- Study the past, live in the present
- Continue Learning
- Seize the moment
10) Chase Perfection
You will never get there, but you'll end up with excellence because you chased it. Chasing perfection is both a necessary and frustrating part of life.
Friday, February 4, 2011
There Is No Tomorrow!
For the past two days, we here at 97.3 The Eagle have broken from our normal programming schedule to ask you to help the kids at St. Jude Children's Research Center and become a Partner in Hope. We know how tough it is to listen to all of this. Today is it...so if you haven't become a Partner in Hope, please think about it and call 1-800-335-9793 or go to www.eagle97.com to donate online - $20 a month on your credit card is all we ask. I'm a Partner in Hope and so is my wife and, this year, our little one (now 12), at dinner Wednesday night, asked me about the Partner in Hope, how much it was, etc. Then she asked me where she could find an envelope. 10-15 minutes after dinner she shows up with a sealed envelope in her and and writes "St. Jude's Donations" on it, hands it to me and said that this was her donation to be a Partner in Hope for a month - a $20 bill (from her own money) was in there. She explained that she couldn't do it every month because she didn't have enough money. Needless to say, her mom and I looked at each other and smiled, although I was having a difficult time holding back the TEARS of joy. I know that God opened up "The Book of Meredith" (her name) and put a big Gold Star in it.
Our child is healthy, thanks to God and I can assume that yours is so we are both very thankful! Let's remember those who aren't and help them today. If a 12-year old can understand the significance of helping the kids at St. Jude, then it shouldn't be any problem for any of us adults. 1-800-335-9793. Thanks!
Our child is healthy, thanks to God and I can assume that yours is so we are both very thankful! Let's remember those who aren't and help them today. If a 12-year old can understand the significance of helping the kids at St. Jude, then it shouldn't be any problem for any of us adults. 1-800-335-9793. Thanks!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Some "Big Game" Thoughts
All of us this week are subject to, no matter what we watch or hear, Super Bowl hype.........oops...or should I say "Big Game" hype. Not sure whether I used that name for personal gain or not. First of all, can the NFL lighten up a little on that? Hey, fellas, realize that every time we mention that game by its rightful name, we've added to the brand you've created. You should be proud not litigious! I'll say it one more time - SUPER BOWL!!!
Now, about the game.......what a classic matchup. Two long standing franchises - one family-owned and operated since day one and the other fan owned and operated since day one. No "fat cat" owners or conglomerates to get in the way. Two teams from the original NFL. Nice to have that for a change.
Seeing that this game is being played in Dallas, Texas was, originally, ridiculous to me because, I believe, the Packers and Steelers must play in cold weather. These are cold weather, "frozen tundra" teams. Have to play in frigid conditions! Well, lo and behold if D/FW isn't being hit with an unusual cold front/ice storm. I see the Lord and I agree. Unfortunately, the NFL wants to make the "experience" a comfortable one, so the roof on Cowboy's Stadiun will be closed for the game. Well, there goes that idea.
Another thought - did you see the quotes about concussions from Steelers wide receiver, Hines Ward. If you haven't, go to GQ Magazine's web site and read them. The man makes alot of sense. In a nutshell, he says if the NFL REALLY cared about concussions, they would require players to wear special helmets AND they would provide insurance for them for their lifetime, not just while they play. On top of that, he thinks the fine money for these helmet-to-helmet hits should go to an NFL veterans fund to help ex-players who have retired. Hines Ward for commissioner!!! Profound stuff.
Finally, who wins? Steelers 23-17. Hope you have a great Super Bowl...er.....Big Game party!
Now, about the game.......what a classic matchup. Two long standing franchises - one family-owned and operated since day one and the other fan owned and operated since day one. No "fat cat" owners or conglomerates to get in the way. Two teams from the original NFL. Nice to have that for a change.
Seeing that this game is being played in Dallas, Texas was, originally, ridiculous to me because, I believe, the Packers and Steelers must play in cold weather. These are cold weather, "frozen tundra" teams. Have to play in frigid conditions! Well, lo and behold if D/FW isn't being hit with an unusual cold front/ice storm. I see the Lord and I agree. Unfortunately, the NFL wants to make the "experience" a comfortable one, so the roof on Cowboy's Stadiun will be closed for the game. Well, there goes that idea.
Another thought - did you see the quotes about concussions from Steelers wide receiver, Hines Ward. If you haven't, go to GQ Magazine's web site and read them. The man makes alot of sense. In a nutshell, he says if the NFL REALLY cared about concussions, they would require players to wear special helmets AND they would provide insurance for them for their lifetime, not just while they play. On top of that, he thinks the fine money for these helmet-to-helmet hits should go to an NFL veterans fund to help ex-players who have retired. Hines Ward for commissioner!!! Profound stuff.
Finally, who wins? Steelers 23-17. Hope you have a great Super Bowl...er.....Big Game party!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Can We Please Stop Trying Find Someone to Blame?
This past weekend, Tucson, Arizona became the center of attention when a lone gunman, apparently seeking out a Congresswoman from the state, shot and killed 6 people and wounded 14 at a shopping center. A horrible event, to say the least. In its aftermath, I heard, not only the country sheriff, but various news agency talk hosts blame the conservative media and the Tea Party movement for being one of the causes for this sad day. You have GOT to be kidding me! When a tragedy like this occurs, we all want someone to take responsibility. But - for anyone to lay some of that on the media makes the whole thing a bit far-fetched. Why then should we not indict Hollywood for producing films highlighting deranged individuals? How many times have we heard of a tragedy that is linked in that way? For some reason, Hollywood appears to be exempt.
Bottom-line, this was one deranged individual who committed a heinous act. He wasn't provoked by the media, Hollywood or any particular organization. He had one target and he was obsessed with that. He was not a conservative. He was not a liberal. He was just one sick human being. Let's just leave it at that and not get carried away.
Bottom-line, this was one deranged individual who committed a heinous act. He wasn't provoked by the media, Hollywood or any particular organization. He had one target and he was obsessed with that. He was not a conservative. He was not a liberal. He was just one sick human being. Let's just leave it at that and not get carried away.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
One Example of What We All Can Do
By now, you are pretty much aware of the story of Ted Williams. No, not the Hall of fame baseball star. I'm referring to the homeless man who stood on a street corner in Columbus, Ohio asking for help with his God-given talent of a good voice. Millions of YouTube views later, this guy found himself on network news shows, morning radio shows and mulling over several job offers including one very lucrative one with Pro Basketball's Cleveland Cavaliers which included a mortgage paid on a house. No one knew this man two days ago. Now, he is probably the biggest story of this young year, thus far. Here was a man down on his luck, homeless, suddenly seeing his life make an unexpected, enormously successful turn. Why? Because hundreds of people came up with job possibilities for this man. Hundreds of thousands wanted to help in some way. So - my question is this: Why can't we do this for other folks down on their luck as Mr. Williams has been? I'm not just talking about out of work radio DJ's. I'm talking about that 9.8% who are unemployed in our country. What if we joined together for those folks as we did for this man? That 9.8% would be considerably less, wouldn't it? Various organizations seemed to be able to find an opening for this man so maybe there are others who can do the same for the rest of the out-of-work population. Think about the possibilities. No need for government intervention.....we do it OURSELVES (thank you, Bob McNeill). Don't know any better reason as to why we are here, do you?
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