Good Morning America's Robin Roberts has worked very hard to get to where she is. Roberts was one of the best anchors on SportsCenter and at ESPN.
This morning, she went on air and announced that she is battling breast cancer. Not an easy thing to do, but another way to get the message out to people that they need to be diligent in taking care of themselves.
Roberts doesn't strike me as someone who isn't a fighter and won't give it her all, like she has everything else in her life. Good luck Robin - or as she would say, "Go on with your bad self."
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
Crazy day in sports
I know it's hard to read - but here's the latest info from the Michael Vick case. Tony Taylor flipped and says there's no deal for him. If that's the case, then why flip at all??? Just strange stuff. Here's what Taylor told the feds.
The Atlanta Braves made a trade to get Mark Teixeira. Could be the move they need to win another division title. Hey Mets and Phillies fans - be afraid, be very afraid!!
One sad piece of news to report. To me, the greatest offensive mind in NFL history, Bill Walsh, passed away at the age of 75. I am sure SportsCenter will have a retrospective on the man who gave us the West Coast offense.
The Atlanta Braves made a trade to get Mark Teixeira. Could be the move they need to win another division title. Hey Mets and Phillies fans - be afraid, be very afraid!!
One sad piece of news to report. To me, the greatest offensive mind in NFL history, Bill Walsh, passed away at the age of 75. I am sure SportsCenter will have a retrospective on the man who gave us the West Coast offense.
The King of Sports Writing
When my comrades and I at USA Today.com started one of the best sites on the web, we had a big struggle in the newsroom trying to get writers to write for the web.
How many times and ways did I have to explain to people that even if the paper only gave you 10 inches of space, if you have 27 inches of a story, we can run it all on the web. Space is never an issue with us. They just didn't get it during my tenure there. It was as frustrating as can be. Nowadays, they are much better at working the web.
It wasn't until 1997 when I came to help build and run CNN/SI.com (now known as SI.com) editorially did I meet the one man that got it from day one: Peter King. Not only did he get it - but if he had it, our readers had it. From the Monday Morning Quarterback to the mailbag - Peter just understands how to use the medium like no one else.
If you don't read Peter every week and you are an NFL fan - then you don't understand the NFL. He's the best out there and you need to go check out this week's MMQB. He's got a great conversation with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
How many times and ways did I have to explain to people that even if the paper only gave you 10 inches of space, if you have 27 inches of a story, we can run it all on the web. Space is never an issue with us. They just didn't get it during my tenure there. It was as frustrating as can be. Nowadays, they are much better at working the web.
It wasn't until 1997 when I came to help build and run CNN/SI.com (now known as SI.com) editorially did I meet the one man that got it from day one: Peter King. Not only did he get it - but if he had it, our readers had it. From the Monday Morning Quarterback to the mailbag - Peter just understands how to use the medium like no one else.
If you don't read Peter every week and you are an NFL fan - then you don't understand the NFL. He's the best out there and you need to go check out this week's MMQB. He's got a great conversation with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
Late night host Snyder memories
Most of you know that I am a former journalist and although it isn't my profession now, it's my passion and love. It's something that is just in your blood and you can't escape.
With that being said, from time-to-time I will digress to talk about people who I think have changed media in a way that needs to be recognized.
One such person passed away yesterday, Tom Snyder. He was a late night television legend. Some of you who remember Dan Akroyd as a Saturday Night Live cast member and not as a Blues Brother, might remember when he parodied him.
Snyder was a good interviewer who didn't take himself too seriously. He interviewed many famous folks, but most remember his Charles Manson interview and his Kiss interview where Ace Frehley was drunk.
I am sure tonight on NBC Nightly News there will be a retrospective on his life and career. Be good to watch and see what they choose to show of his career.
With that being said, from time-to-time I will digress to talk about people who I think have changed media in a way that needs to be recognized.
One such person passed away yesterday, Tom Snyder. He was a late night television legend. Some of you who remember Dan Akroyd as a Saturday Night Live cast member and not as a Blues Brother, might remember when he parodied him.
Snyder was a good interviewer who didn't take himself too seriously. He interviewed many famous folks, but most remember his Charles Manson interview and his Kiss interview where Ace Frehley was drunk.
I am sure tonight on NBC Nightly News there will be a retrospective on his life and career. Be good to watch and see what they choose to show of his career.
Do you really need a new toy?
Having two children, there are toys all over the house. Seems like in every room, there is something for them to play with. And if they don't like the toys in the one specific room, they swap out from other rooms.
Heck, most of the time, they'd rather have a big box that they can color and just play in and around. And I have two girls - no boys.
But I was thinking, all of these years later, am I or any of my male friends any different?
The only difference I see is that our toys are technical and cost a bunch of money. We all have iPods, Blackberry's, cell phones, surround sound, HD, Tivo, flat screens, wireless high tech remotes and all of that junk.
But I have drawn a line in the sand - I am anti-iPhone. Not saying that it isn't a cool toy. Just saying I don't need it.
Shocking to hear me say that huh? I don't need it. My fingers quake when typing those words.
Why do I feel this way about what can be the coolest invention in a long time? Let's breakdown what it is.
It's an all in one product combining a phone, iPod and Blackberry. I have all of those and I like what I have at this point. Plus the email keypad to type is OK, not great. I am addicted to my Crackberry and I love the keypad on the older one I have. I didn't even get the newer ones because of it.
My friend Matt, who works for AT&T, told me to sit tight and the price will drop and the product will get better in less than a year. But I am not sure I would jump on the bandwagon when it comes to that.
I am scared, I must be growing up if I am feeling this way. The old me, would have gone out an bought the iPhone right away.
But I don't need a toy in every room anymore. I just need the right ones that get the job done. Besides, I rather spend the money buying the girls new dresses and toys.
More fun for me right now ... wait for October to see if it's more girls toys, or I get to buy toys for a boy.
I can definitely use a Tonka dumptruck right about now. Doubt I will get it.
Heck, most of the time, they'd rather have a big box that they can color and just play in and around. And I have two girls - no boys.
But I was thinking, all of these years later, am I or any of my male friends any different?
The only difference I see is that our toys are technical and cost a bunch of money. We all have iPods, Blackberry's, cell phones, surround sound, HD, Tivo, flat screens, wireless high tech remotes and all of that junk.
But I have drawn a line in the sand - I am anti-iPhone. Not saying that it isn't a cool toy. Just saying I don't need it.
Shocking to hear me say that huh? I don't need it. My fingers quake when typing those words.
Why do I feel this way about what can be the coolest invention in a long time? Let's breakdown what it is.
It's an all in one product combining a phone, iPod and Blackberry. I have all of those and I like what I have at this point. Plus the email keypad to type is OK, not great. I am addicted to my Crackberry and I love the keypad on the older one I have. I didn't even get the newer ones because of it.
My friend Matt, who works for AT&T, told me to sit tight and the price will drop and the product will get better in less than a year. But I am not sure I would jump on the bandwagon when it comes to that.
I am scared, I must be growing up if I am feeling this way. The old me, would have gone out an bought the iPhone right away.
But I don't need a toy in every room anymore. I just need the right ones that get the job done. Besides, I rather spend the money buying the girls new dresses and toys.
More fun for me right now ... wait for October to see if it's more girls toys, or I get to buy toys for a boy.
I can definitely use a Tonka dumptruck right about now. Doubt I will get it.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Primetime stupidity
Sometimes people just need to stop talking. Many NFLers have made comments about Michael Vick's situation. Emmitt Smith made some absurd comments last week about it and now here comes Deion Sanders.
Now I have to tell you, I love Deion. He's one of the greatest PR stunts ever invented. I will never forget when he was drafted and someone asked him what kind of contract he was looking for. In a quote that ran on the front of USA Today he said, "I want a contract that rhymes with my name. Neion, Deion, Million." Classic with the chains and the geri-curl do back in the day.
But now, I don't even know what to say about his column in his hometown News Press of Fort Myers. Read on and you will see why.
Deion’s take on Vick hits ESPN
Originally published on July 27, 2007
Fort Myers native Deion Sanders made plenty of national headlines during his NFL career. On Thursday, the former All-Pro found himself in the national spotlight again, thanks to his recent column in The News-Press about Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, who is facing federal charges of running an illegal dogfighting ring.
Sanders’ column, which ran in last Sunday’s The News-Press, was debated on ESPN’s radio and television networks. ESPN radio host John Kincaid said Sanders’ computer should have reached out and grabbed his hands, preventing him from writing his opinion about the Vick case.
Here's his column
I would've never thought Mike Vick, one of the NFL's most exciting players — the man who makes the network execs smile every time he plays — would ever be indicted for crimes against man's best friend.The potential impact could be devastating.
He could lose millions worth of endorsements. Nike has already suspended the release of his new shoe. He could lose millions he was supposed to get from the Atlanta Falcons, if the club decides to cut him. That's unlikely, but it could happen if he's convicted or makes a plea arrangement.
Or his reputation might wind up so stained that he's never forgiven in the court of public opinion. That would be too bad for the 27-year-old superstar.This is all the result of perspective.
What a dog means to Vick might be a lot different than what he means to you or I. Hold on, don't start shaking your head just yet. Listen to me.
Some people kiss their dogs on the mouth. Some people let their dogs eat from their plate. Some people dress their dogs in suits more expensive than mine, if you can believe that.
And some people enjoy proving they have the biggest, toughest dog on the street. You're probably not going to believe this, but I bet Vick loves the dogs that were the biggest and the baddest. Maybe, he identified with them in some way.
You can still choose to condemn him, but I'm trying to take you inside his mind so you can understand where he might be coming from.
I'm sure all of the animal activists and Humane Society folks have a dart board with Vick's picture in the center of it. And if he plays this season, PETA is going to picket every stadium where he plays.Still, I must ask the question: Where is all of this going?
By now you've read all of the accusations about the cruelty involving the dogs — and I'm not just talking about their duels to the death. All of that is enough to make me cringe because I have three highly-trained protection German shepherds, just in case someone wants to rob my family.
Believe me, you don't want to deal with them. With one German command, our dog Yascho turns into Cujo. And for the record, I live around the corner from the police station, so it won't take them long to show up and save you from the dogs.
Now back to Vick.
Why are we indicting him? Was he the ringleader? Is he the big fish? Or is there someone else? The fights allegedly occurred at a property that he purchased for a family member. They apparently found carcasses on the property, but I must ask you again, is he the ringleader?
This situation reminds me of a scene in the movie "New Jack City," when drug dealer Nino Brown is on the witness stand and eloquently says, "This thing is bigger than me."Are we using Vick to get to the ringleader? Are we using him to bring an end to dogfighting in the United States?
The only thing I can gather from this situation is that we're using Vick.Was he wrong? Absolutely. Was he stupid? Can't argue with that. Was he immature? No doubt. But is he the ringleader? I just can't see it.
I believe Vick had a passion for dogfighting. I know many athletes who share his passion. The allure is the intensity and the challenge of a dog fighting to the death. It's like ultimate fighting, but the dog doesn't tap out when he knows he can't win.It reminds me of when I wore a lot of jewelry back in the day because I always wanted to have the biggest chain or the biggest, baddest car. It gives you status.
Can I pause for a moment to ask you a question?
Who shot Darrant Williams? Remember the Denver Bronco cornerback? I'm just more concerned about bringing to justice someone who killed a human. Or finding out who broke into Miami Heat forward Antoine Walker's home, tied him up and robbed him at gunpoint.
We're attacking this dogfighting ring the same way a teenager attacks his MySpace page after school (by the way parents, make sure you monitor your kids). We should have the same passion for man that we have for man's best friend.
The reason this is turning into a three-ring circus is that baseball is boring, basketball is months away, football is around the corner and we in the media don't have a thing interesting to write about.
How will this end up? I have no idea. All I know is Falcons fans better pray because Vick's backup is Joey Harrington. Enough said.
God bless and God willing I'll hollah at you next week.
— Deion Sanders, a North Fort Myers High School graduate, played in the NFL and Major League Baseball. He works as an analyst for the NFL Network and is part-owner of the Austin Wranglers of the Arena Football League.
Where should I even begin? Ya know what - I am going to let you begin... thoughts, comments and concerns??? Jump in and I will follow along ... but I am sure most of you know what I think.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
The day after in Hotlanta
How many of you have actually read the FULL indictment from the Michael Vick case?
Seriously have you read the entire indictment? If you haven't please read this now.
It is by and far one of the most vile things you will ever read, if you can even finish it.
If any of it is remotely true, Vick shouldn't worry about Roger Goodell. He might try worrying about the U.S. legal system.
How do you think new coach Bobby Petrino feels? Check out Jeff Schultz's column in the AJC. Arthur Blank didn't sign up for this when he bought the team. Wanna know how bad it really is?? Even the AJC's Terrence Moore, who supports every African-American sports star no matter what, is saying that Vick is done in Atlanta. If that isn't a tell-tale sign, I don't know what is.
My former colleague Jon Saraceno sums up most people's thoughts on Vick in his column.
It's all over talk radio, it's all over television and for Michael Vick, it looks like his time in Atlanta can be over sooner than he would like. All that said, please don't tell me it's a race issue. If Tom Brady was running this situation instead of Vick - it would still be horrific and still be huge news.
On top of which, I am sure that there's more people that have gone to these dogfights that are name brand athletes. If they ever dig deep on this, I am terrified as to what they will find.
By the way, does ANYONE care about the cheating and the disaster that the Tour de France has become? It's embarrassing what the world is coming to, isn't it?
Seriously have you read the entire indictment? If you haven't please read this now.
It is by and far one of the most vile things you will ever read, if you can even finish it.
If any of it is remotely true, Vick shouldn't worry about Roger Goodell. He might try worrying about the U.S. legal system.
How do you think new coach Bobby Petrino feels? Check out Jeff Schultz's column in the AJC. Arthur Blank didn't sign up for this when he bought the team. Wanna know how bad it really is?? Even the AJC's Terrence Moore, who supports every African-American sports star no matter what, is saying that Vick is done in Atlanta. If that isn't a tell-tale sign, I don't know what is.
My former colleague Jon Saraceno sums up most people's thoughts on Vick in his column.
It's all over talk radio, it's all over television and for Michael Vick, it looks like his time in Atlanta can be over sooner than he would like. All that said, please don't tell me it's a race issue. If Tom Brady was running this situation instead of Vick - it would still be horrific and still be huge news.
On top of which, I am sure that there's more people that have gone to these dogfights that are name brand athletes. If they ever dig deep on this, I am terrified as to what they will find.
By the way, does ANYONE care about the cheating and the disaster that the Tour de France has become? It's embarrassing what the world is coming to, isn't it?
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Hi-Ho Jonny the Frog here... or is it Fozzie Barkan?
Wow - now that ain't grandma's blog... it looks different from the last time I looked.
The Barkan Dawg has gone through a bit of a redesign and the more I thought about it, Kermit and Fozzie are the perfect header to my page. Kermit always covers the news and Fozzie always makes fun of it. If that doesn't fit me, don't know what does.
Let me know whatcha think of the look? Green has always been my favorite color - so it fits my blog well. By the way, if you ever want help with design, make sure to click on Karen's link on the left side of the nav bar below - Swank has been awesome. Thanks Karen!
I am trying to grow readership and expand our horizons - so please pass along the new look and blog to your friends. I'm always appreciative of your following and would love to have more of an interaction with comments or things you'd like me to write about. With everything going on in the sports world plus the political spectrum, I should be busy for the next ten years.
So come on gang let's have some fun and make some noise. Look forward to more interaction with y'all.
The Barkan Dawg has gone through a bit of a redesign and the more I thought about it, Kermit and Fozzie are the perfect header to my page. Kermit always covers the news and Fozzie always makes fun of it. If that doesn't fit me, don't know what does.
Let me know whatcha think of the look? Green has always been my favorite color - so it fits my blog well. By the way, if you ever want help with design, make sure to click on Karen's link on the left side of the nav bar below - Swank has been awesome. Thanks Karen!
I am trying to grow readership and expand our horizons - so please pass along the new look and blog to your friends. I'm always appreciative of your following and would love to have more of an interaction with comments or things you'd like me to write about. With everything going on in the sports world plus the political spectrum, I should be busy for the next ten years.
So come on gang let's have some fun and make some noise. Look forward to more interaction with y'all.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Words you never thought you would hear from me...
OK - I hate to admit it, but I have to say something that is going to hurt me.
You ready? I'm not sure I can do this... here goes nothing.
Way to go Gary Bettman!
No, your eyes aren't seeing things and your browser is working well. I said it - the NHL commissioner is doing ONE thing right. Problem is right now, it's the ONE thing that every other commissioner in sports would kill to swap places with Gary on.
His league isn't dealing with a federal indictment that can really hurt his league. Now some may throw out the gambling mishap with Rick Tocchet, but it's no where near as crippling as the other leagues fun stories.
Let's start with baseball and Bud Selig. Hank Aaron's record is about to be passed by Barry Bonds, who is still under indictment. Matter of fact they got a six month extension on that one - congrats boys. Now can you get the info fast enough to save the Hammer's record? Out of all people, why does it have to be him? It's not often in life I root for the government, this one is an easy cheer for the U.S. and Hank.
We then move to the NFL where Roger Goodell is dealing with Michael Vick's fun. Have to say this much - Goodell is the strongest commissioner in sports by far. He stepped in and told Vick to stay away from training camp until the NFL finds out what's up. It's a paid suspension, but who cares? The money will just go to legal fees anyway. The happiest person with that decision? For sure Arthur Blank. He didn't want to have to cut Vick and then have all of his season ticket holders go postal on him and ask for their money back. Which trust me, in Atlanta, that is what would have happened if Blank cut him before due process.
And if you think we couldn't get any bigger and better than the NFL, good ol' David Stern in the NBA is hoping to wake up tomorrow to find that he is dealing with a cruel joke. Unfortunately for Stern, ex-referee Tim Donaghy's case is only going to get worse. Now Donaghy needs protection from some bad guys that want him to stay quiet...permanently! If he spills the beans on others involved in the NBA in any way, shape or form, we are looking at a scandal as big as the Black Sox in 1919. Not sure that I would bet .10 on him ever making it to witness protection, but I heard Vegas has him on the board as a 6-1 to make it to trial.
Did you read everything I just laid out for you??? How insane is all of it? Sports is supposed to be our escape. Now for these folks, they are just trying to escape jail and the repercussion of their mistakes.
Thank CBS for Big Brother 8. At least with that, you know what you get from Day 1. Stupid television to make you feel better for not being those people.
I am just thankful I am not a commissioner of a sports league. Hey, has David Beckham been indicted yet on anything?
Hey Gary Bettman - don't get used to it, but good job.
You ready? I'm not sure I can do this... here goes nothing.
Way to go Gary Bettman!
No, your eyes aren't seeing things and your browser is working well. I said it - the NHL commissioner is doing ONE thing right. Problem is right now, it's the ONE thing that every other commissioner in sports would kill to swap places with Gary on.
His league isn't dealing with a federal indictment that can really hurt his league. Now some may throw out the gambling mishap with Rick Tocchet, but it's no where near as crippling as the other leagues fun stories.
Let's start with baseball and Bud Selig. Hank Aaron's record is about to be passed by Barry Bonds, who is still under indictment. Matter of fact they got a six month extension on that one - congrats boys. Now can you get the info fast enough to save the Hammer's record? Out of all people, why does it have to be him? It's not often in life I root for the government, this one is an easy cheer for the U.S. and Hank.
We then move to the NFL where Roger Goodell is dealing with Michael Vick's fun. Have to say this much - Goodell is the strongest commissioner in sports by far. He stepped in and told Vick to stay away from training camp until the NFL finds out what's up. It's a paid suspension, but who cares? The money will just go to legal fees anyway. The happiest person with that decision? For sure Arthur Blank. He didn't want to have to cut Vick and then have all of his season ticket holders go postal on him and ask for their money back. Which trust me, in Atlanta, that is what would have happened if Blank cut him before due process.
And if you think we couldn't get any bigger and better than the NFL, good ol' David Stern in the NBA is hoping to wake up tomorrow to find that he is dealing with a cruel joke. Unfortunately for Stern, ex-referee Tim Donaghy's case is only going to get worse. Now Donaghy needs protection from some bad guys that want him to stay quiet...permanently! If he spills the beans on others involved in the NBA in any way, shape or form, we are looking at a scandal as big as the Black Sox in 1919. Not sure that I would bet .10 on him ever making it to witness protection, but I heard Vegas has him on the board as a 6-1 to make it to trial.
Did you read everything I just laid out for you??? How insane is all of it? Sports is supposed to be our escape. Now for these folks, they are just trying to escape jail and the repercussion of their mistakes.
Thank CBS for Big Brother 8. At least with that, you know what you get from Day 1. Stupid television to make you feel better for not being those people.
I am just thankful I am not a commissioner of a sports league. Hey, has David Beckham been indicted yet on anything?
Hey Gary Bettman - don't get used to it, but good job.
A picture says a thousand words....
I laughed when we saw this picture originally. Now that I look back at this picture from the AP that ran in Peter King's Monday Morning Quarterback, I can only think about how it's partially Arthur Blank's fault.
Not the charges specifically, but he hasn't held Michael Vick responsible for any of his antics. And don't tell me he fined him or yelled at him - if this was one of his Home Depot folks, would he have let this come down this way? Probably not.
Many people say that new coach Bobby Petrino wants to just start the season with Joey Harrington as his quarterback and not deal with all the drama and craziness that will surely follow Vick until all of this is decided in a court of law.
And that still needs to happen and we shouldn't pass judgement before we know the facts. And please don't make this a race issue. If he was white and doing all this supposed stuff, he would and should be in the same boat. This is an issue of a man who had thought he was bigger than he is. Just a sad, sad thing.
Only thing sadder is that people think Harrington is the "safe" way to go.... at least until his first pass in a regular season game. He's a better pianist that he is a quarterback.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
What a long, strange trip it has been
Morning all - back in Hotlanta and I think I am finally back on the Eastern Time Zone with my sleeping pattern as well.
Let me recap my last three weeks. It started at the end of June for the Red Lobster trip to Boston. We shot our SMT on a Coast Guard Cutter and it was just awesome. Last week we just launched the new RL website and chef's blog. Within a week or so, our first video casts and the video from the trip to Boston will be up. Take a look and tell me what you think about the site/pages.
From Boston, came home for 36 hours and then left for Israel. If you haven't read my past posts from that great trip, start on July 1 and read on. Just an incredible trip from our experiences with Wexner to our anniversary (7th) to my birthday. For those of you scoring at home, I am the exact same age as Red Lobster. Anyone know that answer? How about my Jack Benny reference in my past post? OK, the answer is 39. Next year is a biggie according to most folks - to me ... it's another year on the planet and that is all I ask for.
That being said, there will be a few special occasions throughout the year to celebrate. Details to come down the road, but I can tell you two places to look for me ... and both are so obvious: Las Vegas and Chicago. Might have to throw a stop in Denver for the Frozen Four for the first time in a few years.
OK - so back to the travel month from hell. I came home from Israel for three and a half days and then hit the road to Los Angeles for GCI Digital Media meetings this past week. Stayed at a great hotel called Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, but didn't get to really spend much time there as we were in a conference room most of our waking time.
But I was able to close out my trip in big time style. Left the meetings around noon and headed to meet a good friend Justin Simon, who interned for me at CNNSI.com (by the way, CNNSI.com launched 10 years ago this past week! Man time flies). Justin has been working on this idea for a long time and I have been helping him as best I can for a few years. At lunch he brought me his idea packaged and ready to go - it's called AlwaysLit. It's a product for smokers - it attaches your lighter to your pack of cigarettes, bong or pipe. The idea is that you won't lose your lighters anymore. Going to be a huge hit - check it out on the website and buy some. The price is $5 per unit. So excited!
From there - off to see the Stanley Cup with David McNab and his family. What an incredible afternoon this was. Kari threw the party at their community clubhouse and it was just a beautiful area and a great day. David's roommate from college and now Denver coach George Gwozdecky was there with his daughter for the day and we had a blast.
The highlight for me is the picture you see below of the McNab boys. David to the left, Max his dad, who won the cup with the Red Wings in the 50s and his brother Peter, who lost three times in the finals. Peter wouldn't touch the cup because of tradition/superstition and had to explain to his girls why he wouldn't, but said that because their uncle won it, they could touch it.
You can see all the photos from the day with the cup at my Photoworks page. There will be more coming as David had the team photographer there as well and we took a picture of David, George and me with the cup. Can't wait to see that one!
From there, I grabbed a red eye back to Atlanta and was home Friday morning. When I got in my car, it hit me what an awesome ride I just had and how lucky I was for all of it.
OK - about to get the kids up and going for a fun Daddy Daughter Day ... have no idea where to, but it's just great to go anywhere with them.
Let me recap my last three weeks. It started at the end of June for the Red Lobster trip to Boston. We shot our SMT on a Coast Guard Cutter and it was just awesome. Last week we just launched the new RL website and chef's blog. Within a week or so, our first video casts and the video from the trip to Boston will be up. Take a look and tell me what you think about the site/pages.
From Boston, came home for 36 hours and then left for Israel. If you haven't read my past posts from that great trip, start on July 1 and read on. Just an incredible trip from our experiences with Wexner to our anniversary (7th) to my birthday. For those of you scoring at home, I am the exact same age as Red Lobster. Anyone know that answer? How about my Jack Benny reference in my past post? OK, the answer is 39. Next year is a biggie according to most folks - to me ... it's another year on the planet and that is all I ask for.
That being said, there will be a few special occasions throughout the year to celebrate. Details to come down the road, but I can tell you two places to look for me ... and both are so obvious: Las Vegas and Chicago. Might have to throw a stop in Denver for the Frozen Four for the first time in a few years.
OK - so back to the travel month from hell. I came home from Israel for three and a half days and then hit the road to Los Angeles for GCI Digital Media meetings this past week. Stayed at a great hotel called Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, but didn't get to really spend much time there as we were in a conference room most of our waking time.
But I was able to close out my trip in big time style. Left the meetings around noon and headed to meet a good friend Justin Simon, who interned for me at CNNSI.com (by the way, CNNSI.com launched 10 years ago this past week! Man time flies). Justin has been working on this idea for a long time and I have been helping him as best I can for a few years. At lunch he brought me his idea packaged and ready to go - it's called AlwaysLit. It's a product for smokers - it attaches your lighter to your pack of cigarettes, bong or pipe. The idea is that you won't lose your lighters anymore. Going to be a huge hit - check it out on the website and buy some. The price is $5 per unit. So excited!
From there - off to see the Stanley Cup with David McNab and his family. What an incredible afternoon this was. Kari threw the party at their community clubhouse and it was just a beautiful area and a great day. David's roommate from college and now Denver coach George Gwozdecky was there with his daughter for the day and we had a blast.
The highlight for me is the picture you see below of the McNab boys. David to the left, Max his dad, who won the cup with the Red Wings in the 50s and his brother Peter, who lost three times in the finals. Peter wouldn't touch the cup because of tradition/superstition and had to explain to his girls why he wouldn't, but said that because their uncle won it, they could touch it.
You can see all the photos from the day with the cup at my Photoworks page. There will be more coming as David had the team photographer there as well and we took a picture of David, George and me with the cup. Can't wait to see that one!
From there, I grabbed a red eye back to Atlanta and was home Friday morning. When I got in my car, it hit me what an awesome ride I just had and how lucky I was for all of it.
OK - about to get the kids up and going for a fun Daddy Daughter Day ... have no idea where to, but it's just great to go anywhere with them.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
A Day with Stanley
Greetings from Yorba Linda, California. There are days in your life that you will always remember - today was one of those days.
I had the pleasure and honor of going to David McNab's Stanley Cup party. His bride, Kari, put together a beautiful party at their clubhouse of their community.
The party started at 3 pm with close friends and family. Thankfully, I fit into that category and got there early. When I arrived, it was great to see David, Kari and their girls, Ali and Erica.
Some of you know the story of Ali's boyfriend, who got drunk for the first time ever the night the Ducks won the cup. Got to meet him and he's a great kid. He laughed when David told him I knew the story.
I took a few more steps in and I saw another old friend George Gwozdecky and his daughter Adrienne. Gwoz and McNab have known each other since 73 when their were freshmen at Wisconsin together. Gwoz has won at every level he has been at and he won't touch the cup because he might win it someday.
Adrienne took a sip of champagne from the cup as did David's girls and it was awesome. McNab let anyone drink from the trophy and it was awesome to watch.
It was also great to see David's father Max, who won the cup with the Red Wings in 1950 and his brother Peter, who lost the cup three times in the finals. Peter didn't touch the cup as well - but he let his girls touch it.
Then at 6 p.m. David let a bunch of folks from his community and the girls friends. He spoke about how this isn't going to be a crazy party - but a respectful one because of the cup. I couldn't agree with him more.
During the night great hockey songs were being played. Best of the night was the Brass Bonanza - McNab worked for the Whalers and the girls love the song. It is a classic among classics.
It was my third night where I have been around the cup and it's better each time. This is better because David waited 29 years to have this night and I am so happy I could crash it!!!
What an incredible night.... Pics will be up later.
Off to party more with Stanley before catching the 11:55 p.m. Delta back to the ATL!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
California Dreamin'
Hey - sitting in Santa Monica and the weather is great. Staying at The Shutters and it's right on the beach - just an awesome property. Highly recommend if you head out this way.
In Digital Media meetings today and tomorrow and have a great story to tell about Thursday.
For those regular readers, you know hockey is my passion outside my family and friends. You also know that my friend, David McNab, is the assistant general manager of the Anaheim Ducks. They just won Lord Stanley's Cup and each member of the team gets a day with the cup.
Amazingly - I get off the plane in LA and David is calling me. It just so happens that Nabber's day with the Cup is Thursday. As in this week when I am here!!!! He tells me that he wants me to come to his party and drink from the Cup.
Karma baby! My beautiful bride gives me the OK to take the redeye so I can go spend the day with the one thing she knows I love that isn't my family.
OK - back to meetings..... Off to Santa Monica Pier later.
Pics with me and Lord Stanley on Friday!!!
Monday, July 16, 2007
Consistency is why Bonds is where he is
We should be getting ready to celebrate the passing of one of the greatest numbers in sports within the next month or so. The home run record is about to fall. This should be a happy occasion that all of us at the water coolers should be celebrating and laughing about.
But for the most part, America isn't laughing. Most of us baseball fans are angry that one of the greatest records in sports is going to go into the hands of an absolute ass.
Sorry, I wish there was a better word in the English language to describe Barry Bonds, but there isn't. He is what he is. He has never made any bones about it either. He was not kind before the steroid era and he's gotten worse since he started taking whatever he told us he isn't taking.
Defenders of Bonds? Are you there? Watch the video from yesterday's game and see the two-faces of a great baseball player. He signs a ball for a fan because that's what the whole team does before the game and then after he berates a sportswriter in the locker room.
"It's an embarrassment for me to be wearing this [expletive deleted] uniform 'cause of the way I'm playing. There, that's it. Now go away," Bonds said at his locker.
Look, I understand that going hit less in a series you got swept in can bother you, but this isn't his first rodeo. He has done this crap on a regular basis and therefore deserves the public scrutiny.
Here's something to ponder. If Ken Griffey, Jr. stays healthy and is neck and neck with Bonds right now for the record, could Bonds be a bigger ass than he already is? I guarantee that 95% of the country would be cheering for Junior to break the record first.
As if that weren't enough, Bonds is going to break the record of a great man named Henry Aaron. The Hammer had death threats and all kinds of garbage that he had to go through because of racial tension in our country. He was graceful and decent throughout it all and now his record is going to fall to a cheater and an ass.
It just isn't right. Bonds may be a great baseball player, but he doesn't deserve to wear this crown and own this record. Sorry Bud Selig - but sleep well, it's on your head and your watch that all of this has gone down. When you are dead and buried we will be cursing you for turning a blind eye to the Steroid Era that put Bonds over the top. Bonds may get a standing ovation when he hits 756, but you should take a bow as well for helping him.
The saddest part of all of this is that now I have to cheer for Alex Rodriguez to catch up to Bonds. He's the only one that can catch him and if my choice is between the two, I would choose the Yankee (or whatever he will be next season) or the cheater.
Somewhere Babe Ruth is laughing and having another beer and cigar.
But for the most part, America isn't laughing. Most of us baseball fans are angry that one of the greatest records in sports is going to go into the hands of an absolute ass.
Sorry, I wish there was a better word in the English language to describe Barry Bonds, but there isn't. He is what he is. He has never made any bones about it either. He was not kind before the steroid era and he's gotten worse since he started taking whatever he told us he isn't taking.
Defenders of Bonds? Are you there? Watch the video from yesterday's game and see the two-faces of a great baseball player. He signs a ball for a fan because that's what the whole team does before the game and then after he berates a sportswriter in the locker room.
"It's an embarrassment for me to be wearing this [expletive deleted] uniform 'cause of the way I'm playing. There, that's it. Now go away," Bonds said at his locker.
Look, I understand that going hit less in a series you got swept in can bother you, but this isn't his first rodeo. He has done this crap on a regular basis and therefore deserves the public scrutiny.
Here's something to ponder. If Ken Griffey, Jr. stays healthy and is neck and neck with Bonds right now for the record, could Bonds be a bigger ass than he already is? I guarantee that 95% of the country would be cheering for Junior to break the record first.
As if that weren't enough, Bonds is going to break the record of a great man named Henry Aaron. The Hammer had death threats and all kinds of garbage that he had to go through because of racial tension in our country. He was graceful and decent throughout it all and now his record is going to fall to a cheater and an ass.
It just isn't right. Bonds may be a great baseball player, but he doesn't deserve to wear this crown and own this record. Sorry Bud Selig - but sleep well, it's on your head and your watch that all of this has gone down. When you are dead and buried we will be cursing you for turning a blind eye to the Steroid Era that put Bonds over the top. Bonds may get a standing ovation when he hits 756, but you should take a bow as well for helping him.
The saddest part of all of this is that now I have to cheer for Alex Rodriguez to catch up to Bonds. He's the only one that can catch him and if my choice is between the two, I would choose the Yankee (or whatever he will be next season) or the cheater.
Somewhere Babe Ruth is laughing and having another beer and cigar.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Alarming welcome back
So last night we put the kids to bed at 8 p.m. and we went to sleep at 8:20. We were just wiped out ... we started to catch up on television that we missed, but fell asleep in the first minutes of watching.
At 3:15 a.m. the house alarm went off saying their was a fire in the basement. I went flying out of bed scared half to death and the kids never woke up. Not even a peep from them. Luckily, there was no such fire and I searched the whole house and everything was fine.
ADT called and everything was cool except the woman told me that I had no zone 15 where it said there was a fire. I called this morning and I went through this exercise of trying to figure it out, but of course a technician has to come out to find out what's up.
We went back to sleep and got to sleep until about 6:15 - so we are close to being back on schedule. This trip to LA may be a bit fun for my system next week.
At 3:15 a.m. the house alarm went off saying their was a fire in the basement. I went flying out of bed scared half to death and the kids never woke up. Not even a peep from them. Luckily, there was no such fire and I searched the whole house and everything was fine.
ADT called and everything was cool except the woman told me that I had no zone 15 where it said there was a fire. I called this morning and I went through this exercise of trying to figure it out, but of course a technician has to come out to find out what's up.
We went back to sleep and got to sleep until about 6:15 - so we are close to being back on schedule. This trip to LA may be a bit fun for my system next week.
Couple of things I forgot to mention that I noticed while in Israel. First - we walked by a tattoo parlor and I laughed. You aren't allowed to be buried in a Jewish cemetery if you have one, so it's funny that there is one in Jerusalem. Still not as funny as the sign I saw years ago in Tennessee - "Tattoos while you wait." As if there was another way to do this?
The other thing is cats. There are cats EVERYWHERE in Israel walking the streets. All I could think about was the final episode of the Sopranos where the cat followed Paulie everywhere. Just funny.
Great to be back in the States - missed the kids, my bed and all the other comforts of home. It makes what my new friend, and Israeli soldier, Zach Nussbaum did that much more incredible. Here's his picture for those who wanted to see him. Keep him in your thoughts and be thankful we have kids like him on our side! Have a great weekend.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Back in the saddle ...
What a great way to start the day but landing at Hartsfield Airport. It was great to be home ... until we were randomly picked to have our bags searched. I have to tell you that the morons at the airport that run security have no clue. If you want to see how security is done right - go to Israel.
The woman who was checking us out FIRST was asking us all kinds of questions like where did you learn Hebrew - where are you from - why are you here ... and more. Then your checked bags go through a high tech machine to make sure they are clear of all issues. Then you check in and they ask more questions. You then go through security and get this - don't have to take your sneakers off. I am telling you - when you get through security there - you know you are in a safe place.
Unlike Atlanta where this moron of a woman asks me to open the suitcases and then asks me about everything I bought. Do you really think she knows what a havdalah set and a talit are????
To my liberal friends out there ... open your eyes and realize that you are wrong on security. PLEASE.
Once we got through and got out of there, I was happy. We got to the house and the girls were sooooo happy to see us and I know we were soooo happy to see them.
At the office for a little bit - hitting a wall right now, but I will fight to make it through the day.
More later....
The woman who was checking us out FIRST was asking us all kinds of questions like where did you learn Hebrew - where are you from - why are you here ... and more. Then your checked bags go through a high tech machine to make sure they are clear of all issues. Then you check in and they ask more questions. You then go through security and get this - don't have to take your sneakers off. I am telling you - when you get through security there - you know you are in a safe place.
Unlike Atlanta where this moron of a woman asks me to open the suitcases and then asks me about everything I bought. Do you really think she knows what a havdalah set and a talit are????
To my liberal friends out there ... open your eyes and realize that you are wrong on security. PLEASE.
Once we got through and got out of there, I was happy. We got to the house and the girls were sooooo happy to see us and I know we were soooo happy to see them.
At the office for a little bit - hitting a wall right now, but I will fight to make it through the day.
More later....
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Homeward Bound
Sitting at the airport in Tel Aviv. Man do these guys do security right. If Americans pulled their heads out of their you know what ... We might get it right.
By the way - I am serious about this. What good are civil liberties if you are DEAD??? I am all for profiling - NOT racial profiling - profiling for everyone. No one here questions anything for security - they know the importance of it. Why can't we as a society figure that out?? The day we do we will live a better life.
Sat by the pool this afternoon and chilled out. Weather was great - we haven't seen a cloud in the sky all week. Just beautiful. If you haven't been here - make it a priority.
Anyway - can't wait to get home. Service in Israel is pretty slow and after 11 days here - it's enough. You know it's time to leave when I cannot wait to see Delta.
OK - more later from seat 1C.
All my bags are packed ... I'm ready to go....
For those of you that are as old as I am, you remember Peter, Paul and Mary's Leavin' on a Jet Plane. Well we have about 7 more hours until we leave for the airport and as great a time as we have had here, we are ready to go home and see the girls.
Woke up and went to Yad Vashem - haven't been here since they reopened it. It's beyond words - very powerful and very scary. For those of you who know me a tiny bit, I will warn you know that I am recharged and ready to get on my projects for the Atlanta community more than ever before. And if I call you and/or email you about giving or getting involved in something, you had better be ready for me. After seeing what I have seen and studying what I have studied - don't give me excuses because I am not going to hear them.
We are living in serious times and we need serious people and I am serious about making sure our community, our children and our family in Israel get whatever they need to keep us going. L'dor V'dor - from generation to generation ... it's our time and it's our turn. As Newt Gingrich told us - what would you do or give if Israel was hit by a nuclear bomb tomorrow? Why would you even wait for tomorrow when you can try and save her and the U.S. way of life today?
If you come to Israel and don't get charged up - not sure that you ever can. To finish the song, "don't know when I'll be back again ... oh babe, I hate to go."
OK - off the soapbox for now... but I will be knocking on doors in Atlanta soon and you better answer because I won't stop until you answer our call to our mispaucha.
Some random thoughts from Israel. First, cell phones. These people all have them and NONE of them know the word vibrate. In Yad Vashem and they tell everyone to turn them off, but of course the Israelis don't care. Walking through and you can hear rings from time-to-time.
Second - driving. These people may the NY cabbies look timid. They are all nuts and they honk more than Neil Barkan ever has (mom, I ain't kidding!). They scream, they yell, they drive like madmen. You have to see this for yourself to believe it.
Third - the David Citadel hotel is a nice spot. Highly recommend it to all of you.
Fourth - went to buy a challah today at the bakery we love and they had none. Don't sell them except on Shabbat. Disappointing - but very interesting. I am sure we aren't the first ones or the last to ask for them on a non-Friday.
Lastly, the funny moment from the day. As we came down from breakfast this morning we saw Howard Friedman, AIPAC's President. He was walking with someone and he introduced Elizabeth and me to. We shook the man's hand and said hello and then they left. A minute later Howard comes back to tell me that we just met the new Prime Minister of the Palestinan Authority. Elizabeth looked at me and I looked at her and we wiped our hands off and laughed. Only Howard Friedman could pull that one off. Just classic.
OK - off to the pool for a little bit... more before we leave.
Woke up and went to Yad Vashem - haven't been here since they reopened it. It's beyond words - very powerful and very scary. For those of you who know me a tiny bit, I will warn you know that I am recharged and ready to get on my projects for the Atlanta community more than ever before. And if I call you and/or email you about giving or getting involved in something, you had better be ready for me. After seeing what I have seen and studying what I have studied - don't give me excuses because I am not going to hear them.
We are living in serious times and we need serious people and I am serious about making sure our community, our children and our family in Israel get whatever they need to keep us going. L'dor V'dor - from generation to generation ... it's our time and it's our turn. As Newt Gingrich told us - what would you do or give if Israel was hit by a nuclear bomb tomorrow? Why would you even wait for tomorrow when you can try and save her and the U.S. way of life today?
If you come to Israel and don't get charged up - not sure that you ever can. To finish the song, "don't know when I'll be back again ... oh babe, I hate to go."
OK - off the soapbox for now... but I will be knocking on doors in Atlanta soon and you better answer because I won't stop until you answer our call to our mispaucha.
Some random thoughts from Israel. First, cell phones. These people all have them and NONE of them know the word vibrate. In Yad Vashem and they tell everyone to turn them off, but of course the Israelis don't care. Walking through and you can hear rings from time-to-time.
Second - driving. These people may the NY cabbies look timid. They are all nuts and they honk more than Neil Barkan ever has (mom, I ain't kidding!). They scream, they yell, they drive like madmen. You have to see this for yourself to believe it.
Third - the David Citadel hotel is a nice spot. Highly recommend it to all of you.
Fourth - went to buy a challah today at the bakery we love and they had none. Don't sell them except on Shabbat. Disappointing - but very interesting. I am sure we aren't the first ones or the last to ask for them on a non-Friday.
Lastly, the funny moment from the day. As we came down from breakfast this morning we saw Howard Friedman, AIPAC's President. He was walking with someone and he introduced Elizabeth and me to. We shook the man's hand and said hello and then they left. A minute later Howard comes back to tell me that we just met the new Prime Minister of the Palestinan Authority. Elizabeth looked at me and I looked at her and we wiped our hands off and laughed. Only Howard Friedman could pull that one off. Just classic.
OK - off to the pool for a little bit... more before we leave.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Last tango in Jerusalem...
Well it was a great birthday. We got back from Safed and went shopping for a little bit.
After we got cleaned up we went out for dinner at Darna - a Moroccan restaurant and it was great. Only problem was that the service here is horrific. It took 2 1/2 hours for dinner. The other night we went to another place and it took 3 hours. If you order a drink at the David Citadel bar - you better have 30 minutes to wait for it. It's unreal how slow it is here - no matter where you go.
The only other issue with the trip is the showers here - for some reason they just can't figure out the drains in the shower and the water builds up and runs into the rest of the bathroom.
Otherwise - it's perfect :-)
Time for bed - one more day here and we are going to Yad Vashem and the Menachim Begin Museum as well as a few more special stops before seeing Delta on our way home to see those cute kids that we miss terribly! Our longest time away from them and I can't wait for Daddy Daughter day with Abbie this weekend.
More tomorrow and then we will see ya stateside.
After we got cleaned up we went out for dinner at Darna - a Moroccan restaurant and it was great. Only problem was that the service here is horrific. It took 2 1/2 hours for dinner. The other night we went to another place and it took 3 hours. If you order a drink at the David Citadel bar - you better have 30 minutes to wait for it. It's unreal how slow it is here - no matter where you go.
The only other issue with the trip is the showers here - for some reason they just can't figure out the drains in the shower and the water builds up and runs into the rest of the bathroom.
Otherwise - it's perfect :-)
Time for bed - one more day here and we are going to Yad Vashem and the Menachim Begin Museum as well as a few more special stops before seeing Delta on our way home to see those cute kids that we miss terribly! Our longest time away from them and I can't wait for Daddy Daughter day with Abbie this weekend.
More tomorrow and then we will see ya stateside.
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