New Ministry Induction

Heinz Chapel in Pittsburgh, PA. Heinz Chapel has 72-foot tall Stained Glass Windows, which are some of the tallest anywhere.

Copied down after silent prayer at the Grace Cathedral Episcopal Church. The signs of the Lord appear everywhere when viewing through spiritual eyes.

This is the pact a new minister makes with his Lord and Flock as well as with himself.

Book of Common Prayer

Celebration of a New Ministry

Induction (pg.562)

The new Minister, if a priest, may then kneel in the midst of the church, and may say

O Lord my God, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; yet you have called your servant to stand in your house, and to serve at your altar. To you and to your service I devote myself, body, soul, and spirit. Fill my memory with the record of your mighty works; enlighten my understanding with the light of your Holy Spirit; and may all the desires of my heart and will center in what you would have me do. Make me an instrument of your salvation for the people entrusted to my care, and grant that I may faithfully administer your holy Sacraments, and by my life and teaching set forth your true and living Word. Be always with me in carrying out the duties of my ministry. In prayer, quicken my devotion; in praises, heighten my love and gratitude: in preaching, give me readiness of thought and expression; and grant that, by the clearness and brightness of your holy Word, all the world may be drawn into your blessed kingdom. All this I ask for the sake of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Bishop then presents the new minister to the congregation saying

Greet your new Rector.

When appropriate, the family of the new minister may also be presented at this time.

The Congregation expresses its approval. Applause is appropriate. The Bishop greets the new minister.

The new Minister then says to the people

The peace of the Lord be always with you.

People........ And also with you.

The new Minister then greets other members of the clergy, family members, and the congregation.

The People greet one another.

San Jose Sharks Playoff Favorites Again

Thursday, April 14, 2011: Kings 2 Sharks 3 OT

The San Jose Sharks took game one of a seven game series against the Los Angeles Kings Tuesday at the Shark Tank. Its the National Hockey League Playoffs and the Sharks are back to finish the job they so disappointingly couldn't the past four seasons.

They've competed well these past seasons only to come up short in the conference finals. Its more than what the Golden State Warriors can say about their recent past. The Sharks have been the winningest professional sports team in the Bay Area of late if you exclude the San Jose Sabercats.

So here we are with the boys in Teal facing yet another post season. Each of them must've followed the San Franciso Giants improbable road to the championship last fall with thoughts of "If Not Now, When? If Not Us, WHo?" The time is NOW for the Sharks. Its time to ride that Bay Area magic to another championship day parade. And who better to begin against than a Los Angeles team.

If Not Now, When?

Awakening

Its not the awful moments of life that stifles our spiritual growth. Its getting caught in a cycle of re-living those awful moments. We can escape the cycle and live full and fearless life.

I came across a book by spiritualist Adyashanti titled Emptiness Dancing. The author reawakened me to the essence of God and life with a simple sentence; "The truth is that you already are what you're seeking. You are looking for God with his eyes."

Think that's deep? Check out this video if you can subdue your fear of learning ancient truths:

Barry Bonds Verdict: Obstruction Of Justice

Finally, the federal justice system can get back to investigating more important issues than professional sports steroids. Today a jury came back with an obstruction of justice verdict against former SF Giants slugger Barry Bonds. I suppose this is good news for Barry since the other three counts charging him with perjury ended in a hung jury.


I'm not the biggest of Barry fans but I truly believe there was more to this.......witch hunt than seeking justice for an alleged crime. I give Barry credit for not throwing friends and business acquaintances underneath the bus. Barry endured and now comes away with a huge legal tab. Is that justice? Maybe for those who love to see a media-made celebrity brought down by that same media.


Meanwhile, I applaud the jury for enduring this “mock” trial. They hung in there to the end and it seems they felt much like many of us about the charges against Barry; there just wasn't enough meat on those bones to justify a conviction. If only our federal legal representatives were better in touch with everyday society, maybe then those big dollars spent on this failed attempt to prosecute Barry Bonds could've gone to keeping our communities safer, our schools staffed, our homeless sheltered and our government budget better balanced.


It'll be interesting to see what path Barry's life will take now. Experts agree it’s likely that his sentence will carry nothing more than probation and the feds aren't likely to prosecute him again for the three hung counts. Will probation include a ban from major league baseball? I personally would like to see Barry in a MLB uniform one more time. Why? Because he’s endured the hunt and still can be historically considered one of the best hitters in major league baseball. Juice or no juice. Unfortunately, it’s a predator’s world, and they hate it when their prey escapes from their traps.


Bonds Verdict

Latest Raiders News

A U.S. district judge has ordered the NFL and its players to court-supervised mediation beginning this Thursday in Minneapolis. Who the Freak Cares! Bring me an agreement guaranteeing my team is on the field ready to kick butt come this September. Any other NFL news is unacceptable.

Well, there is one small piece of fantastic football news that's always acceptable and just rocks my boat. Its the Raiderette Preliminary Auditions.

The tryouts are in full swing and thank goodness the fantastic females cheerleading contracts are all one-year deals with following year favoritism I'm sure. They seem to be a lovely bunch of girls who are just happy to be there and enjoy entertaining with their brains, beauty and athleticism.

NFL cheerleaders do more than just shake their rumps on the field. They're ambassadors of the game traveling around the world and participating in humanitarian causes. They're assets to their communities and positive role models for young girls.

After all, nobody really wants to watch replacement cheerleaders attempting coordinated routines that were meant for "Real Cheerleaders." Unless of course they all look like the lustrous escort pictured above. Sorry folks, no phone number with ad.

Imagine the types of women a tryout for replacement NFL cheerleaders would lure. Pardon me, but if I wanted strippers with my football I'd watch games at Larry Flynt's Hustler's Club or Hooters. Here's a better example; ever seen a stripper who's routine was taken from her high school cheerleading squad? Exactly, you felt sorry for her and gave a tip in hopes of shooing her along.

Strippers........ I'm sorry, I mean exotic dancers, have no more business on a professional cheerleading squad than pro cheerleaders have slinking down a stripper pole at some gentlemen's club. And that's that!

So be thankful and appreciative for the dedication and hard work of the many young women chosen for an NFL cheerleading position. For if they weren't on the gridiron on Sunday, they might be at a local strip club near you, doing cartwheel splits into your lap.

I know, that was cold and uncalled for. Forgive me Lord!

Giants Receive Championship Rings - Win in 9th

Baseball season just keeps getting historic for the San Francisco Giants. Yesterday they pull out an opening day win in the bottom of the 12th. Today, after opening with a championship ring ceremony, they thwarted the St. Louis Cardinals again with a Miguel Tejada double in the bottom of the 9th.

Both winning hits came on two outs, but tonight's just seemed extra special. Trailing 2-1 with Miguel coming up to bat, who would've thought they'd pull another one out of their hat. Miguel managed to hit a double on the ninth pitch of Cardinal Ryan Franklin.

It seemed the outfielders may have misjudged the depth of the fly ball as Rasmus got his hands on it in an attempt to make a basket catch but dropped it before falling to the track. The ball rolled away and the Giants took the lead and ballgame 3-2. The call on KNBR with the crowd screaming in ecstasy was electrifying. Did I mention that Miguel Tejada does not have a ring......Yet?

Torture is feeling good once more!

Giants Still Torturing Us

Opening Day At AT&T Park

Its now the top of the 10th between the SF Giants and St. Louis Cardinals. I stopped listening after the Cards took a 4-3 lead in the top of the 9th. The Giants were one strike away from winning the game 3-2 with nobody on when closer Brian Wilson gave up walks and hits to the next 5 hitters.

The Beard was finally replaced by Ramon Ramirez with the Giants trailing. This is opening day at AT&T Park for the World Series Champions. They're truly picking up where they left off last regular season with torturous play.

At the moment it doesen't look good for the champs. Cardinals have two on with two outs in the top of the 11th. Torture Again!

Game Update: Giants Win In 12 Innings

Native American Wisdom

THE TEN NATIVE AMERICAN COMMANDMENTS:

Treat the Earth and all that dwell thereon with respect..

Remain close to the Great Spirit..

Show great respect for your fellow beings..

Work together for the benefit of all mankind..

Give assistance and kindness wherever needed..

Do what you know to be right..

Look after the well-being of mind and body..

Dedicate a share of your efforts to the greater good..

Be truthful and honest at all times..

Take full responsibility for your actions.........

UCONN Wins Sloppy Finals Game

April 2004

The NCAA Basketball Tournament had to end sooner or later, but must it end in a game played so sloppy that the halftime analysts appeared to be apologizing for talking about the game?

Halftime saw Butler ahead 22-19, but it was a halftime both teams might want to forget.The game was so ugly that I chose not to post a current pic and instead ran a 2004 Sports Ill cover of then Conneticut Huskie Emeka Okafor celebrating its second championship. Note the Ted Williams banner in Red.

The 2011 Conneticut Huskies took over in the second half and showed that they were bigger, stronger and made the necessary adjustments in order to dominate. Butler had to resort to 3-point shots because of the Huskie big man presence inside. The cinderella Bulldogs couldn't buy a shot nor defend one as they went cold and flat the rest of the way.

Final Score: Butler 41 Conneticut 53

The Hangover II

Either you saw The Hangover and thought it a silly movie about loser white guys doing things too dumb to watch, or you saw it as one of the funniest bachelor movies of the millenium and screamed for more. I screamed for more, and soon that second dose of stupid-comedy overdose pays a visit to theaters near you.

The Hangover II is slated for release this May. As with the first Hangover, there's mayhem, mystery and laughter all along the way. The first one had a tiger mysteriously appear on the scene, this one uses a monkey in what looks like an even funnier effect. Keep an eye out for Mike Tyson, he just might make another crazy cameo appearance. You gotta love Iron Mike onscreen. He makes any scene memorable.

The Hangover II
May 2012
"Remember"

Going To Champions Home Exhibition

THE CHAMP!


Tonight I get to see the Major League Baseball Champion San Francisco Giants play their first game at home since their World Series win in game two over the Texas Rangers. No, I wasn't at that game, but I watched every damn morsel of their cinderella run to the championship.

Damn......Its So Good To Be The Champ!

update: Giants Beat A's 4-3.

Book Review: Famous Libel and Slander Cases

A Democratic Right Of Speech
By W. Powell -

This little booklet details seven famous libel and slander cases throughout history, beginning with Socrates. The writing gets a bit litigous at times, but anyone with the equivalent of a high school diploma can follow the cases.

This book is important in that it shows us how thankful we should be to those in the past who sacrificed themselves in courts of law so that future generations could enjoy freedoms of expression in a free democratic society. While reading the case of libel against Thomas Cooper I was made aware of the Amercian Sedition Act of 1798 and the alien laws of that period.

Mr. Cooper, newspaper editor, politician and scientist, took a stand against charges of libel for printing articles thought damaging to then president of the United States, John Adams. Mr. Cooper's decision to fight the charges of libel was not because he wasn't guilty under the law, but that he felt any law making it criminal to question the capacity of a President to carry out his functions as commander in chief, was a tyrannical law in a democracy.

Did you know that in 1800 you could be fined and jailed for saying or printing anything that put the President of the U.S. in a bad light? Mr. Cooper knew this and yet and still he challenged the law that forbid his right to say and print what he felt was the public's right to know.

This book reminds me of a famous quote I once heard somewhere: "I may disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it."


Know Your First Amendment Rights and Those Who Defended it.
First Collier Books Edition 1962 (paperback)

WIll The Real Cinderfella Please Stand Up

Move the hell over Butler Bulldogs, the Virgnia Commonwealth Rams are crashing the final four as a #11 seed looking to get the girl, the watch and the gold ring.

VCU stunned #1 seed Kansas Jayhawks with a barrage of three pointers, outstanding guard play and hustle defense in what may go down as the BIGGEST UPSET in NCAA Tournament history.

They'll go to the semifinals in Houston,Tx. to face the #8 seed Bulldogs of Butler, who've also made believers of many doubters, to see who's fairy godfather brewed the better potion.

Here's the incredible part about VCU; with the tournament expanding to 68 teams, VCU played an additional game, one they weren't expected to win.

I don't know about you, but I'm clearing my calendar for April 2nd, 6:09PM ET. That's when two cindefellas will tip-off to see which stays on the ballroom dance floor and which must leave the ball immediately and stumble home in one sneaker, a brokendown ride and ugly stepbrothers waiting to torment them about their loss.

The Madness of March can be so rewarding, and yet so cruel.

Best Of Oakland Raiders 2010-11

This youtube video has to be the best in quality and content of the Oakland Raiders 2010 football season. The plays, the fans and the accompanying music make for a creative collage of silver and black highlights.

Based on how the NFL players and owners contract talks are going, I'd say we better soak in all the good stuff from last season, because it could be a time before we see the real deal again.

Inside Job - Oscar Worthy Documentary

Chris Ferguson, producer and director of the movie "Inside Job" spoke at the commonwealth club. He breaks down how Synthetic CDO's and other unethical investment practices, allowed Goldman Sachs and other banking institutions to market an investment package and then bet heavily against its success .

The Financial Crisis was an inside job.

A Fredo Moment

Butler Coach Wanted

If you were around watching the MLB baseball playoffs in 2003 then you know the unfortunate story of Chicago native Steve Bartman and his cursed Cubs.


Steve Bartman, after interfering with a questionably catchable foul ball at Wrigley Field, was blamed for the Cubs losing the game and series. He was a marked man in Chicago and Cubs fans still claim to want a piece of him.

When I opened my newspaper this morning and saw a picture of Butler Basketball Coach Brad Stevens, I thought I'd found the wanted man and was ready to collect the reward. After all, my California lottery ticket didn't pan out in last night's $300 milllion-dollar drawing. I figured this must be God's way of opening one door after another has closed.

But this post isn't about past frustrations, oh no. This post is to congratulate Coach Bartman......I mean Coach Stevens for guiding his squad past #2 seed Florida in an elite-8 classic. The Butler Bulldogs will advance to the Final Four once more, and coach Stevens is at this moment the hottest coach on the planet. With defense and a collective calm while weathering many storms, the #8 seed Butler Bulldogs survived overtime to celebrate a 74-71 victory.

Meanwhile, Cubs fans are on the case and requesting proof of Brad Stevens personal, as well as professional history. After all, the Bartman was a little league baseball coach at the time of his......crime against humanity.

Catch Butler coach Brad Stevens as he heads to the NCAA Final Four

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/recap?gameId=310850057

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/03/26/SPTB1IJSU4.DTL

FoodMatters - A Must See

I wrote this review after watching this "must-see" documentary about food. Its basic message is very clear; you are what you eat. Discovering that foods we eat can be poisonous, then learning that medicines we take can be poisonous, its no wonder so many people in one of the richest countries ever are suffering from health related issues.

Here's my take after watching this thought provoking documentary:


Foodmatters
DVD ~ Andrew W. Saul

Ingest This Important Healthcare Information, March 16, 2011

This movie is about taking direct action toward curing illness and living healthier lives through nutritional eating and vitamins. I don't know how anyone could view the information shared as quackery. What "FoodMatters" teaches viewers is that what we eat is directly related to our health. The part that will blow you away is the revelation that prescribed and over the counter medicines can be posioneous to our health.

In these times of unaffordable healthcare its comforting to learn that we can limit and possibly prevent serious illness by educating ourselves on proper nutrition. But to benefit from the information and methods shared in this documentary will take a concentrated effort by those willing to follow the advice. The choice is all yours.

I noticed that unlike the many medicine and drug advertisments aired nonstop on television, good nutrition does not use scare tactics to prove its curing effects. Good nutrition proves itself by awarding you with a healthier happier life. Foodmatters is not trying to sell you anything. Its a healing program that'll open your eyes if you haven't already crowned your doctor a messiah.

Invest in your health, its the one commodity that cannot be bought with dollars or replaced when broken.

Tai Chi Chuan

The Spaniard

In the sport of boxing there's one true means by which to measure the effectiveness of a boxer's skills. That being, can he knock MoFo's out? Its not a matter of putting on a pugilistic clinic so much as overpowering his enemy that gives boxers indestructible reputations.

Fans in the past crowded around to watch Iron Mike Tyson not because of his footwork or clever use of the ring. Folks enjoyed watching Mike simply because he knocked Mofo's out. It was quick and it was brutal. There was no "sweet science" in the method of Mike Tyson. Brute force entered the ring, brute force laid out its opponent then left the ring. End of story. Those were the days.

I don't think we'll ever see another Mike Tyson. But tonight I saw a boxer who mixes both speed and power with a brute sort of force. His style is a bit unorthodox yet he measures up to what we see as pound-for-pound greatness. Tonight the commentators pointed out his ability to "out jab the jabber" in beating an opponent, who's known for his superior jabbing skills, to the punch. They also compared his juking style and handspeed to that of Roy Jones, Jr. Just so happens that Roy was in the booth and agreed with the comparion, taking it as a compliment.

The boxer with such enduring stamina, lightening quickness and knockout power in both hands hails from Argentina and now resides in Oxnard, California. He defended his WBC Middleweight Championship belt against Ukrainian challenger Sergiy Dzindziruk. He won by TKO in round 8 after knocking Dzindziruk down 5 times in the fight. He showed yet again his courageous fearlessness in going after his opponent with unbridled abandon.

His two previous fights against Kelly Pavlik and Paul Williams both ended with crushing knockouts of the two. Knockouts you'll find on any of boxing's best of the year highlights. Ring Magazine named him their 2010 Fighter of the Year. After seeing him tonight I'd have to agree with ring magazine. With each knockout it seems he gains more confidence. After his win tonight he welcomed as challengers Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.

So who's this Argentine boxer I've labeled "The Spaniard?"

He's thirty-six year old Sergio Martinez. He's a champion who's hungry to show that he belongs in the ring with the best. There's something I see in the spaniard that makes me think one day he'll shock the boxing world. Maybe his will to win is so strong because he's past the prime age for boxing. Whatever it is that drives the spaniard with such a vengeance, it sure has us boxing fans craving for more. We simply can't wait to see him knockout the next MoFo!

Sergio Gabriel Martinez

47 Wins

26 Knockouts

2 Losses

2 Draws

0 No Contests

Iowa Cycloned By Marist Women's Squad

The 10th seeded Marist Red Foxes dominated their first round NCAA tournament opponent Iowa State, winning 74-64. The Cyclones came in as a No. 7 seed, but that didn't phase the Red Foxes who now sport a 27-game winning streak and move on to face the No. 2 seed Duke Blue Devils.

This just shows that the NCAA can't possibly get all the seedings right when putting together a national college tournament.

Many around college women's basketball thought that Marist should have been ranked higher and Iowa State lower. Their meeting in Durham, N.C. today, with a half-time score of 40-25 favoring Marist, put a reverse spin on the ranking system as it was Iowa State that played with potential upset aspirations while Marist simply played like...............Red Foxes; smart and cunning with hightened defensive instincts.

Congratulations Marist On Your First Round Victory. Now ignore the rankings and go slay us some Blue Devils.


Marist is a "Independent Coeducational Liberal Arts College" with 5,000 students on its Poughkeepsie, New York main campus overlooking the historic hudson river and valley. The area is full of breathtaking scenic views during the fall season foilage.

This Is Madness!

Listen, and understand. Its out there.

It can't be bargained with.

It can't be reasoned with.

It doesn't feel pity, or remorse, or fear.

And it absolutely will not stop, ever, until...

NCAA March Madness is in full swing and the basketball games are whipping by at a terminating pace. There's something for everyone when it comes to college basketball; upsets, controversial calls, buzzer beaters and true cinderella stories. Its a basketball marathon and the last one dancing gets the glory. And we get to watch it all.

So don't let go of that remote control or you might not get it back from your sweetie. Unless of course you talked her into filling out a bracket. Trust me, it works!

PITT

They Wanna Fock With Us Fans!

Does the NFL think we fans are going to take this football strike lying down? I say we fans should Organize and Financially Terrorize any and all businesses affiliated in any way with the NFL.

I've been calmly praying and hoping that the NFL owners and its players would come to terms and work out a deal. I figured there's enough money to go around for all, its just a matter of agreeing to how they'll slice it up. Then when I got my season ticket renewal request, reminding me how much I annually contribute to these clowns, I got angry.

The NFL is billing me months in advance for a product they cannot deliver today. Ever buy something from a television or newspaper ad where they guarantee satisfaction or your money back? Isn't there always a catch? Well fellow fans, the NFL appears to be doing just that this season; marketing a flawed product with no concern for the sucker placing the order.

What fans need to remember is this: Much of that Pie owners and players will be slicing into is OUR money. Through contracts, sponsors and affiliates fans are supporting NFL owners and players without even buying a ticket to the game.

I came across an article by Susan Milligan on USNEWS website titled:

Football Fans and NFL Cities Should Go On Strike

I chose to comment on the article and share it here with Raider Nation and all football fans. If we have to suffer a loss, they should suffer a loss. Yes, an eye for an eye is what's in order for this situation. Below is my comment:

I agree that fans should hit the owners and players where it hurts, in their pockets. I learned years ago a strategy of protest that might just work here.

Most owners and many players are owners, partners or investors in other businesses. If fans put together a list of businesses associated with NFL owners and players, they can boycott the products of those businesses.

You think sponsors dropped Tiger Woods like a hot potato, wait'll affiliated businesses of the NFL see a drop in sales and investments. Watch as television & satellite affiliates begin suing the NFL because Fans are cancelling subscriptions due to the NFL's negligent behavior.

There's more fans than owners and players, it would definitely get their attention. We fans have much more power than we realize. The key is to organize and act with a tactical purpose.

Boycott NFL Products and affiliated businesses. Organize!

Singer/Songstress Lizz Wright

From Lizz Wright's Album "The Orchard"
Flamenco, Jazz and Blues Intertwined

The Smartest Woman I Know

Ever hear somone talking, whether in person or on televison or radio, and it dawns on you just how smart the person is? Kinda makes you wonder if your own intelligence quotient might be lower than you'd proudly thought, maybe closer to the level of a let's say........ Fredo Corleone of The Godfather fame? Well I had one of those moments while listening to international economist Dr. Dambisa Moyo.

A former consultant for the World Bank and former emerging markets investment banker at Goldman Sachs, Moyo was named by Time Magazine as one of the "100 Most Influential People in the World

Dr. Moyo was born in Zambia and educated abroad in the West. Her accent and look almost resemble what I thought that of entertainer Mary J. Blige. She's hip and has a sleek feminine body that can wear out a taut fitting dress or business suit. Yes, Dr. Moyo's got style. But unlike so many of our stylish covergirls of today its her Intelligence, not her looks, that she is known and praised for.

Now and then while up early in the AM hours I'll listen to a radio broadcast of the San Francisco Common wealth club's guest speaker for the evening. Yeah, I know, what's the commonwealth got to do with sports? Nadda! But for us Fredo's of the world we don't come up short for lack of effort. We can sometimes hear "Smaart."

I tuned in this morning and heard this Brooklyn-British accented woman break down the state of global economics along with the past, present and future of Western economies. Though she used some words we may only find in a mathamatician's dictionary, her delivery was down to earth and decipherable to the most challenged of Fredo's tuning in. Okay, maybe not all of it.

A New York Times Best Selling author, Dr. Moyo was in San Francisco in Feb. 2011, to discuss the content of her second book; "How The West Was Lost." She points out how China has become a manufacturing colossus and their products are admired and welcomed throughout Africa. She's a great teacher and breaks it all down. She's also been on the inside of the financial institutions.

I'm sure there are many smart and beautiful women in the world doing their parts to bring awareness and new ideas to the masses, but Dr. Dambisa Moyo appeals to that Fredo Corleone part of me, who when not throwing down shots and chasing skirts in Las Vegas with Mo Green, enjoys listening to a good early morning radio talk on current events and issues.

A Fredo Moment!

Click on links below to listen to Flora.TV broadcast of Dr. Dambisa Moyo:

Dead Aid (highlights of the hoover institution series)Dr. Moyo argues that foreign aid has harmed Africa and that it should be phased out. The book offers proposals for developing countries to finance development, instead of relying on foreign aid. She argues that foreign aid helps perpetuate the cycle of poverty and hinders economic growth in Africa

How The West Was Lost (Commonwealth club)Moyo daringly claims that the West can no longer afford to simply regard global up-and-comers as menacing gatecrashers. In a world where Western economies hover on the brink of recession while emerging economies post double-digit growth rates, Moyo calls out the economic myopia of the West and the radical solutions that it needs to adopt to salvage its global economic power

Showing Dodgers What Champions Look Like

The World Series Champion San Francisco Giants overcame a Andre Ethier bases loaded triple today in a comeback win over their Los Angeles Dodgers rival.

The Champions are still on fire, with the best MLB record (13-4) of spring training. Beating the Dodgers is always special, I don't care what the circumstances. But to do it with smashing long balls and comeback scoring against the bums in blue in the ninth inning is just awesome.

If you haven't seen Pat "The Bat" Burrell's two run blast you're cheating yourself. His swing definitely has a Will "The Thrill" Clark flavor to it. Cody Ross had two out of the park home runs as well as the Giants gave the Dodgers a preview of what to expect come this season.

Final
LA 7
SF 8

CHUCKY"S BACK!

Not the old Chuckster Jon Gruden, but the Seed of Chucky is named the Oakland Raiders Defensive Coordinator.

Chuck Bresnahan returns to the Raiders after stints with the Cincinnati Bengals and the United Football League's Florida Tuskers. In three seasons his Bengals defenses never ranked higher than 25th in yards allowed, a definite concern. His Tusker teams went to the two UFL championship games, losing both times to the Las Vegas Locos.

From 2000-2003, Seed of Chucky was sprouting under Gruden as Defensive Coordinator of a Raiders team that dominated mostly with an offensive juggernaut comprised of legendary weapons. His last game with the Oakland Raiders was that Super Bowl down I-5 South that we all choose to forget.

So we'll have to wait and see this season if former DC Jon Marshall will be sorely missed or barely a memory in the eyes of fans as Chucky leads the defense into battle.

Welcome Back Chucky!

Oakland Raiders San Diego Smash 2010

Week 7 Oakland Raiders vs Denver Broncos 10-24-2010 HD Highlights


Oakland Raiders top 10 of 2010

DMAC 2010-11 Highlights

Get Rich Slick - OIL

CHEVRON Corporation and the South American indigenous peoples of Ecuador are in the final rounds of their fistfight, a fight that never should have taken place.

Why? Because an Ecuadoran court has already ruled against Chevron and in favor of the Ecuadoreans. The judgment was for $9.6 billion dollars. The court could have imposed $28 billion.

But when you're a big bullying oil corporation with multinational business contacts and loads of money for buying international justice, GUILTY verdicts are technicalities to be ridiculed, downplayed, ignored then finally twisted into a shyster's legal term: Shakedown.

Here's the skinny:

30,000 Ecuadoreans sued Chevron for extensive environmental damage caused by 20 years (1972-1992) of oil drilling operations, which have sickened thousands of Ecuadorians and polluted the Amazon rainforest. Since 1993, lawyers representing local residents have sought to force former well operator Texaco and its now parent company Chevron Corporation to clean the area known as the Lago Agrio oil field and to provide for the care of those allegedly affected.

Texaco claimed that in 1995 the Ecuadorean government, a oil drilling partner with a 25% interest in the partnership, released them from further liability after Texaco agreed to clean a number of waste pits in proportion to its interest in the partnership, at a cost of $40 million. Numerous sources show the remediation efforts to have been largely cosmetic.


We could say that this is just the unfortunate repercussion of a poor country getting in bed with a shysty Oil drilling business. The old biblical term "you reap what you sow" prophetically comes to mind.

The really scary part of it all is the P-O-W-E-R the oil companies have and their influence over international litigating parties. Any person, government or formed group such as a corporation should be made accountable for their actions in a court of law, or else what good is law other than to serve the powerful in oppression and control of the powerless.

Is it possible the legal courts worldwide are on the take?

American U.S. District Judge Martin Feldman in New Orleans ordered federal regulators to act on seven drilling permit applications this past week, overturning a presidential moratorium on deepwater drilling after BP's oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. President Obama's administration has appealed Feldman's order and filed court documents paving the way for regulators to deny such applications.

From Judgepedia.org:
After the ruling by Feldman, his investments and stocks were analyzed, showing that in 2009 he held stocks of companies that would be affected by his ruling. Judge Feldman insists that he found out about these holdings on June 21, and contacted his broker to sell them on the morning of June 22. According to the Wall Street Journal, "Under federal law, federal judges are prohibited from deciding cases in which they have financial interests in the parties or the outcome of the case. They are also prohibited from deciding cases in which there is the appearance of a conflict." [6] Because of the questions surrounding the status of his financial holdings, environmental groups have asked that Feldman recuse himself from the case and suspend his ruling. [7]

Feldman announced that he will not recuse himself from the case, saying, "The motion for disqualification is without merit." [8]

In the infamous words of Malcolm X: "Chickens Coming Home To Roost"

Huffington Post: Ecuador Another Victory

Raiderlegend: The Devil's Excrement

Chevron Guilty

Activist Tim Christopher Disrupts Oil Deal

Shock Corridor - Superbly Acted 1963 Drama

This classic black and white drama directed by Sam Fuller is still powerful and moving. Its productions like "Shock Corridor" that keep me reaching back to the silver screen era of my parents to quench my thirst for tasty movie watching.

Here's my amazon.com review for this classic:

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Black Man Convincingly Plays Role Of Racist Southerner

This review is from: Shock Corridor - Criterion Collection (DVD)

This movie just may be too "Shocking" for many viewers, even nearly fifty years after its release. Director Sam Fuller touches on many American taboos as usual, with the main theme being mental illness. When I saw Fuller's controversial movie "White Dog," its 1982 release of which was suppressed by paramount pictures, I knew him to be a man marching to the beat of his own drum.

In Shock Corridor, Fuller uses a sane journalist to expose the insane issues that haunt America's past, present and future. He accomplishes this by placing the undercover journalist inside a mental institution, faking insanity while trying to find a killer inside the place. While tactfully gathering evidence from mental patients about the killing, the journalist gets acquainted with the men and the societal issues that led to their being committed to the "hospital."

The humor in this movie is one that makes you laugh to keep from bursting out in tears. A forerunner to "One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest." To see a Black man so damaged by society's racism that he insanely believes himself to be a southern White racist, is so sad and yet so convincing in the directorship of Sam Fuller. Watch this movie for that performance if for no other, simply because you'll never see it anywhere else. You'll learn how thin the thread of sanity is and how easily it can snap under pressure.

A great movie that will hopefully one day get its full share of masterpiece recognition.

San Jose Sharks Lurking In NHL Waters

The Bay Area's San Jose Sharks are in the midst of a seven game winning streak. They are leading the Pacific Division and second only to the Detroit Red Wings in the Western Conference.

Its time to start supporting our Sharks as they hit the home stretch of the NHL hockey season. We know they've disappointed in recent playoffs, but with the San Francisco Giants showing all Bay Area teams how to bring home the hardware, this could be the year of the Sharks.

I must admit, I haven't watched one hockey game all season and I couldn't name a Sharks player if you tied me down and tortured me. But I know the team and the fans are hungering for a Stanley Cup and the time is ripe in the Bay Area for them to deliver it.

Puck the Red Wings.

Let's Go Sharks!

Season Finish Playoffs
2005–06 2nd, Pacific Lost in Conference Semifinals, 2-4 (Oilers)
2006–07 2nd, Pacific Lost in Conference Semifinals, 2-4 (Red Wings)
2007–08 1st, Pacific Lost in Conference Semifinals, 2-4 (Stars)
2008–09 1st, Pacific Lost in Conference Quarterfinals, 2-4 (Ducks)
2009–10 1st, Pacific Lost in Conference Finals, 0-4 (Blackhawks)
2010–11 Championship?

The First Thing You're Given In Heaven? A Mirror

This cartoon depicting Michael Jackon's arrival in heaven was controversial in its disrespect toward an American music icon. But we should pray that heaven overlooks our earthly shortcomings, whatever they may be, and that it has a humorous side in accepting all of us imperfect sinners.

Here's a poem my sister received from my brother and passed on to me. It shows that we should be less judgmental about the sins of others and more focused on the forgiveness of our own.:

I was shocked, confused, bewildered

As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,

Nor the lights or its decor.

But it was the folks in Heaven

Who made me sputter & gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,

The alcoholics & the trash.

There stood the kid from 7th grade

Who swiped my lunch money twice!
Next to him was my old neighbor

Who never said anything nice!

Herb, who I always thought

was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud 9,

Looking incredibly well.

I nudged Jesus,"What's the deal"?

I would love to hear your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?

God must've made a mistake.

And why is everyone so quiet,

So somber-give me a clue.
"Hush, child" He said "

They're all in shock!! No one thought

they'd be seeing YOU"!!!!~

Every Saint has a past....Every sinner has a Future~ (Judge Not)

Why Freedom Of Speech Must Prevail

from the movie "Nothing But The Truth"

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution grants its citizens the right to "Freedom of Speech." This right to speak freely, without censorship, limitation or both extends to nonverbal acts of seeking, receiving and imparting information or ideas. It was probably chosen as the first because of its importance in the establishment and continuancy of a free democracy.

As we see citizens of countries in the Arab world risking lives to express their anger and frustration toward their governments, we in the United States should be thankful that the founding fathers of this nation had the forethought to include such a freedom as Free Speech in our constitution.

Our First Amendment right hasn't always been honorably upheld in this country, but I shudder to think where we'd be without it today. For it is a necessary protective shield against a government's abuse of power over those it governs. It forces the powerful to be "Accountable" for actions that may negatively effect the powerless. The Internet as we know it today could never have evolved without a First Amendment foundation.

In the movie clip above, actor Alan Alda's plea to the supreme court to rule in favor of his client's right to "Freedom of Speech" in a case where National Security may have been threatened is superb.

Latest News: Pennsylvannia Judge guilty of racketeering

The Filipino Flash Knocks Out Mexican Bantamweight Champion

Boxing Champion Nonito Donaire won his third division title with a crushing left hook knockout over WBO & WBC bantamweight champion Fernando Montiel of Mexico. The knockout punch came 2:05 into the second round and it was a showstopper.

Donaire, nicknamed the "Filipino Flash," born in the Philipines but raised in San Lorenzo, California is definitely a boxer to keep an eye on. He has speed, power and ring smarts. He says he sees everything in the ring before it happens. The proof is in the knockout of Montiel. Wow!

Congratulations Nonito on your successful bid for another championship belt!

The Gift That Keeps On Giving!

Its Good To Be THE CHAMP!

Seymour Signs Up For 2 More Years

Oakland Raiders Defensive Lineman Richard Seymour must see something lucrative in the Silver & Black organization besides dollar signs to cause him to jog back to the huddle for another tour-of-duty. Then again, maybe not.

The purported 2-year $30 million, of which $22.5 million is guaranteed, he'll get for staying the course with a rebuilding Raiders team is said to be the highest for any defensive player, annually, in the league. Is he worth it?

Richard Seymour has brought more to the Raiders defense than any player not named Asomugha in the past seven seasons. Al Davis said it last month when reitterating that the 2009 trade with the New England Patriots which landed Seymour in Oaktown was "a great trade." The Pats will cash in on that trade chip this season with the 17th pick in the draft.

No Franchise Tag for the big boy this season. He's willingly returning to anchor the Raiders defensive line. Here's what SF Chronicle writer Vittorio Tafur reported just one week ago, when he and the rest of the league thought Seymour would wear the franchise tag another year:

As for Seymour, he is happy in Oakland.

He moved from end to tackle last season, and the defensive line was one of the driving forces behind an 8-8 season - a three-game improvement from 2009. He took on a leadership role with the younger players, and late in the season he said, "I see myself retiring as a Raider."

It seems that Al Davis is still working his magic on the set of the Oakland Raiders organization. Just don't put him on a national stage in front of reporters with cameras and a projector after he's fired someone.

Basketball Phenom Ryan Boatright

This Was 3 Years Ago. Youtube or Google him to checkout his current high school basketball skillz, like scoring 55 points in a game in November 2010. Ryan Boatright could be the next Jordan.

Point guard
Aurora, Illinois
Aurora East
AAU: D-Rose All Stars
View Map
Ht:5'10"
Wt:150 lbs



Shooting:Good
Rebounding:Good
Handle:Good
Passing:Outstanding
Strength:Developing
Class:2011 (High School)

Oakland Raiders Highlight Vault - 2002

I remember watching this game on a Sunday Night at the old San Francisco Boathouse restaurant. I was amongst a host of hater Niner Fans and a sprinkling of respectable Pittsburgh Steerler fans. It was me, my girl and one crazed Janis Joplin looking woman all proudly sporting silver & black gear, cheering like Big Brother and Holding Company were in the house. But it was the Raiders who played the house like a psychedelic rock band.

I spent the night oowing and aahing as Quarterback Rich Gannon zipped passes for 403 total yards, Receiver Jerry Rice catching everything zipped his way, Raiders defense snatching 5 turnovers, Runningback Charlie Garner spinning and speeding away from would be tacklers all night with the prettiest of moves and Terry Kirby answering one Steelers score by taking the ensuing kickoff back to the house.

It was a memorable night that I'll always cherish as a proud Oakland Raiders fan moment. The evening would end in a glorious 30-17 Raiders Victory. One fan recently commented that Steelers are still trying to tackle #25 Charlie Garner!

Defense Wins Championships

Green Bay Packers linebacker #52 Clay Matthews III

The Green Bay Packers were labeled with the weaker defense in this year's Super Bowl match-up. At least that's what the so-called football experts had guessed. And who could argue this when the Blitzburgh Steelers defense is home to the likes of safety Troy Polamalu and linebackers Harrison, Timmons and Farrior, all defensive bullies.

Oh well, so much for expert predictions and intimidating names. Turns out that winning Super Bowl XLV was determined by defense all right, but it was the so-called weaker defense of the Green Bay Packers that struck the deciding blows in this up and down championship game.

The Packers defense forced three turnovers by the Steelers offense, two of those being interceptions of Ben Rothlisberger passes. On both interceptions Big Ben was being pressured by the "weaker" Green Bay defense. The other turnover was caused by Packers linebacker Clay Matthews, who accomplished winning an NFL title for three generations of Matthews that played professional football but never brought home a championship.

Mendenhall Fumble

Clay's fumble-causing hit on Steeler RB Rashard Mendenhall at the Packers 35-yard-line was crucial in that it took the second half momentum away from the resurging Steelers who were down by only 4pts and marching toward a possible go ahead score.

Sure, Super Bowl MVP QB Aaron Rogers played with precision passing in hitting starting receiver Greg Jennings for two touchdowns while backup receiver Jordy Nelson had a career day hauling in nine passes for 140 yards and a touchdown. But it was this "weaker" Packers defense, missing star cornerback Charles Woodson and a slew of other parts, who get my vote for MVP.

The fact that the Mendenhall fumble came just as I was collecting $$$$'s for my third quarter football pool numbers (GB 1 Pitt 7) may have influenced my opinion of the importance of that play. Either way, the proof of Defense Winning Championships is definitely in the pudding, and the Green Bay Packers looked like kids who'd had their fill of chocolate pudding as they hoisted the Vince Lombardi trophy this night in Dallas.

Congratulations Green Bay Packers, NFL Super Bowl XLV Champions!

Final Score: Packers 31 Steelers 25

Why CALIFORNIA?

Today's National Weather Advisory for the midwest and northeast is brutal. Grandpa Winter is packing a punch as he skirts blisteringly across these regions causing havoc on people, property and travel. Its weather not fit for a dog to go visit his favorite hydrant in.

In Ohio more than 200,000 homes and businesses are without power. In the Chicago area, where many Jay Cutler haters are still fuming, 123,000 without power. Roofs are collapsing, roads are dangerous and night temperatures can be deadly in places like Kansas City where windchill factor makes it 5 to 15 below zero. Or Chicago where they're expecting 20 to 30 below.

Meanwhile, the current temperature in my California city-by-the-bay is a comfortable 60 degrees.........above zero. Many of the regions being blasted by this latest winter storm are going into Superbowl weekend without the most important party mix; Electricity & Cable. My prayers are with you all.

My California superbowl party host just called yesterday asking if I'd prefer mesquite or hickory wood chips in the barbecue grill this Sunday. That's what I like most about California and its winters; Choices. Sure I could go up north to a wintry wonderland if I choose, but why when I can stay home and wear my Raiders Jersey without a coat on Sunday? Choices man, everyone should have at least two.

For what its worth, here's a how-to for those poor souls who may find themselves without power this Superbowl Sunday. I give you this from the bottom of my heart, instructions for fireplace cooking from The Firepit and Grilling Guru. But be careful and follow safety precautions, wouldn't want your two choices of living accomodations narrowed down to simply one, a freezing garage.

C.A.L.I.F.O.R.N.I.A. LOVE

Sports Live Streaming WebSite Seized!

Its a sad day in sports when one of the few free Live Video Streaming sites is permanently shutdown. I suspected that they were operating without permission and/or license to do business legally, but never thought that Homeland Security would be in on the bust.

In a visit to their site today to view super bowl media week highlights, I was met with the above official looking document. Could just be a homeade notification but why? Did the big major network guys finally send their goons out to pay a visit to the streaming site administrators with an offer they couldn't refuse? Sure will ruin someone's Super Bowl Party.
The question I'm left with is how much of a threat to our nation's homefront was this site of live streaming sports and television broadcasts? I suppose with the phasing out of Homeland Security's color-coded terror threat Advisory System due April 27, 2011 , the national security advisors have begun targeting the lesser evils of mankind.

What will they target next, Hooters?

Come'On Man!

World Series Champion Fanfest 2011

World Seris MVP Edgar Renteria's "shot heard around the world II"

Damn, I still can't believe that my San Francisco Giants ARE World Series Champions. The man who clinched the final world series game with a 3-run homer may have left the building, but memories of his mvp worthy gargantuan feat still gives Giants fans plenty to celebrate about.

This weekend will mark the 18th annual Giants fanfest day and I can't remember ever attending one with such pride and exhilaration. A Championship truly is the gift that keeps on giving.

This fan appreciation day will bring out more Giants fans than ever before. I don't mind the bandwagon fans who came aboard during the championship run. I actually welcome the green-gilled twenty-somethings clad in orange. The beauty of Giants fandom is that it crosses all ages, cultures and genders (san francisco has more than 2.)

So the invite is open to all fans who went wild cheering the SF Giants toward that ultimate moment of triumph on November 1, 2010. That autumn day is one that will live forever in the hearts and souls of so many orange & black wearing baseball fans.

Party At AT&T Park
February 5, 2011
11:00am-3:00pm

Its Good To Be The Champ!