It's a new season and the Oakland Raiders will be driving a restored classic cadillac off the lot come Monday Nite. The Silver & Black are rolling to greatness once again with new leadership mingled with an old playing philosophy; Just Win Baby!
I can't wait to see what GM Reggie McKenzie, Head Coach Dennis Allen and the rest of the revamped Raiders coaching staff have reanimated. The cadillac ownership has passed down from late great leader Al Davis to modern generation Mark Davis. The young Mr. Davis has fine-tuned, polished and put in place new drivers to steer the modernized team out of mediocrity and back to being an elite deluxe model. Raiders 2.0 Unveiled!
Monday, August 13th, we get to see that shiny refurbished silver and black classic come out of the gate and purr like a pretty haired panther before taking the field to battle the Dallas Cowboys in their first exhibition game.
It's August 2012, the A's and Giants are in playoff races, the summer olympics are about over and done, and Summer Music Festival with Maze, Frankie Beverly, Pattie Labelle, The OJays, Babyface and more are lighting up the bay area this weekend. What better way to bring in the football season than a Monday Night unveiling of the "New" Oakland Raiders at O.co? (Oaktown Coliseum)
Oaktown's Own Lucy Pearl
note: Niners will host the Minnesota Vikings tonight. Go Vikes! just kidding.
R A I D E R L E G E N D
Friday, August 10, 2012
Wednesday, August 08, 2012
Giants Blast Cardinals In St. Louis
What can you say about the San Francisco Giants? Their leading a division that was just about promised to the L.A. Dodgers. They stick with a closer who really is not a closer and it shows. Their Big Bat has been out with a hamstring injury. They acquire some good, not great, players who've been adjusting to their new team.
All that said and the bottom line is they are winning games. Tonight was new Giant Marco Scutaro's game to come alive and show his stuff. Scutaro had a two run double, an RBI single and a grand slam home run for a total of seven runs batted in. The boys are starting to show that playoff run fever.
Ryan Voglesong pitched seven strong innings with Kontos and Jo Mijares closing out an inning each to preserve the shutout. The game was nationally televised!
Final Score
Giants 15
Cardinals 0
Final Score
A's 9
Angels 8
All that said and the bottom line is they are winning games. Tonight was new Giant Marco Scutaro's game to come alive and show his stuff. Scutaro had a two run double, an RBI single and a grand slam home run for a total of seven runs batted in. The boys are starting to show that playoff run fever.
Ryan Voglesong pitched seven strong innings with Kontos and Jo Mijares closing out an inning each to preserve the shutout. The game was nationally televised!
Final Score
Giants 15
Cardinals 0
Final Score
A's 9
Angels 8
GIANTS & ELEPHANTS
Tuesday, August 07, 2012
Striking Gold - Usain Bolt
Jamaican Sprinter USAIN BOLT struck a pose as he won the 100 meter dash in 9.63 seconds, setting an olympic record. He is simply the fastest running human. I've said it before and I'll say it again, sign that man to a Raiders football contract and get him on the field.
Congratulations Usain, you freaking animal!
1.Cheetah
In 2009, the Cincinnati Zoo's 8 year-old female cheetah became the world's fastest of all land mammals. Sarah covered 100 meters in a time of 6.13 seconds, breaking the previous mark of 6.19 seconds set by a male South African cheetah named Nyana in 2001. See video
2.Pronghorn antelope 61mph
3.Lion 50 mph
4.Thomson's gazelle50 mph
5.Wildebeest 50 mph
6. Springbok50 mph
7.Quarter horse 47.5 mph
8.Cape hunting dog45 mph
9.Elk 4572 10.Coyote 43 mph
Friday, August 03, 2012
Real Estate Ponzi Scheme
Amazing that investors are so trusting of real estate agents after all the housing market has been through. Not all agents are crooked and deceitful, but it only takes one to make the whole basket smell rotten. lately, it seems many in the basket are being infected.
Real Estate Ponzi Schemes are popping up all over the country. Beware!
Jill Silvey, a professional looking 50 year old Santa Clara County real estate agent, just might be that one smelling up the basket here in the bay area. Jill is in custody on $3 million dollars bail after trusting investors discovered she'd lied to and cheated them out of money.
Albuquerque - Doug Vaughn
New Jersey - Solomon Dwek & the Rabbi
Peteluma, Ca. - Joseph Baccala
St. Louis - Lawyer & Religious Leader
Ponzie Schemes run by Con Artists are alive and well and making a few wealthy and many less than wealthy. Fortunately for the middle-class working stiff, the Schemers usually target wealthier fish.
With the exposure of Bernie Madoff, Wizard of Lies, white-collar crime as they call it, is being looked at more seriously and prosecuted to the fullest. Unfortunately for the victims, most if not all of the money they handed over to the Schemers is unrecoverable.
Sentences for White-Collar Criminals: Too Harsh or Too Lenient?
Real Estate Ponzi Schemes are popping up all over the country. Beware!
Jill Silvey, a professional looking 50 year old Santa Clara County real estate agent, just might be that one smelling up the basket here in the bay area. Jill is in custody on $3 million dollars bail after trusting investors discovered she'd lied to and cheated them out of money.
View more videos at: http://nbcbayarea.com.
Albuquerque - Doug Vaughn
New Jersey - Solomon Dwek & the Rabbi
Peteluma, Ca. - Joseph Baccala
St. Louis - Lawyer & Religious Leader
Ponzie Schemes run by Con Artists are alive and well and making a few wealthy and many less than wealthy. Fortunately for the middle-class working stiff, the Schemers usually target wealthier fish.
With the exposure of Bernie Madoff, Wizard of Lies, white-collar crime as they call it, is being looked at more seriously and prosecuted to the fullest. Unfortunately for the victims, most if not all of the money they handed over to the Schemers is unrecoverable. Sentences for White-Collar Criminals: Too Harsh or Too Lenient?
Thursday, August 02, 2012
Gabby Is GOLDEN!
USA Olympic gymnast Gabrielle 'Gabby' Douglas won the women's all-around gymnastics title with an electric floor routine that "rocked" the arena. It's her second gold medal. You Go Gabby!
LONDON -- Might be time to get Gabby Douglas a new nickname.
Olympic champ works.
Known as "The Flying Squirrel," Douglas won the women's all-around title Thursday night, becoming the third straight American to win gymnastics' biggest prize and the first African-American. It's her second gold medal of the London Games, coming two nights after she and her "Fierce Five" teammates gave the United States its first Olympic title since 1996. The Associated Press
"I wanted to seize the moment," Douglas said.
Gabby, you've siezed the day!
The Eddie McGee Stories
Something about a player named McGee gives me instant gratification. Don't know why, maybe a hometown sports hero with the name plays a part in my unusual interest.
With the Raiders giving rookie receiver Eddie McGee from Illinois a look-see, I'm excited. Looks as if the young man's impressing the coaches already, making the memory of former WR Louis Murphy a mirage.
I know next to nothing about the 24 year old, but finding a few articles on him satisfies my hometown McGee theory. McGee played quarterback before switching over to wide receiver, but you don't need to hear it from me, here's the story:
With the Raiders giving rookie receiver Eddie McGee from Illinois a look-see, I'm excited. Looks as if the young man's impressing the coaches already, making the memory of former WR Louis Murphy a mirage.
I know next to nothing about the 24 year old, but finding a few articles on him satisfies my hometown McGee theory. McGee played quarterback before switching over to wide receiver, but you don't need to hear it from me, here's the story:
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Linebacker Chad "Go Kill" Kilgore is A Raider
On the day before their first training camp begins the Oakland Raiders signed 5th Rd draft pick, WR Juron Criner. It was expected that the talented young man would be signed before training camp. What wasn't expected are the two undrafted free agents, linebacker Chad Kilgore out of Northwest Missouri State and receiver DeAundre Muhammad out of Indiana, being added to the Raiders roster.
Receivers are a dime a dozen, but finding a good linebacker who can become a game changer is a rarity. Raider Nation..... I give you Chad Kilgore, or "Go Kill."
The way I see it, this young prospect has the on-field smarts and speed to make a difference on defense. Based on the following footage, "Go Kill" can fight off blocks, shoot gaps, run down running backs, cover tight ends, hit and wrap up on tackles and basically make an offense alter their game plan. Sure he might not have seen the upper echelon of college competition, but his instincts seem solid and it appears he loves the game of nasty football.
The new version of Oakland Raiders, based on new GM Reggie McKenzie's vision, is going to be built with men who are football smart, athletic and willing to work hard as a team to win. "Go Kill" definitely seems to fit that bill. I'm picking this kid as one of the many surprise acquisitions for the Raiders. You never know what rookie is going to step out of obscurity and have the league and fans comparing him to one of the greats. Chad Kilgore could be that rookie. Just "Go Kill" Chad, Just Go Kill!
Saturday, July 28, 2012
2012 Olympics Inspiration
I hadn't planned on watching the 2012 Summer Olympics, but thoughts of my acrobatic, ballet loving granddaughter, Amirah Deara, has me looking for the televised gymnastics schedule.
Today was meant to think of my Amirah Deara and remind her of just how much I love her. Daughters and Granddaughters are like butterflies, beautiful and transforming. Both can bring out the humbleness of the coldest of men.
Big Hugs Amirah Deara
Your Yah Yah!
Coming across an old used book titled "The French Doll" led me to this beautiful lullaby that sounds and smells just like my Amirah. Nite, nite!
French Doll (composed by William Gillock)
Today was meant to think of my Amirah Deara and remind her of just how much I love her. Daughters and Granddaughters are like butterflies, beautiful and transforming. Both can bring out the humbleness of the coldest of men.
Big Hugs Amirah Deara
Your Yah Yah!
Coming across an old used book titled "The French Doll" led me to this beautiful lullaby that sounds and smells just like my Amirah. Nite, nite!
French Doll (composed by William Gillock)
Friday, July 27, 2012
2012 Raiders Compare Well To 2002 AFC Champions
A license to dream, that's what I call training camp and preseason football. Or call it caviar wishes and champagne dreams, because when it comes to preseason analysis of your football teams' chances to go to the Super Bowl, a fantasy recipe for success is the only way to define your promising outlook. Last season's pork & beans finish is a distant memory as this season shows nothing but rich rewards.
And just how tasty is the fantasy of envisioning your team making it to the big show and winning it all? I'll tell you. It's tasty enough to believe the recipe that makes up the new team will produce the best meal you've ever sank your teeth into.
After reading an article by Elias Trejo of the Raider Nation TImes, which compares the 2002 Raiders roster with the current one, I'm drooling from the mouth anticipating the Oakland Raiders 2012 season. Its never too early to entertain a dream; that's how dreams become realities.
And just how tasty is the fantasy of envisioning your team making it to the big show and winning it all? I'll tell you. It's tasty enough to believe the recipe that makes up the new team will produce the best meal you've ever sank your teeth into.
After reading an article by Elias Trejo of the Raider Nation TImes, which compares the 2002 Raiders roster with the current one, I'm drooling from the mouth anticipating the Oakland Raiders 2012 season. Its never too early to entertain a dream; that's how dreams become realities.
Are You Ready For Some Football?
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Giants Showcase A Defense of Champions
Crawford in Action (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
Another Angel Pagan diving catch and follow-up throw that should be replaying on ESPN at this minute; Pablo Sandoval at first base making an acrobatic, olympian double-play catch of a Brandon Crawford throw, and of course the Brandon Crawford walk-off game winning single.
Yes, the San Francisco Giants are adding up to the sum of all it's parts. There are all-stars on the team, but every game seems to bring out the regular joe's pushing their game up a notch for a chance to go to the playoffs. Last night Angel Pagan showed he deserves gold glove status and Brandon Crawford made a strong case for being more than just a regular Joe!
Final Score
Padres 2
Giants 3
note:
- Oakland A's won their sixth straight game last night in Toronto, 7-2.
- And just who the heck is Edinson Volquez? Padres pitcher battled Madison Bumgarner to a 2-2 stalemate.
Monday, July 23, 2012
NFL Football - Down With The Sickness
Tis the season to be jolly. Just like the days leading up to Christmas for a kid, the days leading up to NFL training camp is full of excitement and anticipation for any football fan.
My Raiders will host the Dallas Cowboys on Aug. 13th in Oakland for their first exhibition game. Wow, silver and black football action less than three weeks away. I'm getting sick just wanting to wish it here tomorrow. Just like kids and christmas I tell you.
If you're not down with the sickness of NFL Football, then you're just not down!
My Raiders will host the Dallas Cowboys on Aug. 13th in Oakland for their first exhibition game. Wow, silver and black football action less than three weeks away. I'm getting sick just wanting to wish it here tomorrow. Just like kids and christmas I tell you.
If you're not down with the sickness of NFL Football, then you're just not down!
Penn State Penalty Phase
The statue of Joe Paterno was removed this weekend as the Penn State football program was heavily penalized for the child abuse cover-up scandal. While many are discussing whether the penalty fit the crime, I'd like to keep the focus on the victimization of children.
There simply is no penalty big enough to fit "This" crime. Penn State as an academic institution shares the blame with convicted pedophile Jerry Sandusky. They did it for the money, plain and simple. When those in charge of making decisions at large organizations choose to ignore and cover-up crimes against children, they deserve every punishment and criticism our society can legally heap on them when caught.
For all the ugly and tasteless criticisms and images being shared on the internet about Penn State, not one is as ugly and damaging as the crimes committed against the victims of Penn State.
To the many victims of Jerry Sandusky & Penn State, both known and unknown, I apologize for being a part of a society that puts money ahead of ethics. For those heroic victims who came forward and told their stories, sharing their pain, I thank you. You have unveiled an evil that our society must better protect against.
Hopefully we've learned a very valuable lesson about ourselves and the value of our children. Children are priceless, and any individual or institution that jeopardizes their safety should be exposed and made accountable for their actions. We may not be able to prevent every crime, but it is in our power to bring to justice the criminal(s) responsible.
Never turn a blind eye to abuse of any kind. Ever!
There simply is no penalty big enough to fit "This" crime. Penn State as an academic institution shares the blame with convicted pedophile Jerry Sandusky. They did it for the money, plain and simple. When those in charge of making decisions at large organizations choose to ignore and cover-up crimes against children, they deserve every punishment and criticism our society can legally heap on them when caught.
To the many victims of Jerry Sandusky & Penn State, both known and unknown, I apologize for being a part of a society that puts money ahead of ethics. For those heroic victims who came forward and told their stories, sharing their pain, I thank you. You have unveiled an evil that our society must better protect against.
Hopefully we've learned a very valuable lesson about ourselves and the value of our children. Children are priceless, and any individual or institution that jeopardizes their safety should be exposed and made accountable for their actions. We may not be able to prevent every crime, but it is in our power to bring to justice the criminal(s) responsible.
Never turn a blind eye to abuse of any kind. Ever!
Bay Area Baseball Teams
Our Bay Area baseball teams are showing us and the league that America's past-time has not passed us by in 2012. Since the All-Star break the San Francisco Giants are 7-2 while the Oakland A's, after sweeping the NY Yankees four games in Oaktown, are 8-1.
It's summer baseball in the bay at its best. The A's have to be the hottest team in the majors right now. When you sweep a team that money and media are draped over like a cheap suit, it gets folks to talking. Hopefully the talk will continue to focus on the A's extraordinary play on the field and not on the empty seats at the coliseum.
As for the Giants, pitching has kicked in and is carrying them in close games, but they'll definitely need to address hitting with men on base. This morning, after a twelve-inning loss to the Phillies, the talk is about slumping first baseman Brandon Belt. Numbers don't lie, and Belt knows he's in a slump and wants to work through out. The team, holding to a mere 1.5 division lead, might not have the luxury of waiting for him to break through. Time and pressure, time and pressure!
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Sparkle 2012 Coming in August
Don't know about you, but I was just hitting my teenage years in 1976 when the hit movie Sparkle glittered across the theatre screens. Actors Irene Cara, Philip Michael-Thomas, Lonette McKee and Mary Alice gave us the Supremes-like story of three R&B singing sisters and their young music agent. Sparkle would become a cult-classic among african-american audiences.
The Vinyl LP soundtrack album, sung by Aretha Franklin, would hit #1 on the top R&B Albums list. The song "Something He Can Feel" hit #1 on the Hot Soul Singles list. The sounds made that American Bicentennial summer something to rejoice and truly celebrate. Of course the album was produced by a musician I consider a genius, the late Curtis Mayfield.
On August 17, 2012, Sparkle, the remake, will be released in theaters throughout the United States. For many of us, it will be more than just another movie; it will be like going home for a nice little summer vacation.
The Vinyl LP soundtrack album, sung by Aretha Franklin, would hit #1 on the top R&B Albums list. The song "Something He Can Feel" hit #1 on the Hot Soul Singles list. The sounds made that American Bicentennial summer something to rejoice and truly celebrate. Of course the album was produced by a musician I consider a genius, the late Curtis Mayfield.
On August 17, 2012, Sparkle, the remake, will be released in theaters throughout the United States. For many of us, it will be more than just another movie; it will be like going home for a nice little summer vacation.
Dedicated to Songstress and Actor Whitney Houston
Monday, July 16, 2012
Remembering Myspace Raiders Style
I remember joining the social network Myspace in 2005, a few years after it had been launched. I joined for two reasons, to meet other Raiders and possibly hookup with a hot babe. Well, I ended up getting both and my adventure into the social web community took off, meeting new friends, sharing information and creating a page that showed loyalty to my Silver and Black Raiders.
Here it is years later and though Myspace is still alive and well, Facebook is now the big daddy of social networking. I was all ready to jump in and use my experience from Myspace to meet, mingle and create on facebook when I first joined, but after a while I became suspicious of the site. When news reports of personal information gathering and other behind the scenes Facebook activities confirmed my fears, I shut it down and revisited Myspace for the heck of it.
Most if not all of those I knew on Myspace are now on Facebook. But there are a few, probably the ones as protective of their personal information as I am, who are still using the old pioneer of social networking. One is an old friend Jennifer, nicknamed Raidergurl.
Jennifer bleeds silver & black as much as any Raiders fan and she's continued to represent the Raiders wherever she finds herself on the web. When I first friended Jennifer she was sportin' a tight little outfight that seemed to be shrinkin' by the minute. I commented on the shrinkage being from a tear-soaked outfit while watching our Raiders stumble through another losing season.
That's right, Jennifer is one of the many Raidergurls found out their on the web who add beauty to our brutal style of football. She's a genuine second generation Raiders fan and I'm glad to see she's still representin' on Myspace with pride, poise and passion.
Here it is years later and though Myspace is still alive and well, Facebook is now the big daddy of social networking. I was all ready to jump in and use my experience from Myspace to meet, mingle and create on facebook when I first joined, but after a while I became suspicious of the site. When news reports of personal information gathering and other behind the scenes Facebook activities confirmed my fears, I shut it down and revisited Myspace for the heck of it.
Most if not all of those I knew on Myspace are now on Facebook. But there are a few, probably the ones as protective of their personal information as I am, who are still using the old pioneer of social networking. One is an old friend Jennifer, nicknamed Raidergurl.
Jennifer bleeds silver & black as much as any Raiders fan and she's continued to represent the Raiders wherever she finds herself on the web. When I first friended Jennifer she was sportin' a tight little outfight that seemed to be shrinkin' by the minute. I commented on the shrinkage being from a tear-soaked outfit while watching our Raiders stumble through another losing season.
That's right, Jennifer is one of the many Raidergurls found out their on the web who add beauty to our brutal style of football. She's a genuine second generation Raiders fan and I'm glad to see she's still representin' on Myspace with pride, poise and passion.
Good Lookin at you RaiderGurl
Sunday, July 15, 2012
SF Giants Back On Top in NL West
On a night when the L.A. Dodgers blew a game leaving the door open for the Giants to take over the division lead, rookie Giants catcher Hector Sanchez would make that door seem one in a dream, so close yet so far away.
Well, the dream ended in a fantasy finish instead of a nightmare as Sanchez, who was blamed for an error that allowed a score to run to tie the game, came up with the walk off RBI in the 12th inning. You could argue that the error should not have been charged to Sanchez on the throw. A ball in the dirt bounced away from him and , and, and, well, let's just say it was a keystone cops type play, ugly.
The Giants are now atop the NL West by a half game. The celebration that Sanchez's RBI triggered last night expressed not only the teams' giddy emotions from a roller coaster ride game, but also the fans. The Giants are torturing us again folks!
Final Score (12)
Astros 2
Giants 3
Well, the dream ended in a fantasy finish instead of a nightmare as Sanchez, who was blamed for an error that allowed a score to run to tie the game, came up with the walk off RBI in the 12th inning. You could argue that the error should not have been charged to Sanchez on the throw. A ball in the dirt bounced away from him and , and, and, well, let's just say it was a keystone cops type play, ugly.
The Giants are now atop the NL West by a half game. The celebration that Sanchez's RBI triggered last night expressed not only the teams' giddy emotions from a roller coaster ride game, but also the fans. The Giants are torturing us again folks!
Final Score (12)
Astros 2
Giants 3
Branch Is Back!
The Oakland Raiders have signed franchise tagged player Tyvon Branch to a four year deal. Branch has been a durable part of the Raiders secondary since coming in to the league in 2008. Right-on Raiders for getting the deal done.
Branch, a fourth-round pick in 2008, has started every game the past three seasons and led the Raiders in tackles the past two years. He had 78 solo tackles, one sack, one interception, four passes defensed and one fumble recovery last season.
Branch's 327 total tackles over the past three seasons are the second most of any NFL defensive back, trailing only Indianapolis' Antoine Bethea, who has 340.
Branch, a fourth-round pick in 2008, has started every game the past three seasons and led the Raiders in tackles the past two years. He had 78 solo tackles, one sack, one interception, four passes defensed and one fumble recovery last season.
Branch's 327 total tackles over the past three seasons are the second most of any NFL defensive back, trailing only Indianapolis' Antoine Bethea, who has 340.
espn new blog Bill Williamson
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Raider Nation Celebration
The Oakland Raiders will celebrate the start of football this year with the Raider Nation Celebration on Sunday, August 12 from 1 – 4 p.m. at O.co Coliseum, in parking lot “B,” which is located on the south side of the Coliseum Complex.
It's the "Parking Lot B" part that makes me wonder what's the deal. Is there some surprise in store where the Raiders will open the Coliseum gates and march us fans straight onto the field to the rallying battle cry of "The Autumn Wind?" What gives?
I've been attending Raider Nation Celebration for years and I don't ever remember it being held in the Coliseum parking lot. I'm sure there's a good reason for it, $$$$, but it don't matter, I'd go if it were held in a broke-down bowling alley in Bakersfield. Well, then again, let's just be thankful for the damn parking lot!
It's the "Parking Lot B" part that makes me wonder what's the deal. Is there some surprise in store where the Raiders will open the Coliseum gates and march us fans straight onto the field to the rallying battle cry of "The Autumn Wind?" What gives?
I've been attending Raider Nation Celebration for years and I don't ever remember it being held in the Coliseum parking lot. I'm sure there's a good reason for it, $$$$, but it don't matter, I'd go if it were held in a broke-down bowling alley in Bakersfield. Well, then again, let's just be thankful for the damn parking lot!
Win Lose or Tie
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Melkman Earns All-Star MVP
SF Giants outfielder and fan favorite Melky Cabrera won the All-Star Game MVP as he and other Giants starters led the National League to an 8-0 laugher over the American league in Kansas City.
The Giants are a half game back of NL West division lead and will need to continue their all-star style of play for them to make it into the playoffs. They can do it, they've Got Melk!
Final Score
National League 8
American League 0
Mekly in orange spikes. Go Giants!
Melky, returning to the baseball stadium he played in last season, went 2-for-3 with 2 RBIs and scoring two runs. The other San Francisco Giants (Matt Cain, Pablo Sandoval, Buster Posey) were all factors in helping the National League win their third straight All-Star game and giving the NL home field advantage in the World Series.The Giants are a half game back of NL West division lead and will need to continue their all-star style of play for them to make it into the playoffs. They can do it, they've Got Melk!
Final Score
National League 8
American League 0
Friday, July 06, 2012
Serena Silences Howling Azarenka
The Beauty of Sports
I just love this jubilant picture of Serena WIlliams after her win over Victoria Azarenka in the Wimbledon semifinals yesterday. Azarenka is known for her distinctive howling grunt when whacking the tennis ball. Serena on the other hand is known for her rocket serve that simply disarms opponents, rendering them non-threatening.
The athleticism of Serena Williams is unmistakably the result of hard work and dedication. This picture has captured it all and embodies the the essence of athletic achievement.
This weekend Serena will team with sister Venus in the Doubles Finals. That's one big Howl for Serena folks!
Thursday, July 05, 2012
Bliss 2007
Plot
Meryem (Özgü Namal), a young woman of about 17 years old, is believed to have been violated, and her village's customs call for her to be killed to restore honor and dignity to her family and village. A young, newly returned war veteran and son of the village leader, Cemal (Murat Han), is ordered to take Meryem to Istanbul and kill her, but at the last minute he doesn't allow himself to complete the task and the two, now unable to ever return to their village, run away together. Eventually, they meet up with ex-Professor Irfan, a man who has decided to live on a boat away from his wife and limited life.This movie is adapted from the international best selling novel by Zülfü Livaneli.[3]
SF Weekly
SF Weekly, the free alternative weekly newspaper in San Francisco, California, carries an article in this week's edition that begs to be read. It's a breakdown of the U.S. economy, where we've been, where we are and where we're most likely heading if Wall Street and Washington continue doing business as usual.
No wonder I chose a sports blog over political and/or social opinion; the reality of economic and political conditions in the United States today are horrific. You wanna see something really scary? Step away from the fake reality television shows that divert you from learning what's really happening in today's world.
The SF Weekly article, America's Petro-Terrorists by Pete Kotz, is a lesson in Conspiracy Tactics. Not conspiracy theories, but tactics; how it was planned, put into action and continues to perform. Yes, it's a scary article to read, but one that every American wondering what the heck is going on in this country must check out. After reading this article you'll either feel like the 1% quoting Afred E. Newman - "What Me Worry?", or more like the 99% quoting a busted lipped boxer saying - "I Wuz Robbed!"
And just when I began reading about Offshore Investments and the Underground Economy. Timing is everything I tell you!
Largest black markets
Estimated annual market value
(Billion USD)
Total 796[12]
Marijuana 142[12]
Prostitution 108[12]
Counterfeit technology products 100[12]
Counterfeit pharmaceutical drugs 75[12]
Prescription drugs 73[12]
Cocaine 70[12]
Opium and heroin 65[12]
Web Video piracy 60[12]
Software piracy 53[12]
Cigarette smuggling 50[12
No wonder I chose a sports blog over political and/or social opinion; the reality of economic and political conditions in the United States today are horrific. You wanna see something really scary? Step away from the fake reality television shows that divert you from learning what's really happening in today's world.
The SF Weekly article, America's Petro-Terrorists by Pete Kotz, is a lesson in Conspiracy Tactics. Not conspiracy theories, but tactics; how it was planned, put into action and continues to perform. Yes, it's a scary article to read, but one that every American wondering what the heck is going on in this country must check out. After reading this article you'll either feel like the 1% quoting Afred E. Newman - "What Me Worry?", or more like the 99% quoting a busted lipped boxer saying - "I Wuz Robbed!"
WALL STREET AND WASHINGTON CONSPIRE TO DESTABILIZE THE U.S. ECONOMY ONE BARREL OF OIL AT A TIME.
And just when I began reading about Offshore Investments and the Underground Economy. Timing is everything I tell you!
Largest black markets
Estimated annual market value
(Billion USD)
Total 796[12]
Marijuana 142[12]
Prostitution 108[12]
Counterfeit technology products 100[12]
Counterfeit pharmaceutical drugs 75[12]
Prescription drugs 73[12]
Cocaine 70[12]
Opium and heroin 65[12]
Web Video piracy 60[12]
Software piracy 53[12]
Cigarette smuggling 50[12
Too Much Magic by Jason Benlevi
Here's a book that's on my reading list. It seems society is overloaded by technological gadgets these days, so much so, that many users are dependent on it to a fault. We see a young generation who are super savvy with electronic devices but definitely lacking in basic communication skills. And if that's not a shame, the morals and values of our society are disintegrating at a rapid rate. Of course none of this is all Technology's fault, but the emphasis on plugging in and tuning out has definitely come to fruition.
This book goes behind the scenes of the magical technology curtain and gives us an inside view of what's driving it all and where we can end up if we're not careful. Remember old sayings like "Too good to be true, "loose lips sink ships" and "Nothing is for free"? Well it seems those lessons were pushed to the back burner when it comes to new technology use. "Too Much Magic" shows the price we pay in privacy, child-rearing, relationships, education and other social values we once held to a higher standard.
Publisher's Description Summary:
"What have you gotten yourself into? Your kids have never known life without a computer. They expect to be entertained everywhere, all the time. Your phone does things you still can't figure out. Everyone is tracking what you buy. People line up to get the newest gadget, yet every movie about the future portrays a tech world-gone-wrong. Yes -- something is wrong with this picture. The problem is not technology itself, but rather those who decide its course.
Too Much Magic is the story of high-rolling venture capitalists, media moguls and marketeers using digital magic to distract us, invade our privacy, corrupt democracy, distort our human values, and sell us things we don't need. What does it cost us personally? While one generation harbors anxiety about technology, the next generation is incapable of doing anything without it, tethered to its wireless and social networks -- rendered clueless at performing simple tasks, like dating, without going online. Authored by Silicon Valley marketing-communications guru Jason Benlevi, Too Much Magic slices through all aspects of our accelerating digital lifestyle -- explaining how it is changing us, and who really benefits. Here's a clue -- without knowing the tricks, it probably won't be you" -- Publisher's description, p. [4] of cover.
Author Jason Benlevi:
Let me be clear, I am a long-time lover of technology, I'm just not thrilled with the models that are evolving that are more focused on monetization for what are actually trivial applications of tech...or turning everything we do into just one more way to target people with advertising. We can do better.
Jason Benlevi Interview
Computer Glitch Blamed In San Diego Fireworks Malfunction
This book goes behind the scenes of the magical technology curtain and gives us an inside view of what's driving it all and where we can end up if we're not careful. Remember old sayings like "Too good to be true, "loose lips sink ships" and "Nothing is for free"? Well it seems those lessons were pushed to the back burner when it comes to new technology use. "Too Much Magic" shows the price we pay in privacy, child-rearing, relationships, education and other social values we once held to a higher standard.
Publisher's Description Summary:
"What have you gotten yourself into? Your kids have never known life without a computer. They expect to be entertained everywhere, all the time. Your phone does things you still can't figure out. Everyone is tracking what you buy. People line up to get the newest gadget, yet every movie about the future portrays a tech world-gone-wrong. Yes -- something is wrong with this picture. The problem is not technology itself, but rather those who decide its course.
Too Much Magic is the story of high-rolling venture capitalists, media moguls and marketeers using digital magic to distract us, invade our privacy, corrupt democracy, distort our human values, and sell us things we don't need. What does it cost us personally? While one generation harbors anxiety about technology, the next generation is incapable of doing anything without it, tethered to its wireless and social networks -- rendered clueless at performing simple tasks, like dating, without going online. Authored by Silicon Valley marketing-communications guru Jason Benlevi, Too Much Magic slices through all aspects of our accelerating digital lifestyle -- explaining how it is changing us, and who really benefits. Here's a clue -- without knowing the tricks, it probably won't be you" -- Publisher's description, p. [4] of cover.
Author Jason Benlevi:
Let me be clear, I am a long-time lover of technology, I'm just not thrilled with the models that are evolving that are more focused on monetization for what are actually trivial applications of tech...or turning everything we do into just one more way to target people with advertising. We can do better.
Jason Benlevi Interview
Computer Glitch Blamed In San Diego Fireworks Malfunction
Wednesday, July 04, 2012
Steve Nash Joins Los Angeles Lakers?
Phoenix Suns star guard Steve Nash has joined Kobe Bryant and the Lakers. I've always thought of Nash as a stand up athlete and top tier basketball player. His joining an enemy camp will sure seem weird for Suns fans.
There will most likely be more player trades and transactions before next season for both teams. For now, the Nash trade is definitely the biggest NBA news since Lebron leaked tears all over the championship trophy. I think this is bigger than Orlando's Dwight Howard pushing to be traded to the New Jersey Nets of Brooklyn. Scratch That!
The Brooklyn Nets are sure encroaching on Oakland Raiders Colors & Logo. Watch-it BK!
There will most likely be more player trades and transactions before next season for both teams. For now, the Nash trade is definitely the biggest NBA news since Lebron leaked tears all over the championship trophy. I think this is bigger than Orlando's Dwight Howard pushing to be traded to the New Jersey Nets of Brooklyn. Scratch That!
The Brooklyn Nets are sure encroaching on Oakland Raiders Colors & Logo. Watch-it BK!
Ol'Skool All-Star Raider Legend Passes
Big Ben Davidson was and always will be a Raider. Though he played for Lombardi's 1961 Champion Packers his rookie season, he'll be most remembered for his 1964-1972 legacy with the Oakland Raiders.
Big, Bold and helping to set the tone that would become the Raiders Mystique. He was a 6 foot 8 defensive lineman who played with a relentless passion. He sported a handlebar mustache probably before A's pitcher Rollie Fingers, and he played Rexor in one of the all-time favorite he-man movies, Conan the Barbarian.
Big Ben, Still A Raider!
Tuesday, July 03, 2012
A's Roll Red Sox With 2 Runs In 9th
The Oakland A's are a grind-it-out, never say die bunch of guys. The boys in yellow made some fantastic defensive plays tonight, including a double play in the ninth off a Boston bunt that popped up and was gloved at grass top level before being thrown to first for the second out.
Trailing 2-1, leaving the bases loaded in the 8th, the A's found a way to escape the top of the ninth without allowing Boston to add to their lead. That set up a dramatic ending that I myself did not expect and could barely watch.
Somehow, someway the A's got the hits and scored the runs as a Coco Crisp sacrifice fly brought home the walk-off run. It almost seemed like the Red Sox just folded under pressure, that pressure being the resilient A's players on the field and their loud-n-proud fans in the stands. By all accounts Boston should've, could've had this game in the bag. Instead, they got bagged and bounced back to their hotel with the taste of blown save swirling around inside their mouth.
Coco Crisp, who also had a first inning two run homer, was the player of the game and received a well-timed, interview stopping pie-in-the-face as a consolation prize. Whoever it was that backpedaled past Crisp as he was proudly beaming into the camera with hands on hips in a trojan man-like stance, that pie pusher deserves a game ball.
What better way for Oaktown to bring in the Fourth of July Fireworks festivities than by lighting up the field with their sparkling play tonight.
The A's are closing in on a .500 record and are playing some damn good team baseball. They're winning series in various ways, a definite indication of a contender.
As for the Boston Red Sox? They'll return to the Oakland Coliseum tomorrow for a third game. Can the Sox avoid getting swept for the Holidays? Goood Luuuuk!
Final Score
Boston 2
Oakland 3
N.Y. Giants #10 Fever
These days, when you're the reigning Super Bowl MVP, you don't go to Disneyland, Desi-land comes to you.
#10 Eli Manning, You Da' Man!
Friday, June 29, 2012
Madison Bumgarner Smokin Hot
San Francisco Giants
The Giants pitching staff lead the league with 10 shutouts this season.
With the way the Giants are pitching these days the rest of the league has been put on notice. The Reds had their ace Johnny Cueto on the mound, but that didn't matter. The Giants hitters made him look pedestrian and it would be Mad Bum who'd be looking the All-Star part. Congratulations Giants!
Final Score
Reds 0
Giants 5
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Cedric Benson Raiders Plea - Immaculate
Morning Cedric, This Is God Calling
You may not find this letter of spiritual advice immaculate, but if
you have faith you’ll understand and receive the blessing. It’s about more than just a football career;
it’s about seeing the gifts of your life unfold in ways you never imagined. I know, I’ve had my eye on you Cedric. You have so much to offer in so many ways,
but like many, there’s been some doubt and many distractions along the
way.
The road of life I made crooked and challenging for reasons only I know. What I’d like you to believe is that every bump, curve and detour placed along your path was put there for your best interest, just as the times your life seemed to be in cruise control, it was I removing some of those worries and burdens. It’s been like that for you since December 28, 1982 and will continue through all your days. For I am always with you.
The road of life I made crooked and challenging for reasons only I know. What I’d like you to believe is that every bump, curve and detour placed along your path was put there for your best interest, just as the times your life seemed to be in cruise control, it was I removing some of those worries and burdens. It’s been like that for you since December 28, 1982 and will continue through all your days. For I am always with you.
As an adult I must remind you of the Free Will you’ve been
blessed with, which allows you to choose what path to take and team to join. Mind you, your choice will not change what I’ve
willed for you, but it will determine the type of experiences you encounter traveling
toward your destiny. Either way, by your will or mine, I will be right there
with you as I’ve always been. I write to
you in this, your 30th year of life, to give you this special
birthday gift, though you might see it as more of a puzzle than a blessing.
You are not who you think yourself to be. Know Thyself!
You, my faithful servant, at heart are a Raider. Go West and discover those treasures awaiting
you. Pledge to choose a path based on
your soulful needs over financial desires, trusting that I am always with
you. What might at first seem unwise and
foolish to agents and those who’ve profited by blessed talents bestowed on you,
will be revealed as the link to your fulfillment as a man in touch with his
destiny. The gleam of life, which you’ll surely
discover in this new journey, will eventually become evident to those who might’ve
doubted, including yourself.
Again, be mindful and watchful of distracting forces. This time, choose not only with the hungry head,
but practice using the other decision-making instrument of which I’ve blessed
you with; a humble heart. Do not be deceived, for a humble heart sees what a
hungry head is sometimes too full to discern.
Oakland, California needs you my servant, as much as you
need Oaktown. Seek not what you’ve found
in Chicago or Cincinnati. Go where you
can feel my Pacific waters calming the summer air around you at night. Go experience the California sunshine splashing down reminding you of my presence before, during and after the dark, threatening
storm. Awake to the winds of autumn blustering
in from sea, greeting you to a new day in My blessed bay. A place where past transgressions are forgiven and no stone be cast should new ones arise.
"Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep
searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened for
you.” In giving of yourself you will surely receive tenfold.
For I promise this and more to all those of faith. I Am always with you Cedric. And win, lose or tie, I Am a Raider!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Giants Join Dodgers Atop NL West With 3 Game Sweep
The San Francisco Giants are on the rise while the former division leading L.A. Dodgers are nose diving. Today's game at AT&T park pitted Giants Tim Lincecum against Dodgers Chad Billingsly. The Freak pitched the Giants to a 3-0 shutout and a share of that division lead the Dodgers seemed to have a strong grip on earlier in the season.
It was the first since moving to San Francisco in '58 that the Giants shutout the Dodgers three games in a row. This three game series was dominated by Giants pitching, defense and hitting. What more could a Giants fan ask for? Another World Series run? Why of course!
I was at the park today peeking some of the action from the knothole. The place was packed, so much so that the knothole usher had to institute the three inning rule, clearing the knothole visitors every three innings so that the line of visitors forming outside the gate could get a turn.
While waiting my turn I overheard talk of the Dodgers fan who drunkenly fell into the bay after Monday's 8-0 Giants win. His friend supposedly said one minute he was standing next to him and the next he just wasn't there. The coast guard dredged for his body but didn't find it. Odd that I haven't read or heard anything in the news about the incident.
With this most recent sweep of the Dodgers, who saw slugger Andre Either leave the game with an oblique muscle strain, the Giants have clearly become the team to beat in the NL West. The Arizona Diamondbacks have been hot, but today it was reported that their pitching ace Hudson, might need tommy john surgery which takes a year to heal from. Hudson's getting a second opinion.
It was the first since moving to San Francisco in '58 that the Giants shutout the Dodgers three games in a row. This three game series was dominated by Giants pitching, defense and hitting. What more could a Giants fan ask for? Another World Series run? Why of course!
I was at the park today peeking some of the action from the knothole. The place was packed, so much so that the knothole usher had to institute the three inning rule, clearing the knothole visitors every three innings so that the line of visitors forming outside the gate could get a turn.
While waiting my turn I overheard talk of the Dodgers fan who drunkenly fell into the bay after Monday's 8-0 Giants win. His friend supposedly said one minute he was standing next to him and the next he just wasn't there. The coast guard dredged for his body but didn't find it. Odd that I haven't read or heard anything in the news about the incident.
With this most recent sweep of the Dodgers, who saw slugger Andre Either leave the game with an oblique muscle strain, the Giants have clearly become the team to beat in the NL West. The Arizona Diamondbacks have been hot, but today it was reported that their pitching ace Hudson, might need tommy john surgery which takes a year to heal from. Hudson's getting a second opinion.
Congratulations Zito, Vogelsong and Lincecum on slaying Da'Bums and putting the Giants back where they belong.
Sada Abe (阿部 定) 1936
movie based on actual events
I tell yah, you go browsing for something on the internet and you stumble across information that makes you gasp in wonder. And then the thought of the victim in this story possibly loving every minute of it drives you to want a stiff drink. The following quotes are taken from wikipedia's:(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sada_Abe)
When I bumped into the story of a Japanese woman cutting off her lover's penis in 1936, I figured it to be just another cheatin' man receiving pay in full for his mistreatment of a woman scorned. But then I kept reading and reading and reading and came across what the little Japanese woman told the interrogating police officer her reason for chopping it off was:
"I loved him so much, I wanted him all to myself. But since we were not husband and wife, as long as he lived he could be embraced by other women. I knew that if I killed him no other woman could ever touch him again, so I killed him....."
She told the police this with sparkling eyes reflecting her excitement at doing the deed.
When asked why the genitalia, our little woman replied, "Because I couldn't take his head or body with me. I wanted to take the part of him that brought back to me the most vivid memories.
Mind you she'd killed her lover in his sleep by strangling him to death with her sash. She later told police, "After I had killed Ishida I felt totally at ease, as though a heavy burden had been lifted from my shoulders, and I felt a sense of clarity." After lying with Ishida's body for a few hours, she next severed his genitalia with the kitchen knife, wrapped them in a magazine cover, and kept them until her arrest three days later.
Sada Abe was not a woman scorned or cheated on. Sada was a woman who after years of promiscuity, finally found the one man who could satisfy her needs in every way. Evvvery Way! She'd contemplated committing suicide after the murder by jumping off a cliff with the severed penis in her hand as she details at the end of this confession:
"I felt attached to Ishida's penis and thought that only after taking leave from it quietly could I then die. I unwrapped the paper holding them and gazed at his penis and scrotum. I put his penis in my mouth and even tried to insert it inside me... It didn't work however though I kept trying and trying. Then, I decided that I would flee to Osaka, staying with Ishida's penis all the while. In the end, I would jump from a cliff on Mount Ikoma while holding on to his penis."
In the end Sada didn't take the plunge but instead was arrested, tried and sentenced to six years in prison; she served five before being released. She must've had a very sexual character, for the presiding judge admitted to being sexually aroused by some of the details involved in the case, yet made sure that the trial was held with the utmost seriousness.
The relationship between Sada and her lover Ishada was an erotically charged sadomasochistic sexual frenzy that eventually went up in flames. The background on Sada Abe's life might've contributed to her overly sexed desires. Her father had rented her out to a geisha house as a young woman, which was not necessarily a thing looked down upon. Her lover, Kichizo Ishida, had been known for his womanizing ways before he met Sada. Seems they were a match made for one another.
As with the 1936 headlines, today Sada Abe would definitely garner front page newprint as well as top story status across the internet. But in 1936 Japan and the world were different. What was the same however was the love residing in the heart of a woman. It sure doesn't justify the crime but it gives us a glimpse into the climaxing heights and darkly deep caverns of love.
Here's Sada's statement before sentencing:
"The thing I regret most about this incident is that I have come to be misunderstood as some kind of sexual pervert... There had never been a man in my life like Ishida. There were men I liked, and with whom I slept without accepting money, but none made me feel the way I did toward him."
Sada Abe
1905-1970
Newspaper photo taken shortly after Abe's arrest, at Takanawa Police Station, Tokyo on May 20, 1936.BornMay 28, 1905[1]
Kanda, Tokyo, Japan[1]Diedafter 1970Charge(s)Second-degree murder, and mutilation of a corpse[2]Penalty6 years imprisonment
(commuted)Occupationgeisha, prostitute, maid, author, actress, waitressParentsShigeyoshi and Katsu Abe[
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Historic Bay Bridge Series
Design by Kara Brown
The San Francisco Giants and Oakland A's battled it out for 4 hours and 15 minutes in a game full of drama and suspense. It was truly a Hitchcock-like thriller showcasing an action packed beginning, tension building middle story and ending climax that simply took your breath away. I found myself pacing back and fourth while screaming at the television as if I was watching my beloved Raiders. Talk about a game that brought out the passion of baseball fans.
There was so much drama in this game 2 of a three game series. If Friday's Game 1 was a classic, I'm thinking this game was an epic in technicolor. So many plots and subplots to the game.
Chronicle sports writer Susan Slusser wrote a wonderful article about the game. She points out what many of us caught up in the tensions of the game might've missed; five players named Brandon played in the game, two for the Giants and three for the A's. In a game that told its own story on the field, it was very entertaining to read Susan's "Brandon" angled article, 'SF Giants survive A's 9th inning rally, win 9-8.'
I think Susan might of hit upon something. If the 2010 Giants season carried a "Torture" theme, then 2012 is definitely a Giants "Survive" season. Gloria Gaynor, where are you?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)