Raiders Tailgate New Feature

Raider Fans, do whatever you gotta do to have Monday afternoon off at work. Because the pre-game tailgating activities are gonna kickoff five hours before game time, and it's gonna be a Party. You know how we do it out there.

There's a new feature to tailgating this season, the Oakland Raiders Organization has setup a "Tailgate Zone" in the Coliseum parking lot. This might be worth checking out. The Tailgate Zone pic alone got my passion bubbling. Great artwork Raiders. Seems to be another improvement by the organization in attempting to bond with us fans. A good tailgating event for the kids too.

Remember to be responsible and Tailgate Safely. The eyes of the NFL will most likely pay a visit to our tailgating neighborhood come Monday and we don't want the cameras misrepresentin our passion for the Raiders. We may bleed silver and black but there's no honor in spilling blood while tailgating. It's a Party!

The Autumn Winds are Calling

I arrive home Friday after putting in a good days work. One new message is flashing on the answering machine. I press play and hear a pre-recorded message from Oakland Raiders Hall of Fame Center Jim Otto. When you think of Jim Otto you think of a tough, durable and loyal Raider who still bleeds silver and black. He's the only player I remember wearing number 00 other than 1970's Oilers WR Kenny Burroughs. Simply put, Jim Otto is a Legend.

So when the message started with "Hi, this is Jim Otto of the Oakland Raiders Organization" I stopped opening my mail and froze with mouth open and ears tuned in. Its not often I've gotten a call from a Raider Legend thanking me for purchasing season tickets and encouraging me to bring my passion to the coliseum on Monday night against the Chargers. Jim f*cking Otto, the silver and black John Wayne.

I know it was just a pre-recorded phone call that could have been a marketing pitch except for one noticeable thing. Jim wasn't selling anything, he wasn't taking a survey or asking for donations. The call was a sincere attempt from the Oakland Raiders Organization to reach out and show their appreciation to every season ticket purchaser. I don't think the OFMA of years past even sent a hint of appreciation much less a phone call of thanks from a Raider Legend.

For those of us who received the call, we appreciate being acknowledged for supporting our team. It's things like this that make our Raiders family that much closer. You know how a parent feels when receiving a call from their child just because they appreciate you. Well, we of the Raider Nation see our team as our baby. We support it as best we can through all the trials and tribulations of growing. Through the good times and bad we're there cheering or comforting our team. And when our child proves itself superior we'll be there crying tears of joy as our Raiders hoist the Lomabardi Trophy into the air claiming victory for our family.

We Are The Raider Nation. We Support One Another. We Welcome the 2006 Season.

Let's Play Some Football!

Win Lose or Tie
Raider T'il I Die

A Word On Domestic Violence

A blog reprint from a year ago. Why? Because I visited a Battered Women's Crisis Center today and was reminded of the help many of us Men still need in learning how to treat our women. It ain't cool Man. Matter of fact, it's down right Criminal.


Domestic Violence

Well the Park Ranger is off the hook for treating the homicide suspect lightly, but the state courts sure have a lot of explaining to do.

Turns out the body in the trunk was the suspect’s ex-girlfriend whom he'd threatened, attacked, stalked and pretty much told the world he'd kill her someday.

The paper lists the guy's three plus felonies dating back to the year 2000, all involving violent actions toward the girlfriend. He spent less than six months in county jail for all this and lastly was ordered to attend a domestic violence counseling class. They say he'd attended one of the classes just two days before the ex-girlfriend disappeared.

Guys, let me preach to you about how not to go off the deep end and violently attack the woman you love. Unless you just have a flat out hatred for all women (seek help if you do) you should understand that using physical strength against a woman is easy and addictive. It gives the abuser a sense of power that's most likely stronger than anything he's experienced in his life. Crack cocaine is close but eventually the money runs out. I suppose it’s like the edge an athlete gets from taking steroids, but with no dosage control. That powerful feeling can make a man feel indestructible. When that happens anything is possible. Because once a man feels he's indestructible then there's no need for him to respect anything or anyone. At that point he’s out of control of himself.

So men, before we allow ourselves to go off the deep end and lose it when dealing with our women, just walk away. She may scream at us, curse us or say the most hurtful things to us that anyone could imagine, still just walk away. Her words are her fists and many women under physical or emotional strain don't realize the impact their words may carry. Most likely we share in the cause of her emotional strain as relationships can be emotionally draining at times. But words hurtful to a man’s ego or dignity do not justify a violent response, especially when spoken by a woman.

For us that love sports, watching a game can be an outlet for frustrations in a relationship. Hell, it was the disagreements in my marriage that steered me toward becoming a Raiders season ticket holder. We eventually divorced, but she's alive and well and I'm still free to go to the coliseum, cover my face in silver and black war paint, eat, drink and scream my frustrations out at the opposing team.

Bottom line; find some way to gain control of that inner monster that we're all capable of becoming. Know the inner workings of your own emotions and the things that trigger good and bad actions in you. As the wise old saying goes ‘Know Thy Self’. And when all else fails remember to just walk away. You can always try to love her another day. Love should never become as dysfunctional as to warrant a violent act. Once a man’s violence replaces his love and respect for a woman, the only thing he can become tomorrow is the monster in her worse nightmare. Don’t become a monster!

Just Walk Away!

W. Powell

Land From Down-Under Loses An Ambassador

As Australia mourns the loss of a native son, we who love learning about animals share in their loss.

Steve Irwin, who died today from a stingray barb during a diving expedition, not only introduced us to animals but showed us how to (or not to) mingle with animals in their habitat.

I remember as a kid watching Lorne Green's "Wild Kingdom" show. Lorne would narrate while his assistant Bob would get close to wild animals in their habitat. It was a great show but the close calls they had with the animals seem staged compared to today's standards. But it was the 70's and who knew? Lorne was the man.

It wasn't until Steve Irwin's show "Crocodile Hunter" aired years later that Lorne's Wild Kingdom lost a bit of its bite. What Crocodile Hunter did was put you the viewer on the edge of danger with Steve while he approached a wild animal, caught it and pried open its jowls to show you its carniverous set of choppers. All done while explaining to us what would happen if we ever got caught by such an animal. I don't ever recall Lorne or Bob showing such courage. Maybe a zoom in on a pack of lions roaming the Serengeti Plains, but Lorne didn't take any chances when it came to getting out on foot and approaching a wild animal.

The Crocodile Hunter was just the opposite. He had to get a close up view of the animals and their habitat and instead of showing fear he displayed a kid-like curiousity that brought out the curious george kid in all of us watching.

We Americans loved the movie character "Crocodile Dundee" when it hit the screens here in the United States. But we knew the character was just a Hollywood re-creation of a tarzan-like hero. That was until the Crocodile Hunter landed on the screen. Crocodile Hunter was the real Dundee. He really had a way with animals that very few humans have. What made him so enjoyable to watch was that he loved doing what he did and he made you love watching him do it.

Personally, I'm not much of an animal lover. I'm ashamed to say that I did all the bad things Little boys dream of doing to animals. Cats, Frogs, Turtles and Insects all were just torture victims throughout my childhood. I wasn't curious to see how animals lived but how they died. That bit of sadistic treatment probably is what molded me into the horror movie and rabid contact sports fanatic that I am today. I'm not proud of it but as Popeye would say, "I am what I am."

Had I had a Steve Irwin on the tube during my childhood teaching me how to meet and mingle with animals maybe I'd be a pet owner today, who knows? But I'm glad to have had a chance to watch Steve in action and he's taught me lessons I continue to learn everyday, lessons like you're never to old to learn and instead of being fearful of things unknown, be curious and adventurous learning about them. And Careful!

I don't know all the details of Steve Irwin's death, but it sounds like he died doing what he loved, exploring the animal kingdom.

Steve Irwin, aka "Crocodile Hunter", dead at age 44.

#85 Doug Gabriel Traded to New England

I was shocked to hear the Raiders traded Doug Gabriel. I thought Gabriel was the best possession receiver we had and always seemed to come up with spetacular catches. If the reason for trading Gabriel is because we have depth at wide receiver then I sure hope Ronald Curry can stay healthy and Jerry Porter stays. If defenses continue to double Moss, then that all important possession receiver becomes very important for us.

Gabriel was also good for returning punts. If we're trying to get to and win a superbowl "NOW," I don't understand giving up so much for a #1 pick next season.

I don't believe Art Shell could have had a say in the decision. Art has to know the importance of Gabriel in the offense. I'd almost say that Gabriel is, I mean was the closest thing to a Cliff Branch that we had. So much for returning to the glory days. I'm pissed at the Raiders for making a decision that may just come back to bite'em in the azz.

Congratulations New England Patriots on acquiring a quality young receiver that will pay dividends for years to come.

Thanks for the memories Doug, and good luck over there in the east.

Oakland Raiders 2006 Roster

Here are the Raiders players that coach Art Shell will lead into battle this season:


# Name POS Ht Wt Age Exp College
47 Adkisson, James TE 6-5 230 26 1 South Carolina
83 Anderson, Courtney TE 6-6 270 25 3 San Jose State
21 Asomugha, Nnamdi CB 6-2 210 25 4 California
70 Badger, Brad G 6-4 320 31 10 Stanford
67 Boothe, Kevin G 6-5 315 23 R Cornell
91 Brayton, Tyler DE 6-6 280 26 4 Colorado
2 Brooks, Aaron QB 6-4 220 30 8 Virginia
56 Burgess, Derrick DE 6-2 260 28 6 Mississippi
23 Carr, Chris CB 5-10 180 23 2 Boise State
40 Cooper, Jarrod S 6-1 215 28 6 Kansas State
32 Crockett, Zack RB 6-2 240 33 12 Florida State
89 Curry, Ronald WR 6-2 210 27 5 North Carolina
50 Ekejiuba , Isaiah LB 6-4 240 24 2 Virginia
31 Eugene, Hiram DB 6-2 200 25 1 Louisiana Tech
25 Fargas, Justin RB 6-1 220 26 4 USC
49 Foschi, John Paul RB 6-4 270 24 2 Georgia Tech
76 Gallery, Robert T 6-7 325 26 3 Iowa
36 Gibson, Derrick SS 6-2 215 27 6 Florida State
64 Grove, Jake C 6-4 300 26 3 Virginia Tech
77 Hawthorne, Anttaj DT 6-3 310 24 2 Wisconsin
53 Howard, Thomas LB 6-3 240 23 R UTEP
24 Huff, Michael S 6-1 205 23 R Texas
71 Hulsey, Corey G 6-4 325 29 5 Clemson
94 Huntley, Kevin DE 6-7 270 24 1 Kansas State
96 Irons, Grant LB 6-6 285 27 5 Notre Dame
11 Janikowski, Sebastian K 6-2 250 28 7 Florida State
51 Johnstone, Lance DE 6-5 250 33 11 Temple
34 Jordan, LaMont RB 5-10 230 27 6 Maryland
93 Kelly, Tommy DT 6-6 300 25 3 Mississippi State
9 Lechler, Shane P 6-2 225 30 7 Texas A&M
42 Lee, ReShard RB 5-10 220 25 3 Middle Tennessee State
10 Madsen, John WR 6-5 220 23 R Utah
79 McQuistan, Paul T 6-6 315 23 R Weber State
19 Morant, Johnnie WR 6-4 220 24 3 Syracuse
52 Morrison, Kirk LB 6-2 240 24 2 San Diego State
18 Moss, Randy WR 6-4 210 29 9 Marshall
38 Poole, Tyrone DB 5-8 190 34 12 Fort Valley State
84 Porter, Jerry WR 6-2 220 28 7 West Virginia
26 Routt, Stanford CB 6-1 195 23 2 Houston
90 Sands, Terdell DT 6-7 335 26 4 Tenn.-Chattanooga
99 Sapp, Warren DT 6-2 300 33 12 Miami (Fla.)
30 Schweigert, Stuart S 6-1 210 25 3 Purdue
65 Sims, Barry T 6-5 300 31 8 Utah
78 Slaughter, Chad T 6-8 340 28 6 Alcorn State
58 Thomas, Robert LB 6-0 235 26 5 UCLA
62 Treu, Adam C 6-5 300 32 10 Nebraska
8 Tuiasosopo, Marques QB 6-1 220 27 6 Washington
66 Walker, Langston T 6-8 345 26 5 California
16 Walter, Andrew QB 6-6 230 24 2 Arizona State
27 Washington, Fabian CB 5-11 185 23 2 Nebraska
87 Whitted, Alvis WR 6-0 185 31 9 North Carolina State
86 Williams, Randal TE 6-3 235 28 6 New Hampshire
54 Williams, Sam LB 6-5 260 26 4 Fresno State
Injured Reserve
59 Bing, Darnell LB 6-2 230 21 R USC
82 Francis, Carlos WR 5-10 190 25 3 Texas Tech
28 Green, DeJuan RB 5-11 205 26 1 South Florida
73 Quarshie, Michael DT 6-2 295 26 1 Columbia
43 Santiago, O.J. TE 6-7 265 32 7 Kent State
43 Wusu, Timi LB 6-3 210 23 R Stanford

Death Race 2006

Call me a sick puppy for this one. Front page headline in SF reads "Driver's Rampage." Its worth the read, trust me. If you were around in 1975 you may remember the movie "Death Race 2000," where hit and run driving is no longer a felony, it's Thee National Sport.

Here's the plot:
In 2000 America has been rebuilt by one man, the President has become an emperor. With this power he created the Race. Every year violent role-playing psychopaths are placed behind the wheels of high performance killing machines and sent across the country. Their goal? Finish alive with the most points from running down as many pedestrians as possible and it's all perfectly legal. See a line of doctors and nurses on the sidewalk? Thump, thump, thump: 110 points.

points are scored for every person killed, with different point values depending on the age, gender and importance of the person killed. According to the movie, the point system appears to be as follows:

* Male adult: 20
* Male teenager: 40
* Male infant/toddler: 70
* Female (any age): +10 point bonus
* Senior citizen (regardless of gender): 100


Back to the future in San Francisco, a seemingly normal young man got behind the wheel of an SUV and began a driving rampage that would leave one dead and fourteen injured. He started by collecting his one casualty in Fremont then must of figured the pickings were better in the big city. In San Francisco, with all the jaywalking homeless, outdoor cafe sitters and window shopping tourist available, our deranged driver suffered ecstasy overload and blew a fuse. He began his game of picking off people with his SUV and didn't stop until police rammed his car and pulled him out unfazed by the carnage he'd caused.

If points were being given for victims he wouldn't have scored in the top ten of a death race. But from the looks of it he was driving for bonus points when he hit an FBI agent out on a lunchtime stroll. It was said that there were many near misses of pedistrians, maybe our driver needs an eye exam.

In one case he hit two persons, then when the ambulance arrived and medics were attending to the injured, he returned to finish the job. Like a predator taunting his prey. Witnesses, and there's always witnesses after the crime, say when he rode past the second time he looked them in the eye with a hateful stare. He was probably mad that they'd taken points away from him by helping the injured.

One witness describes what he saw:

"I was in my car coming south on Filmore and the light turned green. Two seconds after my car was in the intersection I saw the SUV coming 35 or 40 mph and hit the main in the crosswalk. His body was thrown 25 feet. His body stuck to the grille of the car and was tossed off as the car turned right. If the guy had not turned right I believe this guy would have been run over completely."

Now, with the driver in custody, I wonder if pedestrians in San Francsico will pay more attention when crossing the streets? Mind you our death race driver scored points by driving on sidewalks as well. Suprisingly, he didn't score points by hitting any bicyclists although he did demolish a parked bicycle on the sidewalk. Boy, I bet he'll be pissed when he learns "Critical Mass" was just last Friday.

For the full story of this deathrace fiasco go to San Francisco Chronicle's "Driver's Rampage-Chaso In The Streets."

I seriously see a Hollywood Production coming out of this horror. Where is David Carradine these days?

Welcome Home 2006 Little League World Champions

Ryan Lane, left and Cody Walker look at the front page of the Atlanta Journal Constitution featuring the headline "World Champs" and a picture of them taken Monday moments after their team won the Little League World Series title, as they arrive at Hartsfield-Jackson International on their way home to Columbus, Ga., Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2006, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)


Imagine watching your kid on television hit the game winning home run in the little league world championship being played in Japan? You have to wait for his return to hug him and tell him how proud you are of him. Imagine the emotions taking over you as he steps off the plane with the rest of his championship team?

Well, that did happen to a lucky parent the other day and I'm sure she and her son are still on a high.

For those who missed it, Cody Walker slugged his team to victory with a two run homer off Japan pitcher Go Matsumoto. Cody may be the game MVP with that one swing of the bat, but the entire Columbus,Ga. team deserves the credit for a Championship Season fulfilled.

As a matter of fact, I'm sure all the proud parents of the Columbus,Ga. Little League Team are flying high as their kids settle in back at home as Little League World Champions.

Congratulations Kids, Well Done!

Raider Nation Celebration Day

I won't let the news of QB Jeff George being signed ruin my post celebration day today. the Raider Nation came out in full force to meet, greet and be treated to a fun-filled Raider Nation Celebration at McAfee Coliseum yesterday afternoon. Though there wasn't as much used team merchandise on sale as last year, many fans left with the looks of having participated in a shopping spree.

This being the second annual Raider Nation Celebration held at the Coliseum, the Raiders Organization knows how to make us fans feel an important part of the family. I only wish the national media could have been there to see the pride and passion of true Raiders fans minus the alcohol and tailgating fool who always seems to get tv coverage with his unsportsmanlike outbursts.

The Raider Nation Celebration is a day of true sharing and caring. Its what we as Raiders fans look forward to as much as seeing our team win. Its a day of sharing the pride of being home with the Silver & Black family both on the field and in the stands.

Many priceless moments, believe me. Watching a seven year old girl with eyeblack on and wearing a #18 Moss Jersey begging her mom for a new Warren Sapp #99 jersey in Black? Priceless!

A Blind thirteen year old with his walking stick and dark glasses walking unguided away from the front row of section 117 with an autographed football held tightly under his arm, his father trailing behind with a smile bright enough to clear their path? Priceless!

Randy Moss playing catch with fans in the stands opposite the main celebration area? And the fans continued throwing the ball back instead of keeping it? Priceless!

Seeing Raider Legend and Hall of Famer Jim Otto "JOG" from the tunnel when introduced wearing a big John Wayne smile and looking good in a black suit? Priceless.

Hearing the fans cheer just as loud for Run Run Jones, the leagues oldest and longest tenured equipment coordinator, as for Randy Moss during introductions?

And finally, seeing and hearing John Madden's introduction into the Hall of Fame as it played on the jumbotrons throughout the day, Priceless!

John Madden said it best during his introduction speech. "Stand and remain standing, this is our day of recognition, enjoy it."

Well John, if ever the Raider Nation Fans felt recognized and respected as part of the Raiders Organization, yesterday was that day for us.

Thank You Oakland Raiders Organization for giving us our day of Celebration once again.

How To Reply To A Chain Prayer Email

I received a chain prayer email that suggested I forward it to 8 persons in order to receive a miracle from God tomorrow. Now I'm not the most religious guy on the net but I do know the difference between God's words and those of an IT addict with fundamentalist religious beliefs and a Jimmy Swaggert collection plate offering.

So I replied with the following humble yet questioning message to all thirty or so blessed souls who'd been sent this email of holy promise. Feel free to use it the next time you receive such a email blessing.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I truly appreciate these chain emails of shared blessings and prayers. What I fail to understand is the misunderstanding or superstitious belief of passing emails on to 8 people in order to receive a miracle from God.

Those of us who put God first in our lives count the numerous miracles God has granted us every moment of the day:

A respectful child
A proud parent
A wise grandparent
A loving brother or sister
A soulful church member
A humble stranger
A understanding friend
A helpful co-worker
A soothing pet
A new day
A meal
A home
A breath

If you havent looked upon one of the above as a miracle from God, then perhaps passing this email on to 8 persons will enlighten you to the miracles in your life tomorrow. But remember, God's been performing miracles way before he granted us email. Its our awareness that is sometimes lacking or distracted.

God Bless All of You!

note: We often take God's gifts for granted. Its when we find ourselves deprived of those basic needs in life that we become aware of God's blessings upon us.

Raiders Slay Lions 21-3

Simply Beautiful!
Moss 63 yard TD Catch








SCORING SUMMARY
1ST QUARTER
TD Randy Moss, 63 Yd pass from Aaron Brooks (Sebastian Janikowski kick is good), 14:00. Drive: 3 plays, 64 yards in 1:00.
2ND QUARTER
TD Randy Moss, 25 Yd pass from Aaron Brooks (Sebastian Janikowski kick is good), 13:39. Drive: 9 plays, 59 yards in 4:29.
TD LaMont Jordan, 14 Yd run (Sebastian Janikowski kick is good), 8:51. Drive: 6 plays, 75 yards in 3:15.
3RD QUARTER
FG Jason Hanson 38 Yd, 2:07. Drive: 8 plays, 62 yards in 4:03.
4TH QUARTER
None

Friday night at the Coliseum was party time for the Raider Nation. With the team jelling and taking care of business on the field the fans were rollicking in the stands with preseason giddiness. Why? Because Our Oakland Raiders have heeded to the teachings of coach Art Shell. They've returned to their winning ways and are doing it in ol'skool Raiders style.

Offensive line play was brilliant. QB Aaron Brooks looks comfortable and is clicking with Randy Moss. Running game setup a clicking passing game. Defense shutdown pass and run. Special teams is giving opponents irregular cardiac palpatations while with the ball and causing cardiac arrest with their relentless pursuit of the ball. Penalties weren't much of a factor and no known injuries. A very productive night and quality victory for the Raiders.

Just to throw out some players who made outstanding plays tonight:

LB KirkMorrison, KR Chris Carr, RB Lamont Jordan, DE Derrick Burgess, DT Terdell Sands, C Corey Hulsey, T Langston Walker, TE Randall Williams, DB Tyrone Poole, SS Derrick Gibson, CB Stanford Routt, P Shane Lechler, RB Justin Fargas

The Oakland Raiders have been revitalized with strength, leadership and speed. Look out NFL, We're Back and Nastier Than Ever.

Raiders Center Jake Grove Shoulder Injury

Oakland Raiders starting center Jake Grove injured his shoulder in practice Tuesday and will miss this Friday's exhibition game against the Seattle Seahawks. A huge blow to an offensive line that allowed no sacks and great protection in the win over the 49ers.

This news comes a day after charges for assaulting a police officer were dropped against former Raiders center Barrett Robbins, an integral part on the team's 2002 road to the superbowl. Barrett unfortunately suffers from Bi-polar and we wish him well on his road to recovery.

In the meantime, little experienced OG, Corey Hulsey, will takeover center duties and coach Art Shell feels confident that Hulsey can get the job done.

Grove is scheduled for a second MRI on his left shoulder and I suppose he could be back soon, but from the sound of it the news ain't good. I like the fact that coach Shell is taking this bitter pill of news and using it as way to show confidence in backup position players with less experience. The message to backup players is "Be Prepared to Play."

Tainted Body Parts?

Somebody tell me just what the hell is going on in the medical field. We're paying high prices for what is supposed to be the best medical insurance money can buy and now this? And this isn't the first time either.

Oh, for those who didn't know let me bring you up to speed. Human Cadaver tissue is used regularly in routine operations these days. If you've had any knee or back surgery lately, chances are someone's uncle vinny from Hoboken,New Jersey, who died recently, played a small part in your surgical plan.

Wait a minute! Maybe I'm not the one to give you this news. I only came across it by chance myself. Here's a link to the story I found at of all places, Healthwatch:

"Body Parts Harvested in N.C. Recalled"

For us horror movie fans who pride ourselves on being able to sit through some of the most gory scenes and heartpumping suspense, real life stories like this are making Hollywood scare movies boring and unreal. Let's face it, we've reached a point where the real events happening in the world are scarier than fiction.

An American Tragedy

I watched the first part of a two part documentary called "When the Levees Broke", showing events that occurred before during and after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. HBO, along with Spike Lee has documented a tragic event in current American history that makes you take notice.

I watched hypnotized as I did almost a year ago when seeing CNN news reports on the effects of Hurricane Katrina in the gulf coast. I also wondered as before why? Why wasn't there help sent sooner?

After watching part one of "When the Levees Broke" I'm still wondering just what the hell has happened to America that a tragedy like this could occur in a modern city of ours?

The documentary isn't so much a finger pointing blame game, but a documenting reflection on what happens when tragedy strikes, help doesn't come and hope is fading fast. Individuals step up and help where American politics and whatever else prevents federal emergency assistance from immediate deployment.

One smack in the face to America was when Venzuela and other small countries offered assistance while FEMA promised but delivered very late. New Orleans mayor Ray Nagin talked about having the Canadiaan Mounties show up offering assistance before the American military showed up.

But again, it's not a documentary that judges or blames but one that puts you there with the people who lived it and watched loved ones die from it.

The filming and the music which accompanied it are a sort of homage to the courage of the survivors much like the many 9/11 documentaries except for the human aftermath. In 9/11 we related to the tragedy visually through the deadly impact of airplanes and the structural demolition of two buildings, no bodies and few survivors. In the Hurricane Katrina tragedy we saw the hurricane, saw the dead and watched in horror the hopeless aftermath where thousands of suffering survivors were stranded with little help. A Natural Disaster may have started this tragedy, but its obvious from the documentary that the breakdown in human response attributed to the disaster.

If I were a political science professor I'd assign the viewing of this documentary to all students. Be a student and watch this HBO show. Its smart to educate yourself about the country you thought you knew and the heroic potential of people like those you may know.

Witnessing Tiger

Tiger Woods won another PGA Tournament (the 88th annual PGA tournament) and we sports fans are fortunate to be alive to witness the coming of such a player.

I myself did not watch Tiger's latest championship tour but as you know, the media is hyping Tiger as the coming messiah of sports. They say there's never been one like him and most likely another won't come for some time. Sounds kind of christ-like to me.

I give Tiger credit for his hard work and dedication to the game of golf. Whether or not golfers are true athletes or deserve comparison to spiritual teachers is a debate I'll resurrect on another day. For now, Tiger Woods is yet again dominating his sport and the fans fully embrace him with their hearts and souls.

Here's a link to an interesting article by espn columnist Gene Wojciechowski: Woods is greatest individual athlete ever

The Battle That Wasn't

We came to the Oakland Coliseum expecting a Bay Area Football Battle. We left after witnessing two Oakland Raiders merciful kneeldowns to end the game in convincing victory.

The Raiders dominated the 49ers in all phases of a 23-7 win. Quarterback Aaron Brooks looked much better in his leadership performance today. He threw to his tight ends and running backs finally and he scrambled more. Quarterback Andrew Walter looked sharper as well. Watching the youngster play makes you want to just fast forward the deveolpment clock and see what he'll accomplish with experience.

Pass protection was improved, however I'm not sold on Lamont Jordan. To me he seems to dance to often when running, which is fine if you can shake defenders, but Lamont tends to get baked more than he shakes. He seems to always run toward defenders instead of around or away from them. He looks like a power runner trying to be a finesse runner. On the other hand I was very very impressed with the second string runners. RB Justin Fargas looked healthy and ran well, but the one that really impressed me was #42 ReShard Lee. Lee ran just the opposite of how Jordan ran. Lee followed his blockers, always moving forward, showed power, speed and finesse and looked like a tackler away from breaking a run wide open. The Raiders would be foolish not to give this newcomer a shot at running with the starting lineup. He might be the one to take over Zack Crockett's position. Sorry Zack, but I'd like seeing Lee and Jordan in the backfield with you relieving one or the other.

Wide Receiver Alvis Whitted and Doug Gabriel were active and looked good. Again, tight ends were effective. Randy Moss and Aaron Brooks haven't quite jelled yet but are getting closer. I saw Jerry Porter sneak onto the field, run a sprint route downfield to runoff his defender, then return back to the sideline. If he did more in the game I was not aware.

The Raider Defense is still playing better than last season. However, they didn't pressure the quarterback as much as I'd like to have seen. Rookie cornerback Michael Huff showed his first round pick skillz with an interception and return that should have gone for a touchdown but for his cleats getting tangled in the arms of a 49er quarterback. Huff will learn how to let his blockers annihilate an opposing quarterback's attempt at tackling during an interception return. Huff will have more chances this season I'm sure.

And so the Oakland Raiders are 3-0 in this 2006 preseason so far. Nothing to get all excited about, but the fact that the team is tasting what victory feels like is "soup for the soul" as they say.

If you missed it, there was a nostalgic video short that spliced in the old Autumn Wind highlight with current players quoting parts of the poem throughout. Good Job Raiders Marketing or whoever's responsible. Mixing the old with the new seems to be this season's theme. Just Win Baby....Now!

Oakland Raiders,

Battle of the Bay I

This Sunday will be the first of two meeting between Northern California's two NFL teams. This first battle counts for bragging rights up until the second battle which is scheduled for October 8, 2006, and counts as a regular season game.

I'll be there at the Coliseum cheering the Raiders on to victory. Looking forward to this, the first of two exhibition games at home. Who knows, maybe even Jerry Porter will play.

Not In Our House whiners!

Craigslist Collectibles

A visit to Craigslist revealed that I'm not old, I'm "Collectible." In craiglist's collectibles section I found a few items from my childhood listed along with some very interesting do dads. Actually not a bad place to search for sports collectibles. Only on the interent.

Mahogany round marble table----Nice - $170 (sunnyvale) pic

Capcom Rival Schools Arcade Game - $350 (hercules, pinole, san pablo, el sob) pic

American Girl (willow glen, cambrian)

******BUDDHA BUDDHA BUDDHA******

Soul Caliber 2 Arcade Game - $500 (hercules, pinole, san pablo, el sob) pic

Capcom 1944 arcade game - $350 (hercules, pinole, san pablo, el sob) pic

Vintage table -------- Solid wood ---->> >Nice - $61 (sunnyvale) pic

Ohio State vs Notre Dame Fiesta Bowl Programs - $30 (vallejo / benicia / fairfield) pic

PORCELAN LIGHTED CITY HALL, BANK, CHURCH, HOUSE AND SM. PEOPLE - $5 (san jose east) pic

PORCELAN CLOWNS-WHITE & BLK WITH SMALL TEAR - $6 (san jose east)

NEW FUTABA DIGITAL PROPORTIONAL RADIO CONTROL - $24 (san jose east) pic

NASCAR TRADINGCARDS - $1200

Museum piece, gold frame - $30 (berkeley) pic

LITE NEON - like new and many beer mirrors - $60 (san rafael) pic

HOT WHEELS TREASUREHUNTS - $350

1979 MEGO BUCK ROGERS LASERSCOPE FIGHTER (milpitas)

Doctor Who pinball - $1100 (santa clara) pic

New Guinea Art - $2050 (concord / pleasant hill / martinez) pic

Late 1800's Domestic Sewing Machine - $125 (petaluma)

Original 1942 Coca Cola Tray - 2 Girls with a Car - $125 (petaluma)

Official Barry Bonds Bobblehead - $6 (oakland piedmont / montclair) pic

Vietnamese Laquer Wall Hanging - $125 (brentwood / oakley) pic

7,500 D/C&D/C VERTIGO COMICS! a 100! to a 150! titles! maybe more? (berkeley west) pic

antique large hanging french olive oil container." - $100 pic

Hooka pipe - $60 (santa cruz)

CONVERTORS / LIKE TRANSFORMERS - $20 pic

Thomas Kinkade~Golden Gate Bridge~S/N Canvas - $2300 (dublin / pleasanton / livermore) pic

Tonka fire truck transformer - $20 pic

Old Stationary - $30 (Sacramento, CA) pic

Sentry Fire Safe - $200 (san jose)

Unpublished Manuscript (san jose)

Lafayette Legacy Collection, Limoges ,France Plate 1 - $20 (san jose south) pic

Princess House Crystal, Avon (corte madera)

BEANIE BABIES (san leandro)

Clouds-Pottery from Folsom CA - $75 (Sacramento, CA) pic

victor - $1150 (hayward / castro valley) pic

light - $500 (hayward / castro valley) pic

record player - $400 (hayward / castro valley) pic

Beveled glass mirror---solid wood---Nice - $99 (sunnyvale) pic

Poo Bear Collectables (lower nob hill) pic

Offensiveless Raiders defeat Vikings 16-13

Alright coach Shell, maybe its time to open that can of whuppazz you got stored away.

Asked if the Raiders are improving on offense, Randy Moss said, "I don't see it, Hell no, I don't see it."

Well you're not alone Randy, our offense looks lost and completely out of touch with any form of gameplan. While the defense and special teams are playing football, the offense is playing poker. They appear to be betting on big plays and bluffing their way toward running the ball.

Though they've won two exhibition games in like fashion, there's nothing for us fans to cheer about and plenty that concerns us. The Minnesota Vikings starting defense pressured Aaron Brooks and the entire offensive unit into an early submission, that is not Raiders Football. That familiar penalty flag made its seasonal debut for the Raiders showing that the more things change the more they remain the same.

But Hell, I ain't ready to throw out the new coach yet. Come on Raiders, get on the same page and make it work. I do not want to sit in the Coliseum this coming weekend and see our opponent (red & gold) claim Bay Area bragging rights for a day.

Don't make coach Shell have to open his can of whuppazz. You don't want him getting ugly.

Guess Who's Coming To Monday Night Football?

Along with the Oakland Raiders openning this season's Monday Night Football show comes a new guest. Tony Kornheiser, from the ESPN show "Pardon The Interruption," will be in the booth as the network takes over MNF broadcasting duties.

Kornheiser, the white guy, is the sportstalk guy I love to hate. Not that I like the other host, Michael Wilbon the black guy, any better, but he's a bit more tolerable. There's just something about Kornheiser that rubs my hide the wrong way. He's like the skinnier partner in siskel & ebert, God rest his soul. He plays devil's advocate and you'd swear he were actually the devil incarnate. He's obnoxuous, irratating and as arrogant as Lucifer himself.

For a scream-match show like "Pardon The Interruption" he probably fits the bill perfectly, but I'm concerned that his ranting and raving style will not go over so well in the broadcast booth. Football fans watching football games on tv want more of a style like what other host, Mike Tarico described:

"If I'm doing my job, I'll be like an offensive lineman or an official," Tirico said. "You'll know I'm there, but you won't really notice me."

If Kornheiser is unable to adjust his style to MNF, we fans may find ourselves petitioning ESPN to initiate the backup plan. There must be a redundancy plan I'm sure. Especially because Joe Theisman rounds out the group as the third host. So fans be ready, if you find yourselves missing the MNF voices of John Madden and Al Michaels in the booth, let ESPN know about it. Remember, this is ESPN's exhibition season also. And if it doesn't work during exhibition they need to be told so they can switch gears before the regular season. Remember Dennis Miller's failed attempt at MNF.

But for tonight I may not notice the booth so much because I'll be tuned in and ready for some Oakland Raiders football as they take on the Minnesota Vikings in this the first ESPN broadcast of MNF.

Are You Ready For Some Football Tony? You'd better be or else!