In Cahoots - The Blog Alliance

A Real Life Rock Star

2007-08-13T02:41:00.000-04:00

This week has been filled with numerous shopping trips to try to find the perfect outfit for Dave. He is scheduled to be in a photo shoot tomorrow morning at 7 (which is almost laughable) with his new band he is performing with.

Finally the ensemble is complete.

The theme turned out to be very Chris Robinsonish. It was mentioned by a female friend that Chris Robinson doesn't make the girls swoon (because he looks dirty and smelly). I think she is blatantly wrong. Dave and I both have personal proof that is in fact incorrect.

And check out these freaking shoes!

We also tried to get him in the role with being young punks. After a night of cosmic fog bowling...............................

We went back to the crib and played as a quartet until the neighbors started banging on the walls. Apparently electric guitars are especially loud when the amp is leaned against the wall and it is 2 am. Who knew?

All the while, Sigmund is indifferent.

I wish Dave luck, since he even went to the lengths of tweezing his eyebrows. He is well prepared. Now all he has to do is wake his ass up at 5:30 and get out the door.

One last one for good measure! That is one rockin' mofo.

Dave Carducci Post Update

2007-07-19T12:37:00.000-04:00

I'll have all the pictures and stories from Dave's mid-west tour this Sunday. (And Dave I'll send you a CD of all the photos....email me your address).

Do You Have a Garden City Physician?

2007-07-19T11:26:00.000-04:00

Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Mi may have the resources to promote an extensive campaign about the quality of their physicians with their tagline, “Do you have a Beaumont doctor?” But how does Beaumont truly rank among hospitals in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Washtenaw counties?

The Report on Health Care Performance done by www.vitalmichigan.com, does not have Beaumont rated so highly. The report, which looks at the management of heart attacks, heart failure, pneumonia, infection prevention, mortality and safety has Beaumont only rated in the top 25% in heart attack management, infection prevention and safety volume. In fact in the management of heart failure Beaumont ranks in the middle 50% and in the treatment of pneumonia ranks in the lowest 25% among hospitals in the Metro Detroit area.

One hospital that out-performed Beaumont in the management of these diseases was a small community hospital, Garden City Hospital. Garden City scored in the top 25% in the measured categories of heart attacks, heart failure, pneumonia, infection prevention, mortality and safety and in the top 50% in safety volume. The only other hospital in the Metro Detroit region that scored this highly was the University of Michigan; and Garden City still out-performed U of M in the management of pneumonia.

These measurements are largely based on discharge instructions and early in-patient care. For example, a patient discharged after a heart attack should receive certain medications, such as an ACE inhibitor, aspirin, Plavix, beta-blocker and a statin. If these medications are not prescribed for patients then the patient’s care is considered sub-optimal. Therefore, one problem with a report like this is assuming that all individuals should be treated the same, which may not necessarily apply to every individual patient.

The competition among hospitals has reached a nauseating point, with Beaumont insinuating their institution is the only one that can save someone’s life and Oakwood stating they can have a patient treated almost before they enter the emergency department. However, these hospitals do not measure up to other hospitals in the management of heart failure, heart attacks and pneumonia.

There is one hospital that does manage these diseases better than most hospitals, although they do not have the resources to offer elaborate marketing campaigns. That hospital is Garden City Hospital. Do you have a Garden City physician?

Moving On

2007-07-12T11:12:00.000-04:00

My stay in the EL was just as I expected. I got to see some friends and go out to some of my favorite places. Of course, I drank much too much! Yesterday the weather was gorgeous! Chris was able to take a little time out of his studies to have a Peanut Barrel lunch with me. I appreciated that. Other highlights included Oberon, arcade basketball, Caleb golf (which is golf infused with Miller Lite) Oberon, red pepper hummus, haircut, and Oberon. Somehow, I am managing to get out of town without having El Azteco. I am not sure if I am breaking some sort of law here. After dinner last night, I am not sure I could handle it though.

It is off to that state to the south to distract EZ from her studies and to see Dave Carducci perform.

That is, after I pack up all of the crap that I left at Caleb's when I moved. Hopefully my parents won't mind storing some of my garbage for eternity.

Does anyone have any thoughts or plans for Friday night. I think I heard something about AZ having Saturday off, so maybe Friday would be a good time to do something in a semi-fun to full out fun fashion. AZ is unable to be reached for comment, I tried.

One for Monday morning

2007-07-09T00:38:00.000-04:00

It has been a while since anyone from the Alliance has posted. AZ is much busier than I am, and I am just in my own little world.

I finally have my bearings straight and have found all of the things nearby that I need in my life. I also found a little bit of fun this weekend. It has been a while since I went to a show that wasn't the Wednesdees, which by the way, will be playing again on Saturday, July 14th at the Berkley Front in Berkley along with our very own Dave Carducci.

I staved off the insanely hot weather by staying near a pool or in air conditioning. That was not much fun, but was no worse than when I lived in Dallas. Dallas was like that for weeks in a row though.

Friday took me on a tour of my roommate's life. She just took off on tour with Rocco DeLuca and the Burden. I had only heard a little bit of him before at my roommate's prodding and wasn't sure what I would expect. To my surprise, (and with the help of Mary, I got to the Henry Fonda Theater quite easily) Thanks Mary! I ate a very amazing chicken schwarma pita from a run down joint. Then I waited in line. Then I was complimented about my T-shirt from three separate individuals. (I was afraid I wasn't hip enough for the Hollywood scene, huh). One girl especially liked it, but that was going nowhere because I didn't feel like having to give her a ride to high school on Monday.

The first opening act began. It was a woman by the name of Sara Bareilles. She played jazzy, bluesy, poppy, soulful, amazing piano and voice creations. She was also very easy on the eyes, which always helps. She sounded like a happy Fiona Apple with energy. I was thoroughly impressed, and maybe a little smitten. You should check her out at: www.sarabmusic.com
Her CD just was released July 3rd. I especially liked when she said to buy her CD, download it from iTunes, for free from the internet, or burn it from a friend. She was just so happy to share her music. That inspired me to buy her CD. She was lovely enough to chat after the show and sign it for me.

Rocco Deluca was pretty good as well. (there was a 2nd opening act, which does not even deserve a mention this long) Prior to the show, I commented on how some of his stuff sounded a bit like Muse. Afterward, I think it is more the falsetto singing alone that I drew my comparison from. When Rocco played his soulful songs he was a bit intense. When he turned a few of them into extended jam sessions, I was a little drawn away. Much of it was over-distorted effect laden noise. I also think he over uses his high register. That being said, he has great range and great soul. I just thought the extended sessions were a little obnoxious. I wish him, and my roommate all of the success in the world on tour.

That brings us to Saturday.

Saturday I was back in Hollywood at the Hollywood Bowl. There was a big HUGE ticket fiasco in which I officially withdraw my thanks and appreciation to Mary given above and also the thanks and appreciation that will most likely be due to Mary in the future. I am kinda sorta just kidding, maybe. There isn't enough time or space here to get into it now.

The Decemberists were playing a show and being accompanied by the LA Philharmonic Orchestra. But first was Andrew Bird. (Before that there was Band of Horses who didn't deserve even being called by name....BORING) Perched high above the Hollywood Bowl (Due to the aforementioned FIASCO) Andrew Bird took the stage. It was one of the most amazing things I have heard musically. He is such a busy artist and really makes all of his instruments (including his whistle) produce magical music. When his set was up, Renee and I concurred that we could have listened to him for the rest of the night.

Then came The Decemberists. Who knew they were such a wildly popular band? They had 15,000 people thoroughly entertained. It made us feel old and slightly out of touch or place, I am not sure which. The show was excellent. The orchestra backing gave it a kind of fullness that turned the concert into more of a performance spectacle. As they finished their encore, I got a dreaded phone call confirming that Mary dropped the ball and heard Camille tearing up our two box tickets that she had set aside for us over the phone. Although we laughed and joked about it, the fact of the matter is regardless of where we sat (although up much closer in box seats would have been unspeakably cooler) it was so much fun and provided immense audio pleasure. Our murderous plots of Mary simmered down to inflicting great bodily harm and eventually settled at random moments of general discomfort.

I made it safely home both times without incident.

I enjoyed my Sunday away from Hollywood and back in the comforts of the valley. I had a great dinner from the Marmalade Cafe and enjoyed a spectacular beer that I have never seen or heard of before. It was Firestone Walker Double Barrel Pale Ale. It is brewed out of Paso Robles, CA. Delicious!

I Hope everyone is doing well. Hopefully, I will see many of you soon.

fast and furious grocery shopping

2007-07-03T01:28:00.001-04:00

I went to Ralphs today to get some stuff for the BBQ on Wednesday. Luckily I forgot my list in the car. I ran out to get it and ran into Vin Diesel on the way back in. This wasn't even special Ralphs, like Britney's Ralphs or the one that had the shootout this past week. Whatever. I got my gettings and waited in line to check out to the likes of "I would walk 500 miles....". It made me think of Emily, naturally.

Goodnight.

Are You F*cking Serious?

2007-07-02T19:34:00.000-04:00

No way. No way.

I guess I'm not too surprised. Just extremely upset and disgusted.

George W. Bush is an incompetent President. He has lied to the public in order to go to war with Iraq. The two elections he has “won” have been heavily disputed, with multiple recounts showing he would have lost in 2000 and accusation of extensive voter fraud in Ohio in 2004. His Vice President is a power hunger man who tramples the Constitution for personal gains. Administrators in the White House have fired judges because their political beliefs were not in line with those of the neo-conservatives. This administration is about as bad as it gets with abusing power, secrecy and lying.

And now President Bush has commuted I. Lewis (Scooter) Libby. The man who leaked the name of an undercover CIA operative and faced up to 30 months in prison will serve no time thanks to his buddy getting him off the hook. So add to the list of abuses commuting prison sentences.

President Bush explained, "I respect the jury’s verdict. But I have concluded that the prison sentence given to Mr. Libby is excessive. Therefore, I am commuting the portion of Mr. Libby’s sentence that required him to spend thirty months in prison. My decision to commute his prison sentence leaves in place a harsh punishment for Mr. Libby. The reputation he gained through his years of public service and professional work in the legal community is forever damaged. His wife and young children have also suffered immensely. He will remain on probation. The significant fines imposed by the judge will remain in effect. The consequences of his felony conviction on his former life as a lawyer, public servant, and private citizen will be long-lasting."

Wow! Probation and fines! That is harsh. But President Bush has always been a bad-ass when it comes to getting tough on crime. For example, he was very harsh when he was the Governor of Texas; he executed 141 people during his time in office all the while protecting the sanctity of life too.

How much longer will this jackass be President? (I know until 2008, but can’t he just leave early and apology for being so bad?)

Not even a week......

2007-06-28T20:10:00.001-04:00

Less than one week into my LA experience, I got my first parking ticket. Who would have thought that it would take more than 21 minutes to walk around the corner, go into the bank, and deposit some checks? I certainly didn't. Maybe I should have paid the $1.50 per 15 minutes in the garage as opposed to the .15 in the meter. Damn. It isn't even a good story. US Bank just sucked monkey ass like Ivan Rodriquez did today.

Getting down to Business

2007-06-25T18:29:00.000-04:00

I bought a bed yesterday. I only had to sleep on the floor for one night. I could have slept on the couch, but whatever.

I finally got around to putting up the pictures from my trip on Picasa. I didn't edit them out, so there are some pictures of the same things. If you are bored and want to take a look, go here:

http://picasaweb.google.com/cooleyjo

I hope everyone is enjoying themselves. I am batting 1.000 on gorgeous days since I left Michigan.
I should probably start looking for a job.

Boo.

I apologize for the technical difficulties

2007-06-24T19:38:00.000-04:00

There was a big error in my Picasa and all of the pictures that I have put in previous posts have been erased from the blog. Although I am trying to restore some of them, it is a long and tedious process that I am not so sure I can follow through on. If there is anything anyone is missing seeing, let me know. I will post them in a web album and you can view them for eternity.

Don't worry Jacob, this little glitch is not making me switch from Google to the dark side.

The Trip.... per Co-pilot.

2007-06-23T22:54:00.001-04:00

At last we have made it to California. Temptation was resisted, meaning Las Vegas was not visited. It is probably a good thing, since the Pilot is unemployed. I hear that Vegas is not a good place for the unemployed. Plus, we didn't want to get everything stolen out of our vehicle.

This is a recap of the trip, narrated by me of course.

I wanted to drive, but naturally Jon didn't let me. He can be a real dick.

So, I took my seat next to him, as his trust co-pilot.

Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska were especially boring. So, I will pretend those didn't happen.

I see some mountains!!!!!

I wanted to go and party with Jon and Matt in Boulder, but he made me stay at home and rest up. I guess he was planning on letting me drive if he was too tired. Again, I think it was just because he can be a real dick!

He got up early though and went to Rocky Mountain National Park. It was gorgeous!

Oh my goodness, I haven't seen snow in June before. Weird.

Then I saw the Continental Divide. Apparently my pee will run off in different directions depending on the angle I use.

That was an exhilarating day. Off to Utah. We went to Moab, to see Arches National Park. There is an awesome microbrewery there aptly named the Moab Brewery. They even let a monkey drink a Hefeweizen!
Here I am at Arches.

In addition to cool rocks, they have some cool trees too.

Holy Shit it is hot! It got up to 104 today!

Jon caught me pooping. The thing is, it was so hot, I think I passed out.

Well, apparently that was the end of the trip for me. I was 100+ degrees again the next two days at Zion. Maybe Jon was mad about me pooping on the vegetation. Maybe he was actually concerned about my safety due to the heat. I think, once again that he is a dick and forgot to take pictures of me at Zion. What an ass!

Return of the Mack

2007-06-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

DJ's birthday party was super fun. There could possibly be a postdated blog to cover it. I have obtained pictures of the much talked about Mack of Monroe. I believe that AZ made mention of him, and I am certain that Morgan put it in his observations. I have obtained photographic evidence of referred to douchiness.

Without further adieu, here is the Mack himself.....

The most uninteresting blog ever

2007-06-21T22:24:00.000-04:00

What is wrong with this picture?

After 7 very refreshing Hefeweizens at the Moab Brewery, and a delectable dinner, I walked outside to a very sunny and balmy 96 degrees. That is down from the 104 that it was earlier.
I ask myself, "Why do you need to drink 7 pints of beer by yourself"? Myself replies, "They were on special, delicious, and the hotel is right next door". I answer, "makes perfect sense".

Hope you all had a good summer solstice. Hopefully tomorrow is only 103, so I can enjoy the great outdoors without sweating through three shirts.

The answer to the original question, absolutely nothing.

No TV and No Beer make Andy Something, Something...

2007-06-20T09:41:00.000-04:00

I’m not much of a natural dancer, but I’ve got a friend who’s a natural dancer. You could call her a jumping bean. She’s got ants in her pants and she’s gonna dance.

So JC is now gonna represent a Western front in the Blog Alliance. Kinda like when this here blog began in March of 2006. Everything comes full circle I guess.

I don’t know what that means.

The New York Times recently had an article discussing the town of Porter, New York. This small farming town in Northern New York tried to expand their liquor license for a restaurant, but in doing so accidentally banned the sale of alcohol throughout the entire town. For some stupid bureaucratic reason, in order to expand the sale of liquor there, there must be five questions of 300 words asking residents how they feel about selling alcohol in the town. Apparently the wording was so confusing, the residents voted no to all five questions and now the town faces losing the ability to sell alcohol anywhere within the 37 square miles of the town. One general store in Porter relies on alcohol for 78% of its revenue. I could not imagine living in a town without alcohol or having to vote to expand the license to sell it. That’s one of the great things about Wyandotte, Mi (among many). I enjoy any town where the bar-to-church ratio is roughly two-to-one, 69 bars to 34 churches. Maybe the residents of Porter can come visit Wyandotte. There is an art fair here from July 11-14.

Wow that paragraph had many twists and turns. What I was trying to say is I like beer.

Speaking of July 14, remember the Berkley Front; Dave Carducci and the Wednesdees! Doors will open at nine and it is a very fun place to see a show. Great atmosphere for good rock ‘n’ roll. Also, mark on your calendars Dave’s other shows: June 30th, Café Classics, Monroe, Mi 7PM (get there early); July 3rd, the Modern Exchange, Southgate, Mi 8PM, $7; July 5th, the Downtown Monroe Car Show, Monroe, Mi 8PM; and July 12th, Frankie’s Inner City, Toledo, Oh, 8PM, $5. And the Wednesdees have a show July 7th, the Old Miami, Detroit, Mi 8PM.

Again that paragraph was very busy. For a good summary go to www.davecarducci.com and http://myspace.com/thewednesdees.

I officially start work next Monday. Yeah, I know it’s just orientation, but I get paid and just filled out my paperwork for all my health insurance. So lay-off me. I’m excited about it, but nervous about the hours. Anyhoo…enough about me.

When Lil’ Bush debuted on Comedy Central last week I was very excited. After watching it I was amazed. Not so much because it was really good, but just because it was very, very, very, very mean. Almost too mean. And I can’t stand Dubya. I’ll watch it again tonight, because I like seeing Dick Cheney bite the head off of birds and drink their blood (that’s probably something he does in real life), but damn is this show downright mean.

Michael Bloomberg, the Mayor of New York, cut and run from the Republican Party yesterday. He was originally a Democrat (interestingly because he has close to 13 billion dollars), but changed political affiliations in order to become the Mayor of New York. What a flip-flopper. He’s a very interesting man, and I actually agree with many of his politics. There was a nice article in Time recently about Bloomberg. You all should check it out if you get a spare moment.

Terry Hoeppner, the former head coach of the Indiana University football team, passed away yesterday morning after battling brain cancer. He was 59 years old.

Farewell Lansing

2007-06-19T22:51:00.000-04:00

As of 2:01pm, I bid Lansing Michigan adieu.

Theblogalliance goes amputee

2007-06-16T10:36:00.000-04:00

The drummer from Def Leopard's only got one arm.

Theblogalliance is so over pizza

2007-06-16T03:53:00.001-04:00

Theblogalliance goes to Winterfest

2007-06-16T01:25:00.000-04:00

Hold on little girl
Show me what he's done to you
Stand up little girl
A broken heart can't be that bad
When it's through, it's through
Fate will twist the both of you
So come on baby come on over
Let me be the one to show you

I'm the one who wants to be with you
Deep inside I hope you feel it too
Waited on a line of greens and blues
Just to be the next to be with you

Build up your confidence
So you can be on top for once
wake up who cares about
Little boys that talk too much
I've seen it all go down
Your game of love was all rained out
So come on baby, come on over
Let me be the one to hold you

I'm the one who wants to be with you
Deep inside I hope you feel it too
Waited on a line of greens and blues
Just to be the next to be with you

Why be alone when we can be together baby
You can make my life worthwhile
And I can make you start to smile

When it's through, it's through
Fate will twist the both of you
So come on baby come on over
Let me be the one to show you

Theblogalliance gets people pregnant

2007-06-16T00:24:00.000-04:00

Ah, push it
Ah, push it

Oooh, baby, baby
Baby, baby
Oooh, baby, baby
Baby, baby

Get up on this!

Ow! Baby!
Salt and Pepa's here!

[Now wait a minute, y'all
This dance ain't for everybody
Only the sexy people
So all you fly mothers, get on out there and dance
Dance, I said!]

Salt and Pepa's here, and we're in effect
Want you to push it, babe
Coolin' by day then at night working up a sweat
C'mon girls, let's go show the guys that we know
How to become number one in a hot party show
Now push it

Ah, push it - push it good
Ah, push it - push it real good
Ah, push it - push it good
Ah, push it - p-push it real good

Hey! Ow!
Push it good!

Oooh, baby, baby
Baby, baby
Oooh, baby, baby
Baby, baby

Yo, yo, yo, yo, baby-pop
Yeah, you come here, gimme a kiss
Better make it fast or else I'm gonna get pissed
Can't you hear the music's pumpin' hard like I wish you would?
Now push it

Push it good
P-push it real good

Ah, push it
Get up on this!

Boy, you really got me going
You got me so I don't know what I'm doing

Ah, push it

Theblogalliance gets sexy

2007-06-16T00:18:00.000-04:00

To The Tick Tock Ya Don't Stop, To The Tick Top Ya Don't Stop

Come inside take off your coat,
ill make you feel at home
Now lets pour a glass of wine
coz now we're all alone,
I've been waiting all nite
so just let me hold you close to me
Coz i've been dieing for you girl
to make love to me

Girl you make me feel real good,
We can do it till we both wake up
Girl you know im hooked on you
and this is what i'll do,

(I wanna love you down)
I wanna sex you up,
All nite, (you make me feel good)
I want (to rub you down)
I wanna sex you up,
Let me take off all your clothes.
Disconnect the phone so nobody knows.
Let me light a candle,
So that we can make it better.
Makin' love until we drown.
Girl, you know it feels real good.
We can do it 'til we both wake up.
Girlyou know I'm hooked on you.
And this is what I'll do.

Make sweet lovin' all night long...
(I wanna sex you up)
Feels so right it can't be wrong...
Don't be shy girl rescue me...
(i wanna sex you up)
Open up your heart and I'll set you free...

Theblogalliance goes religious

2007-06-16T00:01:00.003-04:00

Life is a mystery, everyone must stand alone
I hear you call my name
And it feels like home

When you call my name its like a little prayer
Im down on my knees, I wanna take you there
In the midnight hour I can feel your power
Just like a prayer you know Ill take you there

I hear your voice, its like an angel sighing
I have no choice, I hear your voice
Feels like flying
I close my eyes, oh God I think Im falling
Out of the sky, I close my eyes
Heaven help me

When you call my name its like a little prayer
Im down on my knees, I wanna take you there
In the midnight hour I can feel your power
Just like a prayer you know Ill take you there

Like a child you whisper softly to me
Youre in control just like a child
Now Im dancing
Its like a dream, no end and no beginning
Youre here with me, its like a dream
Let the choir sing

When you call my name its like a little prayer
Im down on my knees, I wanna take you there
In the midnight hour I can feel your power
Just like a prayer you know Ill take you there

Just like a prayer, your voice can take me there
Just like a muse to me, you are a mystery
Just like a dream, you are not what you seem
Just like a prayer, no choice your voice can take me there

Just like a prayer, Ill take you there
Its like a dream to me

Bullocks to BLS!

2007-06-15T10:48:00.000-04:00

Bullocks! Bullocks! I proclaim.

I just finished my ACLS training; Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. I like that stuff. I had my “mega-code” simulation in which a fake code blue was performed. My fake patient was a 57 y/o female who was diaphoretic, weak, pre-syncopal with chest pain and shortness of breath. Her initial rhythm on the monitor was a sinus bradycardia.

“Okay, check the ABC’s,” I explained to my team. “Give her supplemental oxygen at two liters nasal canula and start an IV please. Draw up 0.5 mg atropine and place the pacer pads and get ready for pacing.”

She remained in symptomatic sinus brady after the atropine, so I ordered to start pacing. The pacer captured, but shortly after this she went into ventricular fibrillation.

“Okay, start CPR and hook-up the defibrillator please. Charge to 200 Joules please. Everyone clear? I’m clear. Clear. Deliver the shock please. Still in v fib. Resume CPR for 5 cycles please.” After 5 cycles my “patient” was still in v fib.

“Okay, shock at 200 please. Could you please draw up 1 mg epi? We’ll give it after this shock. Clear. Shock. Still v fib, could you push the epi please and then continue that every three to five minutes with 1 mg epi. Also could you please draw up 300 amio? Thanks.”

And thus the code continued until my “patient went into pulseless electrical activity (PEA). “Now we’re in PEA. Please resume CPR. Push 1 mg epi. Draw 1 mg atropine.” After 5 cycles of CPR (30 and 2 are the new guidelines) the “patient” was still in PEA. “Push the atropine and draw another 1 mg. Keep with the epi every 3 to 5 minutes, 1 mg please.”

Still in PEA. “Second dose of atropine given? Okay draw one more please. 1 mg. We’ll give it after this next cycle of CPR. Epi still going in? Good.” After the next cycle, the “patient” developed a weak pulse and another sinus brady.

And the code was over. She lived! The next step would be to consult electrophysiology, ship her to the cardiac ICU and have a pacemaker placed.

So that was my Friday morning. That and a written test covering essentially the same stuff. Now why the hell do I have to take the Basic Life Support (BLS) class on Monday? I obviously know CPR and how to run a code. I know the guidelines for child CPR (15 and 2 now) and everyone can do the Heimlich maneuver. I don’t want to spend four hours on Monday doing this crap, and without the fun of giving drugs and running a code. BLS….argh….

I don’t know what irks me more: having to pay the $50 for the BLS training (ACLS was $230) or giving up four hours on my last week of vacation.

Bullocks! Absolute bullocks!

Theblogalliance at the Zoo (one half)

2007-06-13T08:17:00.000-04:00

This blog was going to be called the Cutest Blog Ever, because baby monkeys are cute, but I refrained.

Yesterday, Theblogalliance (one half) went to the Zoo. My second day of unemployment took me to M-Town to see my parents, sister, and her husband. The Zoo was invaded by the best blog to hit the universe.

Also, I tried to take pictures with my cellular telephone to send to Theblogalliance's long lost friend in Seattle. As you can tell by the quality of the pictures with a regular camera, I was struggling.

I told you that baby monkeys are cute!

This family of monkeys are pretty cool too.

I couldn't tell if this one was sleeping or dead. (If you can't tell, the monkeys are my favorite)

I don't think penguins like 86 degrees.

These guys remind me of the old school Toledo Zoo commercials. Five minutes just five minutes.

Now for the animals in my weight class:

Rhinosaurus

Elephante (with an accent over the final e).

And the spineless:

Attack of the killer jellyfish.

Unfortunately, the Hippopotamusauruses were in seclusion. I could not take a picture of the animal that I most closely resemble.

Here is a reenactment of my birth: (gross)

Theblogalliance (one half) had a fun day at the zoo.

A No No is Way Better than the NBA Finals

2007-06-13T01:21:00.000-04:00

Leave your blues at the door, come on in for more. Leave your blues…at the door. (If you’re singing along, the last line should be in falsetto).

It was like holding my breath for nine innings. Almost two hours. I was furious when FSH Detroit showed Verlander had a no-hitter through eight. No jinx though. Then I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face as he tossed a 102 mile per hour fastball. Go Tigers! What a game. Awesome.

Come on Oakwood Hospital. Your ad campaigns are ridiculously stupid. Honestly who thought of that slogan? We specialize. In you. What? First of all in the commercials the voice over reads the slogan like, “We specialize…in you.” Secondly, we specialize and in you are incomplete sentences. Why would I go to a hospital that cannot even specialize in simple grammatical rules?

I think New Radio was the first Office. I still like to watch News Radio when I can, but I get a little sad seeing Phil Hartman.

My legs are failing me. I have a hamstring pull or adductor strain in my left leg (I have localized it to biceps femoris or adductor magnus) and my right knee has point tenderness over the lateral collateral ligament and in the joint space. Not good, but I keep running. Not smart. Whatever.

I did not watch a minute of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and I have not (and will not) watch a minute of the NBA Finals. Cleveland should not be there.

College football isn’t really around the corner, but it certainly is down the street right now. According to rivals.com, Michigan State has the fifth toughest schedule in the nation this year. No kidding. I say it’s the toughest. They play back-to-back games on the road in South Bend and then Madison and close out the season playing at the Ohio State, at Iowa, Michigan, at Purdue and Penn State. And looking two years ahead…if State can sign two former Spartan great’s sons, Lorenzo White Jr. and Mark Ingram Jr., they will repeat their father’s legacies and get the Spartans back to Pasadena and be Rose Bowl Champs.

Dave Carducci’s debut album, Trouble and Debris, left my car for a week while Dustin borrowed it, but now it’s back. I debate myself whether Leave Your Blues or Deepest Secrets is my favorite song. My dad likes Trouble and Debris. What’s your favorite song? Just to remind everyone, June 30th Dave will be at Café Classics with Jacob Longton and Todd Kundrat. Then on July 5th he’ll play at the Downtown Monroe Car Show and close out is returning home tour with a show at the Berkley Front on July 14th.

The Simpsons The Movie will be out July 27th. That may seem a ways away, but if it flies by like June has, it’ll be here tomorrow. Not really, but you get what I mean. I have been watching a lot of Simpsons lately. Mostly seasons seven and eight. Great stuff.

Apple.com has changed its layout. I want an IPhone.

THE Party Blog (Now Functioning Properly)

2007-06-11T10:52:00.000-04:00

First of all, thank you Jacob for hosting the Scott Saenz / It's a beautiful afternoon to drink party this weekend.

Second of all, I would like to publicly apologize to Jacob's tenants. Although I expected that they could handle the noise and lewd rambunctiousness that was sure to ensue...... (If you happen to be a lady, please cover your eyes momentarily) .....given their artificial phallic implement party, I was not aware that some of them had to work at 7 am. If they somehow find this blog, I am officially sorry for my part.

Third of all, I would like to apologize to Jacob and his Badminton set. PVC is no match for me. A replacement will be on its way. Either that, or a garage, Umm....

Picture time! That means story time.

Twas a beautiful day for Badminton.

.....and for cheating at Badminton.

We even let Scott play.

You could also play some horseshoes if you so desired.

Kohler had his eye on the cock. (Shuttlecock, that is).

Like I said, PVC is no match for me.

Inside other things were going down. Our little boy is all growns up he is.

Discussing plans for reimbursement.

The master chef at work.

The dead animals of his labor.

There were vegetables as well.

I know you are not from these parts, but this is not the time for electronic communications.

Back inside, DJ is preparing for an epic battle.

His opponent is also prepared.

And it begins

Even in these times of turmoil, Scott is diligently communicating electronically.

There is obvious dismay.

The mandatory peace accord (I am not buying it).

After all, it was social hour.

Brian is curious why the night is slowing down.

I was too, so I put to use the homemade taser.

That puts a smile on Scott's face. Where is your phone Scott? Confiscated, that's where.

Andy is the cheese catching champion!

Emily was still upset over the DJ incident, so I tried "dancing" with her.

That didn't work, so we brought out nipples.

Emily proved hard to cheer up. I needed to slip into something more comfortable.

DJ is in lighter spirits.

With Emily not fully cheered up, I sang her a song.

It worked!

We all lived happily ever after.

Classified Ad

2007-06-11T08:31:00.000-04:00

Would anyone like to try to go to the Tigers game on Thursday afternoon with me? It is supposed to be a beautiful day. I would like to exploit my unemployment.

Hands

2007-06-10T23:49:00.001-04:00

My count is four.

Four hands Darth Vader/Anakin Skywalker took off with his Lightsaber.

He took off both of Count Dooku’s right before he beheaded him. He knocked off Mace Windu’s right hand, and then the Emperor killed him while yelling, “Unlimited power!” Finally, Vader took Luke’s right hand right before telling him he is his father.

It must be Vader’s Lightsaber signature move; flip his opponents Lightsaber away and then a swift upper cut to the hand, leaving his foe lightsaberless and defenseless.

The only person I remember seeing Vader kill without doing that was Obi Wan and Ben didn’t even put up that big of a fight.

Well-done Vader. Too bad you couldn’t upper cut the rebellion like that, because maybe the Sith would still rule the galaxy today. Nonetheless, hooray for the rebellion. Tyranny is no good.

Apathy, Extreme Apathy...No More!

2007-06-08T14:53:00.000-04:00

Apathy. Apathy my dear friends has kept me from the Blog Alliance. I do not hate the Blog Alliance. As a matter of fact, I love the all, the all of you.

I’m not busy. Well that’s not entirely true, I have been coordinating various things like my move and scheduling my ACLS/BLS training. But I’m not working.

Apathy.

I wanted to write about how the NHL needs to make a statement with Chris Pronger. I read he was suspended for only one game in the Stanley Cup Finals for a brutal hit on a Senator's forward. That’s why the NHL is awful. Goons like Pronger, who should have been suspended more for his hit in the Western Conference Finals on Thomas Holmstrom, get away with their thuggish ways. But I didn’t write a blog.

Apathy.

Then I thought about writing how poor the NBA is. The Pistons played poorly in the Cavs series. Their fourth quarters were dismal and pathetic. However, David Stern and the NBA made it clear they wanted LeBron in the Finals. Drew Gooden punched Rasheed Wallace and got only one technical. Then repeatedly asked Joe Crawford, “How the fuck was that a technical?” Antonio McDyess gave a hard foul to Anderson “I flop because I suck at basketball” Varejao and was ejected with a “flagrant two.” Absolute bullshit. But too much time passed and I didn’t put it in a post.

Apathy.

Last Saturday as I ran down Fort St. I saw several war protestors. Earlier that morning the New York Times ran an article about the 23 US soldier deaths through the first few days of June. Yesterday USA Today reported the death toll in Iraq had climbed over 3,500. I was going to write about this and the unacceptable war this ridiculously incompetent administration conjured up. But it’s almost a week old from my original thoughts. Again no post.

Apathy.

The New York Times had an interesting article about strokes. It was a very long feature and covered many interesting topics. I had ideas for another stroke post. Also, the diabetes drug, Avandia, has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and the FDA is calling for strict warnings. Could have written about this. Didn’t.

Apathy.

To complicate my laziness, my Internet has been cutting in and out lately. Very frustrating. Alas, no more apathy! When my thoughts arrive like butterflies I will post them in a timely manner. My apologies for my apathy.

I said apathy too much, but I was way too lethargic to look up or think of any synonyms (get it?). See most of ya’ll Saturday. Have a wonderful Friday evening.

(The pictures in this blog are from the last party I went to at Jacob's with Lil Saenz in attendance).

I lied to myself

2007-06-08T07:27:00.000-04:00

Before bed yesterday, I decided that I was wrong. I do not want to be an elephante, a rhino-saurus, or a hippopotomusaurus. So, I naturally decided to wake up and go to the gym at 4:15am. My membership had expired, and they said they would charge me $42 for the rest of my month or less in Michigan. I got there this morning and much to my surprise, the price had went up to $50! I told them to fuck off and gave them my Visa. I guess money will have to be my biggest motivator now, rather than my health.

So, as of right now, I have paid $50 per visit to a run down, dirty, and all around shitty gym.

(This comment is not lady appropriate - so if you happen to be a lady, please skip ahead to the next paragraph). I want to know where Manu Ginobli learned how to flop that well. He must be the NBA's all time best flopper. I would also like to know how he gets all of the referees to believe him. It is probably because his real name is Manu GinoBJli.

My work folk bosses have not communicated with me in any way since Monday morning. They told me that they would let me know how they wanted to proceed regarding me working my last two weeks or possibly more. I guess I am in the drivers seat at this point. I am ready to go soon, and right now, work is just extra money, prolonging my unemployment in California.

I hope to see everyone at Jacob's this weekend. Saturday looks like it will be the perfect day.

I wonder why AZ has decided he hates Theblogalliance.

EDIT: I just got out of a meeting today with the two principals of my office. It turns out that today is potentially my last day of work. They want me to finish one last project, but they have shuffled other's schedules around so more clients don't wonder where I am. I may have to work a few hours to finish up this weekend. Regardless, Monday morning I have an exit interview and am turning in my keys and laptop. Weird that it is all happening so fast.

Also, I am not pissed that I payed $50 this morning for a gym membership. Rats to me!!

This is not my time slot.

2007-06-06T20:59:00.000-04:00

I am sitting in a hotel in Cadillac. I am so freaking bored. Hot interns at the places that you are auditing kinda make me smile, just a little.

I went to the gym the other day. They turned me away. Apparently my membership expired. They wanted me to pay $42 for a month at the gym after I paid $99 for a semester (which is 4.5 months). I refused to, since that is freaking retarded. I think that the gym employees should have a moral obligation to let me work out there, given my medical condition called morbid obesity. So, I guess I will grow fatter, but none of you will notice. It is like if an elephant or rhino-saurus gains some weight at the zoo……they are so large that you couldn’t possibly notice. I know, I think that sucks too.

I successfully gave notice at my job. It was very scary at first, but it got better. I made sure I did it first thing in the morning on Monday, as soon as I got there. When my boss told me that I can’t go and I really shouldn’t and then started showing some anger, I just wondered…….maybe I would stay if he could place an ocean 20 minutes from my house. Maybe I would stay if he could get palm trees to grow in my yard. Maybe I would stay if he could put mountains nearby. I doubt he can, so I gave up on him. I think I am officially an outcast. I told them that I could give the standard two week notice, but would be willing to work through the end of the month if they wanted me to. I thought that was generous. They said they would let me know how they wanted to proceed. No one from management has spoken to me since. I guess it is up to me.

Gary Sheffield just hit a home run. I think his comments and views about Latin ball players is warranted.

I miss Dallas. I think I am going to take a vacation there soon. I could use a little Blue Goose, Hoffbrau, and Two Rows. Shiner Bock is good too. Sun and warmth are also good. Whatever.

Since AZ didn’t write anything in his normal Wednesday slot, you can blame him for this pointless drivel.

P.S. Scott Saenz is coming to town. Wanna start a train? (You son of a bitch!)

I regretfully Inform you....

2007-06-04T05:02:00.000-04:00

I can't sleep well. Maybe it is because it has been a long weekend. Maybe it is because I have to do one of the most dreaded things in all of professional life........giving notice that I am quitting my job.

I tried to go in a few times this weekend to break the news in a more relaxed atmosphere. Usually one of my two bosses are there for a while on the weekends. This weekend, however, they were not.

I have read that it is best to do this right away so that it is not on your mind, and everyone can move on more quickly. Unfortunately, by the time the dust settled, and I made up my mind of where my life is officially taking me, I had to wait the weekend out.

I hate the feeling of letting people down, as I feel I am an integral part of a professional team. I have read that I should feel empowered because at the moment that you give your notice, you are no longer an employee under your boss. You should be viewed as a tool to help a transition period in the company. Although I know I am replaceable, and that the company will move on without me, it is still not a very pleasurable thing to do. I am trying to do it the right way and offer my cervixes (services) for a month, rather than the customary two weeks. I half hope that they tell me to leave today and call it good. We will see.

I am anxious to get it over with and regardless if I get paid for one, two, three, or four more weeks, I am excited for the upcoming adventure that is my life.

Wish me luck!

P.S. My bruise from the slippery slipper incident has still not disintegrated. I think it is permanent.

Crazy Friday

2007-06-01T22:11:00.000-04:00

Maybe I had too much fun with JC and Rob yesterday.

Or maybe it was the phone call from Higgins at 7.05 in the AM waking me up from a comfortable sleep.

Or maybe it was helping Dustin move today.

Whatever the reason, I'm exhausted. Thank God HBO has a Star Wars marathon on, Episodes 1-6. I don't know if I'll make it to Empire, but I should really try to reward myself after sitting through The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones.

I want ice cream.

A Premonition

2007-06-01T09:53:00.000-04:00

AZ's last blog was a premonition. The Pistons game made everyone mad.

This is not so much a blog as an advice column today.

If you ever receive a drunken phone call that wakes you up at 12:30 when you probably have important things to do in the morning, please proceed with caution. When the voices on the other end of the line are laughing and telling you that you have to get out of bed and look at the blog immediately, please gather yourself and use your judgment. Or, simply hang up. After all, in the morning, we are all going to pretend that what you saw, or think you saw was not real and never existed.

That is all.

The Pistons Game Made Me Mad

2007-05-30T10:33:00.000-04:00

Drunk teenagers, let’s start a fight, out getting wasted on a Saturday night.

Well Chris pointed out that I was wrong about Dan Crawford. It was Joey Crawford who was suspended for the NBA Playoffs because of his altercation with Tim Duncan. My apologies. However, it doesn’t change how poorly Game 4 of the Eastern Conference was officiated. Drew Gooden tried to take Rasheed Wallace’s head off and gets one technical. Then asked the official (you could read his lips), “How the fuck was that a technical?” He repeated it. Rasheed threw his headband and was Teed up. Daniel Gibson, a rookie out of Texas, shot 12 free throws in Game 4. In Games 1 and 2 he scored a total of nine points. Come on NBA. That was ridiculous.

I was also informed by another friend, DJ, about Joel Plaskett’s new CD, Ashtray Rock yesterday. I’m listening to it now. It has a Joel Plaskett feel (obviously), but I’m not sure it is as good as La De Da and certainly it is now Truthfully, Truthfully. I may change my mind, but right now I give it 3/5 stars…if I awarded stars and reviewed albums…I don’t though. Or maybe now I do.

Keeping with the music theme. Mark this date now: July 14th. The Wednesdees and Dave Carducci at the Berkley Front in Berkley, Mi.

Michigan State will have new football uniforms to start the 2007 campaign. The home uniforms will be green on white with a new font Michigan State across the front. There will be no names on the back of the jerseys and the number one will still not be used. The away uniforms are the classy white on white. The helmets will essentially be the same, but now with a broad white stripe down the middle and the Spartan head on each side. So the green on green and white on green are gone. Good. Get back to the classic look. I hated the white on green away uniforms. The green on green were fun, but the classic Spartan look is a lot better. Dantonio is already making good decisions.

I’m still upset about that Pistons game last night. Complete bologna.

Fred Thompson, a former Senator from Tennessee and the District Attorney on Law and Order, is thinking of running for President. Huh…well I’m just happy he’ll be off of Law and Order. Explain to me how a man with a Southern accent would ever, ever be elected District Attorney in Manhattan. It would not happen. Dick Wolfe and the writers decided to give Law and Order a hard conservative attitude after Steven Hill’s (Adam Schiff) well-liked and liberal character left. The show kinda got stupid after that too.

I have sounded rather angry in this post. I’m sorry. I’m not that angry. Except for that damn Pistons game.

Anyone else have anything interesting to add? Sorry I really don’t. My cat, Ozkar, has crystals in his bladder and that’s why he has been urinating out of his litter box at times. The Vet is very expensive. Anyhoo…time to make the donuts.

Happy Memorial Day Weekend

2007-05-28T18:26:00.000-04:00

Hopefully everyone had an enjoyable weekend. I find myself being very lazy. It is not a good habit to be in. I have been under a considerable amount of stress lately, but it is finally subsiding. I am starting to feel like a normal human being again.

There was another Wednesdees show to report on. It was at the Painted Lady Lounge. The place and the sound guys were no bueno. Although their Happy Hour was intriguing. It lasted from 5 until 10 and included $2 Miller Lites. Jacob did his best with his broken G-String and the show went on.

The Wednesdees ended up prevailing with the largest crowd, that unfortunately for the jam band that followed disbursed shortly after the show. I would have stayed to pay my respects for the other bands, but I was fearing after only a few minutes that I would certainly go deaf. After careful consideration by Emily and Jacob, action had to be taken.

I almost feel bad about walking right by them, and out the front door. Thankfully, Emily agreed with the maneuver. I look forward to more Wednesdees shows in the future.

There are some pictures. Although they were not represented here, Morgan, DJ, Andy, and Jackie were there in full force. I enjoyed hanging out with everyone!

Have an excellent week. It is a short week, so that makes me smile. Some things on the horizon from Theblogalliance are a think piece on friends' bands and the lives on the in-laws. It was inspired by a girl who we will simply call "K". She is the wife of Chris. It is full of old jokes that should have been published long ago. (again I am lazy).

I am sure there will also be some updates on Lindsay Lohan.

Go Pistons. Bye.

The hiatus is over...........

2007-05-25T07:19:00.000-04:00

.........just in time for another Wednesdees show.

Check out the Wednesdees in live action tomorrow (Saturday) evening. They are playing at The Painted Lady. It is located here: 2930 Jacob St Hamtramck, MI 48212

The proof is in the pudding. You should be there!

Anaheim, more like Anacrime

2007-05-23T10:14:00.000-04:00

Big me to talk about it, I could stand to prove, If we can get around it I know that it’s true.

(I know it's a childish headline. It's supposed to be.)

Thank you for the enthusiasm Herr Ott. But I guess it wasn’t in the cards for the Wings to win that series. It's still a crime, the Ducks won though. Anaheim got all the bounces. A crazy game five bounce off of Lidstrom’s stick and the first goal in game six going off a player’s skate. The Wings made a game of it late in game six and had the puck bounce in front of the goal three times, but no luck. It’s sad because Detroit should have won the series in five after completely dominating games four and five. I guess that’s the way the NHL wants it. The inferior team moves to the Stanley Cup Finals. It is a little bit of sour grapes on my part, sure, but once again I’m entirely uninterested in these finals. I won’t watch one minute. The Ducks do not deserve to be there.

How weird was it that both the Tigers and Red Wings made late game comebacks against the Anaheim Angles and Ducks, only to eventually lose?

That’s not weird, that just stinks.

Lost season finale is tonight. Two hours. Should be intense. And good.

The same physicians who demonstrated the increased risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) in patients on the Merck drug, Vioxx, have now shown similar risks with a diabetic medication, Avandia. A meta-analysis of Avandia studies showed an increased trend of MI’s in those patients on the medication versus those not taking the medication. What confuses me is diabetes is considered a coronary artery disease (CAD) risk equivalent, meaning an individual with diabetes is treated the same way as someone with CAD. Thus, an individual with diabetes is already at a very elevated risk for a MI. Does Avandia increase the risk beyond that of anyone with diabetes? I’m assuming it must, because of the reaction by The New England Journal of Medicine. However, this issue was not explicitly discussed.

Congratulations to Chris! He is a lawyer. Awesome.

The Wednesdees have another show lined up. It’s this Saturday May 26 in Hamtramck at the Painted Lady. The show starts at 9.00 PM and is located at 2390 Jacob
Hamtramck, MI 48212. Mapquest it and go. I’m excited because I missed the last show and this show I’ll get to use my new camera too. I propose a get together before the show and then another after. What do ya’ll think?

Trying to find a new place to live is so hard. I know JC is going through it too, but he is looking places much farther away than me. It’s a tiring process.

Spring is such a great time of year. I need to take full advantage of it.

Holy Foo Fighters! My ITunes has played six songs this morning by the Dave Grohl band. Good stuff.

Have a great Memorial Day weekend everyone! Hopefully I’ll see most of you Saturday.

Herr Ott Magic, Wings Win!

2007-05-22T09:25:00.000-04:00

Gehen rote Flugel!

Herr Ott, wherever you are, the Detroit Red Wings need you.

Anyone who had German at Monroe High School remembers Herr Ott writing this in the upper right hand corner of the board every playoff season.

The Wings won two Stanley Cups, thanks to Herr Ott's enthusiasm auf Deutsch. The Red Wings need that same energy tonight.

What has become so dissatisfying over the last several years with the NHL is it is the only sport in which the better team can lose a playoff series. I don’t know why or how it happens, but it does and it is just sickening to watch. Anaheim did not deserve to win games four or five, yet now are up 3-2 in the best of seven series. No other sport allows for this to happen. This is why the NHL has lost its fan base. Not because of the strike.

With that said, Detroit wins 3-1 and forces game seven in Detroit on Thursday.

Gehen rote Flugel!

You Better Cenote Mention that Again...

2007-05-16T18:36:00.000-04:00

Love me two times girl, one for tomorrow, one just for today.

I’m writing this on a plane. I may look important, but only if they knew the drivel I was writing...

My apologies for my absence from the Blog Alliance. Vegas and Mexico were a lot of fun, but I’m glad to be on my way back. If things go according to plan, I’ll see many of you tonight at the Wednesdee’s concert.

The Wednesdees on Wednesday. Makes sense.

The plane is empty and guess what…no one sat next to me. I’m actually cool with that.

I am rather uninformed on the current news events, but I did see the Pistons could not close out the Bulls at home. Could this be the first year an eight seed beats a one and a team comes back from 3-0 to win a series? It would be interesting if it happened against the two teams David Stern dislikes the most, the Mavericks and the Pistons.

The Pistons will win game six. And the Wings will win game four. A Wings/Senators Stanley Cup Finals would be really fun. The battle for the Ambassador Bridge.

That was stupid.

Too much sports? Too bad.

According to Rolling Stone The Flaming Lips will be have a Broadway adaptation of their 2002 CD, Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots. That will be a must see for me, and JC I’m sure, who was kind enough to introduce me to that CD way back when.

I love ITunes. I spent about an hour and a half editing old pictures from the LA/San Diego/Mexico trip back in ’03. Good times. At some point I’ll get to the 500 or so Europe pictures, but that’s a task I’m just not willing to start right now.

Unfortunately I have watched season three of the Wire already, so I don’t have anything to watch after I’m done typing this. Oh well, music rules.

If anyone ever gets the chance to swim in a cenote, I highly recommend it. Cenote in Mayan means “sacred well” and was considered the connection of the inframundo with the supramundo Gods of the Mayans. A cenote is essentially an underground oasis of freshwater found in the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula. To the left is a picture of the entrance into the cenote in which I swam.

I have a lot of catching up to do when I get back. My apologies in advance if I’m slower than usual at getting back to folks. I can’t wait to see everyone.

The Eve of the Wednesdees

2007-05-15T20:32:00.000-04:00

I urge everyone to go out to Ypsi and see The Wednesdees tomorrow night. It will be a rocktaclular time.

I think my new favorite thing to do it feed dollar bills into arcade basketball games when I have been drinking too much. Things that can happen when you do this are: get some exercise, get noticed by females by your sweet stroke, overhear gentleman watching the Tigers game and exclaiming in a less than heterosexual lisp, "No way! Todd Jones is in. The only one that makes more saves than him is Dominik Hasek.......................and Jesus!" This particular gentleman was the inventor of the dramatic pause. I practically peed my pants, I was laughing so hard.

Today, I was asked by a client if I liked being an auditor. I said I did. I went on to explain that it is just like anything, it has its pros and cons and ups and downs. She told me that she thinks it would suck and would never dream of doing it. I stood there and watched her stuffing her hundred envelopes, then she began licking stamps for the required postal fee. I told her that I can totally see her point of view. At that point, I could have been crowned the king of cynicism and sarcasm. I wasn't though. What gives?

Don't forget about the Wednesdees tomorrow night. If you feel yourself starting to forget, reread this post and it will remind you.

Monday Morning

2007-05-14T09:02:00.000-04:00

It was a gorgeous weekend. I only spent about 5 hours or so working. That is a rarity for me as of late.

I learned a lot at Jacob’s house on Saturday. I learned just how homosexual the game of badminton can be. I also learned that eating potatoes is basically the same as eating bleached enriched flour. On top of all of that, I learned that orange juice can go bad. Also, it is not good for you. It is almost entirely made up of sugar. Boo. I like asparagus. Yay.

The Wednesdees are playing a show on Wednesday at the Elbow Room in Ypsilanti. You should be there or be square. At least one half of Theblogalliance will be there, with brand spanking new digital camera in hand. I think people like pictures.

Congrats Chris on your graduation. You hat looked silly. I would like Katherine to email me a picture of you in your silly hat so I can post it for all to see.

I hope AZ’s trip is going well and he has not been raped or mugged or killed yet. I also hope he took a donkey ride. That would be fun.

It was very nice to see everyone at Jacob’s on Saturday. I will see a majority of you all on Wednesday for the Wednesdees.

Happy Birthday Jacob!

2007-05-11T22:54:00.000-04:00

Happy birthday Jacob!

I know the sun has set in the east. I know it's almost the end of his birthday, but...

Happy birthday!

On a side note, could ya'll send me your addresses to zillgit1@msu.edu so I can send out some postcards. Thanks. I don't have Jacob's, Chris' zip, Morgan's, JC's, Emily's, Dave's, etc....

Don't forget the Wednesdee's on May 16 (Wednesday) at the Elbow Room in Ypsi. I don't have the address so visit their space on myspace.com. I look forward to hearing their first original, It's No Wonder.

Happy Birthday Jacob! 27, Yeah all right!

More Crap

2007-05-11T10:17:00.000-04:00

Happy Weekend Everyone!

It is a beautiful day today. The sun is shining and it is in the upper 70’s.

I am stuck inside looking out the window.

The Pistons overcame a 20 point deficit to beat the Bulls and go up 3-0 in the series.

The Tigers are in first place in the AL Central by a half game.

I shouldn’t have to work ALL weekend this weekend.

I should go see my mum.

Wildfires are crazy.

I need a vacation.

AZ is on vacation.

JC is jealous.

I am the worst blog writer in the history of blogs.

I don’t really mind.

I feel fine.

Have a Good Weekend All!

Dropping the Ball

2007-05-10T07:02:00.000-04:00

Theblogalliance has been dropping the ball. Actually, it has been I who have dropped the ball. AZ is on vacation in Las Vegas and Mexico.

I survived my hellacious overtime schedule at work. Although I get paid overtime, it is still a crazy thing to do what I did. Last week the total was 82 hours. This week, I have only worked late once. It is kinda nice.

On Tuesday, I was packing my bag and getting ready to go home. I received a phone call. It was Emily. She was in town and her friend Madelyn was here from her recent move to California. Although I had high hopes to be productive and maybe even hit up the gym, I couldn't refuse. It was an unhealthy choice, but I couldn't refuse. It was gorgeous outside. We did the patio scene, with Troppo, Harpers, and Dublin. Sandy, the epic former boss joined us. Amidst crab rangoons, boneless buffalo wings, spinach pizza, and salmon rolls, we were blissfully gluttonous. Washing it down with some Oberon, raspberry wheats, and black and tans really hit the spot.

Thanks Em and Maddie for reminding me that there is a life outside of my office> I Hope that AZ is having fun in Mexico, EZ is having fun in Orlando, and JC is having fun in East Lansing. It is pretty much summertime in the EL. That is the best time there is here.

I apologize for the terrible post today. I have to run to work!!

I Can't Explain it

2007-05-06T22:33:00.000-04:00

I thought I knew you, what did I know? You don’t look different, but you have changed. I’m looking through you, you’re not the same.

Here is a non-sports post, that happens to involve an athlete. Sorry, but that is the best thing that I can do for you today.

I have been thinking a lot this weekend. It is weird for me to admit this, but I will nonetheless. I think that it is absolutely ridiculous that Paris Hilton is going to jail for 45 days.

For all of the celebrity happenings that occur (both lawfully and no so much), why is Paris taking the fall? Sure, I don't like her, and you probably don't either. I don't want her to sit in jail though.

Rich people do bad things sometimes. Their money usually gets them out of trouble. (I don't feel the need to cite examples). Why is Miss Hilton the scapegoat for all of that. Is one judge trying to make a name for himself, and ignoring what hundreds before him have done. Way to go. I will wait in anticipation to see whether Phil Spector gets off the hook now.

In other news, Ron Artest (who is less rich, less attractive, and quite a bit more sleazy and scary than Paris) is continuing his good luck with the courts.

He has managed to stay out of jail again. For his latest domestic assault against his wife, Artest received a kiss on the cheek, rather than a slap on the wrist. He got sentenced to a 10 day work program, a $600 fine, and was ordered to counseling. All this for hitting his wife and preventing her from calling 911 for help. Additionally, his restraining order that his wife had on him has been dropped and he can see his kids again. He must be an angel. He is also being investigated on animal cruelty charges. Again, such a selfless father figure and a saint.

I think that Paris Hilton should think of herself as a hero and savior to all of the rich bastards like Artest who constantly get off the hook for committing crimes. People like Artest are apparently still untouchable while she is does his and many many others' time.

Or, I am stupid and write stupid blogs. Goodnight.

Lessons Observed

2007-05-03T22:10:00.000-04:00

My mother always told me that if I didn't have anything nice to say, I shouldn't say anything at all.
I am heeding that advice today on Theblogalliance.

Happy Graduation everyone! Have a happy weekend! Get out there and celebrate Cinco de Mayo!

Chris' Birthday!

2007-05-02T15:01:00.000-04:00

Well here’s another clue if you please, the Seether’s Louise.

Well I don’t have a whole lot to say, but what I do write may be the most important thing you read all day.

Maybe not.

Chris is next on the birthday go-round; he turns 27 today. Happy birthday Chris!

The final season of the Wire is being filmed right now. It should air sometime in early 2008. I can’t wait.

Everyone is still working hard, but it looks like JC is getting close to at least some relief. Emily is finishing her criminal law exam as I type this and only has one more exam now. Chris had a couple of take homes and another exam later this week. I’m not sure about Brooke, but I imagine she’s working hard. And I know Jacob is putting in extra hours. Well-done guys…and gals.

Damn Warriors. Oh well, wrap it up tomorrow night at home. You have to feel good if you’re a Golden State fan. The only way Dallas has won two games is with some help from the officials at home and a ridiculous 15-0 run to close out game five. Go Golden State.

It appears readership is down with TBA. I know DJ is way too cool to read it, but what can we do to be more appealing and reader friendly? Cut out this Wednesday nonsense? Have a best of comments contest? We would love to hear all of your opinions.

Speaking of DJ, I checked out the Revolving World blog he co-writes for the Monroe Evening News. Apparently Fountains of Wayne have released a new album. Fountains of Wayne’s first disc was outstanding, but they have had a steady decline since then. There have fine songs interspersed, but no album of the quality as their first.

My legs are really sore and I hate shaving.

This past Saturday I saw Mike Birbiglia for the second time. If you haven’t heard any of his stand-up check him out at his web site, http://www.birbigs.com/.

JC B Day

2007-04-30T12:13:00.000-04:00

It's a special day for The Blog Alliance. The founding member, JC, turns 27 years old today.

Have a great day Jon! We all know you have been working your arse off lately, but take some time to try and enjoy a little bit of this beautiful spring day.

Happy Birthday!

Fuc&*ng Ridiculousness!

2007-04-27T22:45:00.000-04:00

A straight-A high school senior in Illinois was arrested for an essay that he wrote. The assignment was to, "write whatever comes to your mind. Do not judge or censor what you are writing". The essay described a joke about a dream, filled with sex, drugs, booze, and violence. Sounds like 90 percent of primetime TV in America. He is being charged with disorderly conduct and faces prison time of 30 days.

In the wake of the Virginia Tech tragedy, our nation has gone bonkers. A financial accounting professor at a Catholic college in Boston was fired for discussing scenarios and pointing at students and saying "pow" during the discussion.

Parents of Virginia Tech students are demanding the firing of Va. Tech's President and Campus Police Chief in light of the tragedy.

Wow! I am a sensitive person. I feel for every single person affected by what occurred in Blacksburg. Everyone is taking this way too far though. When free speech is muted, simply because something unspeakable happened, a new tragedy takes place. For the straight-A student. He took an open ended essay and wrote junk. The junk that he wrote was within the scope of the uncensored "anything" essay. He broke no laws. I will be interested to see what comes of it. I wish he would sue the police department for unlawful arrest.

For a teacher to be fired for demonstrating (not even in bad taste) reality is absurd. How many times did we see reenactments and diagrams and visual aides in the media. How can someone get so offended by a teacher when they have already seen worse for hours on end on the news? What is even more absurd is the demand to fire the university President and Police Chief. What parents wanted was an immediate lock down of the school. Hello, it is a large and open university with 40,000 students. You can NOT lock down a campus like that. I agree that protocol, whatever that is for a situation that involves a complete nut job with very VERY bad intentions, may not have been followed. Is blaming the President and Chief really going to vindicate what happened at Va. Tech? No.

Everyone mourns and searches for answers of how such an unthinkable thing could ever happen, in different ways. Instead of overreacting and denying people their basic freedoms, let's find a way to cope with the fact that this could happen anywhere and at anytime when someone is that ill-willed and murderous. To try to make an example out of someone just to make yourself feel better and to reassure your own false sense of security is absolutely the wrong thing to do.

Reaching out to one another and accepting people regardless of society's view or your own pretentiousness is a much better approach to prevention.

Seatlle's Biggest Fan - A Sports Blog - Sorta.

2007-04-26T00:22:00.000-04:00

I remember a cloudy July morning. I turned on ESPN and watched some Sportscenter. They were doing a special piece called: "My Wish". It was narrated by Chris Connelly.

This particular piece (part of a 10 part series) was about a young girl named Katie Morris. She was 12 years old at the time and was suffering from a brain tumor. Katie was a very active young girl with an intense love for baseball. She was the only girl in her town that played on the little league team. After the tumor, obviously her life changed.

As part of the series, the Make-A-Wish Foundation granted her wish of seeing her favorite baseball team, the Seattle Mariners in action. It was a 150 mile trek to Seattle from her Oregon home. The Foundation was gracious enough to send her entire little league team with her to spend the day at the ballpark. In the video, once Katie stepped foot on the field, she knelt down and kissed the ground. With every player that she met, her eyes went wide with amazement and awe. In the biggest surprise of the day, Katie's best friend from her little league team, who had moved to the south with his family a few years previous, was also flown up for the day. The reunion was a sight like no other. Katie had the best day of her life, and she was truly Seattle's biggest fan.

It was a heart wrenching story that was beautifully done. I hope that I am not the only one to have seen it.

Katie celebrated her 13th birthday on the 19th of April. She passed away today. Sometimes stories stick with you and hearing this news today brought tears to my eyes and made me think. My problems are mundane and insignificant when the battle and struggle of a child such as Katie is taking place in this world. ESPN is airing replays of this My Wish segment at various times. It would be well worth it to catch it.

My thoughts go out to the family and friends of Seattle's biggest fan.

No Sports, but a Rant...Sorry

2007-04-25T13:41:00.000-04:00

The raining always starts when you go away.

Okay, so no sports in this post. Here’s a little something for the ladies though…

Vagina junction, what’s your function? Taking in sperm and spitting out babies.

Or how about this: stop reading blogs and get back in the kitchen and make me some dinner. Dammit woman, I’m hungry.

No, I’m just kidding of course. Those are very sexist and insensitive comments. I was only teasing; I will try to be more receptive to other blogs and not just sports.

But I am hungry.

I hope things are going well for Chris and Emily as they continue through their hellish law school finals. Chris is just wrapping up his graduate training and Emily, well…she has a way to go, but hang in there. I can’t imagine having finals like they do. Good luck. Poor Brooke has to be getting close to finals too. I can understand her finals stress a little more since my med school finals were probably similar to what she has to endure. Hang in there, summer is almost here and you’ll be in Toledo for six weeks. Good luck to you too.

Everyone seems very busy at work. Jacob is working on Saturdays because he is doing so well at work and Jon was nice enough to cover for the tax folk at his work and now is playing catch-up on his normal stuff. (They really should be helping you now, Jon). Anyhoo, I’m lazy. I wish someone could be lazy with me besides Ozkar. Oh well.

The Daily Show was fantastic last night. The Old Bush v. New Bush debate was great with Old Bush giving a deadline for Saddam to leave Iraq and New Bush saying deadlines and timelines are not necessary and only aid the enemy. Old Bush said Iraq was a haven for terrorists and Saddam must be forced out, while New Bush said Iraq is so unstable now that the US cannot leave because it will be a safe haven for terrorists. Old Bush believed you could not have patience and wait for UN inspections; while New Bush has explained the US needs to be patient with the new strategy in Iraq. How about we all agree New and Old Bush are just ridiculously stubborn, ill informed and unintelligent.

Seriously though a deadline does not mean the troops need to be home on a given date. Why not set goals for the Iraqi government? They must meet certain goals at a given time and then we can withdrawal troops. If these goals are not meant then there will be repercussions. Shit, Bush and his neo-cons have had a greater assault on public schools that fail. If you don’t meet their stupid goals they will stop government funding. Why not take that badass approach in Iraq? The US does need a timeline and a better strategy in Iraq or the reports of nine GI deaths and 20 injured in one day will become a daily news report. It almost already is.

The US casualties in Iraq as of 4/23/07 were 3,333. The number wounded was 26,188 as of 4/23/07. And in April of 2007 1,298 Iraq civilians have been killed due to military action, http://icasualties.org/oif/). This is unacceptable. There has to be a better way and that begins with a debate about appropriate actions; not blindly accusing anyone who questions this inept administration’s policies as un-American and not supporting the troops. Where’s Bush’s resolve for the sanctity of human life in the Iraqi War? Or does that sanctity only matter with abortion?

Okay, sorry I’m a little worked up and I don’t mean to stir up anyone else’s emotions. All of this frustrates me. Feel free to disagree, but if you do I may call you a terrorist. (Joking of course.)

Hockey's Back, Enjoy

2007-04-23T13:54:00.000-04:00

The Red Wings beat the Calgary Flames last night 2-1 in the second overtime to win the series 4-2 and advance to round two of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Is anyone really paying attention though?

If not, you should be.

I had forgotten how exciting hockey is. I didn’t boycott watching hockey because of the strike. I was not watching because I had become wrapped up in professional basketball and I won’t stand for a team from the south winning the Stanley Cup. Also, they went to wearing the dark uniforms at home. (Please go back to the white home uniforms for the '07-'08 season.)

This year I paid a little more attention to the NHL regular season and found myself enjoying it and wondering why I stopped watching every Red Wing game like I had while growing up. Then the Michigan State Spartans won the National Championship in dramatic fashion and the Wings wrapped up the regular season winning their division by overcoming the Nashville Predators.

I have watched the Wings playoff games this postseason and the 2-1 victory last night in a second overtime rejuvenated my love for hockey. It makes me want to strap on my roller blades and go play for endless hours like we all did when we were young. (There is a very nice roller hockey rink just down the street from my place…)

Anyhoo, DJ recently tried to say Detroit was a baseball town and not a hockey town. Then while in Detroit this past Saturday the entire town was clad in Red Wing jerseys, despite an intense Tigers/White Sox matinee, and he admitted his assessment was way off. “If you want to commit a crime in Detroit, just put on a Red Wings jersey. No one will be able to point you out,” he joked.

So the Wings will play either Dallas or San Jose later this week.

Hockey is alive and well. Take some time to enjoy it.

The Weekend Update (in reverse order)

2007-04-22T21:18:00.000-04:00

I wish Amy Pohler would be here to do the update with me, but since that is not possible, I will carry on.

I want to crash and go to bed, but I also want to watch the Red Wings. I wish I could do both at the same time.

Today I worked 12 hours. The overtime pay is nice, but it was the nicest day of the year. I missed it entirely.

I woke up at 4:30 in the morning this morning with the worst calf cramp possibly known to mankind. I was in so much pain. I seriously thought my only option would be to amputate. (I still can't walk correctly, but had a lot of water today and attempted stretches.

Yesterday, I enjoyed the majority of my day out of doors. It went a little bit like this:

I got up bright and early and went to the gym. It was Caleb's birthday and we had a golf outing. I went and bought a new driver that I promptly nicknamed "Godzilla". It is weird, but I am convinced that I hit the ball far enough to warrant the use of English subtitles. Golf was fun. I wasn't that good. We had a group of 19 guys out there, but surprisingly it wasn't a cluster-f&$%.

We went back to the homestead. We purchased a plethora of Little Caesars Hot-N-Ready pizzas. It prompted the worst joke ever on multiple occasions. On everyone's first bite they said, "damn that's hot!", I couldn't resist chirping in, "And Ready!". That was due to the giddiness that is Oberon beginning its course through my blood provides. We drank and played with pellet guns. I am a good aim, as we were shooting at birthday balloons. The pellets didn't really hurt, unless you got shot at point blank range. (which happened a few times).

Off to the bar we were. The Post started off very cool. Eerily cool. Definitely too cool. There were a multitude of 90's rap and popular music tracks playing. There was Biz Markie, Boys II Men, BBD, Salt-N-Peppa, and even Arrested Development. Shots were being purchased for the birthday boy. It was like an evening of chilling with AZ and the boys. Seemingly everything was fun, but then it wasn't. I guess I had a moment. I was unhappy and took the walk from East Lansing to my house. My emotions ranged from anger to tears. If I could explain it, I would. Regardless, the journey is much better when it is nice outside. I made it home with limited incidence.

Friday after work, I gathered supplies to have a BBQ. The chicken and shrimp ended up transforming into delicious grilled treats. I watched Gray's Anatomy for the first time. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I thought it was a television version of the spawn of Satan. I am not saying it was necessarily great, but it was not what I was expecting. Then I went to see Disturbia. I was quickly reminded of why it is a bad idea to go out to a movie on a Friday night. Sarah Roemer stole the show.....obviously. It was a very rough day in general, so I thought that it would be a good escape. It was, until I blew up on some people behind me. This row of 6 kids were going to be trouble from the start. They were loud and obnoxious throughout. Sadly, they directly contributed to the reasons that stereotypes still are so prevalent in America. I told them, in a polite manner exactly what I thought about their behavior. (Actually, I believe it was more like, "Would you shut the F*^% up?!.... I know you saved your $7 up all week to come to a movie, but seriously, shut the F&%^ up!"

Surprisingly, they did.

This is going to be a LONG week (but probably not as long as this post). I hope that everyone has a good one. My pillow is going to get my attention now. Word.

Take a moment

2007-04-20T07:10:00.000-04:00

TheBlogAlliance would like to urge you to observe a moment of silence today.

We are thinking about Dave and his family a little more today than normal. Everyone affected by last year's tragedy will never forget how our lives were changed with the loss of a loved one. We all remember Chris in our own separate ways, but we ALL remember the happiness he infused into our lives and the smiles that he never failed to put on everyone's faces.

Thank You.

Windy, but It's Almost Thursday

2007-04-18T08:53:00.000-04:00

We haven’t changed, we just feel a little strange. We haven’t changed; we’re just a little bit deranged.

Tomorrow is Thursday. Hooray for Thursday!

Delvon Roe is a Spartan. How many more times can I blog about a junior in high school? As many as I need to. This guy is the real deal. I’m not sure Michigan State has ever had such a versatile forward. If he stays more than two years, he will be one of the best ever to play for Michigan State basketball. He has great post moves, is an excellent rebounder, explosive to the hoop and has the ability to step back and hit a three pointer. Think about the Spartans in 2008-2009; Guards – Kalin Lucas, Travis Walton, Maurice Joseph (?), Chris Allen, Isaiah Dalhmen, Korie Loucious; Forwards – Raymar Morgan, Durrell Summers, Delvon Roe, Marquise Gray, Goran Suton, Austin Thorton; Centers – Idong Ibok, Tom Herzog. Yeah, the Spartans could go thirteen deep. Crazy. And again, the Final Four is in Detroit in 2009. Nice.

I think Southgate is the windiest city in the world. Maybe not, but prove me wrong…it’s probably not too hard.

The birthday blitz began with Brooke’s birthday on March 22. Followed by Emily on the 28th. My dad and brother on the first and fourth of April. Now Dave on the 26th and Jon on the 30th of April. Then Chris on May 2nd, he graduates from law school the next day, awesome and congrats and Jacob on May 11th. There is a slight break until June 16th when DJ gets to have a birthday celebration. Who am I missing? I’m sure I’m missing someone. Let me know. Happy Birthday to you all!

If there are two periods of Saved by the Bell I dislike, and there are, it’s the Miss Bliss years and when Tori entered the show for several episodes. They really make me angry. They shouldn’t, but they do.

Dave Carducci and the Wednesdees have some songs available to the public. Dave has always had songs on his myspace.com account, but now you can download Paper Knives from his website www.davecarducci.com. And you should download it. Also, The Wednesdees have uploaded their first original; It’s No Wonder, on their myspace.com account. Dave’s song slowly meanders through layered guitars and vocals giving Paper Knives a dreamy/relaxed but emotional feel while the Wednesdees song is classic sixties rock with powerful and driving back-up vocals in the chorus. Check these songs out.

What happened at Virginia Tech is a tragedy beyond words. The news outlets were quick to the scene and even quicker to start criticizing the local police officials. There will be plenty of time to dissect what occurred in Blacksburg, Virginia, but right now is time for morning and understanding of what exactly happened. If there were mistakes by the police, these issues can be discussed after the initial shock of this trauma has somewhat subsided. Katie Couric and Brian Williams were quick to start asking questions about why the police didn’t shut down the university sooner and NBC and CBS interviewed several upset students. Of course students are going to be upset; it’s a natural response in such a traumatic situation like this. However, emotions are high and the emotional response will not be as helpful as a rational discussion that can occur only after some time has passed to deaden the horror of the shootings. Likewise, I am a person who advocates for stricter gun laws, but I’m not going to start ranting about strengthening gun laws until there has been ample time to grieve. This country is so entrenched with violence and pointing blame that we don’t allow the proper time to grieve after tragedies like this.

Fell in Love With a Girl

2007-04-16T21:28:00.000-04:00

Guess what? I got my haircut today. Do you know what that means? It means Jonny had a 80/20 chance of falling in love. I have always had a strong inclination for women who cut hair. Huh.......

This trip was no different. her name was Morgan. She was a girl, I promise. I also have a friend named Morgan. He is good people, so by taking the link between the names, she must also be.

She is not my "type" if I have one. I know that "Andy hot" exists and I have heard that "Jon hot" exists, but am not sure what that really entails. I digress...... I dug her 'tude and her few dainty little tattoos. A conversationalist she was. I also dug her earrings. That means something, right?

I have not laughed more than that in an hour and a half in a long long time. I left with a smile on my face, and it has persisted through a so-so post-haircut trip to Kroger.

I will most likely never see her again for the rest of my life. It is probably better that way.

When will it all end?

2007-04-16T17:53:00.000-04:00

I am disgusted and taken back and the latest exhibition of senseless violence in our world. Today, the deadliest shooting in U.S. History occurred.

If somehow you haven't heard about it yet, check out the story on CNN.com

Or, there is an interesting timeline.

33 people died today in Blacksburg, VA on the campus of Va Tech in two shooting incidents about two hours apart. The first was in a dorm room. The second was in a lecture hall. It is disgusting.

Sadly, I think about how easily something like this could happen right here at MSU. It is a scary thought. Schools should be havens for learning and progress for our future, at all levels. Hopefully this trend of senseless violence reigning throughout our country will end soon. You can't make schools as secure as prisons, unless you are Monroe High. Regardless, you shouldn't have to.

My thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy.

Back to Life Back to Reality

2007-04-15T10:57:00.000-04:00

This was a weird weekend.

Friday evening I went out with some co-workers to happy hour. After three black and tans, I went home. It was the last social interaction that I have had to date. Of course there were a few text messages, but as we all know, those don't count.

There are pros and cons of this. It wasn't necessarily a fun weekend, but (1) I saved money, (2) was not hung over, (3) because of (2) I spent four and a half quality hours at the gym (which I desperately need), (4) cleaned my room, (5) in the process of (4) found Renee's book that I really need to send her back, (6) due to (5) I re-read Renee's book because I enjoyed it very much, (7) watched the Tigers amazing come from behind victory (and remember it), (8) started reading another book (Mary would be proud).

Today I should go to work for a bit, but it is sunny outside. I think I am going to go hit some golf balls in an attempt to tune up for the golfing portion of C-Lib's birthday extravaganza next weekend. Then the Red Wings are on tap. Then it is dinner with Chris and Katherine.

By the way, Happy Birthday Katherine!!

Now, to ramble on some more....

I think I need a reality check. Maybe it was how disturbingly sober I was, but I couldn't help to think that Avril Lavigne was super hot on SNL last night. I am not speaking musically of course. Apparently, I am out of the loop on things like this, but holy cow. After utilizing the World Wide Web, I confirmed that I was in fact correct. When did this happen? (usually I use my sources to keep me informed on celebrity happenings. Heads will roll for not keeping me informed on this one, ha ha)

Oh by the way, I have a general disdain for Christian / Inspirational rock at the gym. So does everyone else. Why it was on is beyond me.

Again, Happy Birthday Katherine! I am looking forward to our little El Azteco feast later on!

Wolfie is the New Costanza

2007-04-14T18:30:00.000-04:00

Whoa! Fuck the giving his girlfriend a raise and any unethical improprieties that may have occurred at the World Bank. Fuck all that.

How does Paul Wolfowitz have a girlfriend? Seriously.

So in short, ole Wolfie, the President of the World Bank, gave his girlfriend a huge raise and now folks are upset.

The New York Times reported, “The transfer and a subsequent raise eventually took her to a pay of $193,590 from $132,660, tax-free because of her status as a diplomat, and exceeding the salaries of cabinet members. “In hindsight, I wish I had trusted my original instincts and kept myself out of the negotiations,” Mr. Wolfowitz said.”

I guess power is a turn-on for women and especially Shaha Ali Riza, his girlfriend. These Bush cronies are obsessed with absolute power and have the balls to think they can get away with whatever they want; from lying the public into an un-winnable war in Iraq to revealing the identity of a spy because her husband disagreed with the administration to firing prosecutors for political reasons to giving girlfriends raises and promotions.

I wonder if Wolfowitz had a George Costanza moment and was getting it on in his office and just yelled, “I’m giving you a raise!” That would actually make me laugh; instead I’m just disgusted.

I’m disgusted by the utter disregard for law and the obsession with absolute power Wolfowitz and so many other Bush political friends have shown over the last seven years. But honestly, how does this dude have a girl?

Two in a Day?

2007-04-13T16:00:00.000-04:00

Yup. That’s right. Two blogs in one day from good old me.

So, the recovery period of a heavy night of drinking on a work night has passed. I am feeling back up to the upper ninetieth percentile of health. Drinking a closing bar out of beer and drinks is a fun fun thing to do. You should try it if you get some time.

In the midst of my recovery and uselessness at work today, I got an email from Verizon Wireless. It appeared to be just like any other notification that my statement was ready and my billing amount.

(Now some of you may know that my phone got stolen a few Saturdays ago. If you didn’t know that, now you do).

I opened my email to check what I would have to pay at the beginning of May. Much to my surprise, the amount due was $454. I was taken back a bit and proceeded to find out why. It turns out that in the time that I was trying to recover my phone; some douche bag downloaded a million games and other various things on my cell phone that apparently costs a fortune.

I called Verizon and spoke to a young customer support girl. She feigned concern and sympathy for my problem. She promptly told me that I was responsible for all of the charges until I reported it stolen. I pointed out when the insurance claim was made, etc, etc. I spoke to her supervisor and made a concrete case, proving that fraud occurred. He didn’t seem to care too much. I spoke to his supervisor. Finally, I got a woman with a little bit of sense. By this time, my case was air-tight. I won her over and got a credit of $390 posted to my account.

Boo-Ya. My day is not ruined.

Have a good weekend.

Farewell

2007-04-13T09:04:00.000-04:00

Goodbye Jimmy’s.

Last night we bid farewell to J’s P. It was a glorious event worthy of a little note on the bloggie blog. It all started with a small group of friends. Then it became something much more. If a bar could be an institution, it would be.

I am close to feeling like a real human being again. (an hour and a half into my workday)

Walking into a place that is so insanely busy is weird, but when it is Jimmy’s it is even weirder. We had to park in the lot next door.

There were all of the regulars that you would expect to see. Then there were others, like the darling little stripper girls. It was said that the place had to be breaking a fire code, since it was so packed. I commented that if the place went up in flames that we would all be screwed, since a cloud of herpes would certainly be looming.

I will give it to the blonde. Her stringy bleached hair was about as thin as her arms. She looked like she hadn’t eaten a real meal in weeks. To top it off, whatever she had eaten definitely was forcefully discarded from her system. Poor girl! I wish she would take just a few of those dollar bills and get something from a fast food dollar menu.

Anyways.

The hockey team showed up and shared their national championship trophy with everyone. It was nice of them. They are much better than the guys from the Lou and Harry’s fiasco a few years ago. Congrats again to them!

Now, I must find a new place to drink that provides the comforts of Jimmy’s and the company of such excellent people. It is a tough task, especially in this town, but hopefully things will fall into place.

Hopefully the J’s P email list will be utilized for happy reunions in the meantime.

And it Continues Again and Again and Again...

2007-04-11T09:24:00.000-04:00

I’m wearing out my vocal cords, because I am alone and bored.

No I didn’t use uzzi as a pun for Uzi. I’m stupid, but if you all would like to think I did and say, “Wow Andy is smart and creative,” I ain’t gonna stop ya. (That sounded smart didn’t it).

Is anyone as bored of these Wednesday posts as I think they should be? I mean they pretty much all follow the same format: a comment about medicine, usually from the New York Times, something about how awful President Bush is, something about sports and maybe a witty comment or two (but usually not). I apologize for the Wednesday monotony.

I love the Wire. Have I ever mentioned that? I just watched the first season for the second time. It is more focused on the character development of the police and drug traffickers than the following seasons, but outstanding nonetheless. I wish I could talk like the characters in the Wire though. The cool thing about it is they have interviewed several drug dealers and some of the actors are former “players in the game” so the dialogue is very accurate of the Baltimore drug dialect. How fun would it be to say, “He gots to get got,”? Or “I might can do that,”? Or “She’s good police (said like poe-leese),”?

I would love to have some hush puppies and peppered Mahi Mahi from any one of the fine restaurants on Hilton Head Island.

So Dwyane Wade played for the first time in six weeks last Sunday; 3-9 from the field and 6-12 from the free throw line. He must have done something more than simply dislocating his non-shooting shoulder. Whatever, he still annoys me.

Check it out. On April 4, 2007 it was 63 degrees in Southgate, Mi. On April 5, 2007 it was 34 degrees with flurries. And since April 5, 2007 the high temp was 45 degrees, roughly 17 degrees below normal. Increase those greenhouse emissions folks; I’m fucking sick of the cold weather. Don’t really do that, but this weather is ridiculous.

Delvon Roe is going to make his decision where he will go to school next year this week. The 6’8’’ power forward, a Top 10 consensus player in the Class of 2008, will choose between Michigan State and North Carolina. His style of play fits in much better with the Spartans, but there are some indications he will choose the Tar Heels. However, UNC is up on two of the other top three power forward prospects in 2008 and already have a couple of strong power forwards in their line-up. If he commits to State, Izzo’s team will be stacked in ‘08 and ‘09.

Perhaps my dislike for Rick Comely is mildly displaced. The Spartan hockey team won their first National Championship since 1986 this past Saturday and Comely did an outstanding job. The entire tournament the Spartans won in dramatic fashion and the Championship game was no exception. It also helped renew my interest in hockey. I’m looking forward to the NHL playoffs and I have a good feeling about the Wings this year.

See, a little more sports this week, a little less politics and a ramble about the Wire. Sorry for the repetition and redundancy and writing the same post over and over and over and over again…

Good Friday for Drinking (Revisited) and Good Saturday for Winning a National Championship!!

2007-04-07T20:50:00.000-04:00

Let me start out by saying congratulations to the Michigan State University hockey team on winning the 2007 National Championship. That feels much better than being a national runner-up. More on that later.

This could be either the best, or worst post ever made. It is your choice. Well, I guess it could be in the middle somewhere too.

You have heard AZ talking about revisiting the Good Friday for Drinking celebration. It turned out to be an excellent celebration, worthy of the prior and initial celebrations. Here is a taste of what you may have missed.

Laying the ground rules.

Before the Easter egg hunt.

After the Easter Egg hunt!

I think Morgan scared Jacob.

Does anyone like the music? (Biz Markie, Weezer, Madonna, and many many more)

Chris digs the jazzy tunes.

Emily likes the hot dog race.

AZ getting the dancing started.

Bringing down the house.

Refueling from the dancing.

This portion of the posting is brought to you by Bell's Oberon.

DJ playing with Jacob.

JC playing with Emily.

Kohler as the guest DJ.

After much rehearsal.

Jacob takes a turn.

Jacob's music did something to me.

Emily wanted a ride too.

Kirby is impressed, or confused.

Behind the scenes of one of the most obnoxious voicemails in the history of voicemails. I hope it at least made you chuckle.

Emily and Lindsay didn't think there was anything wrong with it.

and after a few more beers......

Emily wanted to ride again!

Jacob straight chillin'

AZ lost his shirt.....and pants.

Then became profoundly tired.

Morgan profoundly sober. I don't think I know what the word profoundly means.

My shirt tastes good.

Dirty Dancing anyone? (I owe it all to you)

Emily scared of the lift. (peer pressure rules)

And finally.....the family portrait.

Cherubs with Uzzis and Dislocated Shoulders

2007-04-04T12:15:00.000-04:00

I’m so sorry. So sorry. I’m so terribly, terribly sorry.

That’s right I like that Youth Group song. Is that wrong? Maybe, but I like sappy pop music sometimes. Back off.

Many of my last several posts have just been mini-Wednesday posts.

That was a pointless sentence.

Is anyone else as sick of Dwyane Wade and the Miami Heat as I am? ESPN loves them because they create the best drama. Shaq doesn’t play half the year because he is old and fat. Then when he comes back everyone talks about how great he is, but he can only score when his fat old ass fouls first. Then Wade gets injured with a dislocated shoulder and the media treats it as if his arm fell off. Hey Drew Stanton separated his shoulder, a far more ominous injury, and came back – thanks to a little osteopathic manipulative management – after three weeks. Usually that injury requires surgery. A dislocated shoulder is popped back into place on the spot. Happens all the time in football. Pat Riley leaves and then comes back and now looks excited about coaching again. The Heat were on the verge of not making the playoffs and now they are a three seed. They annoy me. I hate soap operas. I don’t care for Riley or Wade. But I do like Shaq. Regardless the Heat piss me off and annoy me to no end.

Speaking of shoulder dislocations. Here is a little trivia. The most common dislocation is in an anterior/inferior direction. However, posterior dislocations are seen in individuals who have been electrocuted. Ouch.

Happy Birthday Jeff. A belated blogging Happy Birthday to my Dad. The spring birthday blitz is officially upon us. Awesome.

The “Thad Five” seem to be following the same path as the “Fab Five.” Both teams loaded with freshman talent made it to the championship game only to get blown out by an experienced veteran team. The Ohio State lost to a junior/senior group at Florida and Michigan lost to a Duke team who was the last team to repeat until the Gators did it this year. I imagine the “Thad Five” will continue along the same path and eventually the Buckeye basketball program will be on probation.

I often discuss psych issues and write about how medications are over-used or are just more harmful than helpful. The New York Times ran an article earlier this week about how depression may be over-diagnosed by up to 25%. That’s nuts, especially considering many of those over-diagnosed patients will be put on anti-depressants and be subjected to all of their side-effects. It was an interesting article, I have not read the study closely yet, but maybe I will ramble about that later.

Should I get my haircut? I think I will.

My cat, Ozkar, has fallen into the toilet twice now.

I would appreciate it if Mother Nature could get it right. Kurt Cobain said it best, “Mother Nature is a whore.” And we all know how I feel about whores. I love them. No, I hate them.

I do that joke too much.

There is a car dealership I pass on my run almost everyday. He has a sign out front that I assume he is trying to use for inspirational quotes that usually have a religious tone. For example, “If you are too busy for God, then you are too busy.” And, “Love is nothing but the footprint of an angel.” “Those who fear guns, fear freedom.” That one wasn’t too religious. Yesterday was a little different as well. It read, “Don’t get stuck in stupid.” This jackass used car salesman seems to be stuck in stupid. I would like to kick him and leave a footprint and then tell him I’m a cherub who carries an Uzzi because I love freedom and God.

I told you all this would be long. I guess I didn’t warn you it was gonna be pointless too.

Ain't Nothing Better for the Down and the Out

2007-04-02T20:53:00.000-04:00

I wanted to see the TV Set when I read about it in Rolling Stone several months ago.

I just saw a preview for it and my favorite Joel Plaskett song was playing in the background, “Television Set.” Good choice…I bet it’s a good movie too.

I too can write short posts apparently. But be ready for Wednesday, it's gonna be super long. Maybe not.

Fortune Cookie Prognostications

2007-03-30T19:46:00.000-04:00

I just ate a huge dinner of Chinese food. Fantastic.

Then I got to the fortune cookies. There were four. I ate them all.

Which one do you all, the readers of The Blog Alliance, believe is true or will come true?

Here are the four:

1. You will get what you want with your charming personality
2. Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery
3. You are naturally competitive
4. Your act of kindness will warm another’s soul

So vote if you’d like. It’d be cool if number one wins…but no pressure…

Birthday Time!

2007-03-28T07:23:00.000-04:00

Happy birthday Emily! 24 years old. It seems like just yesterday you were 23.

And not too long ago Jeff had to say, "Both kids busted in the same picture," after Mom asked why you would have a beer in your hands as a freshman in college.

And not too far removed from that, when we took you to 426 MAC and JC's house. You were 15 and maybe not ready for that. But I think it was a valuable experience. Your welcome.

And it doesn't seem too long ago when I would drive you to piano lessons and 89X always seemed to play Bound to the Floor and then Tubthumping. I think the latter song defined our adolescence....nope that's not true. Anyhoo...

I'm looking forward to La Fiesta.

Let's hope the only downsizing that happens to you is that someone downsizes your age.

Two Years Later...

2007-03-25T18:01:00.000-04:00

Two years ago; a Good Friday for Drinking.

Michigan State 78, Duke 68. The Spartans would eventually advance to their fourth Final Four in seven years.

That was and will always be one of the best days of my life. The entire gang was there. Jon and I got to Lou and Harry’s around noon. We started drinking. One of the Lou and Harry’s managers asked if we were going to come back for the game. We said we were here for the game. (The game didn’t start until seven that evening.)

Here is a link to my favorite Spartan basketball picture of all time: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0703/gallery.cbb.upsets/content.6.html.

Thanks for posting that on Emily’s myspace Brooke.

In other news, Florida cheats.

In some other news I have posted several pictures from various things as well as a Minus Grover video on my .mac page. Here’s the link. I finally have all of the Wednesdees pictures loaded and some from recent gatherings. Here is the link to that page: http://homepage.mac.com/minusg981/Menu1.html.

I hope everyone has had a good weekend. Have a nice week.

I'm on CI, a Day Late

2007-03-22T16:50:00.000-04:00

I wanna sink to the bottom with you. The ocean is big and blue. I just wanna sick to the bottom with you.

Sorry this is a day late. Did anyone miss me? Probably not.

Only one more day in the “CI.” That’s what the cool kids say at Henry Ford for the Cardiac ICU. If you are in the Medical ICU and want to sound cool you say, “I’m in the MI or I’m on MI.” Surgical ICU, SI. Neurological ICU, NI. Get it?

It’s weird though because MI can mean so many other things. Myocardial Infarction (heart attack), mental illness or mentally impaired. To say you’re on MI and mean you’re on a mentally impaired person is just not cool.

Speaking of the CI, I have two things:
1. There is a patient who isn’t putting out urine and the toxins may be causing some mental status changes. On a brief mini-mental status exam the patient was asked who the president was. He answered Truman at first. Then he said, “No. Not him. I know the guy is from Texas and they got to get his ass out of there.” Later he said Bush was president. You know you’re doing pretty badly when a delirious/possibly demented patient knows you suck at your job. Or maybe it doesn’t matter…Either way it was funny.
2. In another striking example of my immaturity and not-readiness-to-be-a-doctor, today I was asked, “What do you think of his DIC profile?” DIC stands for disseminated intravascular coagulation. But he said dick. I laughed. I need to grow up. Eventually I answered the question correctly.

Detroit smelled funny today…or maybe it was me…or maybe both…but I think Detroit won…maybe not.

It’s sunny and windy and spring. Happy Vernal Equinox (a day late).

Tomorrow, the Wednesdees. Everyone should be there. Cool. Here’s the address again: he Berkley Front is located at 3087 W. 12 Mile Rd. Show starts at 9.00, five-dollar cover.

I was 26/32 in Round One of the NCAA Tournament. Overall I’m 36/48. That’s okay I think. Ha ha Wisconsin.

This wasn’t very good, but shorter than usual and that might be a little nice.

My grammar was poor too. Sorry.

Questions Answered

2007-03-18T13:54:00.000-04:00

I was adding pictures to my myspace account out of sheer boredom and apathy toward my cardiology reading. There is nothing to do but watch basketball, which is fine but I don’t like Tennessee. On a side note I was 26/32 in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Second round…not so good.

Anyhoo, I came across this question at the bottom of my myspace page: "Are You Gay?"

Man would I like to know. So I clicked on the link and this was the introduction to the website: Welcome to 20QuestionQuizzes.com a website dedicated to helping you answer Life's tough questions.

I’m pleased it only takes 20 questions to answer life’s tough questions, because although I’m very lazy today, I don’t have the time or patience to do anything more than 20 questions.

So I took the quiz. Here were my results:
“andrew,
Thank you for taking the Are You Gay Quiz!
Here are your results. You scored a 42.5% - Not Gay, but just barely. Which is actually quite good. You're able to express yourself through emotion while still being a man around your buddies. This means that you are in touch with your feminine and masculine sides, meaning that your masculine side will touch more feminine sides! ;)”

Take that Adrienne. Although I find the ;) to be more than 42.5% gay, but who am I to argue. I’m just glad I had this important question put to rest once and for all.

Why You Shouldn't Drink During the Week.......Or Why Alumni Shouldn't Have to go to Work the Day After Your Team Plays in the NCAA Tournament

2007-03-16T13:49:00.000-04:00

When you do the aforementioned, you end up stumbling into your Friday morning meeting a tad bit late in jeans and a Michigan State hooded sweatshirt. Ironically, yesterday evening our boss sent an email suggesting that we wear college sweatshirts today, in spirit of March Madness. I was covered on that one. I was a little taken back though, at the length of the meeting. It was a solid 5 hours. I kept drifting in and out of consciousness. My headaches persisted and I had major dumb dumbs. I got through it though.

When we finally broke for lunch, I went home and lied on the couch. I watched a little basketball and wished I didn’t have to go back to work. Here I am though.

Congrats MSU. You didn’t look great last night, but you did what you needed to. I feel bad for Ibok. His elbow injury was disgusting.

It was a fun night in celebration.

AZ didn’t call me back. He is a liar.

Today

2007-03-15T10:12:00.000-04:00

St. Patty’s Day is upon us, as are the ides of March.

Beware the Ides of March!!!!

Today is also the beginning of the greatest sporting event known to the world, the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. If you are not a big fan of sports, then I personally apologize about the last week of posts. They were probably even more boring than usual for you to skim through.

For anyone who is interested, I would like to extend a formal invitation to any and all who read this to join me in celebrating the rare weekend St. Patrick’s Day. I am thinking of slumming it in Lansing, rather than the overcrowded East Lansing scene. It will be a welcomed change of pace and a darn good time. I know it is a far drive for most, but I think it would be well worth it. How often do you really get to see me? Take advantage before I fall off the face of the planet.

What a coincidence, State’s colors include green. They play at 7:20 (4:20 Pacific). You should watch them win. Go State!

You Remind Me of a West Side Story

2007-03-14T19:27:00.000-04:00

When AZ and I chose regions on Selection Sunday, I didn't realize how lame my regions were (not really, this one could have the best matchup in the tournament). Although, as you could probably tell, in the south region, I am truly sweet on TAMU.

The wild wild west could be just that. On the other hand, it could be the opposite of that. I think that the west has the best chance of us seeing a 1 v. 2 matchup in the elite eight.

On the upset watch in the west are: Holy Cross and Gonzaga. Illinois almost made that short list, but they struggle scoring points. Their defense isn't strong enough to stop Va. Tech from scoring that many points. Bruce Weber has been out of his comfort zone all year long. He probably feels a little like Tom Izzo at this point. That's what happens when you lose the likes of Dee Brown, Luther Head, and Deron Williams in recent time.

Staying in the state of Illinois. The Salukis could be in trouble. They are the quintessential overrated mid-major. Sure, they play great defense, but they struggle on the O side of the ball. At around 64 points per game against the less than formidable Missouri Valley Conference schedule, SIU doesn't appear sharp. Please don't expect their bench to pick up some slack. Depth is not the Salukis' friends.

Holy Cross is on a high after edging out their arch nemesis Bucknell, who have kept the Crusaders out of the tourney for the past two years. They are also a little hot. HC has won 18 of their last 20 games. Although this feat was done against sub-par Patriot League. The Cruisaders are small but quick. Led by Sr. guards Torey Thomas and Keith Simmons, they have a solid backcourt. The common theme in this matchup is depth, or lack thereof. If foul trouble becomes an issue in this one, it is anyone's game. Look for Holy Cross to edge one out though.

The other upset will be Gonzaga. Even with their troubles off the court, they can still put a team with some heart on the floor. I have been watching Indiana all year long. They have blown up what could have been an impressive season. DJ White needs to be on, but so often he is not. They are this year's Michigan State, bowing out in the first round.

Kentucky wants to be impressive and surprising, but they won't be. Although they will have enough to overcome Villanova, Tubby Smith will be wishing the AD would let him go, just for a change of scenery. Kansas will beat them handily.

Virginia Tech gets what equates to a two round bye to get to the Sweet Sixteen this year. You can make the T-shirts up right now. They can forget about doing anything else though. UCLA also cruises to a Sweet Sixteen birth. As does Duke. I know what you are thinking.....overrated. I am not going to discuss that here. Pittsburgh is inconsistent. Duke is going to ride Coach K's name to victory.

The Sweet Sixteen turns into a kitchen appliance in the west. UCLA and Kansas make their opponents disappear like a garbage disposal. It also becomes proven that Duke can never EVER be a Cinderella story, especially as a #6 seed.

UCLA / Kansas is a good game. UCLA will make it two straight Final Fours behind Collison's tender ankle and Affalo's hot hand. They can play a little deeper than Kansas if need be. Don't let their two straight losses, at Washington, and against California fool you. They have a stellar record against stellar opposition. The Bruins have notched wins in 9 out of 10 matchups with ranked opponents this year, including: Washington, USC, Texas A&M, and Arizona twice. They also beat Michigan by 37. I like that. Kansas is hot right now. They have won 11 in a row, including two against Texas. You know what they say about teams that go into the tournament without a recent loss........ I think they say that is a bad thing. The dynamic Sophomore trio of Rush, Chalmers, and Wright will be on. They will be the only ones though and you had better believe that they will be keyed in on defense.

It is UCLA out of the west folks.

The Midwest - 2007 Preview

2007-03-14T01:16:00.000-04:00

Oh the Midwest. How the hell is Florida the overall number one seed and given the Midwest Region? That distinction belonged to the Ohio State. The NCAA selection committee really dropped the ball with that.

Anyhoo, don’t expect the Gators to repeat. If there is any good in the world, and I like to think there is lots of it, the good will prevent the evil – portrayed by Billy Donovan and Florida – from repeating.

The Midwest in summary:
Who’s Coming Out – Wisconsin
Who’s Out Early – Butler
Most Overrated – Notre Dame, Maryland
Most Underrated – Winthrop

The twelve-over-five upset is for sure here. Old Dominion will beat Butler. I understand Butler has had a cute year and everyone wants to jump on the mid-major bandwagon, but Old Dominion has too much offensive firepower and athleticism. The Monarchs have won eleven of their last twelve games. Make it twelve of their last thirteen. Then thirteen of their last fourteen before falling to Florida in the Sweet Sixteen.

The Arizona/Purdue match-up is intriguing, because I’m not sure either team is all that good. Purdue gets a nine seed like Michigan State, but Michigan State had several more quality wins and a stronger non-conference schedule. Arizona closed out the season strong, but their resume is not overly impressive. I like the Wildcats simply because of Lute Olsen’s experience and their overall athleticism.

Go Winthrop! I don’t like Notre Dame. Winthrop almost got a win over Tennessee in last year’s tournament. This year they will upset the Fighting Irish.

Oregon is a solid team and I’m surprised by who has emerged as the star of the Ducks. I always thought Malik Hairston would take over, but Bryce Taylor has been the man for Oregon. Detroit native, Tajuan Porter, is a good freshman point guard and the Ducks look like a Sweet Sixteen team.

Who knocks out the Ducks? Wisconsin. I hate Alando Tucker. I have argued he has syphilis (is that libel? Emily, Chris). However, the Badgers are tough. They will get past Texas A&M Corpus Christi. UNLV may hang for a half, but the Badgers will pull away late. Oregon will fall to the Badgers and then they will meet up with Florida.

Florida, the undeserving overall number one seed, has the easiest route to the Elite Eight. Maryland will beat Davidson and then lose to the Monarchs, setting up an Old Dominion/Florida match-up. The Cinderella story ends for the Monarchs by the evil Gators and their evil coach Billy Donovan.

Teddy Dupay may take the day off from work at Arby’s to come out of the stands and try to injure Alando Tucker like he did to Mateen Cleaves in the 2000 Championship game. He definitely does not have anything better to do and I think his YMCA team has the night off. I would not be too mad about Dupay doing this because Tucker is evil too, but in reality Florida does not handle teams who play solid half-court defense very well. The Badgers will keep this a low scoring game and Joakim Noah and his less annoying counterpart the Grand Ledge Michigander, Al Horford, will have to overcome foul trouble. Thus, on Wisconsin, on Wisconsin to the Final Four (read in the melody of Wisconsin’s fight song).

The Midwest is a weaker bracket. I like Old Dominion making some noise. Look out for Oregon and everyone pray Florida does not advance to Atlanta. They won’t and the Big Ten will hopefully get two teams to the Final Four again.

Making Urine, Cool on the Rage

2007-03-14T01:15:00.000-04:00

I suppose I’ve seen you three times now and I guess that I’m wondering how you keep the boys at bay. I have a feeling that they are wondering too.

I saw a bumper sticker that read, “NRA. The frontline of freedom.” I hate the philosophy freedom is only maintained via the threat of or the use of force.

The Blades of Glory movie looks very funny and I’m excited because Nick Swardson is in it. He is hilarious.

During my last call this past Monday I made sure to drink a lot of fluids. Sometimes I get too busy and don’t drink enough water. When I come home and take a nap I always wake up to a nasty cramp in my right calf muscle. Yesterday I woke up in the late afternoon with no cramp and feeling very refreshed. I urinated a lot which made me laugh because that is one of the things I have become fairly competent at treating; that is someone who is fluid overloaded for one reason or another and diuresing them. A nurse will say, “Andy, your patient isn’t making urine. What do you want to do?” I’ll reply, “Is he on Lasix? If not give him 40 IV push.” Generally, the patient starts peeing a lot after that. I laughed because I think the statement, “Not making urine” is funny, especially while I was urinating.

When will the accepted intolerance toward homosexuals end? History never looks kindly on individuals who repress the rights of others and who discriminate based on race, sexual preference, gender, etc. General Pace is an idiot. I think he is really Tim Hardaway’s boyfriend and they do it five times a week.

My brother brought up an interesting point: Michigan State should have been higher than a nine seed. When you look at the other nine seeds the Spartans are far better. Purdue had a better Big Ten record, but a worse record overall and an easy non-conference schedule. Moreover, Purdue only played Wisconsin once and lost to the Ohio State three times. The Boilermakers only quality win was a blowout over Michigan State in which the Spartans were playing undermanned. Another nine seed, BYU, was destroyed by Michigan State earlier in the year at the Spartan Clash. Those teams are not equal to the Spartans. I still think Michigan State can pull the upset over North Carolina.

The Wednesdees will be playing on March 23 at the Berkley Front. The Berkley Front is located at 3087 W. 12 Mile Rd and starts at 9 pm. There is a 5$ cover and everyone should attend. It is going to be fun.

My dad doesn’t like it when you write 5$ like that and not like $5. Anyhoo…

The spring-like weather here in Michigan has put a big smile on my face. Some people worry about if I’m happy. I really am feeling very good. My legs are tired after my run, but that’s a different story. I hope everyone else is having a good 2007. I really do.

Speaking of 2007, I decided I was not going to resort to road rage this year. Today while driving home from Henry Ford a man ran a red light and cut me off. Instead of yelling I politely stated, “Sir, that was unnecessary.” Then I went back to singing Jamie.

I feel like a gathering/party is in order. The last party was at Chris’ in January, which was very, very good. I think another get together could be fun, but we would need to coordinate an acceptable weekend for everyone. Or maybe a Monroe night…What do ya’ll think?

NCAA - The Dirty South

2007-03-12T21:18:00.000-04:00

I get the pleasure of collaborating with AZ, covering the greatest sporting event in the world. That's right, the Bass Master Tournament.

AZ was gracious enough to give my limited insight into the NCAA basketball tournament. He knows darn well he could have done a better job than I will. That's ok, because I shut him out in Tecmo Bowl.

If the South Region was in high school it would be voted "The Region MSU Most Wished it was in".

It is a rather weak region, with plenty of room for some upsets.

Ohio State has the obvious advantage. If they ever wanted to show that they can be the most dominant team in college basketball, all they would have to do is feed the ball to Greg Oden. In my opinion they do not do that nearly enough. You don't have to lay off of him, Thad. It is not like he is a freshman. He is 32 years old. OSU racks up two easy wins, with little to no effort.

The Elite Eight matchup will be very intriguing. It is going to be The Buckeyes taking on the Aggies. Sorry DJ, but Acie Law IV is going to be too hot to handle. He is ridiculously clutch. TAMU also has enough big guys to foul Oden. They play fast, with quick defense and are efficient on both ends of the floor.

Now before you get upset at my choice, consider this: A&M's last five out of their six losses were by a combined 10 points. These included opponents such as then #1 UCLA, #15 Texas, and pesky Texas Tech and Oklahoma State squads. They also Beat Texas and Kansas. Them are some good apples.

Louisville will beat Stanford. It will be close though. Brook Lopez and Anthony Goods are talented, but will fall short to a crafty set-play that Pitino's boys execute late. If you hate Louisville like me, you will feel better knowing that you will see Rick Pitino cry after they lose in the second round by at least 15.

On the upset watch are 10th seeded Creighton and 12th seeded Long Beach State. Yes, now I may be talking crazy. Whatever. Long Beach has the emotional edge. After a Big West Tournament title and an NCAA berth, it is still rumored that the 49ers coach will be dismissed after season end. Players never like that, and will play on an emotional high.

Virginia is quite possibly my least favorite 4 seed ever. We will have to wait until Ohio State dismantles them to restore order to the bracketological world. Sure, everyone loves solid guard play, but what happens when guard play stagnates and shots don't fall like they would in Charlottesville? That is what we will soon see.

That leaves the most un-intriguing matchup in the region. Xavier / BYU. Just typing that made me bored. If I have to pick, I would go Xavier. Some say they are the most overrated team in the tourney. I might agree. The Buccaneers will beat BYU though, because BYU is simply even more overrated.

In other news......Michigan State plays their first round matchup at 7:20 on Thursday. The scheduling gods love me!

P.S. * 2nd seeded Memphis was purposely left out of this discussion. I don't believe that a dirty and cheating program such as theirs deserves mention in such a classy and highly regarded blog.

The East - 2007 Preview

2007-03-12T06:21:00.000-04:00

It’s here. The best sporting event: the NCAA Tournament. That’s a fact.

JC and I have decided to give a comprehensive preview of this year’s tourney. He will take the West and South. I get the East and Midwest.

My prognostications are hit or miss. I’m never kinda right. It’s all or nothing. But enough, let’s get to the preview.

The East in summary:
Who’s Coming Out – Georgetown
Who’s Out Early – Vanderbilt
Most Overrated – Vanderbilt
Most Underrated – Michigan State, Washington State

The East appears to be a fairly tough bracket. Michigan State if they get out of the first round has never lost a second round game under Tom Izzo. North Carolina has the talent to win it all. Texas is inconsistent, but when they are on they look very good. And Georgetown has just gotten progressively better all season. There are no easy outs in the tournament and this bracket truly confirms that.

I like Georgetown in the East. Roy Hibbert is a monster and Jeff Green is one of the most explosive players in the country. The Hoyas have decent depth and play sound defense. Moreover, Georgetown will play in East Rutherford in the Regional Final, which will be like a home game for John Thompson III and his Hoyas.

So who will Georgetown beat to advance to Atlanta? Most people will tell you North Carolina. Some of those people will say North Carolina will advance to the Final Four. Slow down.

North Carolina is a great team, but if the Spartans of Michigan State beat Marquette (and that is my prediction) this will provide a very interesting match-up. Why? Well as already stated, Tom Izzo has never lost a second round NCAA Tournament game, it is an odd year (in 1999, 2001, 2005 State went to the Final Four and the Elite Eight in 2003) and the Spartans have shown the ability to play with anyone in the country. However, State has never beaten the Tar Heels in the NCAA tournament and North Carolina has way too much talent and depth to be upset by a young Spartan team. Call me delusional, but State upsets North Carolina and moves on to the Elite Eight where they run into the mighty Hoyas.

I really like Washington State. Dick Bennett is a great coach and the Cougars play exceptional defense, rebound well and are patient on offense. All of that will get them to the Sweet Sixteen. Vanderbilt is not deserving of a six seed, but I don’t think George Mason has the power to make another run. Vandy advances in the first round, but gets blown out by the Cougars.
The twelve-over-five upset happens every year and I think in general every five seed is very vulnerable this year. In the East Arkansas’ big man Steven Hill and tournament experienced coach, Stan Heath, will pull the upset over the fifth seeded Southern Cal. But will ultimately have their season ended by Texas in the second round. Michigan State has already beaten Texas once and the Longhorns will fall to State again.

So there is my East. Insane? Perhaps, but I put a lot of faith in my Spartans. Washington State could make some noise and Arkansas has the tools to put some fear into USC and Texas. Kevin Durant is a very talented freshman, but overall the Longhorns do not have great focus. I think Georgetown comes out and advances to the Final Four in Atlanta.

Random Occurrences

2007-03-11T17:15:00.000-04:00

WARNING: If there are any LADIES who read this blog that are easily offended by random occurrences of bodily proportions, PLEASE stop reading NOW.

This weekend was full of random occurrences. There are only two that are being highlighted here. I have a friend whom I haven't seen in a long time who was up in E.L. to visit this weekend. To protect her identity, we will call her "Emily". In the midst of a Michigan State Loss and a 6 hour Jimmy's Pub excursion, we became tired. We went home to sleep on the L for a little bit. I actually set my alarm to wake from the nap to go party again. I woke up when I received a phone call from someone who wanted me to meet up with her. It was 11 something at night. I had the sense to say that I was in no shape to meet her, and that something stupid would surely ensue if I would have. Although that is random and out of the ordinary for me to make responsible decisions, that is not the random occurrence that I am talking about.

It is in the morning, when "Emily" told me she had gotten sick for a little bit in the middle of the night.

That isn't random, but this is:

Is it possible to drink so much that your body is thrown so out of whack that it starts to process beer as its natural raw materials. I hope so, because the leafy substance that "Emily" vomited (which she described as bay leafy) has no other viable explanation. (Other than Hangar 18)

Randomness number two.

At Chris' house in Brighton last night, AZ, Chris, and I were playing some Tecmo Bowl and drinking alcohol. I was only about four beers deep and AZ said something funny. Actually, I don't think it was that funny at all. I started laughing while I was drinking though and almost spit my beer out on the carpeting. I didn't though. I went out on the deck and leaned over the railing. Yes, I vomited. It prompted a lightweight response or two, in which my 400 lb. frame denies. I continued to drink until the beer was gone and retired at 4:30am. In other related news, AZ complemented me on my jeans. The waists were 40's. I guess that is something to be proud of.

Andy is Tired.

2007-03-11T01:35:00.000-05:00

But he is typing.

Tecmo was partially a success for AZ. He was 1-4 against me today. The overall score was 97-37. But, at two games, it was 72-6.

Oprah Winfrey is the Blair Witch.

Angela......Mona.....Samantha....

I think the girls from Full House made out with the girls from Who's The Boss.

Will State beat Duke?

No. In Jon's opinion. Yes in Chris's and AZ's.

A girl who's name starts with an A, thinks I am stupid.

The New York Islanders uni's are ugly.

Drink or play Tecmo bowl. That is AZ's question.

Was it Thursday or Friday?

2007-03-09T09:57:00.000-05:00

This week I was frail and bedazzled. I mixed up my days. I missed my favorite show, The Hills, which is always on Monday night. I somehow thought that it was on Wednesday night. I messed up. I watched half of it last night, so I feel halfway better.

Last night was Thursday, but I treated it like Friday. I have today off of work, which is the real Friday.

Spring Break in East Lansing. I love it. No one is here. I went to PT O'Mally's for the first time in years and years. I also went to Ricks Ricks Ricks Ricks Ricks Weird.

The MHSA crowd was out in force. I like those people very much. Madelyn is moving to California. It is excellent for her, bad for us. I have someone new to visit out there, or hang out with when I move out there.

Prom pictures were a plenty. So were the shots.

I am a floozie.

Beer

2007-03-07T17:13:00.000-05:00

Do you like drinkin'? Well, if you're like me - you like to get bit just as fast as possible.

(That's from Tracy Morgan's "Uncle Jemima" skit on SNL.)

Anyhoo, check out this blog dedicated to the enjoyment of drinking different types of beers at various points in the year. Here is the site: http://seasonalbeerblog.blogspot.com/

Yeah, it's Jeff's blog.

Procrastination and Pacing

2007-03-07T06:48:00.000-05:00

I need a fix because I’m going down, down to the bits I left uptown. I need a fix because I’m going down. Mother Superior jump the gun.

Jeans are expensive, but I needed a new pair.

“I ain’t looking down cuz I don’t c nobody abuv me!” was the name of a young man on myspace.com. You see some whore named Lucy asked me to be her friend. I clicked on it just to confirm her whoreness. Sure enough I was right. But this young man’s name makes no sense. Why would looking down confirm there was no one above you? If it were a spelling contest I’m pretty sure there would be a class of second graders above him, because it’s not hard to spell “see” or “above.”

Part of me feels as if ole Scooter Libby was used as a scapegoat for an administration drenched in dirty politics and the ambition of absolute power. Libby has a large enough name to make big headlines, but he is no Karl “the Devil” Rove. He could face roughly 20 years in prison however, that sentence is unlikely. So the lesson is don’t lie…or don’t lie to the press…or don’t be a douche bag.

I was reading a blog on NYTimes.com by John Tierney, for whom I don’t care too much, concerning whether Baby Boomers are whiners or really have several medical issues that impact their life in a deleterious fashion. I would discuss this, but it would be too long and would eventually go back into my sensitivity v. specificity argument (see the post no one read and rightfully so, on 1/11/07). However, as I was reading this I came across a quiz to see if one is a procrastinator. I clicked on it to see how I would rate on the procrastination scale. I went through the first fifteen questions and then saw there were still ten more pages. I said, “Fuck this. I have to shower, make dinner, clean Ozkar’s litter, read, make some phone calls and go to bed. I don’t have time for this.” I think that is more telling of my procrastination than taking the quiz. Here’s the link if you’re interested though: http://webapps2.ucalgary.ca/~steel//Procrastinus/

From 1.30-2.30 Monday morning I was “pimped” (the Cardiology Fellow on-call asked me several questions) concerning various cardiology issues. He was very cool and I really appreciate his teaching. I just wish I were smarter. Here was one set of questions:
Cardiology Fellow: So what is a normal QRS? What does that mean?
Me: It is less than 120 milliseconds and it is the ventricular depolarization.
Cardiology Fellow: So what does VT mean?
Me: There is ectopic pacing in the ventricles.
Cardiology Fellow: So how does it turn into a wide complex?
Me: Ummm…
Cardiology Fellow: Is it RV paced V Tach or LV? How can you tell?
Me: Ummm…
Cardiology Fellow: What if we paced this man? How could you tell a RV pacing v. a BiV pacing?
Me: Ummm…
Cardiology Fellow: Is a LV pacemaker in the ventricle?
Me: Yes…I mean no…Ummm…I’m not smart.

I’m not too smart, but I know those answers now. Anybody want to know them, because I can totally explain them now?

There have only been a handful of Michigan State basketball recruits who have really had me excited. Raymar Morgan was the most recent until Kalin Lucas. This kid dropped 21 of his 37 points in the second half of the PSL and Catholic League “Operation Friendship” game. (I know it’s a stupid name.) The Catholic league team has only won four times in the last 31 years and Lucas’ effort in the second half lead his team to the victory. He also had MSU shaved into the back of his head. As silly as that is it is way better than what Brent Pettway did the other day.

USAToday.com changed their web-page format. I like it.

Looking upon myself - Part I

2007-03-06T07:27:00.000-05:00

Don't get me wrong, I am not depressed. Maybe a tad bit angry, but not depressed.

Something hit me this morning as I started my workout at 4:50am. I don't know exactly why, or where it came from, but there it was right in front of my face, staring me down.

It occurred to me that I can't remember the last time I tried....at anything. Everything I do is half-assed, or less perhaps.

Once this hit me, (as I coasted through my workout), I tried to put it into perspective. Hmm.... where to start. Maybe the one glaringly obvious area. Relationships. I think my first real one ever, got perhaps 75% of my effort. It was perhaps my most successful to date, unsurprisingly. I think overall, my last one got 62% of my effort. Guess what? It would seem that it was the second most successful. Putting it into perspective though, it was perhaps the least successful, almost by design. The others scattered in there, especially throughout college got maybe (37% tops, probably more realistically 32% of my effort. It is no wonder why I felt so unfulfilled for so long.

Speaking of college, that is area number two. More generally, education period. I think the last time I tried in school was 6th or 7th grade. I got excellent grades throughout high school, until my senior year where I slipped a class or two out of apathy. College got maybe 35% of my effort. Don't get me wrong, I would classify my college GPA as mildly successful. I can only imagine what it could have been if effort would have been exerted, or where that would have led me. When I entered college, I was pre-law. After a year of that, (underclassman studies) , I dropped that and switched over to accounting. I have always said that it is because I didn't like the pre-law program, which is true, but I fear that is barely a part of the whole of the reason I switched.

Area number three: Friendships. I will admit that I am a terrible friend. I have no choice but to admit that. I would say that I am a half-assed friend to 95% of my friends or acquaintances. It is pretty sad, considering some of the great people that I know. I would like to make excuses up about time, convenience, and other lame things. I won't do that for now, since I already blew my cover and labeled them excuses.

There are also other areas that I would consider calling my effort lackluster. The largest remaining one is my health and body. This ranges from physical aspects to mental ones. Beyond that stand the opportunities I have had in my jobs, my move to Dallas, my lack of grad school interest or more accurately, initiative, my transparency as far as many family aspects are concerned, etc. etc.

I think that that amid this whole realization it is fair to say that there is one common theme. I would like to expand, but it is time to go to work, so that will have to take place in part II.

Working on a Sunday

2007-03-04T13:37:00.001-05:00

I decided to go to work today. I wanted to get a head start on next week. I think that next week might be the longest of my life. That is with only four work days, since I am taking Friday off.

I went to the gym when I woke up this morning. I showered and went in. I did about two hours worth of work when someone entered the office. I thought it was one of my coworkers. It wasn't. It was the cleaning guy.

I was just about ready to go home when he got there. I ended up staying an extra hour and a half talking to him. Maybe it was the lack of human contact that I had yesterday. The only time I physically spoke yesterday was for a combined two minutes on the phone to Chris and Caleb.

Anyways. This guy just wanted to talk Michigan State sports, especially basketball. We had a lovely discussion and reminisced on years past. It was enjoyable, although I didn't pay myself overtime for it. I wasn't sure what work code that would go under. After getting home, I thought that I should pay myself for it and make my time billale to the cleaning guy. I wonder how that would go over.

I am looking forward to the end of next week. I guess Emily, Brooke, and possibly AZ (he had better be) are coming up. Oh yeah, I think Chris is too (or should be) I don't know what the plan is for anyone, but hopefully we will work it out so there are an epic night or two.

It is time to go to Kroger when I decide what is for the family dinner tonight.

Hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend.

Bye Bye Bye, Bye Bly

2007-03-01T18:32:00.000-05:00

AZ must be super duper happy today, or tomorrow officially.

The Detroit Lions are shipping Cornerback Dre Bly to the Denver Broncos. in exchange, they get Running Back Tatum Bell, out of Oklahoma State (a school in which AZ enjoys) and Offensive Tackle George Foster, from Georgia. There is also a draft pick involved which is rumored to be a fifth rounder.

With a new running back and an offensive lineman, the Lions have opened up the number 2 pick in the draft. We should be hearing either: "With the second pick in the draft the Detroit Lions select......Calvin Johnson, wide receiver out of Georgia Tech", or "With the second pick in the draft the Detroit Lions select......JaMarcus Russell, quarterback out of LSU".

I know, selecting a wide receiver is insane. However, when a super-human being like Calvin Johnson is available, you take him. Besides, who wants to see Mike Furry as the number two receiver? Not me.

Officially

2007-02-28T06:39:00.001-05:00

I would officially like to retract my last post. At least Air Force lost as well.

Rationalize This

2007-02-27T08:11:00.000-05:00

Sorry folks, it is another sports post. Andy does medical posts because he is smart. I do sports posts because I am not. Andy can also do a better sports post than me, so regardless I feel like shit about The Alliance today.

Selection Sunday is looming. Michigan State finally has nothing to worry about, that is unless they totally bomb out their next two games and in the first round of the Big Ten tournament. Regardless, I think they would still make it, but that is my opinion.

The Spartans are firing on all cylinders. They are showing heart. They seem determined. They are everything that I have been waiting for out of them since the season began.

The analysts have made the Spartans pretty much a lock for the tournament. After dogging them all year for being too young and inexperienced, it finally seems like some are taking notice. Maybe it took College Gameday being in East Lansing when the #1 Badgers were visiting. I am fine with that. Where is the rest of the country though?

Looking at the new rankings for this week, where are the Spartans in the Top 25? Ummm..... I didn't see them either. Where is the love? I guess there is a little in the AP poll. They have the Spartans 26th. The coaches, only gave State 17 votes. 17 votes!

My case in point being Air Force. Air Force dropped their last two games, to TCU and UNLV. They are still in the Top 25 in both polls. Air Force has only played a few games against quality opponents. They lost by 15, to Duke. They also lost to BYU. I applaud the balanced attack of Air Force. I can only imagine what it would feel like to have four seniors all scoring in double figures. In the current Bracketology, Air Force is slated as a 5 seed in the South bracket.

Currently, Michigan State is unranked and is slated as a 10 seed in the West bracket. Sure we recently lost 4 in a row, but two of those were to Ohio State (one of which was by 2 points). If anybody wasn't aware of it, Ohio State is the best team in the nation. Duke recently lost four in a row to Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, and Florida State. They are currently ranked #17 and are slated to have a 5 seed in the West bracket. Michigan State rebounded with a HUGE win against Wisconsin and followed it up by a win against Indiana.

Where is the love people? Is it going to take a large road win against Michigan tonight? Done. Is it going to take another huge win against Wisconsin on the road on Saturday? Done again.

Go State!

RIP Cellular Telephone, Part II

2007-02-26T08:11:00.000-05:00

As you remember, I had troubles recently with my cellular telephone. I spent $250 to get a new one. It was an unpleasant experience, but I went ahead and did it. Afterall, how else can I satisfy my unhealthy texting addiction?

The new cell phone was purchased on the 19th of February. It officially died on the 24th of February.

I bought insurance on this phone, so financially, I could care less. Functionally, I could care a lot more. My thumbs are beginning to go through atrophy. I can feel them getting weaker and weaker every hour that passes. With insurance, you can not just go to a Verizon store, as I attempted to do Sunday. The phone will be shipped to me at work on Tuesday. I don't know if I will make it.

Of course, all of this is pretty much my fault. When Jimmy's Pub is involved by 1 in the afternoon, for a Spartans game that begins at 9, trouble is bound to be around the corner.

I started off slowly, but gradually sped up to a feverish pace. Kade and Miranda met Caleb, Gerard, and I at Jimmy's later in the afternoon. We tried to maintain like we hadn't been drinking all day. I think we were mildly successful.

We wanted to watch the game at BW3. We knew we had to go there early. So we did. Surprisingly we found a nice table with some other friends. It was downhill from there. My phone was sitting on the table, it fell on the ground. I think it broke. In a stupor, I ensured it was broke, thinking at the time that I should take full advantage of the insurance. (This was helped along in the back of my mind by the fact that one of the buttons was loose, and it bothered me from the beginning, when I got my new phone).

I watched the Spartans until halftime. This is when Caleb, Kade, Miranda, and I decided that it would be better to watch the second half of the game at home, on the couch, in HD. The idea sounds great!! It didn't happen that way.

I went to my car, which would have been a big mistake, except for the fact that I didn't have my keys. The safeguards against drunk driving were well into effect. I think at the time, I was too exhausted to remember this. I lied flat in my car, after getting in with the clicker. I promptly fell asleep. In the meantime, the others made it home safely.

I woke up around 1 and realized that I had been sleeping in my car. I realized that I had no keys, and really wished that I would have just went home with everyone else. I walked over to 7/11 to use the ATM. I figured $100 would get me home. (I am retarded). I then waited for a cab. I got into the cab with four other guys and told the driver where I would need to go. I sat down and took a long ride out to Chandler's Crossing. When the other four guys got out, the cab driver asked where I needed to go. He promptly told me he couldn't go all the way over there. I asked him if that was his job. He got annoyed. I got annoyed even more. He ended up driving me basically back to where he picked me up, swearing that he didn't have time to take me 4 miles away. I even offered him $20 to do so. He said it wasn't about the money. I pointed out that business was about money and that he basically was an idiot. I literally threw $5 at him, as he insisted that I didn't owe him anything.

I got out and sought out another cab. (By the way I only had a sweatshirt on).

The second cab said she couldn't go out to Lansing, she was doing runs from the Brody Complex to downtown only. I got annoyed.

The third and final cab driver basically told me I was an idiot for trying to get a cab to take me to the East Side of Lansing. He said it was a game night and it was too busy to go that way. Flabbergasted, I pondered what the City of East Lansing does to help prevent kids from drinking and driving. This is when I came to the realization that they do nothing. In fact, they prefer that kids drink and drive so they can have more revenue and their police officers can make their bonuses.

On a side note, the City of East Lansing is one of the worst run governments that I have ever seen. They are the epitome of hypocritical, saying they embrace their student population, and turning their backs on them for their residents. I wish they would realize that without the students, their town would be nothing more than a run down, shitty little city.

Sorry, I digress.

I started walking, thinking it was pretty cold just for a sweatshirt. Without a cellular telephone, I couldn't call any friends, or even attempt to call another cab. I walked by the 24/7 store at the corner of Grand River and Michigan Ave. I stopped in to see if any cabs ever stopped there. The two workers said no. I asked if I could call a cab. They handed me a phone book. I asked if I could use a phone. The reluctance was ridiculous. Finally they let me place a call. It was busy. I told them that and they replied that it would be busy until 3am. They promptly took the phone and phone book away from me. The one employee suggested I take CATA. (Although I don't even think they run that late, I tried to get some quarters for the bus. They wouldn't give me change even!

I knew I would just walk in the cold. I had exhausted my options.

Before I left, I muttered something to the employees about getting robbed and shot and killed. Thankfully that didn't happen, because I would have become a prime suspect.

I walked home. Everyone was asleep, as they should have been.

Sunday morning, I found out that MSU won. I was happy, and confused, a little mad at myself, and a little embarrassed.

I fought through the dumb dumbs and had a productive day.

RIP Saturn Ion

2007-02-26T07:40:00.000-05:00

So remember when I wrote about my car being in multi-organ dysfunction syndrome?

This morning the 2003 Saturn Ion succumbed to whatever insult initiated its decline. It didn’t start. It didn’t even turnover. I was stuck at the Meijer gas station across the street from my apartment.

Luckily Henry Ford messed up my schedule and didn’t have me scheduled to start the rotation until Thursday, so I’m not missing any days. I called the medical education director to say I was on my way up there to clarify this schedule error, but my car was septic and in MODS and is now dead. The schedule is corrected and now I start tomorrow…if I have a car that is alive.

I just got a new CD player with a five year warranty put in this past Friday.

Is this a good way to start the week?

The Common Cold: Treatment Options

2007-02-25T10:15:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately if you were like me you would be battling your third viral infection in as many months.

I was hit up with the cold at the end of November and early December. Then after only two shifts in January in the Emergency Department I caught the stomach flu. Now in February I have acquired the common cold again, despite my frantic hand washing, which is the most effective way to prevent the cold.

The cold and stomach flu are both caused by viruses, but not the same virus. The stomach flu, called viral gastroenteritis, can be due to a wide variety of viruses, but most commonly the Norwalk (formerly the noro-virus) and Rotavirus are the culprits. The common cold, diagnosed as a viral upper respiratory infection (URI), is caused by Coronavirus.

We all know the symptoms of a common cold; low grade fever, fatigue/malaise, rhinorrhea (runny nose), sore throat, productive or non-productive cough, sinus congestion, back aches, etc. All of these symptoms are somewhat non-specific, but in the proper setting, with adequate clinical experience and common physical exam findings the diagnosis of a viral URI is fairly easy and should be at the top of a differential diagnosis.

However, a physician must always think of what else could be causing these symptoms and develop a thorough differential diagnosis. An atypical pneumonia, such as that caused by mycoplasma, or a viral pneumonia may have similar presentation as the common cold. Strep throat, sinusitis and mononucleosis can also present in this manner. On a more serious, but less common level a differential could also include lymphoma or even HIV. Early HIV often presents with vague, cold-like symptoms.

Close to 95% of all URI are viral, so it is easy to dismiss many of these other diseases placed into the differential. The problem with viral infections, especially with the coronavirus, is they will not respond to antibiotics (which only target bacteria) and anti-viral medications are often expensive and ineffective. Moreover, even without treatment the common cold should dissipate after 7-10 days. Thus, supportive therapy and controlling symptoms is the only way to “treat” a viral URI.

So what treatments work? There are not a lot of evidence based clinical trials addressing the treatment of the common cold. Many physicians just rely on their clinical and personal experiences in treating this benign but annoying condition. One physician I worked with used what I termed the RFT treatment – rest, fluids and Tylenol. Another physician prescribed a medication that contained guaifenesin and pseudoephedrine to treat a viral URI. And another physician thought everything could potentially be pneumonia and prescribed one of the most expensive antibiotics on the market to anyone with fatigue and a cough. I don’t recommend the last treatment.

Here’s what I have developed by ripping off the name of some Emergency Department (ED) shotgun treatments. In the ED patients presenting with an altered mental status may receive a “coma cocktail” or if they have heartburn symptoms and an acute myocardial infarction can be ruled out very early, they may receive a “GI cocktail.” So I have come up with a “cold cocktail.”

Disclaimer – there is no randomized controlled clinical trial supporting this treatment. It is based on clinical experiences and has been shown CLINICALLY to be effective. If you believe you have a common cold, you may try this regimen, but if your symptoms worsen or do not improve over a week you should see a physician.

Andy’s Cold Cocktail:
1. Mucinex DM – this medication contains guaifenesin and dextromethorphan (DM). The guaifenesin is an expectorant and will loosen up the mucus production in the upper respiratory tract and the dextromethorphan will suppress the cough, which will help decrease the inflammation from continual paroxysms of coughing. (DM mechanism of action is much more complicated, but essentially that is what it does.)
2. Sudafed – pseudoephedrine is an alpha 1 agonist and therefore constricts blood vessels. If one has high blood pressure, this medication should not be used. However, if one is normotensive this medication will decrease a runny nose by constricting the vasculature in the nose.
3. Ibuprofen – any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) will work. I like naproxen over all the other NSAIDs. I take three 220 mg tablets to help with any aches and pains. This medication should be taken with food and avoided if you have a history of stomach ulcers. I prefer NSAIDs to acetaminophen because the latter also decreases inflammation and acetaminophen does not have anti-inflammatory actions. Any infection will cause some level of inflammation so I believe using a medication to decrease inflammation, if it can be tolerated, will be more efficacious than a medication that does not.
4. Rest – take the day off and let your body do some of the work to fight off this infection.
5. Fluids – with any infection the body will use all of its resources to fight it off and maintaining fluid homeostasis is always imperative.
6. Cough drops – this is purely symptomatic, but can temporarily alleviate the cough as well as some congestion.
7. Osteopathic manipulation – if I’m around or your physician is able to provide OMM it really does help. The sympathetic nervous system innervates the lungs at the thoracic vertebrae from T2-T9 and the head from T1-T4. Soft tissue techniques to these areas can help reduce the sympathetic overflow, which will decrease inflammation as well as suppress the cough, decrease nasal drainage and congestion. Also, cranial techniques to help with sinus drainage in the head and neck will alleviate many symptoms found in the common cold.

This is a very comprehensive treatment regimen. It has not been verified by multiple randomized controlled studies or via large-scale meta-analyses, but it has been very effective clinically. If you are unfortunate enough to fall ill to the common cold, try Andy’s Cold Cocktail in part or all of it. If it does not work or your symptoms do not improve see a physician who will be able to better address your symptomotology.

The New Way Rocked in an Old Way

2007-02-24T08:52:00.000-05:00

“So basically we’re sixties garage rock. How many bands do that?” drummer Matt Sawicki asked last night during The Wednesdees inaugural show.

Sawicki’s rhetorical question was right on. There are not a lot of bands playing sixties’ covers like The Wednesdees and even if there were, they would not play as well or be as entertaining as The Wednesdees were last night.

Pronounced the “winds – dees” (“like the way old people say it [Wednesday]”), the band is comprised of Sawicki on drums, Jason Barthlow on bass/backing vocals and Jacob Longton as the lead singer/guitarist.

The set opened with a rocking version of Stepping Stone by the Monkees and concluded with a crowd favorite Gloria by The Shadows of Knight. In between The Wednesdees put their own touches on Cinnamon Girl by Neil Young and Hey Baby from Dirty Dancing; the latter brought the crowd together yelling and singing, “Hey baby,” while the former moved some older couples to get up and dance. At one point an impressed, older bearded gentleman dropped $25 onto the stage.

The New Way Bar in Ferndale, Mi was the perfect venue for this young band to debut. It was filled with a large, diverse crowd and the sound of The Wednesdees translated very well in this environment. If one was hallucinating, or just sick from an upper respiratory infection, they may have thought they were back in the sixties when the music was humble, emotional and not manufactured for target audiences like today’s pop music.

The Wednesdees put their own signature touch on each song they played. Barthlow has only been playing the bass since November 2006, but you would not be able to tell after his performance last night. Longton’s Telecaster and overdrive through his Fender amp produced a sixties’ feel, but with a unique new twist. The vocals and mix were outstanding and Sawicki’s mini-drum solos at the end of some songs illustrated how talented he has become behind the traps.

It was a fun night filled with music from a time when music was great. Sawicki, Barthlow and Longton have created an entertaining and talented new band by recycling the excellent music from the sixties. The Wednesdees made each song their own and yet one knew exactly from where the song came. Hopefully The Wednesdees will rock another “Fridee” real soon.

The Wednesdees!

2007-02-23T08:46:00.000-05:00

The Wednesdees! Tonight!

The show is at The New Way Bar, 23130 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, Michigan 48220.

Rock n roll all right!

Whoopsy Daiseys

2007-02-21T14:38:00.000-05:00

Dear readers,

Apparently TheBlogAlliance has been suffering some technical difficulties. It worked on my screen, so I thought everything was ok. That is what I get for trying to show Spartan Pride.

It was pointed out how aesthetically displeasing it looks right now, so I will fix it when I get home.

At least it is legible for now.

Thank You,

Management

El Az Cancer? I Hope Not

2007-02-21T06:02:00.000-05:00

Oh little Stacy Q., when she doesn’t have anything to do. She comes to my house, but let’s keep that between me and you.

I think it would be creative if a Catholic gave up Catholicism for Lent. Would God be mad at this, or would he/she respect the creativity?

The weather has warmed to over 500% of what it was just over the weekend. The hint of spring has me excited. Last spring was not too eventful, but the spring in ’05 was outstanding. I’m hoping (and I have a feeling) this spring will be like ’05. Anyone want to have a pre-spring party?

I haven’t seen Kohler in ages. I haven’t seen Morgan in 1/2 ages. I hope they are both doing well.

So here’s my new pet peeve in basketball. I still hate it when a score is 1-0, but my new one is when a player flops on the defensive end but acts like the strongest man in the world on the offensive end. Take the douche-bag Alando Tucker for example. He’ll try to defend a player in the post, but if he gets touched he flies across the court. So I think, “Wow. He’s a weak pussy.” Then I realize he’s just a dork, because on the offensive side of the court he’ll drive to the hoop and get fouled, but make the shot and then flex as if he is the strongest man in the world. So on one end of the court he’s strong, on the other end he’s weak. Can’t have it both ways – either you are strong, or you are weak. If you act like both you’re an evil human being…well maybe not, but you are an idiot on the basketball court.

I still get emotional when Luke kills the Rancor in Return of the Jedi and I see the Rancor’s owner come in and cry because his pet was just murdered. I mean I’m happy Luke survived for the good of the galaxy and Jedi, but I don’t like to see animals die…even if they are going to eat someone…as long as that someone isn’t me and if it is I hope someone kills it.

If people had to skip instead of walk everywhere I bet there would be less angst and rage. It’s hard to hate something or someone when you’re skipping. Imagine someone in the Ku Klux Klan skipping somewhere in their dumb costumes. You probably would laugh at them because of their unbelievable stupidity, but also because they’re skipping.

Recently I was engaged in a conversation and the other person was able to relevantly incorporate cartographer into the discussion. That was fucking awesome.

Yesterday at the surgery journal club one of the articles concerned the use of albumin measurements as a prognostic factor in morbidity/mortality of gastric carcinoma, GC, (stomach cancer). The study was done in Mexico and the authors stated GC was the most common gastrointestinal cancer in Mexico. Everyone in the room was surprised and then a resident suggested it might be secondary to their diet. I thought, “Shit. El Azteco is gonna give me stomach cancer and to make matters worse I’ll probably get shoddy service.”

Watch the Points Keep Growing.

2007-02-20T21:50:00.000-05:00

I had just text messaged Andy, asking him where Drew was in the second half.

Neitzel then scored 11 straight for the Spartans. He was once again a Spartan hero and was elated to be just that.

"This is unbelievable, It is a chance for us to leave our legacy and our footprints on the program."

As I crawled around on the floor, with my down blanket draped over my head, I thought about just how long 3 minutes was.

I doubted these Spartans before, and I am sure I will doubt them again.

Tonight was special for Raymar, Drew, and the rest of the crew. Defense ruled, and a +14 rebound margin helped MSU overcome terrible fouls and spurts of turnovers. It seemed like MSU was so close, yet couldn't take over the lead.....until it counted.

MSU had never beaten a #1 team at home before. They were 0-16 in their history. For such a young and inexperienced team (in such desperate need for a big win) to do so is truly remarkable and unbelievable.

Seeing the kids rush the court was beautiful. Seeing tears in Izzo's eyes was touching. The phone calls to friends to all celebrate from afar was amazing.

The early block by Marquise Gray was one of the best I have seen. He was like a volleyball player spiking the ball. the crowd erupted.

The game ended up 64-55. Neitzel finished the night with 28 points in 36 minutes. Travis Walton added 13 points, 10 assists, and 7 rebounds, also in 36 minutes. (These included key back-to-back drives and layups). Raymar finished with 12 points and 8 rebounds.

Although I have a general dislike for the man, Bo Ryan made me laugh, just before speaking to the media in his post-game interview:

"If you start to chant 'overrated,' I'm leaving,"

Spartan Teams are Bound to Win...

2007-02-20T21:09:00.000-05:00

I pulled a muscle jumping and yelling.

It was worth it.

64-55. Nice.

Please.......

2007-02-20T18:54:00.000-05:00

Go STATE!!!

The Death of My Phone

2007-02-19T07:09:00.000-05:00

Everyone say goodbye, for my phone has gone away. It started as a glitch, turning the time upside down and making the screen blank and white for a short period of time. It progressed to the blank white screen all of the time.

It still has a little life in it, as it is still able to make and receive calls. Who talks on the phone anyways? Certainly not me. I can not access my phone book anyways. I also can not text message, which is my Achilles Heel. It will probably be a good thing to those of you who I frequently text message. There are a few, since I has 2200 text messages used last month.

I don't really want to spend another $250 or whatever outlandish price they want me to pay for a new phone. It would be under warranty, with a free replacement, but one month after I got it, I had a milk-spilling drunken incident causing it to get a little wet. Apparently, when you get it wet, there is a little indicator on the front cover that turns red, causing your warranty to become void. This does not make sense as there is no cause and effect of the two events, since they happened 8 months or so apart. Try talking cause and effect to a Verizon Wireless customer service person though. If it sounds like something they might have learned about through human development or even the very early years in school, their brains no longer have the capacity to function.

So, if you don't hear from me, this is probably why. Or, you never heard from me in the first place. Or, by the off chance, I suppose I could have decided I just don't like you anymore. In that case, it hurts me more than it hurts you. Or something.

Moldy Cheese Smells

2007-02-18T15:03:00.000-05:00

This morning when I got back from work I realized the only difference between my apartment and the dumpster outside of my apartment was last night I didn’t sleep in the dumpster.

Or did I?

I didn’t.

How long does it take for the week old, moldy wet cheese smell to dissipate?

What's in a Name?

2007-02-17T09:51:00.000-05:00

There can be a lot of things in a name. For example, take my middle name. It is dedication. I stayed at work until 6:30 last night. That may not seem like too much dedication to you, but if you know me, it is.

There are street names. Take Michigan Avenue. There are Michigan Avenues all over Michigan, simply because it is Michigan. There is nothing profound about that. Actually there is nothing profound about any of this. I saw on the news the other day that there have been proposals to change the name of the road that heads west, directly into the capital in Lansing. Apparently, people think it would be better to change the road name from Michigan Avenue to The Avenue of Michigan - Gateway to the Capitol. I don't think that makes any sense. Every business in Lansing located on Michigan Ave. would have to change all of their business cards, menus, brochures, and signs. Way to be commerce friendly proposal. Whatever, it is dumb. If that ended up happening before I am ready to move, I will move strictly because of that.

Finally, there is the name of drinks. Being the weekend, I thought it necessary to throw this one out there. Take my margarita. I called them margaritas, but they were more like large iced glasses of tequila (with a splash of sour and lime juice). It was enough to get me feeling good, and after my daily nerdy after-work interneting I relaxed and got ready to head to the bar by myself. Overall, I won $50 playing Keno. Michigan schools win, and I win.

The NBA rookie v. sophomore challenge was weirdly entertaining to watch. The sophomores, led by Chris Paul, Monta Ellis, and David Lee, crushed the rookies by 41 or so. There was no defense, except when Rudy Gay thought it was necessary to try to show off. He is a goaltender, cheater.

Go State today against Iowa. Can they make a Tournament push? Three weeks from tomorrow we will find out for sure.