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Thursday, December 02, 2010

Doug's Tavern Kan Jam Week 2

Just wanted to remind people that the Doug's Tavern Kan Jam League will resume this Sunday at 5 pm. If you already have a team see you then, if you do not have a team yet but want to sign up show up at Doug's Tavern around 4:30-4:45 and sign up. Cost is $50 for the 12 week league. Any questions feel free to contact me.

Week 1 recap courtesy of www.mattmclear.com :
The Doug's Tavern Kan Jam League got off to a nice start Sunday. 10 team's participated in the first week with some exciting action. Each team played 15 games, and we had 5 instant wins. Week 1 was sponsored by Obvious Signs and the winner of week 1 received a gift card. Week 1's winner was the tournament champion team of Nate Pierce and James Putman. They put up an impressive 14-1 week which included an overtime win.

Hopefully see you out there Sunday.

High School Soccer Team Skipping Playoffs

I am not sure what baffles me more in this article that I read about a high school team skipping the playoffs. Is it that a first year coach comes into a program, and decides that the team who is undefeated will not compete in playoffs. Or is it the fact that by the sounds of it this team would beat most college team's.

The high school is Montverde, which is an international boarding school. The premiere boarding school in the United States. This school gets kid's from all sort of other countries, and their reason for skipping playoffs is because they are more interested in developing players for college than trying to win a state title. Isn't playing for a title what it's all about in high school?

Their soccer coach is Mike Potempa, who was an assistant coach at Clemson University for four years, played on the US National 17, 18, 19, 20 and under teams, AND was drafted by the LA Galaxy in the MLS. Yes this is their HIGH SCHOOL coach.

As I keep reading the article I find out their basketball team has been doing the skipping playoffs thing for several years now. 35 of their former players earned college scholarships, and 2 are playing in the NBA. Those two players are 7' 1'' center Soloman Alabi who attended Florida State and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute of the Milwaukee Bucks.

Maybe because I came from an area where sports are not that big I can't comprehend. I mean they are big in the community but we rarely see the "best" player around do anything besides become an excellent bar room athletes. ( I don't consider myself the best athlete but I am one hell of a bar room athlete) I mean we have rare cases like Jimmy Howard and Rick Carlisle making a name for themselves. I think the key to their success though was getting out of here.

So maybe if you are reading this and you are from a big city with a lot of talent you are not impressed. If you are from anywhere near me than this has to get you thinking. I mean could you imagine playing vs a team that is filled with division 1 talent. A team that could most likely beat division 1 team's? I mean would it even be fun? I don't think so. I mean it would be fun at first I suppose playing people you know will or could make it big, but getting beat down by them seems like a waste of time. How can you get better from that?

I guess you could look at it the other way though. Look at it as a team that should have to play them in playoffs. You must be excited because you actually have a chance now. If you end up winning it all do you really feel like you are the state champ? Yes you won playoffs but you didn't beat the best team.

I would love to hear what other people think about this. So drop a comment.

Wednesday, December 01, 2010

Week 12 NFL Power Rankings

It's time for the weekly NFL Power Rankings brought to you by mattmclear.com. Let's not even waste any time, let's jump right to it.

1) Atlanta Falcons (9-2) (prev 1) No need to move them from the top spot until they lose. As long as Matt Ryan plays at home not sure they will lose.

2) New England Patriots (9-2) (prev #2) They win again but face a tough Jets team this week. Should be a good game.

3) NY Jets (9-2) (prev #4) They keep getting it done. HUGE AFC match-up this weekend. Let's see how good they really are.

4) Baltimore Ravevns (8-3)(prev. #5) They had a good win vs a good TB team. Big match-up vs the Steelers. Hoping for a good ole fashion Steelers beat down. We will see.

5) Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3) (prev. #3) Should have lost to the Bills so I dropped them. Should drop them more prolly. Win vs Baltimore has them climb again.

6) Chicago Bears (8-3) (prev #9) Played well vs Vick and the Eagles. D is for real only giving up 172 points this year, and when Cutler plays smart they look ok. Let's see if they can stay hot.

7) New Orleans Saints (8-3) (prev #8) Have to show the defending champs some love and respect that they could make it back to the "ship.

8) Green Bay Packers (7-4) (prev #7) Had to drop them but not far. They lost to a good Atlanta team, on the road. Rogers is good so never count them out.

9) Philadelphia Eagles (7-4) (prev #6) They lost to a good Bears team and maybe they fell a little far but you should beat Cutler if you want to stay towards the top 5.

Last spot and there are several deserving team's but since I can only pick one I went with...



10) San Diego Chargers ( 6-5) (prev. NR) They are on a 4 game winning streak and I don't think there are many team's that want to play Phillip Rivers when he is hot like this. With a home game vs Oakland I expect their streak to continue.

Honorable mentions:
New York Giants (7-4)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-4) (prev. #10)
KC Chiefs (7-4)
Indianapolis Colts (6-5)
Jacksonville Jaguars (6-5)
Miami Dolphins (6-5)
Houston Texans (5-6)
Oakland Raiders (5-6)
St Louis Rams (5-6)
Washington Redskins (5-6)
Tennessee Titans (5-6)
Seattle Seahawks (5-6)


And for the bottom feeders of the NFL

10) Minnesota Vikings (4-7) They are showing signs of life and Favre wants to go out ummm not on a stretcher?

9) Cleveland Browns (4-7) Beat some good teams, lost to some "bad" team's. When they "good" Browns show up they can be dangerous.

8) San Francisco 49er's (4-7) Still only a game back to make playoffs. Sad I know. Losing Gore will not help.

7) Buffalo Bills (2-9) Nobody circles the wagon like the Buffalo Bills. They continue to find a way to lose. Big shout out to Stevie Johnson for dropping that ball. Why so serious? Because you lost the game.

6) Denver Broncos (3-8) Usually good at home, but not last week. Good trade sending Hillis away for Brady Quinn.

5) Arizona Cardinals (3-8)2 games back to make playoffs and their QB will be a Coors Light commercial soon. At least something is looking up for him.

4) Dallas Cowboys (3-8) Just when they were streaking they ran into the defending champs and blew the game.

3) Detroit Lions (2-9) Some bright spots, some not so bright spots. That's what rebuilding is all about.

2) Cincinnati Bengals (2-9) 8 straight losses can't be good for moral.

1)Carolina Panthers (1-10) No surprise here. Maybe they will draft another QB or 3?


Well thanks for checking out this weeks edition of the NFL power rankings. Let me know what you think.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Week 11 NFL Power Rankings

Well it's time for another edition of the Week 11 NFL power rankings. The NFC took over the power rankings with 6 team's. A couple top ten team's fell to honorable mention status.

Alright let's do this...

1)Atlanta Falcons (8-2) (prev. #1) They are on a 4 game win streak and look pretty solid. Matt Ryan to Roddy White is dangerous. They play host to GB this weekend and should be good test to see how good they really are, again.

2)New England Patriots (8-2) (pre. #2) They beat Peyton which is not always easy to do. Their D isn't quite Super Bowl winning worthy but their offense is good, and personally I think better than they were with Moss. They play Thanksgiving Day vs the Lions. Expect them to be here next week unless Atlanta loses.

3)Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3) (prev. #4) I am putting them above the Jets because they should have lost a game in the last couple weeks to team's they on paper should beat easily. Plus Steelers destroyed a hot Raiders team. Big Ben looked good.

4)NY Jets (prev. #3) (8-2) They find ways to win games. When it looks like they are done and finally lose, they somehow fight back and get it done. Big thanks to the Steelers for letting Holmes go because he is good.

5)Baltimore Ravens (7-3) (prev. #5) They beat Carolina. They play a tough TB team at home so let's see how they do. Go TB.

6)Philadelphia Eagles (7-3)(prev. #6) I wanted to jump them up because they are playing well and beat a fast falling Giants team. But every other top 5 team won so had to leave them here. Vick is good but doesn't help Eli is not smart.

7)Green Bay Packers (7-3) (prev. #7) 4 game winning streaks are on the line this week vs Atlanta. Matt Ryan just doesn't lose at home, but could he this week? We will see.

8)New Orleans Saints (7-3)(prev. #10) 3 game winning streak and their D is playing well. We know their offense is good and they won again with not running game. Bush was supposed to be back but wasn't able to go. It's weird to say this but they will have a tough game Thanksgiving day vs Dallas.

9)Chicago Bears (7-3)(prev. NR) Their defense is a vintage Bears d. They have given up a league low 146 points this year. When Cutler doesn't throw the ball to the other team, they are good. They play a tough Eagles team in Philadelphia. A win here show's they are a NFC contender.

Last spot....

10)Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-3)(prev. NR) They are 7-3 and do what it takes to win. They are young but have beat some good teams. What's impressive is they are 4-1 on the road and 3-2 at home. The home win's will start to fall in place if they can keep winning on the road they have a chance to win the division believe it or not. A win in Baltimore this weekend would not only make me happy but would prove to people they could be for real.

Honorable Mentions
Indianapolis Colts (6-4)
Kansas City Chiefs (6-4)
NY Giants (6-4)
Jacksonville Jaguars (6-4)
San Diego Chargers (5-5)
Miami Dolphins (5-5)
Washington Redskins (5-5)
Oakland Raiders (5-5)
Tennessee Titans (5-5)
Seattle Seahawks (5-5)
Houston Texnans (4-6)

The bottom 10

10)Dalls Cowboys (3-7)(prev. #5) They are 2-0 with their new coach and are playing decent football. Tough one this weekend vs the Saints. This will show how good they really are.

9)Buffalo Bills (2-8) (prev. #4) Big jump comes with 2 wins. Yes a winning streak for the Buffalo Bills. They are going to lose this weekend and might drop, but they are playing decent football. Plus Cowboys and Bills (wow seeing those two team's together brings back days when they were good in super bowls) are only teams with winning streaks in bottom 10.

8)Cleveland Browns (3-7) (prev. #10) Two heart breaking loses for the Browns. Hillis is good. Not really to much else to say I guess.

7)San Francisco 49er's (3-7)(prev. #9) Put together a couple good previous weeks but fell last week. 3 wins and they are only 2 back and still alive. Man the NFC West sucks.

6)Denver Broncos (3-7) (prev. #6) Sometimes they show sign's of life, sometimes they show you why they are not good. Tim Tebow I don't like you therefore Denver I don't like you.

5)Minnesota Vikings (3-7) (prev. #8) Childress is gone now, maybe they will win? Favre do yourself a favor silver fox, RETIRE.

4)Detroit Lions (2-8) (prev. #2) Yes the lost again but even with Shaun Hill they are still a better team than the bottom 3.

3)Arizona Cardinals (3-7) (prev. #7) They are on a five game losing streak. They don't know who should be their QB or RB. I think they have a RB don't they? Not sure if they know.

2)Cincinnati Bengals (2-8)(prev. #3)Longest losing streak in the NFL and lost to the Bills after having a nice lead. They are not good.

No surprises here...

1)Carolina Panthers (1-9) (prev. #1) They are awful. They brought a stay at home dad to be their QB. Didn't work for him or them. Good luck Carolina. Get a win and I will move you up just because you won, I swear.


Thanks for checking out my week 11 NFL power rankings. Let me know what you think.


Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Prostitution In Hermon?

You usually hear about drugs, prostitution, murder, and other nasty crimes on the new's, but it rarely involves northern NY people. Drug's are slowly becoming a bigger and bigger issue up here and are the cause of the few murder's we have had. I have a feeling they were involved in one way or another in today's new's.

Here is the article courtesy of the Ogdensburg Journal

"HERMON - Two women were accused of performing sexual acts Saturday on a 75-year-old man in exchange for money and gifts, including cars and payments on furniture and utilities.

Tracy N. Surcey, 35, of 6258 Route 11, Lot 9, Canton, and Valerie Cleveland, 36, of 124 Main St., each were charged Tuesday with prostitution, a misdemeanor, St. Lawrence County sheriff's deputies said. Deputies declined to release the man's name.

The man reportedly offered each woman a used car, along with buying them furniture and paying their utilities, for having sex with him, deputies said.

Both women were arraigned in Canton Village Court and released under probation supervision. A protection order was issued for the man, who won't be charged, deputies said.

In January 2007, Ms. Cleveland was given a 1 1/2-to-3-year prison sentence on a third-degree criminal sexual act conviction for having a threesome involving a man and 16-year-old girl in April 2006."

So sorry to any of you local guys looking for a cheap prostitute, the two around here are going to jail.

Really though a 75 year old man? You hookers must have been hard up.

Curious to see what they look like? Well I wouldn't let you down.





To be honest I am kind of at a loss for words. Didn't know there were actually hookers up here. I thought they just lived in cities and all over Canada. Guess you learn something new everyday.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Crazy Asain Girl Pop-a-shot Champ?

I was checking out my twitter feed and Yahoo Sports posted a tweet.

"Video: Woman makes 128 shots in a row in pop-a-shot http://ow.ly/3aDaL"

I couldn't get the video to load due to my lovely network here at work. So I hit up youtube. I am not sure if it's the same video but it has to be. If not I am impressed with this one. Check it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TzikGXcjBo

There are a couple crazy things to me in this video.

1)She is the best I have seen at this old school arcade game. You have played it before most likely and those rims are unforgiving. They take a bounce you throw up your next shot they hit each other balls are flying around the arcade. But this Asian girl has played a time or two.

2)The guy standing to the left off camera walks away not impressed apparently after 14 seconds of watching her. He is either embarrassed because he just made 10 in a row or just not impressed with her skills. Either that or the dance revolution game finally had an opening and he's going for it.

3)2 seconds later after dance dance man walks bye a lady then comes out of the back room after apparently ripping a couple lines of coke. She must be a serious gamer. It must have been her dance revolution spot that opened up.

4)The whole time red hat man is stretching out. He needs to be limber and well stretched before apparently trying to beat her? She just made a couple hundred in a row with a score of 256. All the stretching in the world will not help you beat her. She was tweeted by Yahoo Sports (I think) you are just the weird dude that has to follow up after. It's like the QB that has to follow in Peyton Manning's shoes. Good luck buddy.

As impressed as I am for her sinking all those shots in a row according to the Yahoo article it is not the Guinness world record.

"The scariest thing about this clip is that this woman amazingly enough is not the world record holder for consecutive pop-a-shot baskets made in a minute. According to Guinness, that record belongs to a man named Jay Kletecka, who made 139 in a row a few years ago."

To see the record holder and my favorite part of you tube all the haters posts check that out here. (Worst of all he is a Browns fan, at least Cleveland has a pop a shot record holder)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z72Q4FBfLuM

If only Ogdensburg had an Arcade I would leave now and work on a Guinness world record. Damn.

Week 10 NFL Power Rankings

Well it's time again for the weekly edition of the NFL power rankings Matt McLear style. Things are going to be mixed up from the last because some team's looked good, and well some looked really bad. Here we go...

Top 10

1) Atlanta Falcons (7-2 prev. #3) They beat a solid Baltimore team and Matt Ryan has only lost once at home. They are starting to impress me. Still not sold on being Super Bowl contenders, but they are my #1 team in football right now. With a game vs a hit or miss Ram's team I expect them to be 8-2. Hope I don't jinx you.

2) New England Patriots (7-2 prev. #7) Beating a tough Steeler's team helps jump you up and make people forget you lost vs the Browns. Although the Browns have been impressive as of late. Brady is good, but when fired up, he's lights out.

3)New York Jet's (7-2 prev. #5) A win is a win. These guys are certainly not blowing people out, but they are finding ways to win. That's what good team's do. Another tough game this week vs a struggling Texans.

4)Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3 prev. #2) They lost to a good New England team and did not play well on either side of the ball. They will have to rebound vs the Raiders. Good team's win on the road and they are 4-1 when not at home. Oddly they are 2-2 at home, they won't lose again at home.

5)Baltimore Ravens (6-3 prev. #4) They played alright but lost to a tough Atlanta team. It was their first out of conference game so it will be interesting to see how the do playing another out of conference team in Carolina. I'm expecting them to dominate but I will be a Panthers fan come Sunday.

6)Philadelphia Eagles (6-3 prev. Not Ranked) They dominated the Redskins. Vick was unreal. The way they are playing on offense makes them a tough team to play. They are in the spotlight Sunday night vs the G-men who are coming off a tough loss to Dallas. We will see what both are made of and who will lead the division.

7)Green Bay Packers (6-3 prev. #8) They were on a bye and didn't lose. So that helped. They did get some rest and let some people who are banged up heal. They are on a 3 game win streak and travel to play Favre and the Vikings. I expect them to win and continue their hot streak with no running game. Expect them keep on moving up.

8)Indianapolis Colts (6-3 prev. #9) They won, that's all that matters. They got off to a nice start on the Bengals but let them stick around. Peyton is good but he needs a running game to help his passing game flourish. They play a tough New England team this weekend, should be exciting.

Two spots to go....

9) New York Giants (6-3 prev. #1) Funny how a week can change how you think about a team. The Giants are good but they have all the potential of losing a couple in a row like they always do. Fell to previously 1 win Cowboys and have to take on a tough and hot Eagles team Sunday night. With a win Sunday night expect them to rise. With a loss.... who know's.

The 10 spot is a tough spot. There are 2 or 3 team's that could easily be here. But the one I put here I thought about putting 8 or 9 so they win.

10)New Orleans Saints (6-3 prev. #6) They were on a bye week so it's tough to say how they will play after a week off. I expect them to be scary good. Should have Bush back, should be rested. If their defense plays like it has been last couple of weeks, good luck NFC. They play an Up and Down Seattle team at home so I expect them to keep on rolling. But hey never know, it's the NFL

Here is this week's honorable mentions:
Chicago Bears (6-3)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-3)
Oakland Raiders (5-4)
Tennessee Titans (5-4 prev. #10)
Kansas City Chiefs (5-4)
Jacksonville Jaguars (5-4)
Houston Texnas (4-5)
Miami Dolphins (5-4)
San Diego Chargers (4-5)
Seattle Seahawks (5-4)
St Louis Rams (4-5)
Washington Redskins (4-5)

Now for the bottom 10...

10)Cleveland Browns (3-6 prev. honorable mention) They are only bottom 10 because of their record. They have been playing well. With a win vs Jacksonville they will be out of bottom 10.

9)San Fransisco 49er's (3-6 prev #6?ish) They are on a nice little 2 game winning streak and are playing decent football with Troy Smith. Tough game vs TB this Sunday but a game they can win.

8)Minnesota Vikings (3-6 prev. # Honorable Mention) They fell here because they lost again. They are probably one of the best 3-6 team's on paper, but not on the field. Favre is hurt let the saga begin yet for another week. Plus he says this is it. Suuuuuuure.

7)Arizona Cardinals (3-6 prev #5) They are only here because they are 3-6. They are on a 4 game losing streak and play a KC team that needs a win. Let the losing streak continue? I think so.

6)Denver Broncos (3-6 prev #9) Not confident they are all that good. They did play really well vs KC but away from home in that thin mountain air, they struggle. A win vs SD Monday night will help them rise up from the bottom dwellers.

5)Dallas Cowboys (2-7 prev #1) They looked like a football team. They beat the NYG at home and deserve to get some love for that. Do I think they are back? No, but a nice win Sunday.

4)Buffalo Bills (1-8 prev #3) Finally got that win. They have been playing decent football all year losing close games vs good teams. Game vs Cincy this week could actually see a winning streak from this team.

3)Cincinnati Bengals (2-7 prev #8) They just keep losing. They played an OK 2nd half vs the Colts but if you can't win might as well get a reality show or two.

2)Detroit Lions (2-7 prev #10) I was convinced they were going to play good football and get some more wins. Then Stafford got hurt, again. Good luck fighting for the #1 pick. At least you are used to being a top pick in the draft.

And the worst team in the NFL....

1)Carolina Panthers (1-8 prev #2) They might be on their 3rd string QB Tony Pike, a rookie, replacing another rookie. Things are not looking good for them. I sure hope somehow though, they can beat the Ravens.


So there you have it. Let me know what you think and if you would rank anyone differently.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Kan Jam Tournament Today

Today will be the first annual Kan Jam tournament at Doug's Tavern. The tournament will be start at 5:30 but all team's must be registered and paid by 5:00. This will allow us enough time to set up the tournament. The fee is $20 a team. A portion of the money will go towards the winners and the rest will go towards funding the league. The league should start within a week or two. Hope to see everyone out. If you have any questions feel free to contact myself or Logan.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Happy Veteran's Day

Just wanted to thank all of the veteran's throughout the world today for all you have done. I couldn't live my life and do what I do if it wasn't for everything you have done. So thanks again and enjoy your day. If you are around Heuvelton tonight stop in either Doug's or Deerfield for a beer on me.

Tuesday, November 09, 2010

High School Football At It's Best and Worst

Sports is a big part of our culture so you figure it's probably not that hard to get on TV being an athlete. Try being a high school athlete or even younger and making national news. Sometimes though it's not always a good thing.

Let's start with the good thing though. Everyone loves hearing a good story. Well if you haven't caught the middle school football play heard around the world click here. (You can thank me later for catching you up with the times) This middle school coach not only put himself on the map but did his team and "star" quarterback. This kid will never have a problem getting a date to the middle school dance or the movies.

This play is so far beyond what has really ever been done, it just blows peoples mind. No wonder it made national news. The timing, the practice, the guts to call it are genius. I couldn't imagine even being able to come up with such an amazing play. Hat's off middle school coach Art Rodriguez for not only getting your 15 minutes of fame, but for providing your quarterback Jason Garza the most memorable moment probably of his life.

Now usually you don't hear of the plays that don't work, unless they are pretty bad. Well here is one of those cases. Yes a coach put his team, his "star" player and himself on the map, but not exactly the same affect as the play of the year nomination above.

Alright take a minute and check this video out so you know what I am talking about.

This play was used during a 2 pt conversion try. Clearly it didn't really have much of a chance to work because you can see flags raining before the ball is even put in play. I'm not really sure at what point of the game this is attempted or what the score was at that point. Sorry. Anyways...

The creativity factor is there. It kind of reminded me of the play back in the day of the basketball player getting on his knee's and barking. Remember that? Don't worry if you didn't I have your back. Click here to see what I am talking about.

Now I know the barking play is different and more similar as the first play because it worked and was used at a little more crucial time, but it was attempted to distract the players and I'm pretty sure it does, maybe a little. The referee's though were not fooled.

The player doing all the flips was the place kicker, and probably the only male cheerleader on his high school cheer-leading team. He will surely enjoy his 15 minutes of fame and will probably get into some college as a cheer-leader and maybe even go down in the Guinness Book of Records for most hand flips in an actual football game, not a time-out or halftime show.

To me the most interesting part of this play is what came of it. They were flagged obviously as you can see, but the player was ejected from the game, and so was the coach. I'm not sure why they would get ejected. I think the referee was just jealous a place kicker was more athletic then he will ever be.

The place kicker Cam Haas was ejected for excessive celebration. Is it really celebrating if you are not celebrating anything? As for the coach. It is reported from GoBlueRidge.net that coach Tim Pruitt "was banned because of an additional unsportsmanlike penalty assessed for an inappropriate comment from a Watauga assistant coach." Well I guess that one kind of makes sense.

All in all you have to love the creativity and the purity that high school sports still is. When you hear several reports of college athletes getting paid, and cheating hopefully it stays out of the high school game. In high school and most college's it's nice to see a game played where it's purely on emotion and desire to be the best, not to be the best to get paid the best.

Thanks for checking in. Would love to hear your feedback and comments.

Week 9 Power Rankings

Well week 9 has come and gone and with that it means it's time for my power rankings. Little bit of a mix-up this week with my #1 team falling the Cleveland?!?!?! Yes I said no Moss no problem's but clearly something is a problem. Look for them to lose again this Sunday night to the Steeler's. Alright here we go my top 10.

#1 The NY Football Giants (prev. #3)- They look good. Not the first time they have started off hot and flopped. Let's see if they can keep it going vs a god awful Dallas team or get jinxed my the #1 spot.

#2 Pittsburgh Steelers (prev. #2)- Offensive line got beat up last night, but their D is that good. Plus Big Ben is getting better every week. Big game vs Pat's Sunday night.

#3 Atlanta Falcons (prev. #7)- Time to show the dirty bird's some love. They are 6-2 and beat a good TB team. Matt Ryan is not too shabby and Turner can be a beast. Still not sold they are a Super Bowl contender.

#4 Baltimore Ravens (prev. #5)- Beat a pretty good Miami team this week. They are a legit threat to win the AFC North and make a playoff run. Although they have not played a NFC team yet and take on a tough Atlanta team this week it will be a good test.

#5 NY Jets (prev. #6)- They were down and battled back for a gritty win. Even though it was against a Lions team it still showed they have what it takes to get it done. Lions are a better team than most people think in my opinion. Thanks to his week 1 reverse of TD it cost my fantasy team some good points on a ruling that took away an Arian Foster TD.

#6 New Orleans Saints (prev. #9)- Everyone always talks about their offense. It's good now without a RB, but what's winning them games is their D. It's nasty right now. Getting back some RB's after their bye week they are going to be a tough game week in and week out. It's easy to see why they are reigning champs.

#7 New England Patriots (prev #1)- Maybe it's a little harsh but they got dominated vs the Cleveland Browns and have to play a tougher AFC North team in week 10, the Steeler's. A win will boost them up I promise Pat's fans.

#8 Green Bay Packers (prev. #10)- Destroyed the Cowboys to put together a nice 3 game winning streak heading into their bye week. They are playing well thanks to Aaron Rodgers. Little rest will do them well.

#9 Indianapolis Colts (prev. #4)- Lost to Michael Vick and the Eagles in a close game to fall to 5-3. Tough division, tough schedule and a running game that does not exist. They have Peyton Manning so will always be top 10.

#10 Tennessee Titans (prev. Not Ranked)- Defense is tough, offense just got better. They had a bye week and got Randy Moss. If Vince is healthy a three headed monster of him, Chris Johnson, and Randy Moss not to mention Nate Washington makes them someone I wouldn't want to play.

Honorable mentions:
Philadelphia Eagles
Oakland Raiders (yes the Raiders)
Kansas City Chiefs
San Diego Chargers
Chicago Bears
Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Teams that are not bad enough to be in 10 worst but not good enough to get honorable mentions.

Miami Dolphins
Houston Texans
Jacksonville Jaguars
Washington Redskins (can't believe that is still a football name)
Minnesota Vikings (not on the bandwagon don't worry)
Cleveland Browns



So with the good always comes the bad. Here they are, starting from best of the worst to the worst of the worst.

#10 Detriot Lions (prev #7)- Yes I know they lost again and only have two win's but they have been in almost every game with a different starting QB it seems every week. Not many people show them some love so I did this week.

#9 Denver Broncos (prev #4)- Bye week made it so they didn't lose and fall, but they are on the verge of getting worst. No running game doesn't help Orton any.

#8 Cincinnati Bengals (prev #9)- They didn't look good vs the Steeler's. I wasn't sure if it was because they played the Steeler's or because they just don't play well. Ochocinco is not happy and TO is. Things are weird and are going to get worst for the Bungles.

#7, #6, #5, #4 The NFC West- Little harsh? Maybe. But when Your best is 4-4 and worst is still in it at 2-6 you are not good. They will continue to beat up on each other and unfortunately someone from that division has to make playoffs. It's a shame I know, but rules are rules.

#3 Buffalo Bills (prev #2)- How can they lose and be 0-8 and move up? Well, because they could beat the other two team's. They have been in some close games vs some good team's the last couple of weeks. They will get at least 1 win.

#2 Carolina Panthers (prev #3)- They lost their "starter" Matt Moore for the year so things will rely on Jimmy Clausen. Things won't get much better. They can avoid being #1 if Cowboys continue to suck.

With that being said...

#1 Dallas Cowboys- Over paid, outplayed and probably on their way to some sort of reality show. This team is so screwed up it can't even remember to renew it's website. I should of tried to buy dallascowboys.com, damn. Who knows what will Jerry Jones will do next. He's in desperation/ plan for next year mode. Should be interesting.

Well thanks for checking out my power rankings. Let me know what you think.

Monday, November 08, 2010

Beernuts World On Twitter

Just wanted to let everyone out there know that beernutsworld is now on Twitter. You can check us out here. https://twitter.com/#!/beernutsworld

I would love to stay and chat but Steelers are on and up 10 with the ball. Boy do I love watching the Steelers play well. Check us out on Twitter.


PEACE

Friday, November 05, 2010

College Football All About the Benjamin's


Today's world is all about money. But it's a sad time when you have to start associating college sports with it. The biggest culprit? College Football.

I am not a NBA fan or a NCAA Football fan. The main reason? It's all about the money for them. NBA yeah I can understand these guys wanting a nice paycheck they are the best in the world at what they do. But NCAA football? Come on.

A lot of other sports are adapting with the times. NFL and MLB using instant replay for example. People were not happy with the idea at first but can you imagine what it would be like without it? It's like trying to picture your life without DVR. I mean there are even talks of expanding the replay now. Don't you think it's time maybe NCAA football changes?

My biggest hatred of NCAA football is because of the BCS system. If you don't know what it is Google it or simply leave now. I know I am not the only one who hates it but know who doesn't? College football executives. I mean this is a game where it's supposed to be about kids giving all they have to make it to the next level. A pure game that is played with passion not with passion to make money. But really it's all about college's making money, and kids making money.

Nebraska left the Big 12 for the Big Ten Network because of money. Texas stayed in the Big 12 because of money. The Pac-10 expanded, the WAC and Mountain West squabbled, and USC got sentenced to at least two years in NCAA jail, all because of money. All over today's news is Cam Newton, guess what it's about? Yup, money.

I know someone has to make money maybe I am bitter because I don't make much, but if the schools are going to make so much money off of these guys playing football why not pay them? If you made all this money for an employer you would expect something in return right? If not let me know I have a job for you. It pay's nothing.

Some people might argue that they get paid enough, they get a scholarship to go to school for playing football. Well i'm pretty sure that people who have good grades get funding for school and might even go for free. All they have to do is study and show up to class.

These student athletes have to not only put time in the classroom, library and everything else other students do. They have to put hours of time into being an athlete. Gym time, practice time, film study time. Yes for them sports comes first but they still have to maintain a GPA just like everyone else to stay in school.

You hear of certain players like I mentioned before that allegedly accepted cash while playing football. These guys have to pay for stuff and most of them don't come from money and can't get money. Yes they get a "free ride" but that ride doesn't include books, school supplies, entertainment, and everything else it costs to be a college student. Being a collegiate athlete takes up any spare time you have these kids can't go out and get a part time on top of everything else to make money to live. So why not pay them?

I could go on and on about this but I would rather stop here and put this up for conversation. Let's hear what you have to say. Even if you agree with me in paying them let me know. If you disagree I would love to hear why.

Thursday, November 04, 2010

Crosby Drops Gloves and the Moss Saga Continues

There are two stories this morning I wanted to talk about. So instead of doing two posts, why not just do one. It's like going green in the blog world. So if you are bored settle in your computer chair, grab a drink, crack the neck and get ready to read.

My poor Penguins are struggling. Fleury has been bad, Johnson had been good. Johnson was not so good last night. I didn't get a chance to catch the game last night because I was ballin it up "jack" ball style, but saw the box score and highlights. It was ugly.

Down 4-1 in the 2nd you could tell the frustration was building, not only from this game, but from the sloppy start they have gotten off to. 6-6-1 13 pts. Not a start a Stanley Cup Champion caliber team should get off to.

Puck drops for a face off then play stops camera goes down into the corner to check out the fight. It's something you don't see very often. Sid the Kid dropped the gloves for the 5th time and squared off with Stars defenseman Matt Niskanen.

Not only were fan's shocked by this, but Niskanen was to. Here is what he had to say "I never saw that coming,"

"We were up 4-1 and he was probably trying to get the team going. He asked me to go and we went.

"I didn't say a word to him all night. I wasn't on the ice with him all night. I made sure he really wanted it and we went. It happens."

"I think he probably picked me out,"

"Maybe I was the smallest guy out there. I don't know."

I mean I can see being frustrated and trying to make a point but you don't want your Captain, your star out there throwing punches or wearing them. I mean granted he won the fight but if he gets knocked out or injured because of it, where does that leave the Penguins? Continuing to spiral down the standings.

Hopefully it fires up the team and they get healthy and hot soon.

On to part II of this post, the Randy Moss Saga. So if you have to use the bathroom I recommend doing it now. It's not good to hold it they say.

Randy Moss is turning into the NFL version of Matt Stairs. The guy that keeps trying to find a "home" His newest home, the country music capital of the world, Tennessee.

Myself and a couple of buddies are taking side bets to how long he will be able to keep his mouth shut there. I mean the Titans better not bring in a Mom and Pop restaurant to cook some food because now that Randy Moss has money he isn't going to eat that crap.

How has Moss not teamed up with Ochocinco and TO to make the TOCHOSS reality show? If he did that maybe it would be enough to keep him from making his post game interviews his show. I mean the guy even has songs from them now.

In one of my other posts ( http://mattmclear.wordpress.com/2010/10/06/moss-back-to-the-vikings/) I spoke highly of the move Minnesota made to get him. How they would make a run to the playoffs, Super Bowl contenders. So I was wrong.

What does this do for the Titans? I am not going there again. I think this move will blow up in their face. He has to come in, learn another offense, work on chemistry with Kerry Collins and Vince Young because Young is beat up. Plus with Britt sidelined for 6-8 weeks I'm not sure it helps that much. He's good when he wants to be good. But when he is pouting like a 3 year old who wants the toy in the grocery store, he is useless.

So here are my predictions. Titans finish 8-8 and miss the playoffs. Moss finish's the year with them and then either get's released to FA or get's traded for a 4th round pick. He will be unhappy, make himself look like an idiot to the media and all of our lives will go on listening to months and months about will Favre retire or not, all while crowning the Steeler's super bowl champs.

Bold yes, logical yes, could it happen? Time will only tell.

Thanks for checking us out have a good thirsty Thursday.


PEACE

What's Been New

I haven't been posting much these days on the ole blogspot, but I've been busy. I've recently taken on a task of being a band "manager." I've also been really busy with fantasy football, watching football, running a madden league, and organizing a Kan Jam tournament and league. Not to mention working, working on the house, and getting stuff done for the wedding, well trying to. Plus I'm not proud of this, and don't want to admit this but.... I've been cheating on you blogspot. I'm sorry it's not you, it's me.

I have been playing around with mattmclear.wordpress.com for that last month or so trying to figure out what I like more. Really I only blog to kill time when I am bored. But I realized I have put a lot more time into this blog so I should go back to it and show it some love. Or maybe I will write a post and post it on both?

So here I am. I will work on a new post about something soon. But just wanted to let people know I am working on a Kenny Powers type comeback.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

My NYC Trip

So now that I am back and remembered that I have this blog that nobody checks I said ahhh let's write a post about my trip. Figure it will kill some time before lunch. So here we go.

So there I was...

Woke up around 5-5:30 Monday morning and headed to lovely Lowville, NY to pick up my buddy Tom. Not only is the trip from my place to Lowville in my opinion one of the most boring trips ever, doing it after opening Sunday of football after several beer's does not make it any better. After changing my radio station 1,005 times I finally arrived and took a leak petted a cat and hopped back into a car. Next stop Poughkeepsie.

After a couple of pit stops and about 4+ hours of driving we hit Poughkeepsie. Talked it up with the ticket guy who used to live in Pittsburgh and saw Clemente throw out a guy on a one hop from the outfield at first. Best play he has ever seen in baseball. Took another quick leak and on the train for a lovely 2 hours train ride to grand central.

Nothing exciting happened on the train so no need to talk about that. Made it to grand central got out and got some cell phone service and called up my buddy McLaughlin and he met up with us to show us the city. There just so happened to be a bar across the rode so to McFadden's we went. Had some delicious Smithwicks and some bar chips.I then was hit on by one of the owners who was some like 60 year old dude. Me getting hit on in the city +1. We then headed down to a bar called Jameson's that had a bartender from Slovakia. Had some more Smithwick's and a Jameson sandwich. It was a good chicken sandwich loaded with vegetables and bbq sauce. Homemade fries were good as well. Pretty sure the bartender was hitting on me again through her think accent. Me getting hit on in the city +2. After that we headed to another bar in trying to make our way to the Mets vs Pirates game. We stopped at another bar but can't exactly remember the name, I just know we had some Yuengling this time. Waiter was definitely gay but did not hit on me. Not a bad thing. Me getting hit on in the city +2.

We then headed to catch the subway to the ball game. Met up with another old friend and headed to the game. Nothing else really exciting happened on those lovely train rides so I'll move on.

We get to the park excited about getting in and getting my name on the scoreboard. I go to will call like I was told to do, yeah no tickets there waiting for me. Make a couple calls yeah no luck. Feeling like an ass I get pissed. I get into ticket services and tell them the situation about how I had tickets waiting for me because I am awesome and donated to Coaches Vs Cancer to get them, I drove 10 hours to get here, next thing you know we are directed to go to another section for our tickets. So we head there get patted down, get our ticket's BOOM, VIP status bitches.

We have our own private bar, bathrooms, restaurants (i was told we didn't eat) it was amazing scene. TV's everywhere. All this before we actually get to see our seat's. 11 row's off the field behind home plate. I feel important. So we head back up to the VIP area and grab some beers. Come to find out 7.50 a beer, a big reason I hate city life. Game was pretty good the amount of beer we drank was pretty expensive. Met's won in 10 in a walk-off hit so good for the home team, bad for the guy walking around in his Pirates hat and Pirates shirt.


So we catch another train or two and head back into some part of the city. Sorry for the lack of details but I have no clue about navigating the city. We ended up going to McLaughlins bar and had some beers and shots and finished watching some football. Little weird crowd there was kind of private party. I am not going to judge the people or say to much but I am pretty sure they did not love women. I am going to say me getting hit on in city is up to like +7 because of that party.

2:30ish rolls around I have been up for about 23 hours I'm beat. I decided to hear up to McLaughlins and pass out knowing we had to get up early and start the trek home. McLaughlin and Tom decide to hit up another bar. They went out and played some pool drank some beers played the guitar and sang with each other. I swear they were not part of the private part but a nice bromance date I guess. I get up at 7 try to wake Tom up and him and McLaughlin are dead to the world. So I hang out with the dog and cat for a bit and try again. I finally get Tom up he is out of it and looks awful. No glasses on his face. I say Tom where the hell are your glasses we have to go. I dunno dude. So I'm like whatever I go and take a leak and by my foot I see his glasses on the floor, next to the toilet, around a toilet plunger. Nasty. He puts em right on and we bounce. We finally catch a cab somehow and make it to the train and start the long venture home. After Tom wakes up from sleeping the whole train ride we get talking and come to find out my friends puked a lot. Tom apparently destroyed McLaughlin's bar's bathroom. He says sorry man. McLaughlin puked all over the street. Pretty sure Tom puked again at McLaughlin's house. He finally changed his puke covered shirt half way home just for the record. Made it home about 5:30 played some Madden and man did my bed feel nice.


All in all it was nice to see the game, nice to see old friends and nice to be home. City life isn't for me but I guess the country life isn't for everyone either.


The End

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

P90X Day 9-13

Day 9

Plyometrics I believe in somehow was the way to keep the devil in shape. It was tough but I kind of had fun with it. Good workout for sure. Still one of the toughest workouts of them all so get mentally prepared.

Day 10

Shoulders and Arms, Ab Ripper X
Good workout. I went with the AB Ripper X before the shoulders and arms workout this time. Still was not easy but did help me get warmed up for shoulders and arms. Resistance bands made it tough and i felt it that's for sure.

Day 11

Yoga X

I did not do Yoga X this time. I talked with a trainer from beachbody.com and they said it was ok if i swapped it with Stretch X. So I did some Stretch X and got completely shit faced drunk that day and night. You might be able to call that a setback in the workout, but i think it was a success. I still feel good.

Day 12

Legs and Back, Ab Ripper X

Again not a lot different from last week, still hurt, still burned, went by pretty fast. It was kind of nice knowing what was coming. Felt it a little more after drinking all night. Sweated it out and in my eyes no harm done.

Day 13

Kenpo X

This one gets you working. It's a lot of fun and almost wish it was twice a week it's that fun.

Day 14

Rest or Stretch X

Today is day 14 I plan on doing some Stretch X and then jam the shit out of Madden 11.

2 weeks down 11 more to go.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

P90X Day 8

Day 8 was a lot like Day 1. Day 7 was a rest or stretch X. I started doing stretch X but I felt my ADD kicking in and the fact I had a dinner with the future in-laws, and a new copy of Madden 11 I didn't make it. I tell you what though I felt good going into Day 8. It was Chest and back, plus ab ripper X. Workout was good and intense as always. Ab-ripper X kicked my ass as well. Have to tell you though I wish someone was video taping me because I had a Keystone Light unsmooth moment. i was using the resistance bands instead of doing pull-ups and the band came on done and snapped me across the chest. It hit me so hard i bled and have a Billy Fucillo HUUUUGE welt across my chest.

Very nice....

Well tonight is plyometrics in my opinion the hardest workout of them all. Not looking forward to it. Hey at least it's card night tonight.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

P90X Week 1

I figured well I have this blog, I don't usually post anything interesting, not sure if anyone reads it, but hell might as well try to make a post or two about my P90X experience. Most blogs out there or articles people read are most likely from someone who is doing it that was already in shape. I figured hell i am not in shape maybe people could read this and be like damn if this guy can do it maybe I can to. Also I can let people know what it's like going through the workouts and any tips or pointers I have. I think my pointers are probably more helpful than someone who is in shape and can do all those workouts barely breaking a sweat.I am a week into it and feeling pretty good. Only 12 more weeks to go.

Day 1 Classic workout
Chest and Back, plus Ab Ripper X

While going through it I'm not going to lie I was sore and tired. I tried my best to keep up with those guys, but they are animals. I did as many as i possibly could, met my goals, and know it was a good workout because I could barely lift my arms the next day. The ab ripper x was crazy. I physically could not do anymore about 11 minutes into it. I kept trying but my gut was like no0o0o0o0. Day 1 all in all went well. Better than expected. My tip would be don't be afraid to press the pause button, take a breather when you need it. It takes a while to do it all so give yourself about an hour and 40 minutes.

Day 2 – Plyometrics

This workout was the hardest of them all. This one really pushes you and makes it hurt. If you can get through this one alright then honestly the rest of the week is pretty simple. They are all hard but this one is the ass kicker. My suggestion is to get a towel, and drink plenty of water before and after. Not a lot else to say but just tough it out it's worth it they say.

Day 3 – Shoulders and Arms, Ab Ripper X

I enjoyed this workout a lot. I think it's mainly because after plyometrics it seemed a lot easier, well until you get to ab ripper X. Even though it was my second time it was still hard as hell. Not sure if it was slight fatigue from the day before, or if it is just simply that i am that far out of shape. I gutted through it and all in all a good day.

Day 4 – Yoga X

I will never make fun of anyone that does Yoga again. I did not enjoy myself, i am not flexible and not sure if I will ever be flexible. It was a great workout and I didn't know what to expect because I've never done, or really heard or cared about yoga. Great workout and didn't have to do ab-ripper X. I came into Yoga X thinking it was going to be really easy and next week day 4 I will not.

Day 5 – Legs and Back, Ab Ripper X

This one definitely got the legs and back going. I enjoyed this one a lot. Again not sure if it was because it followed the Yoga or what but it went by pretty fast and I was able to keep up with the P90Xer's in all of the drills. I surpassed almost every goal I had for every set. Very pleased after this workout.

Day 6 – Kenpo X

I had no idea what to expect going into this one. Didn't know what kenpo meant. I think it mean's fun. I think this could have been my favorite workout so far. It is alot of kicking and punching. I was starting to feel like Daniel LaRusso. I did notice pretty quickly I was not very flexible again. Hopefully this experience will help with that, if not I am fine with not being flexible. Also not sure if it was from the beer the night before or the workout itself but this one got me sweating the most i think. That and plyometrics. Make sure to get a towel for this one, and stretch. This one has me tight today.

Day 7 – Rest or X Stretch

I am going to try to do the X stretch today instead of the rest because I could use it. Not sure what it is really if it's all stretching or if there is some working out as well. It will test me more tonight doing it because Madden 11 comes out and I will be picking up my copy.


Any questions contact me or leave a comment. I would love to give pointers or get pointers.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Help Fight ALS






Click the here to help donate to Matt Russell for his run in memory of his mother in the 2010 Iron Man Lake Placid competition.

"100% of the donations will go to the ALS assoication to help support those affected by Lou Gehrig's Disease and to spread awareness of the urgency to find treatments and a cure. During the Ironman event I will also be racing with an ALS logo on my chest to help spread awareness. With your help, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of people affected by this disease." (Matt Russell)


Friday, June 25, 2010

Kan Jam League

If you haven't heard we have started our summer Kan Jam league. Contact me or go to http://mattmclear.com/Kan_Jam.html for details, standings and results.

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Thirsty Thursday

Just another lovely day in Northern New York. Supposed to get 8-12'' of snow followed by a couple of days of below zero temps. This after it was just 53 two days ago. Gotta love it.
Let's see what's new in the baseball world for today. Jose Contreras signed with the Phillie's for 1 year 1.5 million. Damon is still looking for a home. There was talk of him going to the Reds but then there was talk after that saying no go on the Reds. Who knows where he will end up. I will put money on it that he will not be on my team, the Pirates and I am glad of that. Let's see another report came in that Brandon Webb wants to test the FA market. John Smoltz might go with the Pedro philosophy and try to sign on with a team mid-year if the Met's do not make the 2 year old their 5th starter. Why couldn't my father be trying to play major league baseball at that age. Dodgers are showing some interest in Garrett Anderson for some reason. Rangers who have made some moves this off season are showing a fringe interest in Melvin Mora. Several team's are showing interest in Hisanori Takahashi (sorry if i spelled it wrong i am not great with foreign name spelling, and well spelling all together) The reported team's showing interest are Orioles, Dodgers, Mets, Red Sox, and Giants. Red Sox might as well since they already have translators there for some of their players. So if you are a Met fan would you rather have your team go after the 35 year old lefty from over sea's or the 42 year old Smoltz? Back to Phillie's news Lidge and Romero begin throwing. I read that so I am making you read it. Jamie Moyer says he will be ready for the first week. Redding signs with the Rockies and Winn signs with the Yankees. I am not that happy with Winn signing with the Yankees because he was always my go to FA snag in fantasy when I had someone go down. Now as a Yankee he won't be worth much because his playing time won't be very high i don't think.

Well have a wonderful Thirsty Thursday, I know I will.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Happy Hump Day

I know it's been awhile but believe it or not I've been a busy man. So if anyone out there is still checking this (which i don't think people did to begin with) I am talking to you. Of course I have been putting more time into www.mattmclear.com so feel free to check that out as well. If you are wondering there is not a lot new in my life since my last post. I am still fixing printers and wondering what I did in life to deserve such a wonderful job. (take it as you will sincerity or sarcasm) I hate the winter because of my lack of winter activities. I can't skate, snowboard, ski, snowmobile. So that leaves me with drinkings, video games, and gambling. In my spare time I have been trying to invent something to get me out of working for the rest of my life. As you can see in my comments above I have been very unsuccessful. My new idea in life was to try and make a successful app for the Iphone and Itouches. Did a little bit of reading and it seems a lot more difficult then I had imagined. So if there is any whizzes out there that can help me create an awesome app that can pay me a lot per week so i don't have to work I will definitely hook you up with some money for creating it. anyways...

A lot is going on with the world these days. Haiti had not only 1 crippling earthquake but had another one today. It is awful what that place is going through but it is nice to see so many people throughout the world donating time, money, and whatever else they can to help. I saw on the news of all these foster kids that were lucky enough to be sent over here and most were given a home. Unfortunately i have also seen on the news of several people that were not lucky enough to make it out and are either deceased or having to deal with dangerous people. The only question I ask is with so many problems in our country, our state, our community why are we giving so much to them when we could be helping people here? I know I may come across as an asshole but I mean there is a lot we can do here as well. Just something to think about.

The city of Ogdensburg was doing well with NHL player Jimmy Howard playing for the Detroit Red Wings and that other guy that is from here and has his own TV show. A lady here slept with Tiger Woods too? Life was good until the Governor came out yesterday and said it was planning on cutting 200+ jobs and closing a medium prison. The "city" of Ogdensburg is hurting enough and taking away that could really hurt. Throw in the fact that the bridge to Canada that brings in a lot of business is in desperate need of repairs. If the prison and the bridge go away for any time being that would crush that small city. But don't worry I'm sure several people will sign up for a petition on Facebook to help support it, what that actually does? I don't know.

Well pitchers and catchers report in less than a month and I'm turning a quarter century a little before that. Yeah that's about all I have to look forward to in the near future. So go on out to Doug's for some chicken wings it's wing night, and have a happy hump day. Remember don't be a fool, wrap your tool.