Music appreciation in every form.....

Last night I had a chance to observe the Penn State acapella group known as the Pennharmonics. They were accompanied by fellow acapella groups from the University of Pittsburgh and Rutgers University. While it has always been a lifelong goal of mine to be able to be a part of one of these singing chorals, I realize that my voice just isn't quite what they would be looking for lol. However, it is a musical form which is harmonious, eloquent, and really moves me in ways that are unique. I have a passion for the harmony, tone, and rhythm acapella groups can bring to audiences without the accompanyment of any outside instrumentals or digital recordings. I think what draws me to it is how just a group of people can turn silence into song with just the right pitch of voices over the right group of people. There is just something about how they can all hit a note in tune together that just sits well with me i guess. But acapella isn't the only form of music that should be appreciated. All musical art forms, whether concert band, jazz ensembles, or opera should be openly appreciated for the talents that the performers possess. Every genre has its ability to entrance people in the wonderful world of sound, and each individual's tastes should be widely accepted and respected by all. I hope one day that I am able to pursue my musical tastes in something similar to an acapella group, but for now I will sit back, enjoy, and watch as the talented musicians of the Pennharmonics take me into another world of harmony and peace......

Remembering the good times

It seems like just yesterday me and my friend Phil were making our way up to State College from Altoona in the fall of 2006 for our first ever PSU football game as students. We had a 12 pack of beer, a grill, a pack of hot dogs and buns and plastic silverware and plates. That was it. Today, 4 years later, we had 3 tents, 8 cars, 4 grills and enough food and drinks to feed the United States for a month. We had evolved, but along the way we made tons of memories and have plenty of stories to share forever. Like the time I did pushups in the field or when a lady tore her ACL dancing. No matter the memory, the simple fact that we made them and remembered them is what truly matters. Today when I stood in the stands for my 28th and final home game of my student career and sang the Penn State alma mater, it was hard not to get choked up. Not just because it was the last home football game as a student for me, but because I was a senior and it was almost time for me to move on. I have made tons of friends and even more memories in my 4 years at Penn State, and I can't wait to go out with a bang next semester. The point though is to live in the moment every day because time flies by faster every year it seems. The friends and memories you make in college should be the best experiences of your entire life. Don't let anyone or anything hold you back from doing or accomplishing what you want out of it. When it is finally your turn to walk the walk and wear the cap and gown, do so knowing that you these were the greatest four years of your life, and they should be. When you look back years from now and remember all the good times, you'll know that it couldn't have been any better, because you can say 'i was there and it was the greatest adventure ever'. So let the good times roll. I know I have.

tv program needs to get back to its roots and learn from others

The Office is funny. For 6 seasons it has brought dry humor and multiple character personalities together to create a hit sitcom that has captured millions of fans across the country though. However, the show is reaching a point(like all shows do at some point I presume, particularly sitcoms), where the storylines are advancing and the show just isn't as funny as it used to be. The premise of the show is based around everyday experiences in an office, but the last two seasons haven't reflected that very well as the writers advance characters and relationships in an effort to make up for an ostensible writer's block, as they say. While I am sure it is difficult to continually produce new storylines after 6 seasons, it is imperative and paramount that you do not deviate from the original structure of the program that brought you so much acclaimed success and accolades. Take a look at two very successful sitcoms that had incredible runs: Seinfeld and Everybody Loves Raymond. While having two very different backgrounds, they wrote their series the same way: good, quality humor every episode. Sure, you have to advance some story lines at some point, but that cannot consume your entire episode or series, because eventually you will lack creative humor and alienate all your loyal viewers. Consequently, those 2 shows were some of the longest running sitcoms in television history and were wildly successful, even by today's standards. While The Office has captured everyday life in a short 30-minute comedy sketch every Thursday night at 9pm, it is time for it to either return to what works for it or call it quits; because we all want to see it end in glory rather than not knowing when to quit.......that's what she said.

a reflection on college life at PSU

The recent death of fellow student Joe Dado should remind us of a few things. First, that none of us are invincible and that things can happen when you drink too much. I think we as college students tend to believe that because we are in fact college students that things like that just won't happen to us; we're too smart to get into trouble like that. Unfortunately it happens and we need to watch out for ourselves and each other at times. Secondly, that as upsetting as his death is for his friends and family, it is the ultimate punishment for lack of self-control and responsibility. Being a freshman at Penn State(and particularly UP), is an experience you will never forget. But this comes with great responsibility as well. What we should take away from this incident is that in the own the only person responsible for you is you. No one, not even your friends sometimes, are going to hold your hand through everything. You need to know when to either 1. stop drinking; 2. call a cab; or 3. get help from a friend to walk you home or take you to get medical assistance. It's just common sense. While his death saddens the community, Joe Dado unfortunately payed the ultimate price for irresponsibility. It is very difficult for me to write this and say that Joe's death is in any way his own fault, but sadly alot of it is. We should all remember to take care of ourselves and each other. This incident has thus created many negative externalities on the student community, including the Nuisance Gathering Ordinance proposed by the State College Borough Council and also harsh words from its members about Penn State's "binge drinking" problem. Let's be clear right now about one thing: there is no public policy they could ever put in place that will deter or even decrease the amount of drinking that happens at this university; it's just not viable or feasible in any way. There are just too many students to be able to enforce any sort of law. There is not enough law enforcement. Penn State's administration is not interested in curbing drinking as much as the borough council is either. If PSU's policies become too severe towards drinking, this may deter many applicants from coming here, meaning less tuition revenue for PSU. This is an example of the principal-agent problem. I was talking with one of my friends about this incident when it happened, and I told him that in about a month Joe Dado will be forgotten and everything will return to normal and everyone will continue drinking and partying and having fun like usual; sure enough, that was the case. By now, everyone forgets about Joe Dado unless you see it in the paper. Why? Because frankly, and unfortunately, unless your life was directly affected, no one honestly cares. People look upon this incident and say 'ahh he got drunk and unfortunately fell and died. But I didn't know him and it didn't happen to me, he's just a freshman, time to move on.' This is a very unfortuante attitude to have, but the truth though is that it's the truth. Everyone has forgotten about Joe Dado and moved on and continued life, and in some respects that is the right thing to do, to move on. The world can't stop because of one incident. Frankly, I'm surprised more incidents like this don't happen here, with 40000 students, and on home football weekends even more than that. Maybe that is an ironic testament to our student body, who knows. The State College Borough Council wants to curb binge drinking, but the only change that could ever come about is if the students decide to enact it themselves. Face the facts council members: we're 40000 strong, we have very few incidents for as large as we are, and if residents of the community are upset at that, then move. You knew what you were getting into when you moved here and if you don't like it, you have the freedom to leave. Penn State will always be here. Drinking will always be here. Even unfortunate incidents like Joe Dado's death will never persuade students to cut back on drinking; anyone who was downtown on Halloween can recognize that. There is really nothing that can be done. College students like to drink. Penn State has 40000 students and is a great facilitator for that. It will never, ever change. 50 years from now Penn State will be the same. If the borough council isn't happy with it, then maybe they should take their complaints to another borough, because PSU isn't going anywhere, neither is drinking, and neither are the students.

What keeps us going everyday?

If you're a realist, its pretty easy to see that the world today is more full of bad than good, evil than pride, failure than success, pessimism than optimism. So I guess the real question is what motivates us to wake up every day and keep at it, again and again? In the face of adversity, tribulations, stress, anger, sorrow, grief and every other negative connotation out there, why are we so driven? The answer is nothing tangible, because tangible things have a price, and what we run off of doesn't. The answer is faith, hope, and a dream. For so many of us life has thrown enough curveballs to last 100 lifetimes. Life isn't easy, but there are times when all of it culminates in something great. Why do we get up everyday and go to class and spend hours studying(or trying to study lol) and worry about stress about careers, tests, family, friends, relationships, GPAs, health and fitness, and everything else? For simplicity's sake, it boils down to faith and hope and a dream that tomorrow will be a better day and bring something great. We study for hours and hours and stress over tests in the hope that we will end up doing something in life we absolutely love(and be successful doing it). We do it because we want to make a difference in the world we live in, no matter what that may be. We have faith that all of our efforts will reward us in ways that don't have a tangible meaning, but an intangible one. We have hope that someday, just someday, things will just be great. For some of us this happens, for some it doesn't. With this in mind, why try at all? Because no matter how big the odds are stacked against you, no matter the adversity, no matter how many people tell you it cant be done, no matter how impossible it seems, there is always hope. Hope springs from eternal faith, but faith in what? A higher being, a dream, a goal, a friend; but nevertheless a faith in something. If there wasn't any faith, there would be no hope. We all believe in something. We all believe that things are worth fighting for. So we continue down life's path with purpose because what we want is worth fighting for, whatever that may be; a job, a dream, a person. All of us have hope that tomorrow will be better than today. All of us have faith in the fact that in the end we will end up achieving what we have been trying for because the intangible feelings of achievement, success, pride, love, passion, and good are infinitely valuable for our lives. This is why we keep going everyday. For the hope that what we are doing is right and will make the world a better place. To improve our own lives and the lives of others. We believe that when we go to sleep at night we will know that there is some hope, no matter how small, that tomorrow things will just be......good. That faith-driven belief means that we should never give up on what we want to achieve. The results, as I can happily attest to, were exactly as I dreamed. Hope, Faith, and a Dream: it's what we all have, what we all want, and what we all know, that if we work hard enough, we can achieve. I hope tomorrow is better than today. 10 years ago I knew that my parents might not make it work with each other, but they did. 5 years ago I didn't know whether my Dad and I would ever talk again, but we did. 4 years ago I didn't know whether or not I'd get into a good college, but I did. 3 years ago I didn't believe I would ever recover from my first semester of college, a 2.82, but I did. 1 year ago I didn't know whether I would ever find someone who saw the good in me, but I did. One month ago I didnt know whether or not that the one person I found could ever have that faith in me to believe who I was and what I wanted, but I did. And one day ago I didn't know whether or not I would ever be able to work hard enough in school to get to where I wanted to be..........imagine what I "won't know" tomorrow. Only when you can see the invisible can you achieve the seemingly impossible. So to life, I'll see you tomorrow morning, in hopefully a better world than today.

PSU VS. EASTERN ILLINOIS

Well, here we are again. Another home football game against another boring opponent. While Eastern Illinois comes in this Saturday with a 4-1 record and a #25 ranking, that ranking is in the FCS, a mediocre set of teams. Once again, regardless of the outcome of the game, Penn State will be unable to prove its worth in the national spotlight. Their 4 wins have come against Akron, Syracuse, Temple, and a squandering Illinois team that is probably as bad as those first 3 teams. With another weak non-conference opponent, what can we really expect to see out of our team? How can we judge our worth? The answer is we can't. The truth of the matter is that we infact DO know how good our team is: reflect on the Iowa game. A team that was very beatable but went up against a PSU team that is, I hate to say it, just average. Whether or not we totally blowout EIU tomorrow is irrelevant as it proves nothing in the grand scheme of things. The coming weeks will tell how improved we are since the Iowa loss 2 weeks ago. My opinion is that we will beat the teams we should and lose to those we should lose to. After all is said and done, Penn State will end up 8-4 and make it to an average bowl; status quo for this team in this decade. While EIU is not a great rival, Penn State should not overlook them. However, after a big moral victory over Illinois, I can't imagine Eastern Illinois making it much of a contest. For The Glory....


Penn State- 45 Eastern Illinois- 10

PSU vs. Temple

The last hurdle before Big Ten action looms tomorrow at Beaver Stadium. With lackluster performances against Akron and Syracuse, PSU and its offensive line are looking to rebound before heading into Big Ten action against Iowa next week. The matchup shouldn't prove difficult as Temple is just 10-27 in its last four seasons. With the O-line starting to gel hopefully, Temple should be a good warmup for Clark, Royster, the wideouts and the O-line for next week's tough battle against Iowa. Look for PSU to try to run the ball more and get as many good snaps in as possible. 3-0 for State.

PSU- 38 Temple- 7

getting away from your motto, and coming back to it...

It's all well and good to have a favorite quote or phrase. We as a society like to our define our individual lives by phrases, which is ironic as by trying to be unique individuals we use OTHER people's quotes to define our own lives. But, nevertheless, this is what we do. For whatever reason or another we feel drawn to give our lives a quotable foundation, some verbal meaning so we know who we are and so does everyone else. I guess if I had to pick one it would be LIVESTRONG. Ever since I saw Lance Armstrong climb the Pyrenees back in 2003, I was hooked. He was a true champion, a true survivor, and lived life to the fullest every day, whether on the bike or with his kids. He was the man that I hoped I would become. When I was younger I was the jokester; now at age 21 I'm the serious guy who lives by a schedule and laughs only at tv programs. LIVESTRONG. It really is all about balance. Its somehow having fun and accomplishing goals, all in one breath. Its about laughing, crying, smiling, frowning, rejoicing, mourning, and everything in between. Its about staying up late with best friends and putting in that extra hour of studying. Its about being mature but not taking life or yourself too seriously. Ive been to both extremes, and while I would say the jokester side is more fun, its the balance that really completes your life. Why do we as a society tend to sometimes not follow our quotes that we swear we live by? I don't have an exact answer, but all I know is that maybe we're afraid of failure, afraid of change, or just need a helping hand to get there or to tell us where to go. Maybe we need someone in our lives who IS who we want to be to see the light. Whatever the reason, my light has lit up and I've seen it finally. Up until this point, LIVESTRONG for me has just been a formality, but it shouldn't be. Why waste your life away wasting life away? Go out and party hard, laugh with friends, love family and people close to you, work hard, accomplish life goals, be successful, reach for the stars and don't stop reaching til you grab one. Show your emotion, good or bad. Put yourself out there. Make friends, make enemies, just make them. Leave your mark on this world. When its your time, dont ask yourself if you did everything you wanted to, but instead ask yourself "was it the greatest adventure ever?", and "Did I live up to my life motto?" Because in the end, the memories and the people are the only things you will take with you. So whatever your life's motto is, live up to it, but in the end just be yourself. Love people, love life. Life is too short to not show passion for living. When you look back years from now, when the high school and college years have long been passed by, what will you say? What will you think? Don't overlook anyone. Everyone affects your life in some way, but only those that truly matter will be remembered. Some will open your eyes up. No one you meet will be perfect, but just accept the good qualities in them. Don't try to change anyone, because if you don't like them for who they are, then they aren't worth it, but allow room for adjustment. Whew, that was alot of stuff. And imagine, all of that was inspired by a single person. Never, ever give up. When the weight of the world gets you down, remember the people and intangibles that got you to where you are..............So what does this all mean? Does it even mean anything? Maybe not to you, but to me it does. But I believe you all will get it because I feel I'm just voicing what you all are thinking. So what are you waiting for? Get out there! Enjoy it before its gone. Love your friends, partners, family, and most importantly life itself. They say that when life gives you lemons you should make lemonade. But I think that you should try to find someone whose life has given them vodka, and have a party. Not necessarily drinking, but you know what I mean. Live. Laugh. Love. That's a quote I've never liked or maybe never understood until now. I get it. I'll do it. Ill be a better man because of it. So from now on let's all live up to our life's mottos, and really mean it. LIVESTRONG. Welcome to life.

Week 1: STILLERS VS. TITANS

FINALLY! The NFL is back after a 7-month hiatus. Tomorrow night kicks off the NFL season, and per tradition, will feature the Super Bowl champs, which of course is the Pittsburgh Steelers. They will square off against the 2008 AFC South champs, the Tennessee Titans. The last time these two teams met was the end of the 2008 season, where the Titans took it to the Steelers and afterward, Titans LB Keith Bullock stepped on the Terrible Towel. An AFC Championship matchup seemed inevitable with them and that revenge would be had for that awful deed. However, the Ravens eliminated them in a divisional game and the Steelers never got their shot. Now, in front of the entire nation on a Thursday night, it is finally time. The Steelers have returned most of their team and will be looking to repeat to make it 3 SB's in 5 seasons. They do have some pitfalls though however, as they have the inevitable bulls-eye target on their backs and have a few weaknesses schematically. The neutralizer though will be Mike Tomlin, who was committed to the 2009 season only a week after winning the Super Bowl. He keeps the team focused and hungry and will have his squad ready for the opener without a doubt. The Titans are good, but the Steelers will be better.
Steelers-24 Titans-13

Here is a preview of the 2009 Pittsburgh Steelers team:

-Ben Roethlisberger: After proving SB 40 was no fluke, Big Ben is back with avengence. He is clearly a top 5 NFL QB and will be ready to showcase his physical and mental prowess tomorrow night. Good news: his alleged "rape victim" has dropped her civil suit. Time to focus on sticking it in the end zone now, in football terms.
-RBs: Willie Parker will anchor the backfield, but nagging injuries may hamper his progress. BUT, Rashard Mendenhall has returned after his shoulder injury which kept him out of the entire 2008 season. Those 2 superstar talents, along with diesel engine Mewelde Moore, should prove troublesome to opposing defenses who have weak D-lines.
-WRs: Losing playmaker Nate Washington hurts, but hey! we have Limas Sweed. Okay that was a joke, but Sweed has indeed looked better in preseason, although I am not convinced of his talents. Santonio Holmes will be their deep threat and reliable Hines Ward, their go-to man. Third rounder Mike Wallace looks like a real potential as well, so no worries with this crew.
-OL: This is one of their weak points for sure. After the loss of Alan Faneca and Marvel Smith, things have been shaky for this group. Max Starks and Trai Essex will man the tackle positions, neither of whom are all-star talents by any means, as they have shown previously. Justin Hartwig will be back at center, consistently good but he's no Jeff Hartings. Then again, who is? Chris Kemeoatu and Darnell Stapleton return as guards, but with Stapleton's play in question due to an injury, Kemeoatu is the lone veteran on the line. If teams want to beat Pittsburgh, beat the line. Protecting Ben may be an issue again this year.
FB/TE: Rookie Frank Summers out of UNLV may see some time as a lead blocker for Parker and Mendenhall, but Mewelde Moore may seem most of the 3rd down back/FB action. Miller and Spaeth both return as big TE threats, another passing option that, in my opinion, gets underused tremendously on this team. Every pass play to Spaeth and Miller connects, everytime. But hey, what do I know?
DL: What the Burgh is infamous for: run-stoppin. Casey Hampton requires two men, and Keisel and Smith are talented enough and quick enough to pressure the opposing QB on every down, every possession. Word has it to that Ziggy Hood is a beast and may see a good amount of playing time, spelling Smith and Keisel, and possibly even Hampton? Wow.
LB: My favorite part of the Pittsburgh Steeler tradition. Gone are the days of Foote, Farrior, Haggans, and Porter. But in its place remains Farrior, the team leader, and my favorite Steelers player by far. His consistency, hard work, dedication, and talent will complement the likes of James Harrison, Lawrence Timmons and Lamar Woodley to create possibly the greatest 3-4 linebacking core ever assembled. Sack city this season for sure.
DB's: Every year I say we need to draft a DB, particularly a corner, in the first round but it never happens. The Steelers draft who is best on the board, not by position. This year's corners are Ike Taylor(who I hate and my dad loves, agree to disagree I guess) and William Gay! Finally, they listened to me for once. Deshea Townsend will see spotty action as he is a grissled veteran of 34 and can still play smart, but unfortunately not fast. Polamalu and Clark will man the safety positions, with Tyrone Carter adding to the depth there.
K: Hopefully Jeff Reed doesnt dye his hair or get a mohawk or something else ridiculous. If he does, Pompeani better do it again.
P: Daniel Sepulveda is back! After tearing his ACL punting is training camp last season(who knows how that happens), he is ready to help out the team, who had a terrible punting average last season. Sepulveda is the only two time winner of the Ray Guy Award in NCAA history, the award for best punter.

Another steel city team in the record books: for the wrong reason....

When the Pittsburgh Pirates lost to the Chicago Cubs on Monday, they set a new precedent, but not in a good way. Unlike the wild success the city's pro teams have had in the last 5 years(2 Super Bowls and a Stanley Cup), the Pirates have been a thorn in the city's side. With Monday's loss, the Pirates guaranteed another losing season, which makes it 17 straight; the longest consecutive season losing streak ever acheived in any of the 4 major pro sports, EVER. The Pirates last winning season was in 1992 when Barry Bonds still donned a bucos jersey. To put it into perspective for myself and others of our generation, I was 4 years old. Since then, the Bucs and their management/ownership have shown a lack of commitment to winning. To have a losing record for 17 straight seasons takes dedication, commitment; you have to be trying to lose at that point. You are NOT committed to winning at this point. Even bad teams get lucky every once in a while, but losing that many in a row is inexcusable in an era of salary caps and professional scouting. Pirates management keeps repeating the same old adage over and over, that their farm league talent is up and coming and that the Pirates will be a championship team in a few years. Yea, well, they said that 17 years ago too. Owners could care less about the team as long as money is still flowing into the team from fans and sponsors, but now that may be in jeopardy. Many season ticket holders have phoned in to Bob Pompeani's nightly sports call and told him that they are season ticket holders and are fed up and are NOT renewing next season. This will ultimately cripple management and force them to go out and build a team. Trading away all your star talents that never amount to anything is not the answer. Only 2 of the 9 starting players in the Pirates lineup today were with the team in April. There are no words to describe that. With that said, like I stated previously, management is not committed to winning, just committed to making money, and even that now might prove futile. And it's not like we are talking about a team that is finishing 75-87 or 78-84 every season, just barely under .500. No, instead it is more like 60-102 consistently. This season currently they are 54-83, 30 games under .500, 27.5 games behind the division leader, and have lost 11 out of the last 13, and last night gave up 7 runs in the first inning and allowed the Cubs to start the game with 8 consecutive hits, which tied a 19-year old MLB record. It is truly sad since the city and the surrounding areas are such ardent supporters of their teams, win or lose. I am not a particular fan of baseball and could care less about the Pirates, whether they lose every game or win the World Series. Still, though, no western PA sports fan wants to see any of their teams lose. The city has invested alot of time and effort, and mainly money, to support the Pirates. The stadium is beautiful and Pittsburgh fans are the best in the world. The ingredients are there but management is letting them spoil. I go to a game every few years, and last month I went to one with my girlfriend. It was a Tuesday night and they were playing the Brewers. They miraculously won, 5-2, and it was a good night. The downside though is that there were barely over 12,000 fans there. Well, the ticket sales were over 12,000, actual attendence seemed to me to be well under 10K as I looked around that night. While I'm glad to see a win in a beautiful ballpark, I was saddened by the loss of interest. While I am not a big fan of baseball, I know many 'Burghers are, and their lack-luster attendance doesn't bode well for the team. If this continues, Pittsburgh may very well lose their franchise, which wouldn't surprise me at all. In the end, bull-headed management will keep trading away their best players for prospects in order to save money on the cap, make more money for themselves, and disappoint their fans. It is all okay to them as long as the fans keep coming to the games. But with many season ticket holders calling it quits, that strategy may have to change or people will really start listening to the 7th inning stretch and saying "I don't care if I ever get back".

PSU VS. AKRON

Tomorrow's matchup versus Akron will most likely prove to be the most difficult non-conference game PSU has all season. With an entire complement of returning wideouts, offensive line, and 4-year starting quarterback, Akron has many threats which could cause some disturbances in the entirely new PSU secondary. Akron's running game however will be limited as their starter has been sidelined with an injury and the second string will take his place. Overall, however, I feel PSU will be up to the task and their offensive and defensive potency will prove overwhelming for the Zips. While PSU's secondary and offensive line may show some weaknesses at times, State will roll fairly easily over Akron in its bid to repeat as Big Ten champs; a feat they have never accomplished before. History in the making? Hopefully.

PSU-45 Akron-17

Drinking away our recession woes? Not really...

Cordial and liquor sales are proving to be non-resistant to the economic recession, as sales of Absolut, the #2 vodka seller by volume in the US, posted a 6% loss year-over-year as consumers downgrade to cheaper brands. Smirnoff, the #1 brand of vodka by sales volume, however, increased its sales by 1%. Grey Goose, Skyy, and Svedka rounded out the top 5 in US sales. The difference between 1 and 2 comes down to pricing essentially. As cordials and liquors are discretionary commodities, consumers will look for the most bang for their buck, as is most evident with the college community, as Vladimir and Banker's Club are common choices as a means of conserving what little cash they may have. Advertising also plays a major role as some consumers find the sophisticated commercials off-putting and continue to resort to cheaper brands. If Absolut and others are looking to increase profit margins and market share they must find a way to recalculate their pricing models and advertising avenues. Until the recession subsides, consumers will continue to rely on cheaper brands to meet their discretionary needs.

2009 Tour De France post-race wrap-up.

Well another year and another tour has passed through Paris and been written into the history books. I am sure though that this will be one that many will consider one of the most memorable of all time, namely due to the epic return of cycling's greatest legend to the top of the sport. It was a sunny day as the riders took the 154km jaunt to Paris. It was all smiles for Alberto Contador, who won his 2nd Tour in 3 years. A brilliant ride for Andy Schleck to claim second place on the podium, and of course kudos to Lance for finishing an astounding 3rd after 4 years away from the sport, being 37 years old, and breaking his collarbone in 4 places just one month before the start of the TDF. His return solidifies his greatness in cycling and proves to the world he is an amazing athlete. Also congratulations to Contador and Armstrong's team, Team Astana, for capturing the team championship, which was never really a contest honestly. Also congrats are deserved for Thor Hushovd winning the green jersey, Franco Pellizotti for earning the polka dot mtns AND most combative, and Andy Schleck for winning the white jersey for best young rider U-25. Another impressive feat this year was Mark Cavendish capturing six stages, including the coveted Champs-Elysees sprint, which essentially was a one man show. It is somewhat surprising that after claiming 6 stages in the tour that Cav didnt walk away with the green jersey. The green jersey, even though it is labeled a sprinters jersey, is awarded to the most CONSISTENT rider in the peloton over 3 weeks. Thor Hushovd went for sprint points in the mtns to get points to keep the jersey, which he successfully did. He earned the jersey the hard way. Well this tour had many ups and downs, like they all do inevitably. When Lance Armstrong announced his comeback last October, nobody knew what to expect. Will he succeed? Will he falter? The only thing for sure was that he would give his all and never, ever quit. While many are disappointed he didnt win, Lance puts it in perspective, saying he is proud of his 3rd place after all the adversity he has been through to come back. He came to win, but did the best he could. As for next year? Lance has formed a new team with title sponsor Radio Shack and will race for them next season. He has already recruited team manager Johan Bruyneel to be the DS, and rumors are flying about possible contract signings of other riders, including young and up and comer Brice Feillu of Agritubel and 2nd place finisher this year Andy Schleck. Contador and Armstrong have both publically come forth and chastized each other, making no bones about their lack of a personal friendship of any kind. Next year Alberto Contador may or may not be with Astana, but one thing is for certain: whatever team he is on, it won't be the same on as Armstrong. TDF '10 will be Contador vs. Schleck vs. Armstrong. The only question that remains is can anyone beat Contador? I have a hard time saying yes, just because when I watch Contador, I see Lance Armstrong. A man that can time trial, climb, attack, accelerate, and win. He looks exactly like Lance did in his prime, so he will be extremely hard to beat. Lance has committed to coming back next year and competing in the TDF and says his form will be better, he will be better, and he will be there to win. While he may not be physically as dominant as Contador, he has publically stated he is more intelligent on the road, which he says is Conti's weakness, which can be exploited. Add that to better physical condition and a new team that is 100% dedicated to him unlike this year, and he very well could pull it off. I don't think Andy Schleck will ever win the Tour while Contador or Armstrong is racing in it, those 2 are just too strong. The best thing though about this Tour though wasn't the fast sprints or the high mountain passes, but the ZERO positive drug tests that were had. Not one test of the hundreds, thousands take during the 3 week race came back positive, which is the best news of all. Hopefully most of the doping is behind the sport now and it can move ahead in a new, clean direction. The 2009 Tour De France was epic, just as predicted. Already I can't wait for next year. Lance said he will be back, he will be better, and he will win. For now though, he will bask in his success of a 3rd place on cycling's grandest stage. Not bad for an old guy from Texas. Until July 2010, goodbye.

Stage 13: Vittel-Colmar; 200km

Well its been a while since my last blog and in some ways alot has happened; in others, not so much. Rinaldo Nocentini of AG2R is the new yellow jersey, ahead of Alberto Contador by 6 secs and Lance by 8 secs. Today's Alsace mountains proved more treacherous than expected thanks to a hefty dosage of torrential rains throughout the stage. 5 average climbs turned into a struggle for most of the field as only 55 riders crossed the line as a peloton. An early breakaway proved successful thanks to the rain and in the end Heinrich Haussler of Cervelo was able to pull away from the other 3 breakaway riders to claim the stage. Amets Txurreka of Euskaltel-Euskadi claimed a well-deserved 2nd. Brice Feillu and Sylvain Chavanel rounded out the 4 breakaway riders to cross the line. Today's stage also saw 2 of the 4 jerseys change hands as Franco Pellozotti took the polka-dot from Egoi Martinez, who struggled over the climbs. Also, Thor Hushovd reclaimed the green jersey from Cavendish as he was able to use his Tour experience to finish with the peloton over the climbs, finish 6th on the stage, and gain some points in the classification. The story of the day though is Levi Leipheimer has abandoned the Tour, not starting stage 13 after crashing at the end of stage 12 and breaking his wrist. Levi had successful surgery on it today and will fly home to the States tomorrow. A sad situation for Levi and Astana, who have suffered a big blow heading into the Alps. Speaking of the Alps, Sunday is the kickoff for them, as tomorrow's stage is the last chance for sprinters' glory before the Champs-Elysees in Paris. It is clear now that an Astana rider will win the TDF this year, as Nocentini will most certainly not be able to hold on in the high mountains. The question that remains though, is which Astana rider will it be? Contador or Lance? The Alps will decide it all. Until then.

Stage 4: Montpellier-Montpellier; TTT; 39km

Lance Armstrong is back. With today's expected crushing of the TTT, Armstrong moved up into a virtual tie for the overall lead as Astana powered their way through the course and knocked many of the overall contenders out of contention. With no minimum time loss being imposed by director Christian Prudhomme, many of Astana's rivals lost massive time and are now 3 minutes in arrears of Armstrong and Contador. The last 5km was all Armstrong as he pulled for the yellow jersey, only to fall 22/100 of a second short. I believe it is clear now that, even if he not the strongest man in this year's tour or even on Astana, he is here to win if he can. Fabian Cancellara has held on to his virtual zero second lead, but the mountains loom on Friday and he certainly will not be in yellow after that day. For team Astana, Friday may separate the men from the boys in the pecking order of the team. Team Astana now holds 2nd-5th in the GC, all but assuring that one of their riders will win this year's TDF. Tomorrow's stage 5 and Thursday's stage 6 are for the sprinters again. I am now convinced Cavendish may win every flat stage this year as no one has been able to touch him in the first 2 flat stages, which ultimately resulted in 2 Cavendish wins. The next 2 days will be good recovery days for Lance and team Astana, if u can call 200km recovery. The real test of the Pyrenees is on the horizon. Who will pass? Until then.

Stage 3: Marseille-La Grande-Motte; 196.5km

Today started out very similar to any other flat stage in the TDF. A small breakaway of 4 riders gained a double digit time gap on the peloton and were expected to be swept up with 15km or so to go. But unfortunately for the riders they are on the southern coast of France: Brittany. With this territory comes massive cross winds and they proved vicious today. With 40 km to go, the riders got hit with a massive head-cross and were immediately split up into two groups. The lead group of four got swept up but stayed with the first split group. Only 25 riders could power through the winds to be in the front group, and one of them was an 'ol texan. Armstrong and teammates Yaroslav Popovych and Haimar Zubeldia made the split while the rest of the field was caught chasing, inevitably never catching the lead group. All 9 riders from Columbia-HTC made the first split which meant another sprint victory for Mark Cavendish, who took stage 3 ahead of Thor Hushovd for his 2nd win in this year's tour. Popovych finished 11th on the stage; Lance took 19th. The big news though was that their group of 25 finished 40 seconds ahead of the main peloton, which included big names such as teammates Alberto Contador and Levi Leipheimer, and other main rivals such as Cadel Evans, Carlos Sastre, and Denis Menchov. With his front split finish, Lance has shot up to 3rd in the overall standings, only behind 2nd place Tony Martin of Columbia-HTC and leader Fabian Cancellara, who was attentive enough to make the break when the cross winds kicked in with 40k to go. Lance is now the highest place Astana rider. With teammates Contador, Leipheimer and Kloden not making the split today, is Lance now proving he is the best of breed? We shall see. It is my opinion that Lance has carte blanche within the team. On paper and within the media, Contador is the team leader and the other 8 riders, including Armstrong, support his efforts to win. But privately, if Lance feels he can take something into his own hands to get ahead, I think they let him do it. How could you not? He's only won 7 TDFs.....Tomorrow's stage 4 TTT will prove crucial as a sorting out of the pecking order of this year's contenders. Within no maximum time loss like in previous years, and the technical nature of this year's route, there may be huge gaps among the leaders at the end of the day, and if Astana takes the TTT, Lance will be in yellow. Incredible. Until then.

Stage 2: Monaco-Brignoles; 187km

The first flat stage with a surprising 4 climbs of a cat 3 and 3 cat 4s for the sprinters proved an exciting one with an atypical result however. The first week nerves showed as 3 crashes today were interspersed with several breakaways and high speeds. In the end however, the experienced Columbia-HTM team riders provided the perfect leadout for sprint phenom Mark Cavendish, who took stage 2 with ease. A late crash within 3km hindered the opportunity of some, including big guns Danilo Napolitano and Tom Boonen. Tyler Farrar, Roman Feillu, and Thor Hushovd took 2nd, 3rd, and 4th respectively but were inevitably no match for Cavendish's raw power and speed. Many expect Cavendish to win 5 stages, a definite possibility in my opinion. Lance and team Astana finished towards the front-middle of the pack, right where an experienced team of riders should be. Their first test will be Tuesday's stage 4 TTT. Tomorrow's stage 3 only has 2 cat 4 bumps in the road so another chance for Cavendish to show off the legs. Maybe Boonen will have his day. We shall see. Until then, au revoir.

Stage 1: Monaco-Monaco; ITT; 15.5km

Lance's return to the tdf peloton was a success, depending on who you talk to. While Lance posted a great individual time for his age and after a 3 year absence from the main event, he slotted in at a somewhat disappointing 10th, behind main rivals Cadel Evans and teammates Alberto Contador and Levi Leipheimer AND Andreas Kloden. With 4 Astana riders in the top 10, they are most definitely the team to beat in this year's tour and most likely the winner in 3 weeks will come from this team; they are just too big of a powerhouse to compete with in the mountains. Lance looked powerful but struggled over the 2nd half of the course after leading the first time split for some time. The small cat 4 climb halfway through proved more challenging I feel than many of the riders had originally anticipated. 10th isn't exciting, but considering what he has been through with the collarbone and all, it is an excellent posting. 20 stages to go. Tuesday, Stage 4, is the TTT. Look for Astana to demolish that and for Lance to slide up in the overall.

brett favre, stop it.

You know, as much as I didn't care for Brett Favre's return to there Jets, I understood why he returned. He missed the game and it was a hard choice to walk away. Even then though I still thought it was pathetic after his cry session to the media and saying this was the end for good. Now, he wants to possibly return again, this time with the Vikings. Enough is enough, Brett. Just walk away from the game. I understand it is hard to do, but your time has come, you are only destroying your own reputation by being indecisive and potentially all for nothing as you most certainly will not improve with age. Granted, he did bring the Jets close to the playoffs, but anychange was good change for that organization and I felt many could have done what he has done. For the Vikings, you are taking a big risk on an older player who may not prove to be anywhere as good as you are willing to pay him. Brett Favre had a great career and is a hall of famer without a doubt, but you have to know when to walk away. Dragging this charade on will only hurt your image in the eyes of those who respect your ability, talent, and career.

a college senior reflection.....

I attended some friends' graduation the other night, and it got me to thinking about how I felt when I graduated and where I'm at 3 years later and almost a college grad. Listening to the student speakers and others, I reflected upon my own experiences in high school and college and tried to compare their experience with mine. Unfortunately, however, it really isn't possible to compare different people with different lives because we all have unique personalities that lead us down different paths, sometimes very polar opposite ones. While I was reflecting on my experience while trying to celebrate those of my close friends, I realized that mine has been maybe not as glamorous as I thought it would be. Our high school didn't nearly have as much success or involvement in activities and events. I feel like my friends were much better prepared for college, for the outside world, for life. I also feel like my 3 years at college could have been better, especially this year up at the main campus. Listen, we all have regrets and hindsight is most certainly 20/20, but what have I learned from all of this is the following. Maybe not to take myself too seriously. Maybe to go after what I want regardless of what anyone else thinks. I need to find that drive, that motivation, to propel me into realms of possibilities that I know are achievable but for whatever reason I haven't. My dad told me a quote I won't ever forget one night. He said that I know what I want, and I know how to get what I want, but I just don't have the 'want'. Find it. If I've learned anything from my friends and family its that you should try to live life to the fullest. We all just get one chance on this planet so make it count. Sure, you will make mistakes. Sure, you will have to explore outside of your comfort zone. But that is what makes it all worth it. That's how you make friends for life. It's how you become part of groups you never thought you would. It's how you live the dream. Don't be fearful of the future and the unknown, but attack it head-on. Who cares if you fall flat on your face? You won't be the first OR last. My college advice to graduates is simple. These are the 4 years of your life that are yours and yours only. Make them the best of your life, but most importantly and above all, make these 4 years YOURS. Talk to that random girl in class. Go out for lunch with friends. Study hard and party hard. Just make sure that what your doing is what YOU want to do. Be adventurous, be studious, be curious, be crazy, be yourself but explore outside yourself. Keep a routine but try different things. Make sure your best friends now are still your best friends then, but make totally new best friends. Mature but don't take yourself too seriously. These 4 years are yours and yours alone. Only you can define how they turn out. Take the initiative and tackle college head-on, and you will find out that it will impact your life in amazing ways. Do it your way. What they say is true, these are the best years of your life for the simple fact that they are just that: YOUR years. Enjoy.

what happened to the E in ECHL?

It seems that the EAST in East Coast Hockey League, or ECHL, is non-existent anymore. The good ol' days of teams such as Erie and Wheeling have long gone and have given way to WEST coast teams like bakersfield, phoenix, las vegas and yes, Alaska. 2 of the last 3 ECHL champs have been western teams, Alaska and Idaho. With the core teams winning less and less championships over the years, I think it may be time for a name change. While Johnstown hockey was an ECHL original, even they can't perform with the new kids of the west block. Maybe ICHL is a more appropriate name: Intercoastal Hockey League.

"no, i won't be back"

This weekend was another explicit reminder of the fact that I have no desire to return to Johnstown after college. I realized tonight that its not the place I miss, but the people who I've come to known over many years that I miss. Granted, I am someone who values consistency in my life and having a home here to come back to on a rare weekend appearance is nice, but beyond that this town offers an atmosphere I cannot be a part of anymore. I've 'been there done that' as they say, and frankly I cannot see myself here past college. Some people are content here, which is fine, but it just isn't for me. Everyone always says that they would never be back and then did come back, but I guarantee I will not be joining their ranks. The great friends and memories I have made here will always be with me no matter where I go, but after 21 years it's time to say goodbye to Johnstown. While I will miss the place where I spent my entire life, I am more eager to move on to bigger and better things. I'm grateful for the lifelong friends I've made here, and they will always be a part of my life. The memories I made in Johnstown, in Richland, on Packer Street, will always be a part of my life. My LIFE, however, is moving on. This summer will be my last mark I make on this place. I will try, like I always do, to live it up, and especially this summer as it will be my last. I will, as I always have, LIVESTRONG.

"OUTTA PRINT"

Due to the economic crisis were living in, the once heralded print edition of many national newspapers across many regions of the US are shutting down completely or moving their editions to online-only subscriptions. With cash-strapped consumers cutting out luxury items in their increasingly diminishing budgets, newspaper prints are losing profit margins and are slashing jobs, and now in many cases, ceasing publication on many or all days and either transferring to an Internet-only subscription or just shutting down all-together. This is one of the many tragedies of the crisis, and one that is being overlooked by the mainstream media; unfairly so since these are such a huge part of American culture as we see it. For many, the consistency and tradition of reading the morning paper is embedded within our lives; not a neccessity by trait but a tradition by choice. While news is obviously and undeniably much more viable and effective via the Internet or cable news networks, the detail and care provided in a newspaper, be it a local tribune or a national publication, is something that is irreplaceable in this society. The care that writers, journalists and editors put in to bring you the stories as accurately and unbiased as possible is something many of us readers cherish. While these characteristics may carry over to the online world, there is just some intangible aura about indulging in a daily print edition. Whether this is just an overrated American tradition or not is a matter of opinion, but the fact that an important cornerstone industry of American culture is slowly dying away is one of the many sad storylines that has come to fruition during this unique downturn. So while major papers such as the Rocky Mountain News, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Ann Arbor News and others collapse under the weight of unsustainable revenues and turn to the internet for survival, the one dismal question that remains is: who's next?

March Madness in more ways than one...

While March Madness begins tonight with the play-in game between Alabama St. and Morehead St., many are filling out their brackets, including myself which I just finished, and are trying to figure out their Final Four and tourney champ. Of all the years I have been filling them out, this year I felt was the hardest yet. The reason being is that there were no clear elite teams this season. While the Big East was by far the strongest conference, Louisville lost to WKU and Pitt faltered against Providence and in the first round of the conference tourney against WVU. If their is one year that a 1 seed will finally be upset by a 16 seed, this is the year for it happen. While this madness is getting ready to begin, the tournament committee once again had to deal with the madness of choosing who got in and who didnt to the 65 team tourney. While I feel the committee has gotten better and better each year in attempting to accurately select the best 65 teams, there are still nagging issues about the process. First and foremost, I appreciate the tourney director coming out and saying it is about a team's entire body of work throughout the season, not just the end of the regular season and the conference tournament. It means that the beginning matters just as much as the end and that your non-conference scheduling matters as well(one of the ultimate demises of PSU not getting invited). The problem I have with this though is that the winner of every conference tournament automatically gets a bid to the national tournament, regardless of their "body of work" or any other factors. From the MEAC to the SEC, the winners of the conference tournaments get an invite, all 31 of them. This certainly does not represent the committee's ideal of a complete body of work gets you in. Point and case, Baylor. Entering the Big 12 conference tournament(which all teams make by the way, no one is excluded from the conference of tournament, regardless of record), Baylor had an overall record of 17-14, and a dismal 2-11 conference record, putting them at the bottom of the Big 12. 3 wins later, 2 of them versus a struggling Nebraska and faltering Texas and one shocker vs. Kansas, Baylor found themselves in the conference final versus Mizzou, where if they would have won that game, they would have received an automatic bid to the national tourney. Now, I understand Baylor had a good run in the conference tourney and knocked off Kansas, but are you going to tell me they deserve a tourney slot based on their entire body of work. Even AFTER their improbable conference tourney run, they were only an average 20-14 overall, and still a very poor 5-11 within the conference. This also happened with the SEC where a generally average Miss. St. won the SEC and got an automatic bid, a team that would have certainly not been in the tourney if it wasnt for winning their conference tourney. This is not at all a fair and equitable process if you are using a team's entire season/body of work. In fact, it is ultracounter-intuitive in my opinion. The solution: eliminate conference tournaments. They serve no purpose other than for entertainment value. While it does allow some bubble teams a chance to gain ground in the committee's eyes, it should only be used as a small portion of the metrics used to gauge who is in and who is out. A better solution which would be more satisfying to all parties would to be eliminate the automatic bid for conference tournament winners, but still play the conference tournament. While some teams and fans may find this worthless, it gives more equity to all teams vying for seeds, from the #1 seeds to the bubbles such as Saint Mary's and PSU. If you are going to say that the criterium for getting into the NCAA tournament is a team's entire body of work throughout the season, from the non-conference schedule in November right up through March, then you can't allow the winner of a short conference tournament to receive an automatic bid. We're getting closer to getting it right. Maybe next year. Enjoy the madness.

the end of the road for TT.

And the journey finally ends. With a 54-39 loss to Marion Center in the consolation game, Westy has been stopped one game short of the state playoffs and eliminated from contention. With 2 starters out with injuries, it was a short bench and a lack of cohesion as the offense never got going enough to outscore MC. This will go down as a game of "what ifs", as in if both injured starters were able to play, I feel this would have been a win for WH. Marion Center was by no means a high powered or potent offense, and Westmont actually did a good job of shutting them down on defense in the 1st half, as depleted as they were. With only essentially one substitute, the Westy players wore out in the second half and MC poured on the scoring. It was a sad way to end the season for the seniors, especially for the injured #15, whose last game ever was watching from the bench. But these things happen in sports, and while it is ironically upsetting to end their careers this way, its part of the game, as unfortunate as it may be. Again, the story of the game, though not at their full strengh, was still the offensive turnovers and defensive rebounds. When you give up 2nd, 3rd, and 4th chances on the defensive glass, you are bound to get frustrated and start taking fouls, which they did, which ultimately led to free points essentially for MC, increasing their lead. This incessant fouling also led to the foulout of 2 of Westy's starters, all but flaming out their chances of coming back. Also, when you are given opportunities to score and gain momentum, turnovers are something that simply cannot happen, especially in such a crucial game. A lack of mental focus and discipline persisted over from the last game and assisted MC in getting the win. The simple mistakes once again led to their demise, mistakes that they can control. While it is sad and disappointing, the players have alot to be proud of. Nobody this year expected them to be any better then around .500, let alone be one game away from the state playoffs. As for the seniors, the triple threat, what else can I say? They are incredible and had an amazing 4 years, transforming from insignificant freshman to extremely talented players and the core leaders for this team. It was fun to watch my friends over the years mature as players, and as girls. I'm proud of what theyve accomplished, and so is everyone else. Now, they move on to bigger and better life experiences. Next stop: college, hah. Next stop for me: spring break in Puerto Rico, hopefully I make it home in one piece. Until then, peaceee out.

STATE PATTYS WEEKEND

Well, st. pattys weekend has come and gone. There were barhops, carbombs, and seas of green shirts for 48 hours in downtown state college. Not surprisingly, few incidents arose. The administration feels that an unsanctioned student holiday is not in the best interest of the university or its students. While I agree it may not look the best, I stand behind our student body. SOS organizes the event many months in advance and gets many local bars, taverns, clubs, restaurants, and shops to coordinate their efforts to help make the weekend a success for everyone. The administration is too worried that it reflects badly on us. Well, I say it doesnt. It is a good way for alumni and students to come together of all generations and celebrate a holiday that is unique to PSU, one of the many reasons this is a great college. We hold the one and only SPD. While it is basically an excuse to drink, it is formally planned out, helps the local economy, and goes off with few incidents of consequence. While I understand's the administration's timidness in supporting this student-run holiday, I think they need to understand that our freedom to plan something of this nature shows our true passion for creativity and individualism. WE ARE.....PENN STATE.

my good luck finally ran out for westy hah.

Tonight's 38-25 loss to Southern Huntingdon shouldn't come as a surprise to most; they were the #1 seed in D6, 24-0, and had 3 girls over 5'9 and a 3pt bomber to show for it. But anyone who was at that game knows that westmont had their chances to win it. The first thing anyone will bring up when talking about this game will be the tactic at the very beginning of the game employed by coach Jodi Hillegass. Westmont won the tipoff and preceded to take the ball up past half court. Once over the line, guard Nikki Perry held the ball. for 5 minutes straight! no body moved. no one. She held the ball for 5 minutes and everyone just stood around. I have been to many a bball game, but I have never in my entire life seen something like that. It was interesting, shocking, and ridiculous all in one. Southern Huntingdon's players just stood there and Nikki just stood with the ball. The referrees just watched. Now, I was always under the impression that there was some sort of delay penalty that would result in a turnover for this kind of act but I guess I was wrong because there she stood for 5 minutes, untouched and unmoving. Nobody on the court moved. Westmont fans began to cheer. Apparently the strategy was to slow the pace of the game to the point where SH could not get their offense going in the hopes that the low score would be advantageous to Westy and keep them in the game. Unfortunately, this strategy will only work if 1. you can score on your few driving possessions, which they didnt, and 2. that your defense locks down and holds SH to a minimum amount of pts, which they did. I am in total disagreement with this tactic for several reasons. First, you should always play to win the game. This strategy shows that Coach Hillegass was not playing to win, she was playing not to lose, which is unacceptable as far as I'm concerned. Second, and most importantly, what kind of message is this saying to your players? It says basically that "hey, if we go and play our normal aggressive style offense against them we will lose so we will do this so we have a chance to win because you girls aren't good enough to do it on your own". Now, I don't know how the girls viewed this tactic, whether they were for it or against it is irrelevant, the message the coach is sending in my eyes is clear. I think this totally would destroy any confidence your players have in winning, and it showed tonight. Westmont had probably well over double the turnovers of SH and many far too many errant passes and rash decisions. This, I feel, is a direct result of that beginning play. But this is just my opinion of course because only the players and coaches really know how this all affected them. I have said all along that if Westmont eliminates THEIR mistakes they can beat anybody. It's only when they make their own mistakes is when they lose; tonight was no exception. They had a chance to win, but you cannot turn the ball over that many times on offense and expect to win, especially against the #1 seed who is now 25-0. Also, whether it the lack of discipline with the ball is the players' fault or the coach's, it definitely exists. At the end of the first 2 quarters, Westy had the chance to hold the ball for the last shot, but instead opted to shoot with time left, both resulting in misses and both resulting in SH scores before the end of the quarters. This lack of mental focus is also a team mistake which needs to be fixed. When it comes to the big games, Coach Hillegass has yet to prove herself capable of taking herself past teams that may be a bit more well coached. Just look at her two failed title attempts, her loss in the western pa final, and this one and it seems pretty obvious to me. Congratulations to the seniors who once again led the team, and whom without, this team would be nowhere at all. The season isn't over as they are in a consolation game Thursday versus the loser of the McCort/Marion Center game. The winner of the consolation then continues on to states. The run isn't over yet for the triple threat, but oh how much sweeter it would have been. Along with the beginning player, westy forward Kayla Vliet got injured early in the first half and never returned, so many variables tonight in a loss. If Westy can eliminate their own mistakes and make sharper decisions with the ball, they can win every game. The journey continues Thursday, and I hope they win because I enjoy watching my friends play, plus its a nice distraction from the weekly college grind. Until then.

firing therrien is NOT the answer needed.

My worst fears about Pens GM Ray Shero have come true. I knew eventually it would come to the termination of Michel Therrien as head coach, but its not the solution. Why it was only two weeks ago that Shero stated in a press conference that Therrien is a great coach and has the full support of the administration and that the rough patches for the Pens always end up turning around under Coach Therrien. Yet, here we are. I understand why some people are quick to defend Shero. Many fans didn't like Therrien for his emotionless style and blunt, honest statements. But for anyone who has played any puck at all, you know he is the exact coach that you want your players to be around. This is the guy who does what it takes to win and will make whatever changes necessary within his power to do so. Satan isn't playing up to potential? Fine, bench him or stick him on the 4th line. This was Therrien's M.O. from day one and I for one thought it was refreshingly genuine for the game and for the Penguins. Therrien has not changed his style of coaching from last year when he led the team to the Stanley Cup Finals. I understand that when a change is needed something has to be done. When the Pens are losing 5-1 in the 2nd period, and Therrien pulled Fleury, even though none of the goals were his fault, some change is needed to spark energy. While Fluery is not at fault, sometimes you just need a change of pace/scenery/whatever you want to call it. Unfortunately, in today's day and age, when a team is struggling, it is much easier to point at the coach for the blame and punish him then the players. Therefore, Therrien got the boot Sunday evening before the Pens' afternoon game against the Isles. Like I said, Therrien is the same coach and employs the same methods as he did last year when they almost took home the Cup. This year, he tried doing everything from changing the lines mid-game to bringing up AHL players; nothing worked. The blame for this season ultimately falls on 1. the players for not working together as well and 2. Ray Shero for making terrible off-season acquisitions. In the end, the players have to provide the energy and spark and talent to win games; Therrien cannot make them go out there and score goals. When push comes to shove, its up to the forwards, defensemen, and goaltenders. I feel when all of this is said and done, Ray Shero will regret making this decision. While I understand about change being needed and that Therrien will ultimately have to shoulder the blame for the Pens performance, anyone who knows hockey knows this is not Therrien's doing. Unfortunately, the coaches are the first ones to get axed when something goes wrong. It is not right, in any sport, for the blame to be placed solely on the shoulders of the coach all the time, but this is the life of professional sports, and like it or not, they are businesses that are only interested in winning, which keeps the fans coming back and paying money. Dan Bylsma I can assure you is not the answer, at least this season. I expect the Pens to make some drastic moves before the trade deadline March 4th. I think it is only right to show the fans that Therrien is not solely to blame for this debacle of a season. As Paul Steigerwald and Bob Errey, Pens in-game announcers, were getting into the elevator of their hotel the night before the Isles afternoon game, Therrien came walking out of it with suitcase in hand. Paul asked Michel "where you going, Mike?", to which Therrien responded: "I'm going home." With his head held high, Paul said, he said that and walked out the door the same way he came in; a confident coach with plenty to offer. Therrien will quickly find another team, as he is a valuable asset as a coach, every team knows this. As for Bylsma and the Pens, time will tell, but no matter what side you take on this matter, the fact remains that letting Therrien go is NOT going to be the single solution to a team that has many problems this year.

From Lord Stanley to missin the playoffs, what happened?

Rough is about the only word that encompasses the Pens entire season thus far. Through 300 man games lost to injury, a lack of focus, and a loss of key players in free agency, it hasn't been the season envisioned by the team that made the Cup Finals last season. The big question by all the fans is obvious: what happened from last year to this year? Sure, the team had alot of injuries, but what team doesn't? First, it starts with the off-season transactions. The Pens lost Ryan Malone, Jarkko Ruutu, and Marion Hossa; all key assets who brought so many different facets to the Pens game. Malone dug down low and in front of the net as a 3rd line center. Ruutu brought grit and determination as an enforcer on the 3rd and 4th lines as well. Hossa, an indispensible winger for Crosby and Malkin. These 3 guys alone brought more than what you think to a team that was one of the best in the league last season. Also, the talent that GM Ray Shero brought in has not performed to anyone's expectations. Ruslan Fedotenko, Miro Satan, and Petr Sykora have been nothing short of busts in terms of scoring potential. Couple that with the lack of effort shown by high-profile players such as Jordan Staal, and it all adds up to a complete lack of cohesion on this team. With Gonchar being out most of the year, the defense has faltered and the PK has fell to under 80%, pushing dead last in the league. The power play also hasn't been successful, hovering around 17% all year, also close to the bottom in the NHL. The biggest factor that has kept this skid going though is a lack of confidence. When you lose key guys to free agency, and don't pick up anything good in return, and have alot of man injuries to key players like Gonchar, you never have a team that gels. Half the lines for the year have been led by AHL players; you can never get cohesion like that. So, while this team is nearly the same ability-wise, the lack of cohesion has turned to a lack of confidence, which is why the Penguins won't, and don't deserve, to make the playoffs this year.

Just when you thought the Pro Bowl couldn't get worse....

It did. An already lack-luster game has reached new lows by the recent announcement of NFL commish Roger Goodell, stating that the Pro Bowl will now be played one week PRIOR to the Super Bowl, AND that it will be played at the site of the Super Bowl as well and not in Hawaii, where it is traditionally held. This is by far one of Goodell's worst moves as commissioner in his few years at that position. The game was already in question due to many players wanting to avoid further injury and others not willing to play and just wanting to spend a little vacation time in the state. I can't even begin to comprehend this move whatsoever. First off, a week BEFORE!?! The Pro Bowl is based mostly on fan and player voting, meaning the players with the best stats make it, in general. Historically, this means that these players are mostly from playoff teams and very likely from the teams playing in the Super Bowl. In fact, logic would tell you that alot of players in the Pro Bowl are probably playing in the Super Bowl, it's just common sense. None of those players, nor their coaches, are going to want them to risk injury for a game that has no bearing on the season at all. If you are on a SB team, why would you consider playing at all in a worthless game the week before the SB? Could you imagine if the Pro Bowl was a week before the SB this year and Fitzgerald, Bolden, Warner, Roethlisberger, Holmes, Ward, Polamalu or any other SB players would get hurt? The players union would tear down Goodell and the administration. Now, there are fines in place I believe for skipping the Pro Bowl, but those fines are well worth it to avoid an injury before the Super Bowl. Many players will be missing the Pro Bowl next year if they are also in the SB, essentially making voting for the players in the game worthless, thereby making the game worthless. Secondly, and most importantly to the players I think, the Pro Bowl is the last horrah for them, a celebration of a successful(or merciful; aka Lions) end to a season. It is a chance to go to Hawaii and enjoy a week of relaxation with beautiful weather and beaches and attractions. Players look forward to going to Hawaii as they feel they have earned the trip, and I agree that they have as well. Now you are taking that away from them too and sending them to the same stadium as the SB, which next year is Miami, which most players go to during the regular season to play the Dolphins anyway, especially the AFC East division. Overall, this was a horrible decision by the NFL administration and Roger Goodell. Who could possibly sit in a board room meeting, and when discussing the Pro Bowl for the future and putting forth these ideas says "oh yeah these are great new options the players will love em"? Its absolutely 100 percent absurd. Fans, players, and coaches alike were calling for the end of the Pro Bowl BEFORE it was moved away from Hawaii and moved to a week before the SB. Now, with these changes put in place, this almost certainly spells doom for the Pro Bowl game. I agree that the Pro Bowl needed some changes, but these are the exact opposite and worst ones possible.

Michael Phelps: Sink or Swim?

After Phelps' photo appeared, the question started swirling: has his legacy been tarnished? While most people seem to be taking one side or the other, particularly the yes camp, I take both sides. On one hand, Michael Phelps, as immortal as he may seem to all of us, including myself, is no different than any of us. He's liable to go out and party and try to live as normal a life as possible considering his worldwide status. I have absolutely no problem with him partying, and having a few drinks or even trying some weed. Just because you're famous doesn't mean you shouldnt be allowed to have a good time. BUT, I also take the other side in this as well. When you have gained so much fame and acclaimed fortune(over 200 million in endorsements alone!), no matter how much you fuel the need or may want to go out and party and hangout, you just can't. I'm sorry, but this is the price you must pay for your fame and money you have accrued. You have put yourself up on a worldwide pedestal of achievement and class and integrity. You are not allowed to breach that unspoken contract, or you WILL suffer the consequences of your actions. This entire act is almost forgiveable except for the fact that it has happened before with his DUI over 5 years ago as a minor. He said then that he would never fall into this trap again, yet here we are. If the weed photo was a first-time deal, one could almost brush it off as Phelps just letting loose one time. So while I have no problem with Phelps trying to live a normal life and do what he wants, he has to remember who he is. You cannot go to a party where most of the people there you don't know and expect nothing to happen when you start smoking. Something will happen, and it did. So, Michael Phelps, live your life with a balance. You can have fun, but be responsible. Remember everything you stand for and realize that as much as you deserve your freedom from the press, you will never get it. While the great Charles Barkley told us that athletes don't have to be role models, I believe that you do because of what you've done, and I think you want to be one as well. You have disappointed yourself, your fans, and USA Swimming as they've handed you a 3 month suspension. You just can't publicize yourself when you are as famous as he his, you just can't. So have fun, but responsibly. While I believe you are truly sorry for what you've done, I'm not sure I accept that apology. After the DUI, he said it would never be repeated, his reckless actions. This is why people are having trouble forgiving him. So, is his legacy tarnished? I don't think it should be, but it ultimately will be to some degree because he stood for everything that was great about atheltic achievement, and now he has disappointed. So, he apologizes again for a stupid act, AGAIN. Fool us once Phelps, shame on you. Fool us twice, shame on us.

close those cabinet doors!

If there is something that confuses me more than anything this week it is how so many cabinet nominees have tax issues. Even more astounding is how administration officials and panels didn't notice these liens before they were delegated at all. This is a total lack of discipline on the new adminstration's part, and frankly, as much as i hate to say it, it starts with Barack Obama. If he is unaware of his nominees' tax problems, someone or someonessss on his staff need to delve into their financials and find out the real problem. Every nominee should be audited by the adminstration in the first place, why they weren't is beyond me. The bottom line is that we cannot have administration officials in cabinet positions, high power, decision-making decisions, with shaky tax history. If they cannot manage their own financials, how can they possibly manage anything else, let alone a cabinet secretary position. The Obama administration better get their head screwed on straight or they are in for a rough first year, although they may have already dug too big a hole to get out of this fiscal quarter. Try to pass that stimulus bill now.

whats with the peanut butter?

Another episode in the peanut epidemic. Today a Texas plant was found by federal inspectors to not have been inspected for four years previous to the outbreak. There were no random checks by any authorities whatsoever. While no salmonella outbreak was found at this plant in Texas, it was a distributor of those materials. The big question is of course is how do you go for years without inspection without anyone noticing? And if so, how does no one ELSE notice that no one has noticed??? These are the small things that are wrong with the free market capitalist system. While I am not refuting its effectiveness, one can't deny the implications it has when it is allowed to run rampant without major checks and balances. Unfortunately, in this case, it cost people their lives, not just their money. While this plant was not responsible for the salmonella outbreak, the fact remains that it skipped protocol by not engaging in federal safety checks. Does profit really out-trump the well being of consumers. Case and point, apparently it does. Management of this plant should be punished fully, in addition to the guilt I'm sure many of them now feel, although I don't accept this as satisfactory. Sure, the plant workers and managers in Texas and Georgia may feel sorry and give heartfelt apologies, but no matter how well-worded, they can't bring back the 8 people killed by their negligence and incompetance. So while everyone screams about the need for greater transparancy in our financial markets, I think it should start at a peanut distribution plant in Georgia. We've already started too late though in the minds of 8 people and their families.