Author: fasted86

Friday, November 8, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

Never fight… until you have to. When it is time to fight, you fight like you’re the third monkey on the ramp to Noah’s Ark… and brother, it’s starting to rain!

Trivia #1: Besides vodka, what liquor is included in a Harvey Wallbanger?
Trivia #2: What does “chooglin’” mean?
Trivia #3: Who won the 2011 championships in the NHL, NBA, MLB and the NFL (Super Bowl played in 2011)?

On this date: November 8, 1731, in Philadelphia, Benjamin Franklin opened the 1st library in the north American colonies, the Library Company of Philadelphia.
November 8, 1895, German physicist Wilhelm Rontgen produces and detects electromagnetic radiation in a wavelength range today known as X-rays or Röntgen rays.
November 8, 1956, Biblical drama film “The Ten Commandments”, directed by Cecil B. DeMille, starring Charlton Heston and Yul Brynner premieres at the Criterion Theater in NYC
November 8, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signs anti-trust immunity to AFL-NFL merger

Go away: Pollsters

Don’t be that guy. Don’t burn in your backyard during a “red flag” warning. Idiot!

Ohhh, Dak Prescott is hurt and the Cowboys stink. (They stunk before he got hurt). That must be cool for their fans. Did I mention they are winless at home? My heart goes out.

If you bet that fewer than 34 points would be scored in just the 4th quarter of last night’s Bengals/Ravens game, you lost!

Good news: Bill and Becky Chilcutt spent the last two decades traveling to every state capitol in the country — and had one left on their list when Bill Chilcutt’s terminal cancer halted the planned trip. Employees at the Chick-fil-A Market in Springwoods Village, TX, contacted the Alaska State Capitol — the last stop on the Chilcutts’ bucket list — to see if there was a way for the Chilcutts to visit the capitol without physically being there. An employee photographed the Chilcutts’ wedding photo around the building in Juneau, Alaska — even signing their names on the visitors’ log. Alaska State Capitol employees sent the Chilcutts the photos, a scrapbook and gifts while the Chick-fil-A team presented them with a custom drawing of the pair in front of Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier. 

Not good news: A total of 7 people remain unaccounted for in North Carolina following Hurricane Helene as the death toll from the storm reached 102 as of Thursday.

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: Baltimore Ravens’ placekicker, Justin Tucker, had missed only 6 of 504 extra points in his career. (He missed one last night)

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: In the days following Trump’s victory, hordes of Washington Commanders fans have taken to social media and called on Donald Trump to help push the organization to change its name back to “Redskins,” previously used from 1937 until its name was changed in 2020. (Whether I’m a fan of the move or not… oh boy!)

Article I’ll skip: Retailers announce “inflation-free” Thanksgiving dinner deals

Big OT win for the Bruins last night.

Trivia #1 answer: Besides vodka, what liquor is included in a Harvey Wallbanger? – Galliano
Trivia #2: What does “chooglin’” mean? – “Chooglin'” is a term that describes a type of music and a way of life, A debauched form of white-boy boogie that’s open to all, but is especially common among the working class. 
Trivia #3: Who won the 2011 championships in the NHL, NBA, MLB and the NFL (Super Bowl played in 2011)? – Boston Bruins (NHL), Dallas Mavericks (NBA), St. Louis Cardinals (MLB), Green Bay Packers (NFL)

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Do what you have to do so that you can do what you want to do.

Everyone is good at something.

Happy National Harvey Wallbanger Day!

“Maybe you don’t understand it
But if you’re a natural man
You got to ball and have a good time
And that’s what I call choogling
Here comes Mary looking for Harry
She going to choogle tonight
Here comes Louie, works in the sewer
He going to choogle tonight”

Creedence Clearwater Revival (Keep On Chooglin’)

Friday, November 1, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

Sign seen in library: Please note: The post-apocalyptical fiction section has been moved to Current Affairs.

Trivia #1: Who was the first US President to live in the White House?
Trivia #2: How many zeroes in one decillion?
Trivia #3: Last Sunday, the Ravens’ Derrick Henry had his 20th career game with 100-plus rushing yards and multiple rushing touchdowns. Only three others have accomplished that feat in NFL history, pick from the following. – Walter Payton, Jim Brown, Emmitt Smith, Eric Dickerson, LaDainian Tomlinson

On this date: November 1, 1179, Phillip II crowned King of France at age 14 in Reims, with his father Louis VII in ill health. (I’m trying to picture myself king of anything at age 14!)
November 1, 1604, William Shakespeare’s tragedy “Othello” is first presented
November 1, 1755, Lisbon earthquake kills more than 50,000 in Portugal (50,000!!!)
November 1, 1950, Puerto Rican nationalists Griselio Torresola and Oscar Collazo attempt to assassinate US President Harry Truman at Blair House in Washington D.C.; attack thwarted by White House Police, including Officer Leslie Coffelt who was killed in the line of duty.

Don’t be that guy. Take your hat off in the funeral parlor. Jeez!

What a great autumn up here, weather-wise, in the northeast. If this is global warming, bring it on!

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: The Dodgers’ Will Smith just won his 5th World Series title in 5 consecutive years. Ya, he batted .143 during the series and has a career postseason batting average of .200. Impressive, not! Lucky, yes.

Speaking of the yankees… they bounce back in game 4 and actually show some life. Then, they jump to a 5-0 lead in game 5 before crapping in their own hats. They actually took the lead again before giving it back and bowing out. Yankees suck!

And so do the Jets! (While I’m at it…) I mean, is Aaron Rodgers easy to dislike or what?

And speaking of crapping themselves, the Yankees’ Aaron Judge, who finished the regular season with a .322 batting average, 58 homeruns and 144 RBIs and will most likely be named the AL MVP, batted .184 in the series and has a career, postseason batting average of .205.

I watched a little more than the first half of last night’s Jets/Texans game. There is a lot of bad football being played in the NFL right now. Unfortunately for me, the Patriots are certainly contributors.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: “Election Stress Disorder” is a real thing and it’s making most Americans anxious. About one-third (32%) of adults said the political climate has caused a strain between themselves and family members, while 30% have limited their time spent with family members who don’t share the same values. Half of U.S. adults admitted that tensions around social and political topics make them want to connect less with others, and 28% claimed they have “nothing in common” with people who have different political opinions.

Article I’ll skip: Are SEC women the most attractive in America? The answer is complicated.

What’s up with the Boston Bruins?

Sightseeing and appreciating the wonders of the world, you’re doing it wrong. A woman and her two young children are dead after they intentionally went over a safety rail and leaped into Niagara Falls.

Well, by this time next week, the United States will have a new president. God help us all.

Say what?! A Russian Court fined Menlo Park, California-based Google $2 decillion, which continues to grow each day over penalties for non-payment, for blocking content on YouTube.

Hey, Celtics’ fans. Don’t forget to set your clocks an Auerbach.

Trivia #1 answer: Who was the first US President to live in the White House? – John Adams, he moved into the White on November 1st, 1800.
Trivia #2: How many zeroes in one decillion? – There are 33 zeroes in a decillion
Trivia #3: Last Sunday, the Ravens’ Derrick Henry had his 20th career game with 100-plus rushing yards and multiple rushing touchdowns. Only three others have accomplished that feat in NFL history, pick from the following. – Walter Payton, Jim Brown, Emmitt Smith, Eric Dickerson, LaDainian Tomlinson – Jim Brown (25 times), LaDainian Tomlinson (25) and Emmitt Smith (20)

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Do what you have to do so that you can do what you want to do.

Happy National Calzone Day! (I’ll eat to that!)

“Don’t you know by now
No one gives you anything
Don’t you wonder how you keep on moving
One more day
Your way
Ooooooooh, your way”

Steve Winwood (While You See A Chance)

Friday, October 25, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly. (In relative terms)

Ask me about my attention deficit disorder or my dog or pie. I have a bike, do you like ham? I like your shoes. Hi. What’s your name?

Trivia #1: Last Sunday, the Eagles’ Saquon Barkley ran for 176 yards against the Giants, the second most rushing yards versus a former team in NFL history. Who has the most? (Good luck with this one!)
Trivia #2: Last Sunday, Detroit’s Jared Goff posted his third straight game with a 140-plus passer rating. It was the longest such streak tied with three other quarterbacks. Which three? – Roger Staubach, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Kurt Warner, Peyton Manning, Brett Favre
Trivia #3: It’s Halloween season! Which of the following movies is NOT in the top 5 of the all-time, best-selling horror films? Bonus: Rank them in order – Jaws, The Sixth Sense, The Exorcist, Ghostbusters, It, Scary Movie

On this date: October 24, 1780, John Hancock was elected the first Governor of Massachusetts in a landslide with over 90% of the vote
October 24, 1947, Donald Bradman scores 156 for South Australia v India, 152 mins, 22 fours (I haven’t the slightest idea what that means)
October 24, 1955, Tappan sells 1st microwave oven
October 24, 1966, The Jimi Hendrix Experience play their first UK gig as a private showcase at The Scotch of St. James in London

The Celtics raised banner #18 to the rafters and proceeded to thrash the Knicks on Opening Night. Apparently, I missed it, but as soon as the banner was being raised, TNT went to commercial. DOH!

And you gotta love the Celtics faithful chanting; “Yankees suck, Yankees suck!”

And they do suck! Yes, they’re a pretty good team, they just suck!

Don’t be that guy. Don’t be like the referee in last night’s Vikings/Rams game who didn’t call the blatant facemask penalty on the last play of the game. Gross.

So, Gladiator II is coming out and it doesn’t star Russell Crowe. Now other sequels have come with new stars, James Bond and Batman, for example, but I really need to see this one first. Gladiator, the original, great flick.

When Ken Griffey Jr. shared a field with Ken Griffey Sr. on the Seattle Mariners in 1990, becoming the first father and son to play on the same team, it was historic. When Ken Jr. and Sr. hit back-to-back homeruns on Sept. 14, it became that much more memorable. They both attended the Lakers’ season opener on Tuesday, and got to see LeBron James and his son, Bronny, take the court together. They became the first father and son to play in an NBA game together, much less on the same team. 

For the record, I’ll take the Griffeys over the James’ any day, and twice on Sunday.

Article I’ll skip: Kim Kardashian reacts to recommendation Menendez brothers be resentenced.

Stat of the week: Luke Adams, of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, had a Midwest League-leading OBP of .443 (42 points higher than the next player) while batting just .227 in 101 games. He drew 78 walks and was hit 40 times!

Useless information supposed to fire my imagination: LeBron and his son took the court together.
Useless information supposed to fire my imagination, part deux: The Bears’ Caleb Williams is the first player in NFL history with at least three passing touchdowns and 50 rushing yards in an international game.

Speaking of the Yankees, I can’t root for the Dodgers but can certainly root against the Yankees. I’ll give you a minute to chew on that one.

It really should be an entertaining World Series. Bet the ‘over!’

Last weekend I bought an 8-pack of Bud Lite (for a friend, no Bud Lite here). But I digress. What the heck is an 8-pack?

Sign of the times: The Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) may raise yearly membership fees by 240%, from $25 to $85. The vote comes as membership in the Girl Scouts has declined in recent years, due in part to the pandemic and other factors. The organization ended the 2023 fiscal year with a $4.4 million deficit and it is expected to increase to $5.6 million at the end of the 2024 fiscal year. 

R.I.P. Fernando Valenzuela (63) – the cultural hero and baseball legend launched a movement for baseball fans around the globe. In 1981, he captivated Los Angeles — and fans around the world — by winning each of his first eight starts of the season for the Dodgers. The stretch included seven complete games and five shutouts. He struck out 68 and allowed four earned runs in 72 innings for a 0.50 ERA during the magical run. The performance gave birth to Fernandomania, a phenomenon that still resonates with baseball fans.
R.I.P. “399” (28) – The grizzly bear known as “399” (her research number) was struck and killed by a vehicle while out with her cub in Grand Teton National Park. The grizzly bear 399 was one of the most famous grizzly bears. People from around the world have followed grizzly bear 399 for several decades. At the age of 28, she was the oldest known reproducing female grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

Do clouds look down at us and say; “Hey, that one’s shaped like an idiot!”?

Trivia #1 answer: Last Sunday, the Eagles’ Saquon Barkley ran for 176 yards against the Giants, the second most rushing yards versus a former team in NFL history. Who has the most? – In 2009, the Bengals’ Cedric Benson ran for 189 yards vs. the Bears, his former team.
Trivia #2 answer: Last Sunday, Detroit’s Jared Goff posted his third straight game with a 140-plus passer rating. It was the longest such streak tied with three other quarterbacks. Which three? – Roger Staubach, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Kurt Warner, Peyton Manning, Brett Favre – The other three are Aaron Rodgers (2011), Kurt Warner (1999) and Roger Staubach (1971)
Trivia #3 answer: It’s Halloween season! Which of the following movies is NOT in the top 5 of the all-time, best-selling horror films? – Jaws, The Sixth Sense, The Exorcist, Ghostbusters, It, Scary Movie. Bonus: Rank them in order. – It (1), The Sixth Sense (2), Jaws (3), Ghostbusters (4), The Exorcist (5)

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Do what you have to do so that you can do what you want to do.

Happy National Frankenstein Day!

“Stone free, to do what I please
Stone free, to ride the breeze
Stone free, I can’t stay
I got to, got to, got to get away right now
Yeah, alright”

Jimi Hendrix (Stone Free)

Halloween bonus!

October 18, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

I always carry a pebble with me to throw at people who sing Christmas songs in October. I call it my jingle bell rock.

Trivia #1: Who won the 1988 championships in the NHL, NBA, MLB and the NFL (Super Bowl played in 1988)?
Trivia #2: Who is Charles Strite?

On this date: October 18, 1776, in a bar decorated with bird tail in Elmsford, New York, a customer requests a glassful of “those cock tails” from bartender Betsy Flanagan
October 18, 1867, US takes formal possession of Alaska from Russia, after paying $7.2 million in the Alaska Purchase
October 18, 1967, Walt Disney’s animated musical adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” film is released
October 18, 1974, American R&B singer Al Green’s girlfriend, Mary Woodson, dies by suicide at his Memphis home, after assaulting him with a pot of boiling grits at 29

Go away: Jelly Roll (Jason Bradley DeFord), is an American singer, rapper, and songwriter from Antioch, Tennessee. This guy was recently in the news regarding his long criminal record. Hey, there is only one “Jelly Roll” and that’s Jelly Roll Morton. (Just ask Van Morrison)

As if things couldn’t get worse, cases of flesh-eating bacteria have seen an unusual spike following impacts from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. 70 cases have so far been reported in 2024, with 11 deaths – figures that are similar to 2022 when Hurricane Ian damaged Collier and Lee counties.

Don’t be that guy. Cover your mouth when you yawn. Thank you, from all of us.

The Utah Hockey Club. Puh-lease!

Pretty cool: A time capsule from 1924 was unveiled at the National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, Missouri. The 100-year-old box was laid at the cornerstone of the Liberty Memorial Tower two years before the memorial opened to the public and was found in June by officials. The Liberty Memorial was dedicated “in honor of those who served in World War One in defense of liberty and our country.”

Speaking of pretty cool (and immensely classy!), The Columbus Blue Jackets took the ice for their home opener against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday. Bush’s “Machinehead” blared from the loudspeakers. Spotlights danced in the stands and blinked around the circle at center ice. The sellout crowd of 18,484 roared. But something was wrong. Someone was missing. The starting lineup did not have a left wing, leaving an empty space where Johnny Gaudreau should have been. The teams stood still — for 13 seconds officially to symbolize Gaudreau’s No. 13, for a little longer in reality. The fans rose to their feet and cheered as players from both teams tapped their sticks on the ice and the boards. An official picked up the puck and brought it to the Columbus bench. The fans chanted, “JOHN-NY HOCK-EY!”

Only in hockey…

Advertising, you’re doing it wrong. Bath and Body Works has stopped selling a candle that was emblazoned with a winter theme that many commenters online compared to a Ku Klux Klan hood.

I would love to explain it to you, but I don’t have crayons.

Trivia #1 answer: Who won the 1988 championships in the NHL, NBA, MLB and the NFL (Super Bowl played in 1988)? – Edmonton Oilers (NHL), Los Angeles Lakers (NBA), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), Washington Redskins (NFL)
Trivia #2 answer: Who is Charles Strite? – Charles Strite granted US patent #1,394,450 for his invention, the automatic pop-up toaster on October 18, 1921.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Do what you have to do so that you can do what you want to do.

Happy National No Beard Day! (Sorry, guys. How’s this instead – Happy National Mammography Day!)

“And it stoned me to my soul
Stoned me just like Jelly Roll
And it stoned me
And it stoned me to my soul
Stoned me just like goin’ home
And it stoned me”

Van Morrison (And It Stoned Me)

Bonus: Al Green

October 11, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

In my next life I am coming back with money and looks instead of this sparkling personality bullshit.

Trivia #1: On October 11, 1911, Ty Cobb (AL) and Frank Schulte (NL) are named inaugural MLB MVPs. What did they each receive as a prize? – Cash, a watch, a car, a trophy, a bag of rocks
Trivia #2: Who was Rogers Nelson?

Hurricane Milton. I honestly feel for anyone and everyone affected by this past/present hurricane season. God speed!

On this date: October 11, 1972, World Hockey Association officially debuts as the Alberta Oilers defeat the Ottawa Nationals, 7-4 at the Ottawa Civic Centre
October 11, 1975, “Saturday Night Live” created by Lorne Michaels premieres on NBC with George Carlin as host
October 11, 1983, Last hand-cranked telephones in the US went out of service as 440 telephone customers in Bryant Pond, Maine, were switched over to direct-dial
October 11, 1995, John Bobbitt has plastic surgery to increase his penis 3 inches (Hey, I’m just reporting history here!)

Do you live in the New England area? Did you get a glimpse of the Northern Lights last night? Wicked cool!

Speaking of class, good-bye to longtime Red Sox broadcaster Joe Castiglione. One of Colgate’s best! (Ya, I know…)

Go away: Diddy

Go away, part deux: Deshaun Watson. Cleveland Browns’ quarterback and womanizing thug, is washed up.

I’ve recently paid attention to the MLB playoffs more than most years that the Red Sox didn’t play. Not bad.

Don’t be that guy.

And just like that, the NHL season is underway.

The Bruins’ Charlie McAvoy now has as many power play goals as he did all of last year – one.

Once an up-and-coming NFL quarterback, Seattle’s Geno Smith stinks. Period.

Evacuating, you’re doing it wrong. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) St. Pete is searching for two boaters who were last seen leaving Charlotte Harbor in southwest Florida on Tuesday to avoid Hurricane Milton making landfall. Andreas Gabriel Kirchberger and Kenneth Thomas Reutzel were heading for Tarpon Springs in a vessel called the Helderberg/Queen Milania. USCG Southeast posted to X several pictures of their white-colored vessel which appeared to be a catamaran, a type of sailing yacht with two hulls. 

You only live once.

My favorite of last weekend?? Watching Alabama football get upset by Vanderbilt. It only would have been better had Nick Saban been coaching, but I’ll take it.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: Phone scams have been around for a while, but recent advancements in artificial intelligence technology is making it easier for bad actors to convince people they have kidnapped their loved ones. Scammers are using AI to replicate the voices of people’s family members in fake kidnapping schemes that convince victims to send money to the scammers in exchange for their loved ones’ safety.

Speaking of the Bruins… they lost on opening night to the Florida Panthers. It was the first time the Bruins have had a losing record (0-1) since October 3, 2018!

Great Little Ceasar’s commercial with the 49ers’ George Kittle: “…everybody but you… Kittle!” Funny.

R.I.P. Luis Tiant (83) – Former Red Sox pitcher, Cuban legend. 19-year MLB pitching career, Tiant went 229-172 with a 3.30 ERA. “Three times an all-star…”, he led the AL in WAR in 1968 with a 1.60 ERA and was in the top 10 7 other seasons. Luis won all three games for the Red Sox in the 1975 World Series including a 155-pitch effort in game 4.

They said it: “At least people still remember me and remember what I did all those years. I know what I’ve had to do with my life, and I’m lucky. I’m lucky I played all those years. God gave me the opportunity to play. What more can you ask? You can’t ask for more than that.” – The late, great Luis Taint in a 2017 interview.

“Looie, Looie, Looie!”

Put Luis Tiant in the Hall!!!!

See above, incorrect. You only die once. You live every day!

Trivia #1 answer: On October 11, 1911, Ty Cobb (AL) and Frank Schulte (NL) are named inaugural MLB MVPs. What did they each receive as a prize? – Cash, a watch, a car, a trophy, a bag of rocks – They each received a car
Trivia #2: Who was Rogers Nelson? – He was the musician better known as Prince

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Do what you have to do so that you can do what you want to do.

Happy National Sausage Pizza Day!

“Take a little trip, take a little trip
Take a little trip and see
Take a little trip, take a little trip
Take a little trip with me”

War (Low Rider)

Bonus:

October 4, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly.

I’m losing motivation folks. This gets old sometimes. Readership is down, response is down. Friday mornings. Just sayin’…

If you want to enjoy a healthier, happier life, you need to avoid assholes, not carbs.

Trivia #1: Which of the following did former president Jimmy Carter not do? – Establish the Department of Energy, was the first president to be born in a hospital, was the first Naval Academy graduate to become president, establish the Department of Education, was the first president to reach the age of 100, was the first president to make a formal state visit to Sub-Saharan Africa
Trivia #2: What does “pixel” stand for?

On this date: October 4, 1535, the Coverdale Bible, the first complete Bible to be published in English, is printed in Antwerp with translations by William Tyndale and Miles Coverdale
October 4, 1895, 1st US Open Men’s Golf, Newport GC: Englishman Horace Rawlins wins inaugural event; beats Willie Dunn of Scotland by 2 strokes
October 4, 194, Boston Patriots’ kicker Gino Cappelletti lands 6-from-6 field goals and 3-from-3 conversions in 39-10 win v Denver Broncos at Bears Stadium, Denver (We need him now. We need something!)
October 4, 2001, Boston Bruins retire future Hockey Hall of Fame defenseman Ray Bourque’s #77 jersey in the NHL season opener at Boston Garden. (Bourque’s gesture the night the Bruins retired Phil Esposito’s #7 is one of the classiest moves I’ve ever seen. Just sayin’.)
October 4, 2015, American rock band Van Halen’s final public performance takes place at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, California.

Speaking of class, good-bye to longtime Red Sox broadcaster Joe Castiglione. One of Colgate’s best!

Go away: Just go away

I hate the Mets, but… that 9th inning last night was something else as NY came back from a 2-0 deficit with two outs to come away with the 4-2 victory.

Don’t be that guy.

Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox are 31-97. Make that 31-104! Make that 32-109. Make that 36-117. 39-120, The 2024 White Sox officially set a new record for Major League Baseball futility Friday in their 4-1 loss to Detroit, which became their 121st loss of the season.

Helene: Gust – West Tampa, FL 107 mph, storm surge – 10.34’ Cedar Key, FL, Rainfall 32.51” Jeter Mountain, NC, 4.9M power outages across 10 states. Many people, not necessarily living in a flood zone, were killed. What a tragedy.

Fun fact: American made products don’t get stuck on cargo ships.

Good news: A New York man who was left paralyzed after a diving accident is starting to regain movement a year after receiving an artificial intelligence-powered implant in his brain. A year ago, Keith Thomas, 46, was only able to move his arms an inch. Today, after the groundbreaking procedure, he is able to extend his arm, grasp a cup and take a drink using only his thoughts and stimulation. 

Time out, you’re doing it wrong. LA Chargers’ coach Jim Harbough (the Harboughs bother me. I’m not sure why) took a timeout last weekend. That seems OK but he had just taken one. You can’t take back-to-back timeouts. DOH!

R.I.P. Kris Kristofferson (88), Dikembe Mutombo (58), Pete Rose (83) John Amos (84)

Put Pete in the Hall!!!!

Trivia #1 answer: Which of the following did former president Jimmy Carter not do? – Establish the Department of Energy, was the first president to be born in a hospital, was the first Naval Academy graduate to become president, establish the Department of Education, was the first president to reach the age of 100, was the first president to make a formal state visit to Sub-Saharan Africa – Jimmy Carter did all of the above
Trivia #2 answer: What does “pixel” stand for? – Picture Element

Someone once said, “if you get on the wrong train, be sure to get off at the first stop. The longer you stay on, the more expensive the return trip is gong to cost you.” They weren’t talking about trains…

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

It’s Friday! Remember, bad decisions make the best stories.!

Happy National Body Language Day! (It’s also National Vodka Day but I’m going to be careful with that one)

“Change, nothing stays the same
Unchained, yeah ya hit the ground running”

Van Halen (Unchained)

Bonus! “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” – Bobby McFerrin

Friday, September 27, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly, ya.

Fun fact: I do my best proofreading after I post.

Studies show that people with high IQs tend to be lazy, or something like that. I didn’t read the whole article.

Good luck to everyone in Helene’s path.

Trivia #1: What MLB plyer has the most all-star starts in left field?
Trivia #2: What is a loonlet?
Trivia #3: On September 17, in what year, did the physics journal Annalen der Physik publish Albert Einstein’s paper “Does the Inertia of a Body Depend Upon Its Energy Content?”, introducing the equation E=mc²? – 1895, 1900, 1905, 1910, 1915

On this date: September 27, 1290, an earthquake in the Gulf of Chihli (Bohai Sea) near China, reportedly kills 100,000 people.
September 27, 1822, French scholar Jean-François Champollion announces he has deciphered Egyptian hieroglyphics using the Rosetta Stone. The Rosetta Stone is considered one of the most famous objects in the British Museum.
September 27, 2006, the Boston Red Sox honor former player Johnny Pesky by officially naming Fenway Park’s right-field foul pole “Pesky’s Pole”

NFL kickoffs stink! Period!

Go away: Helene

DYK: Since taking the reins at Berkshire in the mid-1960’s, Warren Buffet has overseen an aggregate return in his company’s Class A shares of more than 5,400,000%. Comparatively, the S&P 500 has increased in value, including dividends, by around 37,000% over the same span.

DYK, part deux: “Fridgescaping”, it’s a thing. The viral art of “decorating” the inside of a refrigerator as if it’s a room in a home. Huh?

Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox are 31-97. Make that 31-104! Make that 32-109. Make that 36-117. 39-120

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: The market for AI-related hardware and software is expected to grow between 40% and 55% annually, reaching between $780 billion and $990 billion by 2027. Says an analyst, “We were astonished to see the rate at which, for example, the number of companies spending over $100 million in their annual IT budget alone on AI and with large enterprises, that’s doubled. Critically, it’s across the board, with smaller enterprises doubling their spend.”

Article I’ll skip: Jim Cantore switches his hurricane Helene location & people are freaking out.
Article I would have read, if it wasn’t a video: Harvard medical student shares ‘fascinating’ results after eating 720 eggs in a month. (Video, I can’t be bothered)

Trivia #1 answer: What MLB plyer has the most all-star starts in left field? – Ted Williams
Trivia #2 answer: What is a loonlet? – A loonlet is a baby loon. Duh!
Trivia #3 answer: On September 17, in what year, did the physics journal Annalen der Physik publish Albert Einstein’s paper “Does the Inertia of a Body Depend Upon Its Energy Content?”, introducing the equation E=mc²? – 1895, 1900, 1905, 1910, 1915 – September 27, 1905

They said it: “He’s listed as day-to-day, but then again, aren’t we all.” – The late, great Vin Scully

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Chocolate Milk Day!

“You don’t have to read my mind, to know what I have in mind
Honey you oughta know
Now you move so fine, let me lay it on the line
I wanna know what you’re doin’ after the show”

Foreigner (Hot Blooded)

Friday, September 20, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly. I missed you all last week…

Fun fact: I do my best proofreading after I post.

The only thing I learned in geography is that Long Island has the best ice teas.

Trivia #1: Who was the first MLB player to have 200 or more hits in 6 consecutive seasons?
Trivia #2: Who is nicknamed “C Squared?”
Trivia #3: Who was Pudge Heffelfinger?

I checked my symptoms and it turned out I just needed to go camping.

On this date: September 20, 1814, the “Star Spangled Banner” was published as a song, lyrics by Francis Scott Key, tune by John Stafford Smith.
September 20, 1873, panic sweeps NY Stock Exchange (railroad bond default/bank failure) NY shut banks for 10 days due to a bank scandal
September 20, 1954, 1st FORTRAN computer program run. (1954?!)

Shohei Ohtani made MLB history last night becoming the only player with a 50 homerun and 50 stolen base season. And talk about doing it in grand fashion! Ohtani last night had arguably the greatest single game offensive performance ever – 6-for-6, 3 homeruns, 2 doubles, 10 RBI, 4 runs scored and 2 stolen bases. Insane!

Well, we saw a very small sample of the Patriots’ Drake Maye last night. Small yes, unimpressive, yes.

Their defense was lousy too.

Go away: Tua Tagovailoa. Nothing against Tua, but he will miss 4 games after suffering a concussion last week in a game against the Bills. Tua has a history of concussions and should just hang it up. My opinion.

Interesting?? Tua suffered his concussion last week after colliding with the Bills’ Damar Hamlin. Remember him??

Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox are 31-97. Make that 31-104! Make that 32-109. Make that 36-117.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: A convicted serial sexual offender known as the “Pillowcase Rapist” is set to be released in California next month. Christopher Hubbart, 73, was convicted in 1973, 1982 and 1990 in both Los Angeles and Santa Clara counties for a series of rapes and other sex crimes.  He got his nickname because he used pillowcases to muffle the screams of some of his victims. Hubbart admitted to raping more than 100 women throughout California between 1971 and 1983.

Article I’ll skip: Students express concerns about the direction of America ahead of 2024 election.

Some interesting NFL tidbits. After the first two weeks, there have been more field goals across the league than touchdowns! Also, no rookie quarterback has thrown a touchdown pass so far. Hmmm.

A new roller coaster named “Siren’s Curse” features a tilt at 90 degrees and is set to open in 2025 at Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio. You gotta see this thing! Road trip!

Speaking of Caitlyn Clark… Her teams’ away game the other night drew the largest audience to ever watch a WNBA game. Clark finished the season with the most points by a point guard in a single season in WNBA history. She had already clinched the record for most points by a rookie and the league’s single-season assist record. As the single-season record holder and league-leader in assists this year, Clark is the youngest player to ever lead the league in assists. Clark also led the league in 3-pointers this year, and had the second most all-time in a single season with 122. On top of that, she broke the record for most All-Star votes for any player in WNBA history, and became the first rookie to ever record a triple-double. Wowza!

Good news: US to host first AI safety summit this year to boost international collaboration. Hey, it’s worth a shot.

Trivia #1 answer: Who was the first MLB player to have 200 or more hits in 6 consecutive seasons? – The Red Sox’ Wade Boggs
Trivia #2 answer: Who is nicknamed “C Squared?” – Caitlyn Clark
Trivia #3 answer: Who was Pudge Heffelfinger? – Pudge was the first paid professional football player. He was paid $500 to take the field for the Allegheny Athletic Association in an 1892 contest against the rival Pittsburgh Athletic Club. He helped popularize the game by publishing the annual “Heffelfinger’s Football Facts” from 1935 to 1950. It featured news, stats and schedules for both pro and college football. He reportedly played his last game at age 65.

More bacon.

I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Pepperoni Pizza Day!

“Don’t wannna discuss it
Think it’s time for a change
You may get disgusted
Start thinkin’ that I’m strange

In that case I’ll go underground
Get some heavy rest
Never have to worry
About what is worst or what is best”

Van Morrison (Domino)

Bonus: Good Times by Gary Clarke. Great campfire tune.

Friday, September 6, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly. (I had my fantasy football draft last night. “I’m kinda tired”, as Forrest would say)

Fun fact: I do my best proofreading after I post.

Two days ago, I accidently passed my wife a glue stick instead of a Chap Stick. She’s still not talking to me.

Trivia #1: Jeff Driskel is the third string quarterback for which NFL team?
Trivia #2: Who is Khari Blasingame?
Trivia #3: In what city was the first lighthouse in North America built? Bonus: What year? – 1668, 1700, 1716, 1742, 1772, 1802
Trivia #4: Who recorded the guitar tracks for George Harrison’s Beatles song “While My Guitar Gently Weeps?” – Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Peter Ham, Duane Allman, George Harrison

On this date: September 6, 1522, Ferdinand Magellan’s Spanish expedition, now led by Juan Sebastian Elcano, returns to Seville without their captain after a three-year epic voyage, becoming the first to circumnavigate the globe.
September 6, 1899, Carnation processes its first can of evaporated milk.
September 6, 1995, Cal Ripken Jr. plays in his 2,131 straight game breaking Lou Gehrig’s record.

Go away: Nick Saban. While I think he did a pretty good job last Saturday as a college football analyst, his predictions were terrible. Plus, I don’t like him!

Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox are 31-97. Make that 31-104! Make that 32-109.

This week’s sign of the apocalypse: A Navy veteran in California has been entertaining the local community with his creative bubble performances for over 10 years. But Sandy Snakenberg, known as the “Bubble Pirate,” was donning his pirate costume and performing his usual bubble show at La Jolla Cove in San Diego last week when he was issued a ticket by park officials. The ticket alleges that Snakenberg, 63, violated San Diego’s municipal code against littering due to the fluid from his bubbles.

It’s football season! While college football is in full swing, the NFL kicked off yesterday. Not a bad game last night as KC knocked off Baltimore, by a toe!

Article I’ll skip: Taylor Swift, Brittany Mahomes sit separately at game amid Trump support controversy. (Get ready, it’s football season and Taylor is back on your television.)

I don’t always do the wrong thing, but when I do, it’s the wrongiest of all the wrongs that ever wronged.

Good news: Thermal drone footage shows the rescue of a 3-year-old who became lost after he had wandered into a 100-acre corn field alone and at night in Alto, Wisconsin. The video begins with the drone surveying the large expanse of the cornfield of 6-foot-tall corn stalks. The thermal image makes the rows of corn appear as a textured black and white image. At around 9:30 p.m., a bright white shape appears to move through the corn, breaking up the monotonous pattern they form in the frame. It’s the toddler!

R.I.P. Johnny (31) and brother, Matt (29) Gaudreau. Both professional hockey players were killed when cycling and hit by a car. Carneys Point, New Jersey, natives and were set to serve as groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding that was scheduled for last Friday in Philadelphia. Ouch.
R.I.P. Thomas “Tommy” Gagne (68), after a 6 ½ year battle with cancer. As his obituary reads: “Throughout his life, Tom made a significant impact, whether through his business endeavors, being a friend to all or his recent role these past 6 and a half years as an advocate for early cancer detection, reminding people to get their butts checked!” Father of three, “Grank” of 8 grandkids, loving husband and friend. Tommy impacted countless lives with his generosity, kindness, humor and love.

Trivia #1 answer: Jeff Driskel is the third string quarterback for which NFL team? – The Washington Redskins
Trivia #2 answer: Who is Khari Blasingame? – Blasingame is currently listed as the 5th string running back in the Chicago Bears’ offense. Last year Khari rushed 8 times for 26 yards and caught 3 of 6 passes for 2 yards.
Trivia #3 answer: In what city was the first lighthouse in North America built? Bonus: What year? – 1668, 1700, 1716, 1742, 1772, 1802 – It was built in Boston in 1716
Trivia #4 answer: Who recorded the guitar tracks for George Harrison’s Beatles song “While My Guitar Gently Weeps?” – Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Peter Ham, Duane Allman, George Harrison – Eric Clapton

I like red cabbage in my salads. It gives it an extra “crunch” factor.

I’ll be on the bar this afternoon and would love to serve you.

“He put two and two together…” What the heck does that mean? I mean, two and two is four, right?

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Coffee Ice Cream Day!

“Dear Mister Fantasy, play us a tune
Something to make us all happy
Do anything, take us out of this gloom
Sing a song, play guitar, make it snappy”

Traffic (Dear Mr. Fantasy)

Another long one. Just put it on, turn it up and find something to do!

Friday, August 30, 2024

by fasted86

Briefly. (Enjoy your long weekend. Remember, summer ain’t over until you say it is!)

Fun fact: I do my best proofreading after I post.

I don’t understand why banks get upset when you can’t repay a loan. You already knew I had no money when I came to borrow it!

Trivia #1: Aaron Judge is just the 5th player in MLB history with 50+ homeruns in a season. Which two of the following are not in the group? – Alex Rodriguez, Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Bonds, Babe Ruth, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire
Trivia #2: What quarterback has the most passing yards on opening day? – Tua Tagovailoa, Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Dan Marino, Mark Rypien
Trivia #3: What has 4 letters, sometimes 9 letters, but never has 5 letters?
Trivia #4: What team had the best regular season record in the NFL last season at 13-4? – Buffalo, Baltimore, San Francisco, Kansas City, Dallas, Detroit

On this date: August 30, 1862, Second Battle of Bull Run in Manassas, Virginia, ends with a Confederate victory over Union forces
August 30, 1890, President Benjamin Harrison signed the first U.S. law requiring inspection of meat products.
August 30, 1972, Slalom canoeing is introduced at the Munich Olympics with East Germany winning all 4 events. Hmmm
August 30, 1979, 1st recorded occurrence of a comet hitting the sun, releases energy equal to one million hydrogen bombs. Chew on that for a minute.
August 30, 1993, Billy Joel performs on the debut of “The David Letterman Show”

Speaking of chewing on something for a minute… The Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani is looking to become the first player ever hitting 50+ homeruns and stealing 50+ bases in a season. How can you not root for that! (Well, he is a Dodger I guess…)

Meanwhile, back in Boston… the Red Sox’ Jarren Duran Duran became the first player eva with >=40 doubles, >=10 triples, >=20 homeruns and >=30 stolen bases in a single season.

Oh ya, the Patriots. Jacoby Brissett will be your starting quarterback a week from Sunday against the Cincinnati Bungals. The Pats are currently 9 ½ underdogs.

Go away: Dallas Cowboys owner and GM Jerry Jones

Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox are 31-97. Make that 31-104!

This week’s sign of the apocalypse:

Chris Sale has now thrown more innings this year than he did in his last 4 years combined for the Red Sox. Wowza!

Don’t look now but tennis is going on…

It’s football season!

Poor guy: Last weekend, the PGA’s Thomas Detry tied for 31st place and did not qualify for this weekend’s championship. In doing so he won $142,500.

I really like baked beans.

Article I’ll skip: Late fitness guru Richard Simmons’ toxicology report released

Silly putty implies the existence of serious putty.

Trivia #1 answer: Aaron Judge is just the 5th player in MLB history with 50+ homeruns in a season. Which two of the following are not in the group? – Alex Rodriguez, Ken Griffey Jr, Barry Bonds, Babe Ruth, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire – Barry Bonds and Ken Griffey Jr.
Trivia #2 answer: What quarterback has the most passing yards on opening day? – Tua Tagovailoa, Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Dan Marino, Mark Rypien – Tom Brady (517 yards) against the Dolphins in 2011
Trivia #3 answer: What has 4 letters, sometimes 9 letters, but never has 5 letters? – Correct!
Trivia #4 answer: What team had the best regular season record in the NFL last season at 13-4? – Buffalo, Baltimore, San Francisco, Kansas City, Dallas, Detroit – Baltimore

Coke or Pepsi? I’m a Coke guy, every day!

Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.

Be careful out there. (It’s a jungle!)

Happy National Beach Day!

“You had to have the last word, last night
You’re so much fun to be around
You had to have the front page, bold type
You had to be a big shot last night”

– Billy Joel (Big Shot)

Totally random bonus track!