GEOGRAPHY is the topic of today's trivia quiz..
1. How many U.S. states end with the letter N ?
2. What are the only two states that incorporate the Confederate battle flag in their flags?
3. What Nevada city got its name from the Spanish for "reindeer"?
4. What's the claim to fame of Siberia's Lake Baikal?
5. How many great pyramids are there at Giza?
6. What's the northernmost state the Mason-Dixon line passes through?
7. What European country's official language is Erse?
8. What Midwestern state's song is Home on the Range?
9, How many oceans does the equator pass through?
10. Does the sand on Florida beaches get harder or softer the farther south you go?
ANSWERS-
1. Four
2. Georgia and Mississippi
3. Reno
4. It's the world's deepest
5. Three
6. New Jersey
7. Ireland
8. Kansas
9. Three
10. Harder
Thursday, August 31, 2017
REVIEW: KEITH URBAN AT THE GREAT ALLENTOWN FAIR
**** 1/2 (out of five stars)
I saw country superstar Keith Urban last night at the Grandstand at the great Allentown Fair. I had never seen him in concert before. Country music is just OK to me,but I have always liked Urban's cross-over style, country yet pop/rock spiced in too. He is at the end of a long world tour in junction with his latest album called "Ripcord."
It was a perfect evening for a concert, warm but cool after the sunset, with a breeze blowing. The crowd nearly filled the fairgrounds with tons of people ( mostly female, 20-60) packed into the massive grandstand and the standing room-only section in front of the stage.
Urban is one of the best guitarists in the world and he didn't disappoint at Allentown. He played a lot of songs from Ripcord ( which was fine by me)but sprinkled in some chestnuts from his impressive career.
Here are some highlights:
* The opening songs were scorchers, "Gone Tomorrow, Here Today" and "Long Hot Summer." "Break On me", the emotional ballad form Ripcord was a nice change of pace early on.
* Keith was checking out the many signs in the crowd ( while taking a much-needed breather) and called a young , female kindergarten teacher up on stage for a relaxed, fun banter. The singer then called her boyfriend on the stage, where Urban hinted jokingly about getting engaged. They all ended up taking a selfie at the end.
* I never saw a performer interact more with their fans as Urban did. He was constantly talking to the crowd, thanking "Allentown" or " Pa" for coming out.He roamed the stage,calling the audience "family." * During "You Look Good In My Shirt" Urban surprisingly left the stage, making his way up one aisle, as deliriously happy fans watched him go to the front of the grandstand, calling out "Who's got the good seats now?"
He suddenly gave away the green electric guitar he had been playing to a delighted female fan before making his way again by clawing, adoring fans back to the stage to finish the song. Apparently he gives away a guitar at every show.Again, he wasn't afraid to interact and get close to the fans.
* Carrie Underwood was shown on the video screens, doing her duet with Urban on "The Fighter." "Blue Ain't Your Color" was done nicely; "John Cougar, John Deere John 3:16" was spirited and got the crowd cheering, clapping and singing along;"Wasted Time" closed the opening set.
* The encore consisted of a really old song called "You Are Everything To Me", done acoustically, no band, and the grand finale was "Raise 'Em Up", Then Urban did something I had never seen before.
As the band members took their bows and disappeared off-stage, Urban hung around and shook hands and rapidly signed autographs with the front row. Even while people start to file out, Urban was still signing still. It looked like he was having such a blast too that he didn't want the magical night to end.
Two giant semi-trucks were backed-up to the back of the stage, the equipment was quickly loaded on, even as fans flocked out into the night, and it was onto the next show.
* The guy isn't old-49- and he is in obviously great shape, but I was still in awe of his energy,which pretty much lasted the entire time he was on-stage ( a little over 2 hours). He's got a quick sense of humor and seems to be a nice guy. In fact, one of the criticisms of Urban while he was a judge on American Idol was that he was too nice to the terrible singing contestants. He always laid out his rejections with an apology.
All in all, a great show! Enough songs to keep everyone happy. On a beautiful late summer night, it was all one could hope for.
Urban's opening act was a new, young singer named Lindsey Ell. The difference between her and any other young, female, blonde and pretty Country/Rock singer was that this girls played lead electric guitar during her 45- minute set.
Her original music wasn't anything special, but give her credit for trying and for her energy. Not easy being an opening act, but the crowd was cordial. They didn't boo, especially since it seemed like her set dragged on forever.
The highlights were actually two covers: "Are You Going My Way", the classic song for Lenny Kravitz .and a refreshing "Beat It" from Michael Jackson.
At first I thought, 'Beat It?' Give me a break. And I immediately remembered Jackson, the album "Thriller", and strangely, allegations of child abuse.
But then it was OK. No Eddie Van Halen on guitar, but OK.
*****************************************************************
The Allentown Fair itself was fun. Typical fair food ( I haven't had funnel cake in ages), events ( Marvelous Mutts, dog tricks; pig racing and goat judging; and a real cowboy from Idaho, displaying hiss western skills on such things as roping, throwing Bowie knives, quick draw and fancy six-shooter gun handling); and and lots of arts and crafts to buy.
Parking was easy and the lay-out of the grounds was accessible for the most part.
Going back tomorrow for more funnel cake and the country group, Rascal Flatts.
I saw country superstar Keith Urban last night at the Grandstand at the great Allentown Fair. I had never seen him in concert before. Country music is just OK to me,but I have always liked Urban's cross-over style, country yet pop/rock spiced in too. He is at the end of a long world tour in junction with his latest album called "Ripcord."
It was a perfect evening for a concert, warm but cool after the sunset, with a breeze blowing. The crowd nearly filled the fairgrounds with tons of people ( mostly female, 20-60) packed into the massive grandstand and the standing room-only section in front of the stage.
Urban is one of the best guitarists in the world and he didn't disappoint at Allentown. He played a lot of songs from Ripcord ( which was fine by me)but sprinkled in some chestnuts from his impressive career.
Here are some highlights:
* The opening songs were scorchers, "Gone Tomorrow, Here Today" and "Long Hot Summer." "Break On me", the emotional ballad form Ripcord was a nice change of pace early on.
* Keith was checking out the many signs in the crowd ( while taking a much-needed breather) and called a young , female kindergarten teacher up on stage for a relaxed, fun banter. The singer then called her boyfriend on the stage, where Urban hinted jokingly about getting engaged. They all ended up taking a selfie at the end.
* I never saw a performer interact more with their fans as Urban did. He was constantly talking to the crowd, thanking "Allentown" or " Pa" for coming out.He roamed the stage,calling the audience "family." * During "You Look Good In My Shirt" Urban surprisingly left the stage, making his way up one aisle, as deliriously happy fans watched him go to the front of the grandstand, calling out "Who's got the good seats now?"
He suddenly gave away the green electric guitar he had been playing to a delighted female fan before making his way again by clawing, adoring fans back to the stage to finish the song. Apparently he gives away a guitar at every show.Again, he wasn't afraid to interact and get close to the fans.
* Carrie Underwood was shown on the video screens, doing her duet with Urban on "The Fighter." "Blue Ain't Your Color" was done nicely; "John Cougar, John Deere John 3:16" was spirited and got the crowd cheering, clapping and singing along;"Wasted Time" closed the opening set.
* The encore consisted of a really old song called "You Are Everything To Me", done acoustically, no band, and the grand finale was "Raise 'Em Up", Then Urban did something I had never seen before.
As the band members took their bows and disappeared off-stage, Urban hung around and shook hands and rapidly signed autographs with the front row. Even while people start to file out, Urban was still signing still. It looked like he was having such a blast too that he didn't want the magical night to end.
Two giant semi-trucks were backed-up to the back of the stage, the equipment was quickly loaded on, even as fans flocked out into the night, and it was onto the next show.
* The guy isn't old-49- and he is in obviously great shape, but I was still in awe of his energy,which pretty much lasted the entire time he was on-stage ( a little over 2 hours). He's got a quick sense of humor and seems to be a nice guy. In fact, one of the criticisms of Urban while he was a judge on American Idol was that he was too nice to the terrible singing contestants. He always laid out his rejections with an apology.
All in all, a great show! Enough songs to keep everyone happy. On a beautiful late summer night, it was all one could hope for.
Urban's opening act was a new, young singer named Lindsey Ell. The difference between her and any other young, female, blonde and pretty Country/Rock singer was that this girls played lead electric guitar during her 45- minute set.
Her original music wasn't anything special, but give her credit for trying and for her energy. Not easy being an opening act, but the crowd was cordial. They didn't boo, especially since it seemed like her set dragged on forever.
The highlights were actually two covers: "Are You Going My Way", the classic song for Lenny Kravitz .and a refreshing "Beat It" from Michael Jackson.
At first I thought, 'Beat It?' Give me a break. And I immediately remembered Jackson, the album "Thriller", and strangely, allegations of child abuse.
But then it was OK. No Eddie Van Halen on guitar, but OK.
*****************************************************************
The Allentown Fair itself was fun. Typical fair food ( I haven't had funnel cake in ages), events ( Marvelous Mutts, dog tricks; pig racing and goat judging; and a real cowboy from Idaho, displaying hiss western skills on such things as roping, throwing Bowie knives, quick draw and fancy six-shooter gun handling); and and lots of arts and crafts to buy.
Parking was easy and the lay-out of the grounds was accessible for the most part.
Going back tomorrow for more funnel cake and the country group, Rascal Flatts.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER
My thoughts on Philly sports for this Thursday morning..
PHILLIES-
* Thanks Cameron Rupp.
After beating the Braves Monday night for the 12th time out of 14 games this season, the Phillies' catcher made a really stupid remark, quipping "I wish we could play these guys everyday."
Even if you mean it, don't be such a moron to say it.
The Braves were pissed and beat the Phils in a doubleheader yesterday afternoon. This is the same guy who has handled the young, often struggling pitchers this ugly summer. Same with bad pitching coach Bob McClure, who should be fired immediately after the season mercifully ends.
The team now has 83 losses on the season with all of September to go Four games await with the hot Dodgers, seven more with the division-leading Nationals. That's eight or nine defeats right there. 100 losses is almost certain, the first 100-loss season for a Philadelphia Phillies organization since 1961.
The team has exactly 30 games left. They need t win 14 of those games to avoid 100 losses. With a depleted pitching staff and chaos with the position players moving around ( more on that) and the September call-ups, I would bet on 100 losses for sure.
Embarrassing.
* What the hell is the front office thinking? They are playing musical chairs with their position players, both in Philadelphia and in Lehigh Valley.
The worst move was moving a Gold Glove shortstop in Freddie Galvis to center field in yesterday's second game of the doubleheader.
That move smacks o goofy GM Matt Klentak, who had a meeting earlier in the week with Galvis and manager Pete Mackanin. If it was Mackanin's idea he would've trued Freddie in center long ago. This is Klentak with no plan, no experience, winging it. I can't stand the guy.
Altherr and Herrera will be back soon fron the disabled list. Prospect J.P. Crawford may be up with the big club as soon as Tuesday in New York. The Iron Pigs season end son Monday. So why not just leave Freddie at shortstop, and lay Crawford several times a week? I get it the Galvis wants to play all 162 games (why? I'm not sure). But that can be achieved without moving Galvis to a position which he has never played before.
It's stupid, just like most of the idiotic ideas the Phillies' front office- especially geeky Klentak- has cooked up this season. They justify the moves by saying it gives the club more options and flexibility. In other words, in case we screw-up, there's a Plan B and C.
* Jared Eichoff left the first game of the doubleheader in the 3rd inning with "nerve irritation" in his pitching hand. Not good.
I have never seen why the coaches, front office and even the media have swooned over Eichoff. He's a workhorse and has tremendous potential, etc. In other words, he hasn't done a damn thing yet. To me, he is just another young pitcher who has failed so far. That's the bottom line.
* Hard to believe that Ender Inciartewas once a Phillie. The Atlanta center fielder had an astounding eight hits in yesterday's doubleheader. one shy of the major league record. Inciarte is hitting .310 and is near the top of the league in hits. He leads the National League in singles and plays a tremendous center field.
So, how did the Phillies let him go during spring training a few years ago? Another poor player evaluation instance of this woeful organization.
EAGLES-
* The Eagles decided to take a pass on CB Joe Hayden, the same Haden that starred for the Cleveland Browns. Hayden, less than a day after being released by the Browns, signed a 3-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
I still expect the Birds to upgrade their secondary situation before the season begins. Cuts have to be made by Saturday afternoon. The team juggled their roster last year, and I would look for them to do the same thing this year, perhaps even signing a running back or more depth for the offensive and defensive lines.
* Will Nick Foles play tonight in the final pre-season game against the Jets in New York? I would feel better if he did. He hasn't played in a real game because of a sore right elbow. His practice time has been limited as well.Rumors are that the Eagles will roll the dice and only keep two quarterbacks on the roster, Wentz and Foles. That's OK with me, as I'm not a McGloin fan nor do I want them to sign a QB off the waiver wire.
Again, even though the starters won't play, no injuries will be key.
* I have registered for Glen Macnow's Last Fan Standing pool again for 2017. I made it to week 11 last year, so I'm giving it another try. It's a fun thing, and who knows?
If you want to join the pool, go to www.cbsphilly/lastfanstanding. com
COLLEGE BASKETBALL-
Former Villanova basketball coach Rollie Massimino died yesterday, after a battle with cancer.
Daddy Mass, as he was known, was the coach of the underdog 1985 national championship Wildcat squad which upset Georgetown- and Patrick Ewing- for the crown.
All due respects to Massimino, but I'll also remember Rollie as the guy who ended the Big Five as we know it for a while. Villanova was becoming elite, wanted to branch-out on its own leaving the iconic Palestra to play it's home games on the Villanova campus. They no longer wanted to play the other Big Five city teams, no more City Series, no more palestra doubleheaders. Instead of embracing the traditions Villanova, led by Massimino,were drifting away.
Now with Jay Wright as coach, the Big Five traditions are somewhat back. Not all Big Five games are held at the Palestra. And doubleheaders don't exist anymore. But at least the 4 teams ( along witgh Drexel) do play each other once a season.
In my opinion, John Chaney and Jack Ramsey were better Big Five coaches than Massimino. but Rollie did win the big one, so you gotta give him his due.
PHILLIES-
* Thanks Cameron Rupp.
After beating the Braves Monday night for the 12th time out of 14 games this season, the Phillies' catcher made a really stupid remark, quipping "I wish we could play these guys everyday."
Even if you mean it, don't be such a moron to say it.
The Braves were pissed and beat the Phils in a doubleheader yesterday afternoon. This is the same guy who has handled the young, often struggling pitchers this ugly summer. Same with bad pitching coach Bob McClure, who should be fired immediately after the season mercifully ends.
The team now has 83 losses on the season with all of September to go Four games await with the hot Dodgers, seven more with the division-leading Nationals. That's eight or nine defeats right there. 100 losses is almost certain, the first 100-loss season for a Philadelphia Phillies organization since 1961.
The team has exactly 30 games left. They need t win 14 of those games to avoid 100 losses. With a depleted pitching staff and chaos with the position players moving around ( more on that) and the September call-ups, I would bet on 100 losses for sure.
Embarrassing.
* What the hell is the front office thinking? They are playing musical chairs with their position players, both in Philadelphia and in Lehigh Valley.
The worst move was moving a Gold Glove shortstop in Freddie Galvis to center field in yesterday's second game of the doubleheader.
That move smacks o goofy GM Matt Klentak, who had a meeting earlier in the week with Galvis and manager Pete Mackanin. If it was Mackanin's idea he would've trued Freddie in center long ago. This is Klentak with no plan, no experience, winging it. I can't stand the guy.
Altherr and Herrera will be back soon fron the disabled list. Prospect J.P. Crawford may be up with the big club as soon as Tuesday in New York. The Iron Pigs season end son Monday. So why not just leave Freddie at shortstop, and lay Crawford several times a week? I get it the Galvis wants to play all 162 games (why? I'm not sure). But that can be achieved without moving Galvis to a position which he has never played before.
It's stupid, just like most of the idiotic ideas the Phillies' front office- especially geeky Klentak- has cooked up this season. They justify the moves by saying it gives the club more options and flexibility. In other words, in case we screw-up, there's a Plan B and C.
* Jared Eichoff left the first game of the doubleheader in the 3rd inning with "nerve irritation" in his pitching hand. Not good.
I have never seen why the coaches, front office and even the media have swooned over Eichoff. He's a workhorse and has tremendous potential, etc. In other words, he hasn't done a damn thing yet. To me, he is just another young pitcher who has failed so far. That's the bottom line.
* Hard to believe that Ender Inciartewas once a Phillie. The Atlanta center fielder had an astounding eight hits in yesterday's doubleheader. one shy of the major league record. Inciarte is hitting .310 and is near the top of the league in hits. He leads the National League in singles and plays a tremendous center field.
So, how did the Phillies let him go during spring training a few years ago? Another poor player evaluation instance of this woeful organization.
EAGLES-
* The Eagles decided to take a pass on CB Joe Hayden, the same Haden that starred for the Cleveland Browns. Hayden, less than a day after being released by the Browns, signed a 3-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
I still expect the Birds to upgrade their secondary situation before the season begins. Cuts have to be made by Saturday afternoon. The team juggled their roster last year, and I would look for them to do the same thing this year, perhaps even signing a running back or more depth for the offensive and defensive lines.
* Will Nick Foles play tonight in the final pre-season game against the Jets in New York? I would feel better if he did. He hasn't played in a real game because of a sore right elbow. His practice time has been limited as well.Rumors are that the Eagles will roll the dice and only keep two quarterbacks on the roster, Wentz and Foles. That's OK with me, as I'm not a McGloin fan nor do I want them to sign a QB off the waiver wire.
Again, even though the starters won't play, no injuries will be key.
* I have registered for Glen Macnow's Last Fan Standing pool again for 2017. I made it to week 11 last year, so I'm giving it another try. It's a fun thing, and who knows?
If you want to join the pool, go to www.cbsphilly/lastfanstanding. com
COLLEGE BASKETBALL-
Former Villanova basketball coach Rollie Massimino died yesterday, after a battle with cancer.
Daddy Mass, as he was known, was the coach of the underdog 1985 national championship Wildcat squad which upset Georgetown- and Patrick Ewing- for the crown.
All due respects to Massimino, but I'll also remember Rollie as the guy who ended the Big Five as we know it for a while. Villanova was becoming elite, wanted to branch-out on its own leaving the iconic Palestra to play it's home games on the Villanova campus. They no longer wanted to play the other Big Five city teams, no more City Series, no more palestra doubleheaders. Instead of embracing the traditions Villanova, led by Massimino,were drifting away.
Now with Jay Wright as coach, the Big Five traditions are somewhat back. Not all Big Five games are held at the Palestra. And doubleheaders don't exist anymore. But at least the 4 teams ( along witgh Drexel) do play each other once a season.
In my opinion, John Chaney and Jack Ramsey were better Big Five coaches than Massimino. but Rollie did win the big one, so you gotta give him his due.
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ-POT LUCK
Anything goes with the quiz today...
1. Are drone bees male or female?
2. What country hsa the most hospitals?
3. What did Daniel Boone call his rifle?
4. What color is the stripe on the 9-ball in pool?
5. What other flower is mentioned in the song Red Roses for a Blue Lady?
6. How many time zones are there in Florida?
7. Who played Father Duffy, Father O'Hara, Father Connolly and Father Dunne in the movies?
8. What President was dubbed The Man from Abilene?
9. What's the prime cause of forest fires?
10. The year 2000 in the Chinese calendar was the year of what?
ANSWERS-
1. Male
2. The United States
3. Tick Licker
4. Yellow
5. A white orchid
6. Two
7. Pat O'Brien
8. Dwight D. Eisenhower
9. Lightning
10. The dragon
1. Are drone bees male or female?
2. What country hsa the most hospitals?
3. What did Daniel Boone call his rifle?
4. What color is the stripe on the 9-ball in pool?
5. What other flower is mentioned in the song Red Roses for a Blue Lady?
6. How many time zones are there in Florida?
7. Who played Father Duffy, Father O'Hara, Father Connolly and Father Dunne in the movies?
8. What President was dubbed The Man from Abilene?
9. What's the prime cause of forest fires?
10. The year 2000 in the Chinese calendar was the year of what?
ANSWERS-
1. Male
2. The United States
3. Tick Licker
4. Yellow
5. A white orchid
6. Two
7. Pat O'Brien
8. Dwight D. Eisenhower
9. Lightning
10. The dragon
IN THE NEWS- HARVEY BRINGS UNIQUE CHALLENGES FOR THOSE WITH DISABILITIES
From The Houston Chronicle...
The upending of normalcy during the worst tropical weather system ever to git Houston is particularly hard on those with special needs, and disability advocates and families are working to help them cope.
The Autism Society of Texas has providers from Austin, as well as partners from surrounding communities, heading to shelters to offer resources and support, executive director Suzanne Potts said.
The organization is working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Red Cross to assess needs. What's en route: sensory-support bags containing stuffed animals, fidget toys, weighted blankets, earplugs and noise-canceling headphones, notepads and crayons.
"There's an overwhelming need for saneness," Potts said. "A sense of consistency and creating a routine are critical."
The Red Cross has asked for respite care and behavioral- intervention guidance for those struggling to adjust to the crowds, noise and lighting at shelters, including the one at Houston's George R. Brown Convention Center, Potts said. Her outfit has advised creating a dimly lit quiet space, if possible, and posting a visual schedule like many people with autism rely on to know when meals will be served, for example.
The Autism Society also is distributing H-E-B and Walmart gift cards to anyone displaced by the storm- handy for those with dietary restrictions.
Potts suggested people at shelters find other families of those with special needs for comfort. And whether at a shelter or home, Potts, a licensed social worker, offered caregivers this advice: "Focus on the here and now- don't look too far forward or too far back...Manage your own self-care. Take a walk if it's safe.
"Give yourself a break. If your child is getting more screen time than normal, that's OK...Lower your standards and just get through today."
For those with physical disabilities, Easter Seals of Greater Houston is aiming to speed recovery for affected families whose costly and vital medical equipment, wheelchairs and assistive technology devices are not covered by insurance, Its case managers stand ready to help.
"Emergency funding for our clients is of the utmost importance to help them in their time of need, when our families with children and adults with disabilities are already stressed and stretched to the max financially and emotionally, the group's Facebook page reads.
Staying occupied will keep cabin fever at bay, said Ingrid Monroy, whose nonprofit Mikey's Place provides resources to families raising children with disabilities in Greater Houston.
In addition to having kids play cards or work on math skills, she recommended getting creative and resourceful to help them manage. Her son, Mikey, a stroke survivor, has been riding his adaptive bicycle in the garage.
"Think old-school entertainment- especially if the power is off." Monroy said. "They need some kind of physical activity to burn off steam."
The upending of normalcy during the worst tropical weather system ever to git Houston is particularly hard on those with special needs, and disability advocates and families are working to help them cope.
The Autism Society of Texas has providers from Austin, as well as partners from surrounding communities, heading to shelters to offer resources and support, executive director Suzanne Potts said.
The organization is working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Red Cross to assess needs. What's en route: sensory-support bags containing stuffed animals, fidget toys, weighted blankets, earplugs and noise-canceling headphones, notepads and crayons.
"There's an overwhelming need for saneness," Potts said. "A sense of consistency and creating a routine are critical."
The Red Cross has asked for respite care and behavioral- intervention guidance for those struggling to adjust to the crowds, noise and lighting at shelters, including the one at Houston's George R. Brown Convention Center, Potts said. Her outfit has advised creating a dimly lit quiet space, if possible, and posting a visual schedule like many people with autism rely on to know when meals will be served, for example.
The Autism Society also is distributing H-E-B and Walmart gift cards to anyone displaced by the storm- handy for those with dietary restrictions.
Potts suggested people at shelters find other families of those with special needs for comfort. And whether at a shelter or home, Potts, a licensed social worker, offered caregivers this advice: "Focus on the here and now- don't look too far forward or too far back...Manage your own self-care. Take a walk if it's safe.
"Give yourself a break. If your child is getting more screen time than normal, that's OK...Lower your standards and just get through today."
For those with physical disabilities, Easter Seals of Greater Houston is aiming to speed recovery for affected families whose costly and vital medical equipment, wheelchairs and assistive technology devices are not covered by insurance, Its case managers stand ready to help.
"Emergency funding for our clients is of the utmost importance to help them in their time of need, when our families with children and adults with disabilities are already stressed and stretched to the max financially and emotionally, the group's Facebook page reads.
Staying occupied will keep cabin fever at bay, said Ingrid Monroy, whose nonprofit Mikey's Place provides resources to families raising children with disabilities in Greater Houston.
In addition to having kids play cards or work on math skills, she recommended getting creative and resourceful to help them manage. Her son, Mikey, a stroke survivor, has been riding his adaptive bicycle in the garage.
"Think old-school entertainment- especially if the power is off." Monroy said. "They need some kind of physical activity to burn off steam."
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ-ANYTHING GOES
Today's quiz is POT LUCK- anything goes...
1. Who wa solder- Cain or Abel?
2. Are there more male or female alcoholics?
3. What continent would a bottle thrown into the Japanese Current likely wash up on?
4. What triple Crown racetrack is the U.S.'s oldest and largest horse racing facility?
5. Did Eva Braun ever marry Adolf Hitler?
6. What kind of tree is most often struck by lightning?
7. What color is the famed marble Doge's Palace in Venice?
8. What was the first major city bombed by airplane, on August 30, 1913?
9. What card suit originally represented the peasant class?
10. What became the U.S.'s top farming state in 1943?
ANSWERS-
1. Cain
2. Males
3. North America
4. Belmont Park
5. Yes
6. The oak
7. Pink
8. Clubs
10. California
1. Who wa solder- Cain or Abel?
2. Are there more male or female alcoholics?
3. What continent would a bottle thrown into the Japanese Current likely wash up on?
4. What triple Crown racetrack is the U.S.'s oldest and largest horse racing facility?
5. Did Eva Braun ever marry Adolf Hitler?
6. What kind of tree is most often struck by lightning?
7. What color is the famed marble Doge's Palace in Venice?
8. What was the first major city bombed by airplane, on August 30, 1913?
9. What card suit originally represented the peasant class?
10. What became the U.S.'s top farming state in 1943?
ANSWERS-
1. Cain
2. Males
3. North America
4. Belmont Park
5. Yes
6. The oak
7. Pink
8. Clubs
10. California
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER
* The Eagles traded long snapper Jon Dorenbos last night to the New Orleans Saints for a 2019 seventh-round draft pick.
Dorenbos was the longest tenured Philadelphia athlete. He was an excellent long snapper and gained national fame last year by performing magic on the TV show "America's Got Talent."
I have memories of Jon. My first time at Eagles training camp in Lehigh, I remember Jon kneeling close to me on the sidelines as we watched morning practice. it was a really hot August day, and Jon was playfully teasing the Eagle fans in the stands by threatening to spray all of us with a water hose.
His interactions with fans is well-known and will be missed. He was dun, had personality and showed us that a football player can be just a regular guy too.
Rick Lovato will take over long snapping duties. He filled in for Dorenbos last season after Dorenbois suffered a gruesome wrist dislocation. Lovato will be on the hot seat. One bad snap on a punt or field goal and fans will compare him to Dorenbos, criticizing the front office for dealing the popular Dorenbois
. Lovato better be perfect.
* The Phillies once again beat up on the Atlanta Braves last night, their 7th straight victory this season at Citizens bank park over the Braves. The Phils are 12-2 against Atlanta this summer, with five games left on the schedule.
Rhys Hoskins did not homer last night but he did single and double.He played first base, his natural position. I think we will see more and more of Hoskins at first, as the organization wants to see him there for next year. It's pretty clear that Tommy Joseph will be gone in 2018. Plus the team needs to open outfield spots, with Herrera, Williams, Altherr all fighting for playing time. Add Dylan Couzins to the mix and it makes sense to keep Hoskins at first base where he belongs.
Aaron Nola got his 10th win. He was out a month, so he could very well be around 13-15 wins. He will be the ace in 2018, with several free agents pitchers or trades filling out the rotation, aside from the muttled young candidates like Efflin, Pivetta, Thompson, Eischelman, Valasquez and Lively.
Funny, not too long ago the team seemed to have depth at pitching and their position players were a concern. All of a sudden it's reversed: the position players and the offense have stepped up and we haven't seen Crawford or Kingery yet) and the young pitching staff has regressed.
Pitching coach Bob McClure is all but gone, as are many, if not all, of the coaches.
* The Flyers are retiring Eric Lindros' No. 88 in a ceremony on January 18. Good for Lindros, who has turned his fate around with Flyer fans. Maybe Lindros never did live up to all of hype surrounding him, but he still was a great player. Injuries hampered him as did off the ice controversies, especially regarding contract disputes and his father.
The Wells Fargo center will be an interesting venue this fall and winter sports season, with the Flyers expected to improve and push their young talent, and the Sixers showcasing their litany of young stars. Suddenly, it will be the place to be once again, after recent seasons of gloom. Finally there is hope and excitement for our winter teams.A reason to watch and attend the games again, if one can afford to do so.
Dorenbos was the longest tenured Philadelphia athlete. He was an excellent long snapper and gained national fame last year by performing magic on the TV show "America's Got Talent."
I have memories of Jon. My first time at Eagles training camp in Lehigh, I remember Jon kneeling close to me on the sidelines as we watched morning practice. it was a really hot August day, and Jon was playfully teasing the Eagle fans in the stands by threatening to spray all of us with a water hose.
His interactions with fans is well-known and will be missed. He was dun, had personality and showed us that a football player can be just a regular guy too.
Rick Lovato will take over long snapping duties. He filled in for Dorenbos last season after Dorenbois suffered a gruesome wrist dislocation. Lovato will be on the hot seat. One bad snap on a punt or field goal and fans will compare him to Dorenbos, criticizing the front office for dealing the popular Dorenbois
. Lovato better be perfect.
* The Phillies once again beat up on the Atlanta Braves last night, their 7th straight victory this season at Citizens bank park over the Braves. The Phils are 12-2 against Atlanta this summer, with five games left on the schedule.
Rhys Hoskins did not homer last night but he did single and double.He played first base, his natural position. I think we will see more and more of Hoskins at first, as the organization wants to see him there for next year. It's pretty clear that Tommy Joseph will be gone in 2018. Plus the team needs to open outfield spots, with Herrera, Williams, Altherr all fighting for playing time. Add Dylan Couzins to the mix and it makes sense to keep Hoskins at first base where he belongs.
Aaron Nola got his 10th win. He was out a month, so he could very well be around 13-15 wins. He will be the ace in 2018, with several free agents pitchers or trades filling out the rotation, aside from the muttled young candidates like Efflin, Pivetta, Thompson, Eischelman, Valasquez and Lively.
Funny, not too long ago the team seemed to have depth at pitching and their position players were a concern. All of a sudden it's reversed: the position players and the offense have stepped up and we haven't seen Crawford or Kingery yet) and the young pitching staff has regressed.
Pitching coach Bob McClure is all but gone, as are many, if not all, of the coaches.
* The Flyers are retiring Eric Lindros' No. 88 in a ceremony on January 18. Good for Lindros, who has turned his fate around with Flyer fans. Maybe Lindros never did live up to all of hype surrounding him, but he still was a great player. Injuries hampered him as did off the ice controversies, especially regarding contract disputes and his father.
The Wells Fargo center will be an interesting venue this fall and winter sports season, with the Flyers expected to improve and push their young talent, and the Sixers showcasing their litany of young stars. Suddenly, it will be the place to be once again, after recent seasons of gloom. Finally there is hope and excitement for our winter teams.A reason to watch and attend the games again, if one can afford to do so.
Monday, August 28, 2017
IN MY LIFE-BACK TO SCHOOL
* Where I live. today is the first day of school for many kids. Summer sure went fast, as it always does. I didn't mind going back so much. I would miss sleeping in late, but by the end of summer that got old. I would miss doing whatever I wanted to do every day. I would miss the warm weather and all that comes with summertime.
But usually I was ready...ready to see old friends and make new ones. Ready to use my brand new school supplies . Back when I was a kid we had metal lunch-boxes and thermal mugs; brown paper bags and wax paper for the food. That's if I was packing my lunch, which was often the case.
The first day was always hectic. meeting new teachers and getting used to the class schedule. And there was usually homework to be done, even on the first day.
In high school, especially as a senior, the first day back was more than welcomed as it meant getting closer to graduation. The fall semester of the senior year seems the longest, as in the spring you're planning on graduation and life beyond.
The worst part of the first day was knowing that you wouldn't be off again until Thanksgiving. It seemed so long. Then the Christmas holidays. Spring break wasn't too much longer after that. But from September until next June, it seemed like eternity.
Notice I wrote September. Back in the day we didn't start the next year of school until the day after Labor Day. Now, it generally begins for almost everyone in August. I guess they want to get in as much nice weather in case there are too many snow days in the winter.
Labor Day weekend was like walking the Green Mile. The first part was all-out fun, be it cook-outs, at the beach or just hanging, watching the Phillies, the Jerry Lewis telethon on TV, partying like it was 1999.
Labor Day itself was sort of anti-clamatic, and Labor Day night was awful, getting out your school clothes for the next day, making sure your supplies were ready, going to bed way too early ( we never went ot bed early a few weeks before Labor day to get used to the new routine- we went cold turkey).
It really didn't hit me about school starting again and the summer ending until the next morning when reality set in.
When I started college, my first day was different. It was the first time I had actually attended a so-called "regular" school for able-bodied students. In the past, it was either attending an accessible school for kids with disabilities; having teachers come to my house after school-hours; or using the intercom system hooked up from my bedroom to Phoenixville High's classes.
So, there I was, in my late 20's the first day of college, and also having to deal with new stuff like lockers, cafeterias , desks and racing form class to class.
Once I got back into a routine of studying, the rest of the back to school experience pretty much fell into place for me. It made me look forward to the holidays and breaks even more, and you always have to have goals and things to look forward to in life. You just keep going, keep grinding it out, day after day.
So, when I saw the yellow school buses go up my street early this morning, I smiled. Later this afternoon, I'll see the neighborhood kids returning home, back-packs on, the warm days still hanging around for another month or so, but the twilight falling earlier each afternoon, the small of Autumn in the air, the leaves changing colors and Halloween decorations up everywhere.
I'll smile because I know where it all leads, down the road of life.
And I'll remember mostly good times on this, the first day of school.
k
But usually I was ready...ready to see old friends and make new ones. Ready to use my brand new school supplies . Back when I was a kid we had metal lunch-boxes and thermal mugs; brown paper bags and wax paper for the food. That's if I was packing my lunch, which was often the case.
The first day was always hectic. meeting new teachers and getting used to the class schedule. And there was usually homework to be done, even on the first day.
In high school, especially as a senior, the first day back was more than welcomed as it meant getting closer to graduation. The fall semester of the senior year seems the longest, as in the spring you're planning on graduation and life beyond.
The worst part of the first day was knowing that you wouldn't be off again until Thanksgiving. It seemed so long. Then the Christmas holidays. Spring break wasn't too much longer after that. But from September until next June, it seemed like eternity.
Notice I wrote September. Back in the day we didn't start the next year of school until the day after Labor Day. Now, it generally begins for almost everyone in August. I guess they want to get in as much nice weather in case there are too many snow days in the winter.
Labor Day weekend was like walking the Green Mile. The first part was all-out fun, be it cook-outs, at the beach or just hanging, watching the Phillies, the Jerry Lewis telethon on TV, partying like it was 1999.
Labor Day itself was sort of anti-clamatic, and Labor Day night was awful, getting out your school clothes for the next day, making sure your supplies were ready, going to bed way too early ( we never went ot bed early a few weeks before Labor day to get used to the new routine- we went cold turkey).
It really didn't hit me about school starting again and the summer ending until the next morning when reality set in.
When I started college, my first day was different. It was the first time I had actually attended a so-called "regular" school for able-bodied students. In the past, it was either attending an accessible school for kids with disabilities; having teachers come to my house after school-hours; or using the intercom system hooked up from my bedroom to Phoenixville High's classes.
So, there I was, in my late 20's the first day of college, and also having to deal with new stuff like lockers, cafeterias , desks and racing form class to class.
Once I got back into a routine of studying, the rest of the back to school experience pretty much fell into place for me. It made me look forward to the holidays and breaks even more, and you always have to have goals and things to look forward to in life. You just keep going, keep grinding it out, day after day.
So, when I saw the yellow school buses go up my street early this morning, I smiled. Later this afternoon, I'll see the neighborhood kids returning home, back-packs on, the warm days still hanging around for another month or so, but the twilight falling earlier each afternoon, the small of Autumn in the air, the leaves changing colors and Halloween decorations up everywhere.
I'll smile because I know where it all leads, down the road of life.
And I'll remember mostly good times on this, the first day of school.
k
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ- GEOGRAPHY
Today's quiz is all about: GEOGRAPHY
1. In what country is the city of Glamorgan?
2. Mont Blanc is on what continent?
3. What is the capital of India?
4. What color is the bottom bar on Hungary's flag?
5. What color is the top bar on the flag of the Netherlands?
6. What color is the cross on Switzerland's flag?
7. What's the eagle on Mexico's flag perched on?
8. What U.S. state does Mexico's Nuevo Leon province border?
9. Which is farther west- Minneapolis or St. Paul?
10. What became the tallest structure in the world in 1889?
ANSWERS-
1. Wales
2. Europe
3. New Delhi
4. Green
5. Red
6. White
7. A cactus
8. Texas
9. Minneapolis
10. The Effel Tower
PHILLIES PHODDER
* Rhys Hoskins continues to amaze. Another home run yesterday- 11 in 18 games, a major league record. He broke the Phillies' all-time record for home runs in the month of August by a rookie. Incredible, since he was only called up on August 14. He is tied for the club record for RBIs in a month by a rookie ( with 3 games yet to play in August). His average is hovering around .300. He has more walks than strike-outs. And he has given the franchise and it's fans hope and something to cheer about.
Every great player needs a nickname. Here are a few I've heard so far in regards to Rhys (pronounced REESE):
- Rhys the Beast (good one)
-Rhys' Pieces ( more like a fan club)
- The Big Rhys ( too close to The Big Piece, Ryan Howard's nickname)
- Rhys Lightning ( more for a speedy base-stealer)
- Big Hoss ( his personal favorite and the name his teammates are starting to call him)
and, some sayings...
- Rhys is The Word ( a take-off of "Grease is The Word")
- "All we are saying, is give Rhys a chance.." ( credit to fellow Beatles-fan Steve Trevelise for this one).
I'm sure there will be more as time goes on. I know Hoskins will cool off and the league will figure him out. Hoskins will readjust. It's only the beginning. Think of another 10-15 years ahead of Hoskinsmania.
* The Phils play Atlanta tonight, the start of a 3-game series, after beating the world champion Cubs 2 out of 3 games over the weekend. The Cubbie fans were out in force- I almost thought I was at Wrigley Field on Saturday night, but for a team struggling to win it's division and hold off Milwaukee and St. Louis, losing a series- even on the road- to the worse team in baseball is not a good thing.
If Chicago wins the NL Central, they will most assuredly play Washington in the first round of the playoff ( the Dodgers would play the wild card survivor). The Nationals won't be an easy out. They have good starting pitching and a potent offense, led by Bryce Harper, Daniel Murphy and Ryan Zimmerman. Washington is a hungry, desperate team, knowing they may only have 1-2 more chances to get to the World Series before Harper bolts for free agency. Plus the Cubs can't be as hungry as they were last season. Everything went right for the Cubs. it was their year.
Enjoy it while you can, Cubs fans!
At the end of the week the Phillies can bring up more young talent from their farm system. Is there another Rhys Hoskins in Lehigh Valley or Reading, waiting for his turn to shine?
I like Scott Kingery. So do the Pihllies. Hoskins calls it "the most complete ballplayer I've ever played with." But he won't be a September call-up because of his service time.
Dylan Couzens, the second half of the Bash Brothers combo ( along with Hoskins) should get a look, despite his low average and tendency to strike-out. Couzins hits home runs ever father than Hoskins. It would be fun to see what he can do in Citizens Bank Park.
Other than Drew Anderson- who is with the big club now- the organization's top young hurlers are all in low-level ball right now. So, pitching-wise, what you see is what you get.
Still, as football season begins, watching Hoskins and his fellow Iron Pig teammates make it to Philadelphia will be something to keep an eye on for the future.
* Hoskins started a triple play in Sunday's game, the first triple play started by a Phillie outfield since 1964. More magic during a Roy Hobbs-like magical beginning got Rhys Hoskins.
Every great player needs a nickname. Here are a few I've heard so far in regards to Rhys (pronounced REESE):
- Rhys the Beast (good one)
-Rhys' Pieces ( more like a fan club)
- The Big Rhys ( too close to The Big Piece, Ryan Howard's nickname)
- Rhys Lightning ( more for a speedy base-stealer)
- Big Hoss ( his personal favorite and the name his teammates are starting to call him)
and, some sayings...
- Rhys is The Word ( a take-off of "Grease is The Word")
- "All we are saying, is give Rhys a chance.." ( credit to fellow Beatles-fan Steve Trevelise for this one).
I'm sure there will be more as time goes on. I know Hoskins will cool off and the league will figure him out. Hoskins will readjust. It's only the beginning. Think of another 10-15 years ahead of Hoskinsmania.
* The Phils play Atlanta tonight, the start of a 3-game series, after beating the world champion Cubs 2 out of 3 games over the weekend. The Cubbie fans were out in force- I almost thought I was at Wrigley Field on Saturday night, but for a team struggling to win it's division and hold off Milwaukee and St. Louis, losing a series- even on the road- to the worse team in baseball is not a good thing.
If Chicago wins the NL Central, they will most assuredly play Washington in the first round of the playoff ( the Dodgers would play the wild card survivor). The Nationals won't be an easy out. They have good starting pitching and a potent offense, led by Bryce Harper, Daniel Murphy and Ryan Zimmerman. Washington is a hungry, desperate team, knowing they may only have 1-2 more chances to get to the World Series before Harper bolts for free agency. Plus the Cubs can't be as hungry as they were last season. Everything went right for the Cubs. it was their year.
Enjoy it while you can, Cubs fans!
At the end of the week the Phillies can bring up more young talent from their farm system. Is there another Rhys Hoskins in Lehigh Valley or Reading, waiting for his turn to shine?
I like Scott Kingery. So do the Pihllies. Hoskins calls it "the most complete ballplayer I've ever played with." But he won't be a September call-up because of his service time.
Dylan Couzens, the second half of the Bash Brothers combo ( along with Hoskins) should get a look, despite his low average and tendency to strike-out. Couzins hits home runs ever father than Hoskins. It would be fun to see what he can do in Citizens Bank Park.
Other than Drew Anderson- who is with the big club now- the organization's top young hurlers are all in low-level ball right now. So, pitching-wise, what you see is what you get.
Still, as football season begins, watching Hoskins and his fellow Iron Pig teammates make it to Philadelphia will be something to keep an eye on for the future.
* Hoskins started a triple play in Sunday's game, the first triple play started by a Phillie outfield since 1964. More magic during a Roy Hobbs-like magical beginning got Rhys Hoskins.
IN THE NEWS- DOWN SYNDROME REALITY SHOW WINS NEW SEASON
This is from Disability Scoop..
After receiving a half-dozen Emmy nominations, new episodes of a reality show following a group of young people with Down syndrome are on the way.
A&E Network said it has renewed "Born This Way" for a fourth season.
The show, which centers on seven young adults with Down syndrome and their families, will return with eight new episodes, the network said.
"Over the past three seasons, 'Born This Way' has been a prime example of quality storytelling that motivates us to celebrate and embrace diversity," said Elaine Frontain Bryant, head of programming for A&E Network. "We are honored to reunite with these incredible young adults and their families as they fearlessly share their accomplishments, struggles and dreams, shifting society's perception about differences along the way."
The renewal comes a month after "Born This Way" was nominated for Emmy Awards for its casting, cinematography and picture editing. In addition, the show was nominated for outstanding unstructured reality program, a category it won last year.
Since premiering in 2015, "Born This Way" has offered an intimate look at the lives sf young adults with Down syndrome as they pursue employment, explore friendships and romantic relationships and seek independence. More recently, the hour-long show introduced a family with a young child with the chromosomal disorder.
After receiving a half-dozen Emmy nominations, new episodes of a reality show following a group of young people with Down syndrome are on the way.
A&E Network said it has renewed "Born This Way" for a fourth season.
The show, which centers on seven young adults with Down syndrome and their families, will return with eight new episodes, the network said.
"Over the past three seasons, 'Born This Way' has been a prime example of quality storytelling that motivates us to celebrate and embrace diversity," said Elaine Frontain Bryant, head of programming for A&E Network. "We are honored to reunite with these incredible young adults and their families as they fearlessly share their accomplishments, struggles and dreams, shifting society's perception about differences along the way."
The renewal comes a month after "Born This Way" was nominated for Emmy Awards for its casting, cinematography and picture editing. In addition, the show was nominated for outstanding unstructured reality program, a category it won last year.
Since premiering in 2015, "Born This Way" has offered an intimate look at the lives sf young adults with Down syndrome as they pursue employment, explore friendships and romantic relationships and seek independence. More recently, the hour-long show introduced a family with a young child with the chromosomal disorder.
Sunday, August 27, 2017
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ-POP CULTURE
POP CULTURE is the topic of today's quiz...
1. What hit song by the Three Degrees was No. 1 on the charts the day Richard Nixon resigned?
2. Who lies beneath the Arc de Triomphe?
3. How many real fruit juices are there in a can of Hawaiian Punch?
4. How many different versions of the Mona Lisa have x rays shown to be under the visible one?
5, Was Louis Braille blind?
6. In Monopoly, what's the rent for Park Place with two houses?
7. Which is the male part of a flower- the stamen or the pistil?
8. Does the Statue of Liberty have an elevator?
9. Who was world heavyweight boxing champion for 11 years, eight months and 12 days?
10. What kind of citrus juice combines with Yukon Jack to make a Mackenzie Gold?
ANSWERS-
1. When Will I See You Again?
2. An Unknown Soldier
3. Seven
4. Three
5. Yes
6. $500
7. The stamen
8. Yes
9. Joe Louis
10. Grapefruit juice
1. What hit song by the Three Degrees was No. 1 on the charts the day Richard Nixon resigned?
2. Who lies beneath the Arc de Triomphe?
3. How many real fruit juices are there in a can of Hawaiian Punch?
4. How many different versions of the Mona Lisa have x rays shown to be under the visible one?
5, Was Louis Braille blind?
6. In Monopoly, what's the rent for Park Place with two houses?
7. Which is the male part of a flower- the stamen or the pistil?
8. Does the Statue of Liberty have an elevator?
9. Who was world heavyweight boxing champion for 11 years, eight months and 12 days?
10. What kind of citrus juice combines with Yukon Jack to make a Mackenzie Gold?
ANSWERS-
1. When Will I See You Again?
2. An Unknown Soldier
3. Seven
4. Three
5. Yes
6. $500
7. The stamen
8. Yes
9. Joe Louis
10. Grapefruit juice
PHILLIES PHODDER
It was an ugly Saturday night at Citizens Bank Park. The weather was perfect, in fact, even a little chilly. The game was another matter, as the Phillies were crushed by the world champion Chicago Cubs, 17-2. It was the most runs scored by a visiting team this summer at CBP, and the most visiting runs scored since Cincinnati put up 22 runs in 1998.
Phys Hoskins homered again, his 10th. He may be the only reason to watch anymore, a must-see every at-bat.
When he came to bat in the 9th inning, the Phils down by 15 runs,much of the sparse crowd stayed ( aside form the hundreds of Cub fans) just to see if Hoskins would homer again.
He is the face of the franchise now, much-needed both on the field and off.
It was my girlfriend, Holly's, first Phillies game. Here are the high ( or low) lights of the evening:
* Holly was given a certificate that read "My first Phillies Game ( and it sucked!)
* It was Bark in the Park night- only the dogs were on the field wearing red.
* Holly is a big baseball fan. After the game started she asked if we were on the "Wentz wagon?" No, but the Cubs did score two touchdowns and a field goal.
* I showed her the Phillies Wall of Fame display before the game. No matter how hard we looked, we couldn't find the Pete Rose plaque ( did they take it down?).
* The first time Holly ever had crab fries! $12 a cup- welcome to a Phillies game!
* We went into the Phillies's tore. They have everything you can slap a P on in there. There best seller this summer is Phillies toilet paper. Talk about not getting any runs!
* Cub fans used to be lovable losers. Now they're just obnoxious jerks. After the game a group was holding up a white banner with a blue W on it. I'm thinking the W meant "Wusses?"
All in all, despite the score and the fact it felt like we were at Wrigley Field, it was a fun night. My last game of the season (thank God!). Next is the Eagles vs. Cardinals game in early October. Hopefully there will be much more to cheer about.
After losing 7-1 to the Phils on Friday night, the Cubbies showed why they are champs, showing no mercy. No matter how brilliant Hoskins continues to be, he can't be the savior alone. The Phils need pitching help this off-season. Hopefully GM Klentak and team president MacPhail were watching up in their boxes, hearing the boos of the Phillies fans and the jeers of the Chicago fans, and were both embarrassed and understanding of the fact that we need help.
Phys Hoskins homered again, his 10th. He may be the only reason to watch anymore, a must-see every at-bat.
When he came to bat in the 9th inning, the Phils down by 15 runs,much of the sparse crowd stayed ( aside form the hundreds of Cub fans) just to see if Hoskins would homer again.
He is the face of the franchise now, much-needed both on the field and off.
It was my girlfriend, Holly's, first Phillies game. Here are the high ( or low) lights of the evening:
* Holly was given a certificate that read "My first Phillies Game ( and it sucked!)
* It was Bark in the Park night- only the dogs were on the field wearing red.
* Holly is a big baseball fan. After the game started she asked if we were on the "Wentz wagon?" No, but the Cubs did score two touchdowns and a field goal.
* I showed her the Phillies Wall of Fame display before the game. No matter how hard we looked, we couldn't find the Pete Rose plaque ( did they take it down?).
* The first time Holly ever had crab fries! $12 a cup- welcome to a Phillies game!
* We went into the Phillies's tore. They have everything you can slap a P on in there. There best seller this summer is Phillies toilet paper. Talk about not getting any runs!
* Cub fans used to be lovable losers. Now they're just obnoxious jerks. After the game a group was holding up a white banner with a blue W on it. I'm thinking the W meant "Wusses?"
All in all, despite the score and the fact it felt like we were at Wrigley Field, it was a fun night. My last game of the season (thank God!). Next is the Eagles vs. Cardinals game in early October. Hopefully there will be much more to cheer about.
After losing 7-1 to the Phils on Friday night, the Cubbies showed why they are champs, showing no mercy. No matter how brilliant Hoskins continues to be, he can't be the savior alone. The Phils need pitching help this off-season. Hopefully GM Klentak and team president MacPhail were watching up in their boxes, hearing the boos of the Phillies fans and the jeers of the Chicago fans, and were both embarrassed and understanding of the fact that we need help.
Saturday, August 26, 2017
IN THE NEWS- MISS AMAZING CASTS SPOTLIGHT ON GIRLS WITH DISABILITIES
The following article is from the Hartford Courant...
Before she was crowned Miss Amazing National, Vanessa Cleary never thought of herself as a beauty pageant competitor.
Yet the way in which Vanessa told the story of her birth mother's struggles in Guatemala to help her with her disabilities and the positive impabt her adoption had on her life helped Vanessa win over the judges earlier this month at the Miss Amazing National pageant in Chicago where she took top honors in the junior teen division.
Next summer, Vanessa, 15, will return to the pageant to present the tiara to the new winner. In the meantime, she said she's looking forward to telling her friends at school about the pageant so they can participate as well.
"I want everyone to have the experience I had," Vanessa said. "It was really fun. I really enjoyed it."
Miss Amazing is a pageant for girls and young women with disabilities. According to the website missamazing2017.org, in the 10 years sinc eit began, 1,700 girls and young women with disabilities have benefited from pageants that are now held nationwide.
"It's not prim and prissy and the girls aren't queens. They're representative," said Morgan Packer-McCarthy, director of Miss Amazing Connecticut. "It's a whole new culture and a whole new aspect of diversity."
Miss Amazing was started in Omaha, Neb., in 2007 by a teenage girl, Jordan Somer, who was a volunteer for Special Olympics at the time. Since then, Miss Amazing has expanded to over 30 states across the U.S. including Connecticut where Packer-McCarthy started the chapter three years ago.
The pageant is designed to help the girls who participate build sisterhoods, develop life skills and increase visibility for those in the disability community.
Packer-McCarthy has younger twin sisters who both have hereditary sensory neuropathy type 2, meaning they can't feel their extremities. One of the twins, Allana Packer-McCarthy, wanted to participate in a pageant, but her ankles were enlarged as a result of her condition and she couldn't fit into typical pageant heels.
Packer-McCarthy, 19 at the time, took her sister to the Miss Amazing pageant in Massachusetts. After the positive experience both sisters had, Packer-McCarthy decided she had to bring the pageant to Connecticut.
"There was no excuse for me not to start the pageant in Connecticut," Packer-McCarthy said. Miss Amazing is run entirely by volunteers. Particpants register by donating five canned goods that will be given to the needy. Fundraisers are held to raise money for travel and dresses, and on the day of the pageant, girls can buy donated dresses for between $10 and $30.
Participants in Miss Amazing are paired up withh a buddy for the entirety of the experience, someone who does not have a disability. This can either be someone they know and choose or someone who volunteered and they are meeting for the first time. They then do crafts, go through orientation, and participate in an interview- an opportunity to talk about their passions and practice a life skill they otherwise likely wouldn't get a chance to try.
The main event is the stage performance, in which participants get to showcase a talent of their choice. When Maureen Cleary, Vanessa's mother, first heard about Miss Amazing on a Facebook page, she thoguht the pageant would be a great opportunity for Vanessa to showcase her talent- public speaking. Vanessa wants to be a teacher at Enfield High School where she is about to enter her sophomore year. She said she wants to teach other students who have disabilities like her.
Vanessa has hearing and vision impairment, and has had multiple surgeries for both. She also has attention deficit disorder and an intellectual disability that makes reading comprehension difficult for her Despite this, she is very active, participating in Unified Sports for students with and without disabilities, and dancing. Last year, Vanessa was taking a teen leadership course, in which she found her passion for public speaking.
In the class and during Miss Amazing, Vanessa spoke about her adoption. She recalled how her birth mother did not know the extent of her disabilities and was not equipped to handle them. She said she plans to return to Guatemala when she turns 18 to meet her biological mother and siblings.
Packer-McCarthy said the pageant creates an extremely supportive social environment that young women with disabilities are unlikely to get anywhere else. She said this is especially important for girls with disabilities, who are more likely to be low-income and unemployed. In 2014, women with disabilities made up 1.5 percent of the U.S. workforce, despite making up 4 percent of the general population, according to the Women's Bureau of the U.S. department of Labor.
Packer-McCarthy said because of the supportive and less-competitive nature of Miss Amazing, she has seen girls like Vanessa open up. A speech pathologist for one of the participants said she saw more growth in two weeks than she had seen in the previous years of working with the girl.
Cleary said for Vanessa, her growth came most in her interactions with her peers. Vanessa tended to talk more to adults in social settings, rather than girls her own age. During the pageant, Vanessa made several friends in her age group from all over the country and continues to keep in touch with them by phone.
For both Cleary and Vanessa, it wasn't about winning the pageant. They said it was about the opportunity for Vanessa to participate and feel supported.
Before she was crowned Miss Amazing National, Vanessa Cleary never thought of herself as a beauty pageant competitor.
Yet the way in which Vanessa told the story of her birth mother's struggles in Guatemala to help her with her disabilities and the positive impabt her adoption had on her life helped Vanessa win over the judges earlier this month at the Miss Amazing National pageant in Chicago where she took top honors in the junior teen division.
Next summer, Vanessa, 15, will return to the pageant to present the tiara to the new winner. In the meantime, she said she's looking forward to telling her friends at school about the pageant so they can participate as well.
"I want everyone to have the experience I had," Vanessa said. "It was really fun. I really enjoyed it."
Miss Amazing is a pageant for girls and young women with disabilities. According to the website missamazing2017.org, in the 10 years sinc eit began, 1,700 girls and young women with disabilities have benefited from pageants that are now held nationwide.
"It's not prim and prissy and the girls aren't queens. They're representative," said Morgan Packer-McCarthy, director of Miss Amazing Connecticut. "It's a whole new culture and a whole new aspect of diversity."
Miss Amazing was started in Omaha, Neb., in 2007 by a teenage girl, Jordan Somer, who was a volunteer for Special Olympics at the time. Since then, Miss Amazing has expanded to over 30 states across the U.S. including Connecticut where Packer-McCarthy started the chapter three years ago.
The pageant is designed to help the girls who participate build sisterhoods, develop life skills and increase visibility for those in the disability community.
Packer-McCarthy has younger twin sisters who both have hereditary sensory neuropathy type 2, meaning they can't feel their extremities. One of the twins, Allana Packer-McCarthy, wanted to participate in a pageant, but her ankles were enlarged as a result of her condition and she couldn't fit into typical pageant heels.
Packer-McCarthy, 19 at the time, took her sister to the Miss Amazing pageant in Massachusetts. After the positive experience both sisters had, Packer-McCarthy decided she had to bring the pageant to Connecticut.
"There was no excuse for me not to start the pageant in Connecticut," Packer-McCarthy said. Miss Amazing is run entirely by volunteers. Particpants register by donating five canned goods that will be given to the needy. Fundraisers are held to raise money for travel and dresses, and on the day of the pageant, girls can buy donated dresses for between $10 and $30.
Participants in Miss Amazing are paired up withh a buddy for the entirety of the experience, someone who does not have a disability. This can either be someone they know and choose or someone who volunteered and they are meeting for the first time. They then do crafts, go through orientation, and participate in an interview- an opportunity to talk about their passions and practice a life skill they otherwise likely wouldn't get a chance to try.
The main event is the stage performance, in which participants get to showcase a talent of their choice. When Maureen Cleary, Vanessa's mother, first heard about Miss Amazing on a Facebook page, she thoguht the pageant would be a great opportunity for Vanessa to showcase her talent- public speaking. Vanessa wants to be a teacher at Enfield High School where she is about to enter her sophomore year. She said she wants to teach other students who have disabilities like her.
Vanessa has hearing and vision impairment, and has had multiple surgeries for both. She also has attention deficit disorder and an intellectual disability that makes reading comprehension difficult for her Despite this, she is very active, participating in Unified Sports for students with and without disabilities, and dancing. Last year, Vanessa was taking a teen leadership course, in which she found her passion for public speaking.
In the class and during Miss Amazing, Vanessa spoke about her adoption. She recalled how her birth mother did not know the extent of her disabilities and was not equipped to handle them. She said she plans to return to Guatemala when she turns 18 to meet her biological mother and siblings.
Packer-McCarthy said the pageant creates an extremely supportive social environment that young women with disabilities are unlikely to get anywhere else. She said this is especially important for girls with disabilities, who are more likely to be low-income and unemployed. In 2014, women with disabilities made up 1.5 percent of the U.S. workforce, despite making up 4 percent of the general population, according to the Women's Bureau of the U.S. department of Labor.
Packer-McCarthy said because of the supportive and less-competitive nature of Miss Amazing, she has seen girls like Vanessa open up. A speech pathologist for one of the participants said she saw more growth in two weeks than she had seen in the previous years of working with the girl.
Cleary said for Vanessa, her growth came most in her interactions with her peers. Vanessa tended to talk more to adults in social settings, rather than girls her own age. During the pageant, Vanessa made several friends in her age group from all over the country and continues to keep in touch with them by phone.
For both Cleary and Vanessa, it wasn't about winning the pageant. They said it was about the opportunity for Vanessa to participate and feel supported.
IN THE NEWS- MORE BUSINESSES EMBRACING INCLUSION
More From the website Disability Scoop...
Corporate America is increasingly working to include people with disabilities with a new report finding that a growing number of companies are actively recruiting from this population.
Ina survey of 110 companies that collectively account for 5 percent of the nation's workforce, 95 percent reported that they have recruitment efforts in place specifically aimed at hiring people with disabilities.
That's an increase of 11 percentage points since 2014.
The finding is part of the 2017 Disability Equality Index, an annual report from the American Association of People with Disabilities and the U.S. Business Leadership Network released this week.
Corporations choose to self-report their disability policies and practices for the index, which scores each business on their efforts at disability inclusion.
Since a pilot survey was first conducted in 2013-2014, the number of companies participating has more than double. This year's index businesses from 21 industries including companies like Starbucks, Walgreens, AT&T, Microsoft, Boeing, Aetna and Bank of America.
Of the 110 companies that were scored, 68 received the highest rating of 100.
Overall, the report found that 88 percent of the employers had a disability-focused resource group or organization and 86 percent had a senior executive working to champion or sponsor the effort.
Still the report noted that only about half of companies recognize disability in their supplier diversity programs. And, many businesses have room for improvement in ensuring that potential employees are offered interview accommodations and that both internal and external websites are accessible, the index found.
"On the heels of the 27th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we should celebrate our achievements but also reflect on the fact that employment outcomes for Americans with disabilities have remained unchanged," said Helena Berger, president and CEO of AAPD. "Working together, we can help ensure no one is left behind or unable to pursue their dream because of a disability."
Corporate America is increasingly working to include people with disabilities with a new report finding that a growing number of companies are actively recruiting from this population.
Ina survey of 110 companies that collectively account for 5 percent of the nation's workforce, 95 percent reported that they have recruitment efforts in place specifically aimed at hiring people with disabilities.
That's an increase of 11 percentage points since 2014.
The finding is part of the 2017 Disability Equality Index, an annual report from the American Association of People with Disabilities and the U.S. Business Leadership Network released this week.
Corporations choose to self-report their disability policies and practices for the index, which scores each business on their efforts at disability inclusion.
Since a pilot survey was first conducted in 2013-2014, the number of companies participating has more than double. This year's index businesses from 21 industries including companies like Starbucks, Walgreens, AT&T, Microsoft, Boeing, Aetna and Bank of America.
Of the 110 companies that were scored, 68 received the highest rating of 100.
Overall, the report found that 88 percent of the employers had a disability-focused resource group or organization and 86 percent had a senior executive working to champion or sponsor the effort.
Still the report noted that only about half of companies recognize disability in their supplier diversity programs. And, many businesses have room for improvement in ensuring that potential employees are offered interview accommodations and that both internal and external websites are accessible, the index found.
"On the heels of the 27th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we should celebrate our achievements but also reflect on the fact that employment outcomes for Americans with disabilities have remained unchanged," said Helena Berger, president and CEO of AAPD. "Working together, we can help ensure no one is left behind or unable to pursue their dream because of a disability."
PHILLIES PHODDER
The Phils won last night, 7-1 over the world champion Chicago Cubs. Rookie Rhys Hoskins homered again, his 9th home run in only 16 games, the fastest that any player in MLB history has hit nine homers at the beginning of their career.
Think about it: Faster than Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays or Hank Aaron. Faster than Mike Trout. Faster than anybody!
Pitchers will adjust as the league gets a book on Hoskins. Hopefully Hoskins adjusts with them. He looks like too good of a hitter not to.
The impact of a Rhys Hoskins is immeasurable for a struggling Phillies franchise. They badly needed a face to the franchise, not only someone to build around, a young, future star who has power, but someone thye can market, important on and off the field.
Hoskins give the long-suffering fans something to watch. He gives them hope for the future,a reason to attend games for the rest of the season and watch the ballgames in September.
On the field, Hoskins brings energy and youth. He makes the line-up better, allowing the hitters around him to see more fastballs. Hoskins walks as well as hits home runs. He is hitting for average too. Hopefully other younger players, like Mychal Franco, take note and learn.
He has also made other players step up their game by pushing them, namely Tommy Joseph. An outfield rotation of Hoskins, Herrera, Altherr and Williams is solid, but Phillies management has already said the Hoskins is their first baseman of the future, not their left fielder.
Off the field, having the presence of Hoskins in the line-up will encourage free agents ( Manny Machado) to consider coming to the Phillies .Stopping into the Phillies Clubhouse store recently, a white and red- pinstriped Phillies home jersey is displayed prominently in the front of the store. Imagine how many jerseys will be sold. Hoskins will entice fans to buy season tickets for 2018. The 2018 Phillies calendar won't need to use photos of the Phanatic or sunset over Citizens Bank park anymore. Hoskins will be all over the yearbook and programs next season.
So, there is hope, thanks in large part to Hoskins. He is the savior so far, someone to lead the team out of the darkness of a bleak, losing season and into the sunlight of contention down the road.
* Now that Hoskins has opened eyes, especially in the front office, hopefully more young players will get a chance in September and beyond. Outfielder Dylan Cousins should get a shot soon. True, he stills trikes-out a ton and his average is hovering around .220. But he has hit 26 homers in Lehigh Valley. He is young with potential. Why not give him a shot, especially since the games really don't matter anymore. Reunite the "Bash Brothers" and see what happens!
Scott Kingery played third base last night for the Iron Pigs. He extended his hitting streak to 23 games with a double in the ninth inning. 23 games breaks the old Lehigh Valley franchise record by no other than Dominick Brown.
Kingery should be promoted but won't. The Phils will consider his service time and the soonest we will see Kingery is next spring training. Hopefully he forces the organization's hand If Franco doesn't shape up, is it possible that the Phillies keep Cesar Hernandez and Kingery takes over third?
With much-needed pitching help, the Phillies could field a young, exciting squad next spring. They may not contend again, but certainly improvement should be expected, and the fans should have more fun watching the Phils in 2018.
* I'm attending the Phillies-Cubs game tonight. I'll post my review of the game tomorrow on what should be a beautiful nigh tin South Philly.
Think about it: Faster than Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays or Hank Aaron. Faster than Mike Trout. Faster than anybody!
Pitchers will adjust as the league gets a book on Hoskins. Hopefully Hoskins adjusts with them. He looks like too good of a hitter not to.
The impact of a Rhys Hoskins is immeasurable for a struggling Phillies franchise. They badly needed a face to the franchise, not only someone to build around, a young, future star who has power, but someone thye can market, important on and off the field.
Hoskins give the long-suffering fans something to watch. He gives them hope for the future,a reason to attend games for the rest of the season and watch the ballgames in September.
On the field, Hoskins brings energy and youth. He makes the line-up better, allowing the hitters around him to see more fastballs. Hoskins walks as well as hits home runs. He is hitting for average too. Hopefully other younger players, like Mychal Franco, take note and learn.
He has also made other players step up their game by pushing them, namely Tommy Joseph. An outfield rotation of Hoskins, Herrera, Altherr and Williams is solid, but Phillies management has already said the Hoskins is their first baseman of the future, not their left fielder.
Off the field, having the presence of Hoskins in the line-up will encourage free agents ( Manny Machado) to consider coming to the Phillies .Stopping into the Phillies Clubhouse store recently, a white and red- pinstriped Phillies home jersey is displayed prominently in the front of the store. Imagine how many jerseys will be sold. Hoskins will entice fans to buy season tickets for 2018. The 2018 Phillies calendar won't need to use photos of the Phanatic or sunset over Citizens Bank park anymore. Hoskins will be all over the yearbook and programs next season.
So, there is hope, thanks in large part to Hoskins. He is the savior so far, someone to lead the team out of the darkness of a bleak, losing season and into the sunlight of contention down the road.
* Now that Hoskins has opened eyes, especially in the front office, hopefully more young players will get a chance in September and beyond. Outfielder Dylan Cousins should get a shot soon. True, he stills trikes-out a ton and his average is hovering around .220. But he has hit 26 homers in Lehigh Valley. He is young with potential. Why not give him a shot, especially since the games really don't matter anymore. Reunite the "Bash Brothers" and see what happens!
Scott Kingery played third base last night for the Iron Pigs. He extended his hitting streak to 23 games with a double in the ninth inning. 23 games breaks the old Lehigh Valley franchise record by no other than Dominick Brown.
Kingery should be promoted but won't. The Phils will consider his service time and the soonest we will see Kingery is next spring training. Hopefully he forces the organization's hand If Franco doesn't shape up, is it possible that the Phillies keep Cesar Hernandez and Kingery takes over third?
With much-needed pitching help, the Phillies could field a young, exciting squad next spring. They may not contend again, but certainly improvement should be expected, and the fans should have more fun watching the Phils in 2018.
* I'm attending the Phillies-Cubs game tonight. I'll post my review of the game tomorrow on what should be a beautiful nigh tin South Philly.
Friday, August 25, 2017
IN THE NEWS-COURT WEIGHS JUSTICE DEPARTMENT ROLE IN ADA ENFORCEMENT
This article is from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution...
A federal lawsuit alleging that Georgia discriminates against students with disabilities is on hold indefinitely.
U.S. District Judge Eleanor L. Ross issued a stay earlier this month in the case, which seeks to abolish the Georgia Network for Educational and Therapeutic Services. The network, known as GNETS, serves thousands of children with emotional and behavioral disorders in psychoeducational facilities across the state. But the lawsuit, filed last year by the U.S. Department of Justice, says the state illegally segregates GNETS students from children who have no disabilities.
Ross delayed all action until the federal appeals court in Atlanta decides a case from Florida, in which a judge ruled the Justice Department had no authority to file lawsuits under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The GNETS suit also alleges ADA violations- a claim vehemently denied by state officials.
In Florida, the department charged that state officials has illegally institutionalized 200 children with disabilities in nursing homes. But Judge William J. Zloch of the U.S. District Court for South Florida ruled that only individuals, not the federal government, can sue under the ADA.
"This holding runs contrary to the numerous other cases across the country finding that the department does have standing," Ross wrote in an Aug. 11 order. She noted that a federal judge in Texas recently disregarded the Florida case while ruling in favor of the Justice department.
But the 11th Circuit's decision, Ross said, is likely to have a "substantial or controlling effect" on the GNETS suit.
The Justice Department just filed the appeal on Aug. 8, and no proceedings have yet been scheduled. No matter how the court rules, the case could be appealed to the U. S. Supreme Court, creating further delays.
In the meantime, students continue to attend GNETS facilities- many of which, the Justice department says, are old, dilapidated and lacking such as basics as libraries, science labs, gyms and cafeterias.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported last year that Georgia schools send a disproportionate number of black students to GNETS- particularly black boys.
GNETS came under scrutiny in 2009 after the AJC reported on Jonathan King, a 13-year-old . Teachers and administrators at the Alpine GNETS program, then in Gainesville, placed Jonathan in seclusion 19 times over 29 days in the fall of 2004. On average, he spent 94 minutes in what teachers called a "time-out room." In reality, it was a windowless cell behind a locked metal door.
Jonathan's final trip to seclusion occurred Nov. 15, 2004. Twice, Jonathan had threatened suicide. yet, teachers let him keep the rope he was wearing as a belt. He used that rope to hang himself.
A federal lawsuit alleging that Georgia discriminates against students with disabilities is on hold indefinitely.
U.S. District Judge Eleanor L. Ross issued a stay earlier this month in the case, which seeks to abolish the Georgia Network for Educational and Therapeutic Services. The network, known as GNETS, serves thousands of children with emotional and behavioral disorders in psychoeducational facilities across the state. But the lawsuit, filed last year by the U.S. Department of Justice, says the state illegally segregates GNETS students from children who have no disabilities.
Ross delayed all action until the federal appeals court in Atlanta decides a case from Florida, in which a judge ruled the Justice Department had no authority to file lawsuits under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The GNETS suit also alleges ADA violations- a claim vehemently denied by state officials.
In Florida, the department charged that state officials has illegally institutionalized 200 children with disabilities in nursing homes. But Judge William J. Zloch of the U.S. District Court for South Florida ruled that only individuals, not the federal government, can sue under the ADA.
"This holding runs contrary to the numerous other cases across the country finding that the department does have standing," Ross wrote in an Aug. 11 order. She noted that a federal judge in Texas recently disregarded the Florida case while ruling in favor of the Justice department.
But the 11th Circuit's decision, Ross said, is likely to have a "substantial or controlling effect" on the GNETS suit.
The Justice Department just filed the appeal on Aug. 8, and no proceedings have yet been scheduled. No matter how the court rules, the case could be appealed to the U. S. Supreme Court, creating further delays.
In the meantime, students continue to attend GNETS facilities- many of which, the Justice department says, are old, dilapidated and lacking such as basics as libraries, science labs, gyms and cafeterias.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported last year that Georgia schools send a disproportionate number of black students to GNETS- particularly black boys.
GNETS came under scrutiny in 2009 after the AJC reported on Jonathan King, a 13-year-old . Teachers and administrators at the Alpine GNETS program, then in Gainesville, placed Jonathan in seclusion 19 times over 29 days in the fall of 2004. On average, he spent 94 minutes in what teachers called a "time-out room." In reality, it was a windowless cell behind a locked metal door.
Jonathan's final trip to seclusion occurred Nov. 15, 2004. Twice, Jonathan had threatened suicide. yet, teachers let him keep the rope he was wearing as a belt. He used that rope to hang himself.
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ-GEOGRAPHY
Today's quiz is all about: GEOGRAPHY
1. What European city boasts the most fountains in the world?
2. What Nordic country has more saunas than automobiles?
3. What eastern state, with 48 miles of land border, is the most water-locked after Hawaii?
4. What state is home to Daniel Boone National Forest?
5. What eastern state sprouted the first commercial nuclear power plant in the U.S.?
6. What's the world's longest marked footpath, running 2,100 miles from Georgia to Maine?
7. Is Radio City Music Hall on the east or the west side of the Avenue of the Americas?
8. What three European countries does the prime meridian run through?
9. What South American country comes last in an alphabetical list?
10. Which is farther north- Great Salt Lake or Lake Tahoe?
ANSWERS-
1. Rome
2. Finland
3. New Jersey
4. Kentucky
5. Pennsylvania
6. The Appalachian Trail
7. The east side
8. Britain, France and Spain
9. Venezuela
10. Great Salt Lake
1. What European city boasts the most fountains in the world?
2. What Nordic country has more saunas than automobiles?
3. What eastern state, with 48 miles of land border, is the most water-locked after Hawaii?
4. What state is home to Daniel Boone National Forest?
5. What eastern state sprouted the first commercial nuclear power plant in the U.S.?
6. What's the world's longest marked footpath, running 2,100 miles from Georgia to Maine?
7. Is Radio City Music Hall on the east or the west side of the Avenue of the Americas?
8. What three European countries does the prime meridian run through?
9. What South American country comes last in an alphabetical list?
10. Which is farther north- Great Salt Lake or Lake Tahoe?
ANSWERS-
1. Rome
2. Finland
3. New Jersey
4. Kentucky
5. Pennsylvania
6. The Appalachian Trail
7. The east side
8. Britain, France and Spain
9. Venezuela
10. Great Salt Lake
CHIRPING BIRDS
Key notes from last night's Eagles' 38-31 pre-season win over Miami..
* Carson Wentz looked good again, hitting Jeffery and Smith for touchdowns. Good for Coach Pederson to pull Wentz out of the game early as the offensive line looked terrible. Don't want to see Wentz get hurt in a meaningless game, especially with the back-up quarterback situation looking shaky ( more on that later).
The weapons Wentz now has won't matter if the O-line doesn't protect better or the running game isn't effective. First time the O-line played together so far and it showed. Only two weeks until the opener in Washington. No rookies there- they need to gel and step it up quick.
*Lane Johnson talks smack to the Redskins and has another poor game. Johnson isn't the sharpest tool in the shed, that's for sure, and hopefully his stupid comments don't light a fire under the 'Skins. Johnson said he owes the fans for his suspension last season, yet so far he sucks.
Did he play well before because of the pills?
No need to over-react in the pre-season. But it's concerning that Johnson and the rest of the line have not played well so far.
* The running backs looked OK, nothing special. I stll think the Birds should explore the possibility of trading for Shady McCoy, since buffalo looks like they want to collect draft picks. I also hope the team doesn't regret not moving up in the second round to take RB Delvin Cook (who went to Minnesota).
* New corner back Darby got beat badly a few times last night.It happens. But it also shed light on why he was so inconsistent last year, and why the Bills decided to part with him. Darby doesn't look like an elite corner, but he's better than what the Eagles have ( which isn't saying much for the rest of their corners). Darby should be OK and hopefully team with Sidney Jones to give the Birds a pair of young defensive backs for years to come. Giving up WR Jordan Matthews ans the 3rd-round selection next spring in the draft was a high price to pay, but give the Eagles' credit for at least trying to improve.
LB Mychal Kendricks continues to play well. The Eagles don't have much depth at linebacker, so Kendricks playing well would really boost the defensive.
Or they could trade him, maybe for an experienced running back or even more secondary help. There's a case to be made for trading Kendricks while his value is high, because will he really get enough snaps this season>
The Eagles come out of the pre-season ( with one meaningless game to go, against the Jets) healthy, with no major, season-ending injuries. Whereas the Giants must be concerned for Odell Beckham Jr and even if he can play in the opener vs. Dallas; and the Cowboys are still reeling from the Elliot suspension, among other issues.
Getting off to a good start is key for the Birds, with road games at Washington and Kansas City right in their face. Coming home in week 3 to face the Giants is critical too. Coming out of that stretch 1-2 or even 0-3 wouldn't kill the Birds' season but it would be a tough hole to climb out of for sure. I actually think they will win 2 out of 3 here, knowing how important the home opener vs. New York is, and beating the Redskins. The Chiefs will be tough at KC, especially since the Chiefs will be coming off a season opener in New England, and will have 10 days to game plan for Philly.
* Going into the Jet game, one of the key points to look for is: Nick Foles. His right elbow is still sore. He hasn't played in the pre-season games so far, barely even getting on the practice field. And this is the guy who would fill in for Wentz, God forbid he gets injured.
I don't like McGloin or Evans as back-ups. Why sign Foles if he had arm issues? Did the Eagles' doctors check him out before signing him? Sure he knows the system , after playing for Philadelphia and Andy Reid in Kansas City, but to expect Foles to step in during the regular season when he hasn't played so far is ridiculous.
If Foles can't go, shouldn't the Birds be looking for a legitimate back-up QB?
* Carson Wentz looked good again, hitting Jeffery and Smith for touchdowns. Good for Coach Pederson to pull Wentz out of the game early as the offensive line looked terrible. Don't want to see Wentz get hurt in a meaningless game, especially with the back-up quarterback situation looking shaky ( more on that later).
The weapons Wentz now has won't matter if the O-line doesn't protect better or the running game isn't effective. First time the O-line played together so far and it showed. Only two weeks until the opener in Washington. No rookies there- they need to gel and step it up quick.
*Lane Johnson talks smack to the Redskins and has another poor game. Johnson isn't the sharpest tool in the shed, that's for sure, and hopefully his stupid comments don't light a fire under the 'Skins. Johnson said he owes the fans for his suspension last season, yet so far he sucks.
Did he play well before because of the pills?
No need to over-react in the pre-season. But it's concerning that Johnson and the rest of the line have not played well so far.
* The running backs looked OK, nothing special. I stll think the Birds should explore the possibility of trading for Shady McCoy, since buffalo looks like they want to collect draft picks. I also hope the team doesn't regret not moving up in the second round to take RB Delvin Cook (who went to Minnesota).
* New corner back Darby got beat badly a few times last night.It happens. But it also shed light on why he was so inconsistent last year, and why the Bills decided to part with him. Darby doesn't look like an elite corner, but he's better than what the Eagles have ( which isn't saying much for the rest of their corners). Darby should be OK and hopefully team with Sidney Jones to give the Birds a pair of young defensive backs for years to come. Giving up WR Jordan Matthews ans the 3rd-round selection next spring in the draft was a high price to pay, but give the Eagles' credit for at least trying to improve.
LB Mychal Kendricks continues to play well. The Eagles don't have much depth at linebacker, so Kendricks playing well would really boost the defensive.
Or they could trade him, maybe for an experienced running back or even more secondary help. There's a case to be made for trading Kendricks while his value is high, because will he really get enough snaps this season>
The Eagles come out of the pre-season ( with one meaningless game to go, against the Jets) healthy, with no major, season-ending injuries. Whereas the Giants must be concerned for Odell Beckham Jr and even if he can play in the opener vs. Dallas; and the Cowboys are still reeling from the Elliot suspension, among other issues.
Getting off to a good start is key for the Birds, with road games at Washington and Kansas City right in their face. Coming home in week 3 to face the Giants is critical too. Coming out of that stretch 1-2 or even 0-3 wouldn't kill the Birds' season but it would be a tough hole to climb out of for sure. I actually think they will win 2 out of 3 here, knowing how important the home opener vs. New York is, and beating the Redskins. The Chiefs will be tough at KC, especially since the Chiefs will be coming off a season opener in New England, and will have 10 days to game plan for Philly.
* Going into the Jet game, one of the key points to look for is: Nick Foles. His right elbow is still sore. He hasn't played in the pre-season games so far, barely even getting on the practice field. And this is the guy who would fill in for Wentz, God forbid he gets injured.
I don't like McGloin or Evans as back-ups. Why sign Foles if he had arm issues? Did the Eagles' doctors check him out before signing him? Sure he knows the system , after playing for Philadelphia and Andy Reid in Kansas City, but to expect Foles to step in during the regular season when he hasn't played so far is ridiculous.
If Foles can't go, shouldn't the Birds be looking for a legitimate back-up QB?
Thursday, August 24, 2017
PHILLIES PHODDER
* Give the Phillies credit last night. They clubbed Miami 8-0. Rhys Hoskins hit his 7th homer in only 14 games, the most home runs by a rookie in such few games in 100 years. It does no good to keep bitching about how the Phillies' front office screwed up again and didn't promote Hoskins sooner. It also does no good to point out that columnist Marcus Hayes was dead wrong by saying the Hoskins should "simmer" in Lehigh Valley all year.
Hoskins is up now, so just enjoy him and think of seasons to come. This team needs a face of the franchise and maybe they have found one.
I always get a Phillies calendar for next season, one which lists the games daily. Last year they struggled to find players for each month's photos, using the Phanatic and scenery pics instead.
The 2018 calendar should feature Hoskins, Williams, Nola, Alfaro, maybe even Kingery. I can see the Phillies promoting the hell out of their young prospects, as well as they should. When I stopped into the clubhouse store at Citizens Bank Park a few weeks ago, there was a sparkling white with red pin-stripes Rhys Hoskins jersey hanging up front.
Surprisingly, pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. pitched a one-hitter from seven innings. Leiter Jr. has not been mentioned with the young promising pitchers in the Phillies roster. But the Thompsons, Efflins and Livelys have pretty much failed this summer. Pivetta is a work in progress. Eichoff still has "potential" but is too inconsistent. Nova has pitched great but his record is still an average 9-9. So, this is the chance for Leiter Jr. to step up and claim a spot in the rotation for 2018.
The Phils line-up showed what it can do if clicking on all cylinders, as it was last night.Hernandez and Galvis getting on base at the top of the line-up; Williams getting two more hits out of the No. 3 spot; Hoskins drilling a titanic, upper deck home run to left field and knocking in 5 runs; Joseph and Alfaro chipping in with key hits.
Still, I see the team trading Joseph in the off-season. Herrera is due to return form the DL on Saturday. It will be interesting if he stays hot and if the front office trades him as well. Williams and Altherr ( who may be back in September) have shown that they can play center field effectively. And with Kingery and J.P. Crawford pushing from the minors, Will Galvis and Hernandez be around next season and beyond?
GM Kletak has some interesting decisions to make during the winter meetings. Hopefully he is active on the trade front, signs noteworthy pitchers in free agency, and has learned to listen to the fan base and trust his young kids. By not having faith in your own farm system it makes the scouts and the entire front office look bad in their talent evaluation.
Deciding what to do with the manager and coaching staff should be the first big decision, the day after the season ends.
I'm going to my final Phillies game this summer on Saturday night vs. the world champion Cubs. There is a lot more to watch now, compared to earlier in the spring, much more hope of things to come.And I;m sure, despite the tough, long summer and the questionable tactics of Klentak and Andy MacFailure, I'll be ordering my six-game pack in November, as usual, because I am a fan.
* The talk of sports this morning is the compelling game last nigh tin Pittsburgh between the Pirates and Dodgers. LA lefty Rich Hill had a perfect game thru 8 innings, saved by a spectacular, acrobatic, diving spear of a line drive by Chase Utley. Great play coming at a key time, Utley laying all out for the diving grab.
An error ruined the perfect game in the 9th, but hill took his no-hitter into the 10th of a 0-0 game, where the no-hitter, shut-out and game were lost on one pitch by a walk-off home run by Pirate Josh Harrison, the first no-hitter ended by a walk-off home run in the history of major league baseball.
It must be a magical time to be a Dodger fan with the season they are having. They are still 50-plus games over .500 and on a pace to have home field advantage thru out the playoffs and World Series. But lately the Dodgers have suffered key injuries and seem human.last night's stunning ending in Pittsburgh proved that things can change quickly in sports.
Interesting to note: Ben Davis, Phillies broadcaster, picks the Washington Nationals to represent the National league in the World Series this fall, not the Dodgers or even the champion Cubbies.
The Nats have the pitching and their offense can match-up with anyone. The bullpen is improved too. So, maybe? I still can't see the Dodgers losing. The Cubs won't get there again as they struggle to fend off the Cards and Brewers in NL Central. And I don;t see a wild card team- Colorado, Arizona or even Miami emerging. With Bryce Harper staring at free agency after next season, this year may be the best shot Washington has got to finally break the jinx and go to the Series.
Hoskins is up now, so just enjoy him and think of seasons to come. This team needs a face of the franchise and maybe they have found one.
I always get a Phillies calendar for next season, one which lists the games daily. Last year they struggled to find players for each month's photos, using the Phanatic and scenery pics instead.
The 2018 calendar should feature Hoskins, Williams, Nola, Alfaro, maybe even Kingery. I can see the Phillies promoting the hell out of their young prospects, as well as they should. When I stopped into the clubhouse store at Citizens Bank Park a few weeks ago, there was a sparkling white with red pin-stripes Rhys Hoskins jersey hanging up front.
Surprisingly, pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. pitched a one-hitter from seven innings. Leiter Jr. has not been mentioned with the young promising pitchers in the Phillies roster. But the Thompsons, Efflins and Livelys have pretty much failed this summer. Pivetta is a work in progress. Eichoff still has "potential" but is too inconsistent. Nova has pitched great but his record is still an average 9-9. So, this is the chance for Leiter Jr. to step up and claim a spot in the rotation for 2018.
The Phils line-up showed what it can do if clicking on all cylinders, as it was last night.Hernandez and Galvis getting on base at the top of the line-up; Williams getting two more hits out of the No. 3 spot; Hoskins drilling a titanic, upper deck home run to left field and knocking in 5 runs; Joseph and Alfaro chipping in with key hits.
Still, I see the team trading Joseph in the off-season. Herrera is due to return form the DL on Saturday. It will be interesting if he stays hot and if the front office trades him as well. Williams and Altherr ( who may be back in September) have shown that they can play center field effectively. And with Kingery and J.P. Crawford pushing from the minors, Will Galvis and Hernandez be around next season and beyond?
GM Kletak has some interesting decisions to make during the winter meetings. Hopefully he is active on the trade front, signs noteworthy pitchers in free agency, and has learned to listen to the fan base and trust his young kids. By not having faith in your own farm system it makes the scouts and the entire front office look bad in their talent evaluation.
Deciding what to do with the manager and coaching staff should be the first big decision, the day after the season ends.
I'm going to my final Phillies game this summer on Saturday night vs. the world champion Cubs. There is a lot more to watch now, compared to earlier in the spring, much more hope of things to come.And I;m sure, despite the tough, long summer and the questionable tactics of Klentak and Andy MacFailure, I'll be ordering my six-game pack in November, as usual, because I am a fan.
* The talk of sports this morning is the compelling game last nigh tin Pittsburgh between the Pirates and Dodgers. LA lefty Rich Hill had a perfect game thru 8 innings, saved by a spectacular, acrobatic, diving spear of a line drive by Chase Utley. Great play coming at a key time, Utley laying all out for the diving grab.
An error ruined the perfect game in the 9th, but hill took his no-hitter into the 10th of a 0-0 game, where the no-hitter, shut-out and game were lost on one pitch by a walk-off home run by Pirate Josh Harrison, the first no-hitter ended by a walk-off home run in the history of major league baseball.
It must be a magical time to be a Dodger fan with the season they are having. They are still 50-plus games over .500 and on a pace to have home field advantage thru out the playoffs and World Series. But lately the Dodgers have suffered key injuries and seem human.last night's stunning ending in Pittsburgh proved that things can change quickly in sports.
Interesting to note: Ben Davis, Phillies broadcaster, picks the Washington Nationals to represent the National league in the World Series this fall, not the Dodgers or even the champion Cubbies.
The Nats have the pitching and their offense can match-up with anyone. The bullpen is improved too. So, maybe? I still can't see the Dodgers losing. The Cubs won't get there again as they struggle to fend off the Cards and Brewers in NL Central. And I don;t see a wild card team- Colorado, Arizona or even Miami emerging. With Bryce Harper staring at free agency after next season, this year may be the best shot Washington has got to finally break the jinx and go to the Series.
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ
Today's topic is: ARTS & LEISURE...
1. What Shakespeare character is it considered bad luck to mention in a theater?
2. Is Michaelangelo's famed 1516 work titled The Dying Slave a painting or sculpture?
3. What famed painting, missing for two years, turned up in a shabby room in Florence in 1913?
4. What is Don Quixote's horse named?
5. How many panels make up the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel?
6. Which hand did Leonardo da Vinci paint with?
7. Which way does Whistler's mother face?
8. How many periods should appear at the end of a sentence that finishes with an ellipse?
9. Which of Mary's arms supports Jesus in Michaelangelo's Pieta?
10.Which of Romulus and Remus kills the other?
ANSWERS-
1. Macbeth
2. A sculpture
3. Mona Lisa
4. Rosinante
5. Nine
6. Right
7. Left
8. Four
9. The right
10. Romulus
1. What Shakespeare character is it considered bad luck to mention in a theater?
2. Is Michaelangelo's famed 1516 work titled The Dying Slave a painting or sculpture?
3. What famed painting, missing for two years, turned up in a shabby room in Florence in 1913?
4. What is Don Quixote's horse named?
5. How many panels make up the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel?
6. Which hand did Leonardo da Vinci paint with?
7. Which way does Whistler's mother face?
8. How many periods should appear at the end of a sentence that finishes with an ellipse?
9. Which of Mary's arms supports Jesus in Michaelangelo's Pieta?
10.Which of Romulus and Remus kills the other?
ANSWERS-
1. Macbeth
2. A sculpture
3. Mona Lisa
4. Rosinante
5. Nine
6. Right
7. Left
8. Four
9. The right
10. Romulus
IN THE NEWS- FEDS CLARIFY NEW RULE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS TRUSTS
Disability Scoop offers this article..
Special needs trusts have a new level of flexibility and federal officials are working to ensure that state Medicaid directors understand the implications.
Under a law passed late last year, individuals with disabilities can for the first time establish special needs trusts for themselves.
The shift, designed to make saving money easier for those with disabilities, is significant. Previously, trusts had to be created by a third party.
Now, federal Medicaid officials are offering guidance on what the change means for state programs.
"A trust established on or after December 13, 2016, by an individual with a disability under age 65 for his or her own benefit can qualify as a special needs trust, conferring the same benefits as a special needs trust set up by a parent, grandparent, legal guardian or court," wrote Brian Neale, director of the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services in a letter to state Medicaid directors this month. "The other defining features of a special needs trust remain unchanged."
To qualify as a special needs trust, Neale said that a trust must contain the assets of an individual with a disability who's under age 65, he created for that person's benefit and include a provision that any remaining assets be repaid to the state at the time of that person's death up to the value the state provided in medical assistance.
In many cases individuals with disabilities face a cap on the assets they can have in their name in order to qualify for Medicaid and other government programs. Special needs trusts are one of a few ways that individuals with disabilities can accrue more assets without losing eligibility.
Allowing individuals to form trusts for themselves "supports the independence of individuals with disabilities," Neale noted in the guidance.
Special needs trusts have a new level of flexibility and federal officials are working to ensure that state Medicaid directors understand the implications.
Under a law passed late last year, individuals with disabilities can for the first time establish special needs trusts for themselves.
The shift, designed to make saving money easier for those with disabilities, is significant. Previously, trusts had to be created by a third party.
Now, federal Medicaid officials are offering guidance on what the change means for state programs.
"A trust established on or after December 13, 2016, by an individual with a disability under age 65 for his or her own benefit can qualify as a special needs trust, conferring the same benefits as a special needs trust set up by a parent, grandparent, legal guardian or court," wrote Brian Neale, director of the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services in a letter to state Medicaid directors this month. "The other defining features of a special needs trust remain unchanged."
To qualify as a special needs trust, Neale said that a trust must contain the assets of an individual with a disability who's under age 65, he created for that person's benefit and include a provision that any remaining assets be repaid to the state at the time of that person's death up to the value the state provided in medical assistance.
In many cases individuals with disabilities face a cap on the assets they can have in their name in order to qualify for Medicaid and other government programs. Special needs trusts are one of a few ways that individuals with disabilities can accrue more assets without losing eligibility.
Allowing individuals to form trusts for themselves "supports the independence of individuals with disabilities," Neale noted in the guidance.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER
Currently in Philly sports...
PHILLIES-
* The Phils lost a doubleheader last night to Miami, as the march to 100 losses continues. Only 21 more and the team will lose 100 ballgames in a season for the first time since 1961.
It could be another long week for the Phillies. After two more games with the Marlins, the world champion Cubs invade Citizens Bank Park over the weekend. Chicago is trying to put distance between them and Milwaukee, St. Louis and Pittsburgh in NL Central.
Once again a visiting team come into the Phillies' home park and crushes the pitching staff. Nola and Pivetta both got shelled last night. With Leiter Jr. and Thompson closing the Miami series look for a surging Marlins club to sweep.
* Speaking of Miami, they are still on target for a wild card berth, only 6 out and climbing. Both Colorado and Arizona are in their cross hairs, plus Miami still has games left with both the Rockies and Diamondbacks.
Would the Marlins still be willing to trade slugger Giancarlos Stanton ( who sits at 46 home runs) and Christian Yelich in the off-season? I doubt it, with mew owners taking over the Miami franchise. Stanton is someone to build around, despite the huge contract, and Yelich is a solid overall player. With a line-up loaded with talent, a nice combination of speed and power, you got to wonder how much different this season would've been if pitcher Jose Fernandez was still around.
So, if I were the Phillies, I would be interested in Stanton and Yelich if available. Offer the Marlins Franco and Herrera to start with. An outfield of Stanton, Yelich, Altherr/Williams is solid. With an infield of Hoskins, Kingery, Galvis/Crawford and who knows at third base, the Phillies immediately have a line-up to reckon with.
Most of all, this organization needs a face on the franchise. If it can't be Mike Trout for 3 years, why not Stanton for now? Hitting 46 homers in Miami is one thing; smashing 46 homers in Citizens Bank Park is another. Stanton might hit 60 playing in a small bandbox like CBP 81 games a year.
* Vince Valasquez is finished for the season. The young pitcher is having surgery on his middle finger for some sort of vascular issue. GM Matt Kletak thinks he can return next year as a starter. Another bad thought by the inept general manger. Valasquez should move to the bullpen next spring training as the new closer. The team had said they want more innings from Valasquez then a few relief appearances every week as a closer.
Valasquez only gave them 70 innings this year get it that starting pitching is a premium in the majors, but the Phils should try Valasquez where he may flourish. At this point, why not give it a try?
* Ichiro is amazing. He smacked a long home run in the first game of the doubleheader last night. He leads the majors in pinch-hits. He intends to keep playing a few more years before ending up in Cooperstown someday. A great player who gets his due, but to me, is still under-rated.
EAGLES-
Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Zach Berman did his weekly Q & A session on philly.com yesterday afternoon. I got thru with a question about Eagles football, which was:
What are the chances the Eagles bring back Shady McCoy from Buffalo?
The Birds need a running back, McCoy is still only 29 and is still playing well. Buffalo seems to be collecting draft picks, trading CB Darby to the Eagles and WR Watkins to the Rams.
Berman's answer was:
The Eagles don't have the draft picks to get it done.
I suppose the Bills are at least looking for a 3rd-rounder? Hopefully GM Howie Roseman explores the possibility.
SIXERS-
Interesting trade last night, the Celtics getting Kyrie Irving form Cleveland and sending Isaiah Thomas to the Cavs ( plus the Nets' 1st-round draft pick next June). The trade makes Boston the favorite with the Cavaliers to win the east. it also heats up the rivalry with the Sixers for years to come (Irving is only 25).
The Sixers' home opener is against Boston. Too bad another home game vs. the Celts will take place January 11 in London, England.
PHILLIES-
* The Phils lost a doubleheader last night to Miami, as the march to 100 losses continues. Only 21 more and the team will lose 100 ballgames in a season for the first time since 1961.
It could be another long week for the Phillies. After two more games with the Marlins, the world champion Cubs invade Citizens Bank Park over the weekend. Chicago is trying to put distance between them and Milwaukee, St. Louis and Pittsburgh in NL Central.
Once again a visiting team come into the Phillies' home park and crushes the pitching staff. Nola and Pivetta both got shelled last night. With Leiter Jr. and Thompson closing the Miami series look for a surging Marlins club to sweep.
* Speaking of Miami, they are still on target for a wild card berth, only 6 out and climbing. Both Colorado and Arizona are in their cross hairs, plus Miami still has games left with both the Rockies and Diamondbacks.
Would the Marlins still be willing to trade slugger Giancarlos Stanton ( who sits at 46 home runs) and Christian Yelich in the off-season? I doubt it, with mew owners taking over the Miami franchise. Stanton is someone to build around, despite the huge contract, and Yelich is a solid overall player. With a line-up loaded with talent, a nice combination of speed and power, you got to wonder how much different this season would've been if pitcher Jose Fernandez was still around.
So, if I were the Phillies, I would be interested in Stanton and Yelich if available. Offer the Marlins Franco and Herrera to start with. An outfield of Stanton, Yelich, Altherr/Williams is solid. With an infield of Hoskins, Kingery, Galvis/Crawford and who knows at third base, the Phillies immediately have a line-up to reckon with.
Most of all, this organization needs a face on the franchise. If it can't be Mike Trout for 3 years, why not Stanton for now? Hitting 46 homers in Miami is one thing; smashing 46 homers in Citizens Bank Park is another. Stanton might hit 60 playing in a small bandbox like CBP 81 games a year.
* Vince Valasquez is finished for the season. The young pitcher is having surgery on his middle finger for some sort of vascular issue. GM Matt Kletak thinks he can return next year as a starter. Another bad thought by the inept general manger. Valasquez should move to the bullpen next spring training as the new closer. The team had said they want more innings from Valasquez then a few relief appearances every week as a closer.
Valasquez only gave them 70 innings this year get it that starting pitching is a premium in the majors, but the Phils should try Valasquez where he may flourish. At this point, why not give it a try?
* Ichiro is amazing. He smacked a long home run in the first game of the doubleheader last night. He leads the majors in pinch-hits. He intends to keep playing a few more years before ending up in Cooperstown someday. A great player who gets his due, but to me, is still under-rated.
EAGLES-
Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Zach Berman did his weekly Q & A session on philly.com yesterday afternoon. I got thru with a question about Eagles football, which was:
What are the chances the Eagles bring back Shady McCoy from Buffalo?
The Birds need a running back, McCoy is still only 29 and is still playing well. Buffalo seems to be collecting draft picks, trading CB Darby to the Eagles and WR Watkins to the Rams.
Berman's answer was:
The Eagles don't have the draft picks to get it done.
I suppose the Bills are at least looking for a 3rd-rounder? Hopefully GM Howie Roseman explores the possibility.
SIXERS-
Interesting trade last night, the Celtics getting Kyrie Irving form Cleveland and sending Isaiah Thomas to the Cavs ( plus the Nets' 1st-round draft pick next June). The trade makes Boston the favorite with the Cavaliers to win the east. it also heats up the rivalry with the Sixers for years to come (Irving is only 25).
The Sixers' home opener is against Boston. Too bad another home game vs. the Celts will take place January 11 in London, England.
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
IN THE NEWS- RESEARCH POINTS TO GENETIC LINK TO CEREBRAL PALSY
Another interesting piece from Disability Scoop..
A new study finds a stronger genetic link to cerebral palsy than previously thought prompting researchers to recommend genetic testing for those with the most common form of the condition.
More than 20 percent of kids with hemiplegic cerebral palsy have rare copy-number variations- or structural alterations to their DNA- affecting genes instrumental in brain development, according to findings published this month in the journal Genetics in Medicine.
Ina bout 5 percent of such children, researchers said the copy-number variation was likely the cause of their cerebral palsy.
The findings come from a DNA analysis of 97 kids with hemiplegic cerebral palsy- which affects just one side of the body- and their parents. results were compared to those from more than 10,000 people without the developmental disability.
The genetic variations were far more prevalent in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy- the most common form of the condition- than in the control group, the study indicated.
"We are getting closer to understanding the complex biology of CP and the potential ' brain development' genes that impact a child's risk of developing it," said Darcy Fehlings, a senior clinician scientist at Holland Bloorview Kids rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto who worked on the study. "Clinically this supports the use of genomic testing as part of forming the work-up for a child with hemiplegic CP."
Ultimately, researchers said understanding the genetics behind cerebral palsy could lead to new treatment options while also providing families better information about why their child developed the condition.
A new study finds a stronger genetic link to cerebral palsy than previously thought prompting researchers to recommend genetic testing for those with the most common form of the condition.
More than 20 percent of kids with hemiplegic cerebral palsy have rare copy-number variations- or structural alterations to their DNA- affecting genes instrumental in brain development, according to findings published this month in the journal Genetics in Medicine.
Ina bout 5 percent of such children, researchers said the copy-number variation was likely the cause of their cerebral palsy.
The findings come from a DNA analysis of 97 kids with hemiplegic cerebral palsy- which affects just one side of the body- and their parents. results were compared to those from more than 10,000 people without the developmental disability.
The genetic variations were far more prevalent in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy- the most common form of the condition- than in the control group, the study indicated.
"We are getting closer to understanding the complex biology of CP and the potential ' brain development' genes that impact a child's risk of developing it," said Darcy Fehlings, a senior clinician scientist at Holland Bloorview Kids rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto who worked on the study. "Clinically this supports the use of genomic testing as part of forming the work-up for a child with hemiplegic CP."
Ultimately, researchers said understanding the genetics behind cerebral palsy could lead to new treatment options while also providing families better information about why their child developed the condition.
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ
Today's Back to School Quiz is about: SCIENCE & NATURE
1. Do alligators lay eggs?
2. What's the transparent tissue that covers the iris and pupil of an eye called?
3. What facial features does your vomer separate?
4. How many kilometers are there in a megameter?
5. What kind of clouds float higher- stratus or cirrostratus?
6. Are a rabbit's eyes open at birth?
7. What's a male giraffe called?
8. What color eyes are most sensitive to light?
9. What's the most common form of cancer?
10. What did Benjamin Franklin roast in the first electric cooking experiment?
ANSWERS-
1. Yes
2. The cornea
3. Nostrils
4. 1,000
5. Cirrostratus
6. Yes
7. A bull
8. Blue
9. Skin cancer
10. Turkey
1. Do alligators lay eggs?
2. What's the transparent tissue that covers the iris and pupil of an eye called?
3. What facial features does your vomer separate?
4. How many kilometers are there in a megameter?
5. What kind of clouds float higher- stratus or cirrostratus?
6. Are a rabbit's eyes open at birth?
7. What's a male giraffe called?
8. What color eyes are most sensitive to light?
9. What's the most common form of cancer?
10. What did Benjamin Franklin roast in the first electric cooking experiment?
ANSWERS-
1. Yes
2. The cornea
3. Nostrils
4. 1,000
5. Cirrostratus
6. Yes
7. A bull
8. Blue
9. Skin cancer
10. Turkey
IN THE NEWS- DISABILITY SUITS FUEL RISE IN CIVIL RIGHTS CLAIMS AGAINST SCHOOLS
From Disability Scoop..
Civil rights lawsuits against schools are on track to double compared to disability-related claims, according to a new review of federal court filings.
So far this year, 497 suits have been filed in federal courts across the country involving schools or universities that allege various civil rights violations.
More than 40 percent of the cases center on the treatment of students with disabilities. And nearly half involve allegations brought under the Americans with Disabilities Act and similar laws.
The figures come from an analysis of court data put together by the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University. The organization regularly assess trends in various areas of civil litigation in the U.S. district courts.
Based on activity so far, the report projects that nearly 600 civil rights lawsuits involving educational institutions are expected to be filed this year, more than in any year since the courts began tracking these types of cases in late 2011.
Most of the civil rights litigation filed this year was brought in the Southern District of New York in Manhattan followed by courts in New Jersey and Washington, D.C., the report found.
Civil rights lawsuits against schools are on track to double compared to disability-related claims, according to a new review of federal court filings.
So far this year, 497 suits have been filed in federal courts across the country involving schools or universities that allege various civil rights violations.
More than 40 percent of the cases center on the treatment of students with disabilities. And nearly half involve allegations brought under the Americans with Disabilities Act and similar laws.
The figures come from an analysis of court data put together by the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University. The organization regularly assess trends in various areas of civil litigation in the U.S. district courts.
Based on activity so far, the report projects that nearly 600 civil rights lawsuits involving educational institutions are expected to be filed this year, more than in any year since the courts began tracking these types of cases in late 2011.
Most of the civil rights litigation filed this year was brought in the Southern District of New York in Manhattan followed by courts in New Jersey and Washington, D.C., the report found.
Monday, August 21, 2017
IN MY LIFE- ECLIPSE PT. 2, JERRY LEWIS, WIP RADIO
Whar's happening....
* Eclipse, Part 2....
Well, I didn't have the special glasses so I stayed in this afternoon and watched the events on ABC. Seems to me that if you weren't in the "Path of Totality" the Great American Eclipse was somewhat of a disappointment.
In the Path, which extended a thin 70 miles wide across the country, day turned into night, and the sun was completely covered \by the moon. It was a cool sight and had to be an eerie atmosphere, the temperature dropping, the stars out in the middle of the afternoon, and a ring of brightness around the sun and the moon. A ring of fire, so to speak.
Since it was a relatively bright day where I live in Phoenixville, the view had to be good, plus the contrast- form bright to dark- made the experience even more dramatic.
To me, 80% was OK, but disappointing. The sky grew to a dusky view, almost as if a storm was moving in. Not really twilight, certainly not dark.
If you had the special glasses you can save them until the year 2024 when the next solar eclipse will race over North America. The Path of Totality will move from the southern states up to the northeast. Philly will be 90% covered. Western Pennsylvania will be in total darkness.
For those who traveled to see the eclipse, it had to be worth it. A once in a lifetime event, for sure. Plus, in a country that is currently divided, science, nature and God brought Americans together, if only for a while.
In 2079 a solar eclipse will start right over Philadelphia and extend out to the Atlantic Ocean. I won't be around but kids, grand kids and the next generation should find it awesome.
****************************************************************************
* Comedian Jerry Lewis died over the weekend. He was 01.
I wasn't a big fan, but I do remember watching Dean martin and Jerry Lewis as a kid with my dad, and laughing out loud.
Lewis' comedy was physical, pratfalls, mugging, a high-pitched, whiny voice. He was goofy but funny, certainly not high-brow humor but humor nonetheless.
You either loved Jerry Lewis or hated him, no in-between.
In France, Jerry was treated like a comic genius, up there with greats like Charlie Chaplin. Dino, Lewis was the highest-paid performer on TV or in the movies.
I gave him credit for hosting the MD Telethon for 39 years. Despite allegations that Lewis had skimmed money off the telethon for his own persona use, ( which was never proven), and the fact Lewis used the show as a pulpit to pontificate , he did it. he stayed up all night every Labor Day weekend, and even though he was a terrible singer, one had to tear-up at the end when he passionately sang "You'll Never Walk Alone." Labor Day weekend wasn't the same without the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon.
So, all in all, I liked Jerry Lewis and will mis shim, but we always have the fun and the movies to look back on forever.
****************************************************************************
* I like to listen to Sporstradio WIP, 94.5 FM. One of my favorite shows on WIP is the Morning Show with Angelo Catadi. Angelo is fun, entertaining and knows his sports, even if most of his daily act is shtick.
Angelo is on a much-deserved vacation for the next two weeks. Filling in, along with regulars Al Morganti and Rhea Hughes, is Marc Farzetta.
Angelo, please come back soon!
I can't stand Farzeeta. He thinks he is cool,a typical millennial,a temple grad who got his job at WIP because Hughes is a Temple grad too.
Farzetta hosts the 700 Level show on Comcast, and does special segments and bits on the radio, including "Hot Seat" ( interesting commentary, when you get by the stupid "Hot Seat" whispers in-between comments) and Farzy in the Field, where Farzetta goes out and interviews drunken millennials about different sports topics. Equally stupid.
Farzeeta needs to stay with this second-rate segments. Hosting a 3-4 hour radio show isn't in the cards for him, basically because he sucks.
I don't have anything personally against him. I don't even know him. I just don't like him doing sports.
Hopefully seasoned pros like Ricky Ricardo fill in until Angelo returns, just in time for the Eagles' opener vs. Washington .Until then, I'll lsiten for the guests, but if Farzetta hosts, I'll listen to another station instead.
Angelo, please don't retire too soon...
* Eclipse, Part 2....
Well, I didn't have the special glasses so I stayed in this afternoon and watched the events on ABC. Seems to me that if you weren't in the "Path of Totality" the Great American Eclipse was somewhat of a disappointment.
In the Path, which extended a thin 70 miles wide across the country, day turned into night, and the sun was completely covered \by the moon. It was a cool sight and had to be an eerie atmosphere, the temperature dropping, the stars out in the middle of the afternoon, and a ring of brightness around the sun and the moon. A ring of fire, so to speak.
Since it was a relatively bright day where I live in Phoenixville, the view had to be good, plus the contrast- form bright to dark- made the experience even more dramatic.
To me, 80% was OK, but disappointing. The sky grew to a dusky view, almost as if a storm was moving in. Not really twilight, certainly not dark.
If you had the special glasses you can save them until the year 2024 when the next solar eclipse will race over North America. The Path of Totality will move from the southern states up to the northeast. Philly will be 90% covered. Western Pennsylvania will be in total darkness.
For those who traveled to see the eclipse, it had to be worth it. A once in a lifetime event, for sure. Plus, in a country that is currently divided, science, nature and God brought Americans together, if only for a while.
In 2079 a solar eclipse will start right over Philadelphia and extend out to the Atlantic Ocean. I won't be around but kids, grand kids and the next generation should find it awesome.
****************************************************************************
* Comedian Jerry Lewis died over the weekend. He was 01.
I wasn't a big fan, but I do remember watching Dean martin and Jerry Lewis as a kid with my dad, and laughing out loud.
Lewis' comedy was physical, pratfalls, mugging, a high-pitched, whiny voice. He was goofy but funny, certainly not high-brow humor but humor nonetheless.
You either loved Jerry Lewis or hated him, no in-between.
In France, Jerry was treated like a comic genius, up there with greats like Charlie Chaplin. Dino, Lewis was the highest-paid performer on TV or in the movies.
I gave him credit for hosting the MD Telethon for 39 years. Despite allegations that Lewis had skimmed money off the telethon for his own persona use, ( which was never proven), and the fact Lewis used the show as a pulpit to pontificate , he did it. he stayed up all night every Labor Day weekend, and even though he was a terrible singer, one had to tear-up at the end when he passionately sang "You'll Never Walk Alone." Labor Day weekend wasn't the same without the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon.
So, all in all, I liked Jerry Lewis and will mis shim, but we always have the fun and the movies to look back on forever.
****************************************************************************
* I like to listen to Sporstradio WIP, 94.5 FM. One of my favorite shows on WIP is the Morning Show with Angelo Catadi. Angelo is fun, entertaining and knows his sports, even if most of his daily act is shtick.
Angelo is on a much-deserved vacation for the next two weeks. Filling in, along with regulars Al Morganti and Rhea Hughes, is Marc Farzetta.
Angelo, please come back soon!
I can't stand Farzeeta. He thinks he is cool,a typical millennial,a temple grad who got his job at WIP because Hughes is a Temple grad too.
Farzetta hosts the 700 Level show on Comcast, and does special segments and bits on the radio, including "Hot Seat" ( interesting commentary, when you get by the stupid "Hot Seat" whispers in-between comments) and Farzy in the Field, where Farzetta goes out and interviews drunken millennials about different sports topics. Equally stupid.
Farzeeta needs to stay with this second-rate segments. Hosting a 3-4 hour radio show isn't in the cards for him, basically because he sucks.
I don't have anything personally against him. I don't even know him. I just don't like him doing sports.
Hopefully seasoned pros like Ricky Ricardo fill in until Angelo returns, just in time for the Eagles' opener vs. Washington .Until then, I'll lsiten for the guests, but if Farzetta hosts, I'll listen to another station instead.
Angelo, please don't retire too soon...
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ
In honor of school starting again son, a daily \trivia quiz. Today's topic is: HISTORY..
1. How many U.S. Presidents weren't born in North America?
2. How many children did Henry VIII's children have?
3. What English explorer was the first man to circumnavigate the globe in one voyage?
4. What denomination coin did George Washington's portrait first appear on?
5. What's the claim to fame of the French town of Ste. Mere Eglise, achieved in June, 1944?
6. Who, two weeks earlier, had slept in the same bed Abraham Lincoln died in?
7. What President was buried at his ancestral home overlooking the Hudson River at Hyde Park, New York?
8. What President served for 5 years, 6 months and 20 days?
9. How much money, ironically, was Abraham Lincoln carrying when he was shot?
10. Who held 10 government posts, the most in British history?
ANSWERS-
1. Zero
2. Zero
3. Sir Francis Drake
4. Twenty-five cents
5. It was the first liberated on D-Day
6. John Wilkes Booth
7. Franklin D. Roosevelt
8. Richard Nixon
9. Five dollars
10. Winston Churchill
1. How many U.S. Presidents weren't born in North America?
2. How many children did Henry VIII's children have?
3. What English explorer was the first man to circumnavigate the globe in one voyage?
4. What denomination coin did George Washington's portrait first appear on?
5. What's the claim to fame of the French town of Ste. Mere Eglise, achieved in June, 1944?
6. Who, two weeks earlier, had slept in the same bed Abraham Lincoln died in?
7. What President was buried at his ancestral home overlooking the Hudson River at Hyde Park, New York?
8. What President served for 5 years, 6 months and 20 days?
9. How much money, ironically, was Abraham Lincoln carrying when he was shot?
10. Who held 10 government posts, the most in British history?
ANSWERS-
1. Zero
2. Zero
3. Sir Francis Drake
4. Twenty-five cents
5. It was the first liberated on D-Day
6. John Wilkes Booth
7. Franklin D. Roosevelt
8. Richard Nixon
9. Five dollars
10. Winston Churchill
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER
A weekend of Philly sports...
EAGLES-
* The Birds practice with the Miami Dolphins this week before playing Miami on Thursday night at the Linc.
Big week for the team, as roster spots shake out. Rumors that RB LaGarrette Blount will be cut before the season starts. Why sign the guy to be your short-yardage back, if you don't use him properly? Blount isn't meant to run sweep plays, as was the very first play last Thursday against the Bills. He's not an everyday guy wither. I thought Wendell Smallwood was going to be the 15-20 carry a game runner anyway, with Blount in special situations?
Smallwood has been hurt during camp. Backs Clement, Sproles and Pumphrey have taken up the slack.
The Eagles may regret not trading up a few selections in the 2nd round of the drat last spring and taking RB Delvin Cook. He looks to be an every-down guy, with power and speed.
Would CB Sidney Jones still be there in the 3rd round to select if the Birds would have taken Cook? How many other teams wanted to risk a high pick on an injured Jones? Taking Darrick Barnett then Cook would have been a terrific draft for Philly, filling two needs immediately. Now, the running backs situation looks cloudy. The Eagles may have to use a high pick next spring for a running back. They have their first rounder, but then don't pick again until round 4.
* It will be reassuring to see back-up quarterback Nick Foles play on Thursday night. He has not played at all due to a sore right shoulder.
* I don't worry about WR Alshon Jeffery "being behind" the other receivers. It's pre-season. I'll get concerned if he isn't ready to roll on opening day vs. Washington.
* The value for LB Mychal Kendricks may never get higher, but I would think wice before I trade him away. The linebacker corps is already lacking in depth. The Eagles would save $ 4 million in cap space. Getting a runner back, another corner or maybe a draft pick in return isn't a bad idea, I just wouldn't give Kendricks away.
* With Buffalo tanking the season, would they consider trading LeSean McCoy back to the Eagles?
The Birds need a running back. Shady is still only 29. Yes, running backs usually hit a wall around the age of 30. But why not bring McCoy back for a few seasons? it would give the Eagles a chance to groom a young rusher. The Bills seem to be collecting draft picks. The Birds just got a 5th-rounder today for Matt Tobin. Deal the 5th-rounder to Buffalo for Shady?
* The more I think about it, the more I'm leaning towards the New York Giants winning the NFC East. I'm not a Giants fan. I just think they have the most solid team right now.
Dallas has too many issues. Plus no team has won the division in back-to-back years since 2004.
Washington has questions too, with the Kirk Cousins situation looming over the Redskins.
The Eagles? Still too many "what ifs?" and questions at running back and the secondary. I think the Birds will be better and I'm sticking with my 10-6 prediction.
The Philadelphia home opener will be a huge game early in the season. It's against rival New York, plus with a December contest on the road with the Giants, coming off a West Coast trip consisting of games with the Seahawks and Rams, that will be tough for the Eagles, the September match-up is key. Of course, the Eagles usually play the G-men tough at the Linc. The crowd will be fired-up. And after two road games to start the season, the Birds should be prepared to win at home vs. New York.
Still, at least right now, I have this little voice inside saying that the Giants are team to beat in the NFC East.
* Defensive end Vinny Curry needs to step it up. After getting a long-term contract, Curry has disappeared. Curry needs to become a pass rushing force again, with rookie Derrick Barnett breathing down his neck. Otherwise, Curry may forever be known as a guy with great potential who took the money and ran.
* Tight end Zach Ertz needs to finally have a break-out season or else he will be always labeled a big miss. Trey Burton is already pushing Ertz, so Ertz needs to pick it up and finally live up to the potential he came out of Stanford with. Was he over-evaluated to begin with? Time will tell, but in this offense, with a maturing Carson Wentz, there's no reason why Ertz shouldn't take that next step to the Pro Bowl.
*************************************************************************
PHILIIES-
* The Phils return home for a rare twi-night doubleheader tomorrow vs the Miami Marlins ( it's Philadelphia vs. Miami week).The team split their 4-game series with San Francisco over the weekend. The two victories are the first and only two wins the club has had in California all season, losing 3 in Los Angeles, 3 in San Diego and 3 in Anaheim.
* Isn't it funny how the team started playing better once the struggling Tommy Joseph was benched and the kids from Lehigh Valley were given a chance to play? Hoskins ( who had 5 home runs on the West Coast trip), Williams and Alfaro are all playing well. Makes you wonder how the season may have been different if only the kids were given a chance to play soon.
OK, maybe not that much different, as the pitching sucks. Aaron Nola has been the only consistent starter. I'm beginning to think that Jared Eichoff is over-rated. Guys like Pivetta, Eflin, Thompson and Lively are all the same. Valasquez is still on the disabled list.
At least the kids are giving the team a burst of energy, and giving the fans some hope and a taste of what's to come.
Scott Kingery has an 18-game hitting streak at Lehigh Valley. J.P. Crawford is hitting better and played at third base Sunday for the Iron Pigs. Benching the under-achieving Mychel Franco in September, in favor of Crawford, is a possibility.
I don't like the erratic behavior by the manager and front office, of having so many guys playing out of position. Alfaro at first base and Hoskins in left field are prime examples. I get it, trying to keep these guys in the line-up for their bats. I just think it wakens the defense when struggling players like Joseph, Franco and Rupp should be bench-warmers at this point of the 2018 campaign.
Moving guys to new positions snacks of the organization not having a plan.I understand having flexibility, but moving Hoskins to the outfield 3 days before he is called up to Philly?
I posted it before but here is my Opening Day line-up for next year:
1B- Hoskins
2B- Kingery
SS- Galvis
3B- Franco
LF- Williams
CF- Altherr
RF- Cozens
C- Alfaro
Trade Herrera while you can for pitching. Knapp is your back-up catcher. Franco gets one last chance. He is still only 24. Deal him at the July deadline next summer if he continues to fail. Keep Galvis for his glove and his leadership. Give Cozens a chance in the outfield. Trade Hernandez for pitching.
It's a line-up full of power, speed and youth. Exciting, entertaining, energetic and maybe a surprise for long-suffering Phillies fans. Hey, what do you have to lose?
************************************************************************
Finally, the next eclipse will occur in 2024. What will happen first- the next eclipse or the next Philadelphia sports championship?
EAGLES-
* The Birds practice with the Miami Dolphins this week before playing Miami on Thursday night at the Linc.
Big week for the team, as roster spots shake out. Rumors that RB LaGarrette Blount will be cut before the season starts. Why sign the guy to be your short-yardage back, if you don't use him properly? Blount isn't meant to run sweep plays, as was the very first play last Thursday against the Bills. He's not an everyday guy wither. I thought Wendell Smallwood was going to be the 15-20 carry a game runner anyway, with Blount in special situations?
Smallwood has been hurt during camp. Backs Clement, Sproles and Pumphrey have taken up the slack.
The Eagles may regret not trading up a few selections in the 2nd round of the drat last spring and taking RB Delvin Cook. He looks to be an every-down guy, with power and speed.
Would CB Sidney Jones still be there in the 3rd round to select if the Birds would have taken Cook? How many other teams wanted to risk a high pick on an injured Jones? Taking Darrick Barnett then Cook would have been a terrific draft for Philly, filling two needs immediately. Now, the running backs situation looks cloudy. The Eagles may have to use a high pick next spring for a running back. They have their first rounder, but then don't pick again until round 4.
* It will be reassuring to see back-up quarterback Nick Foles play on Thursday night. He has not played at all due to a sore right shoulder.
* I don't worry about WR Alshon Jeffery "being behind" the other receivers. It's pre-season. I'll get concerned if he isn't ready to roll on opening day vs. Washington.
* The value for LB Mychal Kendricks may never get higher, but I would think wice before I trade him away. The linebacker corps is already lacking in depth. The Eagles would save $ 4 million in cap space. Getting a runner back, another corner or maybe a draft pick in return isn't a bad idea, I just wouldn't give Kendricks away.
* With Buffalo tanking the season, would they consider trading LeSean McCoy back to the Eagles?
The Birds need a running back. Shady is still only 29. Yes, running backs usually hit a wall around the age of 30. But why not bring McCoy back for a few seasons? it would give the Eagles a chance to groom a young rusher. The Bills seem to be collecting draft picks. The Birds just got a 5th-rounder today for Matt Tobin. Deal the 5th-rounder to Buffalo for Shady?
* The more I think about it, the more I'm leaning towards the New York Giants winning the NFC East. I'm not a Giants fan. I just think they have the most solid team right now.
Dallas has too many issues. Plus no team has won the division in back-to-back years since 2004.
Washington has questions too, with the Kirk Cousins situation looming over the Redskins.
The Eagles? Still too many "what ifs?" and questions at running back and the secondary. I think the Birds will be better and I'm sticking with my 10-6 prediction.
The Philadelphia home opener will be a huge game early in the season. It's against rival New York, plus with a December contest on the road with the Giants, coming off a West Coast trip consisting of games with the Seahawks and Rams, that will be tough for the Eagles, the September match-up is key. Of course, the Eagles usually play the G-men tough at the Linc. The crowd will be fired-up. And after two road games to start the season, the Birds should be prepared to win at home vs. New York.
Still, at least right now, I have this little voice inside saying that the Giants are team to beat in the NFC East.
* Defensive end Vinny Curry needs to step it up. After getting a long-term contract, Curry has disappeared. Curry needs to become a pass rushing force again, with rookie Derrick Barnett breathing down his neck. Otherwise, Curry may forever be known as a guy with great potential who took the money and ran.
* Tight end Zach Ertz needs to finally have a break-out season or else he will be always labeled a big miss. Trey Burton is already pushing Ertz, so Ertz needs to pick it up and finally live up to the potential he came out of Stanford with. Was he over-evaluated to begin with? Time will tell, but in this offense, with a maturing Carson Wentz, there's no reason why Ertz shouldn't take that next step to the Pro Bowl.
*************************************************************************
PHILIIES-
* The Phils return home for a rare twi-night doubleheader tomorrow vs the Miami Marlins ( it's Philadelphia vs. Miami week).The team split their 4-game series with San Francisco over the weekend. The two victories are the first and only two wins the club has had in California all season, losing 3 in Los Angeles, 3 in San Diego and 3 in Anaheim.
* Isn't it funny how the team started playing better once the struggling Tommy Joseph was benched and the kids from Lehigh Valley were given a chance to play? Hoskins ( who had 5 home runs on the West Coast trip), Williams and Alfaro are all playing well. Makes you wonder how the season may have been different if only the kids were given a chance to play soon.
OK, maybe not that much different, as the pitching sucks. Aaron Nola has been the only consistent starter. I'm beginning to think that Jared Eichoff is over-rated. Guys like Pivetta, Eflin, Thompson and Lively are all the same. Valasquez is still on the disabled list.
At least the kids are giving the team a burst of energy, and giving the fans some hope and a taste of what's to come.
Scott Kingery has an 18-game hitting streak at Lehigh Valley. J.P. Crawford is hitting better and played at third base Sunday for the Iron Pigs. Benching the under-achieving Mychel Franco in September, in favor of Crawford, is a possibility.
I don't like the erratic behavior by the manager and front office, of having so many guys playing out of position. Alfaro at first base and Hoskins in left field are prime examples. I get it, trying to keep these guys in the line-up for their bats. I just think it wakens the defense when struggling players like Joseph, Franco and Rupp should be bench-warmers at this point of the 2018 campaign.
Moving guys to new positions snacks of the organization not having a plan.I understand having flexibility, but moving Hoskins to the outfield 3 days before he is called up to Philly?
I posted it before but here is my Opening Day line-up for next year:
1B- Hoskins
2B- Kingery
SS- Galvis
3B- Franco
LF- Williams
CF- Altherr
RF- Cozens
C- Alfaro
Trade Herrera while you can for pitching. Knapp is your back-up catcher. Franco gets one last chance. He is still only 24. Deal him at the July deadline next summer if he continues to fail. Keep Galvis for his glove and his leadership. Give Cozens a chance in the outfield. Trade Hernandez for pitching.
It's a line-up full of power, speed and youth. Exciting, entertaining, energetic and maybe a surprise for long-suffering Phillies fans. Hey, what do you have to lose?
************************************************************************
Finally, the next eclipse will occur in 2024. What will happen first- the next eclipse or the next Philadelphia sports championship?
Sunday, August 20, 2017
IN MY LIFE-ECLIPSE
As far as I'm concerned they can call off the eclipse.
I'm sure it will be spectacular. Hasn't been n eclipse in North America since 1979, 38 years ago. The next one won't occur until 2024.
Even though it's been pounded into our heads not to look directly at the sun tomorrow afternoon without special NASA approved glasses, stupid people will risk their vision by checking out the solar eclipse.
Who is their right mind actually stares into the sun anyway? But knowing that something is going on up there may entice folks to stare into the sky, a feeling of "I just gotta do it." A brief glance seems to be OK. And life can go on during the 3 hours of the eclipse, as long as you don't stare at the sun, which most of us don't do anyway.
The media has made a big deal out of the celestial event, calling it The Great American Eclipse. People will take off from work and school; the networks plan special coverage during the afternoon.; people are traveling great distances to join scientists or "viewing parties" to be within the "Path of Totality" where it the sun will be 100% covered by the moon.
We are scheduled top get 80% coverage, a particle eclipse.
It will be interesting to see the effects on nature, with the afternoon turning into night. Animals, birds, flowers- how will they cope with the change?
My hair stylist plans to view it with the special glasses, but alarmingly, someone told her in error, that "You don't need the glasses in Pennsylvania", like Pennsylvania had a special, protective shield over the state? Such misinformation is out there, and unless people are smart, there are bound to health issues.
Will all traffic and work productivity cease on Monday? How many times will the Bonnie Tyler song, "Total Eclipse of the Heart" be played?
It is cool to think that it truly is a United States event, that no matter what your race, creed and religion is, we are all sharing this together. It kind of makes us one and reminds us that we are all on the same page when it comes down to it.
The networks have it all scheduled out precisely. Unless God decides to send a message to the world by doing a Twilight Zone-like world changing surprise, the moon getting stuck in it's orbit, things will go along pretty smoothly.
Luckily for millennial eclipse watchers ( this really is a big-time millennial event),the weather looks like it will be fairly clear all across the country on Monday. And it's our eclipse this time, not an eclipse we only read about or see on the evening news, an eclipse that happened somewhere else in the world.
It's a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence., so it is historic, as it is estimated this will be the most viewed and hyped eclipse in history.
Me? I'm staying inside and waiting it out.
I'm sure it will be spectacular. Hasn't been n eclipse in North America since 1979, 38 years ago. The next one won't occur until 2024.
Even though it's been pounded into our heads not to look directly at the sun tomorrow afternoon without special NASA approved glasses, stupid people will risk their vision by checking out the solar eclipse.
Who is their right mind actually stares into the sun anyway? But knowing that something is going on up there may entice folks to stare into the sky, a feeling of "I just gotta do it." A brief glance seems to be OK. And life can go on during the 3 hours of the eclipse, as long as you don't stare at the sun, which most of us don't do anyway.
The media has made a big deal out of the celestial event, calling it The Great American Eclipse. People will take off from work and school; the networks plan special coverage during the afternoon.; people are traveling great distances to join scientists or "viewing parties" to be within the "Path of Totality" where it the sun will be 100% covered by the moon.
We are scheduled top get 80% coverage, a particle eclipse.
It will be interesting to see the effects on nature, with the afternoon turning into night. Animals, birds, flowers- how will they cope with the change?
My hair stylist plans to view it with the special glasses, but alarmingly, someone told her in error, that "You don't need the glasses in Pennsylvania", like Pennsylvania had a special, protective shield over the state? Such misinformation is out there, and unless people are smart, there are bound to health issues.
Will all traffic and work productivity cease on Monday? How many times will the Bonnie Tyler song, "Total Eclipse of the Heart" be played?
It is cool to think that it truly is a United States event, that no matter what your race, creed and religion is, we are all sharing this together. It kind of makes us one and reminds us that we are all on the same page when it comes down to it.
The networks have it all scheduled out precisely. Unless God decides to send a message to the world by doing a Twilight Zone-like world changing surprise, the moon getting stuck in it's orbit, things will go along pretty smoothly.
Luckily for millennial eclipse watchers ( this really is a big-time millennial event),the weather looks like it will be fairly clear all across the country on Monday. And it's our eclipse this time, not an eclipse we only read about or see on the evening news, an eclipse that happened somewhere else in the world.
It's a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence., so it is historic, as it is estimated this will be the most viewed and hyped eclipse in history.
Me? I'm staying inside and waiting it out.
SPORTS QUIZ
Today's topic is ALL SPORTS..
1. What sport was featured in the first coast-to-coast sports telecast in the U.S,, in 1951?
2. What year did Indy 500 qualifying speeds first exceed 100 m.p.h.- 1919, 1929 or 1939?
3. How many consecutive Olympic basketball championships had the U.S. won before 1972?
4. How was the first run ever scored against the New York Mets in a regular-season game, on April 11, 1962?
5. What year saw the NBA adopt the three-point field goal?
6. What number did George Gervin, the Iceman from the San Antonio Spurs, wear?
7. Who was the last batter Don Larsen retired in his perfect World Series game?
8. How many NBA seasons did Wilt Chamberlain need to score 20,884 points?
9. What Montreal Expos pitcher served up Pete Rose's 3,000 hit?
10. Who was listed as flanker on the all-time AFL team chosen by AFL members of the Hall of Fame selection committee?
ANSWERS-
1. Boxing
2. 1919
3. 7
4. Balk
5. 1979
6. 44
7. Dale Mitchell
8. 7
9. Steve Rogers
10. Lance Alworth
1. What sport was featured in the first coast-to-coast sports telecast in the U.S,, in 1951?
2. What year did Indy 500 qualifying speeds first exceed 100 m.p.h.- 1919, 1929 or 1939?
3. How many consecutive Olympic basketball championships had the U.S. won before 1972?
4. How was the first run ever scored against the New York Mets in a regular-season game, on April 11, 1962?
5. What year saw the NBA adopt the three-point field goal?
6. What number did George Gervin, the Iceman from the San Antonio Spurs, wear?
7. Who was the last batter Don Larsen retired in his perfect World Series game?
8. How many NBA seasons did Wilt Chamberlain need to score 20,884 points?
9. What Montreal Expos pitcher served up Pete Rose's 3,000 hit?
10. Who was listed as flanker on the all-time AFL team chosen by AFL members of the Hall of Fame selection committee?
ANSWERS-
1. Boxing
2. 1919
3. 7
4. Balk
5. 1979
6. 44
7. Dale Mitchell
8. 7
9. Steve Rogers
10. Lance Alworth
Saturday, August 19, 2017
PHILLIES PHODDER
Another loss last night at San Francisco. Make that 6 in a row, 5 of the losses to the awful Padres and Giants. The Phillies are cementing their lock on the overall No. 1 draft pick next June.
The Phillies area total hot mess. Their pitching staff is young and in shambles. Zach Eflin has a sore shoulder after getting shelled last night. Too bad. Nice kid. But it looks like he will always be hurt, first knee problems now arm ailments.
Those once prized pitching prospects have sucked for the most part. Jake Thompson, Ben Lively, even Nick Pivetta, who seems the best of the lot, has his problems. Aaron Nola looks like the real deal, otherwise the organization has either over-evaluated their talent or the pitching coaches are really awful.
It's a disgrace, even on the road, to lose to San Diego and San Francisco. We are seeing,without Aaron Altherr and Odubel Herrera, the line-up is challenged. Tommy Joseph is lost and is proving himself to be the average player he is. Mychal Franco is hitting under .230 and swings at the first pitch all the time. Cesar Hernandez and Freddie Galvis look tired. Rhys Hoskins is playing out of position. Jorge Alfaro has defensive problems but at least he's the future compared to Cameron Rupp. The bullpen, starting with Pinto and Ramos, are not consistent and continue to struggle.
Otherwise the team is great.
They are on a pace to lose 105 games, the most since 1961. Pete Mackanin will be fired. Matt Klentak should be fired. Andy MacFailure is no where to be found, hiding in a bunker with owner John Middleton.
Once school begins and the Eagles'season starts,w ill anybody be at Citizens Bank Park or watch these bums on TV?
I'm the biggest Phillies fan there is, yet I can't stand this group. The only hope is a fresh start next spring, focusing on youngsters like Hoskins, Kingery, Alfaro and Williams.
Don't forget, the Phils still have games left with the world champion Cubs and the red-hot Dodgers. They are going to lose well over 100 games,which is an embarrassment. Philly fans deserve better.
* Hope on the horizon is Mike Trout. He was at the Eagles' pre-season game Thursday night vs Buffalo. Trout's Angels ar eon an east Coast swing, and LA happened to be off on Thursday. So, to trout's credit, he was at the Linc watching his Birds.
Trout will be a Phillie someday. It's just too perfect of a match. This organization needs a face of the franchise,a hometown hero who happens to be one of the greatest players in baseball, now nd in the past.
Problem is, it won't happen until the 2021 season when trout will still be a young 29 years old. Maybe trout can ask for a trade to the Phillies before then? The Phils can afford him. Do they have what it takes to trade for a guy like Trout? Kletak has a history with the Angels' organization. So it can happen.
it probably won't So Trout is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, 3 years away. Getting there will be a tough, rough road, but it will be well worth it.
* Hopefully Marcus Hayes or Kevin Cooney or Todd Zelecki or one of the other shills of the Phillies' organization and Klentak will step up and finally rip this horrible team. Stop kicking Klentak's ass and start being real with the fans and tell it like it is- changes need to be made, starting the day after the season mercifully ends.
The Phillies area total hot mess. Their pitching staff is young and in shambles. Zach Eflin has a sore shoulder after getting shelled last night. Too bad. Nice kid. But it looks like he will always be hurt, first knee problems now arm ailments.
Those once prized pitching prospects have sucked for the most part. Jake Thompson, Ben Lively, even Nick Pivetta, who seems the best of the lot, has his problems. Aaron Nola looks like the real deal, otherwise the organization has either over-evaluated their talent or the pitching coaches are really awful.
It's a disgrace, even on the road, to lose to San Diego and San Francisco. We are seeing,without Aaron Altherr and Odubel Herrera, the line-up is challenged. Tommy Joseph is lost and is proving himself to be the average player he is. Mychal Franco is hitting under .230 and swings at the first pitch all the time. Cesar Hernandez and Freddie Galvis look tired. Rhys Hoskins is playing out of position. Jorge Alfaro has defensive problems but at least he's the future compared to Cameron Rupp. The bullpen, starting with Pinto and Ramos, are not consistent and continue to struggle.
Otherwise the team is great.
They are on a pace to lose 105 games, the most since 1961. Pete Mackanin will be fired. Matt Klentak should be fired. Andy MacFailure is no where to be found, hiding in a bunker with owner John Middleton.
Once school begins and the Eagles'season starts,w ill anybody be at Citizens Bank Park or watch these bums on TV?
I'm the biggest Phillies fan there is, yet I can't stand this group. The only hope is a fresh start next spring, focusing on youngsters like Hoskins, Kingery, Alfaro and Williams.
Don't forget, the Phils still have games left with the world champion Cubs and the red-hot Dodgers. They are going to lose well over 100 games,which is an embarrassment. Philly fans deserve better.
* Hope on the horizon is Mike Trout. He was at the Eagles' pre-season game Thursday night vs Buffalo. Trout's Angels ar eon an east Coast swing, and LA happened to be off on Thursday. So, to trout's credit, he was at the Linc watching his Birds.
Trout will be a Phillie someday. It's just too perfect of a match. This organization needs a face of the franchise,a hometown hero who happens to be one of the greatest players in baseball, now nd in the past.
Problem is, it won't happen until the 2021 season when trout will still be a young 29 years old. Maybe trout can ask for a trade to the Phillies before then? The Phils can afford him. Do they have what it takes to trade for a guy like Trout? Kletak has a history with the Angels' organization. So it can happen.
it probably won't So Trout is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, 3 years away. Getting there will be a tough, rough road, but it will be well worth it.
* Hopefully Marcus Hayes or Kevin Cooney or Todd Zelecki or one of the other shills of the Phillies' organization and Klentak will step up and finally rip this horrible team. Stop kicking Klentak's ass and start being real with the fans and tell it like it is- changes need to be made, starting the day after the season mercifully ends.
Friday, August 18, 2017
SPORTS QUIZ
ALL SPORTS is the topic of today's Sports Quiz..
1. What team won 108 games in 1975, the most by a National League club since 1909?
2. Who's the first player listed in The Official Baseball Encyclopedia?
3. What right hander was the first Houston Astros pitcher to win 20 games?
4. How many teams made up the NBA in its first season (1949-50)?
5 How old was Bobby Riggs when he lost to a 35-year-old Billie Jean King?
6 What team destroyed the Baltimore Colts 70-27 on October 22, 1950, setting a record for the most points in a regular-season game?
7.Did Bill Russell shoot left handed or right handed?
8 Who is the oldest man to get a base hit in the major leagues?
9. Is the name of the pitcher who fanned Casey in the bottom of the ninth ever mentioned in the baseball poem Casey at the Bat?
10 How many games did a team have to win to take baseball's World Series in 1920?
ANSWERS-
1. Cincinnati Reds
2. Hank Aaron
3. Larry Dierker
4. 17
5. 55
6. Los Angeles Rams
7. Left handed
8. Minnie Minoso
9. No
10. 5
1. What team won 108 games in 1975, the most by a National League club since 1909?
2. Who's the first player listed in The Official Baseball Encyclopedia?
3. What right hander was the first Houston Astros pitcher to win 20 games?
4. How many teams made up the NBA in its first season (1949-50)?
5 How old was Bobby Riggs when he lost to a 35-year-old Billie Jean King?
6 What team destroyed the Baltimore Colts 70-27 on October 22, 1950, setting a record for the most points in a regular-season game?
7.Did Bill Russell shoot left handed or right handed?
8 Who is the oldest man to get a base hit in the major leagues?
9. Is the name of the pitcher who fanned Casey in the bottom of the ninth ever mentioned in the baseball poem Casey at the Bat?
10 How many games did a team have to win to take baseball's World Series in 1920?
ANSWERS-
1. Cincinnati Reds
2. Hank Aaron
3. Larry Dierker
4. 17
5. 55
6. Los Angeles Rams
7. Left handed
8. Minnie Minoso
9. No
10. 5
IN THE NEWS- TARGET UNVEILS CLOTHING FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
From Disability Scoop..
Target is rolling out a collection of sensory-friendly apparel for children and says adaptive clothing for those with disabilities is on the way too.
The new offerings are part of the retailer's house brand Cat & Jack and are available exclusively on the store's website.
Beginning this week, Target is marketing a selection of t-shirts and leggings with flat seams that are free from bothersome tags and embellishments in order to " minimize discomfort when in contact with the skin," the company said. In addition, the retailer's sensory-friendly leggings include extra room in the hips and a higher rise to accommodate older kids who wear diapers.
The items are modeled after existing Cat & Jack styles and range in price from $ 3.40 to $ 7 each.
We heard from our guests- and members of our own team- that there's a need for sensory-friendly clothing for kids that is both fashionable and affordable," Meghan Roman, a spokeswoman for Target said. "With this insight, we set out to introduce a limited selection of sensory-friendly kids' clothing within Cat & Jack that's affordable and offers kids stylish options to feel comfortable and confident to take on their day."
Adaptive styles will be added this fall, Roman said. Those offerings will likely include items with zip-off sleeves, side openings to make dressing easier or openings in the back for those who are sitting or lying down.
Both sensory-friendly and adaptive styles will become a regular part of Target's clothing options for children.
When asked about adult sizes, Roman indicated that the company will "evaluate how we move forward based on guest feedback and the performance of ( the Cat & Jack) pieces."
Target is rolling out a collection of sensory-friendly apparel for children and says adaptive clothing for those with disabilities is on the way too.
The new offerings are part of the retailer's house brand Cat & Jack and are available exclusively on the store's website.
Beginning this week, Target is marketing a selection of t-shirts and leggings with flat seams that are free from bothersome tags and embellishments in order to " minimize discomfort when in contact with the skin," the company said. In addition, the retailer's sensory-friendly leggings include extra room in the hips and a higher rise to accommodate older kids who wear diapers.
The items are modeled after existing Cat & Jack styles and range in price from $ 3.40 to $ 7 each.
We heard from our guests- and members of our own team- that there's a need for sensory-friendly clothing for kids that is both fashionable and affordable," Meghan Roman, a spokeswoman for Target said. "With this insight, we set out to introduce a limited selection of sensory-friendly kids' clothing within Cat & Jack that's affordable and offers kids stylish options to feel comfortable and confident to take on their day."
Adaptive styles will be added this fall, Roman said. Those offerings will likely include items with zip-off sleeves, side openings to make dressing easier or openings in the back for those who are sitting or lying down.
Both sensory-friendly and adaptive styles will become a regular part of Target's clothing options for children.
When asked about adult sizes, Roman indicated that the company will "evaluate how we move forward based on guest feedback and the performance of ( the Cat & Jack) pieces."
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER
EAGLES-
* Again, Coach Doug Pederson worries me. Last night was another case of questionable play-calling. The very first play, RB LaGarrett Blount was stopped on a sweep play.
First, Blount was signed to be a more downhill runner, a goal line bruise, not a fast guy on sweeps. Second, the offensive line sucked again last night ( more on that later).
Stupid play-calling. Pre-season or not. Pederson gets too cute. Is he going to be as cute when the real season starts in Washington?
I'll hold my breath every game, every quarter, every play that Pederson doesn't screw-up.
* The refs were once again a disgrace last night at the Linc. 24 penalties called. Slow, boring game. Can't be that way once the season starts. No wonder TV ratings are down. No wonder the Red Zone ratings on the NFL Network are up.
* Mychal Kendricks played well once again. He is making his case to be a part of a line-backing corps that needs depth. Either that or he is increasing his trade value. He is still too small but if he flies around the ball like he did as a rookie he can still be a valuable piece of the defense.
* So, the defense played well- including an interception by new Eagle CB Darby, but the offensive again looked sluggish. OK, the O-line was without Jason peters. Kelcie continues to get crushed on the inside. The offensive doesn't look cohesive yet. Too many field goals and not enough touchdowns. Same old story.
* Where is Nick Foles? I'm tired of seeing QB Mike McLoin. Foles has a sore shoulder. Why sign him if he can't play? It's crazy to have aback-up quarterback who hasn't seen the field yet. I'm sure Wentz will play into the third quarter next Thursday against Miami. Foles needs to finish that game, plus play the entire final pre-season contest vs. the Jets.
*I was happy the Birds drafted RB Darnell Pumphrey last spring. He is the NCAA all-time leading rusher, a small but quick Darren Sproles-type of guy. But he has disappointed so far. He muffed a punt in the Green Bay game last week. He can't seem to make tacklers miss. RB Corey Clement from Wisconsin,a undrafted free agent, was impressive against the Bills and right now should be considered ahead of Pumphrey on the depth chart.
* Nelson Agholor did OK last night. He needed more passes thrown his way. Two other wide receivers shone brightly as well: Greg ward Jr. and Marcus Johnson. With Jordan Matthews shuffling off to Buffalo, someone needs to step up and take hold of the slot receiver job. It will be an interesting battle the last two weeks of camp.
It's good not to get too excited or too down from an exhibition game. Don't overreact. But also be aware of some potentially concerning issues that may develop as patterns, issues that should be addressed now, such as Pederson's play-calling.
PHILLIES-
* The Phils are now losing to equally bad teams. San Diego and San Francisco area combined 103-141. the team is a season-low 33 games below .500. They are a dismal 19-45 on the road. Can't get much worse.
* John Middleton, are you out there? you need to clean house the day after the season ends. If Pete Mackanin goes- which he will 9 how can you justify bringing back a manager that loses well over 100 games)- so much Matt Klentak. The entire coaching staff needs to be fired as well. The organization needs a fresh start with coaches who will grow with the younger players. Sadly, Larry Bowa must be shown the door too.
No one really cares about the Phillies now that football season is almost here. It's been a spring and summer of embarrassment. We knew the club would be bad but not this bad, and the front office hasn't helped matters with terrible free agent signings, mediocre trades and stupid decisions regarding promoting young prospects.
* My final Phillies game is next Saturday night against the world champion Cubs. My girlfriend's very first Phillies game. It will be nice to take in the ballpark- Bull's Bar-B-Que, the Majestic Clubhouse store, etc...Hopefully the game itself isn't a form of cruel and inhuman punishment
.
* Tommy Joseph is showing why I have always thought of him as an average player ( and why Columist Marcus Hayes is a moron and a shill for Matt Kletak and the Phillies). He has grounded into 19 double plays this year. Average at best defensive player. Below-average hitter. OK power guy. Doesn't take enough walks or get on base. No wonder no one wanted him at the trade deadline.
Rhys Hoskins needs to play first base next year. Period. Joseph needs to be packaged in the off-season, ideally to an American League club where he could be a DH.
Speaking of changing positions, with Hoskins suddenly moving to left field ( which I don't agree with), why not try Scott Kingery at third base? He won't be called up Philadelphia until spring training. See if he can handle the position now, in case you make Mycha;l Franco trade bait during the winter. Keep Cesar Hernandez. An infield of Kingery, Galvis/Crawford, Hernandez and Hoskins is young, speedy and has power, and still good defensively.
* Why isn't young catcher Jorge Alfaro playing more? Cameron Rupp isn't the future. He is what he is- a below-average defensive catcher who has limited offensive skills. Rupp became the everyday catcher basically because no one else could fill in for the aging Carlos Ruiz.
Alfaro hit a laser-like home run to center field a few nights ago in San Diego. he hasn't played since.
Like this entire loser organization, there doesn't see to be a plan.
Go Eagles.
* Finally, the LA Dodgers are amazing. Over games games above .500. Challenging for the all-time win total in a season ( 116). All this without ace pitcher Clayton Kershaw for a good chunk of the summer.
Shows what wise drafting and player development can do. The Dodgers have always had one of the best farm systems in the majors.
Los Angeles was my pick to win the World Series before the season began. I like their chances even more. The Cubs and Nationals will give them a tough time in the playoffs. But look for a Dodger-Red Sox series, which would be great for baseball fans everywhere.
* Again, Coach Doug Pederson worries me. Last night was another case of questionable play-calling. The very first play, RB LaGarrett Blount was stopped on a sweep play.
First, Blount was signed to be a more downhill runner, a goal line bruise, not a fast guy on sweeps. Second, the offensive line sucked again last night ( more on that later).
Stupid play-calling. Pre-season or not. Pederson gets too cute. Is he going to be as cute when the real season starts in Washington?
I'll hold my breath every game, every quarter, every play that Pederson doesn't screw-up.
* The refs were once again a disgrace last night at the Linc. 24 penalties called. Slow, boring game. Can't be that way once the season starts. No wonder TV ratings are down. No wonder the Red Zone ratings on the NFL Network are up.
* Mychal Kendricks played well once again. He is making his case to be a part of a line-backing corps that needs depth. Either that or he is increasing his trade value. He is still too small but if he flies around the ball like he did as a rookie he can still be a valuable piece of the defense.
* So, the defense played well- including an interception by new Eagle CB Darby, but the offensive again looked sluggish. OK, the O-line was without Jason peters. Kelcie continues to get crushed on the inside. The offensive doesn't look cohesive yet. Too many field goals and not enough touchdowns. Same old story.
* Where is Nick Foles? I'm tired of seeing QB Mike McLoin. Foles has a sore shoulder. Why sign him if he can't play? It's crazy to have aback-up quarterback who hasn't seen the field yet. I'm sure Wentz will play into the third quarter next Thursday against Miami. Foles needs to finish that game, plus play the entire final pre-season contest vs. the Jets.
*I was happy the Birds drafted RB Darnell Pumphrey last spring. He is the NCAA all-time leading rusher, a small but quick Darren Sproles-type of guy. But he has disappointed so far. He muffed a punt in the Green Bay game last week. He can't seem to make tacklers miss. RB Corey Clement from Wisconsin,a undrafted free agent, was impressive against the Bills and right now should be considered ahead of Pumphrey on the depth chart.
* Nelson Agholor did OK last night. He needed more passes thrown his way. Two other wide receivers shone brightly as well: Greg ward Jr. and Marcus Johnson. With Jordan Matthews shuffling off to Buffalo, someone needs to step up and take hold of the slot receiver job. It will be an interesting battle the last two weeks of camp.
It's good not to get too excited or too down from an exhibition game. Don't overreact. But also be aware of some potentially concerning issues that may develop as patterns, issues that should be addressed now, such as Pederson's play-calling.
PHILLIES-
* The Phils are now losing to equally bad teams. San Diego and San Francisco area combined 103-141. the team is a season-low 33 games below .500. They are a dismal 19-45 on the road. Can't get much worse.
* John Middleton, are you out there? you need to clean house the day after the season ends. If Pete Mackanin goes- which he will 9 how can you justify bringing back a manager that loses well over 100 games)- so much Matt Klentak. The entire coaching staff needs to be fired as well. The organization needs a fresh start with coaches who will grow with the younger players. Sadly, Larry Bowa must be shown the door too.
No one really cares about the Phillies now that football season is almost here. It's been a spring and summer of embarrassment. We knew the club would be bad but not this bad, and the front office hasn't helped matters with terrible free agent signings, mediocre trades and stupid decisions regarding promoting young prospects.
* My final Phillies game is next Saturday night against the world champion Cubs. My girlfriend's very first Phillies game. It will be nice to take in the ballpark- Bull's Bar-B-Que, the Majestic Clubhouse store, etc...Hopefully the game itself isn't a form of cruel and inhuman punishment
.
* Tommy Joseph is showing why I have always thought of him as an average player ( and why Columist Marcus Hayes is a moron and a shill for Matt Kletak and the Phillies). He has grounded into 19 double plays this year. Average at best defensive player. Below-average hitter. OK power guy. Doesn't take enough walks or get on base. No wonder no one wanted him at the trade deadline.
Rhys Hoskins needs to play first base next year. Period. Joseph needs to be packaged in the off-season, ideally to an American League club where he could be a DH.
Speaking of changing positions, with Hoskins suddenly moving to left field ( which I don't agree with), why not try Scott Kingery at third base? He won't be called up Philadelphia until spring training. See if he can handle the position now, in case you make Mycha;l Franco trade bait during the winter. Keep Cesar Hernandez. An infield of Kingery, Galvis/Crawford, Hernandez and Hoskins is young, speedy and has power, and still good defensively.
* Why isn't young catcher Jorge Alfaro playing more? Cameron Rupp isn't the future. He is what he is- a below-average defensive catcher who has limited offensive skills. Rupp became the everyday catcher basically because no one else could fill in for the aging Carlos Ruiz.
Alfaro hit a laser-like home run to center field a few nights ago in San Diego. he hasn't played since.
Like this entire loser organization, there doesn't see to be a plan.
Go Eagles.
* Finally, the LA Dodgers are amazing. Over games games above .500. Challenging for the all-time win total in a season ( 116). All this without ace pitcher Clayton Kershaw for a good chunk of the summer.
Shows what wise drafting and player development can do. The Dodgers have always had one of the best farm systems in the majors.
Los Angeles was my pick to win the World Series before the season began. I like their chances even more. The Cubs and Nationals will give them a tough time in the playoffs. But look for a Dodger-Red Sox series, which would be great for baseball fans everywhere.
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