* It finally feels like Autumn- cool, crisp nights, chilly mornings, warm, sun-soaked days with crystal-blue skies. It's about time, especially after another summer of heat and humidity. My Fall thoughts..
-There are a lot of things I love about Autumn. But one thing I hate is seeing the sunset earlier day-by-day. I don't look forward to those dark late afternoons soon, when the sun sets around 5:00. And it doesn't get light now until after 6:30 in the morning. Kids going to the bus stop in twilight, adults leaving for work in the dark, warming up the car on frosty mornings.
In early November Daylight Savings Time will end and the world will get even gloomier. Not good. But after December 21 we gain time and daylight every day until summer.
- Football. Watching football makes weekends and especially Sundays an event to look forward to each week. When the Eagles played the Giants last Sunday in 92 degree heat and humidity it just wasn't football weather. The Birds were there at the Linc for their home opener, the tail-gating, the crazy eagle fans, the big division-rivalry game. But it just didn't feel like football.
I love pro football, and football now means the fall and helps us get thru the letdown of summer leaving. The high school game son Friday nights, the football office pools, Fantasy Football, the familiar faces of Terry Bradshaw and Howie Long, the excitement of Sunday night football and the anticipation week-to-week of the game and all the events and hype leading up to the game.
Winning also makes life and the fall better. We breeze thru October and suddenly we are at the Thanksgiving games, full of tradition after our turkey. Then it's the December Christmas stretch of games leading up to the playoffs.
It's all fun and makes Autumn better.
- Autumn also means the holidays are just around the corner. Halloween doesn't mean much to me. I know it's an even bigger deal now. Not only are kids trick-and-treating like always, but adults get into it too, with costume parties galore. Look at all the Halloween stores around, specifically devoted to costumes and decorations.
Thanksgiving is probably my favorite fall holiday. It's family, football and food. No pressure of giving gifts. It's parades and prayers and Black Friday. It's only the start of the holiday season, the beginning of a month of holiday parties, shopping and fun.
Christmas is cool- the music, the lights,and yes, the gifts and surprises. We must never forget what Christmas is all about- Jesus.
Christmas is snow ( which we hardly ever get around December 25th), cards, packages at your door, bundling up in jackets and scarves, icy nights and clear-blue days.
More on the holidays around the holidays. They give you something to look forward to at the end of the year. Most are in Autumn, even though they are referred to as "The Christmas holidays." Another reason to love fall.
- Everything pumpkin in fall. Pumpkin smoothies at Wawa is my favorite. So is pumpkin pie. Each year we see more and more pumpkin scents and flavors.
Love the fall flowers too, especially the mums. I miss my summer flowers but mums are still colorful in white, yellow, orange and shades of red. The leaves are beautiful. A pain to rake when they fall, but this year the foliage should be even more spectacular with all the rain we had last spring.
Yes, spring is the time when everything is green and alive again after a brown, dark, gloomy winter. But fall can be gorgeous as well. it all depends how you look at it. it's not the end, it's continuing the beauty of life, another page turned.
- Finally, the fall season is the start of new TV shows and the big movies. With the weather turning colder people hunker down inside their warm homes and catch the new shows on the tube. Always exciting. I used to love the fall preview edition of TV Guide when I was growing up. Had the chart of new and old shows, when they were on, and a capsule description of each program.
Even more so now, I look forward to the fall movies. After a summer of blockbusters, animated films for kids, action superhero stuff for teens and popcorn, silly , mindless flicks on date night, it's time for the really good films to shine.
Films worthy of Oscar- consideration come out, from Labor Day til Christmas. More serious dramas abound, aside form the horror flicks around Halloween and the usual holiday fare near Christmas.
TV and movies- another reason to love fall.
* Johnny Mathis just released a new album on Friday- Johnny Mathis Sings the Great, New American Songbook.
I was never a big Mathis fan, but I knew he was a "singer's singer",He's a legend and an icon, right up there with Tony Bennett, singers we need to appreciate before they are gone.
Johnny's new album is very contemporary, produced by "Babyface" and Clive Davis ( the legendary Arista records producer who capitulated Barry Manilow and Whitney Houston to fame.). It's a great collection of classic, modern songs.
Tunes like Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah", Adele's "Hello", "Happy", "Just The Way You Are" ( the Bruno Mars one, not Billy Joel), Whitney Houston's "Run To You" and more.
it's a very retrospective collection, classic songs of today,as Mathis reflects upon his life.
"Remember When", the Alan Jackson misty-eyed ballad, is my favorite. "I Believe I Can Fly" also stands out. There isn't a clunker in the batch.
Most of all, for a guy about to turn 82-years-old, Johnny's voice is clear and strong I give him credit for doing something different and out-of-the -box. He could've played it safe and did an album full of old stuff, and his fans wouldn't eaten it up. But Mathis, along with Babyface and Davis, took a chance and it works. It brings Johnny to today and makes him relevant again.
I've never seen Johnny in concert before, but because of this album, I want to see him next spring in Lancaster. That's another thing that this album will do- it will remind fans how great Mathis is, and encourage both die-hard and casual fans to take another listen to his older stuff.
I give his new album a solid 3 1/2 stars out of four. Watch him get nominated for a Grammy.
* O.J. Simpson is scheduled to be released from prison on Monday. Everyone knows O.J.'s story, so I won't rehash the gory details.
It seems he wants to relocate back to Florida, where he has a home. But the authorities there seem to be stalling the paperwork. They don't want him there.
I get it. I think O.J. did commit the infamous murders long ago. He deserves to burn in hell for eternity. I'm into the O.J. saga big time.
But I also believe that O.J. served his time, at least for his latest transgressions. The law is the law, and he did his time. So, allow him to be released, live wherever he wants, and either live out the rest of life or screw up again.
Monday will be a media circus, like anything O.J. There will be cameras and helicopters following his every move. I'm sure the media will follow him everywhere, no matter where he resides or travels to. Talk show hosts will vie to get interviews. O.J. will be big again.
Is it right? No. And in this age of social media and Twitter, O.J. will be hounded constantly. But to me, he did his time. Let him go and see what happens. Just don't allow him to exploit the media or bask in the glory of freedom. O.J> should just go away and not savor all the attention.
Now it's up to the media to let him either sink or swim. Allow him to fade away and don't give him the opportunity to shine anymore.
Saturday, September 30, 2017
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER-EAGLES, PHILLIES, SIXERS
Random weekend Philly sports thoughts...
* I will miss manager Pete Mackanin, but let's keep things in perspective. Pete wasn't exactly Sparky Anderson with some of his decisions. He filled in when Ryne Sandberg walked away. To his credit, Pete kept it together despite the turmoil and garbage the front office gave him to work with.
I think Pete should've been given a chance to finally manage good players.But it's obvious that GM Matt Klentak wants his own guy in charge. A younger, more analytical version of himself in the skipper's role.
I didn't agree with the way Pete handled his bullpen or his way of disciplining guys who didn't hustle, players like Herrera and Franco. His coaching staff also let him down. Hopefully Samuel, Stairs, McClure and Morandini do not return as well.
I do agree that this organization needs a fresh, more positive approach now that they are ready to be competitive. I fully expect Klentak to dive into free agency and improve the pitching staff thru trades. They have the cash, young players and better farm system to make moves.
Will I miss Mackanin's honesty? Yes. It will depend who replaces Pete. Hopefully a manager who thinks out of the box, not a cookie-cutter guy who always does things by the book. So, I'm willing to give MacPhail and Klentak a shot. The off-season will be interesting, that's for sure.
************************************************************************
* Running the ball was a welcome change for the Eagles last week against the Giants. It seemed to open up the pass and control the clock. But I'm not gung ho about the team needing to have a balanced attack.
Isn't the goal to score and move the ball the best way possible?
So, if throwing the ball picks up first downs and scores touchdowns, do it. Sure, you need to run the ball to keep defenses honest and not get Carson Wentz killed.
To me, don't be cookie-cutter and throw-or run- the ball automatically. Do whatever makes sense week to week. For instance, the Chargers are weak against the run. So on Sunday, it would make sense to focus again on the rushing game, especially to keep their aggressive tackles at bay.
************************************************************************
OK, I didn't agree with Doug Pederson's 4th-and-8 goofy play-call against the Giants. But it didn't cost the Birds the game. And it was in the second quarter, not near the end of the game.
It scares me that Pederson could make such a stupid call, relying on an analytics guy in the booth to give him advice. He's learning on the job and hopefully he learns from his mistakes and doesn't do it again.But I get it- you hold your breath waiting for the next shoe to fall.
If the Eagles would've lost Pederson would've been buried. But they didn't. And the call didn't cost the game . The defense stepped up and the Giants' coach may even be worse than Pederson.
*********************************************************************
You gotta sign Joel Embiid to a contract extension. OK, he has only played 31 games in three seasons. Your'e taking a chance on his health. But you took a chance when you drafted the guy. When he plays, he's great.
You're committed to him now. You can't let him walk and become a superstar elsewhere. You need to ride Enbiid out and see what happens. He will either be an injury-riddled bust or one the game's brightest stars, the leader of a young, talented Sixers squad that will contend for years.
Embiid finally practiced 5-on- 5 yesterday afternoon. Jojo will be OK. He is fun to watch with a captivating personality. Sign him and let him play.
* I will miss manager Pete Mackanin, but let's keep things in perspective. Pete wasn't exactly Sparky Anderson with some of his decisions. He filled in when Ryne Sandberg walked away. To his credit, Pete kept it together despite the turmoil and garbage the front office gave him to work with.
I think Pete should've been given a chance to finally manage good players.But it's obvious that GM Matt Klentak wants his own guy in charge. A younger, more analytical version of himself in the skipper's role.
I didn't agree with the way Pete handled his bullpen or his way of disciplining guys who didn't hustle, players like Herrera and Franco. His coaching staff also let him down. Hopefully Samuel, Stairs, McClure and Morandini do not return as well.
I do agree that this organization needs a fresh, more positive approach now that they are ready to be competitive. I fully expect Klentak to dive into free agency and improve the pitching staff thru trades. They have the cash, young players and better farm system to make moves.
Will I miss Mackanin's honesty? Yes. It will depend who replaces Pete. Hopefully a manager who thinks out of the box, not a cookie-cutter guy who always does things by the book. So, I'm willing to give MacPhail and Klentak a shot. The off-season will be interesting, that's for sure.
************************************************************************
* Running the ball was a welcome change for the Eagles last week against the Giants. It seemed to open up the pass and control the clock. But I'm not gung ho about the team needing to have a balanced attack.
Isn't the goal to score and move the ball the best way possible?
So, if throwing the ball picks up first downs and scores touchdowns, do it. Sure, you need to run the ball to keep defenses honest and not get Carson Wentz killed.
To me, don't be cookie-cutter and throw-or run- the ball automatically. Do whatever makes sense week to week. For instance, the Chargers are weak against the run. So on Sunday, it would make sense to focus again on the rushing game, especially to keep their aggressive tackles at bay.
************************************************************************
OK, I didn't agree with Doug Pederson's 4th-and-8 goofy play-call against the Giants. But it didn't cost the Birds the game. And it was in the second quarter, not near the end of the game.
It scares me that Pederson could make such a stupid call, relying on an analytics guy in the booth to give him advice. He's learning on the job and hopefully he learns from his mistakes and doesn't do it again.But I get it- you hold your breath waiting for the next shoe to fall.
If the Eagles would've lost Pederson would've been buried. But they didn't. And the call didn't cost the game . The defense stepped up and the Giants' coach may even be worse than Pederson.
*********************************************************************
You gotta sign Joel Embiid to a contract extension. OK, he has only played 31 games in three seasons. Your'e taking a chance on his health. But you took a chance when you drafted the guy. When he plays, he's great.
You're committed to him now. You can't let him walk and become a superstar elsewhere. You need to ride Enbiid out and see what happens. He will either be an injury-riddled bust or one the game's brightest stars, the leader of a young, talented Sixers squad that will contend for years.
Embiid finally practiced 5-on- 5 yesterday afternoon. Jojo will be OK. He is fun to watch with a captivating personality. Sign him and let him play.
Friday, September 29, 2017
PHILLIES PHODD3ER-PHILS REPLACE MACKANIN AS MANAGER
I was surprised to hear tthis afternoon the Phillies manager Pete Mackanin won't be back as skipper in 2018. Instead he will join GM Matt Klentak as an assistant.
I'm not sure how I feel. Pete did the best with what he had. Klentak needs to take most of the blame for this failed season, with his botched trades and free agent signings.
I liked Pete's honesty. I didn't always agree with his moves, the way he handled his bullpen at times, how he choose not to discipline players who didn't always hustle ( Herrera and Franco). But Pete seemed to be a good communicator and the players liked him- maybe too much so?
How I'll feel about this move will hinge on who gets the new manager's nod. Will it be another vet,a father figure to the players, a stabilizing influence? Or will it be a younger guy, a more analytical manager, someone to co-exist with Klentak?
I think it will be the latter. If the front office wanted a veteran guy, why not keep Pete?
There had to be a reason more than "we need a fresh approach", as Pete had another year left on his contract.
I always thought if Mackanin got fired Lehigh Valley skipper Dusty Warthan would be hired. He's young (44) and farm-hand guy, and he managed most of the young core of players at Reading and Lehigh Valley.Writer Jim Salsbury says to watch ex-slugger Mark McGuire as a potential candidate for the position. McGuire has owned up to his use of drugs during his home run hitting days, and seems respected as a hitting coach in the league. He certainly could tutor a Rhys Hoskins.
Andy MacPhail loves older managers such as Buck Showalter or Ron Gardenhire. Who wins?
I agree this entire franchise needs a more positive attitude and approach. Instead of hoping to finish .500, think playoffs and beyond.
Much will depend on Klentak's moves this off-season. The team needs pitching, and Klentak said he intends to upgrade the staff, both starters and relievers, thru trades and free agency. Owner John Middleton needs to spend some of the money he's been hoarding for years.I don't really trust Klentak to make the moves necessary to improve the team. This is the same talent evaluator who failed to bring up the kids early in the spring and who had faith in washed-up vets like Michael Saunders and Clay Bucholtz
Klentak inherited Mackanin. Klentak wants his own guy. Now he has the chance to sink or swim His job may be the next one on the line.
Hopefully this is a sign that the organization is transitioning from rebuilding mode to competitive, contending status. I'm willing to give Klentak a shot. I don't trust him, but let's see what happens.
It's also a clear sign the coaches will be gone as well. The new guy will want to bring in his own staff.
Klentak promises to keep Philles president Andy MacPhail "In the loop." He better do more than that. I don't trust Klentak and he needs to lean on the experience of MacPhail.
I'm not sure how I feel. Pete did the best with what he had. Klentak needs to take most of the blame for this failed season, with his botched trades and free agent signings.
I liked Pete's honesty. I didn't always agree with his moves, the way he handled his bullpen at times, how he choose not to discipline players who didn't always hustle ( Herrera and Franco). But Pete seemed to be a good communicator and the players liked him- maybe too much so?
How I'll feel about this move will hinge on who gets the new manager's nod. Will it be another vet,a father figure to the players, a stabilizing influence? Or will it be a younger guy, a more analytical manager, someone to co-exist with Klentak?
I think it will be the latter. If the front office wanted a veteran guy, why not keep Pete?
There had to be a reason more than "we need a fresh approach", as Pete had another year left on his contract.
I always thought if Mackanin got fired Lehigh Valley skipper Dusty Warthan would be hired. He's young (44) and farm-hand guy, and he managed most of the young core of players at Reading and Lehigh Valley.Writer Jim Salsbury says to watch ex-slugger Mark McGuire as a potential candidate for the position. McGuire has owned up to his use of drugs during his home run hitting days, and seems respected as a hitting coach in the league. He certainly could tutor a Rhys Hoskins.
Andy MacPhail loves older managers such as Buck Showalter or Ron Gardenhire. Who wins?
I agree this entire franchise needs a more positive attitude and approach. Instead of hoping to finish .500, think playoffs and beyond.
Much will depend on Klentak's moves this off-season. The team needs pitching, and Klentak said he intends to upgrade the staff, both starters and relievers, thru trades and free agency. Owner John Middleton needs to spend some of the money he's been hoarding for years.I don't really trust Klentak to make the moves necessary to improve the team. This is the same talent evaluator who failed to bring up the kids early in the spring and who had faith in washed-up vets like Michael Saunders and Clay Bucholtz
Klentak inherited Mackanin. Klentak wants his own guy. Now he has the chance to sink or swim His job may be the next one on the line.
Hopefully this is a sign that the organization is transitioning from rebuilding mode to competitive, contending status. I'm willing to give Klentak a shot. I don't trust him, but let's see what happens.
It's also a clear sign the coaches will be gone as well. The new guy will want to bring in his own staff.
Klentak promises to keep Philles president Andy MacPhail "In the loop." He better do more than that. I don't trust Klentak and he needs to lean on the experience of MacPhail.
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ- 50/50
Today's quiz is a 50/50 shot..
1. What color is the tablecloth in da Vinci's Last Supper- Blue or white?
2. Which came first- Newsweek or Time?
3. Who was born first- Roy Rogers or Dale Evans?
4. What poisonous snake bites the most North Americans- Cooper heads or rattlesnakes?
5. Which Alaska city is farthest north- Anchorage or Fairbanks?
6. What was the first country other than the U,S, to win the Little League World Series in 1957- Mexico or Japan?
7. What U.S. state produces the most toothpicks- Maine or Oregon?
8. What color complements red on Spain's flag- Black or yellow?
9. What year did Sesame Street begin on TV- 1969 or 1975?
10. What was President Grover Cleveland the first to do to a woman while in office- marry her or divorce her?
ANSWERS-
1. White
2. Time
3. Dale Evans
4. Copperheads
5. Fairbanks
6. Mexico
7. Maine
8. Yellow
9. 1969
10. Marry her
1. What color is the tablecloth in da Vinci's Last Supper- Blue or white?
2. Which came first- Newsweek or Time?
3. Who was born first- Roy Rogers or Dale Evans?
4. What poisonous snake bites the most North Americans- Cooper heads or rattlesnakes?
5. Which Alaska city is farthest north- Anchorage or Fairbanks?
6. What was the first country other than the U,S, to win the Little League World Series in 1957- Mexico or Japan?
7. What U.S. state produces the most toothpicks- Maine or Oregon?
8. What color complements red on Spain's flag- Black or yellow?
9. What year did Sesame Street begin on TV- 1969 or 1975?
10. What was President Grover Cleveland the first to do to a woman while in office- marry her or divorce her?
ANSWERS-
1. White
2. Time
3. Dale Evans
4. Copperheads
5. Fairbanks
6. Mexico
7. Maine
8. Yellow
9. 1969
10. Marry her
PHILLIES PHODDER-100 WIN SEASONS
* If the Houston Astros win one of their remaining three games this weekend against Boston, it will mark the first time since 2003 that major league baseball has three teams win at least 100 games in a season.
The Dodgers and Indians already have 100 victories. No season has ever produced four 100-win teams. Washington, if they sweep their last three games this weekend, would come close, finishing with 99 wins.
Three teams winning 100 games in the same season has only happened five times: 1942, 1977, 1998, 2002 and 2003.
There has never been three teams in the same league to win 100 games in the same season.
Eight teams have won 100 games and have failed to reach the playoffs, They are:
1909- Chicago Cubs
1915- Detroit Tigers
1942- Brooklyn Dodgers
1954- New York Yankees
1061- Detroit Tigers
1962- Los Angeles Dodgers
1980- Baltimore Orioles
1993- San Francisco Giants
The Phillies have won 100 games three times- 1976, 1977 and 2001. In each of those seasons they failed to win a playoff series or reach the World Series.
Note: The Giants have lost 97 games so far in 2017. They are the only team this year that has a chance to lose 100 games in 2017.
The Twins lost 100 games last season, yet clinched a wild card spot this year. They are the first team in baseball history to do so- lose 100 games one year and make the playoffs the next.
* The fate of manager Pete Mackanin may be known as early as Saturday, when the manager and the front office meets. As stated, I think Pete will be back. He is under contract for another year and the team played better after the all-star break.
* My predictions for the baseball playoffs will be on the blog Monday. The NL wild card race is still up for grabs, with Milwaukee still barely alive.
Overall best record for home field advantage in the playoffs may differ. The Dodgers have 102 wins, the Indians 100 and the Astros 99. LA has clinched home field in the National League.
Here are the likely teams:
NL Wild Card- Colorado at Arizona
NL Division Series- Chicago Cubs at Washington. Wild Card Winner at Los Angeles Dodgers
AL Wild Card- Minnesota at New York Yankees.
AL Division Series- Boston at Houston. Wild Card Winner at Cleveland
The Dodgers and Indians already have 100 victories. No season has ever produced four 100-win teams. Washington, if they sweep their last three games this weekend, would come close, finishing with 99 wins.
Three teams winning 100 games in the same season has only happened five times: 1942, 1977, 1998, 2002 and 2003.
There has never been three teams in the same league to win 100 games in the same season.
Eight teams have won 100 games and have failed to reach the playoffs, They are:
1909- Chicago Cubs
1915- Detroit Tigers
1942- Brooklyn Dodgers
1954- New York Yankees
1061- Detroit Tigers
1962- Los Angeles Dodgers
1980- Baltimore Orioles
1993- San Francisco Giants
The Phillies have won 100 games three times- 1976, 1977 and 2001. In each of those seasons they failed to win a playoff series or reach the World Series.
Note: The Giants have lost 97 games so far in 2017. They are the only team this year that has a chance to lose 100 games in 2017.
The Twins lost 100 games last season, yet clinched a wild card spot this year. They are the first team in baseball history to do so- lose 100 games one year and make the playoffs the next.
* The fate of manager Pete Mackanin may be known as early as Saturday, when the manager and the front office meets. As stated, I think Pete will be back. He is under contract for another year and the team played better after the all-star break.
* My predictions for the baseball playoffs will be on the blog Monday. The NL wild card race is still up for grabs, with Milwaukee still barely alive.
Overall best record for home field advantage in the playoffs may differ. The Dodgers have 102 wins, the Indians 100 and the Astros 99. LA has clinched home field in the National League.
Here are the likely teams:
NL Wild Card- Colorado at Arizona
NL Division Series- Chicago Cubs at Washington. Wild Card Winner at Los Angeles Dodgers
AL Wild Card- Minnesota at New York Yankees.
AL Division Series- Boston at Houston. Wild Card Winner at Cleveland
IN THE NEWS- WALMART SUED FOR DENYING REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS.
From Disability Scoop..
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is accusing Walmart of discrimination for failing to accommodate a longtime store employee with a developmental disability.
The federal agency sued this week alleging that the retail giant violated the Americans with Disabilities Act in the case of Paul Reina who worked as a cart pusher at a Beloit, Wis. location.
Reina, who has a developmental disability and is deaf and visually impaired, had worked at the store for 16 years when a new manager took over. Within a month, Reina was suspended and told to resubmit medical paperwork in order to retain his reasonable accommodations- including the assistance of a job coach- according to the suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin.
Once Reina and his legal guardian provided documentation requesting the continued accommodations, the Walmart store stopped communicating and Reina was ultimately unable to return to work, the EEOC said.
The lawsuit is seeking to recoup lost earnings as well as compensatory and punitive damages for Reina. In addition, the EEOC wants a permanent injunction to prevent Walmart from failing to provide reasonable accommodations in future cases.
The EEOC said it tried unsuccessfully to resolve the matter with Walmart before filing suit.
"It is the employer's responsibility to make sure that all managers are trained on the laws against disability discrimination. Effectively denying a request or a reasonable accommodation to someone with a 16-year track record of successful work is illegal discrimination," said Julianne Bowman, district director of the EEOC's Chicago District.
Walmart representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit.
In na separate matter, the EEOC sued Walmart earlier this year for firing a 15-year employee with Down syndrome at another Wisconsin store.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is accusing Walmart of discrimination for failing to accommodate a longtime store employee with a developmental disability.
The federal agency sued this week alleging that the retail giant violated the Americans with Disabilities Act in the case of Paul Reina who worked as a cart pusher at a Beloit, Wis. location.
Reina, who has a developmental disability and is deaf and visually impaired, had worked at the store for 16 years when a new manager took over. Within a month, Reina was suspended and told to resubmit medical paperwork in order to retain his reasonable accommodations- including the assistance of a job coach- according to the suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin.
Once Reina and his legal guardian provided documentation requesting the continued accommodations, the Walmart store stopped communicating and Reina was ultimately unable to return to work, the EEOC said.
The lawsuit is seeking to recoup lost earnings as well as compensatory and punitive damages for Reina. In addition, the EEOC wants a permanent injunction to prevent Walmart from failing to provide reasonable accommodations in future cases.
The EEOC said it tried unsuccessfully to resolve the matter with Walmart before filing suit.
"It is the employer's responsibility to make sure that all managers are trained on the laws against disability discrimination. Effectively denying a request or a reasonable accommodation to someone with a 16-year track record of successful work is illegal discrimination," said Julianne Bowman, district director of the EEOC's Chicago District.
Walmart representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit.
In na separate matter, the EEOC sued Walmart earlier this year for firing a 15-year employee with Down syndrome at another Wisconsin store.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- THE CHARGERS
The Eagles play the Chargers this Sunday. Here are some memories of the San Diego Chargers ( now LA):
* The Chargers are known for QB Dan Fouts, an incredible passer who never went to a Super Bowl. But when I was a kid in the 60s the Chargers' quarterback was a guy named John Hadl.
In the 60s and early 70s, the AFC West was wild with bombers such as Len Dawson of the Chiefs and Daryl Lamonica of the Raiders. Hadl was right there with them. He had an all-Pro, Hall of Fame wide receiver named Lance (Bambi) Alworth. Lance was a speedy, elusive wideout, number 19.Ron Mix was another great star of the early Chargers, a rugged tackle.
* The "Air Coryell" days with Fouts and tight end Kellen Winslow were fun games The 1981 playoff game vs. the Dolphins is historic. A 41-439 shootout in Miami, it set offensive records which still stand.
*Other Chargers who come to mind are LaDainian Tomlinson, Charlie Joiner and Junior Seau., Hall of Famers all. Despite having such great players, the Chargers franchise has only appeared in one Super Bowl, SB XXIX. San Diego lost to the San Francisco 49'ers, 49-26.
* Nicknamed "The Bolts", the Chargers were also famous for their iconic powder blue uniforms. The Chargers wear the powder blues twice a year. It remains one of the best selling jerseys each year in the NFL..
* Phillip Rivers has been a fine quarterback for the Chargers, but look at the QBs who could've been Hall of Fame Chargers: Drew Brees was drafted by San Diego and played well for the Chargers until he suffered a dislocated shoulder and left as a free agent, signing with New Orleans and the res tis history. Eli Manning warned the Chargers not to draft him. Manning wanted to play in New York, so the Chargers did draft Manning but then traded him to the Giants.
*The Chargers and Eagles have played 11 times over the year, with the Chargers leading the series, 7-4. They last played in 2013 at the Linc, with the Chargers winning 33-30.
* The Chargers are known for QB Dan Fouts, an incredible passer who never went to a Super Bowl. But when I was a kid in the 60s the Chargers' quarterback was a guy named John Hadl.
In the 60s and early 70s, the AFC West was wild with bombers such as Len Dawson of the Chiefs and Daryl Lamonica of the Raiders. Hadl was right there with them. He had an all-Pro, Hall of Fame wide receiver named Lance (Bambi) Alworth. Lance was a speedy, elusive wideout, number 19.Ron Mix was another great star of the early Chargers, a rugged tackle.
* The "Air Coryell" days with Fouts and tight end Kellen Winslow were fun games The 1981 playoff game vs. the Dolphins is historic. A 41-439 shootout in Miami, it set offensive records which still stand.
*Other Chargers who come to mind are LaDainian Tomlinson, Charlie Joiner and Junior Seau., Hall of Famers all. Despite having such great players, the Chargers franchise has only appeared in one Super Bowl, SB XXIX. San Diego lost to the San Francisco 49'ers, 49-26.
* Nicknamed "The Bolts", the Chargers were also famous for their iconic powder blue uniforms. The Chargers wear the powder blues twice a year. It remains one of the best selling jerseys each year in the NFL..
* Phillip Rivers has been a fine quarterback for the Chargers, but look at the QBs who could've been Hall of Fame Chargers: Drew Brees was drafted by San Diego and played well for the Chargers until he suffered a dislocated shoulder and left as a free agent, signing with New Orleans and the res tis history. Eli Manning warned the Chargers not to draft him. Manning wanted to play in New York, so the Chargers did draft Manning but then traded him to the Giants.
*The Chargers and Eagles have played 11 times over the year, with the Chargers leading the series, 7-4. They last played in 2013 at the Linc, with the Chargers winning 33-30.
Thursday, September 28, 2017
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ- SCIENCE & NATURE
Today's quiz is all about SCIENCE & NATURE
1. What number is nearest "GHI" on a telephone?
2. What color is an Artic fox in winter?
3. Who was the first to suggest that clocks be moved forward or backward to extend daylight hours?
4. What two human features perspire a half pint of fluid daily?
5. Which contains more protein- a pound of steak or a pound of peanuts?
6. Which is tobacco- a depressant or a stimulant?
7. How many sides does a banana have?
8. Do cactuses have leaves?
9. Is jade a gemstone?
10. Can porcupines climb trees?
ANSWERS-
1. 4
2. White
3. Benjamin Franklin
4. The feet
5. A pound of peanuts
6. A stimulant
7. 5
8. No
9. Yes
10. Yes
1. What number is nearest "GHI" on a telephone?
2. What color is an Artic fox in winter?
3. Who was the first to suggest that clocks be moved forward or backward to extend daylight hours?
4. What two human features perspire a half pint of fluid daily?
5. Which contains more protein- a pound of steak or a pound of peanuts?
6. Which is tobacco- a depressant or a stimulant?
7. How many sides does a banana have?
8. Do cactuses have leaves?
9. Is jade a gemstone?
10. Can porcupines climb trees?
ANSWERS-
1. 4
2. White
3. Benjamin Franklin
4. The feet
5. A pound of peanuts
6. A stimulant
7. 5
8. No
9. Yes
10. Yes
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES-CHARGERS
The Eagles fly across the country to take on the winlees Los Angeles Chargers this Sunday. Here are my thoughts and prediction..
The Birds come off a big emotional win over division rival New York Giants. So you would think there would be a natural letdown. The Chargers are at home, in their small, 27,000 soccer stadium. Trap game? Yes, all the ingredients are there for an upset loss.
How the Eagles will win? Continue to run the ball. The LA defense is near the bottom of the league in run defense. Limit turnovers, get a pass rush against Charger QB Phillip Rivers, ho is prone to throwing interceptions. Get the lead early, force Rivers to throw. Los Angeles really doesn't give a damn about pro football so half of the stadium will be Eagles fans.
How can the Chargers win? Rivers takes advantage of the Philly secondary. LA gets the lead and makes Wenyz throw the ball 50-50 times. The Eagles turn the ball over and give the potent Charger offense a short field to work with. Kicker Jake Elliot comes back to earth and misses malleable field goals.
In the end, there's a reason why the Chargers have not won a game yet this season.Yes, sooner or later they win, especially since the AFC West is so strong. The Eagles have always had problems with AFC teams. They could come out flat. Losing in California would leave them 2-2 and would undo a little of last week's big victory. Winning puts the Birds at 3-1, with more winnable games against Arizona and Carolina on the horizon.
The Redskins have another tough game this week at Kansas City. Dallas is home with the Rams, but that's not a piece of cake.The Cowboys better stock-up the wins before Zeke Elliot is suspended ( if ever). And, the Giants continue to struggle, with a tough road game with Tampa Bay on the agenda.
So, a victory over an 0-3 LA Chargers team would go a long way.But it won't be easy.
I say Eagles 24 Chargers 23
The Birds come off a big emotional win over division rival New York Giants. So you would think there would be a natural letdown. The Chargers are at home, in their small, 27,000 soccer stadium. Trap game? Yes, all the ingredients are there for an upset loss.
How the Eagles will win? Continue to run the ball. The LA defense is near the bottom of the league in run defense. Limit turnovers, get a pass rush against Charger QB Phillip Rivers, ho is prone to throwing interceptions. Get the lead early, force Rivers to throw. Los Angeles really doesn't give a damn about pro football so half of the stadium will be Eagles fans.
How can the Chargers win? Rivers takes advantage of the Philly secondary. LA gets the lead and makes Wenyz throw the ball 50-50 times. The Eagles turn the ball over and give the potent Charger offense a short field to work with. Kicker Jake Elliot comes back to earth and misses malleable field goals.
In the end, there's a reason why the Chargers have not won a game yet this season.Yes, sooner or later they win, especially since the AFC West is so strong. The Eagles have always had problems with AFC teams. They could come out flat. Losing in California would leave them 2-2 and would undo a little of last week's big victory. Winning puts the Birds at 3-1, with more winnable games against Arizona and Carolina on the horizon.
The Redskins have another tough game this week at Kansas City. Dallas is home with the Rams, but that's not a piece of cake.The Cowboys better stock-up the wins before Zeke Elliot is suspended ( if ever). And, the Giants continue to struggle, with a tough road game with Tampa Bay on the agenda.
So, a victory over an 0-3 LA Chargers team would go a long way.But it won't be easy.
I say Eagles 24 Chargers 23
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
IN THE NEWS- NONPROFIT WANTS TO CREATE 130K JOBS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
This from Disability Scoop..
A new effort with the backing of some major names in the advertising industry is launching with an ambitious goal: create 130,000 jobs for people with developmental disabilities by 2020.
Leaders of several New York advertising agencies are coming together to form the nonprofit Creative Spirit, which will work to grow employment opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities at advertising, media, marketing and technology firms across the country.
The group is looking to make a dent in what they say is an estimated 8 million Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities who lack integrated employment.
"This is a global crisis, and likely the most profound human rights employment issue of our time, yet it goes unsolved," said Laurel Ross, co-founder and CEO of Creative Spirit and chief marketing officer at the marketing agency Rauxa. "We believe that if the private sector comes together with its collective voice- and with the use of technology- that we can solve this problem at scale."
Creative Spirit is launching this week with a series of activities at Advertising Week in New York where an initial campaign to promote the nonprofit was unveiled. Plans include a $200,000 media push to create awareness of the need for integrated employment at fair wages for people with developmental disabilities.
The idea for Creative Spirit originated in Australia in 2009.Earlier this year, two people with developmental disabilities were hired at Rauxa's New York and Costa Mesa, Calif. offices as a pilot program in this country.
Already, those behind Creative Spirit say they have more than 50 employers including A&E Networks and the advertising agencies Fallon, Joan Creative and Deutsch who are looking to offer positions. The nonprofit said it will provide employment specialists and other supports to help participating companies effectively incorporate new hires with autism, Down syndrome and other disabilities.
Those with developmental disabilities who are interested in finding a job can sign up on the group's website to learn about available opportunities.
"There are few times when you can truly impact the industry status quo. We have that opportunity- right here, right now- with the launch of Creative Spirit, and we are really proud to bring the cause to life in North America," said Andy Bird, chief creative officer at the advertising agency Publicis New York.
A new effort with the backing of some major names in the advertising industry is launching with an ambitious goal: create 130,000 jobs for people with developmental disabilities by 2020.
Leaders of several New York advertising agencies are coming together to form the nonprofit Creative Spirit, which will work to grow employment opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities at advertising, media, marketing and technology firms across the country.
The group is looking to make a dent in what they say is an estimated 8 million Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities who lack integrated employment.
"This is a global crisis, and likely the most profound human rights employment issue of our time, yet it goes unsolved," said Laurel Ross, co-founder and CEO of Creative Spirit and chief marketing officer at the marketing agency Rauxa. "We believe that if the private sector comes together with its collective voice- and with the use of technology- that we can solve this problem at scale."
Creative Spirit is launching this week with a series of activities at Advertising Week in New York where an initial campaign to promote the nonprofit was unveiled. Plans include a $200,000 media push to create awareness of the need for integrated employment at fair wages for people with developmental disabilities.
The idea for Creative Spirit originated in Australia in 2009.Earlier this year, two people with developmental disabilities were hired at Rauxa's New York and Costa Mesa, Calif. offices as a pilot program in this country.
Already, those behind Creative Spirit say they have more than 50 employers including A&E Networks and the advertising agencies Fallon, Joan Creative and Deutsch who are looking to offer positions. The nonprofit said it will provide employment specialists and other supports to help participating companies effectively incorporate new hires with autism, Down syndrome and other disabilities.
Those with developmental disabilities who are interested in finding a job can sign up on the group's website to learn about available opportunities.
"There are few times when you can truly impact the industry status quo. We have that opportunity- right here, right now- with the launch of Creative Spirit, and we are really proud to bring the cause to life in North America," said Andy Bird, chief creative officer at the advertising agency Publicis New York.
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ-POT LUCK
Today's quiz is POT LUCK..
1. What war saw the first Medal of Honor awarded?
2. How many Japanese aircraft carriers took part in the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor?
3. What professional sport became so popular on television in the 1940s that it could be seen every night in some cities?
4. What language incorporates the most words?
5. Who was the first football player to rush for a mile in a season?
6. Do squirrels see in full color or black and white?
7. How many of King Henry VIII's wives were named Catherine?
8. What's the first possible property purchase in Monopoly?
9. What war saw Americans allowed to pay someone else to take their places as soldiers?
10. What vegetable dish combines with corned beef and cheese in a Reuben sandwich?
ANSWERS_
1. The U.S. Civil War
2. Six
3. Wrestling
4. English
5. Jim Brown
6. Black and white
7. Three
8. Baltic Avenue
9. The U.S. Civil War
10. Sauerkraut
.
1. What war saw the first Medal of Honor awarded?
2. How many Japanese aircraft carriers took part in the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor?
3. What professional sport became so popular on television in the 1940s that it could be seen every night in some cities?
4. What language incorporates the most words?
5. Who was the first football player to rush for a mile in a season?
6. Do squirrels see in full color or black and white?
7. How many of King Henry VIII's wives were named Catherine?
8. What's the first possible property purchase in Monopoly?
9. What war saw Americans allowed to pay someone else to take their places as soldiers?
10. What vegetable dish combines with corned beef and cheese in a Reuben sandwich?
ANSWERS_
1. The U.S. Civil War
2. Six
3. Wrestling
4. English
5. Jim Brown
6. Black and white
7. Three
8. Baltic Avenue
9. The U.S. Civil War
10. Sauerkraut
.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- PHILLIES, EAGLES
* With the Phillies 4-1 win last night, the team will not lose 100 games this season. Nice achievement, since the dubious distinction was almost certainly a given in June, when the team was losing like crazy. 100 losses was an afterthought; 110 defeats was even in mind.So, kudos to manager Pete Mackanin and the young players for doing better in the second half of the season.
Speaking of Mackanin, his fate will be determined soon. There is a meeting scheduled for Saturday to discuss Pete's future.
I'm thinking he will be back in 2018. He's under contract. The team did improve after the all-star break. Pete has made mistakes, and I didn't like the way he handled some of his underachieving, lazy players ( Herrera and Franco) But he is a good communicator, and with baseball's youngest team, it would be great to continue the transition.
In order for Pete to return he would need to fire most of his coaches. McClure, Stairs, Samuel and Morandini need to go. Bowa can stay as bench coach.
The front office needs to evaluate itself before Pete. They didn't give him much to work with early in the spring, with washed-up free agents such as Clay Bucholtz and Michael Saunders.
The Phils are still a bad team and need a lot of work in the off-season and beyond. Pete Mackanin should be the leas tof their concerns ofr at least another year.
* Guard Steve Wisnieski stepped in for the Eagles last Sunday against the Giants and solidified the offensive line. Chance Womack started and soon showed why he was a bus tin Tennessee. Wisnieski helped the running game and stopped the sacks on Carson Wentz. He is a solid vet who deserves to play.
The Birds brought back running back Kenyon Barner from the Chargers. He will be the punt returner for the rest of the season, since Darren Sproles is done. Barner showed promise the last few years. He didn't get much of a chance to play. Now he will have a chance to shine and force Howie Rossman to look at him on a long-term basis.
Speaking of Mackanin, his fate will be determined soon. There is a meeting scheduled for Saturday to discuss Pete's future.
I'm thinking he will be back in 2018. He's under contract. The team did improve after the all-star break. Pete has made mistakes, and I didn't like the way he handled some of his underachieving, lazy players ( Herrera and Franco) But he is a good communicator, and with baseball's youngest team, it would be great to continue the transition.
In order for Pete to return he would need to fire most of his coaches. McClure, Stairs, Samuel and Morandini need to go. Bowa can stay as bench coach.
The front office needs to evaluate itself before Pete. They didn't give him much to work with early in the spring, with washed-up free agents such as Clay Bucholtz and Michael Saunders.
The Phils are still a bad team and need a lot of work in the off-season and beyond. Pete Mackanin should be the leas tof their concerns ofr at least another year.
* Guard Steve Wisnieski stepped in for the Eagles last Sunday against the Giants and solidified the offensive line. Chance Womack started and soon showed why he was a bus tin Tennessee. Wisnieski helped the running game and stopped the sacks on Carson Wentz. He is a solid vet who deserves to play.
The Birds brought back running back Kenyon Barner from the Chargers. He will be the punt returner for the rest of the season, since Darren Sproles is done. Barner showed promise the last few years. He didn't get much of a chance to play. Now he will have a chance to shine and force Howie Rossman to look at him on a long-term basis.
THE PICK-WEEK 4- LAST FAN STANDING FOOTBALL POOL
I got really lucky last week in the Last Fan Standing football pool. I had Green Bay and they were losing at the half-at home- to lowly Cincinnati, 21-7. But with QB Aaron Rodgers you're never out of a game. Maybe the boos from the Packer fans woke up the Pack players because they did pull out an overtime win. So I survived.
This week I had a few choices. Arizona, after losing at home last Monday night, needs to win on Sunday ( also a home game) vs San Francisco before flying to the East Coast to face the Eagles.
I actually thing the Giants will get their first win of the season at Tampa Bay. If I was picking the Eagles-Chargers game, I may have to think about taking Los Angeles. They are home, a desperate 0-3 team that can score. The Birds are coming off an emotional division win, going west. Philly has never been great against AFC teams.
Instead I'm picking Seattle to beat Indianapolis.
The Seahawks are the biggest favorite on the board this week- 12 1/2 points- and rightfully so. Tough to beat in Seattle, they are 1-2 and need a win to keep pace in NFC West. They play a Colts team that struggled in Indy vs. an awful Cleveland Browns squad. QB Andrew Luck is still out. No way can I see the Colts going into Seattle and knocking off the Seahawks.
I looked at the upcoming schedule and I can't see a better spot to play Seattle. So I'll use them now.
By the way, if I was picking the game with a point spread, I would take Seattle giving the points. I see them crushing the Colts, 38-10.
This week I had a few choices. Arizona, after losing at home last Monday night, needs to win on Sunday ( also a home game) vs San Francisco before flying to the East Coast to face the Eagles.
I actually thing the Giants will get their first win of the season at Tampa Bay. If I was picking the Eagles-Chargers game, I may have to think about taking Los Angeles. They are home, a desperate 0-3 team that can score. The Birds are coming off an emotional division win, going west. Philly has never been great against AFC teams.
Instead I'm picking Seattle to beat Indianapolis.
The Seahawks are the biggest favorite on the board this week- 12 1/2 points- and rightfully so. Tough to beat in Seattle, they are 1-2 and need a win to keep pace in NFC West. They play a Colts team that struggled in Indy vs. an awful Cleveland Browns squad. QB Andrew Luck is still out. No way can I see the Colts going into Seattle and knocking off the Seahawks.
I looked at the upcoming schedule and I can't see a better spot to play Seattle. So I'll use them now.
By the way, if I was picking the game with a point spread, I would take Seattle giving the points. I see them crushing the Colts, 38-10.
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER-NFL WEEK 3 WRAP-UP ,PHILLIES, SIXERS
Week 3 of the NFL season was a week of upsets. After the favorites mostly dominated the first two weeks, week 3 was full of surprises. New England and Philadelphia squeaked out victories, which could've led to even bigger turnover.Here are the highlights:
Jets over Dolphins- OK< I didn't pick this game but knew it could be a trap, with Miami playing on the West Coast in week 2. It was a division game as well. The Jets are awful but they stepped up against the Dolphins. Miami travels to London to play the Saints, the third time the Dolphins have playing in England ( they are 0-2 in London games). New York stays at home against Jacksonville, who is favored on the road for the first time in years.
Titans over Seahawks- Tennessee held home field advantage in a game I did pick as an upset. Seattle just isn't the same team so far this season ( I do think they will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl next February).The Titans are 2-1 and travel to Houston to play the Texans on Sunday. The Seahawks go home and should massacre a hapless Indianapolis Colts squad.
Rams over 49'ers- This was the Thursday night game last week and it was a good 41-39 thriller. The Rams can score but they almost gave up the game. A late pass interference call saved the day for LA.Los Angeles goes to Dallas this week, a tough game for the Rams on the road. Meanwhile, the Niners go to Arizona to face an angry Cardinals team which lost their home opener last night to the Cowboys. San Francisco has been competitive so far this year, but it would be a reach for the 49'ers to beat Arizona on the road here.
Colts over Browns- An ugly game. The Browns were road favorites. Predictably, Cleveland isn't that good to win on the road just yet, even though they played a bad Indy team. The Browns go home and face rival Cincinnati in a battle of winless teams. Indianapolis are in a hopeless situation this week in Seattle against a hungry Seahawk team who should be in a blow-out mood. QB Andrew Luck is still sidelined for the Colts.
Chiefs over Chargers- Kansas City emerged in another tight game. The Chiefs are 3-0, one of only two undefeated team ( along with Atlanta) this early in the season. KC leads the AFC West as they return to Arrowhead Stadium for a Monday night showdown with the Washington Redskins.San Diego plays the Eagles. The Chargers are in a tough division. They may not win a game all season within their division , so they need to focus on the out of division games to have a decent record. Five wins would be a good season for the LA Chargers. Phillip Rivers can put up points, so they have a shot against the birds, who will be coming off an emotional win against the Giants, and having to fly cross country.
Patriots over Texans- It took a Tom Brady 23-yard touchdown pass to wide-out Brandon Cooks for New England to avoid being upset and losing two consecutive home games. Brady threw 5 TD passes on the day. The Pats stay at home this week with Carolina. Houston has a home game against the 2-1 Tennessee Titans. Houston is playing well and should take care of business at home this week.
Bears over Steelers- Yet another upset I picked. Pittsburgh was in the exact situation last season, when they lost the third game of the 2016 season to the Eagles at the Linc. Pittsburgh went to Chicago and got whipped by a desperate Bears team.Shit happens, and I still think the Steelers will reach the Super Bowl. But losing a winnable game like last Sunday will hurt when it comes to best record and home field advantage in the playoffs. The Bears go to Green Bay this Thursday night.Not a dire game for Chicago. They catch the Packers coming off an overtime win over the Bengals, in a hot,humid Lambeau Field. Injuries still riddle the Pack. Plus in the last 4 years, the Bears have actually won twice in Green Bay.
Redskins over Raiders- This was my major upset of the week. Just had a feeling the 'Skins would come out on Sunday night and play well. Oakland had to travel to the East Coast . They were due for a letdown after crushing the Jets in week 2. Washington stays in the AFC West this week when they play yet another prime time game, this time on Monday night, against the 3-0 Chiefs at tough Arrowhead. The Raiders have a big early season match up with he Broncos in Denver.Could be worse for Oakland- no snow or bitter cold yet in Denver. The Raiders are 2-1 and coming off an upset loss, as is the Broncos. Something's gotta give, and i actually think Oakland bounces back this week.
Vikings oven r Buccaneers- A surprise win for Minnesota,even at home, with QB Sam Bradford still sidelined. The Vikes stay at home in the dome this week against another dome team, Detroit. All will depend if Bradford plays or not. Tampa Bay goes back to sunny Florida to take on the scuffling New York Giants. The Bics are 1-1 and need to keep pace with hot Atlanta. I like Tampa a lot this week, despite the fact that the G-men played well in Philly. I think the Giants will be emotionally spent on the road( Who would've thought that the other New York team- the Jets- would have more wins at this point of the early season, than the Giants).Just be aware that Giants' QB Eli Manning is 5-0 all-time vs. Tampa.
Falcons over Lions- Atlanta can do no wrong so far in the early season. Instead of having a Super Bowl letdown,they seem to be angry and want to get back. Don't forget, taking away the second half meltdown to the Patriots in the Super Bowl, the Falcons played really well to build that lead, as they steamrolled through the NFC playoffs. Atlanta goes home to face a Buffalo Bills team who hasn't defeated the Falcons since 1995. Detroit goes on the road for a division game at Minnesota. Will Sam Bradford play?The Lions have grit, even though they are not in the same class as the Falcons.
Saints over Panthers- New Orleans needed a win in Carolina in a bad way and they got it, with QB Drew Brees again leading the charge. With Brees around the Saints always have a chance. They go to London to face the Dolphins. Carolina has a tough game at New England. The Panthers could easily drop to 2-2. They don't score enough points to keep up with Tom Brady. This is what I see for Carolina this season- an up-and-down, average team, finishing 8-8.
Bills over Broncos- It had to happen, and it's good to see any team challenge the Patriots for supremacy in AFC East. The Bills are 2-1 but they are in deep this week, as they ravel to Atlanta to take on the high-scoring Falcons. Denver goes back to Colorado to face the Raiders in an always-tough AFC West contest.
Jaguars over Ravens- This was a London a=game, and Jacksonville shockingly ambushed the Ravens, 44-7. Jet-lag? Jags experienced at playing in London? Or are the Jaguars that good and Baltimore that bad? Jacksonville stays on the road this week, after flying across the Atlantic, to play the Jets. The Jags are favored. New York can't possibly win two in a row, can they? Meanwhile, Baltimore has a home game with their biggest rival- Pittsburgh. Tough game to call. Home field advantage goes to the Ravens, Neither team wants to lose two in a row. The winner takes the lead in AFC Central.
*********************************************************************
The Phillies lost to the Nationals last night. It was Beatles Night at the Phillies. Weird to see Freddie Galvis' picture on the scoreboard wearing a Beatle haircut.Aaron Nola took the hard-luck loss and finishes the season at 12-11. Best of all, he stayed healthy and should be an anchor for the staff in 2018 .Rhys Hoskins is struggling. He is on hold with 17 homers and is 4 for his last 35 at bats. Hoskins may be running out of gas. He has a total of 47 home runs this year between Lehigh Valley and Philly. He was running on adrenaline when he was promoted on August 10. He needs to readjust to pitchers who are painting the outside corner and enticing Hoskins to chase bad pitches. I bet he comes out of spring training his old self.
The Phils need to win just one game out of the next 5 home games to avoid losing 100 games for the first time since 1061. They are what they are- a bad team playing a little better since the all-star break. Psychologically, it's important not to lose 100 games. It looks bad in the record books
It actually wouldn't be a bad idea to lose this week against Washington and the Mets..The Fightins are tied with the San Francisco Giants for the worst record in baseball, with 95 defeats, a game ahead of the Tigers with 94 losses. Losing secures the No. 1 overall pick in the Major League Draft next June. Losing may also sour the front office to make changes this off-season- both on and off the field.
********************************************************************
The Sixers start training camp today. Ben Simmons and Markell Fultz have both proclaimed themselves as being healthy and ready to play. Joel Embiid remains a different story.
l limited, not participating in 5-on-5 basketball. Embiid is hedging on playing all 82 games this season. How can you say you're not going to play all the games if you don't know how you're gonna feel?
Either Embiid is recuperating from a more significant injury than we have been told, or he is angling for a contract extension.
Embiid has a winning personality and seems to be the building block for the future. But he has only played 31 games in three years! And you're going to give him more money for being injured? Stupid.
To me, the guy has got to play and prove himself more. Not only that he is the great basketball player he has shown in flashes, but more importantly, that he can stay healthy and injury-free for a sustained period. The Sixers have a good, young core now. I get it that they are conservative with their prized center ( the Sixers' medical staff are way too conservative). Fans are buying into season, with all the season tickets sold. so far. Stop babying these grown men. The long-suffering fans deserve the truth and deserve to see what they are investing in, not on promises and what ifs.
The front office are enablers and not to be trusted. Embiid is even starting to buy into the let's-wait-and-see approach. Will he play back-to-back games? Will he have minutes restrictions?
Let him loose and see if he fails or blossoms. It's only fair to the player and the fans.
Jets over Dolphins- OK< I didn't pick this game but knew it could be a trap, with Miami playing on the West Coast in week 2. It was a division game as well. The Jets are awful but they stepped up against the Dolphins. Miami travels to London to play the Saints, the third time the Dolphins have playing in England ( they are 0-2 in London games). New York stays at home against Jacksonville, who is favored on the road for the first time in years.
Titans over Seahawks- Tennessee held home field advantage in a game I did pick as an upset. Seattle just isn't the same team so far this season ( I do think they will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl next February).The Titans are 2-1 and travel to Houston to play the Texans on Sunday. The Seahawks go home and should massacre a hapless Indianapolis Colts squad.
Rams over 49'ers- This was the Thursday night game last week and it was a good 41-39 thriller. The Rams can score but they almost gave up the game. A late pass interference call saved the day for LA.Los Angeles goes to Dallas this week, a tough game for the Rams on the road. Meanwhile, the Niners go to Arizona to face an angry Cardinals team which lost their home opener last night to the Cowboys. San Francisco has been competitive so far this year, but it would be a reach for the 49'ers to beat Arizona on the road here.
Colts over Browns- An ugly game. The Browns were road favorites. Predictably, Cleveland isn't that good to win on the road just yet, even though they played a bad Indy team. The Browns go home and face rival Cincinnati in a battle of winless teams. Indianapolis are in a hopeless situation this week in Seattle against a hungry Seahawk team who should be in a blow-out mood. QB Andrew Luck is still sidelined for the Colts.
Chiefs over Chargers- Kansas City emerged in another tight game. The Chiefs are 3-0, one of only two undefeated team ( along with Atlanta) this early in the season. KC leads the AFC West as they return to Arrowhead Stadium for a Monday night showdown with the Washington Redskins.San Diego plays the Eagles. The Chargers are in a tough division. They may not win a game all season within their division , so they need to focus on the out of division games to have a decent record. Five wins would be a good season for the LA Chargers. Phillip Rivers can put up points, so they have a shot against the birds, who will be coming off an emotional win against the Giants, and having to fly cross country.
Patriots over Texans- It took a Tom Brady 23-yard touchdown pass to wide-out Brandon Cooks for New England to avoid being upset and losing two consecutive home games. Brady threw 5 TD passes on the day. The Pats stay at home this week with Carolina. Houston has a home game against the 2-1 Tennessee Titans. Houston is playing well and should take care of business at home this week.
Bears over Steelers- Yet another upset I picked. Pittsburgh was in the exact situation last season, when they lost the third game of the 2016 season to the Eagles at the Linc. Pittsburgh went to Chicago and got whipped by a desperate Bears team.Shit happens, and I still think the Steelers will reach the Super Bowl. But losing a winnable game like last Sunday will hurt when it comes to best record and home field advantage in the playoffs. The Bears go to Green Bay this Thursday night.Not a dire game for Chicago. They catch the Packers coming off an overtime win over the Bengals, in a hot,humid Lambeau Field. Injuries still riddle the Pack. Plus in the last 4 years, the Bears have actually won twice in Green Bay.
Redskins over Raiders- This was my major upset of the week. Just had a feeling the 'Skins would come out on Sunday night and play well. Oakland had to travel to the East Coast . They were due for a letdown after crushing the Jets in week 2. Washington stays in the AFC West this week when they play yet another prime time game, this time on Monday night, against the 3-0 Chiefs at tough Arrowhead. The Raiders have a big early season match up with he Broncos in Denver.Could be worse for Oakland- no snow or bitter cold yet in Denver. The Raiders are 2-1 and coming off an upset loss, as is the Broncos. Something's gotta give, and i actually think Oakland bounces back this week.
Vikings oven r Buccaneers- A surprise win for Minnesota,even at home, with QB Sam Bradford still sidelined. The Vikes stay at home in the dome this week against another dome team, Detroit. All will depend if Bradford plays or not. Tampa Bay goes back to sunny Florida to take on the scuffling New York Giants. The Bics are 1-1 and need to keep pace with hot Atlanta. I like Tampa a lot this week, despite the fact that the G-men played well in Philly. I think the Giants will be emotionally spent on the road( Who would've thought that the other New York team- the Jets- would have more wins at this point of the early season, than the Giants).Just be aware that Giants' QB Eli Manning is 5-0 all-time vs. Tampa.
Falcons over Lions- Atlanta can do no wrong so far in the early season. Instead of having a Super Bowl letdown,they seem to be angry and want to get back. Don't forget, taking away the second half meltdown to the Patriots in the Super Bowl, the Falcons played really well to build that lead, as they steamrolled through the NFC playoffs. Atlanta goes home to face a Buffalo Bills team who hasn't defeated the Falcons since 1995. Detroit goes on the road for a division game at Minnesota. Will Sam Bradford play?The Lions have grit, even though they are not in the same class as the Falcons.
Saints over Panthers- New Orleans needed a win in Carolina in a bad way and they got it, with QB Drew Brees again leading the charge. With Brees around the Saints always have a chance. They go to London to face the Dolphins. Carolina has a tough game at New England. The Panthers could easily drop to 2-2. They don't score enough points to keep up with Tom Brady. This is what I see for Carolina this season- an up-and-down, average team, finishing 8-8.
Bills over Broncos- It had to happen, and it's good to see any team challenge the Patriots for supremacy in AFC East. The Bills are 2-1 but they are in deep this week, as they ravel to Atlanta to take on the high-scoring Falcons. Denver goes back to Colorado to face the Raiders in an always-tough AFC West contest.
Jaguars over Ravens- This was a London a=game, and Jacksonville shockingly ambushed the Ravens, 44-7. Jet-lag? Jags experienced at playing in London? Or are the Jaguars that good and Baltimore that bad? Jacksonville stays on the road this week, after flying across the Atlantic, to play the Jets. The Jags are favored. New York can't possibly win two in a row, can they? Meanwhile, Baltimore has a home game with their biggest rival- Pittsburgh. Tough game to call. Home field advantage goes to the Ravens, Neither team wants to lose two in a row. The winner takes the lead in AFC Central.
*********************************************************************
The Phillies lost to the Nationals last night. It was Beatles Night at the Phillies. Weird to see Freddie Galvis' picture on the scoreboard wearing a Beatle haircut.Aaron Nola took the hard-luck loss and finishes the season at 12-11. Best of all, he stayed healthy and should be an anchor for the staff in 2018 .Rhys Hoskins is struggling. He is on hold with 17 homers and is 4 for his last 35 at bats. Hoskins may be running out of gas. He has a total of 47 home runs this year between Lehigh Valley and Philly. He was running on adrenaline when he was promoted on August 10. He needs to readjust to pitchers who are painting the outside corner and enticing Hoskins to chase bad pitches. I bet he comes out of spring training his old self.
The Phils need to win just one game out of the next 5 home games to avoid losing 100 games for the first time since 1061. They are what they are- a bad team playing a little better since the all-star break. Psychologically, it's important not to lose 100 games. It looks bad in the record books
It actually wouldn't be a bad idea to lose this week against Washington and the Mets..The Fightins are tied with the San Francisco Giants for the worst record in baseball, with 95 defeats, a game ahead of the Tigers with 94 losses. Losing secures the No. 1 overall pick in the Major League Draft next June. Losing may also sour the front office to make changes this off-season- both on and off the field.
********************************************************************
The Sixers start training camp today. Ben Simmons and Markell Fultz have both proclaimed themselves as being healthy and ready to play. Joel Embiid remains a different story.
l limited, not participating in 5-on-5 basketball. Embiid is hedging on playing all 82 games this season. How can you say you're not going to play all the games if you don't know how you're gonna feel?
Either Embiid is recuperating from a more significant injury than we have been told, or he is angling for a contract extension.
Embiid has a winning personality and seems to be the building block for the future. But he has only played 31 games in three years! And you're going to give him more money for being injured? Stupid.
To me, the guy has got to play and prove himself more. Not only that he is the great basketball player he has shown in flashes, but more importantly, that he can stay healthy and injury-free for a sustained period. The Sixers have a good, young core now. I get it that they are conservative with their prized center ( the Sixers' medical staff are way too conservative). Fans are buying into season, with all the season tickets sold. so far. Stop babying these grown men. The long-suffering fans deserve the truth and deserve to see what they are investing in, not on promises and what ifs.
The front office are enablers and not to be trusted. Embiid is even starting to buy into the let's-wait-and-see approach. Will he play back-to-back games? Will he have minutes restrictions?
Let him loose and see if he fails or blossoms. It's only fair to the player and the fans.
IN THE NEWS- DISABILITY ADVOCATES ARRESTED PROTESTING MEDICAID CUTS
An important headline from Disability Scoop..
Over 100 disability rights advocates were arrested while protesting Medicaid changes in a proposal to overhaul the nation's health care system. Hours later, the GOP plan appeared doomed.
U.S. Capitol Police forcibly removed 15 activists- many in wheelchairs- from a Senate Finance Committee hearing on Capitol Hill Monday afternoon after their roaring chants of "no cuts to Medicaid, save our liberty" delayed senators from proceeding.
The protesters were dragged from the hearing room as lawmakers looked on. Another 166 demonstrators were arrested in the adjacent hallway.
Some were charged with disruption of Congress, while others were cited for crowding, obstructing or incommoding and a portion of the demonstrators also faced charges of resisting arrest, according to Capitol Police.
The majority of those detained were members of the disability rights group ADAPT who came from across the country to oppose the Graham-Cassidy bill, which would repeal the Affordable Care Act and fundamentally alter Medicaid.
By Monday evening, the Republican proposal to be nearing collapse as Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, joined Sens. John McCain, R-Ariz., and Rand Paul, R-Ky., in announcing that she would oppose the measure. With Democrats and independents against the plan, Republicans could not afford to lose more than two votes from their own party.
Collins' announcement followed the release of a preliminary analysis of the Graham-Cassidy bill from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office indicating that the plan would leave "million" without health insurance.
The GOP proposal would grant states significantly more discretion over health care and impose first-ever caps on Medicaid. Under the plan, federal spending on Medicaid would be reduced by about $1 trillion between now and 2026, according to the CBO analysis.
That would leave states to chip in more of their own funds or cut costs by reducing payments to providers, restricting eligibility, slashing optional services or enhancing program efficiency. States would likely resort to a mix of those approaches, the budget office said.
Disability advocacy groups have united against the proposal, arguing that cuts to Medicaid would lead states to curtail home and community-based services, which are considered optional.
"Forcing disabled people and seniors into institutions just to pay for tax cuts, which is what this bill does, is not equality. It's not liberty," said Dawn Russell, an ADAPT organizer from Denver. "Graham-Cassidy is a policy for a much crueler and meaner country than this one, and the people who support it should be ashamed of themselves."
The renewed push to repeal the Affordable Care Act comes as the clock is ticking for Republicans. Thanks to a procedural maneuver, a health care bill could pass with only a simple majority by Sept. 30. Beyond then, however, 60 votes would be needed.
Even with momentum for the Republican plan waning, disability advocates are continuing to push their members to call senators since there hasn't yet been a vote.
"The danger right now is if Senate offices think that folks aren't as outraged about this bill as the last, so every individual voice adds to the overwhelming wall of pressure we're fighting to maintain," said Julia Bascom, executive director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network.
Over 100 disability rights advocates were arrested while protesting Medicaid changes in a proposal to overhaul the nation's health care system. Hours later, the GOP plan appeared doomed.
U.S. Capitol Police forcibly removed 15 activists- many in wheelchairs- from a Senate Finance Committee hearing on Capitol Hill Monday afternoon after their roaring chants of "no cuts to Medicaid, save our liberty" delayed senators from proceeding.
The protesters were dragged from the hearing room as lawmakers looked on. Another 166 demonstrators were arrested in the adjacent hallway.
Some were charged with disruption of Congress, while others were cited for crowding, obstructing or incommoding and a portion of the demonstrators also faced charges of resisting arrest, according to Capitol Police.
The majority of those detained were members of the disability rights group ADAPT who came from across the country to oppose the Graham-Cassidy bill, which would repeal the Affordable Care Act and fundamentally alter Medicaid.
By Monday evening, the Republican proposal to be nearing collapse as Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, joined Sens. John McCain, R-Ariz., and Rand Paul, R-Ky., in announcing that she would oppose the measure. With Democrats and independents against the plan, Republicans could not afford to lose more than two votes from their own party.
Collins' announcement followed the release of a preliminary analysis of the Graham-Cassidy bill from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office indicating that the plan would leave "million" without health insurance.
The GOP proposal would grant states significantly more discretion over health care and impose first-ever caps on Medicaid. Under the plan, federal spending on Medicaid would be reduced by about $1 trillion between now and 2026, according to the CBO analysis.
That would leave states to chip in more of their own funds or cut costs by reducing payments to providers, restricting eligibility, slashing optional services or enhancing program efficiency. States would likely resort to a mix of those approaches, the budget office said.
Disability advocacy groups have united against the proposal, arguing that cuts to Medicaid would lead states to curtail home and community-based services, which are considered optional.
"Forcing disabled people and seniors into institutions just to pay for tax cuts, which is what this bill does, is not equality. It's not liberty," said Dawn Russell, an ADAPT organizer from Denver. "Graham-Cassidy is a policy for a much crueler and meaner country than this one, and the people who support it should be ashamed of themselves."
The renewed push to repeal the Affordable Care Act comes as the clock is ticking for Republicans. Thanks to a procedural maneuver, a health care bill could pass with only a simple majority by Sept. 30. Beyond then, however, 60 votes would be needed.
Even with momentum for the Republican plan waning, disability advocates are continuing to push their members to call senators since there hasn't yet been a vote.
"The danger right now is if Senate offices think that folks aren't as outraged about this bill as the last, so every individual voice adds to the overwhelming wall of pressure we're fighting to maintain," said Julia Bascom, executive director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network.
Monday, September 25, 2017
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ-POT LUCK
POT LUCK- anything goes today!
1. What color belt comes between orange and blue in North American judo?
2. Who pushes the witch into the oven- Hansel or Gretel?
3. Which extends farthest north- New Hampshire, New York or Vermont?
4. What, in 1962, became the first comedy since I Love Lucy to rank No. 1 with TV viewers?
5. What's the world's longest mountain range, stretching 4,500 miles?
6. What was the first state to secede from the Union, on December 20, 1860?
7. Which way do tornadoes turn in the Northern Hemisphere- clockwise or counterclockwise?
8. Within five years, how old was Michelangelo when he died?
9. What did bowling lane owners in the late 1800s sometimes award to players who scored three strikes in a row?
10. Who played John Boy on The Waltons?
ANSWERS-
1. Green
2. Gretel
3. New Hampshire
4. The Beverly Hillbillies
5. The Andes Mountains
6. South Carolina
7. Counterclockwise
8. 89
9. Live turkeys
10. Richard Thomas
1. What color belt comes between orange and blue in North American judo?
2. Who pushes the witch into the oven- Hansel or Gretel?
3. Which extends farthest north- New Hampshire, New York or Vermont?
4. What, in 1962, became the first comedy since I Love Lucy to rank No. 1 with TV viewers?
5. What's the world's longest mountain range, stretching 4,500 miles?
6. What was the first state to secede from the Union, on December 20, 1860?
7. Which way do tornadoes turn in the Northern Hemisphere- clockwise or counterclockwise?
8. Within five years, how old was Michelangelo when he died?
9. What did bowling lane owners in the late 1800s sometimes award to players who scored three strikes in a row?
10. Who played John Boy on The Waltons?
ANSWERS-
1. Green
2. Gretel
3. New Hampshire
4. The Beverly Hillbillies
5. The Andes Mountains
6. South Carolina
7. Counterclockwise
8. 89
9. Live turkeys
10. Richard Thomas
IN THE NEWS- REPORT; DIRECT CARE WORKERS CAN'T AFFORD TO STAY IN JOBS
This from Disability Scoop..
The direct support professionals that man people with disabilities rely on are barely getting by, with new data showing they make little more than minimum wage despite surging demand.
The median hourly wage for home care workers is $10.49, but due to varying hours, those in the field typically make just $13,800 per year.
The figures come from an annual report out this month from PHI- a group that works to promote the direct support workforce- that's based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Low wages have persisted in the direct support workforce even as the number of people working in the field has more than doubled in the last decade, PHI said.
When adjusted for inflation, the report found that hourly wages for home care workers are up just 16 cents compared to 2006.
About 1 in 5 home care workers lives below the federal poverty line and more than half rely on public assistance. The majority work part-time or only a portion of the year, according to PHI.
The picture is only marginally better for nursing assistants working in people's homes, PHI found, with those jobs netting a median wage of $12.34 per hour or roughly $20,000 annually.
"This important research continues to paint a troubling picture: direct care workers cannot afford to stay in these jobs, and when they eventually leave the sector, many families struggle to care for their loved ones without the support they need," said Kezia Scales, director of policy research at PHI.
The direct support professionals that man people with disabilities rely on are barely getting by, with new data showing they make little more than minimum wage despite surging demand.
The median hourly wage for home care workers is $10.49, but due to varying hours, those in the field typically make just $13,800 per year.
The figures come from an annual report out this month from PHI- a group that works to promote the direct support workforce- that's based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Low wages have persisted in the direct support workforce even as the number of people working in the field has more than doubled in the last decade, PHI said.
When adjusted for inflation, the report found that hourly wages for home care workers are up just 16 cents compared to 2006.
About 1 in 5 home care workers lives below the federal poverty line and more than half rely on public assistance. The majority work part-time or only a portion of the year, according to PHI.
The picture is only marginally better for nursing assistants working in people's homes, PHI found, with those jobs netting a median wage of $12.34 per hour or roughly $20,000 annually.
"This important research continues to paint a troubling picture: direct care workers cannot afford to stay in these jobs, and when they eventually leave the sector, many families struggle to care for their loved ones without the support they need," said Kezia Scales, director of policy research at PHI.
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER
Read my Eagles thoughts in CHIRPING BIRDS post in this blog. Meanwhile...
* The Phillies salvaged a game in Atlanta yesterday. That's it for the road schedule. The remaining 6 games are at home vs the Nationals and the Mets. The Phils only need to win one game to assure they won't lose 100 games this season.
* Nick Pivetta again showed why he has potential and should be in the rotation mix in spring training. Pivetta has great stuff, but location is a problem. He gives up way too many home runs. To me, he stands out among the group of Eflin, Thompson and the other young pitchers who have been up and down this summer.
* Beatles Night at the Phillies tonight! Hopefully it won't be a "Hard Days Night" for the Fightins.
* Sixers' Joel Embiid was seen at the Eagles game on Sunday, jumping and cheering for the Birds. The Sixers' medical staff is so super-conservative. His "minor" knee surgery was six months ago. If he's not ready to play on opening night in a few weeks, something is wrong.
With the Angels all but out of the baseball playoff race, look for Mike Trout to be at future Eagles home games, starting in two weeks against Arizona.
* Late news: RB Darren Sproles is reported to have suffered both a broken arm and torn ACL on the same play in Sunday's Eagles-Giants game. That shelves Sproles for the season, and possibly for his career. Sproles said he only wanted to play one more year.
In the short run, the running back situation is murky. Blount will handle the short-yardage situations; Smallwood will probably be the every down guy; and expect to see more of Clement. The club will miss Sproles as a punt returner- always dangerous- and as a combo runner/slot receiver. Rookie Darnell Pumphrey was supposed to be the younger version of Sproles, but he underachieved in the pre-season and is now injured as well.
It will be interesting to see if GM Howie Rossman picks up another back on the waiver wire this week.
* A week to go in the regular season of major league baseball. Most races look settled. The Nats clinched NL East weeks ago. The Cubs are holding off Milwaukee and St. Louis and look to finally secure NL Central . The Dodgers have won 99 games and await the playoffs. The wild card race in the National League is still up for grabs Arizona has one spot locked up, and will have the home game in the one-game playoff. Colorado has a one game lead over the Brewers, with the Cards right behind.
It looks like the Dodgers will play the wild card winner, with the Cubs and Nationals playing in the other series.
In the American League, Boston is close to clinching the AL East race. Cleveland has run away with the AL Central crown. Houston has long since wrapped up the AL West. The wild card race seems set with the Yankees hosting the Twins next week. The Indians will play the wild card winner, while the Astros and Red Sox tangle in a division series.
* I don't like to mix sports with politics. Sports should be fun and entertaining, a pleasant diversion form the reality of everyday life.So I won't comment on the player's kneeling, locking arms or whatever during the national Anthem. It's stupid and I really don't care.
All I can say is to each his/her own. I respect the flag and personally feel everyone should honor the flag in a respectful way. Republican, Democrat or whatever, honoring America and respecting our flag should be an issue that no one disagrees with.
* The Phillies salvaged a game in Atlanta yesterday. That's it for the road schedule. The remaining 6 games are at home vs the Nationals and the Mets. The Phils only need to win one game to assure they won't lose 100 games this season.
* Nick Pivetta again showed why he has potential and should be in the rotation mix in spring training. Pivetta has great stuff, but location is a problem. He gives up way too many home runs. To me, he stands out among the group of Eflin, Thompson and the other young pitchers who have been up and down this summer.
* Beatles Night at the Phillies tonight! Hopefully it won't be a "Hard Days Night" for the Fightins.
* Sixers' Joel Embiid was seen at the Eagles game on Sunday, jumping and cheering for the Birds. The Sixers' medical staff is so super-conservative. His "minor" knee surgery was six months ago. If he's not ready to play on opening night in a few weeks, something is wrong.
With the Angels all but out of the baseball playoff race, look for Mike Trout to be at future Eagles home games, starting in two weeks against Arizona.
* Late news: RB Darren Sproles is reported to have suffered both a broken arm and torn ACL on the same play in Sunday's Eagles-Giants game. That shelves Sproles for the season, and possibly for his career. Sproles said he only wanted to play one more year.
In the short run, the running back situation is murky. Blount will handle the short-yardage situations; Smallwood will probably be the every down guy; and expect to see more of Clement. The club will miss Sproles as a punt returner- always dangerous- and as a combo runner/slot receiver. Rookie Darnell Pumphrey was supposed to be the younger version of Sproles, but he underachieved in the pre-season and is now injured as well.
It will be interesting to see if GM Howie Rossman picks up another back on the waiver wire this week.
* A week to go in the regular season of major league baseball. Most races look settled. The Nats clinched NL East weeks ago. The Cubs are holding off Milwaukee and St. Louis and look to finally secure NL Central . The Dodgers have won 99 games and await the playoffs. The wild card race in the National League is still up for grabs Arizona has one spot locked up, and will have the home game in the one-game playoff. Colorado has a one game lead over the Brewers, with the Cards right behind.
It looks like the Dodgers will play the wild card winner, with the Cubs and Nationals playing in the other series.
In the American League, Boston is close to clinching the AL East race. Cleveland has run away with the AL Central crown. Houston has long since wrapped up the AL West. The wild card race seems set with the Yankees hosting the Twins next week. The Indians will play the wild card winner, while the Astros and Red Sox tangle in a division series.
* I don't like to mix sports with politics. Sports should be fun and entertaining, a pleasant diversion form the reality of everyday life.So I won't comment on the player's kneeling, locking arms or whatever during the national Anthem. It's stupid and I really don't care.
All I can say is to each his/her own. I respect the flag and personally feel everyone should honor the flag in a respectful way. Republican, Democrat or whatever, honoring America and respecting our flag should be an issue that no one disagrees with.
CHIRPING BIRDS- EAGLES OVER GIANTS REVIEW
My thoughts on the Eagles' thrilling 27-24 victory over the New York Giants...
*The Giants had a great game plan, using the no-huddle offense thru-out the game. Eli Manning was accurate with his quick-drop short passes. Not only were Eagle defenders playing too soft on the New York receivers, Manning didn't hold the ball long enough for the Philly pass rush to sack the NY quarterback.. Later in the game, when the Giants needed to get the ball down field more, Vinny Curry and others put the heat on Eli.
* Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz never did adjust to the Giants' game plan. I guess he thought his secondary could not handle the New York passing game one-on-one. He played zone all day and hardly blitzed. True, the Eagle secondary was banged up. But the Giants exploited the seams in the Philly defense all day. Schwartz got ultra-conservative with the lead in the 4th quarter. He got away with it yesterday, but Schwartz scares me with the way he coaches defense in the future.
* Same thing about Coach Doug Pederson. He made a really stupid call late in the 1st half, going for a 4th-and- eight near mid-field, instead of punting and pinning the G-men back near the end of the half. First, it was a crazy move. It's different when you only have a yard to go. Carson Wentz converted two fourth-and-inches tries earlier. But the Birds needed eight yards! You give the struggling Giants great field position if you do not convert.
The attempt predictably failed. The Giants got the ball and drove it down to the Philadelphia goal line. There, New York went brain-dead with only three inches for a touchdown ( the NY coach McAdoo may be even a worse play-caller than Pederson). So, Doug escaped a brutal call ( How big would a Giant field goal been then?).
Pederson scares me. Hopefully he learns form the awful decision. But that's why Pederson is going to give Eagles fans angina all season. You just never know when he will do something goofy. I don't trust him. He is admittedly learning on the job. I don't have much faith on the coach and still think he will cost the team sometime this season.
Note" Hardly anyone agreed with Pederson's terrible decision. Pederson later said he consulted his analytics guy in the booth for that decision. First, why even consult a nerdy, geeky guy like that? Use basic common sense! One doesn't have to be a head football coach or even a stupid analytics guy ( was Matt Klentak in the booth?) to know it was a bad play-call. Listen to the fans!
Some young guy form Bleeding Green Nation who was on the WIP Morning Show today agreed with Pederson. Typical millennial who thinks analytics are cool.
* LaGarrette Blount run like man on fire yesterday, not only scoring twice on short runs near the goal, but slashing the Giants' defense in the first half. He looked like a man on a mission. Strange, he doesn't touch the ball last week in Kansas City but is the featured runner yesterday against the Giants?
Hopefully Pederson gets the idea and continues to use the ground game. It opens up the pass game, controls the clock and gives the defense a pest, especially on a brutally hot afternoon like Sunday.
* The Philly offense, despite scoring 27 points, still isn't clicking on all cylinders. Not much down the field. The dink-and -dunk West Coast offense. Sometimes you gotta takes shots over the top to keep the opposing defense honest.
Zach Ertz remains a mystery. He caught an easy touchdown pass, but also dropped one and had a crucial fumble in the second half which helped the new York comeback.
Ertz will hopefully have a break-out season, a Pro Bowl year. He seems to be Wentz' favorite target, his security blanket over the middle and in the slot. I won't kill Ertz. Everyone fumbles now and then, even in big situations. I have more faith in Ertz than I do in Pederson.
* What the hell is wrong with Odell Beckham Jr.? He's a great player and caught two incredible touchdown passes yesterday. But Beckham Jr. lived up to his reputation as an immature punk when, after scoring his first TD, he crawled on the ground at the back of the end zone, lifted his right leg and pretended to pee like a dog.
Who even plans something as classless and vulgar as that? He got an unsportsmanlike penalty for the act; hopefully he gets fined by the league as well.
I would love him to catch passes for the Eagles. He's got incredible talent, speed and makes circus catches like no other receiver. But Beckham Jr. has got to be an embarrassment for an otherwise classy Giants organization.
* So much went into Jake Elliot's last-second 51-yard field goal to win the game. It was the longest field goal ever at the steamy Linc. It was the longest field goal in Eagles history period. And it won a division home game vs your arch-rival.
The New York punter, Brad Wing, shanked a punt just before the last drive. The 24-yard punt gave Wentz and the offense a chance to even get close enough to try a long, miracle FG. A normal punt and it never happens.
The Philly clock operator gave the Birds one second to try the winning field goal Twice the Linc clock operator gave the Birds a break. Home field advantage!
The kick itself...Elliot had made and missed long field goals earlier in the game. For Pederson to say in his press conference that he "knew" Elliot would make that kick was ridiculous.
Like the movie "Rudy", Elliot was mobbed and carried off the field by Eagle players. You gotta think the rest of the season will tell Elliot's fate with the team. Caleb Sturgis is an OK kicker, but if he loses his job, Wally Pip-like by injury, I wouldn't be too depressed. Sturgis is no Morton Andersen. So, Elliot will either stay with the team and become a David Akers guy for the next 10 years, or he will fade into Eagles' history, always remembered, the answer to a great trivia question down the road.
Beckham Jr. was lurking in the end zone, hoping for a chance to run back the short field goal attempt. I wonder what he was thinking as the ball went over the crossbar with a few feet to spare? Beckham Jr. can jump- did he have a chance to knock the ball away?.
* The thrilling victory may have come with a steep price: at least 3 Eagles came out of the hot, sweaty game with significant injuries. RB Darren Sproles reported has a broken right arm. More details due today, but count him out for maybe 6-8 weeks; DT Fletcher Cox torn a calf muscle. Will he be week-to-week/ And LB Jordan Hicks suffered some sort of unspecified leg injury. All would be costly if lost any amount of time.
* So, what's the bottom line/ Give the Eagles credit for coming back twice in the 4th quarter. yes, they blew a big lead when they dominated all day and seemed to have the Giants down and out. but they did come back, and Wentz did engineer a game-winning drive at tithe end, something rare.
The Birds are 2-1. winning their home opener in front of a crazed crowd. They are 2-0 in the NFC East, which is big. If they had to win 2 out of the first 3 games, winning the pair of division games was the way to go.
They travel to Los Angeles next Sunday to face the 0-3 Chargers. Could it be a trap game? Philly coming off of n emotional win? Travelling across the country to play a struggling Charger team that can score points, led by the always- dangerous QB Phillip Rivers. Don't the Chargers have to finally win in LA sooner or later?
Meanwhile, the Giants, despite playing hard, are 0-3 and have to be emotionally drained The have games with Tampa Bay, Seattle and Denver on the horizon. Stick a fork in 'em, they are cooked.
Elsewhere....
* They must've shown that stupid Hynda commercial where a driver sings Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline" at least 5 times during the game. I hate it with a passion, so pre-conceived and not real. Typical of most car ads and commercials in general. However, a clever and funny ad was the Geiko one ( their commercials are generally funny) where the guy was playing a "triangle solo" in an orchestra, withering on the floor like Chuck Berry doing a guitar solo.
* I finally got a chanc eto catch Tony Romo doing the Green Bay- Cincinnati game on CBS, and, as much as I hate to admit it, he was really good. Talks to much, but he has a lot of information and seems refreshingly enthusiastic about what he is watching.
For instance, He pointed out that if a team in a two-minute drill has time-outs to use, always use one around the one minute mark. It comes down to math, Romo explained, and how many plays you can get off in a minute. You never want to not have enough time, he reasoned. And he's right.
I thought another Dallas quarterback,Troy Aiken, was a good color guy, but after listening to Romo, I have to begrudgingly say that he may be the best analyst out there right now.
* I barely survived another week in Glen Macnow's Last Fan Standing football pool, as the Packers escaped at home over a feisty Bengals team. It was a week of upsets, with teams like the Bears, redskins, Jets and Titans all winning ( I did predict the Washington and Chicago victories), so the players should be weeded out a bit. The upsets could've been even bigger if the Patriots didn't survive in New England at the end vs the Texans.
My complete NFL week 3 wrap-up will appear in the blog tomorrow. Tonight it's the Cowboys visiting the Cardinals in Monday Night football. I say Arizona wins, leaving the Eagles tied for the lead in NFC East with Washington, both at 2-1. Technically, the Birds would be ahead, having already beaten the 'Skins.
*The Giants had a great game plan, using the no-huddle offense thru-out the game. Eli Manning was accurate with his quick-drop short passes. Not only were Eagle defenders playing too soft on the New York receivers, Manning didn't hold the ball long enough for the Philly pass rush to sack the NY quarterback.. Later in the game, when the Giants needed to get the ball down field more, Vinny Curry and others put the heat on Eli.
* Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz never did adjust to the Giants' game plan. I guess he thought his secondary could not handle the New York passing game one-on-one. He played zone all day and hardly blitzed. True, the Eagle secondary was banged up. But the Giants exploited the seams in the Philly defense all day. Schwartz got ultra-conservative with the lead in the 4th quarter. He got away with it yesterday, but Schwartz scares me with the way he coaches defense in the future.
* Same thing about Coach Doug Pederson. He made a really stupid call late in the 1st half, going for a 4th-and- eight near mid-field, instead of punting and pinning the G-men back near the end of the half. First, it was a crazy move. It's different when you only have a yard to go. Carson Wentz converted two fourth-and-inches tries earlier. But the Birds needed eight yards! You give the struggling Giants great field position if you do not convert.
The attempt predictably failed. The Giants got the ball and drove it down to the Philadelphia goal line. There, New York went brain-dead with only three inches for a touchdown ( the NY coach McAdoo may be even a worse play-caller than Pederson). So, Doug escaped a brutal call ( How big would a Giant field goal been then?).
Pederson scares me. Hopefully he learns form the awful decision. But that's why Pederson is going to give Eagles fans angina all season. You just never know when he will do something goofy. I don't trust him. He is admittedly learning on the job. I don't have much faith on the coach and still think he will cost the team sometime this season.
Note" Hardly anyone agreed with Pederson's terrible decision. Pederson later said he consulted his analytics guy in the booth for that decision. First, why even consult a nerdy, geeky guy like that? Use basic common sense! One doesn't have to be a head football coach or even a stupid analytics guy ( was Matt Klentak in the booth?) to know it was a bad play-call. Listen to the fans!
Some young guy form Bleeding Green Nation who was on the WIP Morning Show today agreed with Pederson. Typical millennial who thinks analytics are cool.
* LaGarrette Blount run like man on fire yesterday, not only scoring twice on short runs near the goal, but slashing the Giants' defense in the first half. He looked like a man on a mission. Strange, he doesn't touch the ball last week in Kansas City but is the featured runner yesterday against the Giants?
Hopefully Pederson gets the idea and continues to use the ground game. It opens up the pass game, controls the clock and gives the defense a pest, especially on a brutally hot afternoon like Sunday.
* The Philly offense, despite scoring 27 points, still isn't clicking on all cylinders. Not much down the field. The dink-and -dunk West Coast offense. Sometimes you gotta takes shots over the top to keep the opposing defense honest.
Zach Ertz remains a mystery. He caught an easy touchdown pass, but also dropped one and had a crucial fumble in the second half which helped the new York comeback.
Ertz will hopefully have a break-out season, a Pro Bowl year. He seems to be Wentz' favorite target, his security blanket over the middle and in the slot. I won't kill Ertz. Everyone fumbles now and then, even in big situations. I have more faith in Ertz than I do in Pederson.
* What the hell is wrong with Odell Beckham Jr.? He's a great player and caught two incredible touchdown passes yesterday. But Beckham Jr. lived up to his reputation as an immature punk when, after scoring his first TD, he crawled on the ground at the back of the end zone, lifted his right leg and pretended to pee like a dog.
Who even plans something as classless and vulgar as that? He got an unsportsmanlike penalty for the act; hopefully he gets fined by the league as well.
I would love him to catch passes for the Eagles. He's got incredible talent, speed and makes circus catches like no other receiver. But Beckham Jr. has got to be an embarrassment for an otherwise classy Giants organization.
* So much went into Jake Elliot's last-second 51-yard field goal to win the game. It was the longest field goal ever at the steamy Linc. It was the longest field goal in Eagles history period. And it won a division home game vs your arch-rival.
The New York punter, Brad Wing, shanked a punt just before the last drive. The 24-yard punt gave Wentz and the offense a chance to even get close enough to try a long, miracle FG. A normal punt and it never happens.
The Philly clock operator gave the Birds one second to try the winning field goal Twice the Linc clock operator gave the Birds a break. Home field advantage!
The kick itself...Elliot had made and missed long field goals earlier in the game. For Pederson to say in his press conference that he "knew" Elliot would make that kick was ridiculous.
Like the movie "Rudy", Elliot was mobbed and carried off the field by Eagle players. You gotta think the rest of the season will tell Elliot's fate with the team. Caleb Sturgis is an OK kicker, but if he loses his job, Wally Pip-like by injury, I wouldn't be too depressed. Sturgis is no Morton Andersen. So, Elliot will either stay with the team and become a David Akers guy for the next 10 years, or he will fade into Eagles' history, always remembered, the answer to a great trivia question down the road.
Beckham Jr. was lurking in the end zone, hoping for a chance to run back the short field goal attempt. I wonder what he was thinking as the ball went over the crossbar with a few feet to spare? Beckham Jr. can jump- did he have a chance to knock the ball away?.
* The thrilling victory may have come with a steep price: at least 3 Eagles came out of the hot, sweaty game with significant injuries. RB Darren Sproles reported has a broken right arm. More details due today, but count him out for maybe 6-8 weeks; DT Fletcher Cox torn a calf muscle. Will he be week-to-week/ And LB Jordan Hicks suffered some sort of unspecified leg injury. All would be costly if lost any amount of time.
* So, what's the bottom line/ Give the Eagles credit for coming back twice in the 4th quarter. yes, they blew a big lead when they dominated all day and seemed to have the Giants down and out. but they did come back, and Wentz did engineer a game-winning drive at tithe end, something rare.
The Birds are 2-1. winning their home opener in front of a crazed crowd. They are 2-0 in the NFC East, which is big. If they had to win 2 out of the first 3 games, winning the pair of division games was the way to go.
They travel to Los Angeles next Sunday to face the 0-3 Chargers. Could it be a trap game? Philly coming off of n emotional win? Travelling across the country to play a struggling Charger team that can score points, led by the always- dangerous QB Phillip Rivers. Don't the Chargers have to finally win in LA sooner or later?
Meanwhile, the Giants, despite playing hard, are 0-3 and have to be emotionally drained The have games with Tampa Bay, Seattle and Denver on the horizon. Stick a fork in 'em, they are cooked.
Elsewhere....
* They must've shown that stupid Hynda commercial where a driver sings Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline" at least 5 times during the game. I hate it with a passion, so pre-conceived and not real. Typical of most car ads and commercials in general. However, a clever and funny ad was the Geiko one ( their commercials are generally funny) where the guy was playing a "triangle solo" in an orchestra, withering on the floor like Chuck Berry doing a guitar solo.
* I finally got a chanc eto catch Tony Romo doing the Green Bay- Cincinnati game on CBS, and, as much as I hate to admit it, he was really good. Talks to much, but he has a lot of information and seems refreshingly enthusiastic about what he is watching.
For instance, He pointed out that if a team in a two-minute drill has time-outs to use, always use one around the one minute mark. It comes down to math, Romo explained, and how many plays you can get off in a minute. You never want to not have enough time, he reasoned. And he's right.
I thought another Dallas quarterback,Troy Aiken, was a good color guy, but after listening to Romo, I have to begrudgingly say that he may be the best analyst out there right now.
* I barely survived another week in Glen Macnow's Last Fan Standing football pool, as the Packers escaped at home over a feisty Bengals team. It was a week of upsets, with teams like the Bears, redskins, Jets and Titans all winning ( I did predict the Washington and Chicago victories), so the players should be weeded out a bit. The upsets could've been even bigger if the Patriots didn't survive in New England at the end vs the Texans.
My complete NFL week 3 wrap-up will appear in the blog tomorrow. Tonight it's the Cowboys visiting the Cardinals in Monday Night football. I say Arizona wins, leaving the Eagles tied for the lead in NFC East with Washington, both at 2-1. Technically, the Birds would be ahead, having already beaten the 'Skins.
Sunday, September 24, 2017
IN MY LIFE- ATLANTIC CITY
I visited Atlantic City yesterday for the first time in a good 20 years. My family and I used to prowl AC frequently in the1980s, playing the casinos, seeing shows and enjoying the Boardwalk.
Seeing the city on Saturday was both happy and sad. I relived a lot of fond memories as me and my girlfriend strolled the boards, taking in the Atlantic Ocean on a warm, humid afternoon. It was nice seeing familiar places yet somewhat sad to see what AC has become.
Getting of the AC Expressway, the first thing I noticed was no "Trump" signs- no more Taj Mahal or Trump Plaza. A truly different Atlantic City form 30 years earlier.
I always thought so much more could be done with Atlantic City other than the casinos. Nowadays, my family goes to Valley Forge if they wish casino gambling. The AC casinos are less now, and I fondly remembered the long-gone days of the Showboat and My late mom, my Uncle Henry Henry and Aunt Sue, all goen now, had so many good times at the old Sands and Claridge casinos. To see them gone, with not much taking their place even now, was depressing.
We stayed on the Boardwalk. since we had a show at the Tropicana later that night. So we didn't get to the marina area, where casinos like the Borgata and Harrah's sit. We strolled from the Trop past Caesar's and Ballys. The Boardwalk wasn't too crowded on a sunny afternoon.
The Boardwalk itself hasn't changed much. There are more sound snow, ads for meals and casinos, more music too, but with the same pizza shops, little clothing spots, and shops where one cna buy salt water taffy and fudge. Salt water taffy was big with Atlantic City when I was a kid. Not so much anymore. We only saw one store advertising salt water taffy in our limited journey.
Same diving seagulls. Same little gynies or trams rolling up and down the boards. A few people were on the beach, even some in the churning water, even though officials warned people to stay out of the water due to rough surf form once-Hurricane Jose.
Boardwalk Hall is the iconic symbol of AC, still old and majestic, a sight for sore eyes among all the glitz and glamour. I noticed more outdoor cafes on the boards, a millennial trend, even in Phoenixville.
Inside the Trop, we actually had a hard time finding a restaurant that only served American food. Immigrants- both visitors and employees- were everywhere. Cuisines catering to Mexican, Cuban and even Argentinian tastes abounded. We finally ventured back out to the Boardwalk and hit up nearby Chickie and Petes for sandwiches and crab fries.
The Trop itself is massive and somewhat confusing. From the parking garage we ended up near the casino and had to ask numerous workers how to get downstairs to the Boardwalk. Either they didn't know or didn't take the time to properly direct us to elevators that were hidden in corners of the casino.
Casinos have no clocks and few elevators. They want you to stay and spend your money.
We played Joker Poker machine and won a few bucks. It's always good to leave a winner. The tables were packed, especially after the show, all with high limits. Even the table games seemed to be different- less Blackjack and Roulette tables, more exotic and strange games.
Saturday night... well-dressed guys and ladies..alcohol flowing..waitresses flying everywhere..the whistles, beeps, and cheers near the slot machines. Same atmosphere as 30 years ago. But different..
No more quarters clanging into empty buckets. Now, instead of change coming out after a win, a paper ticket voucher is issued.. When cashing in, no more cashiers for coins- coin redemption is now ATMs that dole out cash in exchange for the vouchers.
Even the term "one-armed bandits" doesn't apply anymore.Players don't pull handles now- they push buttons.
Still lots of excitement and hopes of winning it big. Some things never change.
Going to and from the casino, there are more mall-like, high-end stores than before. In the past, one could walk into the casino from any entrance. Now, one has to wind through stores and stores to get to where you want to go. More ways to spend your money.
So, my visit to Atlantic City was a nice time, concert included. But it did bring back memories of the good 'ol days when life- and AC- was simpler. It also reminded me that AC still could be so much better with a clearer direction.Plenty of high-rise hotel rooms. But who will fill them?
Seeing the city on Saturday was both happy and sad. I relived a lot of fond memories as me and my girlfriend strolled the boards, taking in the Atlantic Ocean on a warm, humid afternoon. It was nice seeing familiar places yet somewhat sad to see what AC has become.
Getting of the AC Expressway, the first thing I noticed was no "Trump" signs- no more Taj Mahal or Trump Plaza. A truly different Atlantic City form 30 years earlier.
I always thought so much more could be done with Atlantic City other than the casinos. Nowadays, my family goes to Valley Forge if they wish casino gambling. The AC casinos are less now, and I fondly remembered the long-gone days of the Showboat and My late mom, my Uncle Henry Henry and Aunt Sue, all goen now, had so many good times at the old Sands and Claridge casinos. To see them gone, with not much taking their place even now, was depressing.
We stayed on the Boardwalk. since we had a show at the Tropicana later that night. So we didn't get to the marina area, where casinos like the Borgata and Harrah's sit. We strolled from the Trop past Caesar's and Ballys. The Boardwalk wasn't too crowded on a sunny afternoon.
The Boardwalk itself hasn't changed much. There are more sound snow, ads for meals and casinos, more music too, but with the same pizza shops, little clothing spots, and shops where one cna buy salt water taffy and fudge. Salt water taffy was big with Atlantic City when I was a kid. Not so much anymore. We only saw one store advertising salt water taffy in our limited journey.
Same diving seagulls. Same little gynies or trams rolling up and down the boards. A few people were on the beach, even some in the churning water, even though officials warned people to stay out of the water due to rough surf form once-Hurricane Jose.
Boardwalk Hall is the iconic symbol of AC, still old and majestic, a sight for sore eyes among all the glitz and glamour. I noticed more outdoor cafes on the boards, a millennial trend, even in Phoenixville.
Inside the Trop, we actually had a hard time finding a restaurant that only served American food. Immigrants- both visitors and employees- were everywhere. Cuisines catering to Mexican, Cuban and even Argentinian tastes abounded. We finally ventured back out to the Boardwalk and hit up nearby Chickie and Petes for sandwiches and crab fries.
The Trop itself is massive and somewhat confusing. From the parking garage we ended up near the casino and had to ask numerous workers how to get downstairs to the Boardwalk. Either they didn't know or didn't take the time to properly direct us to elevators that were hidden in corners of the casino.
Casinos have no clocks and few elevators. They want you to stay and spend your money.
We played Joker Poker machine and won a few bucks. It's always good to leave a winner. The tables were packed, especially after the show, all with high limits. Even the table games seemed to be different- less Blackjack and Roulette tables, more exotic and strange games.
Saturday night... well-dressed guys and ladies..alcohol flowing..waitresses flying everywhere..the whistles, beeps, and cheers near the slot machines. Same atmosphere as 30 years ago. But different..
No more quarters clanging into empty buckets. Now, instead of change coming out after a win, a paper ticket voucher is issued.. When cashing in, no more cashiers for coins- coin redemption is now ATMs that dole out cash in exchange for the vouchers.
Even the term "one-armed bandits" doesn't apply anymore.Players don't pull handles now- they push buttons.
Still lots of excitement and hopes of winning it big. Some things never change.
Going to and from the casino, there are more mall-like, high-end stores than before. In the past, one could walk into the casino from any entrance. Now, one has to wind through stores and stores to get to where you want to go. More ways to spend your money.
So, my visit to Atlantic City was a nice time, concert included. But it did bring back memories of the good 'ol days when life- and AC- was simpler. It also reminded me that AC still could be so much better with a clearer direction.Plenty of high-rise hotel rooms. But who will fill them?
REVIEW-RICK SPRINGFIELD AT TROPICANA, ATLANTIC CITY
Last night I saw 80s pop star Rick Springfield at the Tropicana Showroom in Atlantic City, NJ.
Predictably, the nearly sold-out Saturday night crowd was mostly female, age range 40-60. The Trop Showroom is a nice, sparkling yet not overwhelmingly huge venue. Perfect setting!
A pre-concert video, illustrating Springfield's long career as singer and soap opera actor ( he played Dr. Noah Drake on General Hospital) heightened the anticipation. The video screen was used to OK effect all through the show.
Springfield started out the concert with a=en energetic trio of "Light This Party Up", the Sammy Hager rocker "I've Done Everything For You" and "I Get Excited." it was all upbeat all night, with nary a ballad or dull moment.
Springfield was best when he stuck with his more familiar songs, especially those form the albums "Working Class Dog" and "Success Hasn't Spoiled Me Yet." To his credit, Rick hasn't stopped recording. His last album was "Rocket Science", a nice mix of rock, pop and even country. The singer told the audience he has a new record coming out soon, titled "The Snake King." He didn't preview any songs form the new album in AC.
Before kicking into high gear for the rest of the show, Springfield confided that he had torn a muscle in his arm and could not play the guitar ( he is an underrated guitar player). But "I can still move" he warned, and move he did, crossing the stage for a solid two hours. Springfield has always been an agile, athletic entertainer, not one to sit still.
A really good, guitar-driven cover of Katy Perry's "Roar"w as a highlight. Two more songs form "Rocket Science" followed- "Down" and "No One." And, because he had a "broken wing" due to his injury, he gave the crowd a snippet of Mister Mister's "Take These Broken Wings."
There was an oldies melody of hits, such as "Celebrate Youth", "Bop Til You Drop" and "What Kind Of Fool Am I", among others. "Love Is Alright Tonight" followed, another hit form Spriingfield's heydays in the 1980s.
"Don't Talk To Strangers", one of Springfield's signature songs, was an entertaining sing-along. Rick invited several kids form the audience upstage to sing along. Ut was a funny and cute break for the crowd and the singer to relish.
He finished with a rousing "Human Touch" and "Love Somebody", ( a song form the really awful movie "Hard To Hold"), while Springfield went out to meet fans in the front rows ( warning those overzealous fans not to forget about the injured arm).
And just when you thought he was done, Springfield came back with an encore of "Jessie's Girl" ( the one song most younger fans knew) and the energetic "Kristina."
All in all, a good time.
The Trop Showroom is a nice place, but like many venues, their accessible seating is a problem. The section is in the middle of the theater- no big deal- and the aisles are wide. But the accessible section is not elevated, so when the people in front stood up, you couldn't see much. Luckily, after the first few songs, people in the front didn't stand as much.
Venues don't get it. Either put the wheelchair section in the front or elevate it. The site is ADA compliant, but that doesn't make it right. Once again, these venues need input form people actually using chairs to let them know of the good and the bad in accessible seating.
I saw at least four other wheelchairs other than mine at the show last night. Getting out after the show was also a hassle, as there was only one aisle leading to and from the lower seats, so the crowd passed directly in front of the accessible section. Most of the wheelchair users sadly left during the encore to beat the crowd.
For a relatively new setting it was a bit of a disappointment..
Predictably, the nearly sold-out Saturday night crowd was mostly female, age range 40-60. The Trop Showroom is a nice, sparkling yet not overwhelmingly huge venue. Perfect setting!
A pre-concert video, illustrating Springfield's long career as singer and soap opera actor ( he played Dr. Noah Drake on General Hospital) heightened the anticipation. The video screen was used to OK effect all through the show.
Springfield started out the concert with a=en energetic trio of "Light This Party Up", the Sammy Hager rocker "I've Done Everything For You" and "I Get Excited." it was all upbeat all night, with nary a ballad or dull moment.
Springfield was best when he stuck with his more familiar songs, especially those form the albums "Working Class Dog" and "Success Hasn't Spoiled Me Yet." To his credit, Rick hasn't stopped recording. His last album was "Rocket Science", a nice mix of rock, pop and even country. The singer told the audience he has a new record coming out soon, titled "The Snake King." He didn't preview any songs form the new album in AC.
Before kicking into high gear for the rest of the show, Springfield confided that he had torn a muscle in his arm and could not play the guitar ( he is an underrated guitar player). But "I can still move" he warned, and move he did, crossing the stage for a solid two hours. Springfield has always been an agile, athletic entertainer, not one to sit still.
A really good, guitar-driven cover of Katy Perry's "Roar"w as a highlight. Two more songs form "Rocket Science" followed- "Down" and "No One." And, because he had a "broken wing" due to his injury, he gave the crowd a snippet of Mister Mister's "Take These Broken Wings."
There was an oldies melody of hits, such as "Celebrate Youth", "Bop Til You Drop" and "What Kind Of Fool Am I", among others. "Love Is Alright Tonight" followed, another hit form Spriingfield's heydays in the 1980s.
"Don't Talk To Strangers", one of Springfield's signature songs, was an entertaining sing-along. Rick invited several kids form the audience upstage to sing along. Ut was a funny and cute break for the crowd and the singer to relish.
He finished with a rousing "Human Touch" and "Love Somebody", ( a song form the really awful movie "Hard To Hold"), while Springfield went out to meet fans in the front rows ( warning those overzealous fans not to forget about the injured arm).
And just when you thought he was done, Springfield came back with an encore of "Jessie's Girl" ( the one song most younger fans knew) and the energetic "Kristina."
All in all, a good time.
The Trop Showroom is a nice place, but like many venues, their accessible seating is a problem. The section is in the middle of the theater- no big deal- and the aisles are wide. But the accessible section is not elevated, so when the people in front stood up, you couldn't see much. Luckily, after the first few songs, people in the front didn't stand as much.
Venues don't get it. Either put the wheelchair section in the front or elevate it. The site is ADA compliant, but that doesn't make it right. Once again, these venues need input form people actually using chairs to let them know of the good and the bad in accessible seating.
I saw at least four other wheelchairs other than mine at the show last night. Getting out after the show was also a hassle, as there was only one aisle leading to and from the lower seats, so the crowd passed directly in front of the accessible section. Most of the wheelchair users sadly left during the encore to beat the crowd.
For a relatively new setting it was a bit of a disappointment..
Saturday, September 23, 2017
REVIEW- STONGER
Movie Review: Stronger *** 1/2 ( out of ****)
Last night i saw the new movie called "Stronger". starring Jake Gyllenhaal. I want you to see the film, so I won't give away plot or specific details, but I will touch on highlights.
Briefly, the movie is about Jeff Baunam, one of the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing a few years ago. He happened to be standing next to the bomb, saw the bomber, and lost both of his legs below the knee from the explosion.
The story is about Jeff's life beyond the blast- his long rehab; adjusting to life as a suddenly and newly disabled person; and his happy and sad times with a loving but overbearing family and confused, caring girlfriend.
* There are many funny moments in the movie, including a scene of Jeff driving a car, with his brother working the gas pedal and brakes.
* Other than the obvious of learning to walk with prosthetic limbs and dealing with a changing lifestyle, the film touches on the little but important aspects to his life- things like the inaccessibility of his apartment ( the doorways are too narrow for his wheelchair to fit through; a flight of stairs to navigate with the wheelchair; his bathroom, especially his tub, being confining. The struggle is tough enough without the environment leading to the challenge. I was a little surprised that , while Jeff was in the hospital, modifications weren't made to his apartment.
* The girlfriends' situation is interesting. She feels guilty regarding the bombing, yet, after repeatedly breaking up with Jeff in the past, she feels almost obligated to become his caretaker. Is she more girlfriend or nurse?
* Jeff's family is colorful and animated, maybe too much so, but they are supportive, loving and entertaining. Stringer is not a family film or a movie kids should see, mostly because of the strong language.
* Interesting that the media want to interview Jeff ( as does the FBI, since Jeff saw the bomber), but with each interview, Jeff is forced to recall and relive the tragic events that fateful day. Jeff also has a dilemma about being a "hero". Is he a hero just because he was unlucky enough to be in the wrong place at the wrong time? So many people cheer him at Boston sports events- how does Jeff handle it?
* I could relate to a lot of things in the movie. The daily pain, the challenge of just getting up every day, knowing what is ahead, the daily, rigorous routine of dressing, transporting and getting through life.
The limited use of music is good. The acting separates the story from sinking into a melodrama-like TV movie inspirational film. There are many intense scenes of frustration and tears. The scene where Jeff crawls through hi parking lot to his front door is painful to watch- but you watch because it's powerful stuff.
There are scenes that are hazy and out of focus. The first time Jeff has his bandages changed in the hospital after the amputations, he is afraid to look and so are we, so his legs are kept in the distance, fuzzy yet apparent. The pace of the film never really drags. The dialogue is often short and realistic, not preachy and syrupy.
Jake Gyllenhaal should at least be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor. Actors portraying people with disabilities often win Oscars ( John Hurt in The Elephant Man and Daniel Day-Lewis in My Left Foot), so I wouldn't be surprised if Jake wins some awards.
Hopefully the film is seen. It's getting much-deserved positive reviews ( 89% on Rotten Tomatoes). Summer is over and the adult movies are coming out for the fall. Hopefully word of mouth will draw more movie-goers from slick action like The Kingsmen or comic book, superhero crap.
I can't say enough about Stronger. The performances are terrific and the movie itself is emotionally strong. Is it manipulative at times? Sure. But even the ending is emotional yet not maudlin. It strikes of hope, which makes me smile as I think about Stronger.
Last night i saw the new movie called "Stronger". starring Jake Gyllenhaal. I want you to see the film, so I won't give away plot or specific details, but I will touch on highlights.
Briefly, the movie is about Jeff Baunam, one of the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing a few years ago. He happened to be standing next to the bomb, saw the bomber, and lost both of his legs below the knee from the explosion.
The story is about Jeff's life beyond the blast- his long rehab; adjusting to life as a suddenly and newly disabled person; and his happy and sad times with a loving but overbearing family and confused, caring girlfriend.
* There are many funny moments in the movie, including a scene of Jeff driving a car, with his brother working the gas pedal and brakes.
* Other than the obvious of learning to walk with prosthetic limbs and dealing with a changing lifestyle, the film touches on the little but important aspects to his life- things like the inaccessibility of his apartment ( the doorways are too narrow for his wheelchair to fit through; a flight of stairs to navigate with the wheelchair; his bathroom, especially his tub, being confining. The struggle is tough enough without the environment leading to the challenge. I was a little surprised that , while Jeff was in the hospital, modifications weren't made to his apartment.
* The girlfriends' situation is interesting. She feels guilty regarding the bombing, yet, after repeatedly breaking up with Jeff in the past, she feels almost obligated to become his caretaker. Is she more girlfriend or nurse?
* Jeff's family is colorful and animated, maybe too much so, but they are supportive, loving and entertaining. Stringer is not a family film or a movie kids should see, mostly because of the strong language.
* Interesting that the media want to interview Jeff ( as does the FBI, since Jeff saw the bomber), but with each interview, Jeff is forced to recall and relive the tragic events that fateful day. Jeff also has a dilemma about being a "hero". Is he a hero just because he was unlucky enough to be in the wrong place at the wrong time? So many people cheer him at Boston sports events- how does Jeff handle it?
* I could relate to a lot of things in the movie. The daily pain, the challenge of just getting up every day, knowing what is ahead, the daily, rigorous routine of dressing, transporting and getting through life.
The limited use of music is good. The acting separates the story from sinking into a melodrama-like TV movie inspirational film. There are many intense scenes of frustration and tears. The scene where Jeff crawls through hi parking lot to his front door is painful to watch- but you watch because it's powerful stuff.
There are scenes that are hazy and out of focus. The first time Jeff has his bandages changed in the hospital after the amputations, he is afraid to look and so are we, so his legs are kept in the distance, fuzzy yet apparent. The pace of the film never really drags. The dialogue is often short and realistic, not preachy and syrupy.
Jake Gyllenhaal should at least be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor. Actors portraying people with disabilities often win Oscars ( John Hurt in The Elephant Man and Daniel Day-Lewis in My Left Foot), so I wouldn't be surprised if Jake wins some awards.
Hopefully the film is seen. It's getting much-deserved positive reviews ( 89% on Rotten Tomatoes). Summer is over and the adult movies are coming out for the fall. Hopefully word of mouth will draw more movie-goers from slick action like The Kingsmen or comic book, superhero crap.
I can't say enough about Stronger. The performances are terrific and the movie itself is emotionally strong. Is it manipulative at times? Sure. But even the ending is emotional yet not maudlin. It strikes of hope, which makes me smile as I think about Stronger.
Friday, September 22, 2017
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER
* As the Phillies season winds down to a mere nine games to go, I'm thinking Manager Pete Mackanin will be back in 2018. I would've never thought so in the spring. I also never imagined the team would avoid losing less than 100 games this season, but unless they totally collapse and lose 8 of their final 9 games, they will do just that.
Mackain is signed through next year. The Phils' organization hates to pay-off players or coaches. The team has played better since the all-star break, playing nearly .500 ball. And I think the front office will want to see how Mackanin handles the young prospects on the club now.
Despite the recent improvement, thanks in large part to Rhys Hoskins, Nick Williams and co., this is still abad baseball team, 30 games out of first place. Losing over 90 games is still an embarrassment. Hopefully the front office doesn't look at the last few months as fool's gold and don't make changes.
Columnist Marcus Hayes had yet another ridiculous article in the paper yesterday. He basically wrote that the Phillies should not trade anyone during the off-season. Keep Joseph, Franco, Hernandez and whomever else may be in competition for jobs in 2018 by the prospects. Keep guys like Joseph, who Hayes points out are still young and "entering their prime" as bench players. The more depth, the better.
Problem is, if Joseph and Franco really are entering their prime seasons, why would they be happy sitting on the bench and being platoon players at best? Wouldn't it be fair to them to trade them to teams where they could play full-time, and in the process, help the Phils with needed pitching?
Hayes incorrectly states that all Joseph would bring back are marginal, minor league hopefuls, such as McKenzie Mills, whom the Phillies acquired earlier this season form the Nationals for Howie Kendrick.Joseph has 22 home runs so far, and 70 RBIs. Why wouldn't he command a better-than-average pitcher in return?
Back to Mackanin. I thought he was on his last leg and Lehigh Valley skipper Dusty Warthen would take over, especially since Warthen managed a lot of the kids who are currently in Philadelphia. He still may get the job, as the organization may feel it needs a fresh approach. But I have a feeling that Mackanin will get at least one more summer to prove he's got what it takes to lead this core to contention and beyond.
If Mackanin does stay, he better agree to let his coaches go, especially McClure, Stairs, Samuel and Morandini. You don't want an inept pitching coach like McClure messing up the heads of the young staff. Same way with the hitters.It's obvious that Franco didn't listen to Stairs form spring training on. Maybe Franco will never listen to any hitting coach, but he's too young and has got too much talent not to try a different approach and a different voice.
So, even with all the turmoil in 2017, I believe more than ever that Mackanin will be in charge as the players head to Clearwater in February.
* The April 17th game next spring between the host Oakland A's and the visiting Chicago White Sox will be free of charge to all fans. The A's are celebrating the 50th year they are playing in old Oakland Coliseum. It's not like the A's are packing them in anyway, and will lose a ton of money with this promotion. Still, it's a nice thing to do for Oakland fans.
* There have been more home runs hit this season than in any other season in the history of baseball. Alex Gordon hit the tie-breaking homer the other night. Baseball predicts over 6,000 home runs will be hit this season when all is said and done. Are the balls juiced again? Is the pitching that bad? Or are hitters just bigger and strong than ever? Probably a little of both. Chicks dig the long ball, as they say, so players are also thinking more home runs then ever. It's capped-off by Miami Marlins slugger Giancarlos Stanton, who has 56 homers and counting.The Dodgers' Cody Bellinger broke the rookie record for homers with 38 so far. And Yankee Aaron Judge has 45 and going up. it makes for more exciting baseball. You just hope that steroids or some other kind of outside influence isn't contributing to rejuvenation of the long ball.
* The countdown is on to Eagles-Giants kick-off this Sunday at 1:00 from the Linc. More so-called "experts" are warning against New York being a "desperate" team, not wanting to go 0-3 and drop two division games this early in the season.
I agree- Eagles vs. Giants games are usually close, hard-fought contests. Turnovers, as always, will be key. I also agree that New York needs this game badly. It's early, but going down 0-3 would just about doom the g-men.
But this is the Eagles' home opener. The fans will be wild, on a muggy, hot summer-like afternoon in South Philly. It's the Eagles chance to stick a fork in New York, to give them one less opponent to worry about, and also to go 2-1 in their own right, with winnable games against the Chargers and Cardinals on the horizon.
Desperation isn't going to help the Giants' porous offensive line withstand the onslaught of the Eagles' ferocious pass rush. Let's look at the game realistically- the Birds won at Washington ( not an easy task) and played toe-to-toe with a good Kansas City team, with 10 days rest and coming off the momentum of an upset win in New England, playing at loud Arrowhead Stadium, one of the toughest places to place in all of the NFL.
Meanwhile, the Giants only scored 3 points in an opening night loss at Dallas, and played woefully against a Lions club in the Meadowlands.
OK< maybe the Eagles could lose on Sunday and still have a fine season ( both the Redskins and Cowboys have tough games as well). But the Eagles could make things so much easier on themselves with a victory.
A defeat, and one would have to seriously question if coach Doug Pederson has what it takes in big games to guide the Birds to the playoffs. If he can't win on Sunday- home opener against a division rival who is struggling- then when will he win?
Plus, the next time the Eagles see the giants, it will be in New York ni mid-December, coming off two West Coast games. If the Giants are still in contention that could be a tough game to win on the road. If the giants have packed it in by then, Philly could have an easier time up the Jersey turnpike.
I still say Eagles 20 Giants 17. The Birds could force turnovers, sack Eli Manning a half-dozen times, run the ball effectively, Carson Wentz could throw for 300 yards, and they score could be a rout, something like 38- 10. I just think it will be a typical Eagle-Giant nail-biter into the 4th quarter on Sunday.
Mackain is signed through next year. The Phils' organization hates to pay-off players or coaches. The team has played better since the all-star break, playing nearly .500 ball. And I think the front office will want to see how Mackanin handles the young prospects on the club now.
Despite the recent improvement, thanks in large part to Rhys Hoskins, Nick Williams and co., this is still abad baseball team, 30 games out of first place. Losing over 90 games is still an embarrassment. Hopefully the front office doesn't look at the last few months as fool's gold and don't make changes.
Columnist Marcus Hayes had yet another ridiculous article in the paper yesterday. He basically wrote that the Phillies should not trade anyone during the off-season. Keep Joseph, Franco, Hernandez and whomever else may be in competition for jobs in 2018 by the prospects. Keep guys like Joseph, who Hayes points out are still young and "entering their prime" as bench players. The more depth, the better.
Problem is, if Joseph and Franco really are entering their prime seasons, why would they be happy sitting on the bench and being platoon players at best? Wouldn't it be fair to them to trade them to teams where they could play full-time, and in the process, help the Phils with needed pitching?
Hayes incorrectly states that all Joseph would bring back are marginal, minor league hopefuls, such as McKenzie Mills, whom the Phillies acquired earlier this season form the Nationals for Howie Kendrick.Joseph has 22 home runs so far, and 70 RBIs. Why wouldn't he command a better-than-average pitcher in return?
Back to Mackanin. I thought he was on his last leg and Lehigh Valley skipper Dusty Warthen would take over, especially since Warthen managed a lot of the kids who are currently in Philadelphia. He still may get the job, as the organization may feel it needs a fresh approach. But I have a feeling that Mackanin will get at least one more summer to prove he's got what it takes to lead this core to contention and beyond.
If Mackanin does stay, he better agree to let his coaches go, especially McClure, Stairs, Samuel and Morandini. You don't want an inept pitching coach like McClure messing up the heads of the young staff. Same way with the hitters.It's obvious that Franco didn't listen to Stairs form spring training on. Maybe Franco will never listen to any hitting coach, but he's too young and has got too much talent not to try a different approach and a different voice.
So, even with all the turmoil in 2017, I believe more than ever that Mackanin will be in charge as the players head to Clearwater in February.
* The April 17th game next spring between the host Oakland A's and the visiting Chicago White Sox will be free of charge to all fans. The A's are celebrating the 50th year they are playing in old Oakland Coliseum. It's not like the A's are packing them in anyway, and will lose a ton of money with this promotion. Still, it's a nice thing to do for Oakland fans.
* There have been more home runs hit this season than in any other season in the history of baseball. Alex Gordon hit the tie-breaking homer the other night. Baseball predicts over 6,000 home runs will be hit this season when all is said and done. Are the balls juiced again? Is the pitching that bad? Or are hitters just bigger and strong than ever? Probably a little of both. Chicks dig the long ball, as they say, so players are also thinking more home runs then ever. It's capped-off by Miami Marlins slugger Giancarlos Stanton, who has 56 homers and counting.The Dodgers' Cody Bellinger broke the rookie record for homers with 38 so far. And Yankee Aaron Judge has 45 and going up. it makes for more exciting baseball. You just hope that steroids or some other kind of outside influence isn't contributing to rejuvenation of the long ball.
* The countdown is on to Eagles-Giants kick-off this Sunday at 1:00 from the Linc. More so-called "experts" are warning against New York being a "desperate" team, not wanting to go 0-3 and drop two division games this early in the season.
I agree- Eagles vs. Giants games are usually close, hard-fought contests. Turnovers, as always, will be key. I also agree that New York needs this game badly. It's early, but going down 0-3 would just about doom the g-men.
But this is the Eagles' home opener. The fans will be wild, on a muggy, hot summer-like afternoon in South Philly. It's the Eagles chance to stick a fork in New York, to give them one less opponent to worry about, and also to go 2-1 in their own right, with winnable games against the Chargers and Cardinals on the horizon.
Desperation isn't going to help the Giants' porous offensive line withstand the onslaught of the Eagles' ferocious pass rush. Let's look at the game realistically- the Birds won at Washington ( not an easy task) and played toe-to-toe with a good Kansas City team, with 10 days rest and coming off the momentum of an upset win in New England, playing at loud Arrowhead Stadium, one of the toughest places to place in all of the NFL.
Meanwhile, the Giants only scored 3 points in an opening night loss at Dallas, and played woefully against a Lions club in the Meadowlands.
OK< maybe the Eagles could lose on Sunday and still have a fine season ( both the Redskins and Cowboys have tough games as well). But the Eagles could make things so much easier on themselves with a victory.
A defeat, and one would have to seriously question if coach Doug Pederson has what it takes in big games to guide the Birds to the playoffs. If he can't win on Sunday- home opener against a division rival who is struggling- then when will he win?
Plus, the next time the Eagles see the giants, it will be in New York ni mid-December, coming off two West Coast games. If the Giants are still in contention that could be a tough game to win on the road. If the giants have packed it in by then, Philly could have an easier time up the Jersey turnpike.
I still say Eagles 20 Giants 17. The Birds could force turnovers, sack Eli Manning a half-dozen times, run the ball effectively, Carson Wentz could throw for 300 yards, and they score could be a rout, something like 38- 10. I just think it will be a typical Eagle-Giant nail-biter into the 4th quarter on Sunday.
Thursday, September 21, 2017
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ- SCIENCE & NATURE
SCIENCE & NATURE is the topic today..
1. How many pairs of ribs does a human have?
2. Which of red, green and yellow didn't appear on the first traffic light?
3. How many reams of paper are there in a bundle?
4. Where on Earth does each calendar day begin?
5. What two colors are you blind to if you suffer from protanopia?
6. How many miles per hour does the wind have to blow to sway the Washington Monument an eighth of an inch?
7. Which shoe, according to the Goodyear rubber company, usually wears out first- the left or the right?
8. What was Boeing's first commercial jet airliner?
9. What's the term for an adult pig?
10. What color is malachite?
ANSWERS-
1. Twelve
2. Yellow
3. Two
4.The international dateline
5. Green and red
6. Thirty
7. The right
8. 707
9. Boar
10. Green
1. How many pairs of ribs does a human have?
2. Which of red, green and yellow didn't appear on the first traffic light?
3. How many reams of paper are there in a bundle?
4. Where on Earth does each calendar day begin?
5. What two colors are you blind to if you suffer from protanopia?
6. How many miles per hour does the wind have to blow to sway the Washington Monument an eighth of an inch?
7. Which shoe, according to the Goodyear rubber company, usually wears out first- the left or the right?
8. What was Boeing's first commercial jet airliner?
9. What's the term for an adult pig?
10. What color is malachite?
ANSWERS-
1. Twelve
2. Yellow
3. Two
4.The international dateline
5. Green and red
6. Thirty
7. The right
8. 707
9. Boar
10. Green
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER
PHILLIES-
* Aaron Altherr hit his third homer in three days as the Phils beat the LA Dodgers again, 7-5. This team is so different compared to earlier in the season. Why? I think it's the burst of energy the kids have given the line-up. Offensively, they are more explosive. Their youth and enthusiasm are making the older players better. Competition is always good. Guys are fighting for their jobs as the team is winning in the process.
Take Tommy Joseph for instance. He didn't play for several days. He was back in the line-up last night and smashed a double and home run. Franco has played better recently. Is it because he feels the heat from rookie J.P. Crawford?
Rhys Hoskins, when he is not hitting home runs, continues to get on base. In four at-bats Tuesday night he saw a total of 30 pitches. Other players have learned to be selective. Take a walk, don't swing at balls in the dirt. It's OK not to swing too hard.
Back to Altherr. I wrote back in spring training that I thought Altherr would have a big year. The injury-bug bit him again this summer, otherwise he hasn't stopped hitting the ball since way back in Clearwater. He has 19 home runs, plays a smooth outfield and can run. He has established himself as a building block for the future.
* One position to check out this off-season will be catcher. Interesting situation. Jorge Alfaro has raw power, but is lacking defensively. He cannot be sent back to the minors . Cameron Rupp is the veteran who didn't have the break-out year the club hoped for. Instead, the pitching coach questioned the way Rupp calls a game. Andrew Knapp is a switch-hitter who has power as well. On Wednesday night Knapp had a problem behind the plate with wild pitches and passed balls.
I think the team will go with a combo of Alfaro and Knapp in 2018. Teams need solid catchers like Rupp. The Phils should have takers for a Rupp trade.
The Phils can sweep the series with Los Angeles today at 1:00. They embark on their final road series this weekend at Atlanta before returning home to close the season with Washington and the Mets.
EAGLES-
* Chance Womack looks like he will be the starter at guard on Sunday vs the Giants. Anyone would be an improvement over the struggling Issac Seumalo. Maybe Issac can play center down the road instead of Jason Kelce.
Yes, the Giants will be a desperate team on Sunday. Losing and dropping to 0-3 would just about bury the New Yorkers. It's going to be closer than the 6-point line ( which has gone up since their Monday night loss to the Lions).
Desperation can't protect Eli Manning all afternoon. I still say Eagles 20 Giants 17.
SIXERS-
The Sixers are only a week away from the opening of training camp. Joel Embiid still isn't playing 5-on-5 basketball, even six months after knee surgery.
I'm getting the feeling either the Sixers are ultra-conservative medically or Embiid is always going to be fragile and injury-prone. Six months after a supposed minor procedure and he still can't play? Plus Sixers management has said he may not be ready for camp-or even the first game?
Yet there are 14,000 season tickets that were sold.
We know that Sixers management hasn't always been honest with the fans. We know the owner is a con artist who really doesn't care or know basketball but is in it for the money.
Seeing is believing, and I won't get excited about the 76'ers until I see Embiid, Simmons and Fultz all on the court together. Only when there are no minute-restrictions, or limitations regarding back-to-back games will I feel comfortable about the Sixers' prospects this upcoming season.
ALL SPORTS-
* Interesting to note: The Cleveland Indians are only a game behind the Dodgers for best overall record in baseball. Worthy to note, as the best record now secures home field advantage in the World Series. It's a shame that Arizona fell so far behind LA, a good 20 games back at one point. The Diamondbacks are now 8 1/2 games behind- too far back with few games to play.The D-Backs will notch of the wild card spots and should be a factor in the NL playoffs.
* Also, the Phillies are just 4 games in back of the Mets. Can the Phils catch New York with only 10 games left in the season? # of those games are with the Mets in Philly. Wouldn't that end 2017 on a positive note- climbing out of the cellar while your arch-rival sinks into the basement?
* Giancarlos Stanton hit his 56th home run on Wednesday. Will he reach 60 before the end of the season? He hits them in bunches, so I say yes. And if he's available in the off-season, do the Phillies try to deal for him? Again I say yes. Big contract, he's 27, one could argue he can't top this season and has reached his prime. But imagine the fear in the rest of the National League with Stanton and Hoskins hitting in the middle of the Phils' line-up.
Trade Franco, Herrera and Hernandez to Miami? Get back Stanton and Dee Gordon? Play Gordon at second. Move Scott Kingery to third base full-time. There's your infield; Hoskins, Gordon, Crawford or Galvis and Kingery. Stanton plays right field, as Altherr mans center and Nick Williams plays left.
* I've got Washington upsetting the Raiders at home on Sunday. The Redskins can't lose their first two home games. They need to keep the pace in NFC East. Oakland travels cross-country. At the very least, take the 'Skins and the points.
* Aaron Altherr hit his third homer in three days as the Phils beat the LA Dodgers again, 7-5. This team is so different compared to earlier in the season. Why? I think it's the burst of energy the kids have given the line-up. Offensively, they are more explosive. Their youth and enthusiasm are making the older players better. Competition is always good. Guys are fighting for their jobs as the team is winning in the process.
Take Tommy Joseph for instance. He didn't play for several days. He was back in the line-up last night and smashed a double and home run. Franco has played better recently. Is it because he feels the heat from rookie J.P. Crawford?
Rhys Hoskins, when he is not hitting home runs, continues to get on base. In four at-bats Tuesday night he saw a total of 30 pitches. Other players have learned to be selective. Take a walk, don't swing at balls in the dirt. It's OK not to swing too hard.
Back to Altherr. I wrote back in spring training that I thought Altherr would have a big year. The injury-bug bit him again this summer, otherwise he hasn't stopped hitting the ball since way back in Clearwater. He has 19 home runs, plays a smooth outfield and can run. He has established himself as a building block for the future.
* One position to check out this off-season will be catcher. Interesting situation. Jorge Alfaro has raw power, but is lacking defensively. He cannot be sent back to the minors . Cameron Rupp is the veteran who didn't have the break-out year the club hoped for. Instead, the pitching coach questioned the way Rupp calls a game. Andrew Knapp is a switch-hitter who has power as well. On Wednesday night Knapp had a problem behind the plate with wild pitches and passed balls.
I think the team will go with a combo of Alfaro and Knapp in 2018. Teams need solid catchers like Rupp. The Phils should have takers for a Rupp trade.
The Phils can sweep the series with Los Angeles today at 1:00. They embark on their final road series this weekend at Atlanta before returning home to close the season with Washington and the Mets.
EAGLES-
* Chance Womack looks like he will be the starter at guard on Sunday vs the Giants. Anyone would be an improvement over the struggling Issac Seumalo. Maybe Issac can play center down the road instead of Jason Kelce.
Yes, the Giants will be a desperate team on Sunday. Losing and dropping to 0-3 would just about bury the New Yorkers. It's going to be closer than the 6-point line ( which has gone up since their Monday night loss to the Lions).
Desperation can't protect Eli Manning all afternoon. I still say Eagles 20 Giants 17.
SIXERS-
The Sixers are only a week away from the opening of training camp. Joel Embiid still isn't playing 5-on-5 basketball, even six months after knee surgery.
I'm getting the feeling either the Sixers are ultra-conservative medically or Embiid is always going to be fragile and injury-prone. Six months after a supposed minor procedure and he still can't play? Plus Sixers management has said he may not be ready for camp-or even the first game?
Yet there are 14,000 season tickets that were sold.
We know that Sixers management hasn't always been honest with the fans. We know the owner is a con artist who really doesn't care or know basketball but is in it for the money.
Seeing is believing, and I won't get excited about the 76'ers until I see Embiid, Simmons and Fultz all on the court together. Only when there are no minute-restrictions, or limitations regarding back-to-back games will I feel comfortable about the Sixers' prospects this upcoming season.
ALL SPORTS-
* Interesting to note: The Cleveland Indians are only a game behind the Dodgers for best overall record in baseball. Worthy to note, as the best record now secures home field advantage in the World Series. It's a shame that Arizona fell so far behind LA, a good 20 games back at one point. The Diamondbacks are now 8 1/2 games behind- too far back with few games to play.The D-Backs will notch of the wild card spots and should be a factor in the NL playoffs.
* Also, the Phillies are just 4 games in back of the Mets. Can the Phils catch New York with only 10 games left in the season? # of those games are with the Mets in Philly. Wouldn't that end 2017 on a positive note- climbing out of the cellar while your arch-rival sinks into the basement?
* Giancarlos Stanton hit his 56th home run on Wednesday. Will he reach 60 before the end of the season? He hits them in bunches, so I say yes. And if he's available in the off-season, do the Phillies try to deal for him? Again I say yes. Big contract, he's 27, one could argue he can't top this season and has reached his prime. But imagine the fear in the rest of the National League with Stanton and Hoskins hitting in the middle of the Phils' line-up.
Trade Franco, Herrera and Hernandez to Miami? Get back Stanton and Dee Gordon? Play Gordon at second. Move Scott Kingery to third base full-time. There's your infield; Hoskins, Gordon, Crawford or Galvis and Kingery. Stanton plays right field, as Altherr mans center and Nick Williams plays left.
* I've got Washington upsetting the Raiders at home on Sunday. The Redskins can't lose their first two home games. They need to keep the pace in NFC East. Oakland travels cross-country. At the very least, take the 'Skins and the points.
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
OLD-SCHOOL WHEELING- DISABLED PARENTS CAN BE STRONG ROLE MODELS
I wrote this article for The Phoenix, published on May 11, 2007
Disabled Parents can be Strong Role Models Carrie Ann Lucas gets around in a wheelchair. She breathes with the aid of a ventilator. She cannot hear and can only see at a close range.
Each morning begins about 4 a.m. with newspapers and e-mails. At 5:30, she wakes her three disabled daughters. With help from a nurse aide, she dresses the girls and feeds them. They cannot feed themselves. They must use feeding tubes to survive. By 7:10, the kids are on their school buses.
Lucas cherishes these mornings, tough as they are, because she knows how hard it is to keep a family together.
She is one of a handful of attorneys in the country whose specialty is representing disabled parents like herself. Her mission is making sure they get the same chance as everyone else to be moms and dads.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 15 percent of all parents with children in the household have some disability. The government is far more likely try to take children away from these parents.
“My clients fought and fought” to raise their children, says Lucas, 35.
She can relate to her clients so well
. Among those she has worked with was a deaf woman in suburban Denver, Colorado (where Lucas lives and works), whose two toddlers were taken away and put up for adoption after social workers deemed her unfit as a mother because she could not hear her children’s cries for help
. Another client, a blind woman, was refused treatment at a fertility clinic because the staff there did not think she could be a proper mother. She was asked things like, “How are you going to drive your kid to soccer practice?”
Still, Lucas does admit that some disabled people should not be parents. She admits that she is not the perfect parent. But just because one has a disability should not be a reason for someone automatically being disqualified from being a parent.
Carrie grew up wealthy in her youth, healthy too, playing basketball and running track. She went to college and studied sports medicine. Then she began developing unexplained bone tumors and excruciating muscle pain.
She was eventually diagnosed with a rare degenerative disease called central core disorder. She began using a wheelchair and lost her hearing.
Then, Heather entered her world
. Social workers had taken Heather from Lucas’ half-brother in Tennessee and placed her in foster care. When Lucas heard this, she wanted to adopt Heather, but Tennessee was skeptical Lucas would be a good parent. The caseworker made Lucas demonstrate repeatedly that she could care for the girl. One of the requirements was that Lucas prove she could lift Heather’s wheelchair into her rented van.
It was almost a year later when Tennessee finally allowed Lucas to adopt Heather and move her to Colorado.
Because one of Heather’s restraints in the chair was clearly uncomfortable, Lucas got rid of the straps - which landed her in more trouble with social workers in Colorado. Another worker reported Lucas for failing to cut her daughter’s hair, saying she had unrealistic high expectations for the child’s social life by letting her hair grow out.
The complaints, though resolved in her favor, were an indication of the scrutiny that disabled parents face
. But that didn’t stop Lucas from adopting two more disabled kids. Ariana’s biological parents didn’t want her, Lucas adopted her, but ten months later, the girl’s aunt and uncle suddenly decided they wanted custody.
As relatives, they had priority and Lucas lost custody. “Losing my kid was one of the worst things I’ve been through,” she said.
At the time, Lucas was working as a legal assistant at the Cross-Disability Coalition, where disabled parents sought help to hold on to their children. Even some of the group’s disabled executives and board members found themselves fighting for their rights as parents.
“We realized if that’s happening to us, really connected professionals, what’s happening to other people?” she wondered
. Eventually, Lucas enrolled in law school, learning Braille and reading lips at close range because by now, her vision had decreased so much that she was considered legally blind. Still she struggled on, especially to help others in situations similar to her own
. Lee Dancer, 39, feels lucky he found Lucas. The airport concession worker has an IQ of 73, and social services took away his newborn daughter. Sort of like a real-life “I Am Sam” story, but this wasn’t a movie.
After years of legal battling, the case is still ongoing. It is a heartbreaking case, which state officials admit, but also acknowledge that Dancer and the girl’s mother (who has a mild developmental disability) simply cannot parent the child.
But Lucas, who has taken on the case, disagrees. She sites that Dancer had no problems helping to raise a 13-year-old son from another relationship. “Every parent can improve,” Lucas states, “and his skills are adequate.”
Disabled parents can serve as strong role models. It’s why Lucas has gone out of her way to adopt disabled children.
“You can be whatever you want to be,” she often tells her children. She is living proof, despite her many challenges in life, this is so true.
Disabled Parents can be Strong Role Models Carrie Ann Lucas gets around in a wheelchair. She breathes with the aid of a ventilator. She cannot hear and can only see at a close range.
Each morning begins about 4 a.m. with newspapers and e-mails. At 5:30, she wakes her three disabled daughters. With help from a nurse aide, she dresses the girls and feeds them. They cannot feed themselves. They must use feeding tubes to survive. By 7:10, the kids are on their school buses.
Lucas cherishes these mornings, tough as they are, because she knows how hard it is to keep a family together.
She is one of a handful of attorneys in the country whose specialty is representing disabled parents like herself. Her mission is making sure they get the same chance as everyone else to be moms and dads.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 15 percent of all parents with children in the household have some disability. The government is far more likely try to take children away from these parents.
“My clients fought and fought” to raise their children, says Lucas, 35.
She can relate to her clients so well
. Among those she has worked with was a deaf woman in suburban Denver, Colorado (where Lucas lives and works), whose two toddlers were taken away and put up for adoption after social workers deemed her unfit as a mother because she could not hear her children’s cries for help
. Another client, a blind woman, was refused treatment at a fertility clinic because the staff there did not think she could be a proper mother. She was asked things like, “How are you going to drive your kid to soccer practice?”
Still, Lucas does admit that some disabled people should not be parents. She admits that she is not the perfect parent. But just because one has a disability should not be a reason for someone automatically being disqualified from being a parent.
Carrie grew up wealthy in her youth, healthy too, playing basketball and running track. She went to college and studied sports medicine. Then she began developing unexplained bone tumors and excruciating muscle pain.
She was eventually diagnosed with a rare degenerative disease called central core disorder. She began using a wheelchair and lost her hearing.
Then, Heather entered her world
. Social workers had taken Heather from Lucas’ half-brother in Tennessee and placed her in foster care. When Lucas heard this, she wanted to adopt Heather, but Tennessee was skeptical Lucas would be a good parent. The caseworker made Lucas demonstrate repeatedly that she could care for the girl. One of the requirements was that Lucas prove she could lift Heather’s wheelchair into her rented van.
It was almost a year later when Tennessee finally allowed Lucas to adopt Heather and move her to Colorado.
Because one of Heather’s restraints in the chair was clearly uncomfortable, Lucas got rid of the straps - which landed her in more trouble with social workers in Colorado. Another worker reported Lucas for failing to cut her daughter’s hair, saying she had unrealistic high expectations for the child’s social life by letting her hair grow out.
The complaints, though resolved in her favor, were an indication of the scrutiny that disabled parents face
. But that didn’t stop Lucas from adopting two more disabled kids. Ariana’s biological parents didn’t want her, Lucas adopted her, but ten months later, the girl’s aunt and uncle suddenly decided they wanted custody.
As relatives, they had priority and Lucas lost custody. “Losing my kid was one of the worst things I’ve been through,” she said.
At the time, Lucas was working as a legal assistant at the Cross-Disability Coalition, where disabled parents sought help to hold on to their children. Even some of the group’s disabled executives and board members found themselves fighting for their rights as parents.
“We realized if that’s happening to us, really connected professionals, what’s happening to other people?” she wondered
. Eventually, Lucas enrolled in law school, learning Braille and reading lips at close range because by now, her vision had decreased so much that she was considered legally blind. Still she struggled on, especially to help others in situations similar to her own
. Lee Dancer, 39, feels lucky he found Lucas. The airport concession worker has an IQ of 73, and social services took away his newborn daughter. Sort of like a real-life “I Am Sam” story, but this wasn’t a movie.
After years of legal battling, the case is still ongoing. It is a heartbreaking case, which state officials admit, but also acknowledge that Dancer and the girl’s mother (who has a mild developmental disability) simply cannot parent the child.
But Lucas, who has taken on the case, disagrees. She sites that Dancer had no problems helping to raise a 13-year-old son from another relationship. “Every parent can improve,” Lucas states, “and his skills are adequate.”
Disabled parents can serve as strong role models. It’s why Lucas has gone out of her way to adopt disabled children.
“You can be whatever you want to be,” she often tells her children. She is living proof, despite her many challenges in life, this is so true.
BACK TO SCHOOL QUIZ- ENTERTAINMENT
Today's quiz is all about ENTERTAINMENT..
1. What poet does Bob Dylan mention in his song Desolation Row?
2. Which of The Chipmunks wore glasses?
3. What TV show host died on October 13, 1974, in New York City at the age of 73?
4. What was Barney Fife's middle initial?
5. Which of The Carpenters was born first?
6. What soap opera debuted on ABC on April Fool's Day, 1963?
7. What was the first film to gross $70 million?
8. What TV quiz show left the air in 1975 to the tune of "We'll Meet Again"?
9. What TV network did Search for Tomorrow switch to in March, 1982?
10. What paino-slamming rocker was the only guest on the original American Bandstand to shun the lip-sync and perform live?
ANSWERS-
1. T.S. Elliot
2. Simon
3. Ed Sullivan
4. B.
5. Richard Carpenter
6. General Hospital
7. Gone with the Wind
8. Jeopardy
9. NBC
10. Jerry Lee Lewis
1. What poet does Bob Dylan mention in his song Desolation Row?
2. Which of The Chipmunks wore glasses?
3. What TV show host died on October 13, 1974, in New York City at the age of 73?
4. What was Barney Fife's middle initial?
5. Which of The Carpenters was born first?
6. What soap opera debuted on ABC on April Fool's Day, 1963?
7. What was the first film to gross $70 million?
8. What TV quiz show left the air in 1975 to the tune of "We'll Meet Again"?
9. What TV network did Search for Tomorrow switch to in March, 1982?
10. What paino-slamming rocker was the only guest on the original American Bandstand to shun the lip-sync and perform live?
ANSWERS-
1. T.S. Elliot
2. Simon
3. Ed Sullivan
4. B.
5. Richard Carpenter
6. General Hospital
7. Gone with the Wind
8. Jeopardy
9. NBC
10. Jerry Lee Lewis
THE PICK-WEEK 3- LAST FAN STANDING FOOTBALL POOL
I made it through Week 2 of the Last Fan Standing pool with Oakland's easy victory over the Jets. No major upsets yet this season. That's how it was last year. The Browns and Bears both kept losing, and most fans picked against these two bad teams all season. Eventually road-block games needed to weed-out players.
I thought about playing the Eagles this week. It's their home opener. The Giants suck. They have big-time offensive line problems. The Birds' strength is their pass rush. Bad combination for New York.
But it's a division game. The Eagles and Giants always seem to play close, hard-fought games. Plus the G-men may be a desperate team. They are 0-2. They don't want to start 0-3, with two division losses.
The Eagles could really put a crimp the the Giants' 2017 plans by knocking them off this Sunday. With Dallas having a tough road game in Arizona, and with Cowboy running back Zeke Elliot on the verge of being suspended for six games, Philly could get an early lead in the division. Washington has an equally tough game at home against the Raiders.
I'm going to pass on the Birds this week, and save them for later. My prediction is Eagles 20-17 over New York, but I don't like to play a rival-division game. Too much emotion involved.
Instead, I'm taking Green Bay at home vs. Cincinnati. The Packers are 9 1/2 point favorites on Sunday. The Bengals are 0-2, The Pack 1-1 after suffering a loss to Atlanta Sunday night.
Losing again to the Falcons in Atlanta is no disgrace. Green Bay needs to get back on the horse this week against a struggling Bengals club. Coach Marvin Lewis is on the hot seat. Andy Dalton & co. are not playing up to the potential they flashed in the past. Green Bay is ailing with injuries to WRs Nelson and Cobb, among others. But I think Green Bay has enough to beat Cincy at Lambeau Field.
I'd rather save Green Bay at home for later in the season when the bitter cold and snow will work to the Pack's advantage. But, looking ahead, I don't see a good spot, plus this seems like a pretty good bet to get me through another week of the pool.
I thought about playing the Eagles this week. It's their home opener. The Giants suck. They have big-time offensive line problems. The Birds' strength is their pass rush. Bad combination for New York.
But it's a division game. The Eagles and Giants always seem to play close, hard-fought games. Plus the G-men may be a desperate team. They are 0-2. They don't want to start 0-3, with two division losses.
The Eagles could really put a crimp the the Giants' 2017 plans by knocking them off this Sunday. With Dallas having a tough road game in Arizona, and with Cowboy running back Zeke Elliot on the verge of being suspended for six games, Philly could get an early lead in the division. Washington has an equally tough game at home against the Raiders.
I'm going to pass on the Birds this week, and save them for later. My prediction is Eagles 20-17 over New York, but I don't like to play a rival-division game. Too much emotion involved.
Instead, I'm taking Green Bay at home vs. Cincinnati. The Packers are 9 1/2 point favorites on Sunday. The Bengals are 0-2, The Pack 1-1 after suffering a loss to Atlanta Sunday night.
Losing again to the Falcons in Atlanta is no disgrace. Green Bay needs to get back on the horse this week against a struggling Bengals club. Coach Marvin Lewis is on the hot seat. Andy Dalton & co. are not playing up to the potential they flashed in the past. Green Bay is ailing with injuries to WRs Nelson and Cobb, among others. But I think Green Bay has enough to beat Cincy at Lambeau Field.
I'd rather save Green Bay at home for later in the season when the bitter cold and snow will work to the Pack's advantage. But, looking ahead, I don't see a good spot, plus this seems like a pretty good bet to get me through another week of the pool.
GRAND SLAMS
Phillies outfielder Aaron Altherr hit a grand slam the other night off Dodgers' great lefty pitcher Clayton Kershaw. it was the first time in Kershaws' brilliant career he has ever given up a grand slam home run. That got me to thinking about how special a grand slam is. Check out the following fun facts about "The Salami":
* Alex Rodriguez has the most career grand slams with 25. Lou Gehrig is second with 23. Willie McCovey has the National League record with 18 slams. McCovey also has the record of slams in consecutive seasons at 9.
* Cleveland Indians' third baseman Travis Hefner holds the record of hitting 5 grand slams before the all-star game in 2006. Sixto Lezcano has the only Opening Day walk-off grand slam. He did it on April 10, 1980. Roberto Clemente has the only walk-off inside-the -park grand slam in major league history, accomplishing the feat on July 25, 1956. He did it in spacious Forbes Field, the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates for many years.
* Four players have hit grand slams in their very first major league at-bat, including current Phillie Daniel Nava, who did it in 2011 while playing for the Red Sox.
* The "Ultimate Grand Slam" is a rare feat where a player hits a walk-off grand slam. Steve Pearce of the Toronto Blue Jays was the last major leaguer to do it, on July 30 2017.
* The Yankees are the only team to hit 3 grand slams in one game. No, not Ruth, Gehrig or Mantle, but Robinson Cano, Russell Martin and Curtis Granderson on August 25, 2011.
* Fernando Tatis of the St. Louis Cardinals is the only player in the history of baseball to hit two grand slams in one inning. He did it at Dodger Stadium on April 23, 1999.
* The only battery mates to each hit grand slams in the same game are San Francisco Giants' Buster Posey and Madison Bumgarner, accomplishing history on July 13, 2014.
* Major League Baseball's record for team grand slams in one day happened on June 3, 2017. Seven grand slams were hit on May 3rd last spring.
* The last grand slam in a World Series game happened last year when Addison Russell hit a slam for the Cubs against Cleveland on November 1, 2016.
* Tony Cloninger of the Atlanta Braves is the only pitcher to hit 2 grand slams in one game.
* The immortal Nolan Ryan gave up the most grand slam home runs for a pitcher in his career at 10. Meanwhile, approximately 150 pitchers who threw at least 200 career innings never surrendered a grand slam. One pitcher stands out, however- Jim Palmer of the Baltimore Orioles never gave up a grand slam homer in his 19-year career. That includes regular season and post-season ball. Palmer also never gave up back-to-back home runs in his entire career.
* Travis Hafner and Don Mattingly share the record for grand slams in a single season at 6 ( Interesting note: Mattingly hit 6 slams in 1988- the only 6 slams of his entire career). Ernie Banks and Albert Pujois hold the National League record with 5 grand slams in a season ( Pujois' 600th career home run was a grand slam).
* The record for most grand slams in a season by a rookie is 4 slams in 2008 by Chicago White Sox Alexei Ramirez.
* Jim Northrup ( 1968) and Larry Parrish ( 1982) are the only players in baseball history to hit 3 grand slams during the same calendar week.
* On May 26, 1926 pinch-hitters Pat Crawford ( New York Giants) and Les Bell ( Boston Braves) became the only pinch-hitters in baseball history to hit grand slams in the same game.
* Alex Rodriguez has the most career grand slams with 25. Lou Gehrig is second with 23. Willie McCovey has the National League record with 18 slams. McCovey also has the record of slams in consecutive seasons at 9.
* Cleveland Indians' third baseman Travis Hefner holds the record of hitting 5 grand slams before the all-star game in 2006. Sixto Lezcano has the only Opening Day walk-off grand slam. He did it on April 10, 1980. Roberto Clemente has the only walk-off inside-the -park grand slam in major league history, accomplishing the feat on July 25, 1956. He did it in spacious Forbes Field, the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates for many years.
* Four players have hit grand slams in their very first major league at-bat, including current Phillie Daniel Nava, who did it in 2011 while playing for the Red Sox.
* The "Ultimate Grand Slam" is a rare feat where a player hits a walk-off grand slam. Steve Pearce of the Toronto Blue Jays was the last major leaguer to do it, on July 30 2017.
* The Yankees are the only team to hit 3 grand slams in one game. No, not Ruth, Gehrig or Mantle, but Robinson Cano, Russell Martin and Curtis Granderson on August 25, 2011.
* Fernando Tatis of the St. Louis Cardinals is the only player in the history of baseball to hit two grand slams in one inning. He did it at Dodger Stadium on April 23, 1999.
* The only battery mates to each hit grand slams in the same game are San Francisco Giants' Buster Posey and Madison Bumgarner, accomplishing history on July 13, 2014.
* Major League Baseball's record for team grand slams in one day happened on June 3, 2017. Seven grand slams were hit on May 3rd last spring.
* The last grand slam in a World Series game happened last year when Addison Russell hit a slam for the Cubs against Cleveland on November 1, 2016.
* Tony Cloninger of the Atlanta Braves is the only pitcher to hit 2 grand slams in one game.
* The immortal Nolan Ryan gave up the most grand slam home runs for a pitcher in his career at 10. Meanwhile, approximately 150 pitchers who threw at least 200 career innings never surrendered a grand slam. One pitcher stands out, however- Jim Palmer of the Baltimore Orioles never gave up a grand slam homer in his 19-year career. That includes regular season and post-season ball. Palmer also never gave up back-to-back home runs in his entire career.
* Travis Hafner and Don Mattingly share the record for grand slams in a single season at 6 ( Interesting note: Mattingly hit 6 slams in 1988- the only 6 slams of his entire career). Ernie Banks and Albert Pujois hold the National League record with 5 grand slams in a season ( Pujois' 600th career home run was a grand slam).
* The record for most grand slams in a season by a rookie is 4 slams in 2008 by Chicago White Sox Alexei Ramirez.
* Jim Northrup ( 1968) and Larry Parrish ( 1982) are the only players in baseball history to hit 3 grand slams during the same calendar week.
* On May 26, 1926 pinch-hitters Pat Crawford ( New York Giants) and Les Bell ( Boston Braves) became the only pinch-hitters in baseball history to hit grand slams in the same game.
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