Stormbringer's Blog of Madness

2007-10-24T22:20:00.000-04:00

October 24th, 2007 - Canes vs. Sabres: Random Musings and Observations

- It's taken almost two years, but I think somebody at DirecTV finally, FINALLY heard my cries of "Dual feels like Dish Network has...PLEASE!!!". Tonight (and really, on various nights with various games since the season started), DirecTV provided both teams' broadcasting feeds for this game AND the Lightning/Capitals game. And a better Canes game couldn't have been picked...if I had to put up with Rick "GOOOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLL!!!" Jeanerette tonight, something would have been destroyed or killed during the game.

- Great, GREAT game from the Canes all-around...a couple of iffy moments in the first and second periods, but overall, I would say there was fifty to fifty-five minutes of damn good hockey played, which is the minimum you need to stick it to those Swords.

- John and Tripp are an absolute comedy team and don't realize it...especially with lines like this:

Tripp: "You sound like you could have been a rock star in a different life!"

John: "A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT life..."

I swear, these two could play an American version of Jeeves and Wooster...with John being the crafty butler, and Tripp being the goofy rich bachelor...

- I think Lindy Ruff and that guy in the Ameriprise retirement ads (y'know...the ones abusing the Spencer Davis Group's "Gimme Some Lovin'"?) were separated at birth.

Current Music: "Neurotica" by King Crimson

2007-10-21T01:03:00.000-04:00

October 19th and 20th, 2007 - Canes @ Penguins and Flyers: Random Musings and Observations

- The Canes did not play absolutely wonderful in these games, but they did not stink up the ice either. Not bad, considering that there are some injuries plaguing the team right now...

- ...That said, I hope Scott Walker and his tum-tum area is ok. My hopes went up when I heard he was released from the hospital Friday night. Also hope Erik Cole is ok...even if I do think how he supposedly hurt himself (playing soccer, or football as my ancestors would call it, outside of the locker room) was stupid.

- Very, VERY classy of the Penguins to acknowledge Ronnie Francis' becoming Assistant GM for the Canes. And even more classy of the entire Pens faithful in attendance to applaud it. *gives a thumbs up*

- Speaking of the Penguins, being a fan of theirs too, I am glad that they ended up getting the win...they really needed it, and it helped them get back to .500. And before you go jumping on me, as I've noted here a few times, I happen to like both the Canes and Pens, and therefore, games like Friday night's end up being ones where I am happy with whoever wins. ESPECIALLY if the Canes are off to a great start like they are right now, and can get away with sparing a win here and there.

- Games like tonight's do not help my feelings towards the Flyboys.

- I can tell this RBC Centura "Giant" ad campaign is going to get on my nerves...it doesn't help that that was the same campaign used last year AND the marketing geek in me just does not think "Let's Do Something Giant" is a great slogan.

- Until tonight, I did not know there was such a call as "Backchecking". Learn something new every day/night...

- Overall, this was an outstanding road trip...I'll definitely take the only overall (I.E. no points earned at all) loss being at DC. Getting a point in Pitt and Philly is certainly not shabby with both being quite fun places to play at.

Current Music: "Like A Hurricane" by Neil Young

2007-10-11T22:29:00.000-04:00

October 11th, 2007 - Canes @ Senators: Random Musings and Observations

- Holy crap...we DirecTV Center Icers got the John and Tripp Show tonight?! WOOT!!! As someone fully expecting to get TSN or Rogers Sportsnet, this already made my night. Not that TSN and Rogers are horrible, but I do prefer John and Tripp when it comes to Canes game coverage...I just cannot help but be a homer like that.

- As I said over at Canes Country, this game was, IMO, going to be very tell-tale of what's to come this season. Well, apart from the wittle comeback put on by the Sens in the last five or so minutes of the game, me likey what I saw...A LOT. Very, VERY 2005-06esque. And IIRC, the Canes ended up being the first team to defeat a very hot Ottawa team at the beginning of that season...

- The Senators' new clothes are buttugly. And that 'new logo' (it's really an update of the third jersey logo) gives me the creeps in that "I think it's staring at me!!" sort of way...not helped by how gigundo they made him on the ice compared to the old logo. o_O Maybe he can somehow get together with the Burger King king and the guy on the oatmeal box...

- Speaking of all things commercial, it took a little while, but I have finally found a couple of regular ads during FSN South Canes broadcasts to hate on...

1. That stupid, STUPID Hardee's ad with the surfer dude ogling the hula bobble-doll. Come to think of it, I don't think there is a Hardee's/Carl's Jr. commercial that I have really liked in the last couple of years. Maybe, MAYBE that one where they said they had milkshakes with that weirdo looking like he was going to tip a cow but ended up shaking it. But I think it was because that was how I found out about Sean Paul's "Get Busy" song.

2. I cannot believe I am getting ready to say this, but an ad for Canes game tickets. Specifically, the one with the two kids talking about being Caniacs. I know I am supposed to find them cute, but I really don't. And one minute is way too long for that ad...not to mention way too much time for my eyes to embrace that pink Canes jersey the girl is wearing. Even if I was her age, I still wouldn't wear that thing...but then again, I am a tomboy and have practically always been.

- Last, but certainly not least, while everyone played GREAT tonight, got to get in a special mention for Chad LaRose...certainly a whole lot outta Rosie tonight. If there is anyone who could be deemed the little engine that could for not only now, but really, the last couple of seasons, it's him.

Current Music: "Fiesta" by The Pogues

2007-10-11T08:19:00.000-04:00

BEST. HOCKEY. DESKTOP. WALLPAPER. EVER.

Click here.

THIS is HILARIOUS. Best action photo I have ever seen, not only because of what is going on down on the ice, but also because of the expressions on the spectators' faces. I think my favorite being the dude in the upper right corner who cannot decide whether to applaud the on-ice action or not... :D

Current Music: "Live and Let Die" by Paul McCartney and Wings

2007-10-09T23:44:00.000-04:00

October 9th, 2007 - Canes @ Leafs: Random Musings and Observations

- Y'know...as much as I hated that gawdawful loss in DC, maybe that very thing was the booster shot in the arm the Canes needed.

- Then again, I can't help but feel that the supplement of vitamin C. Stillman really helped in tonight's win...er, massacre of the Leafs.

- I know I'm probably going to get killed by some Canes fans for this, but I feel sorry for Coach Mo, dagummit. At the rate things are going, I'm going to be amazed if Mo is still around T.O. by the time Christmas rolls around...if not Thanksgiving.

- Speaking of people to feel sorry for, my heart sank when I read about Jason Blake being diagnosed with leukemia yesterday. :( Wish the man nothing but the absolute best in his treatment and getting to play as long as he can...

- At first, I did not understand how San Jose could let go of Toskala after what he did for them in the last season or two...but I think tonight cleared up things on that front. That said, I cannot believe that ol' Vesa was left in like that for the entire game...as much as I like Mo, that was a pretty poor decision on his part.

- I am *really* liking what I've seen of Jeff Hamilton...him and Dennis Seidenberg are proving to be very, VERY pleasant surprises out there.

- While I am glad that a game like this one got to be on national television AND was the only bit of hockey on anywhere tonight, it does not hurt my feelings that a lot of the Canes' games are not on Versus. God, those guys had me clamouring for John and Tripp or TSN...

Current Music: "Superstition" by Beck, Bogart, and Appice

2007-10-05T23:54:00.000-04:00

October 5th, 2007 - Canes vs. the Penguins: Random Musings and Observations

- I'm going to go ahead and say it: The real reason the Canes won tonight? Do I really have to say his name? Ok, for the clueless among you...he became assistant GM of the Canes yesterday. John Forslund interviewed Ronnie Francis during the Hurricanes Live pre-game segment, and the moment the interview concluded, I had an incredibly awesome feeling that the Canes were going to kick Penguin butt (sorry, Michael).

- That said, if I had known that #10 was going to be interviewed before or during the game, I would have made my score prediction at Canes Country much more in favor of the Canes than 6-5, Pitt.

- But, the game was indeed high scoring for the Canes...at the risk of sounding greedy, I could live with four goals every game, as opposed to only two.

- Boy, the Pens sure made like a Hoover tonight. Other than when they're playing the Canes (wink wink, nudge nudge), I hope they improve quickly...especially Monsieur Andre-Fleury.

- Speaking of goalies...how 'bout that Cam Ward? Forget Wheaties, somebody's been eating their fruits and veggies...other FSN Southers will know what I mean, Vern...

- On to ze Capitals, who won over the Thrashers, 3-1, in Hotlanta tonight. Should be an interesting battle of who's more worn-down...

Current Music: "Wide Angle" by Amon Duul II

2007-10-05T00:39:00.000-04:00

Ronnie Franchise Named Assistant GM of the Canes Franchise

*does the Meposian Dance of Joy*

I had a feeling this was coming, especially with the news of Jason Karmanos resigning from the position...but I did not want to say anything yet then.

Many congratulations to Mr. Francis...apart from his friends and family, there is probably nobody more happy at seeing him become second banana GM of his nicknamesake than this crazy Caniac and fan of #10.

Current Music: "Jus' Tonight" by Basement Jaxx and Gwyn Jay Allen

2007-10-03T23:20:00.000-04:00

October 3rd, 2007 - Canes vs. Habs: Random Musings and Observations

- Even though I understand that it had something to do with a VS. contract of sorts, I STILL say that FSN South not covering this game ROYALLY SUCKED. As someone who actually wanted to see the 10th Anniversary banner hanging, I knew darn good and well that the only chance of that happening would be if FSN South covered the game. As I predicted, the RDS (the Quebec/French TSN) feed did not show a lick of the ceremony...and while VS., if they had chosen to cover this particular game instead of Ducks/Wings, would have probably been a little better, I highly doubt they would have given the banner hanging the coverage that FSN South would have given it.

Not to mention that the RDS feed was just horrible tonight anyway...cameras and computer graphics out of focus during the entire game (and we're talking so bad that it got to where I started to worry that I needed a new glasses prescription) and even the sound got rather fuzzy and staticky in parts. Ugh...

Oh, and I have saved the best for last about this...the RDS announcers kept getting the players' names wrong. No, I am not talking about pulling a Gary Thorne and mispronouncing the names out the wazoo...I mean getting the players wrong. Some examples:

John Cullen = Matt Cullen

Ryan Whitney = Ray Whitney

One of the announcers also said that we got Jeff Hamilton from the L.A. Kings for Jack Johnson...certainly would have been a much better trade than it really was if that's how it had panned out.

- The first period was not bad, IMHO. Certainly where we saw the best playing out of the Canes in this particular game.

- But, what happened in the second and third periods?! I lost count of all the stupid penalties the Canes took, the times they were in their own zone, AND when they could have hit someone BUT decided to not do that!! Way, WAY too reminiscent of last season...and it's only the first game!

- Best player of the game was definitely Cam Ward...with Scott Walker and Andrew Ladd following right behind to the point of almost toppling upon the dude.

- Worst player? Definitely Nicky Wallin...two stupid penalties are enough of a no-no by themselves. But when those penalties lead to game-tying AND game-winning goals for the opposition, those penalties become a big fat hairy no-no.

- This Friday, the Canes that take to the ice better be the ones who started with two rather nicely played power plays at the beginning of this hockey game. Be it through power plays or otherwise, they'll going to need some goals against those Penguins and their mighty offense...

Current Music: "Anesthesia (Pulling Teeth)" by Metallica

2007-10-02T12:18:00.000-04:00

"He's Got Electric Skates, and A Crimson Suit!"

Wayne Gretzky is spreading the word about, well, electric skates.

I cannot decide if this is proof that sometimes the best news is NOT made up, or if this makes my sometimes playing around in my head with the idea of a "Bennie and the Jets" parody about the Canes and/or hockey that much more hilarious.

B-B-B-Brindy and the Canes!

Current Music: "Grazin' In the Grass" (Vocal Version) by Rick Braun and Boney James

2007-09-27T16:29:00.000-04:00

Jason Karmanos Resigns

Did anyone this coming?! I certainly did not... o_O

Even though the younger Mr. Karmanos cited "personal reasons" being behind his resignation, there is no telling what brought this on. But, I get the feeling that the Canes organization themselves may have known about this in advance...just a gut feeling I have.

Wherever Jason ends up, godspeed in all of your endeavors, sir.

Gee, I wonder what's going to happen to Tripp Tracy now that his buddy is no longer a Canes front officer...he and Jason were/are buddies from the days of the Raleigh Icecaps, y'know.

While I'm at it, I apologize for the lack of Canes news lately...but apart from the above, there has not been much going on other than the pre-season stuff. And those games are tricky for me to cover without a television presence. Though, all I will say for now is that thank goodness pre-season does not count towards anything...

Also, I have ordered a bottle of TEN from the Duplin Winery. Have not decided if I am going to actually taste the wine or not...I was more drawn to the name and label/bottle than anything. ;) But, if I do end up conducting a taste test, you can bet I will write about it here when I get the chance.

Current Music: "Sway" by the Pussycat Dolls

2007-09-07T16:56:00.000-04:00

New Canes Blog Added

Should have done this sometime ago, but I have finally added Beth. And Hockey. to the Canes portion of ye olde blogroll.

A belated welcome to the aforementioned blog!

Current Music: "Untitled (How Does It Feel)" by D'Angelo

2007-09-07T11:32:00.000-04:00

Tom Barrasso Officially Back With the Canes

As the new Director of Goaltender Development.

Jim Rutherford, President and General Manager of the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes, today announced that the team has hired former Hurricanes netminder Tom Barrasso as its Director of Goaltender Development. In his new role, Barrasso will work with all of the goaltenders in the team’s system who are not currently in the NHL, including players with Albany (American Hockey League), Florida (ECHL) and various junior hockey clubs.

“Tom brings instant credibility to his new position, and is somebody that the goaltenders in our system will be able to respect and learn from,” said Rutherford. “He has re-located his family to Raleigh and we are happy that he has chosen to continue his life in hockey with our organization.”

Wow. First Ronnie Francis becoming Director of Player Development, and now this. Can we say that we are quickly gaining one of the finer front offices AND ESPECIALLY scouting/development squads in the League? I certainly think so.

Speaking of Mr. Franchise...I am way more than willing to bet that he played quite the role in getting Mr. Barrasso to join ze organization. Especially as well know as Ronnie and Tommy's friendship is in various League circles, and has been since their Penguin days.

Current Music: "I Want To Thank You Very Much" by Bob James and Earl Klugh

2007-09-06T16:37:00.000-04:00

Canes Unveil Their New Threads

At long last, that glorious day has arrived...the day that we find out what, exactly, the Canes' new jerseys look like.

My verdict? They're nice. Even the piping that everyone was complaining about when the "preview pictures" via the EA NHL 2008 game came out a month or two ago looks pretty darn nifty. The Canes' jerseys are tied with the Penguins for being the best new threads to be presented thus far. And even if I was not a fan of both teams, I would *still* be saying that...particularly because of one thing: THEY DID NOT CHANGE THEIR LOGOS!! If there is anything that has been getting on my nerves about some of these new sweaters, it's the teams feeling like they have to change their logo for them...

So, a HUGE "Thank you!!" to the Canes and Pens for not losing their sanity and keeping their already great logos.

As an aside...what is up with Erik Cole's hair at the unveiling? Dudeman needs a haircut...stat!

Current Music: "Love Rollercoaster" by the Ohio Players

2007-08-27T16:46:00.000-04:00

Frank Kaberle Recovering From Surgery

Could it be? Can it be...actual Canes news?! Woo...oh, crap.

I normally would be very delighted to post Canes news, considering that it has been almost two weeks since I last updated this here blog, lack of Canes news very obviously not helping. But unfortunately, this news pertains to a particular key part of the Canes' already weak defense...one Frantisek Kaberle.

"According to Luke's blog, Kaberle had surgery on Saturday to remove torn cartilage from his right knee. He's expected to miss the first week of camp. I was in the "we'll be OK on D with a healthy Kaberle and Hedican" camp. Now, I'm not sure Frank will ever be healthy."

I am not sure, meself. IIRC, he was not all that healthy this past season, which was one part of the Canes' D woes.

I sure as heck hope the season gets off to a better start than this...maybe this will work out to be a reverse mojo thing: Bad news to start the season, GREAT news to end it.

In the meantime, since it is still the off-season and all, 'pop in' to my new webbing/writing project, Epitaph: A Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) Network when you get the chance. It's where my writing has gone over the last couple of weeks with it being all quiet on the Canes front, at least until today. Who knows...perhaps I can win at least one or two of you over to the R&H(D) franchise's tiny fanbase.

Current Music: Ryu's Theme - Street Fighter Tribute Album

2007-08-15T02:56:00.000-04:00

eBay Has Everything AND the Kitchen Sink!

Jerry Garcia's kitchen sink, that is...SERIOUSLY!

If you ask me, eBay is *really* missing the boat on a great ad campaign idea, or at least a slogan centering around that particular item.

Current Music: "Milk and Cereal" by G. Love and Special Sauce

2007-08-07T12:07:00.000-04:00

Oh, The Things I Have Been Doing Lately...

You know you've really neglected a blog when you can't even remember the last time you did a 'miscellany post'...though, I'm sure in my instance that it was not super long ago. Just a couple of months, worst case.

But, as noted previously, it does not help that the Canes have not had a ton of news during this off-season. AND because of that, I've had one of my busier off-seasons project-wise since...hmmm...probably 2003, when I was constantly working on my now defunct (as in I can't provide a link) Canes fandom website...

- Music geek I am, I have been constantly working on improving the audio quality of my computer/Gigabeat music collection. Originally, I was converting my files from 96 KBPS quality WMAs to 96 KBPS* quality MP3s, because I found out the hard way that RockBox, my semi-new firmware for "Stanley", does not like WMA files. Well, I was nearly halfway through that project, when curiosity got the better of me, and I started to explore the world of Ogg Vorbis files after reading so many other music/audio geeks proclaiming the said format to be the best they've ever worked with AND THE overall format they use for their computer/MP3 player music. So, I went and found a freeware Ogg Vorbis converter (BonkEnc, to be precise), and started playing around with a couple of tracks from my current most beloved concert albums, King Crimson's Absent Lovers and KISS' Symphony-Alive IV...

OH. MY. GAWD.

I used to think that Ogg Vorbis was so freakin' overrated...how could I be so, well, deaf? I cannot describe how ecstatically amazing the tracks I tested ("Discipline" and "Heartbeat" from AL, and "Let Me Go, Rock and Roll" and "Sure Know Something" from S-A4) sounded through Ogg Vorbis. And normally, I would be ticked off about having to repeat what I did last year right before I got the Gigabeat/"Stanley" in going through all of my CDs and files to convert them to the preferred format. But in this instance, it's like having presents to open almost every day.

And for the audio/techno/etc. geeks in my audience, I am converting my files to 65 quality Ogg Vorbis...which I find to be perfect in not only quality, but also the space taken up by the files. Any higher, and way too much space would be taken up...something one has to mind, especially with a 40 GB player.

- My other huge project, which I just started late last week, is finally getting pictures up on my Ron Francis collection site. Completed the Book section this past weekend, and am now working on the Apparel section. I plan to go down the list, with the exceptions of the Card, Multimedia, and Newspaper sections, which I plan to tackle last, as rather extensive as they are.

All of that said, for those of you interested, be sure to check back every day or two or three...I'm trying my best to update as frequently as I can, given that the pictures of my collection have been a long time in coming.

- Last, but certainly not least for now: I cannot stand it anymore. I have GOT TO GET Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) on DVD. Especially after happening upon this site when I was telling a friend about the series (spawned from our discussion of The Saint and similar shows). Even before I came across the site, I had been looking up various things about R&H on and off, because I absolutely adore the series that was shown on BBC America during the summer of 2004. That particular series was not the 60's original, but instead the 2000-01 remake starring the then infamous British comedy team of Vic (Reeves) and Bob (Mortimer), and I thought it was a damn good show...to the point that it was EASILY the show that I looked the most forward to every week that summer. The acting was not bad, especially considering that R&H was Vic and Bob's first (and probably only) "serious" acting deal. Not to mention that the supernatural aspect was pretty darn unique for a detective show. Even as a remake, I found the R&H idea of a ghost of a detective getting back up with his living partner and helping to solve crimes rather outstanding and just downright cool.

And to think that my happening upon the show was somewhat an accident...usually, on the Monday nights I would have BBC America on for my dinnertime viewing (back when they showed Blackadder, Monty Python, and/or Benny Hill from 7-8:00 in the evening), I would immediately turn away before they would start their big "Mystery Monday" deals. Well, it turned out that one night, I didn't turn away quick enough...and the title that was uttered by the host of MM, particularly the "(Deceased)" part, caught my interest. And that interest only further grew with the opening sequence and its rather haunting, no pun intended, theme...and thus began yet another television addiction.

All of that said, as a lover of the Vic and Bob treatment of the series, it kind of broke my heart at first to read a great chunk of the franchise's fanbase say that the 60's original was so much better. But the more time passes, the more such comments, along with the aforementioned fan site, *really* make me want to see the original, which is available on DVDs playable here in the US of A. And easily the one I will get, most likely sometime this week. Unfortunately, the Vic and Bob remake, along with the final thirteen episodes of the original, is only available on European/Australian DVDs...but if the price is right, I may eventually get those to play on my computer, which is certainly better than not having the entire original series AND remake at all.

As the saying goes, you never get over your first love...and best case, I will end up liking both versions of R&H equally. From the descriptions I have read AND what I know of the remake, it is my observation that the original series seems to have focused on actual mysteries and crimes more than the remake, which took the supernatural element and ran with it in the cases presented on that.

Current Music: "Hockey Night In Canada Jam" (Live) by the Jimmy Swift Band

* - I have found that in terms of minimum size AND sound quality preservation, 96 KBPS is what works best...despite now having found a better format.

2007-08-05T13:39:00.001-04:00

Bored "Fan" Writes A Letter To the Raleigh News and Observer...Film At Eleven

Wow...it's been over a week already?! Time *really* does fly when there's hardly any Canes news...of course, in my instance, it helps to have a couple of rather ambitious projects to do, which I will touch upon here later.

You know it is *very quiet* on the Canes news front when this is the biggest thing to have caught my eye lately...

"Canes' inaction over Staal's arrest is sad

So no disciplinary action will be taken by the Carolina Hurricanes in regards to Eric Staal's arrest for disorderly conduct?

That's a great message the Hurricanes are sending to the young people in this community -- if you are popular, young, rich and athletically talented, and you act like a jerk and get arrested, the team you are the public face for doesn't think it matters.

It is obvious that the attitudes of the NBA, NFL and other sporting organizations have carried over to the NHL: "You are better than everyone else because you are a professional athlete. Go on out there, have a good time, drink, party, get arrested, no problem! We'll look the other way!"

Pathetic. I would have expected better from the management of a Stanley Cup-winning team. I'll think twice before going to a Hurricanes game this season."

Definitely one of those types that need to be within five feet of a giant megaphone blaring "Boozefests happen in hockeydom...GET OVER IT!!".

I was not all that approving of what happened to the Staal brothers...BUT, unlike the bozo cited above, I take into account that...

1. It *was* a bachelor party...the only way a bachelor party would NEVER have drinking is if its participants were a bunch of Charles "Chaz" Finster* clones.

and

2. Something that the N&O and quite a few sources failed to pick up on about the Staals' big bachelor bash gone wrong is that according to at least one or two other sources I read (and posted here...just scroll a little further down), the Staals weren't the ones cutting up. Instead, it was two or three of their friends who did not heed the resort's request to stop partying and go to bed. And therefore, just like 27-29 students in a classroom having to put up with a class clown or two or three, all of the other participants of the party, including the Staals, were punished for the actions of an overwhelming minority.

Apparently, Jim Rutherford and company (along with the Pittsburgh Penguins honchos in regards to Jordan Staal) heard about #2 too...because if they did not hear about AND apparently believe it (along with me), there probably would have been a reprimanding of some kind by now.

In closing, I think someone has a lot of damned gall to call what is quite a minor incident NFL/NBA/etc.-like, when the said big leagues are dealing with far bigger problems than a bunch of bachelors being spoiled by a few rotten apples.

Current Music: "Boom Boom Out Go the Lights" by the Pat Travers Band (Live Version)

* - [TV geek]For those of you who aren't Rugrats (at least before Dil Pickles came along) fans, I am way more than willing to bet that a guy who would rather watch a chess tournament than the Rugrats universe's equivalent of the Super Bowl probably does not imbibe, even just a little bit, too.[/TV geek]

2007-07-25T23:33:00.000-04:00

Staal Brothers Lose Their Right To PAAAAAARRRRRTY(!!)

Eric and Jordan Staal got arrested for underage drinking (Jordan) and causing a nuisence and disturbing the peace in Cook County, Minnesota this past Saturday morning.

Overall, I agree with the sentiment that the event that caused the brothers' arrests really sounded no different from most other hockeydom boozefests (they *do* happen, people, get over it). BUT, I have to disagree with a few who say that it is no different from the tailgate parties outside of the RBC Center...seriously, getting flaming drunk AND heckling oncoming traffic? Maybe at the HSBC Arena, BUT NOT at the RBC Center...unless I have passed through and by the wrong tailgaters during my Canes game frequenting days. o_O

Anyway, after reading the following (Ooh!! Mug shots!!), which got released a little later after the N&O's above linked piece, me thinks the Staals just had the misfortune of falling asleep in the wrong place at the wrong time...

"Curran said the brothers were among several partygoers who went to bed when authorities first gave the group a warning, and when authorities returned to kick the entire party out of the resort, they first had to wake the Staals up.

"What is unfortunate is at the end, the entire group was asked to leave the hotel, including Eric and Jordan and some of the others that had gone to bed when the first warnings came in," Curran said. "They were asked to go to bed, and they did. ... A couple of the kids kept going. That's what caused the continued disturbance."

That said, I think I feel very safe in conjuring what this mess would have been like if it was a Beastie Boys music video...

*cut to a wilderness resort, where Eric and Jordan Staal are in a room decorated with pure white walls, artwork, and furniture*

Jordan: "Hey Eric...do you like parties?"

Eric: "Yeeeeeah..."

Jordan: "We can invite all our friends...and have beer, wine*, and pie!"

Eric: "Yeeeeeah!!"

Jordan: "I hope no bad people show up."

*cut to the two or three guys who were still cutting up when asked by the police and/or resort staff "to go to bed"...and uncannily enough, they are dressed to the nines in clothes similar to the Beastie Boys', right down to one of them wearing a Def Jam tee, and another wearing a 'bling bling' chain, AND in an all red room*

Cut-ups: "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!"

*insert an electric guitar strum...only to be interupted by a record scratch here*

Hmmm...I think we better stop there. This could turn out to be just as bad as the time I had the Carolina Hurricanes' five largest stars at the time turn into Twisted Sister over Paul Maurice's griping about Josef Vasicek playing hockey stick guitar...

Current Music: "Breaking The Law" by Judas Priest

* - We know the only 'soda' served at *that party* was Rum 'n' Coke.

Edit as of July 26th, 12:50 AM: It appears that both Mr. DeCock and ESPN missed a rather interesting detail, which was pointed out by one Eric McErlain...

"I've just gotten hold of the official press release from the Sheriff, and the entertainment factor just went way up. As it turns out, the entire party was actually warned that if they didn't knock it off, they faced deportation from the United States..."

O RLY?!

Just goes to show that while most bachelors go bar hopping, others (try to) go international border hopping...

2007-07-17T11:39:00.000-04:00

BREAKING NEWS: The Canes Roll Out the "Welcome (Back) Matt!"

Ladies and gentlemen, *her voice suddenly gets deeper and takes on a Carribean accent* it is a beautiful day...yes, a beautiful day!! And that is because...as if one could not tell from the title...MATT CULLEN IS RETURNING TO THE HURRICANES!!!

"Jim Rutherford, President and General Manager of the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes, today announced that the team has acquired center Matt Cullen from the New York Rangers in exchange for defenseman Andrew Hutchinson, forward Joe Barnes and a third round pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft."

As much as I have knocked Mr. Rutherford around for "reunion moves/trades" since last year, *this* is a good reunion move. As opposed to the others being for guys from 2002-03, this one is not only for a guy from the FAR BETTER 2005-06 season, but also a guy who is EASILY the best thing the Canes have ever had going for them shootout-wise thus far.

God, it feels good to finally laud Jimmy for a GREAT move instead of the complete opposite...'cause really, I am not *that bad* a fan AND person. I just want to see some good moves made and/or players coming to my most beloved NHL team. And I certainly know I am not the only one...
_____________________________________________________

Speaking of former Canes players returning...you know it is a slow news day at the Raleigh News and Observer when they decide to touch upon the fact that the Raleigh/Durham/general Triangle area is, *gasp*, home to celebrities!! As I found out from here.

It is certainly one of those 'don't get me wrong' sort of things...while I am glad to be informed on and off of how my birth/original home area has become quite the hotbed for my most favorite of sports, at the same time, I think articles like the one I've linked to are unnecessary. Especially in regards to celebs, like the ones mentioned in that particular article, having a hard enough time finding at least a little privacy as it is.

Though, despite my saying that, I cannot help but touch upon something I read at that Score Boards link...

"I think Tom Barrasso can be added to the list. He was in town looking for a house around Wake Forest. He wants his kids to go to school here."

I certainly hope Mr. Barrasso is looking into sending his kids to a private school or two instead of what Wake Forest has to offer on the public school route. Being a former Wake Forest area public school pupil, I know of what I speak...and you more prudish readers may want to briefly look away because I just cannot say this in a mild manner: Wake Forest area public schools SUCK. With maybe, MAYBE an exception or two or three, since I am talking about AND went to WF Elementary, WF-Rolesville Middle, and WF-R High...never had the opportunity to attend the Wakefield complex, despite the fact that it was closer to my family and I's house. But anyway, from what I have heard lately, at least one of the schools I attended is not getting any better...specifically WF Elementary, which is possibly getting ready to lose its Magnet School status (scroll down to "You have to pull in magnet status debate").

Current Music: "Es Solo Musica" by Mamborama

2007-07-12T18:06:00.001-04:00

It Is Christmas In July!

Well, for admirers of the one, the only Ronnie Francis...like yours truly, anyway. ;P

Today, Mr. Franchise had a press conference about his being elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame two weeks ago at the RBC Center...video here (courtesy of WRAL-TV 5), text there (courtesy of the Canes' official site).

Also taking a gander at Ron's Hall of Fame induction are ESPN and Luke DeCock/the Raleigh News and Observer.

As if this month could not get any better for this Francis nut...first, I won what is quite possibly the new crown jewel of my collection (and therefore won't be revealed until it actually arrives...all I will say is that it'll knock the current crown jewel, my 2001 Canes season ticket holder lithograph, out of its position), AND NOW all of this!! *happily sighs*

Current Music: "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" by The Police

2007-07-08T23:12:00.000-04:00

BOO!

I happened upon this tonight while keeping an eye on my DVD files' processing*...and if you ask me, Red Stripe** is *really* missing the boat on how they could have AND should have marketed that site: An instant sporting event sign generator.

Seriously, what ever-lovin' sports fan could say no to a sign that boos their least favorite team, certain personnel within the team and/or league, certain sports networks, etcetera; AND says hooray to the nectar of the sports gods? Not to mention that such a sign would beat the all-too typical "Go Team!" or "______ is HOT!!" signs.

Current Music: "A Message To Rudy" by The Specials

* - Yes, I am STILL working on that DVD trade project...but I think I am FINALLY close to having a desirable product. The trick is getting the setup on my computer *just right*, and that includes finding (and possibly buying) the right software and all, so kinks of all sorts can be worked out. So to anyone waiting on a copy AND reading this...don't worry, I certainly have not forgotten about you.

** - If Red Stripe sounds familiar, they are the fine beer outfit behind such ads like this and that (my personal faves...you can find a TON more on YouTube).

BTW, a question to any beerheads reading this place: Is Red Stripe any good? I cannot help but ask because I have read quite a few comments at various places saying that it is a pretty decent brew. But, I would love to hear from at least one or two who have actually had at least a sip or two of the stuff before I go out and grab a six pack...if I can find one around here, that is.

2007-07-04T13:36:00.000-04:00

Happy (American) Independence Day!

Whether you're at the beach or elsewhere, may your BBQs be fun and delicious AND your skies free of these.

Obviously, I'm not dead...just been very, VERY BUSY lately. While I'm still having fun with my commercial-less game DVD project, I am very, VERY close to something that will revolutionize this blog...thanks to something I won from here and which arrived yesterday. Just have a couple of things I need to play around with and work out. But hopefully, my big plan will make its debut either this weekend or next week. Again, stay tuned...

Current Music: "Oye Como Va" by Eliane Elias

2007-06-28T17:09:00.001-04:00

RON FRANCIS TO BE INDUCTED INTO THE HOCKEY HALL OF FAME

Inevitable, as it should be, it was announced today that the one, the only Ronnie Franchise is to be in the 2007 Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Class, along with Mark Messier, Al MacInnis, and Scott Stevens.

I was actually starting to barrack for Ron's induction to be next year instead of this year, due to the threat of this year's celebrations being heavily Messier-centric. BUT, I actually got to thinking: Ron will just be happy to come in and be inducted. And afterall, one of the reasons I like the man as much as I do is because he is not a gloryhound type like the other former NHLer mentioned in this paragraph. So yeah, let the gloryhound get the hype and everything...we know who the real class act is.

Many, many congratulations, Mr. Francis. I shall raise a glass of chianti in honor of thee this evening...

Current Music: "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper on Little Buddy Radio

2007-06-26T18:11:00.000-04:00

2007 Hockey Hall of Fame Nominees Announced

I sincerely apologize for the lack of posts over the last week...I have been *very busy* juggling back and forth between working on something that will hopefully revolutionize my Ron Francis trading/collecting hobby AND earning my way towards a little something that will hopefully revolutionize this here blog. Stay tuned...

It's funny that I mention ol' Ronnie, because he is the reason behind my posting this news: Today, the HHOF ballot for 2007 was introduced...among the names were you-know-who, Mark Messier, Al MacInnis, and Scott Stevens.

Very, VERY needless to say, the four aforementioned names should get in, no ifs, ands, or buts.

Ironically enough, after saying that sentence; BUT, if Ronnie somehow gets snubbed by HHOF, I will not be surprised at all, unfortunately. It would be disgusting, yet fitting since the song and dance of the man's NHL playing years has been his being the most underrated AND underappreciated hockey player under the sun.

Current Music: "Connection" by Elastica

2007-06-20T11:39:00.000-04:00

Scott Walker Stays!

Links here and there, 'cause I really don't feel like doing anymore "jokes" with Walker's name.

I may have ribbed on the guy and his performance from around December to the end of this past season, but doesn't mean I do not appreciate what Walks brought to an overall mediocre Canes team. Just think, if dudeman can be the third best scorer on such a team, just imagine what he might do on a hopefully improved Canes team this upcoming season. Of course, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, Jim Rutherford's gotta do something about that defense...the Class of 2002-03 Reunion certainly did not help either, but that D is my primary blame for a lot of this past season's woes.

Anyways...at least for today, we can celebrate the fact that we re-landed Walker AND Ray Whitney for just a combined $6.2 million per season...as opposed to each one being, oh, $4.2 million each season, like Scott Hartnell on the Philly Cheesesteaks. Between that and the rumors of the Buffalo Sabres' Thomas Vanek being offered a $49 million per year contract for six years, good ol' Booby Clarke is my front runner over Lou Lamoriello and Ken Holland for being the GM to break ye olde salary cap.

Current Music: "Rush" by Big Audio Dynamite

2007-06-19T12:06:00.000-04:00

Happy Anniversary!

For those of you who either live under a rock and/or just don't read that many Canes blogs and/or message boards*, today is the one year anniversary of your Carolina Hurricanes winning Lord Stanley's Prize!! (insert a Kermit the Frog "YEEEEEEAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!" here)

As announced a couple of weeks ago by the Canes themselves...there is a celebration and reliving of sorts to be held at the Carolina Ale House tonight. Being a Cool Bars atmosphere and all, it is very much bound to be packed. So needless to say, get there as early as possible in the late afternoon/early evening.

OR, do as I would do, even if I lived nearby as opposed to the Virginny/West Virginny border, and just stay at home. Sometimes, nothing beats being able to lie down on a cozy couch or sit down in a comfy chair (NO!! NOT THE COMFY CHAIR!! Shame on those of you who don't get the reference there...only one of the greatest skits in the history of comedy...), cranking up the DVD player, and beholding last year's golden memories, while sipping a Labatt Blue Light. In my instance, it helps that I happen to possess a DVD copy of the Game Seven coverage by not only NBC, but also CBC...who ended up being rather Canes-centric as opposed to their American brother station's being Oilers-centric. Jealous? C'mon, I know you are... ;P

Current Music: "Feels So Good" by Chuck Mangione

* - With very due apologies to those trying to access the Score Boards message boards via here over the last month or two, I am very sorry about those links being screwed up...just finally fixed them. Now, let's hope they don't attempt to be "search engine accessible" *again*...

2007-06-14T23:44:00.000-04:00

Versus Is Incompetent...Film At Eleven

Just when I begin to feel a little ashamed that I am missing the NHL Awards, I happen upon the following, and give myself a pat on the shoulder...

"It would have been nice for American fans of the NHL to watch these awards and theoretically the broadcast was supposed to be available on Versus at 7pm, buuuuuuuut….in true NHL on TV there was a snafu and Versus game it’s viewers a boxing match between…well, who the hell cares. Here’s a version of what went wrong from James Mirtle who was blogging the awards for AOLfanhouse:

“Here’s what happened. Versus was using the CBC signal from Toronto. However CBC is tape delaying the awards and showing them at 8pm local time. Apparently Versus just got the schedule from the NHL (which had the whole thing starting at 7) and never looked at the CBC schedule. Because the CBC feed from Toronto was delayed that would push the broadcast past 9 o’clock when Versus is scheduled for a live boxing match. Thus the decision was made to push the already taped award show to 11 and air the live sporting event.”

The reason that Food Network can beat the Stanley Cup Finals game one in the ratings? Because when Food Network says that “Build a Better Burger” is on at 7pm, it’s flippin’ on at 7pm. Versus is clearly run by chimps; chimps with a drinking problem."

*sighs* To paraphase one of my most favorite coffee mugs my family had growing up, which featured a bunch of cartoon orange tabby cats making a HUGE mess in a kitchen: "My league, LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT."

Obviously, I love it...otherwise, I wouldn't be here blogging about it whenever something postworthy comes along. But man...not only is Versus run by chimps, but so is the NHL, especially in marketing AND considering that SOMEONE at the home office in Toronto agreed to a deal with the aforementioned network.

And as I post this AND am scouraging the Net for more NHL Awards tidbits, my eyes embrace this...

"11:45 and they (*still*) haven't started handing out the hardware."

Yikes!! Thank ye gods for the Internet AND leaks...thanks to those, I have found out the following...

Rod Brind'Amour wins the Frank J. Selke Trophy for the second season in a row. - Yay for Brindy...and one of the few times I am quite glad to be wrong. I had him pegged for his award coffin being nailed shut by not making the playoffs. BUT, leave it to #17 to be mighty in not only muscle power, but also defying the odds AND media.

Lindy Ruff DOES NOT WIN the Jack Adams Award!! - Not totally official yet...but the moment it becomes that at one of my stomping grounds, you bet your sweet bippy I'll update this post.

Current Music: "That's Entertainment" by The Jam

Edit as of June 15th, 1:35 AM: To quoteth the great John Forslund...hey, hey, hey, what do you say?! The rumors were TRUE!!!

Hart Memorial Trophy, MVP - Sidney Crosby.

Vezina Trophy, goaltender - Martin Brodeur.

James Norris Memorial Trophy, defenseman - Nicklas Lidstrom.

Calder Memorial Trophy, rookie - Evgeni Malkin.

Frank J. Selke Trophy, defensive forward - Rod Brind'Amour.

Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, most gentlemanly - Pavel Datsyuk. (aaah)

Jack Adams Award, coach - Alain Vigneault.

King Clancy Trophy, humanitarian contribution to hockey - Saku Koivu.

Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, perserverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey - Phil Kessel.

~~~

Art Ross Trophy, points scoring leader - Sidney Crosby.

Maurice Richard Trophy, goal-scoring leader - Vincent Lecavalier.

William M. Jennings Trophy, goalies with fewest goals against, minimum 25 games - Nicklas Backstrom & Manny Fernandez.

---

Lester B. Pearson Award, outstanding player - Sidney Crosby.

All is right with the world...and I'm so happy, I just may not sleep for another couple of hours.

Current Music of the edit: "True" by Spandau Ballet

2007-06-12T11:05:00.000-04:00

"Easy, Breezy, Cover Boy!"

As revealed out in Canes message board land, 850 The Buzz, and by the Canes' own Mike Sundheim, Eric Staal has been made the cover boy for the 2008 edition of Electronic Arts' NHL series of video/computer games.

Not surprisingly, there are a few crying "Curses!" at this news...and for semi-good "reason", as featured in Mike Chen's blog:

"The first game to feature just one player on the cover was NHL 97. Previously, the other games just had action shots of several players. This game was coming off of Florida's rat-tastic run to the Cup Final, so naturally, they put the John Vanbiesbrouck on the cover. While the Beezer actually had a pretty good season, his Panthers did not, bowing out in five games to Wayne Gretzky and the New York Rangers. Curse? Probably not, though his stats went way down hill the next season. But one thing to keep in mind -- a few years later, the Beezer he went nuts on a crazy racist tirade to junior players and he had to quit his job and sell his part of the team. More on this later.

The next season was NHL 98 (1997-1998) with Peter Forsberg on the cover. Forsberg actually had a great year that year -- 91 points in 72 games. However, keep in mind that a few years later, his spleen exploded and he missed an entire regular season doing some soul searching/rehabbing in Sweden.

NHL 99 (1998-1999) was the infamous Year of the Cyber Athlete with Cyber-Lindros on the cover (accompanied by Rock You Like A Hurricane on the commercials). In April 99, Lindros had a collapsed lung; the following year, he was riddled with concussions and other injuries.

NHL 2000 (1999-2000), besides being the coolest sounding hockey video game title of all time, had towering defenseman Chris Pronger on the cover. A few seasons later, Pronger missed all but five games with injuries.

NHL 2001 (2000-2001) featured one of my least favorite players Owen Nolan on the cover. Not only did Nolan miss the majority of the 2003-2004 season with a variety of injuries (in addition to the chronic back and groin issues that slowed him down post-EA Sports), he was entangled in a lengthy legal battle with the Maple Leafs.

NHL 2002 (2001-2002) came right after Mario Lemieux's amazing comeback season, so of course, it was natural to put Le Magnifique on the cover. In three of the next four seasons, various ailments -- from back problems to hip problems -- limited him to less than 30 games each. Finally, a heart condition caused him to retire for good. You see where I'm going with this?

NHL 2003 (2002-2003) featured Jarome Iginla after his breakout 52-goal season. Iginla hasn't suffered any devastating injuries yet, though his post-EA Sports total hasn't come close to his 52-goal campaign (he was pretty amazing, though, during the 2004 Stanley Cup Playoffs).

NHL 2004 (2003-2004) had current NHL golden boy Dany Heatley on the cover. Shortly after the games release, Heatley was involved in the horrific car accident that claimed Dan Snyder's life. Heatley came back late in the season after serious knee injuries related to the crash, though the emotional damage caused him to request a trade.

NHL 2005 (2004-2005) was the lockout season. A game was still produced with Markus Naslund on the cover. Like Iginla, Naslund's one post-EA Sports campaign was disappointing to say the least, but at least he hasn't been hit with a freak injury.

NHL 2006 (2005-2006) put defending Stanley Cup Champion/World Cup MVP Vincent Lecavalier on the cover. Lecavalier had a disappointing season, but no crazy injuries to report."

Good news to those who are getting ready to jump on me for posting all of that: My personal take on a good chunk of the above is that a lot of it is *really* a stretch. To me, a "curse" would be solidified by the bad things happening to the cover boys in the season that their respective EA game is supposed to represent, NOT a few seasons later.

Therefore, the only ones who have actually fallen victim to the "curse", according to my rule, are Eric Lindros in 1998-99, Mario Lemieux in 2001-02, and Dany Heatley in 2003-04. And the former two of the three are *really* no shock AND should not be counted as part of the "curse", given their injury track record and all. Making the only truly freakish incident in the history of the "curse" be the infamous and life-theatening auto accident into which Heatley got himself.

So if anything comes out what turns out to be a bit a hogwash for Eric, it will most likely be another mediocre season in point production...something that will not surprise me, unfortunately, given how the Canes' lineup is currently looking at the moment. Of course, the off-season is still young...

Current Music: "Johnny, Let's Dance" - World Heroes 2 Image Album

2007-06-07T11:55:00.000-04:00

*channels her inner Rockapella* Where In the World Is Cuba Gooding Jr.?

That's not as catchy as "Where In the World Is Carmen Sandiego?"*, is it?

But, ol' Cuba *was* in a Southern California location last night...specifically, the locker room celebration held by the Anaheim Ducks after their much coveted AND maligned Stanley Cup win.

Per Yahoo/Associated Press: "Actor Cuba Gooding Jr. sipped beer in the victorious dressing room."

Y'know, when I did my Stanley Cup picture book thing last year (which I'd link to, but unfortunately, a lot of the pictures are now gone...including the one of Cuba and Ray Whitney... (sighs) ), I thought I was kidding about Gooding Jr. being there for the Bud Light. o_O

Unfortunately, I could not find any picture proof of the said actor being there...so I'll post the following, making us wonder whether the dude on the left was there too or not...

Current Music: "Been Caught Stealing" by Jane's Addiction

* - One of my latest geek trips has been rediscovering a precious gem from my childhood in the greatest kids game show ever, EVER made: Where In the World Is Carmen Sandiego?, which was based on a just as brilliant computer game series (before The Learning Company came along and messed it up).

To check it out for yourself, just click here to access my YouTube Favorites, where you'll see that my most recent favorited videos are from the aforementioned show. Simply a paradise for not only geography geeks, but also music and entertainment ones too...god, I love Rockapella. At least their 90's incarnation, anyway.

2007-06-07T11:38:00.000-04:00

Kaiton, Forslund, Tripp & Tracy. Ltd.

From the No Surprise Department (at least to moi) comes the news of Chuck Kaiton, John Forslund, and Tripp Tracy having been re-signed for their respective announcing jobs, as of last night.

Actually, if there is any sort of surprise in that news, it's the fact that Tripp Tracy is somehow sticking around. I was amazed upon reading that myself, though I was/still am also glad too 'cause I would miss having ol' Tripper around to rib on. Even though, unfortunately, he wasn't as much fun to rib on last season with all of his notorious food and groin talk having been toned down. Me thinks Mr. Forslund or someone else from FSN South had a talk with the Trippster about that...why it took at least five or more years for that talk to happen, we'll probably never know.

But anyways, I much rather have Tripp Tracy than Terry Crisp...while I highly respect Crisp for the fact that he coached Ronnie Francis as a Soo Greyhound, I don't think there is a more boring color announcer out there. But, you dear readers of mine are more than free to enlighten me...

Current Music: "Remedy" by The Black Crowes

2007-06-07T10:56:00.000-04:00

Big Joe Goes

A week or two ago, I had mentioned over in the 850 The Buzz blog that I was way more than willing to bet that the Canes would keep Josef Vasicek because of his "untapped potential", among other things. Folks, as of yesterday, I would have lost such a bet.

And that would have been one of the rare few times where I would not have minded doing such a thing. I said what I did because of having the fear that the Canes would keep Josef due to the occasional blather about all the "untapped potential" he supposedly has. The only "untapped potential" I remember from the dude is his sweet pass to Martin Gelinas to win the 2002 Eastern Conference Finals. Five years is a long time to keep someone who doesn't do diddly around...even if part of those five years was spent in Nashville...

That said, why Jim Rutherford decided to bring the guy back this past season will always be quite a perplexer...on up there with the forming of Stonehenge, that face on Mars, and whatever the heck happened to Chuck Cunningham...

Current Music: "Standing Outside A Broken Phone Booth..." by Primitive Radio Gods

2007-06-06T22:50:00.000-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ANAHEIM DUCKS!!!

Congrats to the Ducks...who, with their winning good ol' Lord Stanley, have completed an interesting coincidence. Like the Canes making up for their 2002 loss with their 2006 win, the Ducks made up for their 2003 loss with tonight's win.

Oh, Senators...maybe, MAYBE I would have pity for you if it weren't for a certain shot that your Captain did in Game Four. Tsk, tsk, tsk...

Current Music: "Phantom Lord" by Metallica

2007-06-05T01:26:00.000-04:00

Congratulations, Music Choice.

If you've been trying to give me nightmares, I think you may have finally succeeded.

So I'm sitting here, getting my nighty Adventure Quest dose, and listening to the MC's Smooth Jazz station...when all of a sudden, I glance up at the TV to see what song is playing, and THIS embraces my eyes and mind. o_O

Between that, and "Thelonious Moog's" interesting rendition of Focus' "Hocus Pocus" somehow passing for Smooth Jazz*, AND Talking Book being considered Smooth Jazz**, it's a freakin' miracle that I have not totally quit on Music Choice, period. ESPECIALLY ever since I've made Stanley, my Gigabeat digital music player, a practical radio station on my stereo, thanks to my discovery of RockBox a couple of months ago.

But alas, I have to have a source for discovering new tunes to like...especially since I'm not enamoured with XM/Sirius' fees currently, AND VH1 Classic has become VH1 Crap. I mean, seriously, where have all the videos gone? If I wanted lists, artist/band bios, etcetera, I'd watch the "normal" VH1 instead...that is, whenever they're not showing "Celeb-Reality" and/or "I Love New York". *sighs and rolls her eyes*

Current Music: "Feeling Good" by Randy Crawford and Joe Sample

* - It's not necessarily Thelonious Moog themselves and their material I have a problem with...just the fact that Music Choice has the damned gall to consider said material "Smooth Jazz". Heck, it's not even regular Jazz for that matter. BUT overall, other than that, it's really hard to complain about two guys who have an obvious delightful sense of humor, as demonstrated by their American Standard album's cover sporting the two drawn as cartoons holding toilet implements. Just like why Dave Barry excluded The Rivingtons (makers of such fine, classic, booty-shakin' tunes like "Papa Oom Mow Mow" and "The Bird Is The Word") from his infamous Bad Song Survey: Thelonious Moog's concept is so bad, it's good.

** - I do like two songs by Talking Book..."Your Soul Baby" and "Now (Instrumental)". The latter is easily the only thing by them that passes for Smooth Jazz. The former is a *very good* song, but is definitely more of a 70's Pop/Soul throwback than Smooth Jazz.

Not to mention that "Story of Life" seriously needs to go...did the world *really* need another bad O-Jays soundalike song? Ugh. Come to think of it, the only O-Jays songs I like are "Love Train", "Back Stabbers", and "For The Love of Money" (a.k.a. the 'Money, Money, Money' song), and those are guilty pleasures at best. The more I think about it, the more I realize that I think I like "FtLoM" because I think I could plink out the first few notes of that song the next time I happen upon a Casio/Yamaha keyboard set up for people to goof around on at a Sam's Warehouse or Wal-Mart. Hey, if I could/can plink out the legendary keyboard sequence backing up Greg Lake's vocals in the first couple of verses of ELP's "Knife Edge", then why not the opening to "$,$,$"?

2007-06-04T23:00:00.000-04:00

No Pictures, Please!

Fighting pictures, that is...as addressed by a fellow reader to the Raleigh News and Observer...

"Jerry Barker of Raleigh wrote a letter to the sports editor, published Sunday, that urged The N&O to not publish photographs of NHL players fighting. Barker wrote: “Do everything you can to help promote good sportsmanship, positive fan behavior, civility and good, clean competition.”..."

I will admit that when I first got into hockey in 2002, I was very mixed about fighting...but that all changed rather rapidly when I noticed how much of a necessary evil it is. Without fighting, you would have crap like what Pronger did to McAmmond in Saturday's game, what Scott Stevens has done to quite a few players in his career, etc. happen way more often than such events have overall. I have been AND still am of complete belief that there is no better way of telling a team and/or certain members on it to "cut the crap" than fighting.

If there is anything in that sentence from Barker's letter that throws me for a loop, it's that bit about "...positive fan behavior...". Bzuh? Has the N&O published pictures of fans fighting that I have somehow missed?! Last time I checked, it's pictures of PLAYERS fighting, NOT FANS.

But overall, Mr. Barky Von Schnauzer needs to get a muz...er, grip. And the following goes for not only him, but also a lot of those trying to soften up hockey by having the fisticuffs removed: It ain't gonna happen, OK?! I have lost count of how many times I have laughed at the nuts who say one of the most beautiful things about "the new NHL" is the "the lack of fighting"...I don't know what games these people are looking at, but I am noticing just as many fights now as when the NHL was "old".

And speaking of "the old NHL"...in closing, here is a moment from then that proves that even the most sportsman-like of players found/find themselves in a situation where they had/have to put up their dukes...and were/are not afraid to do so.

Current Music: "Don't Forget Those Forgotten" by Nelson Rangell

2007-05-31T13:26:00.001-04:00

All of A Sudden, I Have A Startling Urge To Throttle A Couple of People...

...specifically, a certain bald egomaniac and attitudinal defenseman who *really* needs to retire.

Remember the Mark Messier Leadership Award? It's not just a monthly thing...there is an annual version too. And the winner of it? For those of you who couldn't figure it out from the opening sentence of this entry: Chris "I'm friends with Alan "Steve Dallas"* Thicke!" Chelios!!

Whenever I get good feelings about the colorful tapistry of hockey history and the individuals who have made for that (as a matter of fact, last night, I ordered a book about one of the sport's absolute true good guys AND great coaches in Roger Neilson...the overall subject of this post makes me want that book to get here that much quicker), along come one or both of those a-holes to drench that tapistry with a freakin' huge bucket or two of black paint (or in Mess' instance, blue, and for Chelly, red).

Why do I feel that way about those two? Oh...I'll just let my fellow Score Boarders do the talking...just to prove how I am definitely not the only one.

"I heard them saying on XM the other day ago that (Chelios) didn't shake hands with Anaheim when they lost.

What's worse is that the XM hosts were defending him for it, applauding his discipline for not starting trouble in the handshake line by simply not doing it.

What a bag of crap."
_____________________

"You're being far too kind. Don't forget the great job he did captaining the 1998 Olympic team in Nagano. After finishing 7th or whatever, they trashed their rooms.

How do you win "Leader of the Year" if you're not even an Alternate on your team?"
_____________________

"He somehow managed to avoid trouble when he shook hands with the Flames and Sharks after Detroit WON those series. What an a-hole. And Messier just continues to make me wish he'd go away with such a weak award. Just another horrible decision by the NHL to put this attention hound front and center.

At least call it what it is, the "Mark Messier Cronies Award," and don't let him get away with making this look legit."
_____________________

As posters like to say at Television Without Pity, WORDY MCWORD to the Mark Messier Cronies Award thang. I don't know what angers me more about the "Leadership Award": The fact that there are AT LEAST TEN, IF NOT MORE current/former Captains I can think of who were/are far better at the position than Messier could ever hope to be; AND/OR how this is adding fuel to the Messier AND Chelios ego-fires.

That said, I seriously cannot think of a better closing remark AND potshot than this...

"It's amazing that Messier can walk upright-- I'd think with a head that large, he'd keep falling face first."

Current Music: "Stop the Rock" by Apollo 440

* - Have any of you seen the Tahiti Village ads with Alan Thicke? In the final few seconds, when they pan away from Thicke, he looks *just like* Steve Dallas from the Bloom County and Opus comic strips!! It's those sunglasses and Hawaiian shirt, I'm tellin' ya...and he looks so much like Steve, I keep expecting Opus the Penguin and/or Bill the Cat to emerge from the swimming pool/"lagoon". o_O

2007-05-31T12:41:00.000-04:00

BREAKING NEWS: CAM WARD SIGNS THREE YEAR CONTRACT

Like Wardo himself, this is big...very big.

Someone posted at the following epistle in the official Canes board thread about this wonderful news...

"Looks like the cornerstones are in place for more success."

While I agree with that to a certain extent, at the same time, I cannot help but channel my inner Nathan Lane from The Birdcage, and say "Nooooot necessarily.". Why? Well, as long as the Canes keep practically the exact same defense (and not to mention the same backup goalie, who, I'm afraid, the Canes are stuck with for at least another season*) from this past season, I wouldn't really expect 'more success'. Heck, as good as Cam Ward already is AND has further potential to be, I lost count of how many times the defense let him down last season. Why Jim Rutherford is so insistent on keeping that defense together thus far is WAY BEYOND me.

Of course, I also keep in mind that what also didn't help in the now previous season was the power play and lack of a shootout king, who the Canes lost in Matt Cullen. But, I think the defense played just as huge a role in the Canes not being able to defend their 2006 Stanley Cup Championship.

Current Music: "Taxman" by George Harrison (Live and Featuring Eric Clapton)

* - If only we could get Martin Gerber back...he looks like he's over the fact that he is practically destined to be a backup goalie. Of course, in addition to his being a decent backup, getting back a playoffs rabbit's foot would be nice too.

2007-05-25T11:59:00.000-04:00

Scott Walker Might Be Living Up To His Name

Oh Scotty, whether you can help it or not, you and your name, well, walked into that one. ;P

Seriously, unless he changes his mind, Walker is most likely walking away from the Canes to test the free agency waters...making most of the Caniac Nation scream "HELP!!".

I understand why the Nation is reacting the way they are...Walker was definitely one of the better players on the squad last season. He had his scoring streaks, and actually showed a bit of grit here and there on what many can agree was a soft team, save the presences of Scotty, Brindy, and Whitney.

BUT, and I've said this before here or elsewhere, Walker was not the most consistent player. As a matter of fact, his best time of the season was from the beginning through around December. And I know this because I remember the days where I was able to pick up Scotty off of the Free Agency in one or two of my Fantasy Leagues AND rejoiced because he was on fire and it was amazing that nobody else beat me to picking him up; and then turn around and dump his butt because before I knew it, Walks' constant scoring stopped.

So...my overall opinion is that if Walker can somehow get back to his beginning of last season form, then I'm with the many doing their best Mr. Bill impression if Scotty does not remain a Cane. BUT, if he retains his opposite form, then count me among the rare few who could care less if Walks, well, walks or not.

Current Music: "It's Time To Party/Party Hard" by Andrew WK

2007-05-24T17:38:00.000-04:00

Glen Wesley Keeps A Tickin'...

The News and Observer Article

Score Boards Thread

850 The Buzz Post

Just like Hedican, Wes has always been one of my most favorites ever since I got into the Canes in 2002. BUT, just like I was when it was announced that Hedican is possibly coming back to the Canes, I am a bit leery at Wes returning when he was not the greatest defenseman we had this past season. Neither was Heddy…it was not long ago that Bret was one of the fastest skaters, if not THE fastest skater on the team (once Kapanen went to the Flyers). I did not see that particular Bret Hedican this past season…nor did I see the Cup winning Glen Wesley either.

Again, I *really* like Heddy and Wes, and if they wanna be Canes for one more year…bully for them, I guess. But, it’s not gonna stop me from thinking that there are much better defensive options than them. Afterall, and I know I’m more than likely going to get jumped on for this, if David Tanabe is your overall best d-man for the season, then something is wrong, regardless of how much Nobber may have improved.

Current Music: "Clash At the Mountains" - The Legend of Zelda 4: Link's Awakening OverClocked Remix

P.S. If you feel like you're experiencing deja vu...it's 'cause you probably saw my words at either the Score Boards and/or 850 links, 'cause I'm lazy like that, especially when it's been a long day AND I'm already hungry.

2007-05-22T23:57:00.000-04:00

Scott Walker Offered Three Years, Bret Hedican To Possibly Stay If Healthy

According to the Raleigh News and Observer...

"The Carolina Hurricanes were waiting for Bret Hedican to make a big decision. Turns out he already made it almost a year ago.

Hurricanes general manager Jim Rutherford said Monday that after the team reviewed its files, it discovered Hedican picked up his $2.4 million option for the 2007-08 season last year during the Stanley Cup finals.

"It's not that it slipped through," Rutherford said. "He had from that date until June 1 to exercise his option. He did it within two days after he could, while we were still playing."

Now the only questions are about his health. Hedican, 36, underwent hip surgery last summer and never fully recovered, missing a total of 16 games over the first four months of the season and the final 16 games of the season."

__________________________________

"While the Hurricanes will make most if not all of their player decisions during their meetings June 4-7, Rutherford said a three-year offer remains on the table for Scott Walker and he expected to meet with Rick Curran, the agent for Cam Ward and Glen Wesley, "within the next two weeks." Ward is a restricted free agent while Wesley is an unrestricted free agent."

As much as I like Heddy, I cannot help but be on the "Please retire now!" bandwagon regarding him. He was hurt and out a lot this past season...seemed like every other game or so Bret would be in the press box.

If Hedican can stay healthy this upcoming season, then I'm all for his coming back to the Canes. But, if it is going to be like last season, I'm not sure I want him taking up space on the blueline.

_____________________________

Outside of the Canes, there is other NHL news I cannot help but rejoice at...the Red Wings have gotten flushed out of the Playoffs by the Ducks!!

And what better way to celebrate than with our friend, the Toilet Duck!

Current Music: "Caribbean Nights" by Bob James

2007-05-21T01:01:00.000-04:00

*does her best James Brown* I'm Back...I'M BACK!!

Get up offa that thing and dance 'til you feel better!!

I certainly feel better...I apologize for the week-long wait, but as I mentioned over here, once I got my computer on Thursday, it still took a couple of days to get all of the stuff I wanted to keep from my old compy uploaded. Not helped by the fact that I royally screwed up the new PC's operating system (Windows XP Media Center...giving Vista at least a year to come down in price AND get its kinks worked out) Friday night in hopes of quickly finishing up my uploading via Windows OneCare. Long story short, OneCare wasn't totally clear with its instructions of what its "Backup Restoration" does with the files. But all was well when I found out another reason why Hewlett-Packard's computers rock: They have an option where you can tell your computer's OS to revert to its "new condition" when it first arrived in its refurbished box. Yes, it meant having to re-upload certain things again, BUT I don't think I could have been any more happier doing that. I was just very, VERY GLAD to get my OS and its INCREDIBLE sound and graphics systems (and uber-nifty HP photo software) back after Friday night's debacle (which made me get out the laptop again so I could at least get my Adventure Quest fix before hitting the sack).

Speaking of the compy being a HP one (my previous one being a Compaq, which is technically a HP too...meaning that basically, I've never been able to completely shake myself of the brand), when given the opportunity to "name" it (much like you get to give your Nintendo Wii a name when setting it up), I thought of christening the PC "Patrick" or "Marleau", since my new compy is a HP Pavilion...think about it. But, I ended up going with "Reed", from the real name of my most favorite comic book character and practically the "human" computer of the Marvel Universe in Mr. Fantastic instead.

Speaking of him...god, I hope he and his team's second movie is a whole lot better than the first one. I'm STILL reeling in shock from how they effed up the total classic of an origin by having the future Dr. Doom tag along with the four soon-to-be fantastic ones. I'm sorry, but part of the charm of the Dr. Reed Richards/Victor Von Doom rivalry is the fact that they have never really gotten along. And when they have had to get along, it is more often than not a very unpleasant and begrudging time between the two geniuses.

In addition to that, a friend recently made me aware of a potential great effing up with another total classic in the upcoming movie...spoiler proofed for those of you who actually care:

Galactus is not a enormous intergalactic golum-like being as he has been portrayed in ink and paper...instead, he is merely a storm cloud. YES, A FREAKIN' STORM CLOUD!!!

As I told that friend, it scares me to think that ten years from now: The Flintstones will be known as candy that's supposed to be vitamins* instead of classic cartoon characters, Galactus will be known as a big ol' thunderstorm instead of a cosmos-born giant, and Tecmo Super Bowl will be known as yet another crappy football video game franchise instead of the former glorious shell of itself, among a ton of other things.

The scary thing? I am not nearly as fanatic about the Fantastic Four as I once was in a former life. But, dagummit, I care about them and especially their movies, since that is what is finally getting my most beloved comic characters ever in my childhood/life in the spotlight after at least the 80's and the infamous John Byrne creative run. And it worries me that there are at least two, if not more things in those movies that make my skin crawl...if they can do that, then there is no telling how much Jack Kirby is tossing and turning in his grave.

Speaking of things that make one's skin crawl...time for my marketing geek-out of the moment: Have you seen the now not-so-recent Sprite "Sublymonal" commercials? I finally have, thanks to my morbid curiosity stemming from reading the following at Television Without Pity recently...

"Wah! I just saw another Sprite "Sublymonal" commercial. Lebron James skulks around a mansion wearing a lime-shaped helmet. They're stalking a gigantic walking tongue (okay, a guy in a tongue suit) with paintball guns. They find the tongue and alternately shoot it with green and yellow paintballs representing "lime" and "lemon." And, there are little people dressed as lemons and limes jumping in a pool.

I am not feeling refreshed or thirsty right now."

If you don't know what the heck I am talking about...the following will "refresh" your memory. And no, not one of these is the aforementioned jewel featuring a certain Cleveland Cavalier...

And remember, kids...

"Don't worry, it will only affect your brain."

I don't know about you or anyone else, but that screams "RUN...like the wind...like Forrest Gump!!".

Besides, Sprite doesn't contain caffeine...what fun is that?

Current Music: "A Soldier's Memories" - Sailor Neptune's Sailor Moon Sailor Stars Single

* - I refuse to believe that freakin' "Gummies" are real, honest-to-goodness vitamins/supplements.

2007-05-13T13:06:00.000-04:00

Happy Mama's Day!

A Happy Mother's Day to all moms, moms-to-be, grandmothers, and grandmothers-to-be in the Caniac Nation and beyond!

And who better to celebrate Mother's Day with than the mother of mamas herself...Mama!

Current Music: "There's No Other Way" by Blur

P.S. I apologize for the lack of posts the last couple of days...my computer has died. *sighs* In the process of getting a new one...but in the meantime, I'm using my laptop PC, normally used for trips and such.

2007-05-10T18:11:00.000-04:00

I Wonder If It Will Be Sponsored By Chipotle...

Y'know...I never thought I'd see something that would top Raleigh's Time and Light Tower* on the Ugliest City Landmark list, if there were ever to be such a thing. Well, that is no more, I'm afraid...I present to those of you who dare to click on the link, the proposed new entry for Chicago's skyline. (PG-13/TMI warning for some of the comments posted in response.)

Believe me, I made *very sure* it wasn't April Fools Day AND that it was not someone's twisted idea of a Photoshop joke...that sucker is for real. O_O

What made them think having the tower be round and swirly was a good idea?! Heck, what was wrong with this?

I'd be even more offended if I lived in and/or was from Chicago.

Current Music: "Feels So Good" by Chuck Mangione

* - In all honesty, the Time and Light Tower wouldn't look *that* bad if it was placed in a more open area, and not the one of the worst areas of Capital Boulevard AND Raleigh in general.

2007-05-10T13:46:00.000-04:00

Tonight's the Big Debut of the Conference Finals...

...let's have a jolly good laugh, shall we?

That very first clip makes me long for the days of when a certain hog had eyes that didn't make him look like he was high on something.

Current Music: "Axel F" by Harold Faltermeyer

2007-05-09T11:58:00.000-04:00

What A Mess!

Between the majority of the potential lineups AND the following revelation, I cannot help but swear that the hockey gods really have it in for yours truly with this year's fight for Lord Stanley...

"A few folks have also asked whether Peter Laviolette or John Forslund will be involved in the coverage of the Conference Finals on Versus in the coming weeks. As far as I know, Laviolette will not be, as NHL favorite son Mark Messier joins the Versus studio cast. There is a chance that Forslund may get to broadcast at least one game of the Western Conference Final between Anaheim and Detroit, but we are still waiting for confirmation one way or another on that. I do know that the Versus brass has been very pleased with the work of both men during their Stanley Cup coverage."

EWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!

While I cannot say it is quite well known/notorious, I do have quite the dislike for The Mess, as I've come to call him. And while there are a bunch of things I could write in regards to his "analysis" having a presence on Versus over Laviolette's (who wowed the boys in the studio, in what little I saw of good ol' Pete's stint), I think I'll just let PackNCanes at the Score Boards do the talking...

"Oh good, His Regal Splendor Emperor Mark I will be gracing my airwaves again.

I sincerely hope he hands out a Mark Messier Leadership Award for each shift. And that he stops the game after each shift to do so. While they're at it, considering the events of the past week, why not have Messier resurrect Barbaro? That'd drive the ratings through the roof."

At the risk of sounding incredibly insensitive about (channels her inner John Cleese) the ex-horse, has a racehorse and his/her injury ever gotten as much coverage as Barbaro?! The way the media has been acting, it's like he is the first ever racehorse to have a critical injury...which is highly ridiculous, considering that, quite unfortunately, critical injuries happen to horses all the time at races. Such is AND has always been one of the hazards of the sport.

All that said, the fact that there has been more than necessary coverage about Barbaro is quite telltale about what a softie country we have become...if you ask me, anyway.

Going back to The Mess, let's not even get into that friggin' Leadership Award again...other than I don't know what makes that "award" more of a joke: Messier's name literally being all over it OR the fact that it's first recipient ever was Brendan Shanahan. Yes siree Bob, whenever I think of leadership, I think of the dude who practically whined his way out of Hartford and into Detroit...oh yeah. *rolls her eyes*

Current Music: "All Blues" by Miles Davis and Friends

2007-05-08T11:19:00.000-04:00

Cake Or Death?

That pretty much sums up how I feel about the upcoming NHL Conference Finals...with the Ducks being 'Cake' and those other three teams being 'Death'. Knowing my darned luck, the Cake will run out before it comes around to me, I.E. makes the Stanley Cup Finals. And folks, if it comes down to Detroit/Buffalo or Ottawa (no lesser of two evils on my side of the continent and NHL..sorry), chances are that I will not lay an eye upon a single game of this season's SC Finals for the very first time in my five year NHL fandom career. Sorry, but I *really* do dislike those three teams *that much*.

But, it won't be like I will not have anything to do...especially with my ever-growing Adventure Quest addiction. Of course, you'd be addicted too if you were doing as well at the game as I am doing. And if you're wondering what the heck all those items I currently possess are...well, read a book.

BTW, is it just me (and Best Week Ever), or does this highly-anticipated-for-over-ten-years Guns 'N' Roses release, "Chinese Democracy", sound like a horrible Godsmack tribute band? o_O

And I'm saying that based on the one Godsmack song I heard on MTV2 one day and kinda liked when I was in late middle school/early high school. Looking back on that, the only conclusion I can draw was that I'd had a *really* rotten day at school that day, and that song (I wanna say it was called "Leave Me Alone", but don't hold me up to that) summed up my mood perfectly.

Current Music: "The Pilgrim" by Wishbone Ash

2007-05-03T10:57:00.000-04:00

R.I.P. Steve Chiasson, April 17th, 1967-May 3rd, 1999

Today is the eighth anniversary of the death of Canes defenseman, Steve Chiasson, whose final moments are described quite well by Greensboro Hurricanes...

"It was eight years ago today that Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Steve Chiasson died in a single-car accident after leaving a post-season party thrown by teammate Gary Roberts. His blood-alcohol level was .27, more than three times the North Carolina legal limit of .08.

The Hurricanes had lost Game 6 of their opening round series to the Boston Bruins that evening at the Fleet Center and were eliminated 4 games to 2.

Kevin Dineen, the former team captain, said he was with Chiasson in the garage and had gone back inside to find someone to take him home. When he got back, Chiasson was already gone.

The Hurricanes have not issued Chiasson’s number 3 to anyone since his death."

Unfortunately, I was not a Hurricanes/hockey fan at the time, but I do remember reading/hearing about the accident, AND ESPECIALLY seeing the flags attached to the fence around the gaping hole where the accident occurred at the water treatment plant on Falls of the Neuse Road. Unlike my parents (who had the audacity to make snide comments about the fact that Chiasson was a "damn yankee" AND a hockey player whenever we passed by the accident site...amazing what time AND ESPECIALLY a daughter's ever-growing fandom can do to change such crass attitudes), seeing the site touched me. And the memories of such still work their magic on moi today, especially the more I read about what a good guy Chiasson was on the team, both on and off the ice.

In honor of #3 today, I am wearing my "Blueline Defense Dept." shirt...since ol' Steve was a blueliner. And I don't think anything can sum up his and the Canes' tragedy anymore than PhilEsposito...

"A somber memory and a sad exclamation point on the end of season. Chaisson was one my favorites and certainly the heart of the D on that team. This was a tragedy at so many levels. One can only hope that when a high profile person fails so unnecessarily that others will take notice and modify their own behavior and save lives. That can be the only positive thing to come out of situations like these."
_____________________________

Coincidentally enough, a tragedy has befallen a fair member of the Caniac Nation, a man known as Pucking Lamplighter/Jim at the Score Boards Canes MB...

"Jim and Anne were involved in an automobile accident on April 21st. They were broadsided on the driver's side by a drunk driver. Anne had some minor injuries but Jim took the brunt of the impact. He sustained a serious head injury along with a fractured pelvis and a broken rib. It's going to be a long road to recovery"

From the "Jim Cornwall Recovery Fund" to the efforts of Judge Wapner at the said message board, arrangements are being made for Jim to receive all sorts of aid, prayers, and encouragement possible. And you can help...be it through sending money to the Jim Cornwall Recovery Fund, OR to Judge Wapner for his "keep his collection" auction (just respond to this thread and stay tuned on where to send the money), and/or if you live near Hillsborough, helping out with Jim's business or cooking a meal for his poor wife.

In closing, I feel it is best to remember the following...

"For all those born beneath an angry star, lest we forget how fragile we are..." - Sting

Current Music: "She Sells Sanctuary" by The Cult

2007-05-02T10:41:00.000-04:00

Odds and Sods

- With this year's NHL awards nominees announced, Rod Brind'Amour finds himself a finalist for the Frank J. Selke Trophy for a second year in a row.

Brindy may or may not win this thing again...what I am factoring regarding both aspects of that:

May Not Win:

Not on a playoff team.

Not on the media darling New Joysey Devils.

May Win:

Has the highest +/- of all the Selke nominees, the other two being Samuel Pahlsson and Jay Pandolfo (hence my Devs comment).

Of the three nominees, has the most goals scored.

Interestingly enough, even though the Selke is for defensive play, it more often than not goes to the man with the most goals scored. That said, Brindy should have this thing in spades. But that remains to be seen...especially if (does her best Putty from Seinfeld) THE DEVILS(!!) and Jay Pandolfo continue with their usual playoff reign of terror.

- On the other side of the player spectrum...Anton Babchuk has most likely signed with a Russian club, Avangard OMSK, to be precise.

No surprise at all to me there...Anton was not the Canes' greatest defenseman this past season. AND, there were (thanks to this revelation, I highly suspect more than) rumors that Babs was not thrilled with his use on the team. Not to mention all the talk of him being potential trade bait...at the risk of showing off how un-savvy I am about contracts and such mess, I wonder if the Canes can still trade Anton's butt for either a (hopefully) better defenseman or at least a prospect of sorts, should Anton ever return to the NHL...

- In better Canes news, the Canes announced that 2007-08 season ticket prices will remain unchanged from the 2006-07 season's STH prices. After all the speculation from PLENTY of fans, including myself despite not getting to attend at least one game this past season, about the Canes having the audacity to increase prices after such a rugged season, three cheers and a tiger for the Canes' brass for not doing what would have been a stupid move. Of course, I suppose setting an attendance average record (17,387 fans per game) AND a season sellout game record (NINETEEN!!) *really* helped. Who *still* dares to say hockey doesn't belong in NC? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?

- For anyone consuming mass quantities while reading this, I highly recommend that you skip the following couple of paragraphs...

As I was enjoying my lovely breakfast of a Kashi TLC bar, milk, and coffee; the most unnecessarily disgusting ad embraced my television set. It was for the umpteenth new pregnancy test...no big deal, right? Oh, wrong...SO. VERY. WRONG. After the ad got through closing in on the pregnancy test device, it backed away to show URINE SPLASHING ONTO THE DEVICE!!! It's a freakin' miracle that I did not do a spit take with my coffee as my eyes went as wide as dinner plates in a "Did I just see THAT?!" manner. BUT, I did end up having a flashback to when I went and saw Apollo 13 at a theatre, and right when I took my very first bite out of a Reese's cup (Back then, I had a habit of not eating my candy until the movie "started getting *really* good"...in this instance, it was when the astronauts shot up into space.), a nicely sized glob of vomit floated across the movie screen. Um, yeah. o_O

As I've had to make clear here before, I am not a prude. BUT, I like to maintain a sense of decency. I'd love to think that people know what pee is AND how you make such a substance. But then again, such a statement more than likely underestimates the stupidity of this nation. o_O

- And I feel very safe saying that last sentence after reading the following this morning...

"Britney Spears just played live, for the first time in three years, at the House of Blues in San Diego. She performed for about 10 minutes.

SOURCE: It was the top story on the Fox 6 News tonight. And they've had continuing coverage throughout the newscast. *sigh*"

That blurb does not even mention how people actually paid $200 for that "performance". O_O

I don't know what melts my brain more...that, or the fact that the said "performance" was actually considered news to the point that they had CONTINUING COVERAGE OF IT. I would say "Only in California.", but what (almost prevented) me from doing that is keeping in mind that if Clay Aiken were to ever perform in Raleigh for the first time in three, five, ten, whatever years; there is no doubt that WRAL and/or other local TV news outlets down there would have continuing coverage of such an "event".

Between all of that, and Anna Nicole's baby's daddy (say that five times fast), it really, REALLY scares me what counts for actual news, locally AND nationally, these days...

Current Music: "Electric Clouds" - Chrono Trigger OverClocked Remix

2007-04-30T10:59:00.000-04:00

Answering the Call

I.E. Yours truly somewhat goes Patti Smith on the Caniac Nation (or at least the members who happen to hang out at the Score Boards)...film at eleven.

I woke up to seeing the following posted at my most frequented Canes MB this morning...

OK, perhaps I'm missing something here--why does it seem that Debi and I are about the only ones here who wouldn't mind the Sens winning the Cup?

Did we suddenly develop a group hate-on for the Sens when I wasn't looking or something?

Naturally, everyone posted "Nope." and "Me too." or something of similar clique-like ilk...making me state that the following has been my opinion for sometime, without the need or want of being different from everyone else:

I don't want Ottawa winning the Cup.

And before I proceed with the following, I've met and I know nice Ottawa fans. But, I have my reasons and/or observations...

*insert canned Beatlemaniac and Elvis fan screams here* - In a phenomenon I have yet to be able to fully grasp in all five years thus far of being a Caniac/NHL fan/etcetera, the Ottawa Senators seem to be THE one opposing NHL team that bring out the inner puckbunny in the Caniac Nation. While I do have my tendencies in that vein (I *am* a female AND only human, afterall), I have just never found the Sens to be all that and a bag of a chips in those regards.

I can only imagine how much louder the swoons would get if Jose Theodore joined the Sens, be it as their star or just a mere backup (most likely behind Emery)... o_O

I Pity the Fools Who Pull For Dany Heatley - Well, maybe I'm being a little extreme in calling his fans "fools", but I just cannot pull for the dude who used to be such a thorn in the side of the Canes during his tenure with the Thrashers. Not to mention a certain accident I'm not supposed to mention again...and even though I know Heater highly regretted what he did, I still think he should have been penalized one way or another instead of simply being let go to play another day.

I Don't Like Daniel Alfredsson, Sam I Am - I won't go into elaborate detail on this...I just do not care for the guy. He tends to grate on my nerves as much as another so-called great captain in the Sabres' Daniel Briere. And just like the Sabres, the only thing Danny-Boy (Batman's butler-sson) is good for, besides crying a river at certain times, is Fantasy Hockey...

Actually, when one thinks about it, the Senators are basically Canada's Buffalo Sabres. Just without the mouthy coach and hoardes of drunks invading the opposing team's arena in addition to their own team's.

Anyways...with the Penguins out (no thanks to the Senators...as mentioned, I *am* only human), I am very hardpressed to find someone I *really* want to pull for in this year's playoffs. Between Ottawa and New Jersey, and Buffalo and the Rangers*, there is really no lesser of four evils in the East...leaving the West to look to. And therefore, only two teams I can really care for...Anaheim and Vancouver. The Canucks I'm willing to back up a little more thanks to knowing at least one friend in British Columbia's hub. The Ducks are appealing too, especially with my fond memories of backing them up in 2003...if only they didn't have that pukey and minor league-ish logo and uniforms... *sighs*

Despite fashion taste differences, I still say that this should be the Ducks' anthem.

Current Music: "Gates of Babylon" by Rainbow

* - The only good thing about that particular playoff series is that it constantly makes me think of one of Billy Joel's finer songs in "New York State of Mind"...

2007-04-29T21:22:00.000-04:00

The InterNational Hockey League?

So, I was perusing the Toronto Maple Leafs Score Boards MB, when I happened upon this interesting little nugget...

"On TSN, MacKenzie said that the NBA plans on expanding there, and the NHL is thinking about it."

If that is true, one way or another, my feelings on such a matter are simple: If it's something like NFL Europe in that there is a branch of the league in the said continent that has next to no interaction with its North American mothership, then I have no beefs what-so-ever. BUT, if it has anything to do with the European branch counting as part of the NHL itself...no sir, I don't like it. There are already tons of complaints about travel and/or schedule with just North American teams...I cannot imagine how many more there would be if there was the remote suggestion of travel across the pond and back.

According to KingBrodeur in the linked Score Boards thread, there is a little more to this...

"The cities they mentioned as having teams are Helsinki, Stockholm, London, Berlin and Geneva to start. Then if the economies pick up, move east into Prague, Moscow, Riga etc.

McKenzie think it will happen within 20 years or so. Personally I think if it was to happen, it would have to be some sort of merger with leagues already over there.

I wonder if it gets up enough teams down the road, it would be like an NHL Europe, then the winners of NHL Europe and NHL NA would play each other for the cup.

But this is far in the future. They'll be more expansion in NA first. He also gave a Europe, then the winners of NHL Europe and NHL NA would play each other for the cup. list of cities, Las Vegas(within 5 years), KC, Portland, Seattle and Winnipeg were the main ones. I think there was one more but I don't recall..."

The only way I see a truly international NHL working is for it to be at least twenty-thirty years into the future, when enough teams are established to have two separate leagues, like the MLB, and/or transportation has advanced to the point that continental travel is as simple as an one-three hour plane commute. If the former happens in a somewhat short amount of time, then I think the best form of execution for such an idea would be to try to have the Stanley Cup Finals take place on neutral ice...be it somewhere in North America, Europe, or even Asia.

Speaking of Asia, if an NHL Europe is successful, I would not be the least bit surprised if they tried to expand into Europe's eastern neighbor. Especially given how the sport is only growing in popularity in some Asian countries, and there have even been a few NHL draft picks to hail from over there.

Current Music: "Heaven Knows Our Name" by Budgie

2007-04-26T00:02:00.000-04:00

No, I'm Not Dead...

But I've been quite busy lately...

Thursday and Friday: Got my hair done at the salon and did a special Clinique spa and makeover at the nearby mall, respectively.

Saturday: Had a Subway lunch that could not be beat and did some hiking over at Pipestem State Park.

Sunday: Did some cleaning tasks that were much needed to be done.

Tuesday: Took my dog and cat to the vet and then did my weightbearing exercise for the week, thanks to Mountaineer Lanes' 99 cent rate every Tuesday. Also installed my new stereo...more on that when I get a chance to write about more.

Today: Helped my mom out with Curves' Bring A Friend day, and got to take in the Curves experience. I actually enjoyed it...but at thirty dollars a month (not including the sign-up fee!!), I think my stationary bike, walking/hiking, and bowling are sufficient enough. Also did some grocery shopping.

This weekend: Got company coming, and have to get ready for them...also get to look forward to playing bartender.

On the Canes fandom front...I got to see a little bit of Coach Laviolette trying his mouth at being an analyst in the VS. studio tonight. I was lucky enough to view the time of the night when he was feeling more comfortable and confident...according to some Score Boarders, he started out being a bit nervous. Overall, he was doing a great job for his first time...though, it was a little odd seeing Lavs singing the praises of the Sluggies... o_O Of course, guess it's kind of hard to not do that, considering how they wiped the Rangers tonight...

Current Music: "My Favorite Things" by John Coltrane

2007-04-19T01:26:00.000-04:00

Better Late Than Never

As the title indicates, I'm a bit late in posting the news of Jim Rutherford's being re-signed as the Canes' General Manager for five more years. But, I shall make up for that with a startling revelation I discovered not super long ago about said man of the hour...

JR and Robert Fripp were separated at birth. I swear it, as a huge fan of the Canes AND King Crimson/Fripper.

Don't believe me? Check it out...

*insert dramatic hockey organ music sounding strangely like Frippertronics here*

That was the best looking picture of Fripper I could find...but, if only he had narrower glasses... o_O

Also on the belated Canes news front is the fact that the Canes also re-signed their goaltending consultant, Greg Stefan, who is now officially a head coach thanks to the deal. It should also be noted that because of the deal, Stefan may very well now officially be the longest lived goaltending consultant in the history of the Hartford Whalers/Carolina Hurricanes franchise.

Last, but certainly not least, today is Michael a.k.a. Hockey Fanatic's birthday. Here's to wishing him a happy and hearty one, AND hoping that the Pittsburgh Penguins pull out a win in Ottawa not only for the sake of my sanity, what little there is left; but also and especially as a nice little present for Mike.

Current Music: "Angela (Theme From Taxi)" by Bob James (Featuring Earl Klugh)

2007-04-16T13:56:00.000-04:00

25+ Shooting Victims At Virginia Tech

As not only someone who hates seeing stuff like this happen, but also someone not real far from Blacksburg...Oh. My. God.

My prayers and thoughts go out to the victims and their familes, AND all of the students and teachers at VPI. Cannot say enough what a heinous and gruesome tragedy this is...and how horrible that it had to happen in a nice town and region.

I read at either an UNC or Virginia Tech MB (been board hopping all over about this situation) that the rumor is that the gunman was hunting down an ex-girlfriend, and he got a lot of the dorm girls to line up, execution style, and tortured/taunted and shot them. Whether or not that is true, Hell is simply not good enough for that bastard.

Current Music: "The Fifth Second of Forever" by Hawkwind

2007-04-14T12:22:00.000-04:00

Canes Re-Sign Ray Whitney

We interrupt a huge-a** addiction to Adventure Quest to bring you some berry, berry good news...

Turning an uneventful week* into quite an eventful one on the Canes news front, Ray Whitney got re-signed by ze Canes and "G.I. Jimbo"** Rutherford yesterday.

Unlike some fans, I am not at all surprised by Whitney's being re-signed, despite his being an Unrestricted Free Agent, had JR not signed him before July 1st. And it should be no surprise, considering that "The Wizard" was one of the only Canes to have a dynamite season (the other one being Rod Brind'Amour).

If there should be any surprise, it should be at the fact that Jimmy re-signed a major player before June. If that's not a record of some kind, I will eat a Canes cap.

Current "Music": Mythbusters on the Discovery Channel

* - Yeah, yeah, I know that the Stanley Cup Playoffs started and all that, and I'm following them. But, knowing how quite a few of you don't exactly care for the Pittsburgh Penguins, I thought I'd spare you from my fandom of them, save for the occasional and hopeful burst of celebration.

Should the Penguins falter in their quest for Lord Stanley, then GO PREDS!!

** - My loving nickname for the Canes' general manager...hailing from an episode of Rocko's Modern Life.

2007-04-10T00:37:00.000-04:00

Hibachis and Dragons

*imitates a certain Shakespearian actor wannabe brought to you by Starburst*

Japanese food! Japanese food! I'm a crazy geek who loves Japanese food!

JAPANESE FOOD! JAPANESE FOOD! I'M A CRAZY GEEK WHO LOVES JAPANESE FOOD!!!*

THAT, my friends, totally sums up how I feel after a meal at Kimono. Yes, I got to eat at Kimono tonight, and it RAWKED my socks.

It was so freakin' good that I'm left thinking "Kanki? What Kanki?". Really and seriously...Kimono was not just better than Kanki, it completely obliterated it. Just let me name thy ways it did/does so...

- They offer HOT GREEN TEA. Yes, HOT GREEN TEA. The closest thing to tea Kanki ever offered, at least when my family and I were frequenters there, was the standard fare iced tea.

- Kimono's menu's variety is phenomenal...from the top of my head, the meats are: Steak (which looked to be Ribeye), Filet Mignon, Chicken, Shrimp, Scallops, and Salmon. Yes, SALMON. I know Kanki never had Salmon (just the boring trinity of steak, chicken, and shrimp), and I cannot recall Teppenyaki and Benihana in Orlando, FL ever having Salmon. As a matter of fact, one of those places is the only other Japanese eatery I know of that serves/ed Scallops.

In addition to the meat, you can not only get it prepared in the standard tempura and hibachi styles, but also teriyaki (done on the hibachi)!!

- The food is just SO. FREAKIN'. MUCH. BETTER. THAN. KANKI. PERIOD. As I was eating my more-than-just-scrumptious Filet Mignon, Scallops, and Fried Rice (along with two shrimp, courtesy of the chef being generous), it dawned on me that the said food is not as "greasy" like Kanki's now seemed to be. One thing I noticed is that they don't used globs upon globs of butter at Kimono like they do/did at Kanki...leading me to believe that just because it may be up Paula Deen's alley doesn't mean it will actually make for better food.

So overall...I think I am in love with Kimono, to the point that it just might be my most favorite restaurant in the Bluefield/Princeton area, even more-so than Macado's. It far surpassed my expectations. And who da thunk that little old Princeton, WV would get such a dynamite restaurant?! Incredible.

You know that saying about the best things in life are free? Well, for those of you who make gaming practically their life, it don't get better than free online RPGs...such as Adventure Quest and DragonFable. I'll probably end up paying the $20 fee somewhere down the road (I already like the AQ game enough that I am willing to do that), but for now, I find the free portion fine...I'm up to Level 20 and STILL have a ways to go to be battle-ready and off on the missions they provide. I love a challenge...

Current Music: "Sunshine Moonlight" - Sailor Moon

* - Thank goodness everything cannot be put into four syllables...advertising/marketing is already going to hell enough as it is. o_O

2007-04-08T12:53:00.000-04:00

April 6th-7th, 2007 - Canes vs. Thrashers and Panthers: Random Musings and Observations

- I am quite glad that the crowd vs. the Panthers was A WHOLE LOT BETTER than it was vs. the Thrashers...was starting to get a bit worried that all that "Fan Appreciation Weekend" hype was all for naught.

- Speaking of Fan Appreciation Weekend...you'd love to think that FSN South would have finally had different RBC Center concourse shots of the Caniac Nation for such an event. As awful of me as it sounds, I couldn't help but LMAO everytime John Forslund said "And here is a wonderful shot of the Caniac Nation in attendance tonight!", and it would be the same freakin' shots of the mother and her three children wearing Canes goalie helmet masks OR the stand/kiosk selling sausages. Maybe it's just me, but I swear that CanesVision was a WHOLE LOT BETTER at having more variety with their concourse/arena shots up through last season.

- Things were getting hairy on the front of shutting up Olli Jokinen/Captain Peachfuzz's piehole. But the Canes got 'er done, ending a drab season in quite a bright manner. How appropriate given that it was Easter eve!

- That said...Happy Easter!! May you get plenty of chocolate and sunshine*!! Whoo-hoo!! :D

Oh, and let's not forget bunnies...lots and lots and lots of them. Afterall, what is Bunny Day without bunnies?

Current Music: "Got To Be Real" by Cheryl Lynn

* - Downright lucky to have sunshine today here in beautiful downtown VA/WV. It's been snowing here a good chunk of this weekend! o_O

Edit as of 9:50 PM: And as the holiday winds down...a little something for those of you who aren't chocolate aficionados.

2007-04-05T17:14:00.000-04:00

New Presences On Ye Olde Blogrolle

Thanks to a recent visit to CasonBlog (thanks for the recent acknowledgement! *waves*), I discovered a couple of more Carolina blogs...

Carolina On Ice

Jackie Manuel's Posse

Hey, didn't say they were both Canes related... ;P

*is thrilled to see another Tar Heel Caniac besides herself*

Also added Adrian Belew's official website and blog a few days ago...danged interesting reading and surfing there, especially for music and/or prog rock/"different" music afficionados.

Current Music: "I Got You" by Split Enz

2007-04-05T02:43:00.000-04:00

A Long Overdue Miscellany Post

I hate when I go through a phrase of not feeling like writing much...especially when I've been in a good mood for the most part lately. Oh well...maybe this will get my fingers a'tappin' on the keys again...

- I got to eat at THE MOST AWESOME PLACE this past Saturday...The Log House in Wytheville, VA. It reminded me a lot of a restaurant outside of Chapel Hill, NC called The Farmhouse. BUT, I think The Log House is better. As much as I liked The Farmhouse and their steak and cheese spread and crackers, The Log House MURDERS them on the variety/menu front. In addition to the usual steak, seafood, salads, and desserts, The Log House menu features sandwiches, Italian, and Southwestern dishes. As a matter of fact, I had the Black Bean Quesadillas for lunch...and they were FANTASTIC. The quesadillas were as tightly wrapped as could be in the tortillas, with a nice amount of hot and spicy in the flavor. And not to mention how I had the best damn Kentucky Derby Pie that I've ever had for dessert, along with a great cup of coffee.

Another way that The Log House KILLS The Farmhouse is that TLH has a really nifty gift shop, which is located in the back of the building, where there is a garden. There, I found and got three neat Greco-Roman column decorations...which go nicely with a Tuscan wine bottle nightlight I got from a friend of my mom's not too long ago.

- Speaking of eateries...someone or something has finally answered my silent cries of "A Japanese Restaurant...MY KINGDOM FOR A JAPANESE RESTAURANT!!". Not too long ago, such an establishment called "Kimono" opened up in nearby Princeton, WV. And much to my further delight, Kimono is a hibachi restaurant JUST LIKE KANKI (in Raleigh, for you non-NCers)!! I'll so need to try Kimono ASAP...most likely on a weeknight, since I heard that the waits during the weekends can be up to four hours long!! O_O

If Kimono somehow ends up not being good, something I highly doubt with those four hour waits, there's another option in Fujiyama in Beckley, about thirty to forty-five minutes away.

- Between Wild Hogs somehow doing so well at the movies to the concept of Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader? actually being allowed on television, I highly fear for the state of good taste in this world.

While I'm at it...the marketing geek in moi cannot help but also bring up...

The Burger King "Spongebob No-Pants" Ad - Who the HELL greenlighted this idea?! I honestly don't know what kills me more...the highly squicksome ad itself, or the fact that it's actually being shown during children's shows and such!! That said, believe it or not, I am not a prude...but at the same time, I just don't think a man's bubbly neither regions would make anyone crave chicken tenders. Then again, what do I know since I am not one of Madison Avenue's finest...

The Checkers/Rallys "Rap Cat" - OK...I'll admit that I chuckled at this the first time I ever saw it during the Canes @ Tampa Bay game on TV not long ago. But after further delving, I can understand why one or two posters at Television Without Pity are ripping on the Cat. Bags for your cat to wear* AND the stuffed karaoke performer getting ITS OWN MUSIC VIDEO (AND POSSIBLY ALBUM TOO)?! And I thought the BK King getting his own X-Box 360 video games was going a bit far... o_O

- Last, but certainly not least...I've gotten an IMVU account. This will be the closest I'll ever come to having something similar to MySpace. What drew me to IMVU is the fact that the chat software acts a lot like a RPG video game...right down to creating your own characters and giving them their own weapons and powers AND their own lair of sorts.

Here's my character/avatar's page...feel free to add me back as a Buddy if you have an IMVU account or decide you want one.

Current Music: "Somebody's Out There" by Triumph

* - For that video's commentors' information...it's not about people not having a sense of humor about "Rap Cat", it's the fact that dressing cats in fast food doggy bags to look like a pathetic gimmick *is* a stupid idea. Get over yourselves.

2007-04-04T01:01:00.000-04:00

April 3rd, 2007 - Canes @ Lightning: Random Musings and Observations

- At the risk of sounding like a horrible fan...I would have been right to bet money on tonight's outcome. Something deep down told me that the Canes winning and holding onto their playoff chances would be just too damned good to be true with this season's incarnation of Raleigh, NC's NHL pride and joy.

- The Canes are danged lucky that Tampa did not score more than they did...that said, holding back LeCavalier to one goal and St. Louis to no points at all is not an easy task. That much, the boys in red and black did right.

- Until the first period of tonight's affair, I never realized that the Green Acres theme* intro could be done in so many variations...and that's just on a hockey organ!! o_O Too many danged flashbacks of Forest Whitaker's dinnertime rendition of "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me" on Saturday Night Live...

- On the Tampa Bay feed, I saw a national brand commercial that was so "local ad"-ish, it hurt. Did you know that this year is Blue Bell Ice Cream's 100th anniversary? Neither did I, until employees' heads placed, Terry Gilliamation-like, upon the bodies of an eclectic band of sorts (I wanna say it was a jug and washboard band...but don't hold me to that) took thirty seconds of their time to remind me. Very needless to say, after beholding that spectacle that was just missing a cardboard cutout of Rod Serling on a popsicle stick, I hypnotically let out a "bzuh?".

- Well, with the Canes out of the playoffs...GO PENGUINS!!

That said...I may or may not cover the final two games. If I don't, then I got a question for those going...can you please, PLEASE get yours truly a 2006-07 Canes team photo poster if such a thing is given out? If so, PLEASE e-mail me. Thanks a bunch in advance!

Current Music: "When Love Comes To Town" by U2 and B.B. King

* - Everytime I hear ANY VERSION of the Green Acres theme, I'll always think of when my mom was put on hold in a phone call with some company, and the "on hold music" was TV themes...yes, TV themes. And one of those themes was the GA theme!! Bet that was quite as surreal as the show itself... o_O

2007-03-30T23:45:00.000-04:00

March 30th, 2007 - Canes vs. Lightning: Random Musings and Observations

- The only difference between this game and the past two "efforts" is that there was a *little more* effort tonight. BUT, not a whole lot more, especially in the third period.

- It never fails...the cards get laid out for the Canes to make some headway in the Eastern Conference playoff race, AND they end up proving they don't know when to hold'em, but they certainly know how to fold'em...

Tuesday @ the Leafs: Canes lose 6-1, while the Canadiens beating the Rangers (which really was more of a lose-lose game for the Canes...but at least one of the teams they are/were chasing didn't get two points), the Panthers defeating the Bolts, and the Devils eeking out over the Islanders opened the door for the Tropical Depressions.

Wednesday @ the Flyers: While the Cheesesteaks wiped out the Canes 5-1, the Panthers continued their winning streak over the Thrashers, which held them back so the Canes COULD have gotten closer behind them.

AND tonight vs. the Lightning: Instead of losing 4-2, if the Canes had won, they would have possibly found themselves in 8th place in the East, if not pretty darn close, thanks to the Senators winning over the Habs, and the Sabres slashing up the Fish Sticks, AND the Thrashers not even playing tonight!!

- Y'know the more I think about it, as disappointed as I am with the Canes' performance and not taken the chances practically given to them on a silver platter this week AND their possibly not making the playoffs 'cause of them, I cannot help but feel that they just plain don't deserve the playoffs this year anyway. Sure, the Canes have beaten their Sharks and Ducks. But, for every Sharks and Ducks a team defeats, they really, *really* need to blow their Flyers and Leafs, to name a couple of teams, out the wazoo. And the Canes have just not done that enough this season, IM(not-so)HO.

- Well, the Canes may not have gotten me a win...but they got me some exercise, thanks to a stationary bike I now have to ride while watching my Canes and Pens. :D

Current Music: "Wine" by Andrew Neu

2007-03-25T01:17:00.000-04:00

March 22nd and 24th, 2007 - Canes vs. Capitals and Sharks: Random Musings and Observations

- Remember where I said that game at the Devils was not exactly a turning point? Can I take that back? Please? Pretty please? With butter and maple syrup on top?

- Between these past three games and the Canes' overall play, the month of March has been like beisbol to the Canes. Despite the fact that in the games this RM&O is supposed to be focused on, the Canes haven't exactly SBLOUNSKCHED the Caps and Sharks like they did to the *does her best Putty from Seinfeld* DEVILS(!!). And if there's any other game where I wish they did that, it would tonight's affair vs. the Sharks...if you ask me, any team with Joe Thornton couldn't get SBLOUNSKCHED enough.

- And speaking of the Bad News (former) Bruin, why, OH WHY did Hurricanes Live do a freakin' feature about him? Just when I thought I would get away with not having to play Angry Carolina Hurricanes Nerd about FSN South sometimes giving a little too much attention to the opposing team this season, along came that crapola.

Anyway, you know why this month has been good to the boys in red and black? No, it's not Mike Commodore's enchanted afro...though, one could make the argument about the Canes' play picking up the more his carrot top grows. That said, I hope he doesn't have a girlfriend named Delilah...

But anyway, just a few days ago, I happened upon this tidbit over at Bubba's Canes Country...

"I was listening to a Justin Williams interview on 850TheBuzz yesterday afternoon and he sounded very upbeat. He said that the team still feels very confident in what they can accomplish and they are close to putting things together. Of course they are as disappointed and frustrated as everyone else is about the loses, but there are no more excuses. They need to start winning hockey games. He said that they got a visit from Ron Francis after the game Tuesday night and the “Franchise” told them that they are in a similar situation that he was in with Pittsburgh back in 1992, the year after they first won the Cup. The Penguins barely squeaked into the playoffs, but ended up winning the Cup again that year. Isn’t it great to have one of the best players to ever play the game come into your locker room for some inspiration? If that doesn’t get the boys worked up, nothing will!"

As I know I've said at least once, if not twice in this here blog: Ah...the power of Ron Francis.

- Something I did not realize until tonight...with the win over the Sharks AND the Thrashers losing to the Penguins (YAY PENS!!) earlier today/yesterday, the Canes are just a mere four points away from first in the Southeast Division AND the numero tres seed in ze Eastern Conference!! *does her best Ben Stein* Wow. O_O

If I was told a couple of months ago that the Canes were going to be in this position, at the risk of sounding like a horrible fan, I probably would have laughed off my butt. But, this is very much an instance of where I am glad to have been very wrong.

- Regarding other sports news...GO!! HEELS!! Both men and women happen to be playing tomorrow against Georgetown and George Washington, respectively, for a chance to be playing in the Final Four and Elite Eight.

As for my bracket...not only do I want the UNC men to win for the sake of being my favorite college and namesake, but also because thanks to Kansas getting knocked out by UCLA, the Heels find themselves being my bracket's wing and prayer.

Speaking of prayers...please direct them to the UNC's current Rameses performer, who is in critical condition after getting hit by a SUV near his hotel in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

And a HUGE THANK YOU to Sergio Garcia for proving to the world why you are EASILY my most disliked "professional" golfer.

"But it (the spit) did go in the middle (of the hole) and wasn't going to affect anyone else. If it did, I would have wiped it off."

Yeah. Right. *rolls her eyes*

Yes, I like golf...shut up.

Current Music: "Cammy's London Drizzle" - Super Street Fighter 2 OverClocked Remix

2007-03-24T12:32:00.000-04:00

New Links Added

Added a new link to the Carolina Hurricanes and Various Favorite sections of my chain...the NBC 17 Canes Blog and Strongbad E-Mail Archive (About time...right?), respectfully.

Random Musings coming for the game this past Thursday...figured I'd combine that and the commentary for tonight's game vs. the Sharks into one nice chimichanga.

Current Music: "Hello Betty" by Jeff Golub

2007-03-18T13:34:00.000-04:00

Stormbringer's Weeks In Review: March 6th-18th, 2007

And no doubt that they don't use anti-bacterial Kleenex too...

AWWWWWWW!!

Frasier and Niles Crane *must* be on the Vienna city council...

I could see this being the plot for an episode of a Britcom of some kind...

I honestly would not be surprised at this not being the first time such a thing has happened.

If only there was a way that "SHE SAID YES!!" could have been projected...

I'm surprised that this does not happen more often throughout Europe...

I'm very glad to know that it was ducks that were hatched and not boiling hot ectoplasm...

Looks like Thurston Howell III is not quite alone in his infamous bedtime habit.

Of course there are no pictures accompanying this article!! Also, I wonder if he is wanting the money to take a little trip to Scotty's birthplace...

Oh? And, apart from being only affordable by those who make a ridiculous amount of money, how are these shoes any different from other alligator/snake leather products?!

Personally, I think the sheep took a day trip to a Serta Mattress store...

So...it's alright to say the word in the play's title, BUT NOT IN THE PLAY ITSELF?! Okaaaaay... That's like saying you cannot return sand to the beach...oh, wait.

Some people have watched WAY TOO MUCH Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Talk about having no respect for the dead...

There *had* to be a rock or something uber-hard in that "snowball"...

This is just as bad as those "drive-thru" Easter plays you sometimes hear/read about...to quote Jay Leno, JUST HOW LAZY are we getting anyway?

Those kids probably don't realize that they are taking part in a piece of history...

Those "prominent bottoms" no doubt came from eating so much roast duck and mango salsa...

Well, OF COURSE there is gonna be some confusion when you mess with people's heads about what they are paying for milk!! Geez, gas prices are bad enough already...

Who knew school lunch could actually be so freakin' delicious?! Can we be jealous of these kids?

Current Music: "Red" by King Crimson

2007-03-18T01:24:00.000-04:00

March 17th, 2007 - Canes @ Devils: Random Musings and Observations

- The Canes should play on St. Patrick's Day more often...heck, every day should be St. Patrick's Day if it means the Canes blowing teams like the Devils out, 7-2.

- If Grahame keeps having games like the one he had yesterday, my fears of the Canes missing the playoffs without Wardo being able to play will be quite dumbfounded.

- Not to mention if the offense keeps on cranking out goal after goal.

- Got the Joysey feed, as expected with it being an away game, on Center Ice...which was no big deal thanks to the wonders of the Mute button AND my Gigabeat/"Stanley".

- Unlike a few people, I am not quick to jump on this game as "the turning point" for the Canes. I've seen it happen at least two or three other times this season: The Canes have a dynamite blowout game, which gets deemed their "turning point", and then they go and royally stink it up the next two or three or four games.

If the Canes would give me (and the rest of the Caniac Nation) at least two or three solidly decent games after this one, then I will be more than inclined to agree with others that yesterday's affair is a turning point. BUT, until I see those games, I have to play Angry Carolina Hurricanes Nerd...

- There's nothing like a Canes victory, corned beef, potatoes, Italian herb bread, Irish Cream, the Tar Heels advancing to the Sweet Sixteen, and a FREE (1980's era) KING CRIMSON CONCERT to complete an overall quite satisfying St. Patty's Day.

Current Music: "I'm Your Boogie Man" by White Zombie

2007-03-17T12:19:00.000-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

May the luck of the Irish be with you lads and laddies, the Canes, the Heels, your Bracketvilles, and/or regarding how many Irish Car Bombs you can down. ;)

Current Music: "Damn Noisy Kids" - Chrono Trigger Iron Mix Remix

2007-03-13T01:20:00.000-04:00

BREAKING NEWS: PENGUINS TO STAY IN PITTSBURGH

Unlike the last Breaking News, this I am quite happy to post.

Cancel the movers. The Penguins aren't going anywhere.

Sources close to the negotiations say that the team has an agreement with state and local leaders for a new arena that will be ready for the 2009-10 season.

The terms of the agreement call for a 30-year lease and spell out contributions from the team, the state and from gambling revenues.

A formal announcement is expected sometime tomorrow, prior to the Penguins home game at 7:30 p.m. against the Buffalo Sabres.

I am practically speechless with joy right now. I would have waited until the formal announcement to post this...but I am way too ecstatic at my second favorite team's staying in Steeltown to do so.

Current Music: "You and Me and the Bottle Makes Three Tonight" by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

2007-03-12T12:22:00.000-04:00

AHHHHHHH!! The Puckbunnies Are Taking Over!!

I wish I was joking with that statement...but I am not. O_O

There are two things that one or both of those girls better be glad about...

1. That I wasn't there to overhear their "conversation" and throw up on them as a result of that.

and

2. That I wasn't on the group that allowed that "Kitty Purdue" bimbo access to the rinkside AND airwaves. I'll put it this way: If it was The Gong Show, I would have gonged Miss "Kitty" after one or two sentences left her ditzoid mouth. AND in addition to that, I probably would have gone all Jaye P. Morgan on her boney a** too.

The scary thing? I could see such a woman in the sports broadcasting world here in the US of A. BUT, IN CANADA?! I'm still reeling in shock at how she talked about one of their most sacred sports, IF NOT their most sacred sport like she did. Not to mention offering a sixteen-year-old beer on regional/national television.

Then again, considering that Pamela Anderson got discovered at a Canadian Football League game, by merely being on the jumbotron/scoreboard/whatever, maybe I shouldn't be all that shocked. o_O

Anyways, if there wasn't an angry mob awaiting Ms. Purdue outside of the arena after the game, there very well should have been.

Current Music: "Sky High Percentage" by Budgie

2007-03-11T17:31:00.000-04:00

BREAKING NEWS: CAM WARD OUT FOR THE SEASON

Read it and weep, fellow Caniac brethren. :(

Admittingly, I did not really watch today's game vs. the Ranjerks (for reasons stated in the post below this one), but from what little I read and heard, the laceration Wardo got did not sound good.

Y'know, at the risk of cementing my being the Angry Carolina Hurricanes Nerd I have sounded like quite a bit this season AND to quoteth Jim Mora: Playoffs? WHAT PLAYOFFS?!

Seriously, I *really* hope to be wrong. But, I am not liking the Canes' playoff chances without Cam's presence.

Current Music: "Girl" by Beck

Edit as of March 12th, 6:40 PM: Well, well, well...it turns out that perhaps someone at the Raleigh News and Observer overreacted a bit.

As of now, Wardo is listed as missing out on a week at the most...NOT the rest of the season, as originally thought(?).

2007-03-11T15:27:00.000-04:00

How 'Bout Them Heels?

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN...YOUR ACC TOURNAMENT CHAMPS ARE...

THE NORTH CAROLINA TAR HEELS!!!

UNC - 89
NC STATE - 80

GO!!! HEELS!!!

Realistically, I don't think my boys will get a numero uno seed in the NCAA selection. But, if they do, I will be quite happy. :D

At least one of my favorite teams got the job done today.

And quite obviously, no, I'm not dead. Just have been a little busy here and there lately...more on that later.

Current Music: "Because We Can" by Fatboy Slim

2007-03-05T12:41:00.000-05:00

Stormbringer's Weeks In Review: February 19th-March 5th, 2007

Best friends for 20 years, eh? Hmmmmmm...

Can't be any worst than certain kinds of dog food available now.

*does her best Ernest from a certain scene in Ernest Goes To Camp* Ewwwwwwwwwww...

Here's one from the "Only In America" files...

Hey, if a gorilla can drink beer, then why not a duck too?*

Hopefully, they won't all sound like Mr. Feeney...

*hums Iron Maiden's "The Number of the Beast"

I cannot help but feel that women were the reason men had signed up and attended...

I hope Gary Bettman doesn't glean any ideas from this...

Just like Wikipedia edits, YouTube videos *really* aren't news...

No, he didn't know he was riding on the Marrakech Express...

"Rugged Island" sure sounds a lot better than "Craggy Island".

They weren't just drunk...they were MIND-BLAZINGLY DRUNK.

Sounds like a typical job by the BBC's House Invaders to me...they certainly have an appropriate name, anyway.

We just keep getting closer and closer to the age of Robocop, Terminator, etcetera...

Well, gee...could it be because they're *gasps* just kids?! What a concept!!**

Whether it contains alcohol or not, what the heck is Marmite? The foodie/gourmet-aholic in me admits to be ashamed of not knowing that...

Why didn't he just name his daughter Mercedes?

Current Music: "Fanfare/Fire" by The Crazy World of Arthur Brown

* - IIRC, it was something like 20 cans a day for the big guy... o_O

** - Really, the "little adults" mentality so many parents and teachers take with single digit aged kids now is rather appalling...IMnot-soHO.

2007-03-01T00:44:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday To Ronnie Francis!

A Happy Day to the Canes' own Director of Player Development. Too bad the Canes could not land a win against the Senators for an early gift. Because of that, I may or may not comment on the Canes' last two games...

It just so happens that the new home for my Francis collection site makes its grand debut today...whenever you get the chance, check out http://www.vivadieci.net/. missfantastic.com is officially no more, thanks to being given the golden opportunity to leave Yahoo! for Network Solutions, AND a much better e-mail and website account.

Current Music: "The Voice" by The Moody Blues

2007-02-25T00:05:00.000-05:00

February 24th, 2006 - Canes @ Thrashers AND The State of the NHL: Random Musings and Observations

Including the "State of the NHL" 'cause I am well aware that I have yet to comment on certain going-ons in hockeydom this week...

- Tonight's Hurricanes Live was the best I've seen yet. NO Captain Obvious accompanying Jerome Jurenovich...yay!! CO's replacement was A WHOLE LOT BETTER, IMnot-soHO...not nearly as much repeating what had already been said, and more actual insight. Me likey!

- Speaking of Hurricanes Live, they not surprisingly kicked it off with a look into Jeremy Roenick's roommate's coming to Carolina. Anson Carter was interviewed by Tripp Tracy, and then they featured a brief word with Jim Rutherford about the trade. And while he didn't come out and say it, Jim has been clamouring for Carter since at least the 2002-03 season. So, Potsie's* becoming a Cane really did not surprise me the least. But, it is something I have been highly iffy about since yesterday, despite the price tag being only a fifth round pick, or as I like to call it, a big whoop pick, and nothing more.

Carter has always been a highly on and off player, usually more off than on. But, something one needs to keep in mind is that Anson was stuck on a sucky Columbus team this season...so sucky that even Rick Nash is struggling. Why I still have Nash on my Fantasy team is way beyond me... But anyways, I somewhat cannot disagree with my man, Ronnie Francis, whose insight into the acquisition of Anson John and Tripp mentioned on Hurricanes Live tonight...according to Tripp, Ron said that Potsie is bound to be hungry for some points. And I certainly hope that Mr. Francis is correct, and I am a bit wrong in my thinking that Anson will have a couple of good games, but won't be anything special.

- I'm sure you have heard already, but just in case you have been living in a cave OR a caveman's crib, the Sabres and Senators had their own special uncertified edition of WWE Smackdown(TM) a couple of nights ago. And from I've read and heard, a HUGE hit on Drury, causing him to have a concussion, was what started the battle royale. We are talking so HUGE that it is being compared to the infamous Scott Stevens hits on Shane Willis AND ESPECIALLY Ron Francis during the 2001 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Three things I gotta get in about that linked thread:

1. Even though Ronnie is retired and everything now, thinking about and/or seeing the said Stevens hit will always feel like an icicle slicing through my heart. AND, the fact that John and Tripp supposedly praised Stevens for the infamous hit *really* burns my biscuits. "Supposedly" being the huge keyword here, 'cause I did not see the initial broadcast AND therefore never heard the John and Tripp Show's comments. BUT, if Bubba (of Canes Country) claimed he heard praise from the Canes announcers, then I cannot help but raise my eyebrow...

2. I wish that almost everyone would stop comparing the Neil/Drury mess to what happened between Trevor Letowski and Colby Armstrong. There was absolutely no intention in that AND Colby had enough class to apologize to Trevor and the Canes. But, I guess my take on that doesn't count since I am a flippin' Pens fan in addition to the Canes. (rolls her eyes)

And...

3. Even though I cannot stand the Buffalo Sabres and their head coach with the passion of ten flaming suns, I wholeheartedly agree with the featured letter from the governor (I.E. owner) of the Swords. These parts I especially like...

"Hitting is a very important part of our game. You hit to break up a shot, you hit to disrupt a pass, you hit to battle for the puck and you hit to gain position for a defensive or offensive play. There are many times a player is vulnerable. And there are many times when a player can make a hit on a vulnerable player but chooses not to for fear of injuring an opponent for no practical advantage. It's called respect."

"Your office informed our team today that the hit on Chris Drury was a legal hit and that it fit within the standard of play acceptable to the NHL. We do not think this should be the standard and we do not think it helps our game or the league. There is nothing manly about hitting a player that can't see you. There is nothing entertaining about a big man hitting a smaller man in the head. There is nothing good to come of a policy that allows exciting skilled players to be targets for what I believe to be predatory play."

- John Grahame had another good game...maybe the Canes do have a decent number two goalie afterall. I was starting to get a little worried about the former Bolt. Now, if he would just do something about that darned NASCAR motif-ed mask/helmet of his (scroll down to the bottom of the page)...

- I still highly dislike Garnet Exelby.

- I still think Blueland is a dumb advertising campaign.

- I am the walrus, goo goo g'joob g'goo goo g'joob.

Current Music: "Murder By Numbers" by The Police

* - After seeing someone else call Anson Carter "Potsie" over at the Score Boards Canes MB, I feel quite safe in doing the same. :D And for those of you who don't quite understand...you need to watch more TV. Nuff said.

2007-02-21T11:14:00.000-05:00

February 20th, 2007 - Canes vs. Thrashers: Random Musings and Observations

Before I proceed with my RM&O about last night's game...lemme put on my music critic hat:

I just listened to Kelly Osbourne's "Shut Up", courtesy of a friend who was very kind enough to send it to me. He also helped me find out about Ms. Osbourne's "One Word" about a couple of weeks or so ago, which I ended up liking A LOT MORE than I thought I would. But, "Shut Up"...I honestly don't know what to make of it. Especially given how much potential Kelly showed she has through "One Word".

The glaring difference I notice between the two songs is that "One Word" is highly reminscent of Kelly's dad's stuff in that it takes itself seriously in a way that makes it fun to listen and rock out to. "Shut Up", on the other hand, makes me think of The Naked Brothers Band with special guest singer Kelly Osbourne. And yes, there *really* is a Naked Brothers Band...do you *really* think I'd make that up? I'm honestly surprised that such a band name hasn't come along sooner...along with the marketing plan to slap 'naked' somewhere in a name.

(takes off her music critic hat and tosses it ala Mary Tyler Moore, except not trying to catch it)

That said, if the Canes cannot find a way to play better in front of a Raleigh, NC crowd, they'll need to find a way to cram "The Naked Carolina Hurricanes Hockey Team" on those dinky TicketMaster tickets, and in a rather quick manner.

- If I could pick one Cane to overall illustrate last night's affair with the invaders from Blueland (STILL think that's a stupid ad campaign, ESPECIALLY as an UNC Tar Heel supporter), it would have to be Cam Ward. Just like the Canes, Cam put up a pretty darned good game throughout the first and second periods. But then, also just like his red, white, and black brethren, Wardo managed to fall apart in the third period...particularly in the last three minutes of the entire game, where he allowed the two goals that broke the 1-1 tie AND put the nail in the Canes' coffin.

- Even though they played ok the majority of the game, I would still use 'mediocre' to overall describe this season's Canes. And I have no qualms in using that word to describe the Canes that took to the ice last night...ESPECIALLY considering that they faced Johan Hedberg instead of Kari "Final Fantasy/Kill Bill Dork" Lehtonen.

- Speaking of goalie mask art, in my feeble attempt to end this on a semi-good note, Cam Ward's new mask's art has yet to have been mentioned here...until now.

At that link, note the HUGE difference between Cam's current mask AND his past one...I don't think I or anyone else will ever figure out what ever compelled the boy to get Nickelcrap advertised on that past mask, outside of the Sherwood Park, Alberta connection.

And yes, as people have suggested at The Score Boards, that old mask looked like a skunk on Wardo's head from far away.

That new mask...one small step for the Caniac Nation, one giant leap for good taste.

Current Music: "Madrigal" by Yes

2007-02-18T13:24:00.000-05:00

Stormbringer's Weeks In Review: February 5th-18th, 2007

Actually, I already knew that the lead singer of Iron Maiden is also an airline pilot. Yes, really, I did...reason number umpity-ump you don't want to face me at Trivial Pursuit.

Ah...the power of cheese?

And is he somehow any relation to George Carlin?

Bet they'd leave him alone if he possessed the ability to have his skull be aflame...

Could it be that his singing "All I Want For Christmas Is You" all the bleeping time was what got him banned INSTEAD of his Mariah Carey fandom?

Does that mean their anthem will be "Eye of the Tiger"?

For those completely tired of watching paint dry...now, you can watch cheese age! Whoo-hoo!!

Further proof that we are getting too "PC" for our own good...and even more.

I hope those at Television Without Pity who get annoyed with the gift-wrapped car ads (Lexus *really* coming to mind.) don't get wind of this.

I was wondering when Sir Bo of Rat would make the headlines again...

It should be illegal to make a kid do that much homework. Seriously.

It's a mine...of PURE. GREEN!! (But seriously...what were they THINKING?!)*

Lends new meaning to the title of a certain Captain Beefheart album...**

Mmmmmmm...pizza.

Sometimes, the best news is what you seriously can't make up...or predict.

This reminds me of the Frasier episode where Frasier's dad, Martin, got forty extra bucks in addition to his $20 withdrawal from a teller machine... and that somehow evolved into an extra $10,000.

Uh...I thought the point of a "bed-in" was to be in bed all of the time until the protested event ended.

Um...Hollywood has never been *that* accurate. I mean, seriously, did anybody really think Cleopatra and Marc Antony bore an uncanny resemblance to Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton?! Not to mention Julius Caesar looking an awful lot like Rex Harrison!! Gimme a break!

Y'know, "I did it 'cause I was drunk." could explain a lot of things...

Current Music: "Follow You, Follow Me" by Genesis

* - Reference to my most favorite episode from the Elizabethan Era season of Blackadder.

** - Lick My Decals, for the Rock and Roll ignorant amongst any of you. ;P

2007-02-17T03:06:00.000-05:00

More Heroes Crap

Eden McCain
You scored 37 Idealism, 66 Nonconformity, 33 Nerdiness

I think you really want a donut.Congratulations, you're Eden McCain! You've got a colorful past, and your persuasive abilities are second to none. In addition, you're a quick thinker with a solid amount of guts. Your best quality: The art of persuasion Your worst quality: A fondness for some stereotypically "bad" behavior

My test tracked 3 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:

You scored higher than 99% on Idealism

You scored higher than 99% on Nonconformity

You scored higher than 99% on Nerdiness

Link: The Heroes Personality Test written by freedomdegrees on OkCupid Free Online Dating, home of the The Dating Persona Test

*does her best L.L. Cool J* I'M BAD!

I'm a little amazed that my nerdiness wasn't any higher...but based on a LiveJournal friend's results, that means I might have turned out to be Sylar. Eeeeeeep... O_O

Current Music: "Breezin'" by George Benson

2007-02-16T12:10:00.000-05:00

February 15th, 2006 - Canes vs. Rangers: Random Musings and Observations

- I don't know who I have a bone to pick with more...the Canes, or their production crew at FSN South.

- I guess I'll start with FSN South, since the very first thing I see is their pre-game show alias Hurricanes Live(!)...

I don't think I need Captain Obvious (a.k.a. the new partner they got for Jerome Jurenovich as of last night) to basically repeat what the interviewed players and Laviolette already said. I also don't care if Captain Obvious has got nine-ten years of NHL playing experience under his belt. All of that experience sure did not help him overcome the fact that he came across to be as stiff as the Michelin Tire Man last night.

Also, do we *really* need to interview Peter Laviolette before EVERY game AND its second period?! It's not Lavy I have a beef with...it's interviewing him all the freakin' time. You'd think after a season and a half of that, FSN South would finally try to mix things up a bit. We finally got a tiny hint of mixing up last night, when Jeff Daniels, NOT Kevin McCarthy, was interviewed before the third period. Not a bad start. But if you *really* want to start impressing moi, FSN South, instead of Peter Laviolette, interview other front office guys/staffers when and if they're available...like Jim Rutherford, Jason Karmanos, Peter Karmanos (if he's in town), Chris Huffine, Sheldon Ferguson (if he's in town), Ron Francis (if he's in town), Wally Tatomir, Skip Cunningham, Pete Friesen, etcetera. Not to mention former Whalers/Canes players and wives/family of current and former players, among other people. There *really* is so much you can do with that Pre-Game Interview, FSN South!! And hey, if Lavy has a fit about not doing that Pre-Game Interview, then kindly let him keep his pre-Second Period interview. IM(not-so)HO, the Pre-Game Interviews are where the freshness in the interviewees is most important.

- I don't think the Canes heard John Forslund stating that "there is(now was) a playoff atmosphere" in Raleigh yesterday evening. Certainly didn't play like it, anyway.

- With the injuries piling up, in addition to the overall roster on the major AND minor league levels, the 2006-07 Canes are looking an awful lot like the 2002-03 Canes. The only big difference being the win/loss record, which has a few more wins AND a lot less ties.

- I don't think I could ever thank the Los Angeles Kings enough for shipping Sean "Ooooh...I almost fought Ronnie Francis!!*" Avery to the New York Rangers. God, I hate how that guy is now running amuck in the Eastern Conference...

- Hedican and Williams are now out? The hits just keep coming for the Canes and what little of their playoff hopes remain... *sighs*

Current Music: "Wild Wild Life" by the Talking Heads

* - For those who have completely blocked out the 2002-03 season...during a game against the Kings in the latter third of the said season, Avery tried to entice Francis to put up his dukes, yo. Not surprisingly, Ron pushed Sean away in such a manner that made the (now former) King look more-so the idiot he already was AND still is.

To this day, I *still* say that if fisticuffs had occurred between Ron and Sean, the former would have emerged quite victorious. And after seeing this a couple of months ago, there's now more than biasness backing up that statement. ;)

2007-02-14T23:54:00.000-05:00

"He's Broken."

A fair warning in advance to my male readers: The following is probably more of a ladies' kind of thing...but if you wanna chime in, it's all good.

After cruising around various Heroes forums and communities, I cannot help but ponder...

Am I the only one who does not find Sylar "hot"?

For those of you who do not watch Heroes, click here.

Apparently, the thug look is what *really* appeals to quite a few women (presumably). Yes, I think Sylar looks like a thug, as he should, considering he's a SADISTIC villain...that capitalized word being another turn-off, among other things.

As for real life, even out of character, I don't think Zachary Quinto is all that and a bag of chips...but, to quoteth Dennis Miller, that's just my opinion.

On that note, an almost belated Happy Valentine's Day. :D

Current Music: "No More, No More" by Aerosmith

2007-02-13T23:35:00.000-05:00

February 13th, 2007 - Canes vs. Kings: Random Musings and Observations

No, I haven't disappeared...just been a little busy over the last couple of days. The Week In Review for both last week and this week will be posted this upcoming Sunday or Monday.

- This was a boring game...yeah, the Canes dethroned the Kings*, but they didn't stop me from checking on my Heels and Dr. House every five-ten minutes or so.

- *sighs* So...my Heels can beat Dook in Cameron Indoor Stadium, but can't beat the highly mediocre Wolfpack** or the so-so Snack Cakes***? The ACC AND NCAA tournaments are already shaping up to be veeeeeery interesting for my sky blue boys.

- Even the West Coast ads were boring.

- Hope Wallin and Whitney are ok...at least Whitney returned in the second period.

Current Music: "Massachusetts" by The BeeGees

* - THANK YOU CANES for finally getting rid of the creepy "Brindy! Brindy! Brindy!" commercial...despite the corny phrases the new ones sport. ("The Canes Will Dethrone The Kings" and "The Lights Will Go Down On Broadway" (New York Rangers) )

** - I *will* give the Pack credit in at least one regard...if there is any and one game they get up for, it is the UNC game. Something many forget, especially with all of the Dook hype, is that UNC/NC State was THE rivalry for sometime, particularly the 60's-70's, when Dook was not all that and a bag of chips at hoops. ESPECIALLY during the 70's, when Bucky Waters was coach at Dook.

*** - For those who may have forgotten, back during the 2004-05 season, Sean May was asked what he thought a (Virginia Tech) Hokie was. His answer? "Um...a snack cake?"

For the real story behind the Hokies nickname(s), click here.

2007-02-10T02:32:00.000-05:00

Random Crap

- Well, since everybody and their cousin admitted to it on Television Without Pity's Jeopardy! forum, I took the online Jeopardy! test a couple of weeks ago. Don't think I did good enough to get selected for an audition this year. But, be it this year, or sometime in the distant future, if there is one game show I hope to make an appearance on, it's definitely Jeopardy!.

- Believe it or not, got a couple of more drink recipes to share...

I'll start off with an old standby most lovers of the demon drink will be quite familiar with, be it through hearing about it and/or having a taste of it.

Long Island Iced Tea

1/2 oz. Vodka
1/2 oz. Gin
1/2 oz. Rum
1/2 oz. Tequila
1/2-1 oz. Triple Sec
1 oz. (Sweet and) Sour Mix
Shake or stir. (I prefer stir, but like Martinis, it's whichever you feel makes for a better drink.)
Top with Cola. (Coca-Cola being most recommended.)
Garnish with a Lemon Slice. (Optional)

This and Sex On the Beach round out my pair of absolute favorite cocktails. SOtB being great for when I want something sweet, and this being wonderful for when I want something not as sweet (despite its containing cola) and/or with more tangyness. Depending upon how strong you tend to fix your drinks, I only recommend ONLY one or two Long Islanders, for a simple buzz and nothing more, as I prefer anyway.

With the heavy lemon flavor thanks to the Sweet and Sour Mix, I cannot help but wonder if Limoncello (Italian Lemon Liquor) would make for a nifty addition to the Long Islander. Just hafta cut down on the S&SM.

This other drink you are not going to find in most, if not all bartending books...I created it one night not super long ago when I craved a Mai Tai to go with an Asian meal I fixed. And, I wasn't going to let not having all of the required ingredients stop me...

Mock Mai Tai

2 oz. Rum
Equal parts of Pineapple Juice and Orange Juice.
Dash of Cranberry (Cocktail) Juice.
Dash of Grenadine.
1/2 oz. Triple Sec (Optional)
Stir or shake.
If shaken, fill glass with ice, and pour.

Tastes very similar to Sex On the Beach, yet a bit more citrusy, especially with the Orange Juice and Triple Sec. If you like, add a little more Cranberry Juice and/or Grenadine to make for that rather unique Mai Tai flavor. And as I mentioned, this goes GREAT with Asian food, especially of the hot and spicy variety.

- Not that the following is new in the blogging world...but have you seen that new Orville Redenbacher commercial? Actually, there are two versions of it...

Exhibit A: The commercial as it was first presented on the Internet, courtesy of the official Orville Redenbacher (Gourmet) Popcorn site.

Exhibit B: The commercial as it is currently being presented on TV.

Lack of screen recording software aside, note the HUGE difference between the two versions in the syncing of "Orville's" voice. What the h-e-double hockey sticks made the commercial's producers think that making the sound tape seem as if it was straight out of a Godzilla film would enhance the ad?!

Speaking of Godzilla, I pretty much agree with what the overall online community has said about "Orville", or Zombie Orville, as he is more lovingly called: Ohhhhhhh no, they say he's got to go, oh no.

Zombie Orville is uber-creepy. He brings back not-so-fond memories of when I was a wee one, and his visage peering out from the box of microwave (gourmet) popcorn would somehow give me the willies. Yes, as stupid as it sounds now, Orville Redenbacher, at least on the box, was to me what the Quaker Oatmeal guy was/is to Chuckie Finster.

But anyway, not to mention how it is just cold to "bring someone back from the dead" AND ESPECIALLY present them as if they have never died AND ALSO as if they dig iPods (or similar...many have said that's a Creative Zen Orville's holding, then prompting a few to wonder if ConAgra had been planning a MP3 player contest, only to ditch it at the last minute) AND hip-hop. Listen to that drum and bass pumping out from Zombie Orville's headphones...and then watch him grooving to it at the end. I don't know whether to go "Oh my god!" or "Oh brother...".

- Speaking of commercial boogeymen...this happens to be my most favorite ad from this year's Super Bowl:

- Is it just me, or does Mario Lemieux look like he is saying "Pull my finger!" on this Czech Stadion card?

Current Music: "Over My Head" by King's X

2007-02-09T13:05:00.001-05:00

Josef Vasicek Is Going Back To Raleigh, To Raleigh...

...I really think so.

And the 2002-03 Canes Reunion Saga STILL continues. *sighs*

As Dave Barry would say, have aliens from the planet Twinkie invaded Jim Rutherford's head?! Belanger for Big Joe?! Belanger is certainly a faster skater than the Condor. I thought we shipped off Josef for the very fact that he didn't really fit in with Laviolette's (usually) speedy system of play. o_O

So, who are we going after next? Jaroslav Svoboda? Sami Kapanen? Hey...as long as it's not Peter Forsberg. And that's the only decent thing I can say about this overall trend.

Also, Ryan Bayda has been called up from Albany to the big club. Unless we hear otherwise, this appears to not bode well for either Erik Cole and/or Scott Walker, who got hurt in last night's Bruins affair, and are said to potentially have minor injuries.

Current Music: "Walkin' In A Hurricane" by John Fogerty

2007-02-09T12:50:00.000-05:00

February 8th, 2007 - Canes @ Bruins: Random Musings and Observations

- Scary to think that if it had not been for just Scott Walker's throwdown and Ray Whitney's natural hat trick in under two minutes*, the Canes might have fallen to the (pathetic) Teddybears once again. Before those two special events, the Canes were looking like they had reverted back to their good ol' mediocre selves once again.

- FSN South's new Hurricanes Live! thirty minute pregame show made its grand debut last night. Overall, I thought they did a pretty good job...even though John Forslund appeared to be channeling the spirit of Allen Ludden with his new spectacles. o_O

- Remember how I said the NESN guys are not all that bad afterall? Ha. Ha. HA. Between this game and the last game vs. the Poohins, I have heard more Whalers/Hartford and college basketball cracks about the Canes than I have read from still bitter Hartforders online.

Heck, last night, in the first five minutes of the game, the NESN guys immediately resorted to incredibly stupid and quite possibly offensive jokes about Bret Hedican and his highly famous figure skating wife, Kristi Yamaguchi. As the NESN "announcers" did such crap, they were sounding and laughing like thoroughly drunk ninnies, and I let out a "BZUH?!".

The only difference between those dorks and two slobs making fun of Sean Hill's wife, whom I had the misfortune of being behind me at the March 2nd, 2004 Canes game vs. Columbus, is that the NESN guys had to keep the Yamaguchi "jokes" "PG", 'cause afterall, they were on the tee-vee. *rolls her eyes*

- Speaking of drunk ninnies, if I did not know better, I'd swear some Buffalo fans did not take that left turn at Albuquerque and were in attendance at the TD BankNorth Garden (what an awful, AWFUL arena name...even though FleetCenter was a corporate-as-all-get-out name too, at least it was more catchy and rolled off the tongue a lot better than the current monstrosity) according to one Ronnie Franchise at the Score Boards Canes MB...

"Fuller than it was the last couple times I was there, but still well shy of a sellout. Like I predicted yesterday, the Massholes stayed home and it was allllllll college kids for student night. Which meant a crowd completely disinterested in the game or any firm rooting interest. Students arriving in packs up to an hour into the game already pre-drunk, most of them with dates in-tow. And most of them turned around looking and shouting at their friends in other sections for blocs on end without even glancing at the ice, or taking pictures of each other with their camera phones. And their @#$% cell phones...like I care about who broke up or hooked up with so and so and who's having a party tomorrow night. And I especially don't like it when the fast-talker in the BC sweatshirt behind me spits beer droplets all over the place (and on my head) while he's jabbering with his friend back on campus about snowboarding this weekend and about how his "killer" 8-hour-a-week part-time job doesn't allow him to go out enough. I may have also been the only guy in my section wearing an authentic jersey, with cap turned forward instead of backward, sitting quietly with laser-like focus on the game...you know, like a real fan. Not to mention I wasn't sporting the same spiky chia-pet facial hair as the other 37 guys in my section who had the same generic man-child goatee with turned-back baseball cap. And I didn't drag a date wearing three gallons of perfume, makeup, and hairspray out to the game...since nobody cares what you look like if you're spending the whole time staring at the ice like you're supposed to. Would you morons do this if Valentine's Day were a student night, too? And I definitely didn't scream at the Mighty Mites "Hey, kid, I your mom last night, and she was "...and certainly not as the only interest taken all night in what was going on on the ice.

Gah! I'm still a couple years from 30 and I've already moved to "Get off my damn lawn" phase with today's youth. I feel so old. The ignoramus behind me (beer-spitter's friend) was trying to impress his date with his extensive hockey acumen by shouting "Fight!" every time there was an offsides whistle, thinking he could will something into erupting (he of course dissapeared for like an hour when the ACTUAL fight happened, and had no idea it had taken place when he came back). "Dude, last time I was here I saw the Islanders...and there was this wicked brawl with 20 guys pairing off at once...say, is Thornton still on the team? No? When did that happen?" His girlfriend, who did know some hockey, was then telling him about a friend she had who played a season in Canadian juniors, and was talking about the real fighting that goes on there. Not to be upstaged by a girl, Know-It-All cut her off and said..."You mean, like the Providence Bruins junior team...man, those guys fight all the time 'cause they're so pissed they got rejected by the NHL.

"

Yes, a bit long and wordy (is that anything like white and nerdy? sure sounds similar, which just dawned on me o_O)...but quite wonderful how it brings up how stupid A LOT of my peers and younger people are. *sighs and rolls her eyes*

- Uno Chicago Pizzaria and Grill looks a darn great place to eat...even if their one commercial almost made me check the DirecTV program guide to make sure the Canes weren't taking on the Blackhawks instead of the Bruins.

Current Music: "Mother Sky" by Skye Klad (Live Can Cover)

* - For those of you who don't read message boards and/or media guides/yearbooks, Ray Whitney's natural hat trick was not a record breaker for the fastest natural hat trick in NHL history...that honor going to a former Chicago Blackhawk named Bill Mosienko, who potted three goals in twenty-one seconds on March 23rd, 1952. *does her best Ben Stein* Wow.

2007-02-07T23:37:00.000-05:00

GO...HEELS!!

NORTH CAROLINA - 79
DOOK - 73

*does the Meposian Dance of Joy*

Current Music: "The Way You Move" by Outkast

2007-02-07T11:52:00.000-05:00

Babchuk Didn't Do As He Was Told

Anton Babchuk was supposed to be sent down to the Albany River Rats...but, has so far refused to join the AHL team.

As one of the rare few who's never exactly been wooed by this guy, this gives me all the more reason to say "trade his a**". Yes, he has a powerful slapshot...but if you ask me, that seems to be the only thing he's actually worked on. Anton certainly has not worked on his attitude, as this appears to strongly indicate.

The real tell-tale aspect of this situation will be if Anton doesn't show up for Friday's bout between the Rats and Admirals in Norfolk, VA. Something that I think is a high possibility, especially now that Babchuk has been suspended by Jim Rutherford and the Canes.

Current Music: "The Psychedelic Warlords (Disappear In Smoke)" by Hawkwind

Edit as of 12:40 PM: It has dawned on me over the last thirty minutes or so that blaming Babchuk for the said turn of events may be a premature thing to do...especially after reading the following from ChickenParm in the above linked Score Boards thread...

"He may very well have just gone from getting more playing time because of a trade to being shipped out as a part of one. This is very bad form on the part of Babchuk... but I'm also going to express the caveat that I hope management was clear about why the move was being made and what the possibilities were for the next few weeks. If that happened and Babchuk understood (I don't know if there's a language barrier there at all), then count me in on the dogpiling."

Edit as of 1:42 PM: Parmers also points out something quite interesting about Chukker and his 'tude:

"Remember also that Babchuk has a bit of a history with a temper... 2 years ago, he hurled a water bottle at a kid after being heckled in Norfolk."

2007-02-07T00:13:00.000-05:00

February 6th, 2007 - Canes @ Canadiens: Random Musings and Observations

- At the risk of getting my hopes up a little early*, that "Fix the Canes" contest the Raleigh News and Observer started today/yesterday is going to get dated rather quickly if the Canes further extend the play they displayed in the Bell Centre tonight.

- I am more than convinced that hockey broadcasts are so much more fun when done in French. Just as long as Bobby Granger isn't doing the translating...or the announcing.

- Even seeing the commercials done in Francais was a hoot...even though it was rather interesting in an ad or two to hear French being spoken, but also the background song's lyrics being in English. The ad *really* coming to mind in that regard being for a show/concert called "Piano Men" taking place somewhere in Montreal...the background song naturally being Billy Joel's** "Piano Man".

- The way Frankie Kaberle played tonight reminds me that I need to take him off of IR in a couple of a Fantasy Leagues.

- Well, if I am to believe this, it sounds like I missed a good episode of House MD tonight, dagnabit.

Never fails...I get suckered into watching a rotten episode AND the Canes lose in the process. And then, I watch the Canes win AND miss a decent House in the process...I almost just can't win. ;)

Current Music: "First We Take Manhattan" by Leonard Cohen

* - The Canes taught me the hard way to not officially say they're back until they have won at least two-three games in a row...remember that successful Anaheim Duck hunt, AND THEN that New Year's buttkickin' by the Philly Flyboys? Um, yeah...

** - On YouTube, I recently discovered an awesome Billy Joel concert that should SO come to DVD...especially considering that it has some of the best damn songs in the pianist/keyboardist's catalogue...

"My Life"

"The Stranger"

"Movin' Out"

"Only The Good Die Young"

"Just The Way You Are"

And, saving the absolute best (IMnot-soHO) for last...

"Prelude/Angry Young Man"

"Scenes From An Italian Restaurant"

The only disappointment is that the concert doesn't feature "New York State of Mind", my new Billy Joel favorite over the past few weeks. But overall, very, VERY SWEET show...especially with "Prelude/Angry Young Man" and "Scenes...". Also, what a GREAT band Joel had then.

2007-02-06T11:47:00.000-05:00

"Fix the Canes"

The Raleigh News and Observer has come up with a new contest, where they want you to...well, "Fix the Canes".

Oh, to be a fly on the wall when the N&Oers start going through and reading the entries for this thing. I will be more than willing to bet that most, if not all of the responses will be no different from a lot of the prattling I've already read at various message boards. At those places, everybody and their cousin has blamed everyone from David Tanabe, to Andrew Hutchinson, to Jim Rutherford, to Peter Laviolette, to even Rod Brind'Amour for the Canes' Stanley Cup hangover and overall woes this season.

I would LOVE to be proven wrong, and that the winning entries in the contest end up proving that we have some decent and different thinkers (and writers) in the Caniac Nation, as I know we do. But as it stands, I would not be surprised if this contest ends up coming across as if the N&O does not pay attention to the MBs and/or blogs around them.

Current Music: "Sea of Love" by The Honeydrippers

2007-02-05T12:22:00.000-05:00

Stormbringer's Week In Review: January 29th-February 4th, 2007

Again, OUCH!!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2184223.html?menu=news.quirkies

And is its name Garfield?

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2182601.html?menu=news.quirkies

Hey, can't knock them for at least trying to be "different"...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2182644.html?menu=news.quirkies

(I wonder if I'm the only person to have ever heard of the band in that article.)

I'm quite amazed that the pink milk wasn't turned into some kind of Valentine's Day marketing scheme.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2179553.html?menu=news.quirkies

If this doesn't make you go "Awwwwwww!", then you truly have a heart of stone.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2183360.html?menu=news.quirkies

Is it wrong that this article somehow makes me think of the Happy Flowers' "Mom, I Gave the Cat Some Acid"?

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2179155.html?menu=news.quirkies

"It's a nice day for a...GREEN WEDDING!!"

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2177720.html?menu=news.quirkies

Looks like they caught him by the skin of his teeth...literally.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2182916.html?menu=news.quirkies

Obviously, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious makes Mary Poppins feel atrocious.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2182598.html?menu=news.quirkies

Ooh la la...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2180008.html?menu=news.quirkies

Roll over Martha...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2179229.html?menu=news.quirkies

Somehow, I am not at surprised that this gained futher infamy on Ananova...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2182749.html?menu=news.quirkies

The scary thing? They would have somehow learned to do all of that anyway...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2181061.html?menu=news.quirkies

Um, based on the birds and deer we have here eating our winter driveway salt, I suspect it's more than the sheep...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2181287.html?menu=news.quirkies

Well, for once, someone's got a pretty danged good idea...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2184223.html?menu=news.quirkies

What they're not telling us is that it is actually a king-sized poster of Tiny Tim...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2177785.html?menu=news.quirkies

Current Music: "Now You're In Heaven" by Julian Lennon

2007-02-03T15:19:00.000-05:00

New Blogroll Addition Alert

Discovered this one through a posting at The Score Boards Canes MB...

Bish's Blog a.k.a. The Boston Bruins' Official Blog

Current Music: "Warchild" by Jethro Tull

2007-02-02T11:48:00.000-05:00

February 1st, 2007 - Canes vs. Lightning: Random Musings and Observations

- What's the point of gloating about being one of the rare few Caniacs to see this game on TV when the Canes once again stunk so bad that if a TV had "Smell-O-Vision", it would make a room smell even worst than Tuna Helper, a Bloomin' Onion, and Sauerkraut being prepared all at the same time?

- I still think Beef O'Bailey's (Ruby Tuesday's-like restaurant in Florida) looks like a darn good place to eat.

- Andre Roy is the most romantic member of the Lightning?! Way to take the bite out of one of your team's enforcers, Sunshine Sports...

- Speaking of the Lightning and Valentine's coming soon...Hockey Bay, USA was having a bachelor auction up through yesterday.

Ok, it wasn't a bachelor auction...but tell me the truth, THAT did get you to click on the link, didn't it? I know it did... ;P

Current Music: "Melissa" - Fullmetal Alchemist's First Opening AND Closing Theme

2007-02-01T13:48:00.000-05:00

Turner/Cartoon Network/Adult Swim/Williams Street Pooted*

After thinking WAY TOO MUCH about the infamous Aqua Teen Hunger Force "bomb scare" this morning AND reading the various Adult Swim communities about it, I decided to share my two cents about the matter.

For those of you who have somehow not heard about the now infamous incident: Click here first.

And for those of you too lazy to click on the link: Someone in Boston found an electronic "device" that looked like Err, a literally 8-bit character from ATHF, giving the finger. Turns out that such "devices" were scattered all over the city AND nine other cities (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Seattle, Portland (OR), Austin (TX), San Francisco, and Philadelphia) AND are as harmless as your pinky AND were a mere guerilla marketing ploy by Turner/Cartoon Network/Adult Swim/Williams Street to get people to see their (more than likely horrible) ATHF movie coming to theatres in March. Two of the people hired by Turner to put out said "devices" have been arrested and are being held on bond.

Now for my two cents...and I warn you now that you are more than likely going to have to brace yourself...

While I do think they are going a bit far in arresting the people merely hired by Turner/Cartoon Network...for sure, I could not be the only one to have had the brains to see the "bomb scare" coming from a mile away.

Think about it, something a lot of people in the Adult Swim groups I read need to do: You place a lot of random electronics throughout a city, and NOT expect a bomb scare of some proportion whenever they're discovered, be it immediately OR two-three weeks like this instance? I'm sorry, but THAT is dumb, especially in this day and age.

Don't get me wrong, I was AND still am one of those who found the bomb scare involving the homage to the Super Mario Bros. question blocks a few years ago stupid. But, those boxes did not have anything involving electronics. They were just cardboard and holographic paper in most instances.

Now, to make something clear: Yes, I do think Boston and the government are overreacting. BUT, at the same time, I really am not at all surprised by the turn of events AND think that Turner/CN should have known better.

So, in the end, I don't know what scares me more: The fact that I seem to be the only one of the opinion that Turner/Cartoon Network/Adult Swim/Williams Street did not think about every aspect of their campaign to realize that it *could* have been perceived the wrong way. OR, the fact that Aqua Teen Hunger Force has sucked since the folks at Williams Street decided to get rid of the Dr. Weird intros, and apparently, it has not dawned upon Turner/CN/AS/WS that they *really* need to quit beating what is getting to be a dead horse. But, because of this mess, you watch the movie that was(still is) being promoted become #1 at the box office when it's released. Afterall, as that saying goes..."There's no such thing as bad publicity."

Current Music: "Nikki Learns A Song" - Chrono Cross OverClocked Remix

* - If you don't get the title, it comes from a series of billboards advertising Cartoon Network that said "I Pooted." and "I Have A Meat Beard.", and were up over last summer in at least Greensboro, Atlanta, and Rhode Island. After seeing pictures of them in a couple of LJ communities and the UNC Tar Heels board I occasionally read, I finally saw the Greensboro one in person passing through on I-40 when going down for my great aunt's funeral.

2007-01-31T11:31:00.000-05:00

January 30th, 2007 - Canes vs. Leafs: Random Musings and Observations

- Except for just one thing, yesterday/last night really, REALLY sucked, despite the fact that I actually kind of like the Leafs... *dodges rotten veggies*

- Even the "grand return after three weeks of crap" episode of House MD was awful...yeah, the clinic scenes were entertaining. But then, along came some philosophical/"intelligent" discussion BS that made me constantly utter "David Shore, THE CREATOR, wrote THIS?!". I watch TV to be entertained, not be bombarded by emo stuff...if I want emo, I'll go waste twenty bucks on a Coldplay CD, thank you.

Please, PLEASE bring back the "mystery disease of the week" plots...though, for some reason, I feel like that might be asking for too much. *sighs*

Oh, and Wilson still frickin' gets on my nerves.

- Erik Cole's absence last night makes me really wonder if he could be up for a trade. Making that all the more eerie is the fact that over at 850 The Buzz's blog, a week or two ago, I predicted that if Jimmy Rutherford goes for a big gun or two, he might unload Colesey because of his weakened neck.

- Because it needs to be said, especially with the rumors I've been seeing lately: JUST. SAY. NO. TO. FORSBERG.

Current Music: "Stone Free" by Eric Clapton

2007-01-30T12:37:00.000-05:00

Gary Bettman Is Evil

OR, David Stern is evil...you make the call.*

"Everyone has a favorite conspiracy theory about the NBA. Some like the idea that David Stern fixed the 1984 draft lottery. Others favor his supposed secret suspension of a star player for gambling problems.

Mine dates back to the early 1990s, when the NHL was white hot with fans and never better on the ice. Wayne Gretzky was in Los Angeles. Mark Messier was with the New York Rangers, who were on the verge of ending their Stanley Cup drought. Mario Lemieux, Steve Yzerman, Ray Bourque, Patrick Roy and many others were hitting their prime.

Anyone who doesn't think hockey can work in America is forgetting this era. All of a sudden, hockey was challenging, if not beating, the NBA in a number of major U.S. markets – including New York. It's almost impossible to imagine now, but it happened.

As the conspiracy theory goes, Stern sensed the potential trouble in 1993 while the NHL was in search of a new commissioner. So he looked around his own office for someone so incompetent that if they got the job, the NHL would be marginalized by their mismanagement and never again be a threat to the NBA.

Naturally, Stern recommended one of his assistants, Gary Bettman, for the job."

Ever since I became a Canes/NHL/hockey fan in 2002, I have always known about Bettman's coming from the NBA and all. But, I never thought about him coming because of David Stern being worried about "that Canadian sport" ousting his precious band of hoopsters. It is something to think about...afterall, as the article points out, the NHL had a top of the line product before Bettman got his filthy mitts on it.

I am well aware that if it weren't for Bettman and his reign, Raleigh, NC would not have an NHL team to call their own. But, that's the only good thing I can say about the one that so many hockey afficionados "lovingly" call "Buttman"...though, I realize that quite a few Hartforders would not really agree with me on that.

Current Music: "Willie the Pimp" by Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart

* - I love giving my readers a sense of deja vu... ;P

2007-01-29T12:21:00.000-05:00

American Idol Is Evil

OR, ESPN is evil...you make the call.

Per John Saunders on ESPeeN's Sports Reporters:

"I needed a psychic, hypnotist (and he mentioned about 3 other people) just to find the NHLs All-Star game this week which was on Versus. This isn't to mock the coverage that Versus gave it because they did a real good job on the 3rd period. I was only able to watch the 3rd period because I was watching American Idol with my daughters during the first 2 periods. YES, they put the NHL All-Star game opposite the most watched show on TV."

I don't know what flabbergasts me more...how a guy who practically grew up around hockey could watch that crap (even if it was with his daughters...how touching *rolls her eyes*), or how the NHL is pulling at the straws for a decent All-Star Game timeslot. Weeknights certainly do not work...why Bettman thought they would as of this season is way beyond my comprehension (as are a good-sized chunk of the man's ideas). And the NFL, bless their hearts, have basically stormed in and took over the "traditional slot" of the first weekend in February with a little thing called the Super Bowl. What was wrong with the last week in January? There certainly was not anything wrong with it for almost forty years...why the change? NFL, we know you are the most high and mighty sports league and all that crapola...there was no damn good reason for you to muscle in AND take over what was practically the designated weekend for the NHL's big event outside of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Nor is there a damn good reason for TWO FREAKIN' WEEKS of coverage of the Super Bowl, featuring everything from the speculation of who bought sponsorship/ad time, to the players' favorite flavor of Gatorade, to which team plans to watch Honey cartoons* after they win the Lombardi Trophy.

Not to mention that, as much as I like the NHL, even I know that they've never been a threat to the NFL. Hell, not even the MLB or NBA have ever been able to top the Pigskin League. Therefore making the NFL's taking over the NHL's traditional All-Star Game weekend all the more flaming stupid, and really, just plain old...well, evil.

Current Music: "Paint It Black" by The Rolling Stones

* - Major couch potato and/or cartoon geek points to those who get the reference.

2007-01-28T02:07:00.000-05:00

Happy Anniversary!

Why talk about what a highly on and off team the Canes have proven themselves to be in all-out fashion the past two days, when today is a holiday of sorts...at least for moi. ;P

Today is the one year anniversary of the last Canes game I have attended thus far AND quite a special event for this nut...Ron Francis Night. Viva #10!!

In celebration, I have launched a blog to announce, among other things, updates for my Francis collection AND site about it.

Current Music: "Cantaloop" by Us3

2007-01-28T00:52:00.000-05:00

Stormbringer's Weeks In Review: January 15th-28th, 2007

Does it really make me mean to admit that the first thought to enter my mind upon reading this article was how there once were, ironically enough, Tom and Jerry jam jars?

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2174985.html?menu=news.quirkies

Even though I've never heard of it, I am a bit surprised that Stop! Or My Mom Will Shoot didn't climb any higher on the list. I'm also shocked that Titanic found its way onto there...where's You Got Served, Plan Nine From Outer Space, and/or Manos: Hands of Fate?!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2164678.html?menu=news.quirkies

Hmmmmm...the Cesar Romero Memorial Church? It'd have a nice ring to it, anyway...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2173303.html?menu=news.quirkies

I don't know which is worst...being the girl who dropped the mirror OR the man who owned it.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2174421.html?menu=news.quirkies

I don't think they could make it anymore obvious that Ananova is based in Great Britain/United Kingdom than with that headline...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2174256.html?menu=news.quirkies

I hope the incident made the man feel younger...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2173153.html?menu=news.quirkies

I wish the Mucinex...well...blob would do what's being described here to get his stupid AND nasty ads off the air.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2170141.html?menu=news.quirkies

I wish they said what some of the other ideas were...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2173316.html?menu=news.quirkies

I wonder if the "Asbo" looks like a pointed finger with wings...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2171612.html?menu=news.quirkies

If this thing (amazingly) works, I hope it doesn't play a "cutesy" theme song about your family and/or life every time it starts up.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2170126.html?menu=news.quirkies

Note to self: Never wear my Pittsburgh Penguins hoodie to York, England.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2170192.html?menu=news.quirkies

Of. All. The. Flippin'. Articles. To. Have. A. Picture. Accompanying. It. O_O (Possible PG-13/Work Safe/Bad Taste Warning)

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2168888.html?menu=news.quirkies

Only on Ananova AND with Manchester United...I highly doubt that such a thing happening with even Detroit Red Wing or New York Ranger tix would garner such attention.

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2170128.html?menu=news.quirkies

OUCH!!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2173347.html?menu=news.quirkies

Sausage! Sausage! Sauerkraut! Sauerkraut! Pepsi! Pepsi!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2172030.html?menu=news.quirkies

So...an article about "Fart Prevention Underwear" gets a picture, BUT NOT THIS?! Oy vey...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2161644.html?menu=news.quirkies

So much for Friar Tuck being one of his Merry Men...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2174468.html?menu=news.quirkies

Somehow, I am not surprised, especially considering all of the money that must have gone into that project...

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2172271.html?menu=news.quirkies

Um...forgive my ignorance, but WHO THE HECK is Gordon Brown?!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2173167.html?menu=news.quirkies

Well...it's not every day you can say you were involved in the very first crash on the road that was made because of you and your group. (Say that five times fast.)

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2174314.html?menu=news.quirkies

WEREN'T given an opportunity to console her?! You had fifteen FREAKIN' minutes!!

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2173102.html?menu=news.quirkies

When football/soccer is involved, nothing shocks me. (PG-13/Work Safe Warning)

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2168696.html?menu=news.quirkies

Where's Spuds McKenzie when we *really* need him?

http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_2171638.html?menu=news.quirkies

Current Music: "(Love Me Like Music) I'll Be Your Song" by Heart