It's been a while, I've been kind of busy.
Today marks the fifth anniversary of the invasion of Iraq. Twelve hundred years ago, Baghdad was the center of knowledge...today, it's the center of despair. Learn more about historical Baghdad.
This week, there has been a big to-do about comments made by Jeremiah Wright, retired pastor at the Trinity United Church for Christ in Chicago. Wright also happened to be an advisor to Senator Barak Obama. Wright had made comments about the attacks on September 11th, 2001, saying "the chickens have come home to roost." Now I am not an apologist, "Loose Change" freak, or anything like that, but I don't think what Pastor Wright said was completely off base. What is the alternative? The hijackers flew the planes because they hated America's freedom? No dice, Mr. Bush, but thanks for dumbing it down for the simpletons. I digress. The uproar over Pastor Wright's comments has thrust religion to a more prominent role in the presidential campaign. Coincidentally (or not?), Senator McCain is in Israel, trying to court Jewish favor and kowtowing to the evangelicals in the Republican party. Senator Obama gave a speech yesterday talking about how race has become an issue, and although he touched on religion, he left quite a bit unsaid. Now I'm NOT going to pull an Umar Lee and make up some speech that I wish Senator Obama said. What I do know is that multiple efforts have been made by various Muslim organizations to contact the Senator through his campaign, but he has yet to respond. This leads to a potentially scary scenario for American Muslims. Senator McCain is going out of his way to impress Evangelicals, which by definition means he will go out of his way to avoid Muslims. Senator Obama, who is rumored to be a "secret Muslim", will do everything to prove to people he is NOT Muslim, meaning he won't meet with or even take any calls from leaders like Dr. Ingrid Matson, Hamza Yusuf, or even Keith Ellison. The prospects for the 2008 election seem to getting bleaker by the day.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Detroit Lions Trade Shaun Rogers
Today's post will be under Sports
The Detroit Lions traded Shaun Rogers yesterday. Initially, they traded him to Cincinnati for a 3rd and 5th round pick, which seemed pretty cheap. For (currently) unknown reasons, this trade didn't go through, but the Cleveland stepped up and offered Leigh Bodden and a 3rd round pick. I think the Lions got a decent deal for a player they no longer wanted. Shaun Rogers has immense talent, but he has always had issues with his weight and motivation. One could argue these problems are one and the same. If he couldn't respond to Rod Marinelli, who is apparently a master motivator, then Rogers is doomed to stay what he is, an overweight, overpaid whiner who shows just enough flashes of brilliance to tease fans and keep us interested.
Thankfully, the Lions get only one draft pick in this deal, which means less chance for Matt Millen to screw up. His draft record is spotty at best. Everyone knows about all the wide receivers the Lions have drafted in the first round over the last few years, but I would argue that the later rounds of the draft are more important (rounds 3-7). These are the rounds in which teams are able to fill their rosters with capable back-ups, special teamers, and occasional starters. The Lions have had trouble getting starters with their early picks, let alone finding any serviceable players in later rounds.
Lions Draft History
The Lions have had problems with people named Rogers over the last 20 years:
Darryl - head coach 1985 - 1988. Won 18 games in 3-plus seasons. Fired after a home-loss to Tampa Bay and replaced by Wayne Fontes. Famous quote - "What does a head coach have to do to get fired around here."
Reggie - First round draft pick (7th overall) in 1987. A standout defensive end at the University of Washington, he plays in six games in his rookie season. During his second season, on October 20, 1988, Rogers is driving drunk, runs a red light, and hits a car, killing three teens in Pontiac. He served a little over a year before being released. He later played for Buffalo and Tampa Bay. Career Sacks: 2 (which is one less than the number of people he killed).
Charles - One of the most publicized recruits from Saginaw, he went to Michigan State where he wowed people with his speed. He won the Biletnikoff award as the top college receiver in 2002. He ran a 4.28 40 at the combine! He was selected second overall by the Lions and had a good start to his rookie campaign catching 22 passes and 3 TDs. He broke his collarbone in practice and was out after the 5th game of the year. In 2004, he broke his collarbone (again) on the third play from scrimmage. In 2005, he served a 4 game suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Although the identity of the substance was never revealed, it was believed to be marijuana. He played sparingly upon his return and was cut before the 2006 season. He has not played a down of pro football since.
Shaun - Had a solid career at the University of Texas, drafted int he second round in 2001. He was tabbed higher but slipped because of injury issues. He played well at times for the Lions and even made it to two pro bowls (2004, 2005). His weight has always been an issue. He was listed at 340 last season but is reportedly closer to 390. He served a four-game suspension in 2006 for violating the NFL substance-abuse policy. He took an illegal stimulant/appetite-suppressant. His weight has resulted in knee injuries and problems with endurance. He can make spectacular plays, such as intercepting a pass and returning it 66 yards (against the Broncos last season) punctuated with a somersault in the end zone.
Rogers Touchdown
The youtube hilite I couldn't find was Shaun Rodgers sitting on the sideline on the second play of the fourth quarter against the Cowboys, when Marion Barber scored on 4th and goal from the 1.
Rogers also has the most blocked kicks in the NFL since his rookie year (at least 10). Overall, he was a good and exciting player, and it's unfair to lump him with the other Rogers on this list, but because he didn't live up to his potential, he
One other note, coach Marinelli is a defensive-line wizard. He got rid of James Hall last year, who was just cut by the Rams. He has now gotten rid of Shaun Rogers. Perhaps the coach knows something we don't. On the flip side, coach Rod kept Kalimba Edwards and convinced Millen to overpay Cory Redding.
If we use the assumption that Shaun Rogers will play next season like he did the last, meaning he has some awesome moments and others where he is on the sideline at key moments, this is how I would rate the trade: If Bodden can start at least 10 games this year, I say the Lions break even on the trade. If they can draft a player who can actually make the roster and make a contribution, I say the Lions are out ahead.
As always, your comments and feedback are appreciated.
The Detroit Lions traded Shaun Rogers yesterday. Initially, they traded him to Cincinnati for a 3rd and 5th round pick, which seemed pretty cheap. For (currently) unknown reasons, this trade didn't go through, but the Cleveland stepped up and offered Leigh Bodden and a 3rd round pick. I think the Lions got a decent deal for a player they no longer wanted. Shaun Rogers has immense talent, but he has always had issues with his weight and motivation. One could argue these problems are one and the same. If he couldn't respond to Rod Marinelli, who is apparently a master motivator, then Rogers is doomed to stay what he is, an overweight, overpaid whiner who shows just enough flashes of brilliance to tease fans and keep us interested.
Thankfully, the Lions get only one draft pick in this deal, which means less chance for Matt Millen to screw up. His draft record is spotty at best. Everyone knows about all the wide receivers the Lions have drafted in the first round over the last few years, but I would argue that the later rounds of the draft are more important (rounds 3-7). These are the rounds in which teams are able to fill their rosters with capable back-ups, special teamers, and occasional starters. The Lions have had trouble getting starters with their early picks, let alone finding any serviceable players in later rounds.
Lions Draft History
The Lions have had problems with people named Rogers over the last 20 years:
Darryl - head coach 1985 - 1988. Won 18 games in 3-plus seasons. Fired after a home-loss to Tampa Bay and replaced by Wayne Fontes. Famous quote - "What does a head coach have to do to get fired around here."
Reggie - First round draft pick (7th overall) in 1987. A standout defensive end at the University of Washington, he plays in six games in his rookie season. During his second season, on October 20, 1988, Rogers is driving drunk, runs a red light, and hits a car, killing three teens in Pontiac. He served a little over a year before being released. He later played for Buffalo and Tampa Bay. Career Sacks: 2 (which is one less than the number of people he killed).
Charles - One of the most publicized recruits from Saginaw, he went to Michigan State where he wowed people with his speed. He won the Biletnikoff award as the top college receiver in 2002. He ran a 4.28 40 at the combine! He was selected second overall by the Lions and had a good start to his rookie campaign catching 22 passes and 3 TDs. He broke his collarbone in practice and was out after the 5th game of the year. In 2004, he broke his collarbone (again) on the third play from scrimmage. In 2005, he served a 4 game suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Although the identity of the substance was never revealed, it was believed to be marijuana. He played sparingly upon his return and was cut before the 2006 season. He has not played a down of pro football since.
Shaun - Had a solid career at the University of Texas, drafted int he second round in 2001. He was tabbed higher but slipped because of injury issues. He played well at times for the Lions and even made it to two pro bowls (2004, 2005). His weight has always been an issue. He was listed at 340 last season but is reportedly closer to 390. He served a four-game suspension in 2006 for violating the NFL substance-abuse policy. He took an illegal stimulant/appetite-suppressant. His weight has resulted in knee injuries and problems with endurance. He can make spectacular plays, such as intercepting a pass and returning it 66 yards (against the Broncos last season) punctuated with a somersault in the end zone.
Rogers Touchdown
The youtube hilite I couldn't find was Shaun Rodgers sitting on the sideline on the second play of the fourth quarter against the Cowboys, when Marion Barber scored on 4th and goal from the 1.
Rogers also has the most blocked kicks in the NFL since his rookie year (at least 10). Overall, he was a good and exciting player, and it's unfair to lump him with the other Rogers on this list, but because he didn't live up to his potential, he
One other note, coach Marinelli is a defensive-line wizard. He got rid of James Hall last year, who was just cut by the Rams. He has now gotten rid of Shaun Rogers. Perhaps the coach knows something we don't. On the flip side, coach Rod kept Kalimba Edwards and convinced Millen to overpay Cory Redding.
If we use the assumption that Shaun Rogers will play next season like he did the last, meaning he has some awesome moments and others where he is on the sideline at key moments, this is how I would rate the trade: If Bodden can start at least 10 games this year, I say the Lions break even on the trade. If they can draft a player who can actually make the roster and make a contribution, I say the Lions are out ahead.
As always, your comments and feedback are appreciated.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
My experience on SkyBus
Today's post will fall under travel.
Last week, I went to a medical conference in Anaheim, CA. I had the opportunity to fly the new start-up airline SkyBus out of C0lumbus, OH. For those of you not familiar with SkyBus, they are a no-frills airline that offers at least 10 seats on every flight for $10 (plus taxes). As the plane fills, the price per seat escalates. They are able to keep fares low by taking different cost-cutting measures, such as automating the entire ticket-purchase process, using stairs to board and deboard the plane (instead of skywalks), and flying in and out of less-congested airports. They use a similar model to European airlines such as RyanAir. Since they are privately held, I don't have any idea as to how well their business model is working; however, they have expanded, which makes be believe they are becoming profitable.
These are some of my observations on the flight:
1. There is very little leg-room. I am a hair over 5'10" tall, and my knees were up against the seat in front of me.
2. The airline staff seems to be friendly and helpful.
3. The check-in process is all done on-line and is very efficient if you are taking carry-on baggage only. However, if one is checking bags in, the process is cumbersome. Even though you pre-pay to check bags, there are no skycabs at the curb.
4. You definitely get thirsty on the plane, so you will need to shell out at least $2 for a bottle of water, unless you can sneak a couple on board (buy at the airport AFTER going through security)
If one were to fly SkyBus, these are my reccomendations:
1. If you are able to plan your trip in advance, you will be able to get a cheap fare. The $10 tickets go quickly, but there are other cheap tickets available. If you sign up, you will receive an e-mail from the airline when new tickets go on sale, and you can snatch up the cheapest seats.
2. If you are flying alone or without kids, consider paying $10 for "priority boarding". THis will ensure you get an exit row with adequate leg room.
3. If you are flying with young children, DO NOT worry about getting "priority boarding", as you will get to board right after the first group.
4. Bring something to read. The only item available for reading on board is a small catalog of gift items available for purchase on the plane.
5. DO NOT MISS YOUR Flight. SkyBus has a "no cancellation" policy, which means if you miss your flight, you can't rebook. You lose the money you've spent, and you have to buy a new ticket.
Overall, I had a positive experience and will fly SkyBus in the future. Their prices are very reasonable and I don't mind some minor inconvenience given the amount of money I saved.
Your thoughts and opinions are always welcome
Last week, I went to a medical conference in Anaheim, CA. I had the opportunity to fly the new start-up airline SkyBus out of C0lumbus, OH. For those of you not familiar with SkyBus, they are a no-frills airline that offers at least 10 seats on every flight for $10 (plus taxes). As the plane fills, the price per seat escalates. They are able to keep fares low by taking different cost-cutting measures, such as automating the entire ticket-purchase process, using stairs to board and deboard the plane (instead of skywalks), and flying in and out of less-congested airports. They use a similar model to European airlines such as RyanAir. Since they are privately held, I don't have any idea as to how well their business model is working; however, they have expanded, which makes be believe they are becoming profitable.
These are some of my observations on the flight:
1. There is very little leg-room. I am a hair over 5'10" tall, and my knees were up against the seat in front of me.
2. The airline staff seems to be friendly and helpful.
3. The check-in process is all done on-line and is very efficient if you are taking carry-on baggage only. However, if one is checking bags in, the process is cumbersome. Even though you pre-pay to check bags, there are no skycabs at the curb.
4. You definitely get thirsty on the plane, so you will need to shell out at least $2 for a bottle of water, unless you can sneak a couple on board (buy at the airport AFTER going through security)
If one were to fly SkyBus, these are my reccomendations:
1. If you are able to plan your trip in advance, you will be able to get a cheap fare. The $10 tickets go quickly, but there are other cheap tickets available. If you sign up, you will receive an e-mail from the airline when new tickets go on sale, and you can snatch up the cheapest seats.
2. If you are flying alone or without kids, consider paying $10 for "priority boarding". THis will ensure you get an exit row with adequate leg room.
3. If you are flying with young children, DO NOT worry about getting "priority boarding", as you will get to board right after the first group.
4. Bring something to read. The only item available for reading on board is a small catalog of gift items available for purchase on the plane.
5. DO NOT MISS YOUR Flight. SkyBus has a "no cancellation" policy, which means if you miss your flight, you can't rebook. You lose the money you've spent, and you have to buy a new ticket.
Overall, I had a positive experience and will fly SkyBus in the future. Their prices are very reasonable and I don't mind some minor inconvenience given the amount of money I saved.
Your thoughts and opinions are always welcome
Welcome to my Blog
As-salamu alaikum, hello, and welcome!
I have decided to start my own blog. Why? well, since I have time to kill, and I spend hours writing e-mails and texting, I thought, why not make something less informal than those media, why not type things out so the whole world can read my thoughts. What topics will I cover? Well, I will start by being a general interest blog, covering topics from News, Medicine, Sports, Politics, TV & Entertainment, Travel, Parenting, sort of like the newspaper, minus all the obituaries and classifieds, although if I have something to sell, you will read about it here. Your feedback is appreciated.
I have decided to start my own blog. Why? well, since I have time to kill, and I spend hours writing e-mails and texting, I thought, why not make something less informal than those media, why not type things out so the whole world can read my thoughts. What topics will I cover? Well, I will start by being a general interest blog, covering topics from News, Medicine, Sports, Politics, TV & Entertainment, Travel, Parenting, sort of like the newspaper, minus all the obituaries and classifieds, although if I have something to sell, you will read about it here. Your feedback is appreciated.
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