It's good to see that poor speaking skills run in the family. Some people want to see the Plain family out of the daily news. Frankly, that would be robbing the world of some of the most delightful hillbilly antics since the cancellation of the Beverly Hillbilly's.
"And so finally, my best friend just, like, blurted it out. And it was just, like -- I don't even remember it because it was just, like, something I don't want to remember."
-Bristol Palin
"I'd love to [be] an advocate to prevent teen pregnancy because it's not, like, a situation that you would want to strive for, I guess."
-Bristol Palin
(by the way, the origin of her name is based on Sarah being a big fan of Sports Center and that's the name of the city that ESPN has its headquarters. Look, I like Sports Center too, but I am not about to go name my kid Scott Van Pelt Brockmyer.)
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Monday, February 16, 2009
Presidents Day Brew
As some of you may know, I recently took up brewing my own beer as a hobby. Today, I started brewing a new recipe, Blueberry Irish Stout. I took a can of blueberry's in light syrup, puréed them and mixed them with the Irish stout mix. According to my calculations this should yield 2 liters of 4.7% beer. It should be fully ready, bottled and carbonated on March 12th
Monday, February 9, 2009
It's Time to Stop Complaining and Actually Change
I've got something to get off of my chest. I am really tired of hearing people complain about the new presidential administration. Obama has been the President for less than a month and already people are complaining. He's not working fast enough, he's being too nice to republicans, he's not being bipartisan, he hasn't changed anything. Are you serious? Really, America, really? We have the worst president in modern history for the last eight years and it takes everyone 7 years before they start to complain about him. But, we expect this new guy to fix it in less than a month? I'm sorry, I'm not buying it.
Obama was very straightforward from the get go that transformation would not happen overnight. I guess he probably should have said it won't happen over a month either. The country's problems are multiple and all of them are extremely complicated. He has to walk a fine line between courting bipartisan support while also doing the things that he believes are necessary to get this country back on track, namely following more democratic principals. He's not going to please everyone, but he can't just write off the republicans. Clearly he has to be moderate.
We can all agree, this country is in big trouble. Everyday more and more jobs are lost, the housing market is pretty much dead, the deficit is unbelievable, our reliance on oil is inexcusable, we have two ongoing wars, and the planet is warming causing more and more natural catastrophes. These problems will take years, if not decades to solve (or in many cases simply adjust to). The 90's are over. The early 00's are over. The world has changed and this country must change with it. We cannot assume that we can do so quickly. It will take time, patience and resolve, but more than that it will take unity. The country has to unite. And like it or not Obama is the leader of this country. If we are truly going to change this country's direction we have to unite behind him. But, we cannot simply think that it's Obama's job to change everything. We need to understand that WE have to change things. Yes, Obama is a figure of change and I don't doubt that he will do everything he can to change this country. But, the American people need to understand we have a role in this. Our role is far more significant in creating this change than Obama's. We can't just sit back and continue to complain. The government now supports change, but the people it represents have to do the work. So instead of complaining think about what you can do to help facilitate these necissary transformations; stop being divisive and unhelpful and think about what you can do for your country.
This nation has missed out on 8 years of world changes because the last administration refused to believe that the country needed any modifications. If nothing else Obama has already done more than they did in those 8 years; he's acknowledged this need and has asked the American people to join him in helping us catch up with the rest of the world and become a leader once more. The first step is to stop complaining and do something.
Obama was very straightforward from the get go that transformation would not happen overnight. I guess he probably should have said it won't happen over a month either. The country's problems are multiple and all of them are extremely complicated. He has to walk a fine line between courting bipartisan support while also doing the things that he believes are necessary to get this country back on track, namely following more democratic principals. He's not going to please everyone, but he can't just write off the republicans. Clearly he has to be moderate.
We can all agree, this country is in big trouble. Everyday more and more jobs are lost, the housing market is pretty much dead, the deficit is unbelievable, our reliance on oil is inexcusable, we have two ongoing wars, and the planet is warming causing more and more natural catastrophes. These problems will take years, if not decades to solve (or in many cases simply adjust to). The 90's are over. The early 00's are over. The world has changed and this country must change with it. We cannot assume that we can do so quickly. It will take time, patience and resolve, but more than that it will take unity. The country has to unite. And like it or not Obama is the leader of this country. If we are truly going to change this country's direction we have to unite behind him. But, we cannot simply think that it's Obama's job to change everything. We need to understand that WE have to change things. Yes, Obama is a figure of change and I don't doubt that he will do everything he can to change this country. But, the American people need to understand we have a role in this. Our role is far more significant in creating this change than Obama's. We can't just sit back and continue to complain. The government now supports change, but the people it represents have to do the work. So instead of complaining think about what you can do to help facilitate these necissary transformations; stop being divisive and unhelpful and think about what you can do for your country.
This nation has missed out on 8 years of world changes because the last administration refused to believe that the country needed any modifications. If nothing else Obama has already done more than they did in those 8 years; he's acknowledged this need and has asked the American people to join him in helping us catch up with the rest of the world and become a leader once more. The first step is to stop complaining and do something.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Fantasy Basketball Team
Recently, Kaiti's brothers invited me to join their fantasy basketball league. I've been trying to think of a good name and of course awesome team colors for my newly formed team. I want something classic yet corny. Here are a few of the ones I have come up with. (note: Goodyear is where Kaiti and I are moving to).
-The Goodyear Beer Baron’s - Team colors: Two shades of white and golden brown.
-The Goodyear Gorillas - Team colors: Green, and golden yellow.
-The Goodyear God Warriors - White, gold, and black.
-Dick's Bird Serpents - Blue, orange, and black.
-The U.S. Grants - Union blue and gold.
-Goodyear Pillagers - Purple and white.
-Richard's Mighty Spaniels - Brown and white.
-Goodyear Gingerbread Men - Golden brown, white, and red.
That's all I have. If you prefer one over another let me know. Go ahead and suggest some too.
Friday, January 16, 2009
My Favorite Movies of 2008
Okay, admittedly I did not get out to the theaters all that much during 2008. I was after all planning a wedding, moving, holding my first legitimate job, traveling etc. That being said, of the movies I saw this year I have compiled a list of my favorite movies.
10. The Happening - Once a year there is inevitably a movie that comes along where you literally have to stop and say, "My god, that was actually made." This year, that film was 'The Happening'. This movie goes far beyond bad. It's like a perfect storm of awful. Clichéd and horrible writing don't even begin to tell the whole convoluted story. The stale acting is so bad it's almost breathtaking. So you may ask why I would put it on this list. Well, honestly, no other movie made me laugh quite as much as this one did.
9. Quantum of Solace - James Bond is back in this action-packed 2008 flick. If you're looking for high art and a deep, thought provoking plot, you've come to the wrong place. Why would you be looking for those things in a Bond movie in the first place? If you want an enjoyable popcorn movie with great action sequences, sharp dialogue and an awesome opening credit sequence, than this is the movie for you.
8. Harold - To be honest, I didn't even know this movie existed until it wound up on Netflix instant watch. But, it's an enjoyable off color comedy that deserves a chance. While I'm not really a fan of Spencer Breslin, his depiction of an outcast teen with early onset male-pattern baldness is hilarious.
7. Yes Man - This movie was a total surprise to me. I went in expecting nothing more than your average Jim Carey comedy, but I ended up really enjoying it. Sure, it's a premise movie. But, it manages to keep the premise fresh and funny. Most of the characters are pretty likeable as well. But, perhaps the best part of this movie is that it's not heavy handed. Most of Carey's most recent work feels the need to hammer home a lesson you already know. While this one certainly has a moral, the screen writer didn't feel the need to beat you over the head with sappy dialogue for the last quarter of the movie. While it certainly has its flaws, it's one you should check out.
6. Pineapple Express - If you didn't like '40 Year Old Virgin' or 'Half-Baked' this one probably isn't for you. In this hilarious take on buddy action movies Seth Rogan and James Franco are at the top of their game as two social rejects that learn to embrace their friendship (and weed). Sure, it’s sophomoric and unsophisticated, but I don't pretend to be anything but that myself.
5. Tropic Thunder - Clearly 2008 was the year of the comedy. Again, this is a flawed movie. It had tremendous potential and only reached it on occasion. However, it is still a success in my book. Rank with satire this movie holds nothing sacred and is an enjoyable way to spend an evening. While some of the actors fall flat (Jack Black) Stiller and Robert Downey Jr. are flawless. The opening fake trailers alone earned it a spot on my favorite list.
4. Iron Man - I'm no fan of the Iron Man comics. I'd much rather read Spiderman or the X-Men. But this movie was awesome. Why? Robert Downey Jr. Yes, the special effects are cool and the plot is pretty good as far as super hero movies go, but the movie reaches another level because of its lead actor. His playful portrayal of playboy Tony Stark is beyond charismatic and almost iconic. I can't remember ever liking a character that much.
3. Quarantine - Everyone knows I am a sucker for zombie movies. I like them all, no matter how bad they are. But a zombie movie that also happens to be good? I'm all over it. Essentially an American duplicate of the Spanish film [REC] this movie ratchets up in intensity with each passing second. It's a roller coaster ride from start to finish. Normally I dislike the handheld 'Cloverfield' type of camera work, but in this film it works. If you're looking for a good horror film, look no further. This is a must watch.
2. W. - Oliver Stone's bio pic of the 43rd President is wonderful. In a sense he goes out of his way to give George W. Bush a fair trial in regards to his failed presidency. He paints him as a tragic figure, unaware of reality and blindly following those around him while trying to trace his path to such a high office. However, what's truly remarkable about this film are its performances. Josh Brolin captures Bush and his mannerisms perfectly while the supporting cast not only looks their roles but nail the characters. Oliver Stone may have been too soft on Bush, but it's still an intriguing glimpse at the man who is about to leave office after nearly destroying this country.
1. The Dark Knight - This movie surpasses its genre. It's far more than a superhero film and much more than an action film. It's technically flawless and benefits from the wonderful performances of Christian Bale and the late Heath Ledger. It tackles philosophical and political questions such as terrorism, domestic surveillance and hope and it is nothing short of a modern masterpiece that will keep you entertained despite its long run time.
10. The Happening - Once a year there is inevitably a movie that comes along where you literally have to stop and say, "My god, that was actually made." This year, that film was 'The Happening'. This movie goes far beyond bad. It's like a perfect storm of awful. Clichéd and horrible writing don't even begin to tell the whole convoluted story. The stale acting is so bad it's almost breathtaking. So you may ask why I would put it on this list. Well, honestly, no other movie made me laugh quite as much as this one did.
9. Quantum of Solace - James Bond is back in this action-packed 2008 flick. If you're looking for high art and a deep, thought provoking plot, you've come to the wrong place. Why would you be looking for those things in a Bond movie in the first place? If you want an enjoyable popcorn movie with great action sequences, sharp dialogue and an awesome opening credit sequence, than this is the movie for you.
8. Harold - To be honest, I didn't even know this movie existed until it wound up on Netflix instant watch. But, it's an enjoyable off color comedy that deserves a chance. While I'm not really a fan of Spencer Breslin, his depiction of an outcast teen with early onset male-pattern baldness is hilarious.
7. Yes Man - This movie was a total surprise to me. I went in expecting nothing more than your average Jim Carey comedy, but I ended up really enjoying it. Sure, it's a premise movie. But, it manages to keep the premise fresh and funny. Most of the characters are pretty likeable as well. But, perhaps the best part of this movie is that it's not heavy handed. Most of Carey's most recent work feels the need to hammer home a lesson you already know. While this one certainly has a moral, the screen writer didn't feel the need to beat you over the head with sappy dialogue for the last quarter of the movie. While it certainly has its flaws, it's one you should check out.
6. Pineapple Express - If you didn't like '40 Year Old Virgin' or 'Half-Baked' this one probably isn't for you. In this hilarious take on buddy action movies Seth Rogan and James Franco are at the top of their game as two social rejects that learn to embrace their friendship (and weed). Sure, it’s sophomoric and unsophisticated, but I don't pretend to be anything but that myself.
5. Tropic Thunder - Clearly 2008 was the year of the comedy. Again, this is a flawed movie. It had tremendous potential and only reached it on occasion. However, it is still a success in my book. Rank with satire this movie holds nothing sacred and is an enjoyable way to spend an evening. While some of the actors fall flat (Jack Black) Stiller and Robert Downey Jr. are flawless. The opening fake trailers alone earned it a spot on my favorite list.
4. Iron Man - I'm no fan of the Iron Man comics. I'd much rather read Spiderman or the X-Men. But this movie was awesome. Why? Robert Downey Jr. Yes, the special effects are cool and the plot is pretty good as far as super hero movies go, but the movie reaches another level because of its lead actor. His playful portrayal of playboy Tony Stark is beyond charismatic and almost iconic. I can't remember ever liking a character that much.
3. Quarantine - Everyone knows I am a sucker for zombie movies. I like them all, no matter how bad they are. But a zombie movie that also happens to be good? I'm all over it. Essentially an American duplicate of the Spanish film [REC] this movie ratchets up in intensity with each passing second. It's a roller coaster ride from start to finish. Normally I dislike the handheld 'Cloverfield' type of camera work, but in this film it works. If you're looking for a good horror film, look no further. This is a must watch.
2. W. - Oliver Stone's bio pic of the 43rd President is wonderful. In a sense he goes out of his way to give George W. Bush a fair trial in regards to his failed presidency. He paints him as a tragic figure, unaware of reality and blindly following those around him while trying to trace his path to such a high office. However, what's truly remarkable about this film are its performances. Josh Brolin captures Bush and his mannerisms perfectly while the supporting cast not only looks their roles but nail the characters. Oliver Stone may have been too soft on Bush, but it's still an intriguing glimpse at the man who is about to leave office after nearly destroying this country.
1. The Dark Knight - This movie surpasses its genre. It's far more than a superhero film and much more than an action film. It's technically flawless and benefits from the wonderful performances of Christian Bale and the late Heath Ledger. It tackles philosophical and political questions such as terrorism, domestic surveillance and hope and it is nothing short of a modern masterpiece that will keep you entertained despite its long run time.
Honorable mentions: Hamlet 2, Forgetting Sarah Marshall
(Note: I didn't put Frost/Nixon on this list because it didn't come out until December 25th. That qualifies it for 2009).
Predictions for the 09 NBA Playoffs
The 2008/2009 NBA season is almost half way over. So I thought I’d try and predict which teams will make it into the playoffs and where they will be seeded. Let’s start off with the Easter Conference.
8. New Jersey – Yes, right now they’re 7th in the east, but I think Philadelphia will end up ahead of them, thus knocking them to the 8th spot. Milwaukee will be right there with them, but the way Devin Harris and Brooke Lopez are playing I think they’ll still make the playoffs.
7. Philadelphia – They will knock NJ out of the 7th spot, but won’t go much higher than that. I think it’d be hard to catch up with teams ahead of them considering they will still need adjustment once Elton Brand is back in the lineup.
6. Miami – Dwayne Wade can only carry you so far and the 6th spot is pretty damn far. Michael Beasley will improve and they may get some more help if they end up trading Marion before the deadline, hopefully in the form of a big.
5. Atlanta – It’s Atlanta, I’m sorry, I just can’t see them any higher than this despite how well they played the first half of the season. I don’t know if Mike Bibby can keep playing at this level, but they definitely have enough to get the 5th or possibly 4th spot.
4. Detroit – Okay, I’ll admit, I don’t know what to think of this team. They could go on a tear given how much talent they have and still catch up to the 3rd spot. But they just look lost out there. They have no identity after trading Chauncey and the chemistry is definitely not what it should be. But, when you have Rip, Iverson, Sheed, and Stuckey I don’t think you can slip too far. They won’t go far in the playoffs, but I think it’s safe to say they’ll be the 4th or 5th spot.
3. Orlando – This is a great team. Unfortunately for them there are two better teams ahead of them. I expect them to keep rolling, but Boston has already caught up and Cleveland will stay ahead of them.
2. Boston – They have struggled mightily the last few weeks and they definitely don’t have the same swagger they once did. Their bench is a big issue and I think they’re going to have to make a deal before the trade deadline. But, they still have KG, Paul and Allen. They’re going to be okay. Besides, they’ve shown they can put a gigantic run together if they need to. But I think Cleveland will still squeak out with the number 1 spot.
1. Cleveland – At the beginning of this season I was a huge doubter of this team. I thought adding Mo was a good move, but didn’t make this team that much better. Boy was I wrong. James is playing out of his mind (thankfully I picked him up in my fantasy league). They’re playing good defense and are unbeatable at home. King James will carry them to the number one spot; he simply wants it more than the Celtics do.
I expect the conference playoffs to go a little something like this:
First Round:
Cleveland will easily beat the 8th seed Nets, probably in a sweep or at the most 5 games.
Boston will take care of Philly in 5 or 6 games.
Orlando will have some trouble stopping Wade and Miami but will win in 7.
Atlanta will beat Detroit in 6 games and the Pistons reign will end.
Second Round:
Cleveland will stick it to Atlanta in probably 5 or 6 games. There is no way they can contain LBJ.
Boston will barely beat Orlando in a game 7. It will be a match up for the ages because Dwight Howard will be a beast.
Conference Finals:
Boston got the best of Cleveland last time, but James won’t let it happen again. He’s powered his team to the finals before and will do it again. The big three will tired of eliminating the Magic and won’t have enough left in the tank for Cleveland. It won’t hurt to have the home court advantage either. Cleveland will win in 6.
Now let’s move on to the Western Conference.
8. Houston – This is a tough choice, because I think Dallas has a shot at this spot too. But, I give the edge to Houston because if they get their team back from injuries they are much better than Dallas this year. That said, if T-Mac doesn’t come back well along with Artest they’re sunk. And if Yao goes down again, they can kiss the playoffs, and probably this roster goodbye.
7. Utah – The Jazz, like the Rockets have had plenty of injuries. In fact they haven’t had the roster they thought they would this entire season. But, they’ll continue to play well at home and win just enough to remain afloat until Boozer comes back after the All-Star break. They won’t catch up with anyone, but they’ll solidify their 7th seed spot and hope they can do damage in the playoffs. Again, if they continue to be plagued by injures, they too could be out of the playoffs.
6. Phoenix – Like Detroit, this team is a shell of its former self. But, with a resurgent Shaq and growing chemistry I think they’ll stay around the 6th seed. Nash has clearly lost a step, but is still one of the best point guards out there. Amare has been in a bit of a funk as of late, but I think he’ll start getting more shots once the chemistry comes together a bit more. I loved the Jason Richardson trade because he can put up points quickly and he shoots the three very effectively. While they aren’t what they used to be, they are flat out better and/or healthier than the teams behind them.
5. Portland – They have a lot of youth, so I don’t see them getting higher than a 5th seed. In fact they might even drop behind the Suns as the season progresses. But, I don’t think they end up missing the playoffs this year. They have strong coaching and a good leader in Brandon Roy. Aldridge is underrated and Oden and the other young guys should continue to progress.
4. New Orleans – Chris Paul is amazing, but the rest of his team? They’re mediocre, aside from West. Chandler is having a terrible season and while Posey is a great clutch guy and wonderful defender, they need a legitimate third option. They seem to lack the passion they had last year, maybe it’s because they’re waiting for the playoffs.
3. San Antonio Spurs– At the beginning of the season it looked like age had finally caught up with this team. Now, it looks like they’re ready for another championship run. Signing Roger Mason this last off-season was huge. The guy is great in clutch situations and compliments the team perfectly. Having him allows Manu to come off of the bench which is a huge asset for the Spurs. Duncan is still one of the most dominant players in the league and Tony Parker is a seasoned point guard who makes good decisions and can flat out score. They need help at center, but they’ve got enough to get the 2nd or 3rd seed.
2. Denver Nuggets– What a surprise Denver has been. They looked like they were going nowhere. They traded Camby and Iverson and I assumed they had thrown in the towel. But, Chauncey has been phenomenal. He’s given that team the leadership they’ve needed since Melo was drafted and has turned that team around. Nene is playing well and when Carmelo returns from his injury they’re going to be even tougher to beat. In my opinion they have the Northwest division all but wrapped up given that Utah and Portland are still struggling with injuries. They’ll be fighting with the Spurs for the 2nd seed and I’m giving them the edge because of the Billups factor.
1. LA Lakers – They’ve been like a steamroller this season. Their length can’t be matched by anyone and Kobe has been playing very well. No one in the west has the depth they do and I think the leadership of Fisher and Kobe will keep this team focused on locking up the number 1 spot.
I expect the conference playoffs to go a little something like this:
First Round:
LA will dismantle Houston even if they have their whole roster back from injury. The Lakers have too many ways to score and will have the benefit of having played together for longer. They take it in 5.
The Jazz take the Nuggets to the brink of elimination, but not having home court is the deciding factor. The Nuggets win in 7.
Once again it’s San Antonio and Phoenix. Unfortunately for the Suns, the outcome is the same once more. In will be a dog fight but the Spurs win it in 7.
In the playoffs biggest surprise the Blazers beat the Hornets. Paul will be dynamite, but the young guns of Portland will edge them out in 7 games.
Second Round:
No surprise here, the Lakers beat the Blazers handily in 5 or 6 games. The Lakers have too much and Portland is too inexperienced.
The Nuggets and San Antonio will slug it out for 6 games, but San Antonio will ultimately come out victorious. Roger Mason will continue to impress and the original big three, Parker, Ginobli, and Duncan will advance to the conference finals.
Conference Finals:
This will go seven games. Neither team will give an inch. But, LA will get to the finals for the second year in a row in a thrilling game 7. San Antonio simply won’t be able to contain Kobe and will get beat by their lack of size.
Now for the NBA Finals!
Cleveland will take on the Lakers in what will become a classic series. Lebron vs. Kobe. While the Lakers have the better team, the Cavs have the best player. My initial thought is to give it to the Lakers, but I just don’t see James getting to this stage again and not winning a championship. Somehow, some way, Lebron James will finally bring a championship to Cleveland after a duel with Kobe in game 7.
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