Homage to the Young Buck #34

This represents many of the moments of Junior's childhood. I'll miss those days. He's a huge highschool linebacker now. I'm fairly certain that he doesn't care to know my opinion as much as before. Great days are ahead for our young man. But, I'll miss the days depicted in this video.

Barry Who?

If you saw ESPN's Home Run Contest this year, wasn't San Francisco's AT&T Ballpark beautiful? And, wasn't A-Rod resplendent as he engaged Barry Bonds in an intense conversation, while the cameras whirred? It was poignant as the man who is about to break the all-time HR record chatted with the resurgent A-Rod. We (as a country) are having trouble embracing Bonds because we all know he took steroids. If you are in that camp, stop worrying because A.) Bonds is one of umpteen-gillion cheaters. And, B.) A-Rod (whose body has grown significantly since being drafted) will blow so far past Bonds, all the present consternation will have been much ado about nothing.

The MLB doesn't mind cheaters unless those cheaters get caught. The game is full of cheaters. As long as these players keep their deceit on the down-low, baseball is happy to move forward. If you don't think the game is full of cheaters, I'll throw some names out to illustrate my point, using only my favorite team, present or former Texas Rangers.

Randy Velarde
Laynce Nix
Jason Botts
Gabe Kapler
Juan Gonzalez
Julio Franco
Ruben Sierra
Sammy Sosa
Jose' Canseco

How do I know these guys took yummies, the juice, steroids? I know for the same reason you know not to buy a Rolex watch from a man with an eye-patch on a street corner. I used to work out in the same gym with Former 7-time, Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman (a great guy). He never tested positive for steroids. But, I can tell you that his urine positively glows in the dark. So, if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, chances are very good that it's a duck.

By the way, I have included an early picture of A-Rod and a current picture. It wouldn't be crazy to think that HGH is a component in his box of Wheaties. Remember, there is no test to positively identify HGH.

In the next week or so, A-Rod will be the youngest player ever to get to 500 HR's. He's 32, for crying out loud. If he hit just 30 taters a year for the next 10 years, he'd be around 800, putting him way ahead of the number Bonds will end up with.

My conspiracy theory is this: A-Rod is using some combination of HGH and steroids. To support that theory, I give you photographic evidence of his broadening body. Also, prior to 2002, (his first year with the Rangers) he had never hit more than 42 taters. Seemingly amazingly, he exceeded his career best that year by crushing 52!

The three best years (for HR's) were the years he was in Texas. Carl Everett, Juan Gonzalez, Travis Hafner, Gabe Kapler, Pudge Rodriguez, Herbert Perry and Rafael Palmeiro were all on the Rangers' roster in 2002, Rodriguez' first year in Arlington. Is it just a coincidence that A-Rod had his career-best HR year in the first season that he played with this group of unusually large and strong men (and the only 500+ HR hitter ever to test positive for banned performance-enhancing drugs)?

Now, at the age of 32, A-Rod is on pace to have the best year in Yankees history for the long ball. Roger Maris was 26 when he hit 61 in pinstripes. Isn't it odd that A-Rod will pass that number at the ripe old age of 32?

Like Bonds, A-Rod hits harder as he gets older. So, it's a lock that we'll be celebrating the All-Time HR record again fairly soon after Bonds breaks Aaron's number. Finally, A-Rod will join other cheaters: John McGraw, Gaylord Perry and probably Bonds in the Hall of Fame. I hope that it happens at a park as gorgeous as the one in San Francisco. But, they'll always know that they cheated to get there.

4th of July

My neighborhood is made up of a great group of people. The adults all seem to remember what it is to have been kids. And, that makes it great to be a kid on the cul de sac on Madera Lane. Sadly, we're losing the sweetest family we have. Brian and Kim Long are taking their three wonderful kids away from us this weekend. It seems his company thinks the Longs are more needed in Virginia.

Of course, Brian's company could never know how much we all have come to love his wife's smile, his son Brice's mischief, son Brennan's quirkiness and Brandtley's movie-star cuteness. No realtor could simply replace the Long Family. That's for sure.

We had our last great hurrah this July 4th before we see the Longs drive away for the last time. It was raucous; and it was bitter-sweet. I was allowed to say our last prayer. And, in it, I asked for their safe travel. And, I thanked the Lord that my family's journey was allowed to intersect with theirs, if only for a short time. I know my other neighbors feel the same.

The 4th of July this year is a time to celebrate our blessings as Americans. We live in the greatest democratic republic that the world has ever seen. And, despite the left's best efforts to thwart our president, our economy and our security, our system and our brave and proud people continue to present the world an example of the freedoms that all men should enjoy.

Also, my family can sit back and reflect on another baseball season. The Beaumont Gladiators were outfitted with half a roster of players, and half a roster who expected the other half to deliver the day. Our coach did everything he knew to develop the players.

Morgan Walker was a fine coach, in that he extended respect to players who gave effort. And, he extended opportunities to improve to players who were simply over-matched at this level. We were a .500 team. But, I don't lay any part of the blame at Morgan Walker's feet. From my perspective, when Walker realized that our team was out of its depth, he dedicated the season to the development of the players, with little regard for win-percentage. Most coaches' egos will not allow them to make decisions on that basis. My son learned from a player with professional experience, and a coach who extended him more respect than any coach ever had before. Walker was both.

John is now working out with the Beaumont Westbrook football team, doing summer workouts. It's tough. But, he can see already that he's above average among incoming freshmen.

Gladiators settle for 2nd at the Box

Weather: Perfect
Competition: Tough
Box Stadium: Idyllic
Second place isn't as good as first. But, what a nice tournament at Box Stadium on May 19 & 20, 2007! A special thanks to Mrs. Jacobs for taking many of these pictures.

Our Last Bat Had a $300 Price Tag

Roger and the Larger Context

The "Arlington Oak", Timinator Phillips called on Monday to allow me to vent if I felt betrayed by Roger Clemens' signing with the Gotham Pinstripes.

I told the sculpted Timinator (3rd Place, Mr. DFW) that I would have to call him back after collecting my thoughts. First, I had to consider what we know:

THE ROGER - 7 Time Cy Young Winner, 11 Time All-Star, AL MVP, 7 Time ERA Ldr, Couple of Rings, 1st ballot HOF'er, blah, blah, blah...

*Loyalty is not the coin of the realm in business, and definitely not so in sports. Would the Astros be so heartbroken if Clemens hadn't been so good last year? Where is the loyalty to a free-agent when he's long in the tooth and recovering from Tommy John surgery? No GM has ever explained the signing of a gimpy has-been free-agent with the term: "for old time's sake".

**There's even less mutual loyalty in Gotham than in the real world. When Roger puts his jacket in the dugout during his first game back, he won't be bumping into Mel Stottlemyre and Don Zimmer. They've been excused by the Boss, despite their notable investments in the team's past good fortunes. Zimmer was so bitter about the disloyalty embodied by Steinbrenner that he dedicated fully 20 percent of his book, the Zen of Zim to the chapter and verse of his mistreatment in New York.

***All the gullible hayseeds in Houston, emailing the Houston Chronicle's Crybaby Section Editor about Roger's infidelity should ask themselves one question: What would they do if they themselves held a royal flush, while sitting at life's card table surrounded by the game's biggest scoundrels? If they were smart, they would cash in.

Loyalty is a quality of paramount importance. Men should be loyal to their wives, their families, friends and their country. But, the term has no place in business. Any employee in MLB can trust an owner as far they can throw his bloated body. They deserve no loyalty. If you don't believe me, ask Richardo Hidalgo. The operative term in the MLB is "LEVERAGE".
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Mike Reed from Pasadena, Texas Retorts on Rocket...

I agree. Roger had the right to cash in. If the Madman of Gotham wants to pay an overweight, self-absorbed, grandiose, marketing genius, (most-likely steroid or HGH taker) 28 million, who is the chump?

Roger pitched well for the Astros both years and could have easily had many more wins if not for the ineptitude of the offense. Roger is a Hall Of Fame pitcher that is using the free market system to perfection. He is the Rembrandt of self-promotion and so far he has performed. What do you want? To pitch your last days with a club like the Astros? Or, do you want to go out playing for the most historic and celebrated franchise in history of sport? What Jersey will the Rocket display in Cooperstown? The Astros? PleaZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ.

Personally, I believe Roger is a self absorbed, egomaniac, with no loyalty to anyone but Roger. However, as far as his family goes.... (Hey honey, mind if I play a few months this summer for a cool $28 million? Probably can buy you a new Hummer with the extra cash. I can stop making those ridiculous HEB commercials with Andy Pettite and the washed up Carr.)

This is business and Roger owes nobody nothin. That is Texas English at its best. If I am the Astros I move on without even a second thought. The Astros do not need Clemons. They can spend 18 million or 28 million on some younger talent. Time to rebuild. The Astros have one of the highest winning percentages in baseball over the years. True fans can chill out and allow the team to rebuild. A fourth place finish is not the end of the world. Go to the ball park for the entertainment and the joy of the game. Enjoy watching other teams' talented players. Take a lesson from Cub Fans for Heaven’s sake.

Enough about Roger and his disloyalty to Houston. Who cares? We have terrorists trying to kill us and the possibility of a woman president. Here is a scenario for you cry babies. Astros and Yankees in the 2007 World Series, Roger on the mound in game seven; bottom of the ninth, two outs, man on 3rd (the winning run). Roger beans Biggio, the all time hit-me king, both benches empty. Nolan Ryan comes out of the stands and kicks Roger's ass. After the melee has ended came is forfeited and MLB declares the Tampa Bay Devil Rays Champions.
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The Beaumont Gladiators played like Gladiolas on Sunday in Humble, Texas despite pummeling both the Austin Wings (6-1) and Houston Slam (6-1) on Saturday in the "Head of the Class" NIT Qualifier.

On Saturday, Peerless Price Jacobs had the 1st game's biggest highlight with a 3 RBI moonshot over the left field fence. Solid pitching was delivered all day on May 5th by Jacobs, "Wild Thing" St. Clair, "Mousetrap" Dugas, "Papa John" Titus and "Farmer" Scoggins.

An uneven effort on Sunday quashed any chance at advancement, despite gritty performances by Caleb Henry and "Soft-toss" Markum.

The Gladiators will play next at Box Stadium at Louisiana State University on May 19th, 2007 in the Battle of the Box.

Gladiator Baseball

The 14U Beaumont Gladiators took home another 2-2 record after play on April 21st and 22nd.

On Saturday at Baseball USA, the day started in dissarray. First, the Gladiators lost to cross-town rivals, the Big-Timers. Then, adding insult to injury, former Atlanta Braves Catcher, Javy Lopez snuck into the team picture. (Click on picture to see enlargement.) The team followed by salvaging the remains of the day with a victory over The Southern Panthers.

Sunday brought a repeat of the previous day with a split with Team Extreme and the Triple Threat.

Motor City Madman Speaks

Leave it to the Ted to talk common-sense.

The Nuge speaks out about "Gun-Free Zones".

Sgt. Robert Matthew McDowell of Deer Park, TX

A MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR SGT. ROBERT MATTHEW MCDOWELL
WILL BE HELD ON FRIDAY, APRIL 20, AT 10:00 A.M.

AT THE ST. HYACINTH CHURCH LOCATED AT 2921 CENTER STREET
(CORNER OF CENTER & P STREET)


SGT. MCDOWELL WAS KILLED ON APRIL 1
IN BAGHDAD WHILE SERVING HIS COUNTRY


AS A DISPLAY OF OUR COMMUNITY’S RESPECT
YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN US IN LINING UP ALONG CENTER STREET

(BETWEEN PASADENA BLVD & P STREET)

BETWEEN 9:00 A.M. AND 9:30 A.M.
TO OFFER OUR RESPECT

Protecting My Great Game

This is a picture of my son, pitching a real nice game on Sunday against the 7th ranked team in South Texas, The Houston Angels. The Gladiators had a pretty good weekend at Baseball USA, going 2-2, and giving a nationally ranked team a hard run up until the very last out. Being at a great ballpark with my son on days like this is what I like the best. Forget skiing, forget Vegas, forget scuba diving with a friendly Grouper in Cozumel. On days like this, I get so wrapped up in the game that I'd forget my head if it wasn't connected.

I was in a pretty good mood all weekend, despite a few bad breaks. Our infielders looked this weekend like they are starting to realize that they have got to sacrifice. Excuses don't count. Results do. It was great to see some of these boys be accountable. In particular, "Everyday Eddie" Garza and "Peerless" Price Jacobs had their best weekends defensively.

I was allowed to say the team prayer prior to our first game on Sunday morning. I remembered to give thanks for our boys, for the effort they are showing more of, for the family members who support their efforts and their friends. I remembered to say "...in Jesus' name we pray..". But, I forgot to ask the Lord to bless our troops. I get so wrapped up in my day to day life that I forget what those brave men and women are doing in the War Against Terror.

While the team had their heads bowed and knees bent in prayer on that pristeen grass on Sunday, I should have asked the Lord to bless our President, who has shown the courage of his convictions throughout this difficult time of politically motivated attacks and unfair misrepresentation of our intent and performance in Iraq and Afghanistan. And, more important, I should have remembered to give thanks for the courage and commitment of our fine and brave military men and women. But, as I said, I forget everything else when its time for baseball. These men and women protect my time at the ballpark with my son, often at the cost of their own. A picture that I saw this morning reminded me what I had forgotten yesterday.

Please take a moment to read the story that surrounds this picture, by visiting this link: Staff Sargeant's Brave Son

Next Sunday, I'm going to ask to say the team prayer and ask Jesus to help us win the peace in the Middle East. I'll ask the Lord to bless our fine soldiers. This time, I won't forget.
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It's great to see former Aggie Great, Jason Tyner playing well enough to draw starts and ink. After going 3 for 5 on Saturday Night, he's even forecasting some power numbers. Tyner Time At Twins.Com

On your mark, Set your TiVo: YANKEES V BOSTON

The first grudge match between the Red Sox and Yankees takes place next weekend at Fenway. This series is simply the best in baseball, with apologies to Chicago/St. Louis and the Yankees' cross-town NL rival. Its a serving of the rich groom's cake of our romance with the great game. Every match between Gotham and Beantown has a subtext. Historians know the passionate historical antipathy between the two towns. And, there are always more than enough current events to make the matchup great. Both FOX and ESPN are broadcasting nationally next Saturday and Sunday nights.

• On May 30th 1938, before a Yankee Stadium record crowd of 83,533, Yankees outfielder Jake Powell and Red Sox player-manager Joe Cronin fight on the field and beneath the stands. Both players were fined and suspended for 10 games. The Red Sox finish second to the Yankees, who go on to sweep the Cubs in the World Series.

Oh, baseball's glorious, romantic yesteryear. So, you see? This rivalry has the legitimacy of a long and bitter geneology.

• On May 24, 1952, Red Sox outfielder Jimmy Piersall and Yankees second baseman Billy Martin exchange insults before a game in Boston, and end up fighting in the tunnel under the stands. The fight is broken up by Yankees coaches Bill Dickey and Oscar Melillo, and Boston starter Ellis Kinder. Piersall changes out of his bloody shirt and promptly fights with teammate Maury McDermott. The Red Sox win 5-2 with Piersall sitting the game out.

My readers are not baseball neophytes, so I won't insult them with a rehashing of the Curse of the Babe. But, I will predict that Yankees fans will announce that this series presents A-Rod with another of their When It Matters tests. (They won't remember if he continues his torrid start.) But, if he has the hiccups in Boston, get ready for the NY papers to rail on about how he doesn't show up when it matters. For their part, Boston fans are foaming at the opportunity for Daisuke Matsuzaka to shine as the jewel that will bring beantown another crown. How much does Boston hate Steinbrenner and his limitless team salary? How will Boston receive New England's biggest turncoat since Benedict Arnold, Johnny Damon? Could the outcome of this series have an effect on Roger Clemens as he determines which team is just one All-Star pitcher away from a championship? (Astros fans, don't kid yourself. Your team is just a bargaining chip in this sweepstakes.)

There are so many layers in this rich cake, it would take a crane to move it. And, it will be soooo sweet to be a fan on April 20th.

The Wait Pays Off For Le Blanc

When we do a Google Search with the phrase: "Wait on the Lord", it's amazing how many scriptures convey that sentiment. I encourage you to try. I'll include one.

Psalms 25:21 Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.

Sometimes we wonder why we/others have to struggle. Some struggle badly. They wriggle, whine and complain. Others exude poise and grace during their period of struggle. And, we are left to wonder why God wills that such good people must endure such hardships.

My fine son used to play football for the La Porte Texans. He was a 10 year old, marauding defender in the mold of a Taylor (Lawrence or Jason). One of our friends had a son: 6th Grader, Robert Le Blanc.

Robert used to be a Def. End. But, he couldn't get a sniff of consistent playing-time. It seemed that his coaches wrongly judged that he was slow and lacked killer instinct, being such a quiet kid. Robert's mom quietly stewed all season. We hurt for our kids when their best efforts go unrewarded.

Robert has always been such a poised young man, it was hard to guage his emotions. Robert kept trying. But, recognition did not find him that season. He waited.

Robert's mom sent me a message this week. She advised that Robert had been unknowingly drafted onto the La Porte Bulldog track team by the coaches. He was assigned to lead the charge in his first-ever meet in the 200M. In the Deer Park Track Freshman and JV meet on Thursday, March 29, Robert won his first heat and took 2nd in the event. (So much for him being slow and lacking killer instinct.) He's now expected to be an anchor in several events. Robert is also projected to make Varsity next year in football (as a sophomore). He's also a fine baseball player. Going forward, the only discussion regarding Robert among the highschool coaches will be who gets to have him on any given day.

It is said that sports is a parable of life. It is designed to provide each of us with trials. Why was Robert denied the chance to really show himself when he played for the Texans? What was God's plan? Comparatively, this youngster's challenge was not serious; just one of life's hurdles. But, it provided an opportunity for all to see the qualities that his mom prizes so dearly: his steadiness, strength and faithfulness. When someone shows poise and waits in difficulty, it's easy to root for that person. So, I'm a fan. My son is proud to be his friend. And, we look forward to his coming glory days on the gridiron.
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Attached is a picture of Justin and Krystil Burney at the Goin' To Bat For Burney event last Saturday.
No doubt, Krystil's parents wait as she treats Hodgkins Lymphoma. They wonder about God's Plan. I wonder if Krystil's positive approach to her condition wasn't meant to be an illustration of how we should always put our focus on others, without indulging ourselves in self-pity. Her Carepages include so many pictures of the little children to whom she is a source of brightness and warmth. Even today, she writes about a little friend, named Hunter.

Krystil is currently being treated with anti-biotics for pneumonia. Please visit her Carepages and sign in to follow her treatment. Just go to www.carepages.com and input the name: kmburney

Krystil Steals the Show on Saturday

SFA's Lumberjack baseball team beat Central Arkansas 10-8 on Saturday. The Daily Sentinel, Nacogdoches' largest paper delivered the big news:

"The story of the day, though, was the pitching — not just of the SFA bullpen, but of SFA Ladyjack Krystil Burney, who has Hodgkin's lymphoma.

She is also the sister of SFA baseball player Justin Burney and the girlfriend of SFA baseball player Jake Leonhardt.

Burney threw out the first pitch, which was caught by her brother Justin. She stepped on the mound, glove in front of her mouth and shook off her brother's signs. She then spit out some sunflower seeds and fired a strike into her brother's mitt."

Krystil's mother, Edith breathed a sigh of relief that her daughter had the energy to throw out pitches in both the baseball and softball games. Although, she gave the appearance of youthful energy and enthusiasm on Saturday, Sunday Morning brought very sore muscles for Krystil. Krystil was very thankful to everyone at SFA who brought attention to the condition that plagues so many.

In a National Search for her initial bone marrow transplant, only eight potential donors were found to help Krystil. Sadly, after being contacted, only two of these potential lifesavers showed for their appointment. There remains a great need for more donors. Donating your healthy blood-forming cells can save a life. And, the donor is back to normal after just a few days.

Please visit: National Marrow Donor Registry for more information. We continue to be inspired by Krystil's courage as she fights cancer.
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Please CLICK on Before Picture.
The Vicarious Life would like to recognize our neighbors, Brian and Kim Long. On Sunday, April 1, 2007, this lovely couple took it upon themselves to attend to the trash, weeds and overgrown shrubbery that was making my yard something of a blight on our neighborhood. This can-do attitude is much appreciated. (BEFORE and AFTER photos attached.)

Going to Bat for Krystil

Our family lived in La Porte, Texas for a few years, from 2000 to 2004. My son was already playing Select baseball at the time. In 2003, the La Porte Highschool Bulldogs had a very strong varsity baseball team.

The anchor of their pitching rotation was a 5'11" righty, named Justin Burney. As a Senior, he had command of all his pitches. He touched 90 with his heater, had a nice changeup and a filthy curve. He was nearly unhittable. That year, he was the District Player of the Year, All-State, and 2 years First Team All-District. He was also a very humble and decent young man. He saw me working with my son one day after his own practice and offered to give John hitting instructions. (Burney was a great hitter too.) My son was 10 at the time. Burney had a great rapport with him. He was very careful not to accept any recompense for his time because he didn't want to violate NCAA rules.

Justin Burney may not remember my son. But, I'll never forget how charitable Justin was with his time.

La Porte was solid in Spring '03. The District Champs, they had a deep staff, including future Texas Aggie Signee Jake Bussey. As the season went on, if the game was at Coach Ricky Torres' home field, the Dawgs put on a show. When Burney pitched, the place was electric. Justin's sister was a sophomore when he was a Senior. She was loud and shrill in the stands, screaming over the crowd in support of her brother. You couldn't help but admire her overt displays of family loyalty. She exalted in his successes. She hurt for him during his struggles (There weren't many).

Krystil also was an anchor on the school softball team. After her days at LPHS, she signed to play at Stephen F. Austin University. She was pretty, but had a toughness about her.

In the time since that great year, so much has happened. Justin is now a pitcher on the Stephen F. Austin baseball team. Krystil is on the softball roster. Yet, the Burney Family has been forced to deal with great adversity. Krystil has been suffering from the onset, recurrences and side effects of Hodgkins Lymphoma since 2005. I have been reading her family's blog regularly for well over a year as she has remained mostly at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.

Krystil's unmitigated optimism is the one aspect of her personality that has remained, as her appearance, physical strength and health have ebbed. Her entries on her "Carepages" show that she continues to rely on her sense of humor. She writes often about the many younger kids with whom she endures this cruel condition. Many of these kids have lost the fight since she started writing. Krystil grieves. Sometimes her mom, Edith writes. Edith's faith and reliance on Jesus is always prominent.

This coming weekend is very special for the Burneys because SFA University is having an event called "Goin' to Bat for Burney". Click the following link for more information.

Going to Bat For Burney

Krystil will get to throw out the first pitch at the baseball game, with her brother behind the plate. She'll dress out in her SFA softball uniform. Edith wrote this morning that she hopes her daughter has the strength to endure the day's activities.

I have been a bystander while Krystil has endured so many radiation treatments, chemo and a bone marrow transplant. She has a boyfriend named Jake, also on the baseball team. She maintains big plans for her future. I know her kind and loving brother is praying for her. I pray that her body holds up. Certainly, her irrepressible optimism will never fail her.

...The More Things Stay The Same...

Historically speaking, the media has a little history in needling America's real protectors:

"It appears we have appointed our worst generals to command forces, and our most gifted and brilliant to edit newspapers! In fact, I discovered by reading newspapers that these editor/geniuses plainly saw all my strategic defects from the start, yet failed to inform me until it was too late. Accordingly, I'm readily willing to yield my command to these obviously superior intellects, and I'll, in turn, do my best for the Cause by writing editorials - after the fact."

-General Robert E. Lee, 1863
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Junior's team, the Beaumont Gladiators are in Humble, Texas this weekend. This team is currently on a three-game losing streak. So, we'll see. Maddie hit a round-tripper last night. If things keep up, this blog is going to be renamed "Maddie's World" (You're just livin' in it.)

As Sure as the Sun Rises

Anyone who has read this blog for any length of time can be certain that I will crow on about every banner event that involves my kids. I'm just predictable that way. Folks can be counted on (sooner or later) to show their true colors.

Today marks the 4th Anniversary of the initial bombing of Baghdad by Allied Forces. Since that time, I've found that I'm not the only one who is just as predictable as the rising sun. The Editor/Founder of the USA Today has been just as predictable since Shock-And-Awe in slandering, misrepresenting and criticizing our President in time of war as I have been of myopic celebration of my children's activities. (By the way; the attached pic is Maddie "training" Spanky the seal at San Antonio's Sea World over Spring Break. Is she great or what?)

His name is Al Neuharth. He's a clever fellow, having created a national sports page that is just about essential to all business travelers during their morning visit to the privy.

Neuharth's act is getting so old. Every day of the last four years has begun with slanted slaps at our military efforts to quiet the volatile world of Radical Islam. Just today for example, Neuharth's headlines include "IRAQIS SEE HOPES DRAIN AWAY". He doesn't analyze what Iraqis hope for?(They hope America wins; they hope for personal freedom. How's that for journalistic even-handedness from USA Today?) In his editorials, he regularly stretches literary license, having joined Hillary Clinton in calling G. W. Bush our country's worst president. (Of course, I predictably disagree. During the War On Terror, I have seen Pres. Bush remain one of the few consistent politicians who has been true to his principles, while the left has changed position with every new opinion poll.)

The larger issue is "the battle for hearts and minds". As the world has gotten smaller due to technology, Radical Islam, Iran and the Taliban's continuous export of crazed and misled killers can only be emboldened by what they can see as a divided USA, no thanks to people like Neuharth. This sadly can only prolong the job and the danger for our brave men in uniform. During WWII, divisive propoganda such as those inflammatory headlines often seen in USA Today, Houston Chronicle, LA Times and the New York Times were considered treasonous.

This rant about Neuharth comes to you because of my disgust at his misguided body of work and its direct effect in hindering America's effort to quickly close the deal in Iraq. In the past, I've had a tendency to rant. Some folks are just predictable that way.
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My lovely wife, my great and adventurous neighbors and I staged a "Crawdad Boil" on Friday night. This involved a 20 gallon pot of boiling water and Cajun seasoning. Throw in 5 pounds of shucked corn, a bunch of garlic cloves, about two pounds of quartered onions and a mess of whole New Potatoes with the requisite 100 pounds of live crawfish. (Don't worry folks. The crawfish don't squeal in a frequency that you can hear.) We couldn't have pulled this together without our resident cook, Keith Holt. It has been said that Mr. Holt could take a work boot, cut it up and slow cook it to produce an sumptuous pot of chili.

Ho-Downs: The Next Great Sport

My daughter went to the ho-down at her school today. She seemed to have a nice time. All the kids there are such accomplished square-dancers. Since this is a sports-related blog, I'm going to consider this activity a sport just this one time.
(This young man is quite the dancer-romancer.)

Weekend Damage Control

The liberal media is hyperventilating over their own analysis relating to the homicide bomber who killed himself and others outside the fence of the Bagram, Afghanistan base where VP Dick Cheney was meeting with members of the central Afghani government today. (Someone tell me if this is a grammatically correct sentence?)

Liberals Waste No Time starting Spin Machine

CNN reported today that the attack showed the increased ability of the Taliban to strike Western interests.

My Analysis: The second highest American government official goes into the heart of Radical Islam country, and all they can do is meth-up one unemployed heroin addict and walk him to the chain link for a meeting with allah? Didn't they have a few crazed middle-school kids with RPG's? Isn't that what they go to school for, CNN?

Is that all they've got?! Kind of flacid, if you ask me.

I'm kind of disappointed in Radical Islam today. They're just not holding up their end of this conflict.
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My lovely daughter had a pep rally last week. She did great.


Afterward, I was pretty fired up. Her love interest was there because he's in her class. I told him to get next to her to take a picture. He had no problem with that. But, evidently she got embarrased because her other classmates were there. ........ I just don't get kids.

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The first picture attached is our good friend, Clint "Farmer" Scoggins. Second picture is the imperturbable Aaron Morgan. In the last picture, Morgan throws to Junior at 1B to hold a runner.

Playing in Houston's Baseball USA means teams will only see the best competition. Every player works individually with professional trainers. And, every team is stacked. After this weekend, the Gladiators will have to content themselves with being the worst of the best after losing three in a row.

One of the teams Beaumont played was the Texas Drillers. This is a team that pounds the baseball from 1-9 in their lineup. They are so well-financed that they all flew to Puerto Rico for a tournament last Fall, at one of the parents' expense. They took 2nd there.

John sees a lot of boys that he has played baseball with through the years. In the coming years, they'll all be reading eachothers' names in the Houston Chronicle Sports Page. These are the future stars of the Houston area.

And while we await this weekend's tournament.....

This is a picture that I took this week of my lovely daughter. She is a vision of loveliness. She always minds her daddy. More about her to follow.

Click the link here to see one of the greatest video clips you’re just ever going to see:
Green Bean Standoff
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While I was waiting for my son at the orthodontist’s office today, a nice looking lady approached and said “Hello….”. I’m sure I looked a little shell-shocked. She didn’t know that I’d just left the battle zone and had no idea as to her identity. She asked how my new dog was doing. Then, I realized that she was the kind lady who rescued the little Black Lab pup and needed to find it a home. A mutual friend volunteered me. That was 6 weeks ago.

Everybody should have a Lab puppy at least once in order to fully appreciate it. Like a convertible, owning one of these little blessings is totally impractical and high maintenance. Also, both the convertible and puppy come with lots of hidden costs.

My son’s pitching coach told us about his dog passing blue and red plastic for two days after it ate all the wire off his trailer. These dogs are just a laugh a minute.

Fellow Black Lab owners are like Marines because they all ultimately realize their puppy is the enemy. The owner defeats the will of the enemy or vice versa. And, owners all respect each other because they’ve all run the gauntlet (or killed their dog).

Like a terrorist, this puppy digs trenches, destroys walls and windows. But, I have an ally. His name is Larry. During my absences, Larry the German Shepherd raises the puppy. He’s teaching the puppy to respect authority. Thank goodness for a trustworthy ally in my personal war against terror.


Next time hopefully, I’ll recognize the nice lady once I’ve recovered from this trauma.

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As part of the NBA's All-Star Weekend, new fans got to see the round moribund, Charles Barkley race 67 year old Dick Bavetta in a carnival sideshow atmosphere. Too bad he's reduced to this.

Folks forget or are too young to know how great Charles Barkley was when he was young. Click this link for a quick reminder: Round Mound of Rebound
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My lovely daughter was recognized at school for demonstrating the virtue of the month: Respect. I am very proud of her. Also, her basketball coach called her the most tenacious defender on the team at the last practice this season. She was scrappy and tough. On the basketball court, she doesn’t respect anybody. Ironic.

Beware the Age of Enlightenment

Isn't it unusual that we're looking at a picture of the Indianapolis Colts giving thanks to God after the Super Bowl? Kind of foreign? It just seems so because fans are being conditioned by the left to bifurcate American cultural events and its religious ones.

Take for example last week's perfect media storm involving a marginal former NBA player, John Amaechi who has claimed to be a homosexual. Sports writers and radio personalities beat the bushes for a week, trying to find an NBA player who would say exactly the things that Tim Hardaway said. He hates homosexuals. He wouldn't want to play with homosexuals. Then the media had its controversy with the resulting fodder for hours of secular platitudes about "bigotry" and "tolerance".

Based upon the media's definition of tolerance, any professional athlete who believes the Apostle Paul's words in the Book of Romans might be branded as intolerant. Certainly, Tim Hardaway's words are too angry and too strong. It isn't Christian to waste your energy with hate. Still, homosexuality is a sin, like any other. Could the time come when Christian Athletes will have to publicly deny the teachings of their faith in order to comply with society's criteria in it's new "age of enlightenment"?

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Chicagoland Educator, Todd Keeler summed last week's rant about parents demanding change for the better: "The 'stay putism,' you described is cleverly-disguised passivity, a staple in the the blob of mediocrity's diet which is also consuming much of our youth. Life is about change and constant and never-ending improvement by taking healthy risks--not about staying comfortable which is the natural gravitational pull of the world. Good for you for your great reminder to me."

Valentine's Wrap-Up

If you show me a player who respects his coaches and parents, I’ll show you a player with big upside. One such player is on our current team, the Beaumont Gladiators. His name is Clint Scoggins, from Silsbee, Texas. Our new team passed on several more experienced players because of this young man’s effort and good attitude. (Clint on the left, John rt.)
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Junior hit the baseball last weekend at Baseball USA in Houston. He had a hit off the fence, a hit to left, to right-center, a bloop hit, a hit so hard that it ricocheted off the shortstop, a clutch hit and a go-ahead hit. It was a nice weekend,…. if you like hitting.
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Relating to last week's entry about our border-agent patriots, , my dad wrote:

Your point is painfully, Right ON. The handling of the Border Patrol incident is a scandal. No doubt due to the (expletive removed) ACLU. But, why can't our legal-justice system see through the pseudo-legal (adjective removed) smoke? Obviously a result of our perverse political system.

Frankly Patrick, I am impressed that you are aware of this unacceptable affair. Love, Dad
My dad is generally surprised when I am aware of anything not relating to sports.

My paternity claim on Anna Nicole Smith’s daughter has received surprisingly little media attention.
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The Congressional Subcommittee Meeting on Global Warming was cancelled on Valentine’s Day because of freezing rain and snow accumulation. Add your own punchline.
(I bet my Dad didn't know this.)

http://www.drudgereport.com/flash8.htm
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In Select baseball, from time to time it becomes necessary to switch teams. Usually, the parents bicker over where Little Johnny plays. Why does Little Billy bat in front of Little Joey? Sometimes the financial commitment to one team is prohibitive. Or, the coach is better suited to be working in the penal system than guiding young men towards their adulthood.

It’s O.K. It happens. Sometimes you just move on to another team. My son has played for five different select teams, since he was nine years old.

The thing that makes me scratch my head is when parents who have a better opportunity with a different team, explain their decision to stay put thusly: “Well, we asked Billy what he wants to do. He said he wants to stay with his friends.”

It really makes me nervous when folks admit that they abdicated the decision-making to their 10-year-old. Don’t get in that habit. Make sure your kid knows that you will call the shots.

Someone will say “How will I teach my precious angel how to make his own decisions?” My answer: Teach by example.

Some folks have a hard time being where the buck stops. It’s just too much responsibility for them. Get ready, people. If you can’t dictate outcomes when your kids are little, how will you tell them they can’t go to the tattoo parlor/meth. lab/Marilyn Manson concerto when they’re sixteen?

Pujols Abandons Legal Protections

You're going to think I'm crazy. But, I think Albert Pujols made an error yesterday. He was awarded American Citizenship after passing a test, for which he prepared as if it was the World Series. The result of the day may mean a reduction of protections for Pujols in any future mishaps, within the American Judicial System.

Chester Moyer, the officer in charge of the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Service office in St. Louis, said Thursday that Deidre Pujols served as her husband's tutor. Moyer said Pujols, 27, spent about a year preparing for the citizenship exam. He went on to pass the exam with a score of 100.

Doesn't Pujols know that citizenship is the kiss of death, should he ever be found bumping an illegal while waving the American Flag, or suggesting that President Bush is a greater leader than say.... Hugo Chavez? Just ask Border Patrol Agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean, who are serving sentences of 10 years each in Federal Penitentiaries for scuffling and subsequently shooting a Mexican National, who was attempting to smuggle more than 700 pounds of illicit drugs into America from Mexico on Feb. 17, 2005. In this case, the foreign intruder was found to have had his civil rights infringed. He was given immunity from prosecution in return for testifying in America against our citizens. The Border Agents were said to have violated his rights by pursuing the illegal drug-smuggling alien.

Didn't anybody tell Albert Pujols that this is no longer the United States of America. (I'll have to tell him myself in my library voice.) Albert, this is La-La Land where every day is opposite day. And yes, that's why I wear my underpants on the outside.
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I'm proud that I live in Congressman Ted Poe's District. He is taking the lead with Rep. Tom Tancredo (R-Colo.) in Congress on demanding that the complete story be heard and that Pres. Bush pardon these men.

Also, I am proud that our country is still the greatest in the world. I'm glad that a fine man like Pujols would regard being an American highly enough to spend a year to prepare.

Tancredo Demands Pardon

In response to this, Chicago Business Owner, Sean O'Connor writes: Given the state of my (part owner of a small business) health care plan, he (Pujols) is a fool. Recently, my wife had a procedure at the hospital that was painful and urgent and I knew all along it was going to be out of pocket. Not only was I tired and upset for the sake of my wife and wallet but leaving the emergency room and seeing no less than 14 (what appeared to be) illegals waiting for care put me over the edge. if I was alone, I would have a few things in English that i would have made sure they understood.
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Thanks to those folks who encouraged me to keep writing. I was taking a sabbatical while my son was in preparation mode for another baseball season. He plays tomorrow in Houston.