Blog Outsourcing 1/18

Happy Martin Luther King Day to you! Today is an important day on American soil. I am sure you have you moments, to which you can freely share here. Maybe Cycledan or Cabbage or Patphish can share first-person anecdotes, eh?

But seriously, I am sure the best way to honor him is to serve the human person. Serve those who need it more than you. I appreciate all the help you guys pitched in when my fellow countrymen were in need late last year. I am sure those affected value your assistance in any way possible.

Now, a country needs your help. Go out and make a difference. It will be hard to expect you going to Port-au-Prince, but there are other ways.

Network for Good. Google. You know what to do.

Now link-love time...

Favre Favre Favre Favre. Favre Favre Favre.....

Whining about running up the score was a college thing? Keith Brooking can't handle the truth.

Good news for Wade Phillips fans. I wonder how many are there...

Obligatory J-E-T-S! JETS! JETS! JETS! link coming up. Patphish entering comments in 3... 2.... 1...

Mark Sanchez's dad does make a difference.

Quo Vadis, LT?

Take your time, Kurt.

It has been an ugly year for kickers. At least good news for someone Sparty likes.

Early NFC Super Bowl play-in preview. Here is the AFC Super Bowl play-in.

RIP Gaines Adams. Unfortunately, you cannot escape the bust clause. Bears can't get a break as well.

Status quo with ChiSox? Dodgers, too.

Could it be Roid Rage for Jose Offerman? Umpires scared off....

Jerry Stackhouse is back. However, John might want to give up his knee for Paul Pierce to use.

Futbol update: Bad news for Sam's Army.

Sundiata...

Video-love:
Just fit for today.


Pardon because it is done in the native tongue of my motherland, but it is a message that we, as a nation want to express and send to the Haitian nation.

Blog Outsourcing 1/11

Hello to TMA Nation!

I am pissed with Floyd Mayweather. I am really pissed that the fight will not go on. I am definitely not pleased with his antics (who has not?), but sometimes, you need common sense. Simmons has always been a proponent of the VP of Common Sense. Apparently, Floyd needs one. He needs Manny more than Manny needs him. Yes, the greatest Asian fighter in history would be better against him, but he has alternative options.

Oh, and here are some ways of improving the Clippers via the Fabled Trade Machine. I also know the chances a trade like this would happen is slim to none.

1. Getting Jared Jeffries for Al Thornton, Ricky Davis and Kareem Rush
2. Getting a healthy Francisco Garcia and the carcass of Sean May for the same three players.
3. Getting DeShawn Stevenson and Nick Young or Javaris Crittenton for the same 3 players.
4. Getting Luol Deng for Ricky Davis, Al Thornton, Mardy Collins, Sebastian Telfair, Steve Novak, Brian Skinner, Kareem Rush
5. Getting Kevin Martin for Mardy Collins, Ricky Davis, Al Thornton, Kareem Rush, Steve Novak
6. Getting Terence Williams and CD-R or Courtney Lee for Al Thornton and Kareem Rush
7. Getting Thaddeus Young and Lou Williams for Thornton, Steve Novak, Sebastian Telfair and Kareem Rush
8. Getting Marc Gasol, Rudy Gay, Lester Hudson and Sam Young for Marcus Camby and Al Thornton
9. Getting Raja Bell for Ricky Davis and Mardy Collins
10. Getting Charlie Bell and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute for Mardy Collins and Al Thornton.

And so, we commence the links,  which you like more than what I write about.

There will be a PacMan vs Mayweather match on March 13. Just not what you had initially thought.

And so the LA demigod has decided to leave the comfy heavens of the Coliseum for the dreary Qwest. And sorry USC, Mike Riley is pretty happy in Corvallis.

Is Miz ok? we haven't heard from him. After all, the Vols did shock the world with the classic "chemistry" cliche. Maybe the Jayhawks should be shooting more instead.

I hope you were able to watch SNL. I wonder when will that reach the shores of the islands.

Really, the Cincinnati Reds get this guy? There may be hope at the Great American Launching Pad. On the other hand, things are not well in Red Sox Nation.

Is it really that important for you to have your team's cap on a bust?

Career numbers for Vlad at the Ballpark in Arlington: .394, 14 HR, 33 RBIs, 24 walks, 193 at-bats. Looks like a Bobby Abreu-like deal.

Wizards erase all traces of the Agent Zero era. Well, not all of it, though.

Good news, Sparty. One of your peeps scored the 10-M point of the NBA.

The delay with his return is probably because he wants to ensure he can handle the punch to the throat.

There were brawls, and then there was this Youtube of course, has it covered. Pardon the language barrier.

UGA is trying to pirate back one of their own at Saban's expense? Your thoughts, HuskerDawg and Cabbage?

I'll believe it when I'll see it, Mr. Tuberville. The Air Raid is a fascinating thing. Still think Ruffin McNeill is the best fit for the program.

Golf: Freddie Couples in the Champions Tour? Repeat winner in Kapalua. But since Tiger's not around, we will not really care.

Futbol alert: If you think violence in your side of the woods is serious. It's nothing compared to what went on in the African Cup of Nations.

Welcome to the shootout at Glendale. Their prize: another shootout, this time in the Bayou. Care to set an over/under for this game?

Kurt Warner, take your time. But if it is the end, nice parting gift. 5 TDs > 4 incompletions. Makes you wonder what happened in New York back then.

On the other hand, The Ravens-Patriots game can be compared to what Ricky Hatton felt when he faced the PacMan. Now they get another shot at Indy.

Here is a quickie preview for next week.

Videos: This week is a tribute to Lebron James.




Allow me one final poke at Floyd (pick one from here):

You Play to Win the Game. Hellloooooo!!!!

Thanks to Sparty for this video goodness. Playoffs?

Creating an All-2000s NBA roster (West)

One of the reasons it took me a while before the TWTWTNBA got posted was trying to figure out what to post. As such, since it was the end of a decade, I decided to construct a team from this past decade (00-09).

Here are the rules.

Encompasses all players who started their rookie year in the 2000-01 season onwards. This means, as much as John wants to put Paul Pierce in all 15 slots (yes, I included the inactives), I cannot do that (FYI, The Truth was Batch 98.).

I also selected a particular season for each player.

Coaches were qualified based on their first gig being from 2000 onwards (No Phil Jackson or Pop. D'Antoni was almost there, but he started in 1999)

1st Team West:
G - Chris Paul (07-08), Deron Williams (07-08),
F - Kevin Durant (09-10), Carmelo Anthony (09-10)
C - Pau Gasol (08-09)

Bench:
G - Tony Parker (06-07), Brandon Roy (09-10), Manu Ginobili (07-08)
F - Andrei Kirilenko (03-04), Al Jefferson (08-09), Amare Stoudemire (07-08)
C - Yao Ming (07-08)

Inactives:
Chris Kaman (09-10), Carlos Boozer (07-08), Kevin Martin (08-09)

Coach: Nate McMillan

Looking at the Roster: Solid Team built on the halfcourt set. Whether it is Pick and Roll or DDR or normal halfcourt sets that you always see, they have the tools necessary. They also have a huge depth in big men. You can pound it in all the time and let the bigs eat the opposition alive.

2nd Team West:
G - Monta Ellis (07-08), Tyreke Evans (09-10)
F - Stephen Jackson (07-08), David West (08-09)
C - LaMarcus Aldridge (09-10)

Bench:
G - Jason Richardson (05-06), Russell Westbrook (09-10), OJ Mayo (09-10)
F - Josh Howard (07-08), Rudy Gay (09-10)
C - Mehmet Okur (05-06), Marc Gasol (09-10)

Inactives:
Paul Millsap (08-09), Zach Randolph (08-09), Leandro Barbosa (06-07)

Coach: Scott Brooks

Looking at the Roster: I chose Scott Brooks because he is able to work with the Core in Oklahoma City, given the relative youth of the lineup. Lionel Hollins would be an alternative, considering the some of the core Grizzlies are present. This team is geared towards a high-octane fastbreaking offense ala SSOL.

Creating an All-2000s NBA roster (East)

One of the reasons it took me a while before the TWTWTNBA got posted was trying to figure out what to post. As such, since it was the end of a decade, I decided to construct a team from this past decade (00-09).

Here are the rules.

Player pool encompasses all players who started their rookie year in the 2000-01 season onwards. This means, as much as John wants to put Paul Pierce in all 15 slots (yes, I included the inactive roster), I cannot do that as, The Truth was from Batch 98.

I also selected a particular season for each player.

Coaches were qualified based on their first gig being from 2000 onwards (No Phil Jackson or Pop. D'Antoni almost made it, but he started in 1999)

1st Team East:
G - Dwayne Wade (08-09), Derrick Rose (08-09)
F - Lebron James (08-09), Danny Granger (08-09)
C - Dwight Howard (08-09)

Bench:
G - Joe Johnson (07-08), Michael Redd (05-06), Gilbert Arenas (05-06)
F - Caron Butler (07-08), Gerald Wallace (09-10), Josh Smith (09-10)
C - Chris Bosh (09-10)

Inactives:
Mo Williams (08-09), Andre Iguodala (08-09), Emeka Okafor (06-07)

Coach: Doc Rivers

Looking at the roster: This team is built for the freewheeling transition game. Easy buckets. They don't have size, but they have athleticism. Their bigs probably have one objective: to get the boards and solidify the low post. They also have licensed shooters (pun intended in Gilbert's case) off the bench. Lebron and Rose will be the primary ball handlers.

2nd Team East:
G - Rajon Rondo (09-10), Devin Harris (08-09),
F - Hedo Turkoglu (08-09), Tayshaun Prince (08-09)
C - David Lee (09-10)

Bench:
G - Ben Gordon (06-07), Brandon Jennings (09-10), Jameer Nelson (08-09)
F - Kenyon Martin (03-04), Richard Jefferson (05-06)
C - Joakim Noah (09-10), Brook Lopez (09-10),

Inactives:
Luol Deng (06-07), Anderson Varejao (09-10), Troy Murphy (08-09)

Coach: Lawrence Frank

Looking at the Roster: The DDR offense might be the best applicable offense, given the skill set. Considering the number of Nets in the lineup, must be a good fit to have the former Nets coach handle the reins.

Blog Outsourcing 1/4

I hope you had a blessed New Year weekend. It's back to normalcy. It's back to work. It's back to the dullness. Back to the lemming syndrome most of the world has to deal with. I myself will be at the office tonight (today for you guys)

So how can you cure that? Here are some good ideas.

1. Volunteer.  There are good organizations out there that would benefit well from what you do best. You can even donate. The world would be a better place. Whether donating cash or spending time or even donating blood.
2. Exercise. Do I have to explain after eating a roasted pig, pizza, pasta and ham during the past two weeks?
3. Partake of Local Culture.  Of course, there's more to learn about your own.

As such, since Fantasy Football season is now officially over for the regular season, are we going to have a Playoff pick 'em or challenge? I wish I could be competitive there.

Btw, NFL Films says these games were the best of the 2009 regular season: Pittsburgh - Minnesota (Favre's first loss this season), Indianapolis - New England (4th and 2), Detroit - Cleveland (Stafford game winner), New Orleans - Washington (Suisham miss), Green Bay - Pittsburgh (Mike Wallace and 60 minutes)

Fantasy Update:

S&F League: Sparty wins over JDS, 165-140. Favre and Long finishes 3rd, 175-145. I win my matchup, 165-133.
M&F League: Patphish wins a close one over Sae, 185-181. Mikey whooped GITC, 157-97. I merely tied TONS at 161.
Pick 'Em: Tila Tequila Ate My Balls wins by 2 over Futbol Pick.... Just happy to finish 8th, because someone forgot to put his picks in *ahem*Big D*ahem*
Eliminator: I ended like the Indianapolis Colts, missing on my last two picks (Thanks, Tampa Bay and Cleveland). However, Rek was able to fish a tie with 15. He actually had the chance to end up with a higher score, but he would blame Brandon Marshall and Josh McDaniels.
Bowl Mania: Let's put it this way: the highest Max score belongs to C. Hirsch with 381. Patphish is close with 377. Johnny has 375. Kwsn and Jen also have a higher Max Score than the current leader.
Time to do the link love:

Just like last week the Manning Family lost. Archie's Saints, Peyton's Colts, and Eli's Giants.

Goodell thinks tanking is not good, so he is looking for a solution.

Giants Stadium gets a proper farewell.

At least, the Boy named Suh won't have to move far from the fields of Lincoln. The St. Louis Rams are now on the clock.

Perfect symmetry: Broncos start 6-0, finish 8-8. Titans start 0-6, finish 8-8. And they both have 2k rushers in their franchise history.

He might be the next victim of the Madden Curse.

By the way, today is Black Monday. We already know a dead man walking. But one is safe (Houston), another looks safe (Carolina) and another might have an argument (Cleveland).  And of course, there is that chin being sneaky.

This Bill Polian's argument for what they did. Julian Edelman better get ready to catch a lot of balls.

You would think he would be signed by the Hoodie for next year.

We here gets lots of cases regarding firecrackers. Never knew it could happen on your side of coast.

A scathing criticism of the handling by the WWWL on the Texas Tech crisis. By the way, they should be rehiring McNeill ala the Bill Stewart route and consider what the Texas Tech administration are doing as window dressing.

GatorTrey must be loving this. Oh, and Pat White's ok. You can breathe now. I just want to commend the sportsmanship of the Steelers during that whole process. But you're losing an awesome corner.

Unfortunately, it was not because of a punch to the throat.

Why so serious, Gilbert? Oh, and his Twitter is a must-read the way the Starbury videostream was a must-see.

Are you ready for the Monday Night Wars (Redux)?

A crushed throat will not deter him. Kudos to the Senior Bowl peeps.

The punishment may be just, but the postseason ban might be too much and it is unfair to the student-athlete.

He brings in the money when he boxes, but he does not when he acts. You get the idea? (UPDATE: this contains updated numbers) Just for your reference: PhP 46.03 = $1.

The idea is nice, kudos to Wake and Xavier.

And I still believe they will get it on. Too much riding on it.

Futbol update: Man U gets ejected from the FA Cup.

Video time:

Dedicated to WildCard Weekend (Because all games will be rematches, 3 of them from yesterday)

Blog Outsourcing 12/28

Hello all. I make my Monday return. Last week, I felt really lethargic and it showed until Sparty made the save. Thanks, Sparty. I needed a little pep talk, and I got it, and I thank Sparty for that.

I have had a long 2009, for me, where I live, and for the world in general. One simple thing I want to say, I just want to get 2009 out of my system. But one thing for sure, being officially part of the Sparty & Friends family is one of the highlights. Now onto to the meat.

Fantasy Update: Pending the MNF Game.

Sparty & Friends League: SMTT leading by 4 over JDS. On my end, ALAC leading Hawk 94-70.

Mikey & Friends League: Pat leading Sae 114-98. On my end, ALAC trailing TONS 89-76.

Pick 'Em: Tila Tequila Ate My Balls with a 2-pt lead over Futbol Pick, Where's ManU. On my end, I'm 9th, one pt behind Hawkeye.

Eliminator: I hate you, Tampa Bay. I hate you. Same hate applies to Garrett Hartley.

College Bowl Mania: Let's just say that Johnny, Sae and Rek have the most PPR and the highest Max available belong to Johnny and Rek.

Before I provide the links, here is your mandatory volcanic coverage. Again, I am safe and sound. The volcano is far far away from the place.



Link love:

So, Urban pulled a Donovan. Yes, I think he will be back for Year 1 of the A.T. (After Tebow) Era.

If you miss the no mercy nature of your opponent, go to global hockey.

Saints lost again. Must be bad juju from Tom Benson. Then again, bad juju for the Manning family today. Archie's Saints, Peyton's Colts and Eli's Giants all lost.

Will you vote for Andre Dawson?

Bengals finally win the North. Their reward is a simple flex. Maybe this would be a better farewell to Giants Stadium.

This looks dated, but these happened @ Giants Stadium, considering what happened yesterday will not be counted.

Futbol Update: I missed doing this on my posts. Meanwhile, the other team in Manchester gets a nice win.

While waiting for the Team of the Decade posts of Sparty, do you argue that they are absolute busts?

Case in point why the Bowl System is needed.

You would think they are succeeding, but they just got shut out by a team that is also struggling. Plus when your big buy this year mouths off, you know the end of the Zorn era is near.

I find this map very interesting in trying to track golf.

What if Hendrick Motorsports offered to work on Santa's sleigh?

Yes, I know Paul Pierce is out, but I need to express glee as the Clippers eke one out. Bingo!

Video Slots:
Loving dedicated to (traditionally) the Dallas Cowboys.


I am sure we can all relate to this question:

The Week That Was The NBA a.k.a - TWTWTNBA - December 16

Because of what someone wrote, I decided to make an emergency post instead of what I had in mind for this week. Since I had time (when I would have wanted to be in a conference call that unfortunately I had to miss when I would have preferred not to), I ought to write my own views on this. So let's start.

1. I agree that it will take a miracle for the G-Men to advance. A lot of dominoes have to fall in place, but they need to start to win out first, starting with the Redskins. As for the Spartans, at least it is the college basketball season.

2. The NBA has the least parity. But as long as the bellwether teams are doing mostly alright, things will be fine.

3. As a Clipper fan, I am partially a bit pleased with the T'wolves state of mind. I just need them to keep that up until the time when we have a chance at snagging the top overall pick they might get.

4. This is the complete list of free agents this summer. They key is what will be the cap space for 2010. It is said to be projected at between $50-53 million.

5. Lebron: Let's see what the Nyets can do. And of course, the Knicks. All we know is that he pays homage to Akron, not Cleveland. I would think he would test the market before he responds. He has never been highly recruited, so this is like a first for him.

6. Wade: I think he stays, but the pull of Chi-town is interesting. In addition, the Bulls have a plethora of assets they can move.

7. Amare: He is a huge risky target, with his recent injury-prone tendencies. I still have issues with their penny-pinching owner.

8. Dirk: No way he leaves. There is a reason why the Mavs are constructed the way they are. Besides, the shock it would bring would be like what this is.

9. Jesus Shuttlesworth: Veteran shooter with a ring. I am sure a lot of teams with space for an MLE or a smart winning team with a veteran's minimum would love to have him around.

10. Tyson Chandler: One thing I know is that if you have a modicum of talent and you are 7'0", you will get paid. Ask Jerome James and DeSagana Diop.

11. Manu: the so-called Bat-killer is not going anywhere. He owes it too much to the Spurs. Reduced salary will help this team rebuild on the fly as the transition of the post-Duncan era continues in its natural pace.

12. RJeff: The interesting thing is, the Spurs have not been the type of team to overspend to keep guys. Pop and Buford sure know what they are doing.

13. Joe Johnson: You better hope J-Smooth, Marvin, Al and Mike find a way to convince him to stay. But they thought of plan B (trading for Jamal Crawford) already in case he leaves. I know going from JJ to Crawford is huge, but that ownership is questionable.

14. T-Mac: This season is a tryout open for everyone to see what he can still pull off. Same for the Answer.

15. Yao: It is unlikely he leaves. There is too much going on. Not his style also.

16. Redd: The successor to Walter Ray in Milwaukee is in the same situation as he is.

17. CB4: I agree, he is the major chip that will likely move. Depends on who offers the most.

18. Amongst the second-tier players mentioned, J-Smooth is locked in the ATL for a while.

19. Again, it is all about the cap space and what the guys do early. I won't be surprised if it will be a thud, but I won't dismiss it that easy.

20. John Wall to the Nyets is nice. Hmmm...

Myself as a NFL Pro Bowl selector (defense / special teams)

It is about that time of year that the ProBowl roster for the NFL will be named. Here are probably the most deserving ones, based on performance. (and possibly reputation)

I selected these people before Week 14 Sunday games and after the Thursday debacle in Cleveland (for Steeler fans). And these were on the ballot during that day. You may freely argue with me over the selections.

And so, here we go:

On the Defensive side of the ball!

select 1 SS

NFC:

Adrian Wilson (Arizona)

AFC:

Brian Dawkins (Denver)

select 3 CB

NFC:

Asante Samuel (Philadelphia)
Charles Woodson (Green Bay)
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Arizona)

AFC:

Champ Bailey (Denver)
Darrelle Revis (New York)
Nnamdi Asomugha (Oakland)

select 3 DE

NFC:

Jared Allen (Minnesota)
Justin Tuck (New York)
Will Smith (New Orleans)

AFC:

Dwight Freeney (Indianapolis)
Mario Williams (Houston)
Robert Geathers (Cincinnati)


select 3 DT

NFC:

Albert Haynesworth (Washington)
Kevin Williams (Minnesota)
Pat Williams (Minnesota)

AFC:

Haloti Ngata (Baltimore)
Marcus Stroud (Buffalo)
Vince Wilfork (New England)

select 1 FS

NFC:

Darren Sharper (New Orleans)


AFC:

Ed Reed (Baltimore)

select 2 ILB

NFC:

A.J. Hawk (Green Bay)
Karlos Dansby (Arizona)

AFC:

Bart Scott (New York)
Ray Lewis (Baltimore)

select 3 OLB

NFC:

Chad Greenway (Minnesota)
DeMarcus Ware (Dallas)
Lance Briggs (Chicago)

AFC:

Brian Cushing (Houston)
James Harrison (Pittsburgh)
Rey Maualuga (Cincinnati)


select 1 KR

NFC:

Percy Harvin (Minnesota)

AFC:

Joshua Cribbs (Cleveland)

select 1 K

NFC:

Neil Rackers (Arizona)

AFC:

Rob Bironas (Tennessee)

select 1 P

NFC:

Brad Maynard (Chicago)

AFC:

Shane Lechler (Oakland)


select 1 ST

NFC:

Sean Morey (Arizona)

AFC:

Kassim Osgood (San Diego)

Observations:

1. Not much from Pittsburgh and New England. Obviously, both teams have had issues on that side of the ball.
2. Ridiculous depth in the AFC corners.
3. May be shooting blind regarding the front 7. Hope I got it right.

Myself as a NFL Pro Bowl selector (offense)

It is about that time of year that the ProBowl roster for the NFL will be named. Here are probably the most deserving ones, based on performance. (and possibly reputation)

I selected these people before Week 14 Sunday games and after the Thursday debacle in Cleveland (for Steeler fans). And these were on the ballot during that day. You may freely argue with me over the selections.

And so, here we go:

On the offensive side of the ball!

select 3 QBs

NFC:

Drew Brees (New Orleans)
Brett Favre (Minnesota)
Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay)

AFC:

Peyton Manning (Indianapolis)
Tom Brady (New England)
Philip Rivers (San Diego)

select 3 RB

NFC:

Adrian Peterson (Minnesota)
Frank Gore (San Francisco)
Stephen Jackson (St. Louis)

AFC:

Cedric Benson (Cincinnati)
Chris Johnson (Tennessee)
Maurice Jones-Drew (Jacksonville)

select 4 WR

NFC:

Desean Jackson (Philadelphia)
Larry Fitzgerald (Arizona)
Marques Colston (New Orleans)
Sidney Rice (Minnesota)

AFC:

Andre Johnson (Houston)
Randy Moss (New England)
Reggie Wayne (Indianapolis)
Wes Welker (New England)


select 2 TE

NFC:

Tony Gonzalez (Atlanta)
Vernon Davis (San Francisco)

AFC:

Antonio Gates (San Diego)
Dallas Clark (Indianapolis)

select 2 C

NFC:

Jonathan Sullivan (Minnesota)
Jonathan Goodwin (New Orleans)

AFC:

Jeff Saturday (Indianapolis)
Nick Mangold (New York)

select 3 T

NFC:

Bryant McKinnie (Minnesota)
Jermon Bushrod (New Orleans)
Phil Loadholt (Minnesota)

AFC:

D'Brickashaw Ferguson (New York)
Michael Oher (Baltimore)
Michael Roos (Tennessee)


select 3 G

NFC:

Deuce Lutui (Arizona)
Leonard Davis (Dallas)
Steve Hutchinson (Minnesota)

AFC:

Alan Faneca (New York)
Ben Hamilton (Denver)
Brian Waters (Kansas City)

select 1 FB

NFC:

Mike Sellers (Washington)

AFC:

Tony Richardson (New York)

Observations:

1. Leaving Thomas Jones out was hard. Had to give props to Cedric Benson. Ditto with Carson Palmer.
2. Nice WR depth overall.
3. Picking linemen is picking blind.

Blog Outsourcing 12/ 14

Welcome to the Monday edition of the TMA!

It is only 11 days to go before the day most people look forward to. As the days grow closer and closer, the anticipation goes higher and higher, gets even more chilly and the expectation of giving gets even more intense.

Meanwhile, I have been struggling with insomnia. Definitely the after-effects of my graveyard work, I need to gets this addressed when it comes to the weekends. I need to get things re-wired already. Oh well.

On the other hand, I enjoyed the weekend. My relatives who immigrated to Canada are home again, while another international artist comes to my shores.

And so, the let's begin the link love, shall we?


Don Cherry is to blame for the violence?

It must be those uniforms, they look eerily famillar, right?

One sign it is almost the end of the College Football season. We all wait with baited breath for TWTWCFB.

Lane Kiffin News: Compliments, really?

Hecklers, beware of this guy.

The first aftershock of the Tiger Zoo.

Quitters never win, but somehow his team did.

Two things are certain: when it is December, it is good to be a Bolt and bad to be a Cowboy.

21 teams got off less completions than this guy's feat.

Mark Cuban and Jerry Jones to team up again?

Nice way to close out the year for the best.school.ever.

Futbol update: This football game settles who's the best on the field, not by arbitrarily. Also, more issues for these Reds.

Video time:
I like the beat.


More local stuff:


Happy Holidays from the islands!

Blog Outsourcing 12/7

Today is an important day, especially for those of the Greatest Generation. These days, we must not forget those who lost their lives on that fateful day.

I thought about doing a World Cup post regarding the draw, but decided not to since anything can happen from now until June 2010. We all thought that Davies would be a lock for the US National Team, but something happened. Now he's questionable.

Anyhow, I spent yesterday afternoon checking out the trains. Being a photogeek, I took my trusty camera and took shots of the scene. But more important, it is essential that the community know what that it commemorates. And I felt that the objective was made.

And I know that TWTWCFB will cover this, but I just do not like the idea of the minnows facing each other.

Time for some link love:

Never has tying shoelaces been this controversial.

Talk about homerism, i thought the announcers had to be impartial.

This is the last Bowden Bowl.

I never knew that they could be on ice.

I wonder how many of you want to be healed with beer?

Hmmm... Tiger needs to work on his taste. I think I have better taste, take a look at this:



Another reason why smoking is not good for you.

Surf's up, dude. Maybe they can take on these waves.

Personally, I am very very disappointed also for them. They deserve to face the big boys.

Really, Marco Scutaro is the guy that can help the Sawx?

Sparty, care to fill in the details for this? Cashman being cryptic.

Maybe he could succeed Bud in 2012.

Get well soon, Ej. Third major injury in the past few days.

Army vs Navy has huge stakes for someone.

CGB: What can you say about Mike London at Charlottesville? Hope it can avert something like this...

Futbol update: Better start to get to know some World Cup studs.

The Answer is to start. He is on one of my teams, and I need him to start clicking right from the get go.

I hate to be Shaun Suisham right now.

In order to succeed greatness, one must show respect to greatness.

Last thing:

Because you can hear this song in the Vatican playlist:


I love the Transformer concept... Let's dance, shall we...

NBA update so far (Thanksgiving edition)

Welcome to the 2nd TWTWTNBA. I have decided to make it a bi-weekly format for the interim, since after all, it is way too early. This time, since it is Thanksgiving, I would answer this question, Why I am thankful for?

First things first, my thoughts on the Answer's retirement. I think he is the poster child of the mid-90s to pre-Lebron era, when cornrows and thuggery was the norm, when Portland was known as the Jailbrazers. It's sad that he went out this way. I wish some team can figure this out right. Paging some Eastern Conference team...

As for the latest news on Lawrence Frank, I wish him well. He is the obvious scapegoat. I think Chris Paul and the dribble-drive offense would be a good fit.

And here we go:

Atlanta: That we have the best record in the Eastern Conference right now. (this was written before the Orlando game)
Boston: That GITC finally got in a Paul Pierce Stud sighting (or 2). But i would like to see a Sheed that is in shape and motivated and a KG that is fully healthy.
Charlotte: That Stephen Jackson has not blown up on them.
Chicago: That Joakim Noah is making the leap of being a serviceable center.
Cleveland: we have Lebron not making any more weird statements. But I would rather have a guarantee he would be staying.
Dallas: That they are atop the Southwest Division with the player with the 2nd most assists in history.
Denver: That Ty Lawson might be the successor to Chauncey Billups.
Detroit: Will Bynum being a quality 6th Man of the year and MIP candidate.
Golden State: That they have the endurance to play 48 minutes without subbing. But I would like to have less dysfunction.
Houston: That they have not fallen out of the race without Yao and Tracy.
Indiana: That they have the Colts to take the headlines (for now).
Los Angeles Clippers: That Chris Kaman may be the best low post presence in LA.
Los Angeles Lakers: That Ron Artest has not yet gone bad crazy. And that no one has punched the Neckbeard in the throat yet.
Memphis: That the Iverson experiment ended already. We already have enough ballhogs.
Miami: Michael Beasley is in his good graces.
Milwaukee: That Brandon Jennings is a stud. Also being 8-5. But I wish they can shoot FT's better. (3rd worst in the NBA)
Minnesota: For that one win, even though it came at a buzzer beater.
New Jersey: Is thankful for the "injury" excuse, because Lawrence Frank would have been fired already.
At least we still have Jay-Z as an owner. And Brooklyn beckons. UPDATE: Coach Frank has been fired.
New Orleans: That we have a nice gem of a find in Marcus Thornton. But I would much much rather have Chris Paul healthy again.
New York: That the Yankees won their 27th title and that their leadership will be going for some guy in the offseason.
Oklahoma City: That Kevin Durant fell into our laps. But I'd rather have the franchise another way other than taking it from the Sonics.
Orlando: That i have a deep lineup that can cause havoc in the East. But i would like a less whiny Dwight with a retinue of post moves.
Philadelphia: that they are the most ideal situation for some guy who was said to be "forcibly retired."
Portland: For the continued development of Greg Oden.
Phoenix: the SSOL is back, revving up and having the best record in the League.
Sacramento: That we have eight wins (and at .500) already for a team considered to be the worst in the League.
San Antonio: That the usual cruisin portion of the season has already netted 5 straight wins.
Toronto: That Andrea Bargnani is finally getting it. And that they are the second best team in their division.
Utah: That Jerry Sloan has no plans on retiring, ensuring stability on the floor.
Washington: for the goodness of Abe Pollin. Good luck, Ted Leonsis.

(Belated) Happy Thanksgiving.

Blog Outsourcing 11/30

Greetings! It is a holiday here in the islands, but when you enter your comments, I will be at work. My office, which is part of the outsourcing industry, relies on the American Holidays, so I was pleased to enjoy the mini-sabbatical to do something I have not done in a looooong time, which is bar hop to watch independent local music acts. Friday night was at a fund raiser for this organization. Saturday night was an album launch while earlier that day was spent doing a little charity work. Ever since I have gone graveyard (or work in the same time frame as Sparty), I haven't gone out and about going to gigs and watching bands and artists strut their stuff. At the same time, I have not been able to go on my CD binges that I have missed out on.

Let's take a peek at the linkages.

Things have not changed 4 years hence for Matty and Vince. In this case, Miz > Fiesta Trio

These Colts are the Cardiac Colts. Does Kwsn approve? I believe so. Interesting fact: Colts have trailed in all 4th quarters this month before pulling out the rabbit.

Things are looking good for J-Rod. Purple Jesus just did Sae a favor in ousting Da Bears.

Clippers have new company where they are. This guy is an easy scapegoat.

Parting is such sweet sorrow. Does CGB approve? They would say, long time coming.

Is he clearing out for Patphish? What would Patphish bring to the table? Maybe you have your suggestions. Help him reach his goal.

Tiger tells us to STFU and leave him alone in his domain. Maybe Trey can use his lawya skills.

I do not drink alcohol. I wonder if this is for Big D's to dominate.

For this guy and this guy, it's up to the AD's now. I think both stay.

World Cup update: How do you prepare for hooligans?

New meaning for football as religion.

Football has already ended somewhere.

Good day for Sparty. Unfortunately, does not cure the misery of losing to Trey.

Parting Videos:
She is one of the ones I watched in my music gigs. Perfect for the Thanksgiving vibe.


Here is another one of my music gimmick journeys.


Hope you enjoyed the weekend.

Blog Outsourcing - November 23, 2009

Greetings in what would be a holiday-filled week for you guys (and in-relation to that, me as well).

Yesterday, I managed to get myself into a 3k Fun Run. For a guy who is portly at 76.2 kgs (that's 168 lbs for English system believers), I definitely need it and deserve it. For those who want to know, I finished the run at a little over 35 minutes. For a dude who never took part in a run before, that was relatively decent.

Just a reminder as there are people who will be eating turkeys this week. A suggestion as to what you can do to shed excess calories.

I wish i could be of better use, but the interwebs is wonky at home and i had to spend a little bit to get this done.

Here are the link-love:

Here is the lowdown on the girl on the picture today.

Why is Patphish not on this list? Didn't he go to South Bend already to present himself?

Speaking of South Bend, even the leader of the free world is not spared from the mess.

Denny won the skirmish, but Jimmie is part of history.

What would be your ice cream flavor?

Will you buy a Griffin vs Ortiz III MMA PPV? Save it for PacMan vs Mayweather.

Man"Genius" may be looking over his shoulder soon.

I am sure hockey fans will approve of this goal.

I wonder why he is always mad when i listen to the ATH podcasts.

Jackie Robinson definitely he is not. But he has a better chance than she would.

Weird torture strategy? Maybe for Packers fans.

Victims of political correctness? BINGO!!!

There are some who take the football as a religion too much...

Think you can turn them around?

They are a package deal in perpetuity....

Futbol update: Just as you think things can get better for Beckham, there is always a reality check. And 9-1. Yes. that is a soccer score, not a baseball score.

Get your pigskin update:

Parting video:

I am sure you want to have a video phone.


Because this is a better rendition of the theme song compared to Mutemath.

Blog Outsourcing 11/16

80's -Survivor - Eye of the Tiger (from ROCKY).mp3


I have to admit, I had a great weekend. This one capped it off. The day before, i was here.

It feels good that one of your countrymen made you proud of your heritage. It feels good that you were watching this moment. It feels good that you saw it happen. It feels good that everyone embraced it.

Now, all I need is the HBO broadcast feed of this event on torrent, to be stored and kept for safekeeping.

Time for some specific PacMan link love:

Even the others Filipinos won their matches (except Brandon Vera and the ones who fought on Friday the 13th). However, one boxer is in critical condition.

The first step has been taken. Do it already as the Master has called for it.

Look at those who were at the event. PacMan is a boxing stud.

Time stands still in the Philippines.

And the best thing? No ego whatsoever.

Oh, and to put it in College Football terms. Pacquiao has SEC speed.

Now for a different set of links: (The Non-PacMan edition)

Bud Adams must hate Ralph Wilson. But definitely a satisfying experience, right?

Will you accept his apology? It was 6 pts, after all. It could have made a difference.

Nothing like the first time for a lady. Interesting she did it at the same age as this guy.

Big D has a scheduled post regarding this. KWSN approves of the weekend.

Chad OchoCinco lost a gamble, but won the war. He needs to pay up. Look at T.O. for example, he complied with his end.

Speaking of war, lots of attrition going on. It has been brutal.

Trevor Ariza was the happiest guy today.

I wonder how many players Lebron can sell this idea to? Answer: 12 (including Lebron himself).

Looks like we will know the state of Weis until after the season. Is Patphish willing to wait?

USC got schooled by the smart guys of Stanford. And these smart guys are being smart by keeping him away from South Bend. And yes, the shoe was on the other foot.

More talk of this in the TWTWCFB.

I am very sure Sparty has tuned out of Dantonio in favor of Izzo by now. And in typical Izzo style, he schedules hard. Look who's next.

I love the mid-majors.

PacMan Videos of the Day:

Just because it's PacMan.


Here is another PacMan special.


And i did not forget...

The Week That Was The NBA a.k.a - TWTWTNBA - 1st edition

Welcome to the first-ever TWTWTNBA, where I will see and check on the state of the League (divisional style).

Atlantic: Knicks, Nets, Raptors, Celtics, Sixers

Hall of Heroes - The Celtics maintaining their edge. 3.5 games ahead of the Raptors and Sixers. In addition, they retain Rajon Rondo.

Goat Center - Nets remaining winless this season. But with the likes of Devin Harris, Chris Douglas-Roberts, Jarvis Hayes, Yi Jianlian all hurt. It is expected that they will struggle.

Your worst nightmare - The New York Knicks. 1-8. Chris Duhon ripping the team earlier this season, then just gets 2 assts in their last game.

Central: Cavs, Pistons, Pacers, Bulls, Bucks

Hall of Heroes - Will Bynum being awesome as the 6th man that Allen Iverson should have been. Also, Brandon Jennings is the early ROY leader.

Goat Center - Bulls getting robbed of a victory because of bad clock timing. It is not often that the home team gets jobbed.

Your worst nightmare - Lebron finally ending all free agency talk, but sometimes, you do not have to say something to make a statement.

Southeast: Magic, Wizards, Hawks, Bobcats, Heat

Hall of Heroes - Wade is having a ball in Miami. On top of the division and no concerns regarding free agency speculation. Even His Airness likes him enough. Oh, and the Cavs come calling tonight.

Goat Center - The Wizards have lost 5 straight. Other than the Nets, they (along with the Knicks) have the longest losing streak in the Eastern Conference. Injury issues forced them to sign a familiar face.

Your worst nightmare - This box score encapsulates all things not good.

Northwest: Timberwolves, Blazers, Jazz, Thunder, Nuggets

Hall of Heroes - Carmelo Anthony is becoming MVP material. In addition, The Thunder won their 4th game already. It took them until New Year's Eve last year to do such.

Goat Center - The Blazers initially mishandled the Andre Miller situation. Although they remedied that by starting a small lineup.

Your worst nightmare - 8 straight losses for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Could have been 9 if it were not for this.

Southwest: Mavericks, Spurs, Rockets, Hornets, Grizzlies

Hall of Heroes - Texas teams stamping their class. Dallas dealing the champs their only loss. Houston being feisty. The new Spurs rejuvenating the vets and Manu being the new Batman.

Goat Center - Grizzlies getting the Mutombo treatment from Carl Landry.

Your worst nightmare - The whole Iverson situation. Local TV was broadcasting the Grizzlies-Blazers game (same game where Thabeet broke his jaw). Broadcasters were saying that Mike Conley was scared of Allen Iverson. That he could not really play well the way he could play. With AI out, Conley has been able to breathe easy.

Pacific: Kings, Lakers, Clippers, Suns, Warriors

Hall of Heroes - The SSOL Suns are back. 8-1 record. Nash pulled off a 20 assist game.

Goat Center - Al Thornton. He has just been benched. The Clips then pulled off a three-game winning streak.

Your worst nightmare - The Stephen Jackson mess in Golden State. That marriage has gone south absolutely. At least they managed to mangle the T'wolves.

Blog Outsourcing 11/9

Awesome weekend. I know yesterday was bad for certain people *cough*patphish*cough* but it was good for some *cough*kwsn*cough*.

The date proves to be a good alliteration with the WSOP ongoing. But this week, it is a special one, as by the end of the week, it is already the big PPV event in a place called Las Vegas. Then again, as what someone has raised, apparently, only I care about it. So there.

I know someone is really pissed with some team, so let's go to the links:

This is what happened on this date.  I never knew Atlanta had a NHL franchise before the Thrashers. And Larry vs Dr. J. Wow.

This woman definitely has more toughness than some men. Redneck material? But these people would fit in nicely.

The next Gus Johnson could be in the race track.

Bad news just keeps on going and going for the Redskins. Portis goes down, then DeAngelo gets hit.

Expect a visit to the omnipotent Roger Goodell, Chad. This is not the NBA. However, he is smart enough to know it was done in jest and expected it. So, child, please.

The new Ana Ivanovic? You decide.

If you were Richmond, you would release f-bombs, too.

Futbol update: Chelsea beats Man U. Fergie being really whiny.

The South looked good. Colts and Saints stay unbeaten. and the Creamsicle is rocking, here, look:



Unfortunately, the North cannot say that. the Bears and the aformentioned Packers lost. Only 1 win for both Conferences, with 3 on byes and pending Monday Night.

Ken Whisenhunt knows how to work the mic. And when Mike Singletary is around, good sound clips are always ready.

Well, it is never too early to set up the Manning vs Brady on Sunday Night Football.

Seriously, this is no laughing matter. Kidnapping is a bad bad thing.

A simple preview for TWTWCFB to be in depth. One thing. How is USC ahead of the Ducks?

Parting videos:

Because Leighton Meester is hot:


And because he can sing and if you have a problem, he will knock you out:


One last thing to say, tonight is the start of the journey towards the Madness. the Race to the Lucas Oil Stadium is on.

Dare to be Fit N' Right

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend an event in Taste Asia. It was sponsored by Del Monte Fit N' Right (It was the first event I attended after Dad passed away).

People have been asking me to lose weight. People have been wondering what the **** am I doing, so here. Here is a plan to "remedy" situation.

I will be joining the Dare to be Fit N' Right Fun Run (specifically the 3k portion, but there is the 5k and 10k Men's and Women's Open Run) on November 22 at the SM Mall of Asia. Call time is at 4am in front of the Music Hall. (Yes, it is personally ungodly, but what else is new).

You can already register here for the Fun Run. You can also go to the (1) CEMG Office – Unit 3A Vernida I Bldg., Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City (look for Marianne Tapales (892.5842/09155498282), (2) Dare to be Fit ‘n Right booths in Bonifacio High Street, Taguig plus SM Hypermart in Mall of Asia, Sucat, Pasig, and North EDSA, (3) Fitness First branches on November 16. Registration fee is only P300.

Prizes await the winners! And remember, proceeds to this event will go to relief efforts for Ketsana and Parma (locally known as Ondoy and Pepeng) via the SM Foundation.

More details can be had here if you have questions and clarifications.

Note: I really need exercise and since I won the right to participate this event, I fully intend to participate in it. I hope you do it as well. Preliminary warm-up? Jogging from MOA in front to back end of the Music Hall (where we are supposed to be for the call time).

So what did I learn from the experience? The bloggers were involved in it as well, with the Fast Interval Training (FIT) workout regimen being taught to us by Coach Jim Saret. The FIT regimen emphasizes calorie-burning as a way of staying fit. It's short bursts of intensive exercises that would ensure that even after the workout, you are still burning calories. This would be helped with a dosage of Fit N' Right (either the drink or the fruit snack). It contains L-Carnetine, a substance that aids in burning calories and raises metabolism.

Hopefully, I can get the needed exercise as people have really really thought that i have no hope. LOL.

Blog Outsourcing 11/2

Happy All Souls Day! I spent the weekend with the family visiting the dead. It is tradition to spend November 1 with the departed ones. I hope you guys were able to adjust your clocks appropriately.

Anyway, as the weather turns, the cold freezing air is getting to me. You just get the feeling that it is that time of the year. I wish alongside the changes bring a positive vibration and feeling.

Link love time:

All about New York and Philly. Halloween, the NBA. Yesterday, on the Linc and in the Bank. And how some celebrated both.

You know that at this time of the year, it is this guy's moment.

This just in, Rex Ryan allows another Ted Ginn Kickoff Return TD. Yet I still benched the Dolphins D. Luckily for me, I started this D against Sparty.

Apparently, Bart Scott knows what it takes to be a Super Bowl contender.

Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre . (Inspired by a Trey post from S&F).

Bud Adams knows how to push buttons Because of Vince Young. With the Titans and Rams winning, the Bucs are the last team left.

Could be a future recruit for Bammer. Could be for Oakland. Maybe Cleveland.

Because JJ Redick has too much time on his hands.

Reggie Wayne is nicknamed Batman. Maybe Manu Ginobili is a better Batman. He has the looks, right?

I plan on running a 3k a few weeks from now. This should be a reminder.

Suggestion for goal celebrations in these hard times.

The World Series provides a good opportunity for conflict resolution (temporarily).

50 years for this Mask.

Oregon is the highest 1-loss team at 8th. All you need to do is win in the BCS.

Futbol Update: Liverpool got schooled.

Parting Videos (World Series edition):

A classic ode to the City of Brotherly Love


And this is a modern ode to the City that never sleeps.


Just because I am a friendly guy. Enjoy the rest of the month!