Ramblings

GameStop doesn't care about Tiger Woods shenanigans

2010-03-10T07:01:00.004-05:00

Welcomes down payments for reserved copies of next Tiger Woods video game

On the surface of the video game business I applaud EA Sports for keeping Tiger Woods as their main attraction for their live of golfing video games. After Woods, the most recognized golfer there is, checked in to a rehab center to work on his sex-addiction (at this point I do not feel a need to remind you of the history - you know it by now) many corporate sponsors decided to wash their hands of Woods all together.

But EA Sports is different. Gatorade will still sell because they are Gatorade. And AT&T, as poor as their reputation is for service, still has an exclusive deal with Apple for the iPhone (and iPad) so it is not exactly as though they will be hurting without Woods' name. EA Sports though has a video game to market, and to do that you need a cover athlete that grabs the eye. Why else is so much attention given to the cover athlete for the Madden football series every year (My money is on Drew Brees for Madden '11)

In golf nobody can compete with Tiger.

And according to my e-mail from video game retailer GameStop this morning, they are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the latest golf game from EA Sports, Tiger Woods PGA Tour '11...

Do you have any thoughts on whether or not EA Sports should be promoting Tiger the way they are? What about GameStop, who likely sent this same e-mail to a thousands and thousands of gamers this morning?

Oscar Winner: Logorama

2010-03-08T05:06:00.008-05:00

UPDATE: It seems that the video below has been pulled off of YouTube. Figures. It was only a matter of time after the film won the Academy Award that Autour de Minuit filed a copyright claim.

The Oscars were awarded last night and while The Hurt Locker and Avatar battled back and forth through the night, my main actress Sandra Bullock came away with her first award for best lead actress in The Blind Side, and Up ran away with the best animated feature award, I was looking forward to the best animated short award. I always get a kick out of the animated short category because I consider myself a bit of an animation buff of sorts. Truth is I rarely ever see any of these pieces until the Oscar award season. Last night Logorama took the award for best animated short film.

Logorama takes you on a trip through a world filled with corporate logos, and gives many of them a bit of a foul tongue. I have included the short down below since it was on YouTube. Consider yourself warned though as the language can be strong at times (I usually avoid anything with such language on this site).

For more on Logorama visit the official site of the animated short.

For the complete list of Oscar winners, click here.

New Blog: Second String Thoughts

2010-03-04T15:08:00.003-05:00

If you have not been paying attention to my Twitter feed or Facebook stream than you may be unaware of a new endeavor I have embarked on. This week I started contributing as a community blogger for Montgomery Media. I will be providing my thoughts on local high school sports (with an emphasis on Souderton and Pennridge) as well as the Phillies and Penn State. I will also provide my thoughts on the rest of the Philadelphia sports scene as I see fit.

I hope you will stop by from time to time and feel free to leave me a comment with your thoughts on any topic!

Second String Thoughts

This week I have already provided a pair of game previews for the Phillies' spring schedule, touched on a local high school basketball playoff game and added a photo gallary.

And stay tuned for some more blog related goodness. I have something in the works right now.

My Millennial Score: 91

2010-03-04T07:06:00.003-05:00

What is your score?

For more on the concept of "The Millenial" read the recent research from Pew Research Center Publications. An old-fashioned hat tip to Bag of Nothing for alerting me of this interesting quiz.

ABC News uses Super Mario Brothers to explain Obama's pursuit of health care reform

2010-03-01T12:54:00.008-05:00

Bonus points if you can tell me which game the various sound effects are originally from.

I was watching Good Morning America when this story was aired and immediately tweeted it to my followers, some of whom probably know my affinity for the Italian plumber turned video game mascot. When the story was complete I followed up with a second tweet (gramatically errant it may be), this time mentioning ABC News Senior White House correspondent Jake Tapper. I wanted to let Tapper know that I appreciated that visual aide.

It did not take long for Tapper, an avid Phillies fan, to respond.

Hey Jake - Go Phillies!

Today in Philadelphia Phillies history - Rick Wise for Steve Carlton

2010-02-25T05:15:00.003-05:00

From my Page-a-Day Calendar e-mail...

February 25, 1972
Just to prove a point about owner-ballplayer control in the days before free agency, St. Louis Cardinals owner Gussie Busch refuses to offer left-hander Steve Carlton more than $60,000 per season and trades him to Philadelphia. Carlton wastes no time proving the error of the beer baron’s ways when he gets to his new club. He’ll compile one of baseball’s finest overall seasons in 1972, winning 27 games for a last-place team. Known simply as “Lefty,” he’ll earn four Cy Young Awards, winning 329 games in all, and amass 4,136 strikeouts.

-
Also on this day in 1997 the Phillies signed Danny Tartabull. I would say the Carlton acquisition was a better move.

More snow???

2010-02-24T12:34:00.003-05:00

So the latest forecasts are predicting anywhere between six and twelve inches of snow starting tonight into tomorrow morning. though it is a bit of a cliché, I made the trip to the grocery store to pick up some milk (which we were really out of) and some other necessities. I was a bit surprised with the amount of people there as early as it was.

Do people really feel a need to get out to buy milk, eggs and bread when large amounts of snow are predicted?

I'm charging my camera up now in preparation of the next snowpocalypse.

Great vintage video of Brian Westbrook

2010-02-23T14:05:00.001-05:00

While doing a quick YouTube search for some Brian Westbrook footage for my previous post, I cam across this video that was just posted a few days ago. Great video footage of B-West as an Eagles and as a Villanova Wildcat.

So long Brian Westbrook

2010-02-23T13:48:00.006-05:00

Eagles release Westbrook - Jeff McLane, Philly.com
Westbrook to finish as one of the Eagles' All-Time greats - PhiladelphiaEagles.com
Westbrook's All-Time Eagle Ranks - PhiladelphiaEagles.com
Brian Westbrook will be released - Kulp, The 700 Level
36-West taking a new road - Chris Shafer, Phinally Philly
Philadelphia Eagles release Brian Westbrook - JasonB, Bleeding Green Nation

A day after the San Diego Chargers cut LaDainian Tomlinson, the Philadelphia Eagles cut ties with their own running back, Brian Westbrook.

Westbrook was always one of my favorite Eagles to watch, especially in his younger days. He was the most electrifying Eagles player in the franchise over the last decade, I believe, and that includes personalities like Terrell Owens and DeSean Jackson (although Jackson is quickly taking over the role). Overlooked by many in the NFL the Eagles struck gold with the Villanova product and the rest of the league soon found out what they had passed up on.

My favorite Westbrook memory will undoubtedly be the same as many of yours. The punt return against the New York Giants.

Not sure where Westbrook will go now but I would have to imagine that he'll get a call or two despite his downward production recently and battles with injuries, including concussions.

This is a tough week for Philadelphia's loved sports stars. Now that we are faced with moving on past a fan favorite in green for the second time in the past year (Brian Dawkins) we are also left wondering what the fate of Allen Iverson is. Iverson has taken a leave of absence to be with his family as his daughter is being treated at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for an illness that has yet to be released to the public. While we will say so long and farewell and send best wishes to Westbrook, we all surely will keep the Iverson family in our thoughts as well.

Playing right field and batting sixth, Jesus Christ

2010-02-23T07:02:00.003-05:00

By now you probably know that the biggest Phillies news from yesterday was not Brad Lidge's first pitches from the mound since undergoing surgery, nor was it that the entire team was checked in and ready to go down in Clearwater. Heck it wasn't even the fact that Chan Ho Park signed wiht the Yankees.

This was the hot topic yesterday...

Jayson Werth, who is a debating point already in the final year of his contract, stole the show yesterday when he showed up with his new best friend (his hair). How quick were Phillies fans to jump on the beard's band wagon?

You tell me .

But the important thing to remember is that the entire team is now in spring training and getting ready for the 2010 season. Can you feel the excitement yet? I know I can!

Dr. J meets Doogie Howser

2010-02-22T07:16:00.004-05:00

Faced with the pressure of living up to his co-workers' expectations on the basketball court, Doogie Howser (Neil Patrick Harris), who has no basketball skills, has nowhere to turn but to alter-ego, and Philadelphia 76ers living legend, Julius Erving.

After faking an ankle injury to miss the big game Howser comes around to feeling guilty about letting his teammates and co-workers down. Leave it to Erving to pile on the guilt as the pressure mounts on Doogie to play in the game. When faced with forfeiting the game Doogie finally comes through.

Of course the fate of the game would be decided by the young doctor, right? Fittingly none other than Dr. J offers Doogie with some words of advice with the game on the line.

The video of the ball going in or missing the hoop fades to a scene back at the hospital as Ray (Markus Redmond), who had previously held Doogie and his best friend Vincent Delpino (Max Casella) hostage in a gas station earlier in the series, as he settles a score with a patient he finds to be attractive. But the show wraps up the same way every episode does, with the young prodigy at the computer typing into his digital journal. The good doctor makes one last house call...

Full Episode: Air Doogie

Happy Birthday Julius Errrrrrrving!

2010-02-22T05:47:00.003-05:00

Dr. J was born on this day in 1950.

I may have never watched Dr. J play the game of basketball (I did not become remotely interested in the round ball until well after he retired) but I obviously have a tremendous amount of respect for the Sixers legend.

I was fortunate to hear Erving speak a few years back at Shippensburg University as the highlight of a minority scholarship dinner. My favorite story he told that night was how he first met Bill Cosby. I do not remember the exact story but it was back in his college days at UMass. He went to the locker room to get ready for a game or something and who is sitting there in the hot tub but the Philadelphia comedy legend himself. The biggest compliment that Erving ever received was right there in the hot tub when Cosby said he had heard of him and liked his game. Erving was floored!

Erving also starred in a video game with Larry Bird, before Michael Jordan replaced him in the NES version of the game. Enjoy this Commodore 64 footage, which I believe my childhood friend Jody had at his home, of One-on-One.

Double McTwist 1260

2010-02-18T14:34:00.005-05:00

The slogan for the McFlurry works for the Double McTwist 1260 as well.

If you have been watching the Winter Olympics like I have then you are very familiar with the term "Double McTwist". No, this is not the latest ice cream dessert being served at your local McDonald's restaurant, but I would find it hard to believe that the people in charge of McDonald's advertising department are not trying to get in contact with the biggest name in the winter games in Vancouver, Shaun White.

I know nothing about skiing or snowboarding, especially when you get into the lingo of different moves, but I know when someone is good. And I do not believe I need broadcasters to tell me (especially the NBC crew, who pales in comparison to the Winter X-Games staff). I had watched the Winter X-games a few weeks ago so I already was aware of the much hyped move, the Double McTwist. Even though there was no need for it in last night's snowboard half pipe final (White had clinched a gold with his first of two runs), you absolutely knew that White was going to display his latest trick.

In what amounted to a victory lap for White, the biggest star at the Winter Olympics did not disappoint with his exhibition run, which scored higher than his gold clinching run from the first round by two points. For a great breakdown of the Double McTwist I suggest you head over to The Sporting Blog where Dan Levy (of On the DL Podcast) has a terrific breakdown of each part of the move that is sure to be Googled a lot today.

Be Like Mike, happy birthday Michael Jordan

2010-02-17T05:11:00.004-05:00

Admit it, we all wish we could be like Mike, right?

Today is Michael Jordan's birthday (born in 1963) so I wanted to be sure to remind you of one of the catchiest commercial jingles of all time. Do not be surprised if it gets stuck in your head at some point today. For that I apologize in advance.

I have no problem telling you that Jordan is the greatest basketball player I have ever watched. Forget about Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. For me Jordan is second to none.

Snowpocalypse Wannabe

2010-02-16T16:12:00.004-05:00

Days after we recovered from the second major storm in the span of a week, we were threatened once again by the fluffy white stuff. But this snow fall was pitiful compared to the previous couple of snow storms.

I dub thee Snowpocalypse Wannabe!

One other note,today marks the five year anniversary of the first post on Ramblings. I could have been a little more sentimental about this important date for the site, but I am much too busy to focus on it. I'm struggling to get on a regular blog schedule on this site lately as I am busy with Examiner content. I am seeing a light at the end of the tunnel though so I should be getting back on a schedule that will allow for some pressure free blogging here in the near future.

For fun, read through this (poorly written, probably needs editing) post that christened the site. the topic? The NHL forfeiting their entire season.

Snowpocalypse - Icicles

2010-02-12T11:24:00.003-05:00

Is there a better title for this? Huge icicles is exactly what I have going on in the aftermath of Snowpocalypse 2. At first I just noticed this one icicle hanging in front of the front window. This morning my wife and I decided to give it a name. It is the lone icicle on the front of the building and looks lonely hanging out by himself in the daytime sunlight. It just dangles from the gutter and is held in place by the snow that is still on the roof.

Perhaps he should join his friends in the back.

Later in the morning I took a peak at our heating unit, which has twice had to have repairs to it so ensure we still have heat during these cold winter days. To my surprise I saw that the unit was surrounded by massive icicles, and there are many more in the back as well.

You see that one icicle that trails off at the bottom of the image? Here is the entire icicle...

Google tapping into Winter Olympic Buzz

2010-02-12T05:07:00.005-05:00

The winter Olympic games are just around the corner, and today Google put out one of their more elaborate logo designs to honor the occasion. Not bad looking if you ask me.

It has been a big week for Google. Of course most of the attention has been drawn to the new Google Buzz, which is incorporated into GMail and looks like a stepping stone to getting people on board the Google Wave train (I have 16 invites to Wave remaining if you are interested - leave a comment to request one). I have been using it for a couple days (you can check my profile and follow me) and I look forward to sharing some thoughts on it shortly.

If you are using Google Buzz let me know what you think of it so far. Do you see yourself using it on a regular basis (I do) or have you yet to find a reason for coming back to it?

Snowpocalypse - 12:47pm, Lansdale goes over 7 inches

2010-02-10T12:47:00.004-05:00

Twitpic

LANSDALE, PA - While I was eating lunch we went over seven inches of snowfall in the Lansdale area. As always, my readings are unofficial, but the picture speaks for itself. From what I gather we are only half way through this snow storm as well.

Good day once again to stay inside, watch some movies, catch up on the DVR, eat some soup and play a good video game. Or in my case, get some writing done!

Snowpocalypse 2 - 11:30am, 6.5 in.

2010-02-10T11:36:00.004-05:00

LANSDALE, PA - As of 11:30am my unofficial snow reading shows that we have received 6.5 inches of the powdery white stuff so far. A lot more is still expected.

Continue to let me know how much snow you have so far!

Tweetdeck 0.33 on Mac running properly

2010-02-10T09:26:00.005-05:00

Tweetdeck 0.33 is finally working for me, and I will share with you the steps you need to do in order to get it to work on your Mac if you were experiencing the same problem I had.

Tweetdeck support staffer Richard gave me some helpful tips to get it working on my system, which I thought was up to date. Turns out I needed a beta release of Adobe AIR to be installed to get things working for me. Before that I needed to delete a couple folders from my system, perhaps more as a precaution. Deleting these files may or may not be needed if you have the beta release of Adobe AIR already installed.

Here is what I was instructed to do, in screenshot form. I'll provide the links down below.

I followed these steps and now Tweetdeck 0.33 seems to be working just fine. I'll give it a day or two before I provide my general thoughts on the latest version. In the meantime allow this post to serve as a testament to the help that the Tweetdeck staff can provide if you are in need of help.

Download Tweetdeck

Snowpocalypse - 7am, almost five inches

2010-02-10T07:13:00.004-05:00

LANSDALE, PA - I'll take a page from my Penn State blogging buddy Will with some snow updates today. The second snow storm in the past week is upon us! I'll be trying to update the progress of the storm throughout the day.

As of 7:00am I am unofficially announcing that Lansdale, PA has received just under five inches of snow so far.

How much snow have you received? Send me your snow reports in a comment form or send along a photo of your snow measurements so we can share them!

New Facebook layout has arrived

2010-02-09T16:44:00.005-05:00

I just got the face lift on my account yesterday afternoon and at first I liked it, but I was curious where my groups had disappeared too. No worries. I just had to click on "Friends" in the left side bar. I use groups to sort my Facebook friends into different categories. I have groups set up specifically for my college friends and my high school friends, another one for fraternity brothers, and another one for fellow Examiner writers. I can not use Facebook without the groups feature. It is like using Tweetdeck's columns.

I know many of you will have nothing better to do than ask everyone "Why is Facebook changing their look again?" and shouting out "I hate the new look, change it back!" etc. etc. etc. It's changed. Get over it.
If you have not received the new Facebook layout yet, go ahead and study this handy-dandy cheat sheet now so you are familiar with the new look.

What are your thoughts on the new Facebook layout? Let me know either via comment here or on my Facebook page.

Tweetdeck 0.33 released, Not playing well with Mac

2010-02-09T16:15:00.008-05:00

I can't tell you much about it.

My favorite Twitter client software, Tweetdeck, saw what looks like a fantastic update released this week with version 0.33. The latest version adds better column and account management and adds better preview functionality to support Flickr and YouTube. Perhaps the best improvement is the limit on API calls from 150 (which, for me, ran dry pretty quickly during football or baseball games) to a whopping 350 calls per hour. That is a thing of beauty.

Needless to say I was anxious to dip my toes in the new waters, but for some reason or another the new Tweetdeck and my up to date MacBook Pro do not want to play nicely. How could this be? I thought things were easier with a Mac? This is the error message I receive...

After submitting a support ticket to the Tweetdeck folks and posting a message on their support forum in response to a similar problem, I took some measures that have worked for me in the past. I removed Tweetdeck entirely from my system as well as Adobe Air, restarted the computer and tried installing again. This time it did not work for me.

If anyone out there is experiencing a similar problem or has been able to get 0.33 to work please leave a message below in the comments section. As soon as I get this problem resolved I will update this post so that it may help others in a similar situation.

My support ticket
Tweetdeck - 0.33 features

UPDATE: 2.10.2010 (9:48 AM) - After receiving a response from Tweetdeck support (view the comments below) I was able to get the latest version up and running. For help on how to resolve the problem, read these tips.

New Super Mario Brothers Ending

2010-02-08T16:20:00.003-05:00

Consider this a spoiler alert.

In conjunction with my list of games I have beaten in 2010 I want to archive the various endings to the games to go along with it.

Below is video of the final stage in the Nintendo DS game, New Super Mario Brothers using Luigi as the main character. To unlock Luigi you must first beat the game as Mario. You are then given a clue to hit the "L" and "R" buttons when selecting a game file at the main menu. Instead of Mario you will hear Luigi's voice and will play as Mario's taller, more slender, brother.

This player takes the cheap way out by running underneath Bowser as he jumps and hits the switch that removes the bridge from beneath the King of the Koopas. I will say though that I took the liberty of going the extra mile and knocking Bowser out with fireballs. I have no video t prove this so you will have to take my word for it.

That should do it for this week's edition of Mario Monday. Next week will mark the long-awaited return of regular Mario Monday content, with a look at Super Mario 64.

Beaten in 2010

2010-02-08T16:02:00.006-05:00

You may know that I am a bit of a Nintendo geek. I have a long history of playing Nintendo games and still today I find myself playing games by one of the most influential companies in the video game industry.

So I decided to keep track of the games that I have beaten in 2010. It may just be to keep track of my own progress, and perhaps nobody will truly care about it, but it's my blog so I make the rules.

We'll start with New Super Mario Brothers for the Nintendo DS, which I completed over the weekend.

New Super Mario Brothers (Nintendo DS) - February 7, 2010

Also, let's take a look at a couple games that should be added to the list in the future.

On the To-Do List

New Super Mario Brothers Wii (Nintendo Wii)
Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (Nintendo DS)
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed (Nintendo Wii)

My favorite Super Bowl Commercial

2010-02-08T07:05:00.004-05:00

Coca-Cola has a good reputation with their commercials during the Super Bowl in my book. Perhaps I am a bit biased though as I prefer Coke over Pepsi every day of the week, but yesterday's Super Bowl advertisement was one of my favorites of the day.

Witty, satirical, smart, and cute. That is pretty much Coca-Cola's theme in all of their commercials, but when you add in The Simpsons, you have a winner.

I will have a more detailed post on the Super Bowl ads, along with my top five, either later today or tomorrow. In the meantime, let me know what your favorite commercial was.

Super Bowl prediction

2010-02-06T22:35:00.002-05:00

Colts 34
Saints 27

That's my official prediction. What is your guess?

On a related topic, I'm in my dad's office box pool for the game. I must say I have a couple of good squares for the game. Let' hope it works out!

Snowmageddon - Souderton/Lansdale Edition

2010-02-06T11:35:00.003-05:00

This is by no means an official reading, but we have over a foot of snow right outside the front door, and it is still coming down. This is a good day to stay inside, catch up on some DVR, watch a good movie or two, make some home made soup, drink some hot chocolate and play some video games.

How much snow have you received so far?

Tecmo Super Bowl computer simulation

2010-02-05T13:53:00.003-05:00

Every week the folks at ESPN and some other media outlets choose to simulate the weekend's big game using the latest version of the popular Madden Football series. Well that's fine and dandy, but for something more unique you really must witness this computer simulation using the classic football game, Tecmo Super Bowl.

This version is full with updated rosters so guys like Peyton Manning and Drew Brees, neither of which was in college when the game was originally released, are ready to go. Who wins?

For more on this simulation read Alex Quigley's post on Chicago Now.

How the Google Nexus One was created

2010-02-05T07:02:00.003-05:00

I said it before, and I'll say it again. The Nexus One will be my next phone. Take a look at the process that took place to create it, straight form the mouth of those who helped put it together...

Most played songs in iTunes for January

2010-02-01T16:20:00.004-05:00

Surprisingly some leftover Christmas music made its way into my most played list for the month of January. But other than that it seems obvious that I was on a bit of a jazz kick in January. I still have yet to rate a bunch of it though, as you can see from the above screen shot of my customized iTunes playlist.

What are some of the songs you listened to the most last month? Let me know what you've been listening too and give me some suggestions for February!

Toyota recall have you thinking of alternatives?

2010-02-01T14:10:00.002-05:00

I am thankful that I drive a Suzuki right now instead of a Toyota, because Toyota is in the crazy situation right now. Hopefully if you drive a Toyota you are not a part of the recent recall that has essentially frozen the company lately. Make sure to find out if your Toyota is part of the massive recall that stems from serious concerns about sticking gas pedals.

Luckily my wife's Corolla is free from the recall (for now). But here is an alternative for you looking for the safest and most economical mode of transportation.

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

'Catcher in the Rye' author, J.D. Salinger dies

2010-01-28T16:03:00.005-05:00

Growing up I did not read as much as I should have. Sure my father may have forced me to read a book here and there, such as The Hobbit, but I hated every minute of it. Why did I abhor reading so much? As I got older I realized that I do not hate to read, I just had no interest in what I was being forced to read.

I found it unbearably difficult to keep track of the story lines that I was reading and forced myself to move forward. In the pressure to get to the next page I always seemed to forget what had just happened on the previous couple of pages, rendering any surprises meaningless to me. But sit me down with a biography or some other non-fiction piece of literature and now we're in business.

My problem is not that I don't appreciate good writing. How else can I explain my somewhat snobby attitude towards movies and TV shows that seem "beneath me"? I enjoy a plot that is well developed and not just slopped together in order to star Will Ferrell so it will be deemed "the funniest movie ever" by those younger than me who fail to recognize the importance of a good script.

Unfortunately for me my animosity toward fiction has left me out of the loop of so many well-respected authors. Today one of the best in the literary world, J.D. Salinger, passed away at the age of 91. Salinger is best known for his classic novel, The Catcher in the Rye, a book I am sure was required reading material at one point in my high school years that I trudged and stumbled through. Shame on me.

Feel free to share your thoughts on one of the greatest authors to put a pen to a paper below.

Project 365 - 1.28.2010 - Living in a Super Mario World

2010-01-28T15:47:00.005-05:00

Just another day in my own little personal Super Mario World

I was experimenting with a new background image for the MacBook Pro and came across this nice little Super Mario Brothers wallpaper. I threw in a couple accessories, one old and one new. The Luigi figure was an old McDonald's Happy Meal toy back when Super Mario Brothers 3 was released. The blue mushroom was a stocking stuffer this past Christmas and is filled with blueberry flavored sour candy. Quite delicious!

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next:
Previous: 1.27.2010 Ribs for Lunch

Boost Mobile hyping the SANYO Incognito

2010-01-27T23:37:00.009-05:00

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Boost Mobile. All opinions are 100% mine.

I may have my eyes set on the Nexus One from Google, but what if you are looking for an alternative that comes with a pre-paid plane? The folks of Boost Mobile recently contacted me to help spread the word about their latest addition to their popular line-up. The SANYO Incognito (model number SCP-6760) is a device that Sprint hopes will carry the company through 2010.

Not having tried my hands on this phone personally I can only base my opinion off of what I have come across online. Here are some of the basic facts about the phone that I find to be important on any decision making process. Of course, be sure to consult your nearest retailer and ask them any questions before following through with any purchase.

$129.99 (before taxes) for the phone. If you order online you will receive free shipping.
Unlimited plan for $50/month with no contract required.

So to use this phone you would be looking at a price of about $190 for the first month, including the purchase of the phone. So is the phone worth the cost?

CNET and PC Magazine both liken the SANYO Incognito to the Pantech Impact available on AT&T's network., but when push comes to shove both reviews lean slightly to the Impact. The Incognito was rated Good (3 out of 5) by PC Magazine and Very Good (3.5 out of 5) by CNET last month so there does seem to be some promise here.

Some of the criticism on the phone is directed at the design. From what I can tell it looks to be slightly clunky, but I will admit that I have never used a phone with a pull out keyboard the way the Incognito uses. Perhaps it is just a matter of adjusting, as millions of texting teenagers and celebrities have already done. I still use a pretty standard flip phone.

The Incognito comes with a 2MP camera, which by today's standards seems weak. My wife's new HTC Eris has a 5 MP camera and my almost three year old phone has a 2MP resolution, so I would expect more from a phone being released today when it comes to the digital camera. But in addition to the camera the Incognito also has video recording capabilities (again at 2MP resolution though), music and video playback functionality, and has the ability to browse the web. Naturally it also sends and receives text messages and can make phone calls if you so wish. Syncing the Incognito up to your favorite social networking sites like Facebook or Twitter are no problem either. Just use the EVDO capabilities and the full QWERTY keyboard to get started quickly.

Here is a closer look at the SANYO Incognito from CNET...

So what do you think? Is the SANYO Incognito a good fit for you or a friend or family member? Feel free to discuss your experience with the phone in the comments below. Not being a true cell phone geek I will not likely be able to answer any questions you may have about this particular device, but I am confident that the customer service staff at Boost Mobile would love to help you out. Contact them through their customer support contact form, or check out their frequently asked questions.

If you have used this phone please let my readers (and me!) know what you think! To close, here is a slide show of photos of the SANYO Incognito.

Photos courtesy of Boost Mobile

Project 365 - 1.27.2010 - Ribs for lunch

2010-01-27T14:31:00.004-05:00

See that steam coming off my lunch?

For lunch today I had a delicious braised rib in a red wine sauce. I received it as a free sample to test through one of the survey sites I belong too. Look for a review in the coming days about my mouth watering lunch.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.28.2010 - Living in a Super Mario World
Previous: 1.26.2010 - Save the Date

Project 365 - 1.26.2010 - Save the date

2010-01-26T14:09:00.006-05:00

Today our Save-the-Date for my sister's wedding came in the mail. Who would have thought that it would be in blue and white? And yes, it is a magnet to put on either our refrigerator or my magnetic dry erase board in the home office.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.27.2010 - Ribs for lunch
Previous: 1.25.2010 - Rainy Monday

UPDATE: So apparently my friend down in Baltimore received a Save the Date with cookies! My sister has clearly come up short in this department...

Tech Giveaway from Tony's Pizza

2010-01-26T12:36:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Tony's Pizza. All opinions are 100% mine.

I was recently given an opportunity to take a trip down memory lane. The folks at Tony's Pizza came to me and asked if I would be interesting in some free pizza?

Stop right there. Free pizza? Yes please!

I responded to them that I would be a fool to pass on a chance to fill my tummy with free pizza, so they sent me some coupons that I could use at the grocery store to purchase some crispy pizza. Last night my wife and I split one, not expecting much form a pizza you can buy for less than $2.00. Boy were we surprised!

I picked up the pepperoni topping variety, but you can also get plain cheese if you care to. For full disclosure, we added a little bit of extra mozzarella cheese to the pizza before placing it in the oven. After opening the package it looked a little skimpy in the cheese department, but I did not have to add too much to it. While my wife did not add any extra toppings, I sprinkled on a dash of red pepper as well.

Just look at that picture to see what I was able to enjoy! Mouth watering, isn't it?

Before sinking my teeth in to this FREE pizza, I was expecting to eat something that tasted like cardboard, reminiscent of what I had eaten in elementary school or in college. Not the case. The pizza we had was very enjoyable and left me sort of wishing I had not shared this with my wife! Does that make me a bad husband? This all could have been avoided if I had just picked up more than one pizza on my latest grocery trip excursion!

In exchange for sampling some free pizza the Tony's Pizza people asked if I would share a coupon with a lucky reader, so here is where I follow up on my side of the deal. I am going to offer one coupon for a free pizza to the person who leaves a comment about the best pizza they have ever had. Where did you have it? What was the topping of choice? I will select one commenter at random to receive a free pizza coupon, which I will arrange to mail at a time to be determined.

In addition, Tony's Pizza is having a great contest to fulfill your tech needs, and readers of THIS SITE are eligible for a prize worth $500! I am excited to join some great sites in this contest and hope that the winner comes from my site. Here are two ways to enter!

Leave a comment below. To be eligible you will need to use your e-mail address (will not be viewable to anyone reading the site but me)
Use Twitter to tweet a message to your followers, containing a link to this post and use the hash-tag "#TonysPizza" - You could also just retweet my announcement about the contest.

I will be responsible for selecting one commenter at random, and I am excluding family members from being eligible. This contest ends February 16, 2010 at 11:59pm so do not delay! For detailed rules on this contest click here (I will soon be added to the blog roll in the rules).

Good luck!

Project 365 - 1.25.2010 - Rainy Monday

2010-01-25T14:11:00.007-05:00

A look outside the home office this dreary Monday morning gives you a glimpse as to how this day will go. I was especially fond of the way the car light (that red streak that resembles the old FOX tracking of a hockey puck) came out while the photos was being taken.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: Project 365 1.26.2010 - Save the date
Previous: Project 365 1.24.2010 - Toilet repair

I am 69% addicted to Twitter

2010-01-24T21:49:00.000-05:00

Created by Oatmeal

Project 365 - 1.24.2010

2010-01-24T12:09:00.003-05:00

Did a household repair today. Replaced a broken toilet seat!

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: Project 365 1.25.2010 - Rainy Monday
Previous: Project 365 1.23.2010 - Toilet Paper Poll

Project 365 - 1.23.2010

2010-01-23T11:13:00.002-05:00

Which way do you set up your toilet paper?

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.24.2010
Previous: 1.22.2010

The Rock before he was emasculated

2010-01-22T10:00:00.001-05:00

I'm sorry but I am not buying "The Rock" as the "Tooth Fairy." Perhaps if they had stuck to the Disney idea to rename him the Molenator, but that is not the case.

Today in movie theaters across America Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson will star in his latest Disney film, Tooth Fairy. While I am positive that his financial earnings with his Disney film, much like Race to Witch Mountain, will be more than welcomed, one must wonder if he feels like he sold his soul?

His loud-mouth, butt-kicking, arrogant soul that is.

I remember a time when "The Rock" was the reason I snuck in some wrestling on television when it was socially unacceptable within my family (truth is it probably sill is - but I do not regret hiding this form them). I remember watching The Rock electrify the crowd in arenas, and the dorm rooms at Shippensburg on Monday and Thursday nights (Smackdown used to be on Thursday nights).

I know I do not strike you as a wrestling fan, and that is because I am not. But I do find myself drawn in by good entertainment, and when the Rock was with a microphone in the WWF/WWE arena, there were few as captivating as him. So it amazes me that today The Rock is now a Disney star making movies geared for kids.

Hey, more power to him. I do hope he will make some movies again with a little more juice to them, like Walking Tall or The Rundown. Check them out. the try to picture the guy with fairy wings and tights.

In honor of the release of Tooth Fairy I decided to take a dip through the archives and share some classic Rock moments, so we can remember just how cool he used to be*.

Here is the Rock rocking State College, PA

* If Dwayne Johnson really is reading this then he should know that I still totally think he is cool and would love to hang out with him just once. He could even call me a candy-ass and pour me a nice tall glass of shut-up juice etc. etc. etc. Because I still smell what the Rock...is cooking.

Project 365 - 1.22.2010

2010-01-22T09:00:00.002-05:00

The last drip of milk form the morning breakfast.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.23.2010
Previous: 1.21.2010

Flyers rough up Rangers in 2-0 win

2010-01-22T06:00:00.003-05:00

Ring the bell: Flyers slug their way past Rangers - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Flyers show some fight in shut-out of Rangers - AP report via Philly.com
Two hot teams on ice, Rangers riled up by Carcillo - Rich Hoffman, Philly.com
What happened? New York Rangers lacking punch, fall to Philadelphia Flyers 2-0 - Michael Obernauer, New York Daily News
Flyers Notes: Mixed ideas on Carcillo fight - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Thursday's three stars [Emery is third] - Sean Leahy, Puck Daddy, Yahoo! Sports
An old fashioned beat down at the Wach - Matt P, The 700 Level
Flyers win 2-0, Rangers delusional in defeat - Travis Hughes, Broad Street Hockey

Any time that a Philadelphia team beats a New York team, it is a good day. This was the case last night down on Broad Street as the Flyers shut out the Rangers 2-0. To make it even better, the Flyers beat them up in the process.

I love a good tight hockey game enough as it is but when you get some good fights then you are in for a treat. Dan Carcillo drew the ire of Rangers coach John Tortorella by fighting Marian Gaborik, who has one career fighting major to his name. Later Scott Hartnell and Sean Avery got into it.

Tempers were flaring during and after the game. Tortorella had some stern words directed toward the Flyers bench during the game and again in his post game press conference, but the bottom line is the Flyers won 2-0 and this rivalry is as heated as it has ever been.

Or so you would think. The Flyers have outscored the Rangers 8-0 in their last two meetings. The Flyers are still out of a playoff spot right now (one point behind eighth seed New York Islanders) but they have games in hand and are only two points behind the sixth seeded Rangers.

AP photo

Jersey Shore: Super Mario Brothers Edition

2010-01-21T18:33:00.001-05:00

Perhaps this show should be called Koopa Beach?

Project 365 - 1.21.2010

2010-01-21T13:00:00.002-05:00

Don't trip down the stairs!

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.22.2010
Previous: 1.20.2010

Help Haiti Blog Challenge: Help me help Haiti

2010-01-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

The people of Haiti need our help

One of the great things about the blogosphere is that there is a tight knit community of bloggers who search for ways to utilize their blog for good. With the recent tragedy in Haiti many bloggers are finding ways to help in any way they can.

Jenny from Working on a Ramp brought one such initiative to my attention recently. Kelly Diels of Cleavage has organized the Help Haiti Blog Challenge, in which bloggers across the globe donate money in exchange for a sale of a product or service.

While I may not have any physical product or e-book to sell like some bloggers I know, I will take a page from Jenny's book and offer my writing for any website, business, or organization. Whatever you want to offer to pay me will see 50% will go towards the American Red Cross. I am open to any writing opportunity you may have so please do not hesitate to get in touch with me to coordinate a plan. Leave a comment below, which will be forwarded to my e-mail inbox automatically if interested.

With your help I can help victims in Haiti in a unique way. I do not have much I can donate out of my own pockets and feel this is a tremendous way to get involved. Even if you do not contact me please take the time to browse the 80+ bloggers on Cleavage to see what they have to offer.

Sam Dalembert has long day as Sixers lose

2010-01-21T05:46:00.002-05:00

Dalembert sees real loss, then another Sixers loss, to Trail Blazers - Bob Cooney, Philly.com
Haunting past: Miller burns Sixers in Blazers' win - Dei Lynam, CSNPhilly.com
Andre Miller leads Blazers p ast Sixers - jsams, Liberty Ballers
Two things I can't question: Sam Dalembert's heart and hustle - Matt P, The 700 Level

Sam Dalembert, a native of Haiti, made the long trip down to his home country the other day. Yesterday he flew back to Philadelphia and arrived in town around 6:00. About an hour later he was playing basketball for the Sixers, taking the opening tip.

Sure, the Sixers lost yet again, but you have to appreciate what Dalembert is doing, especially after a second earthquake rocked Haiti yesterday. Dalemebert, I will not say a negative word about you for the rest of he season.

How the Chinese report Conan vs. Leno

2010-01-20T12:31:00.003-05:00

If you are like me you love this new trend of Chinese news reports using CGI technology to explain their story in detail. Our eyes were opened with the Tiger Woods story being told through the use of CGI, and now the recent late night talk show battles are being illustrated for the Chinese viewers.

HT: BagofNothing

Project 365 - 1.20.2010

2010-01-20T10:10:00.001-05:00

Noticed some dust above the light on above the stairs.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.21.2010
Previous: 1.19.2010

Jeff Carter leads the way for Flyers in win

2010-01-20T06:07:00.004-05:00

Does Carcillo have a face only a mother could love or what? Getty Images

Carter's quick shothelps lift Flyers over Blue Jackets - Frank Seravalli, Philly.com
Face forward: Carter, Flyers knock off Blue Jackets - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Pronger contains Nash in Flyers' victory - Bill Clement, CSNPhilly.com
With win, Flyers bail out petulant captain - Bob Ford, Philly.com
Former coach Hitchcock supports Flyers captain Richards - Sam Donnellon, Philly.com
Richards learning his lessons the hard way - John R. Finger, CSNPhilly.com
Flyers outlast Umberger-led Blue Jackets, 5-3 - Travis Hughes, Broad Street Hockey
Jeff Carter... SCORES! Right off the face off - Enrico, The 700 Level

Certainly nice to see Jeff Carter with the scoring touch. Hopefuly that continues for the rest of the season.

With Ken Hitchcock back in town I had a feeling there would be some entertainment down at the Wachovia Center last night. Hitchcock is never afraid to answer questions to the media and is known to speak honestly about a number of topics. I found it interesting to learn that the former Flyers head coach voiced his support for Flyers captain Mike Richards, who has recently reignited his battle with the local media.

I have made clear my opinion on Richards. I do not think he is mentally ready to be the captain of a hockey team. Maybe pressure is getting to him, maybe he is just too young. The fact that Sidney Crosby has already lead his team to two consecutive Stanley Cup Finals appearances and won one makes it a little more frustrating to watch Richards go through what he is going through right now.

Project 365 - 1.19.2010

2010-01-19T11:00:00.001-05:00

Where is the smoke detector???

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.20.2010
Previous: 1.18.2010

There is no justification for Sixers keeping Eddie Jordan

2010-01-19T07:10:00.008-05:00

Sixers blow big lead vs. Wolves - Kate Fagan, Philly.com
Off a Cliff: Sixers blow lead, fall to Timberwolves - John Krawczynski (AP), via CSNPhilly.com
THE Loss - Kate Fagan, Philly.com
The Battle of Who Could Care Less - TheArtistFormerlyKnownAsMichaelBourne, Liberty Ballers
Sixers ruin Evans' and Thompson'shomecoming - Dannie, Recliner GM

I did not watch the matinee Martin Luther King Day game between the Sixers and Timberwolves, and am I glad I missed it. The Sixers blew a 20 point lead and lost to the lowly Wolves yesterday, leaving me to think that it is past time to make a change at head coach with this basketball team.

What has Eddie Jordan accomplished since being given the head coaching job by his buddy Ed Stefanski? He coached his team to the wrong end of a season sweep by the Clippers, has lost to the Knicks, Wizards and now the Wolves.

The woes of this team can not even be attributed to the addition of Allen Iverson, who has a track record of bringing teams down in his more recent seasons. Somebody in charge of the Sixers needs to step in and address the situation. The team is just flat out bad, and yet I feel as though there is more than enough talent to avoid the current 13-27 record they own today.

Paging Ed Snider. You have once again shown that you have no real interest in the Sixers, unlike your Flyers. We all know that Snider does not show an interest in the Sixers, much like the general Philadelphia fan base. But when your hockey team fires a coach with a winning record, how can you justify holding on to a basketball coach who has a team 14 games under .500? It just does not make sense to me.

As long as Jordan is at the helm, the Sixers seem to be going nowhere fast.

The argument is that the Sixers should tank the rest of the schedule in order to pick up more ping pong balls in the NBA Lottery. What do you think the Sixers should do?

AP photo

Jerry Jones' latest bragging right

2010-01-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

What better way to decorate that brand new stadium? Check out BagofNothing.com for the original post with this image. The guy who runs the sire, a.k.a. Geeding, is a respectful Dallas Cowboys fan. You can poke fun at his Cowboys if you wish, but try not to be too mean-spirited to him. He's a decent guy.

Project 365 - 1.18.2010

2010-01-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

Time to take out the trash?

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.19.2010
Previous: 1.17.2010

Flyers lose to Capitals in D.C.

2010-01-18T05:56:00.003-05:00

False start: Flyers fall to Caps in Emery's return - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
After first period, Flyers just a snack for Capitals - Frank Seravalli, Philly.com

I'm sure by D.C. blogging friend Will is happy about this one today. I did not watch the game so feel free to fill me in down below. I was watching football and doing grocery shopping instead. I am interested in the Mike Richards news that followed the game though.

Flyers' Richards critiques the media - Frank Seravalli, Philly.com
Air it out: Flyers' Richards still angry with the media - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Media takes another shot at Richards - Geoff Detweiller, Broad Street Hockey

It is not exactly something new to have a captain, or player, that does not get along with the media, but judging purely on what I have read, it doesn't seem right for Richards to be the captain of this Flyers team at this point in time. He seems to lack the maturity, and leadership, needed to take charge of this team. And honestly, relating with the media should be a priority when wearing the "C".

AP photo

Project 365 - 1.17.2010

2010-01-17T10:00:00.001-05:00

Typing fool.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.18.2010
Previous: 1.16.2010

Project 365 - 1.16.2010

2010-01-16T10:00:00.001-05:00

A look out the window in the chilly January morning.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.17.2010
Previous: 1.4.2010 - 1.15.2010

My 1,000th entry, don't I get some prize or something?

2010-01-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

Hard to believe that this all started out as just a small way to talk about sports. Back on February 16, 2005 I posted my first entry on Ramblings about the death of the NHL season. It was the same day that the Phillies, who were a young up and coming team at the time, opened spring training.

As a sports fan I had been looking for new ways to talk about what was on my mind. Sure, I could have gone to the message boards and other sites but I wanted my own space. I like to believe I caught on to the whole "blog" idea before it became as popular as it is today. I did, but I do not consider myself ahead of my time.

All I wanted to do was post my thoughts online and share them with others freely.

Over the years the site has grown immensely, more than I ever envisioned for sure. Back then I just used a simple template that was one of the basic default layouts provided by the Blogger service. I am embarrassed to tell you how long it took me to realize I could change the links on the side bars and I could add my own pictures. As time went on I dug a little deeper and messed with the layout some more and realized that I could add a third-party layout to the site, which you can see today.

This site has helped me in a number of ways. I have used it as an outlet for sharing my photos, videos in addition to my thoughts on a variety of topics. It has also helped me understand the blogging environment and given me an insight into the new media age. I feel as though I am more informed on the new media than most others are because of this site.

This site has given me the ability to branch out to other sites and ultimately has helped me land my gig with Examiner covering Penn State and college football. This site has influenced me in a number of ways, including helping me to meet new people online.

If not for this site I may have been even farther behind on embracing MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter. This site has helped keep me in the loop on a number of social networking events and news and events. This site, as silly as it sounds, has truly become a part of me and although it brings in no true monetary value, I can not speak enough about how the return on it has actually been for me.

This blog has enabled me to better share a number of experiences with you in some way or form.

The NHL lock-out. The start of the steroids issue in baseball. My 2005 World Series prediction of Yankees over Phillies (four years early). My first genuine Phillies blog entry (Tim Worrell, remember him?). The Terrell Owens food drive. The 2005 game between Penn State and Ohio State. My initial thoughts on the naming of the Nintendo Wii. The day I called the Phillies ownership clueless when he suggested they could be competitive in 2007 (they won the NL East division). My 100th post. The day the Phillies won the 2008 NL East title. The day they won the World Series.

If you think I am sounding a little geeky and possibly a little bit like a loser, I believe that is because you do not fully understand the power of new media and social networking. This blog, over the years, has served as my home base for my online presence. It is the driving force behind some of my successes. It has helped me find my voice in a way.

It is true that my rise from 100 posts to 1,000 posts took a lot less time to achieve than the first 100 posts, but that is only because I have embraced the technology more and more and see it as a vital tool in this day and age. I believe my blogging philosophy has grown over time and matured for the most part. The great thing about technology is that everything is always changing. If you do not adapt to changes then you will be left behind. While this blog serves more as a personal outlet than anything else I have not been under so much pressure, but I do like to look good regardless.

I thank you for continuing to stop by and read what I have to say, or watching my videos, or gazing upon my photos. I thank you for your help, your encouragement, and support. Blogging gets a bad name in this day and age but I can see that changing a bit every week. I hope you will continue to stop by as this site marches toward post #2,000 and beyond.

- Kevin

Project 365 - The big catching up dump

2010-01-15T20:00:00.003-05:00

I admit that when I set out to execute my Project 365 for this year I had every intention of posting each picture to the blog as its own entry, and I still plan on fulfilling that idea. However it is clear that I fell well behind on performing that daily task. While I have been taking a separate photo each day I have not uploaded it to the site, let alone transferred it to the computer.

So here now is my (hopefully) only time I will dump a bunch of photos in to one post as we play a quick game of catch-up in the Project 365. This will bring us up to today.

Day 4 of 465
Though I do not use many pens during the day other than to jot down a couple notes,
I seem to have an abundant supply of the writing tools.

Day 5 of 365
The remote control. Say what you want about a dog, but this is truly a man's best friend.

Day 6 of 365
Bringing new meaning to the term "alternate endings" in movies.
How epic would this scene have been?

Day 7 of 365
Hard at work? Or hardly working? Ha!

Day 8 of 365
The founding members of my own "Desk of Fame".

Day 9 of 365
Pirates and Imperial soldiers have a common nemesis in the legendary monster monkey! RUN!

Day 10 of 365
These are a few of my favorite things.

Day 11 of 365
All plugged in.

Day 12 of 365
A reminder from my lovely wife.

Day 13 of 365
Look carefully to see the photographer's reflection!

Day 14 of 365
The upstairs ceiling fan at rest.

Day 15 of 365
For breakfast, a pair of raspberry crumpets with a touch of butter and raspberry jam. Delicious!

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.16.2010
Previous: 1.3.2010

14 cool things to do on Twitter

2010-01-15T13:00:00.001-05:00

It is no secret that I am a big fan of Twitter. I use it for a number of purposes but realize that everybody finds different ways to best use Twitter to fulfill their needs. That is the beauty of a social networking platform that is so simple in concept.

Penn Olson, a site dedicated to social media and designed to introduce internet users to the different mediums available, has 14 ways people are using Twitter, but here is my favorite one.

14. Curb drunk driving
If nothing so far managed to stop those drivers from drunk driving, maybe shame could finally do the trick. The names of those charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) between Christmas and New Year’s Eve would be published on Twitter. Don’t think your neighbors don’t know what you did last night!

What ways are you using Twitter?

Soccer in Philadelphia? Meh

2010-01-15T08:00:00.003-05:00

Danny Mwanga, better known as the guy nobody will recognize in Philadelphia. Getty Images

Philadelphia Union select Mwanga, Okugo, McInerney, Stahl, Nakazawa and Perk in MLS SuperDraft - Philadelphia Union
Union busy at top of MLS draft - Philly.com
Union swings a big trade - Jonathan Tannenwald, Philly.com

Look, I have said it numerous times before but with professional soccer making some headlines in the Philadelphia region yesterday I feel I must share my opinion again.

I am not a soccer fan. While I respect the sport and its place on a global scale, I know nothing about the actual rules of the game, find no enjoyment in watching it, and have no real desire to learn anything more about it. The last time I played soccer was in Pee Wee soccer (I distinctly remember scoring a goal, perhaps my only one, with my eyes closed tightly). With any luck that will still remain my final soccer memory.

In general, I have no interest in the sport of soccer, which means this could very likely be my first and last post on the Philadelphia Union, the expansion team in the MLS.

I do not hope the Union fail. I wish them all the success they can achieve, but I will say now and I will stand firm in saying this; the Union are doomed in Philadelphia.

They will have their small support group, their core group of fans represented by the Sons of Ben, and they will have a smattering of fans here and there. Youth soccer teams will take in a game from time to time, but if anybody is foolish enough to think that the Union will elevate soccer to prominence in Philadelphia, you are sadly mistaken.

I know what soccer fans are thinking though. "Soccer is the world's fastest growing sport!" "Just give it a chance!" "It's the world's sport, so you are being ignorant!" Yeah, yeah, we've heard that all before. Sixteen years ago we were told soccer would take the country by storm when the World Cup came to the United States. Did it grow in popularity? Of course. But did it take the country by storm? No.

When the MLS started up we were told again that this would finally bring soccer to true relevance in the United States. What has happened? Two teams were contracted due to poor attendance. This should not have been a surprise as the league goes through attendance declines more often than not.

Soccer fans, I do not wish to ridicule you for enjoying your favorite sport. Just do not expect me to hop on board in support of it. That is what irritates me the most. Just because the rest of the world likes it does not mean I have to enjoy it. I also will not say that I will avoid the Union at all costs. I have told my soccer loving friend Mike that I would take in a game once, just to see what it is all about, which goes back on what I had previously told my wife about not wanting to ever go. I don't think I will enjoy it but I will make every attempt to go into the game with an open mind. This I can promise you.

Besides, I'll be busy watching the Flyers in the playoffs, March Madness, or the Phillies while soccer is being played. I would rather watch dolphins play soccer anyway.

In closing I ask you, the reader, to give me your reasons for why I should learn to enjoy soccer. I beg of you to educate me!

Flyers offense forgets passport, shut-out by Toronto

2010-01-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

Flyers go cold in Toronto - Sam Carchidi, Philly.com
Short circuit: Flyers fall to Leafs to snap win streak - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Flyers notes: No Fight Night II against Leafs - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Leafs goon it up late, beat Flyers 4-0 - Travis Hughes, Broad Street Hockey

The hot Flyers offense must have had their good sticks fail to pass through customs because for the first time in 17 games the orange and black were shut-out. The four game winning streak also comes to an abrupt end as the Maple Leafs found a way to get back at the Flyers a little bit.

There was some rough stuff the other night when these teams last played, and before this game Toronto called up a tough guy. But the rough stuff was held off until late in the game when Toronto got a cheap hot on Mike Richards.

Remind me again which team has a reputation for being full of nothing but bullies and goons?

That's what I thought.

AP photo

Why I love Chase Utley

2010-01-14T18:00:00.000-05:00

I have a feeling the "Chase Utley you are the man!" expression has become my generation's Wilt Chamberlain scoring 100 points game.

When Wilt scored his 100 points in Hershey Arena in 1962 it was attended by 4,124 fans but there are probably hundreds of thousands of fans who remember being there. I may not be able to tell you exactly where I was when Utley hustled to the point where Harry Kalas was going nuts with enthusiasm for the second baseman, but I know I watched it when it happened. When Kalas proclaimed Utley to be "the man" I knew I had just heard Kalas make one of the most famous calls if his legendary career.

Yesterday The Fightins posted the above video flashback that every Phillies fan surely thinks they remember. Stop by the popular Phillies blog for a little more background on the sequence of events that culminated in the second best call of the decade by Kalas as well as a follow up video.

49 vintage photography masterpieces

2010-01-14T10:00:00.001-05:00

For this and 48 more, click here to visit The Blog of Innocence.

Sixers lose to Knicks as Samuel Dalembert deals with aftermath of Haiti earthquake

2010-01-14T07:38:00.005-05:00

The Sixers lost a nail biter to the New York Knicks, but basketball was a bit of an afterthought for some. Getty Images

Just short: Knicks holds off Sixers at the buzzer - Dei Lynam, CSNPhilly.com
Narrow loss to Knicks caps a painful day for Sixers - Bob Cooney, Philly.com
Sixers lose game; earn another ping pong ball in Wall sweepstakes - jsam, Liberty Ballers

Any time a Philadelphia team loses to a New York team you can not help but feel a little stung. Last night the Sixers lost to the Knicks 93-92, but on this night not many people were really focused on the game itself.

Haiti native Dalembert coping with with uncertainty - Dei Lyna, CSNPhilly.com
Haiti and Sam Dalembert - John R. Finger, Finger Food
For Sixers' Dalembert, head in the game, heart in Haiti - Sam Donnellon, Philly.com
All the best to Sam Dalembert and his family - Enrico, The 700 Level

One much maligned Sixers player has a personal connection to Haiti. Samuel Dalembert was born in Haiti and still has connections there between friends and family. This obviously is a tough time for Dalembert so as far as basketball is concerned it is remarkable how he can focus in on the sport while his home country is ravaged in the aftermath of a tremendous earth quake that practically shattered the country.

Nobody can truly understand what Dalembert is going through, but hopefully his family and friends are as safe as they can be at this unpleasent time down south.

Flyers beat Dallas more than the Eagles

2010-01-13T05:00:00.000-05:00

The Flyers lit the lamp six times against Dallas. Getty Images

Star power: Balanced Flyers pound Stars - Sarah Baicker, CSNPhilly.com
Sizzling Flyers flatten Stars - Sam Carchidi, Philly.com
Oh, you want goals? Fyers pound Stars 6-3 - Travis Hughes, Broad Street Hockey
Dal-las Sucks! Flyers bludgeon Stars - Matt P, The 700 Level
Tuesday's Three Stars - Matt Romig, Puck Daddy/Yahoo! Sports
Fast starts, defense propelling Flyers - Bill Clement, CSNPhilly.com

The Flyers are on a roll right now. Offense is scoring, defense is keeping the other team at bay and the goal tending has been solid. Not much else to say really. The Flyers have moved into 7th place in the Eastern Conference.

While it is fun to see a Philly team beat up on a team from Dallas, this win does nothing to relieve the sting of losing two consecutive weeks to the Cowboys. But thanks anyway for the effort Flyers. They have scored more times this season against the Dallas Stars than the Eagles have against the Cowboys.

Here we go again with the late night wars

2010-01-12T15:54:00.006-05:00

The big news in TV this week has been the drama surrounding NBC's late night programming. When Jay Leno was given a show, The Jay Leno Show, at 1o pm EST I had serious doubts about the success he would have.

Clearly I was right. Leno is not funny, and now a wider audience at an earlier time slot confirmed what I have been saying for years. Now NBC is removing the 10pm talk show from their schedule and Leno, and NBC, are hoping to insert the former Tonight Show host back in his familiar 11:30 pm EST time slot.

Not so fast. Conan is not about to back down and play second fiddle to his predecessor. Conan has worked years to earn his chance at the big chair behind the desk and he has said rather clearly that he does not welcome the change in moving back a half hour.

Here is his entire statement, released today (HT: New York Times, Media Decoder):

People of Earth:

In the last few days, I've been getting a lot of sympathy calls, and I want to start by making it clear that no one should waste a second feeling sorry for me. For 17 years, I've been getting paid to do what I love most and, in a world with real problems, I've been absurdly lucky. That said, I've been suddenly put in a very public predicament and my bosses are demanding an immediate decision.

Six years ago, I signed a contract with NBC to take over The Tonight Show in June of 2009. Like a lot of us, I grew up watching Johnny Carson every night and the chance to one day sit in that chair has meant everything to me. I worked long and hard to get that opportunity, passed up far more lucrative offers, and since 2004 I have spent literally hundreds of hours thinking of ways to extend the franchise long into the future. It was my mistaken belief that, like my predecessor, I would have the benefit of some time and, just as important, some degree of ratings support from the prime-time schedule. Building a lasting audience at 11:30 is impossible without both.

But sadly, we were never given that chance. After only seven months, with my Tonight Show in its infancy, NBC has decided to react to their terrible difficulties in prime-time by making a change in their long-established late night schedule.

Last Thursday, NBC executives told me they intended to move the Tonight Show to 12:05 to accommodate the Jay Leno Show at 11:35. For 60 years the Tonight Show has aired immediately following the late local news. I sincerely believe that delaying the Tonight Show into the next day to accommodate another comedy program will seriously damage what I consider to be the greatest franchise in the history of broadcasting. The Tonight Show at 12:05 simply isn't the Tonight Show. Also, if I accept this move I will be knocking the Late Night show, which I inherited from David Letterman and passed on to Jimmy Fallon, out of its long-held time slot. That would hurt the other NBC franchise that I love, and it would be unfair to Jimmy.

So it has come to this: I cannot express in words how much I enjoy hosting this program and what an enormous personal disappointment it is for me to consider losing it. My staff and I have worked unbelievably hard and we are very proud of our contribution to the legacy of The Tonight Show. But I cannot participate in what I honestly believe is its destruction. Some people will make the argument that with DVRs and the Internet a time slot doesn't matter. But with the Tonight Show, I believe nothing could matter more.

There has been speculation about my going to another network but, to set the record straight, I currently have no other offer and honestly have no idea what happens next. My hope is that NBC and I can resolve this quickly so that my staff, crew, and I can do a show we can be proud of, for a company that values our work.

Have a great day and, for the record, I am truly sorry about my hair; it's always been that way.

Yours,

Conan

Even in his press release statements, he has a sense of humor. But on a serious note, Conan is absolutely, 100% correct in what he says. What NBC is asking, possibly forcing Conan (and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon) to do is unfair. Leno was not brought back to host The Tonight Show ultimately for one reason: David Letterman and the Late Show was kicking his butt. And guess what? Conan was actually doing a decent job against Letterman, although Letterman still was king of the late night shows.

I imagine that Letterman is sitting back in his office chair doing that little laugh he does at the whole NBC mess. Remember, Letterman was once in the middle of the NBC late night drama when Johnny Carson was set to retire. Letterman once was the third wheel in NBC late night and he jumped ship to CBS to take over the crown of late night television. It was also a pretty decent movie as well.

If Conan really is on his way out of the NBC family then I would look for FOX to do their darnedest to reach a deal with him. How would a late night battle between Letterman, Leno and Conan in the same time slot sound?

Letterman would still hold rank I would imagine but I could see Conan taking second ahead of his mentor, Leno. Conan has a loyal following and on the FOX network Conan would fit right in with his sense of humor.

I admit I do not watch late night talk shows the way I used too, but I can not help but be interested by this mess. As a fan of Conan I hope for the best for him and the rest of his staff.

Especially Richie "LaBamaba" Rosenberg.

How tough are NES games?

2010-01-12T10:52:00.002-05:00

I remember finding a couple Game Boy games in the parking lot of the apartments next to my home growing up once. No clue how long they were left in the open like that, but they seemed to work just fine.

Nintendo systems in general have a reputation for being extremely durable back in the heyday of the Nintendo Entertainment System and Game Boy. Sadly my original NES saw it's Game Over screen a long time ago. My sister eventually received the updated version not long after my NES went kaput (I didn't care because I had already moved on to the Super NES).

Go figure that I now know exactly what I needed to do to repair my old NES and put it back in good working order. So if anybody has an NES that they just feel like getting rid of, I'd be more than happy to take it off your hands.

Sixers feel good at home against Chris Paul, Hornets

2010-01-12T07:12:00.003-05:00

Samuel Dalembert, who hit the big shot at the end, celebrates with Thadeus Young. Getty Images

76ers hang on at finish - Kevin Tatum, Philly.com
Center of attention: Dalembert , Sixers sting Hornets - Dei Lynam, CSNPhilly.com
Sammy's hook and Andre's foul shots lift Sixers over Hornets - TheArtistFormerlyKnownAsMichaelBourne, Liberty Ballers
Changing stripes or grasping at straws - Brian, Depressed Fan

So the Sixers have now won two straight games and at just 12-25 are considered to be in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff hunt. With a fifth seed sitting at 18-18 (Miami Heat) and three teams with records under .500 currently sitting in playoff positions in the east it is unbelievable how bad the conference, and the league, really are.

Regardless of their current record I still feel the team is performing well below expectations. But for one night Andre Iguodala finally was able to get some rest...

Next up for the Sixers is another home game against the New York Knicks on Thursday night.

Not my uncle, Mark McGwire admits to have used steroids

2010-01-11T15:12:00.004-05:00

Big news on the baseball front today as Mark McGwire, who once owned the single season home run record, admitted to steroid use during his career, including the record smashing 1998 season.

Mark McGwire finally came clean Monday, admitting he used steroids when he broke baseball's home run record in 1998.
McGwire says in a statement sent to The Associated Press on Monday that he used steroids on and off for nearly a decade and he apologizes for his actions.

He says: "I wish I had never touched steroids. It was foolish and it was a mistake. I truly apologize. Looking back, I wish I had never played during the steroid era."
[link]

If this is the case then I would hope that the powers that be in baseball strike McGwire's numbers form the record books in an official manner. Never before has a player admitted to using steroids during such a notable season, and since McGwire, who has absolutely NO RELATION to me, has singled out one specific season I see no reason why this can not be done.

Many will applaud McGwire for coming clean to one of the worst kept secrets in baseball history. While I will not laud a guy for admitting to cheating in his sport I will get off his back for not doing so. Now that he has come clean though there will likely be some people that feel he should now be considered for the Hall of Fame.

No dice.

The man admitted to cheating in multiple seasons during what many once felt was a Hall of Fame career. He may have been a legitimately good player on his own merit at one point in his life, but there is now no question that he should never be elected to the Hall of Fame.

That's how I feel about it at least. What do you think?

Sixers take down Pistons in Detroit

2010-01-10T11:34:00.006-05:00

Brand stars as 76ers top Pistons - Kate Fagan, Philly.com
Holding tight: Sixers hold off late push to snap skid - Larry Lage (AP) via CSNPhilly.com
Worst possible outcomes - TheArtistFormerlyKnownasMichaelBourne, Liberty Ballers

The Sixers made like the Flyers and picked up a win that nobody will pay attention to last night. Their win in Detroit gets them off a losing streak but will be an after thought for a couple reasons.

The Sixers still stink
Wins prevent the team from having more lottery balls in the NBA lottery
The Eagles lost last night

So the question is this; when is it time for the Sixers to tank the rest of their season? Will Allen Iverson skip the all-star game? He is currently second in fan voting, which is absurd.

Flyers provide thunder against Lightning

2010-01-10T11:25:00.003-05:00

Betts nets 2, Flyers beat Lightning - Sam Carchidi, Philly.com
Lights out: Flyers beat Lightning, win third straight - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
F-L-Y-E-R-S- FLYERS! Betts scores two, Philly wins 4-1 - Travis Hughes, Broad Street Hockey
Stat-Us Update: Gagne nets 500th career point, all with Flyers - MattP, The 700 Level

Before the Eagles drowned the city's sports fans of their enthusiasm, the Flyers (and Sixers) actually provided some positive wins. The Flyers took on the Tampa Bay Lightning, who will essentially be playing three games in three days, with the third coming this evening.

Simon Gagne's 500th career point, just days after teammate Danny Briere scored his 500th point, will be overshadowed in the sports headlines today, but it is worth mentioning.

Gagne has only played with the Flyers and when healthy gives the Flyers a goal scorer on any given line. With all of the injuries he has dealt with the 500th point should have come a long time ago, but it is still a remarkable feat. Congratulations to Gagne.

Eagles lose to Cowboys, but don't pack McNabb's bags yet

2010-01-10T11:02:00.005-05:00

The Cowboys had little problem with the Eagles on both sides of the ball for a second straight week. Getty Images

Done in Dallas: Eagles crushed by Cowboys, 34-14 - Andy Scwartz, CSNPhilly.com
Star Stuck - Bob Brookover, Philly.com
Doomsday - Rich Hoffman, Philly.com
Eagles Notes: Linebackers, Westbrook and stats - Andy Schwartz, CSNPhilly.com
This was a total and complete organizational domination - Gary Cobb, GCobb.com
Embarrassed in Big D - Enrico, The 700 Level
Eagles roll over and play dead - Dany Sloan, Phinally Philly
Donovan may not have thrown up, but I feel like I'm going to... - JasonB, Bleeding Green Nation

While most of the Philadelphia region is in the familiar mourning that follows an Eagles playoff exit, one of my blogging buddies woke up this morning with a grin on their faces. Before Eagles fans go all crazy and drink the kool-aid sports radio talk and ship Donovan McNabb out of town consider this...

The Cowboys were just the better team this season. Nothing proves that more than the 3-0 record, and two consecutive beat downs in Dallas. It happens.
McNabb had a poor outing again, but keep in mind the lack f protection he received behind an offensive line that was pieced together with inexperienced and over-rated players. Jason Peters is a Pro Bowler? Are you kidding me? He's good for at least key false start penalties any game, and more against a top defensive end like DeMarcus Ware.
The youth of the key offensive players was clear. DeSean Jackson, as good as he can be, could not get open against the Dallas secondary and neither could Jeremy Maclin (except for that one fun play involving Mike Vick.)
It was not McNabb who allowed the Cowboys to score over 30 points. That fault is of the defense. Losing Stewart Bradley for the season hurt this defense, especially when Omar Gaither went down too. Brian Dawkins would have been nice too, but that's another debate for another time...
If Andy Reid is an offensive genius he should have had his team more prepared to score more than 14 points in the past two weeks against a division opponent, regardless of who the quarterback was.

It was an ugly game for sure, but I actually like the prospects of the 2010 season, with McNabb at quarterback. The team needs stability on the offensive line. Losing two Pro Bowlers had more of an effect on the team this season than the team probably anticipated. And the defensive line needs to improve and apply pressure up front. Without it every good quarterback in the NFL will have time to find someone that is open every time. And can the defense finally figure out a way to cover tight ends? Sorry Jeremiah Trotter, but I do not think you are the answer there. A healthy Bradley will help immensely next season.

I leave no question that I would rather see the Eagles keep McNabb behind center, but I anticipate many people feel differently. So how do you feel about McNabb as an Eagle moving forward? Yea or Nae?

Flock 2.5.6 available

2010-01-09T09:00:00.001-05:00

Many people are unaware of the Flock browser. Essentially it takes everything that is great about Firefox and adds a couple touches to satisfy the social media enthusiast. You can do all of your normal web browsing in the usual window and utilize the greatness that is tabbed browsing. In addition you can post to your grab photos from practically anywhere and blog right from the browser without much of a problem. As if that were not enough you can load up your Facebook and Twitter streams (and MySpace if you still live in the stone age of social networking) in your left sidebar.

What makes these sidebars so useful, for me at least, is I can post a link directly to Facebook without having to load up the Facebook server. I can also upload photos and videos right to my Facebook page, which has helped me become more of a fan of Facebook than I used to be. Truth be told, I probably have become a little annoying on Facebook because of it as well.

I can also update my Twitter status on the same sidebar after clicking on the Twitter logo. But as a loyal Tweetdeck user (although I am getting fed up with the mobile version lately) I tend to use my sidebar primarily for Facebook purposes.

But recently the sidebar that I adore has been a little buggy. Updates have not been as frequent, leaving me to see updates from friends that are hours, if not days behind. So the good news for me is that they have just released an updated version this week.

Usually I receive an alert informing me that there is a new update for my browser of choice, but the Flock tam has turned off auto-updates for version 2.5.6. So I had to check my RSS feed from the Flock Blog to learn of the new update. The new version is supposed to address issues regarding the Twitter stream, some Firefox security issues and Flickr log out issues.

Facebook chat notifications are still in the works for an upgrade, but because Facebook is always changing their API for that feature and do not share it with developers like they do other features, it looks like the Flock team is going to hold off on correcting that problem until Facebook calms down.

I just installed 2.5.6 so I'll give it a couple days before offering my thoughts on the new version. If you happen to use it and wish to share your thoughts go right ahead in the comments below.

Download Flock 2.5.6 | Release notes

Final Football Pool post; Dad wins again

2010-01-08T10:00:00.001-05:00

With the conclusion of the NFL's regular season it is time to take one final look at my performance in the football pool in my dad's office pool. Needless to say it was a rough season for me.
After winning the football pool in week 15 I took a slide to end the season. Much to my dismay my dad's weekly total went up each of those weeks, giving his lead on me one final push at the end of the season. When all was said and done my dad outscored me on the season by 67 points. In the bar graph on the right my dad's point total is represented by the orange bar and my points are represented by the blue bar.

So I have my work cut out for me in the future. If I am included in the pool next year I will have to spend some more time planning out my point allotment on a weekly basis.

I clearly have relied too much on the defending champion Pittsburgh Steelers early on in the season and tended to give too many points to Matt Schaub at the Houston Texans. I think I did a little better with laying points on the Philadelphia Eagles though. In recent years I would tend to lay too many points on the Eagles, letting my fandom get in the way.

I was amazed at how much the New York Giants let me down this season, but I suppose that Giants fans feel the same way in general.

Flyers finally beat in-state rival Penguins

2010-01-08T07:03:00.005-05:00

Chris Pronger and the Flyers beat up on the Penguins. Getty Images

Flyers pour on the offense in win over Penguins - Frank Seravalli, Phily.com
Encore show: Flyers drop Penguins in wild affair - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
STATEMENT: Flyers are back, march on Penguins - Matt P, The 700 Level
The swagger is back: Flyers chase Fleury, stomp on Penguins - Travis Hughes, Broad Street Hockey
Rookie helps Flyers send Pens a message - Sam Carchidi, Philly.com
Despite agreement among Flyers & Pens fans, NHL botches Gagne goal call - Travis Hughes,Broad Street Hockey
Hats off to the officials - Chris Shafer, Phinally Philly

Sure the Flyers took care of business against the hated Penguins in blow out fashion, but will Flyers fans be talking about? How the NHL screwed Simon Gagne and the Flyers by not awarding a short-handed goal. After looking at some video (and photo) evidence I am not sure how the NHL decided that Gagne did not score a goal.

Or the Sidney Crosby goal that never should have been because the Penguins were offsides. Take your pick really.

I'll be honest though, I did not watch the game originally. I was covering the BCS Championship game over on Examiner with a live examination. But if you watched the Flyers-Penguins game feel free to let me know what I missed last night.

Introducing my next phone - Nexus One

2010-01-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

When my wife got a new phone recently (HTC Eris utilizing Android) I was instantly jealous. You see, I am not due for an upgrade for another six months so I have to wait a while until I can move to the next stage of cell phone usage. Now, I have no problems with my current phone, a Motorolla Adventure V750, but seeing how much my wife gets out of her new phone makes me eager for an upgrade.

I had figured that with the Android phone being relatively new it would take some time for any wrinkles to be ironed out in the system so I was fine waiting that long. Perhaps a new and improved phone would be added to fit my personal preferences in that time.

Turns out I was right, although it was not quite what I had expected.

The Google phone, now given a name of Nexus One, may be just the phone I will be waiting for.

The Nexus One will be available to Verizon users in spring and will be available to T-Mobile users immediately. This is proof that Google is set out to compete head to head with the iPhone as it is the first time a phone of this nature will be available on two competing providers so early in its release. When comparing networks PC Magazine predicts that the Nexus One will overtake the popular Droid once it becomes available on Verizon's network.

I also like the news that the Nexus One will support Flash. When it comes to web surfing the ability to view Flash content is almost a necessity. More importantly, it is something not supported by the Apple iPhone right now as Apple and Adobe have an ongoing stalemate that ultimately keeps iPhone users from experiencing web browsing the way it is largely intended.

I have no doubt that the Nexus One will be successful. Nick Bilton of the New York Times claims that the Nexus One will be successful largely due to its prime advertising space right on Google's simple front page. I can't argue with that belief and I am sure it certainly won't hurt sales for Google. But take a look at Google's history. When was the last time they did anything that was not a success?

Web search? Check.

Digital photo online storage and editing? Check.

Maps? Check. Check. Check. Check!

E-Mail? Check. Second check pending.

Google is really coming on strong as a viable competitor in a number of various markets. Now they take on the cell phone market. Next up? Operating system.

Will the Nexus One be an iPhone killer? Probably not because of the large iPhone user base and loyal Apple users. But the Nexus One does appear to be the kind of phone that could sway people away from the trendy iPhone, at least while it is available solely on the AT&T network. Being a Verizon customer I have fixated my eyes on the Nexus One as my next phone.

In six months it will be mine. Oh yes. It will be mine.

Flyers fight past Maple Leafs

2010-01-07T08:00:00.001-05:00

Dan Carcillo had a fight and a highlight reel worthy goal in the rout of Toronto. Getty Images

Flyers 6, Maple Leafs 2 - John McGourty, NHL.com
Flyers cruise past Maple Leafs - Frank Seravalli, Philly.com
Quick Six: Flyers handle Maple Leafs, 6-2 - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Briere reaches milestone in Flyers' victory - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com

Now that's the kind of hockey I like to see the Flyers play. Six goals, including Danny Briere's 500th career point, and some fights. Who doesn't love old time hockey? The win puts the Flyers in tenth place n the Eastern Conference and just two points behind the current eighth seeded Montreal Canadiens with two games in hand.

And whikle we are on the topic of the Flyers, it was cool seeing them wear their Winter Classic jerseys again for their home fans. I guess tht would be the final time they wear those jerseys though. I love the look of the classic jersey.

The Flyers get right back on the ice tonight with a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

PAC-MAN on Twitter

2010-01-06T13:00:00.001-05:00

I came across this humorous picture while putting together my previous post on how Twitter changed my life in 2009. I could not resist sharing it with you.

What you have missed on Lost, or a reminder of what happened

2010-01-06T12:35:00.003-05:00

With the long awaited return of Lost, for its final season on television, many people are scrambling to finish up the season five DVD or Blu-Ray before the season premiere. However, if you do not have time to watch the previous season, or the entire series, here is a handy video to get you all caught up on what has made Lost such a great program.

HT: BagofNothing

Expect much more Lost conversation this season on the site.

How Twitter changed my life in 2009

2010-01-06T10:00:00.002-05:00

Truth be told I have been on Twitter since 2008 but in 2009 I feel I took my Twitter experience to a new level as I explored the benefits of the micro-blogging tool. I consider myself a "Twitterer" or whatever you want to call it but I feel that I use Twitter in a respectable manner. I do not inform people that I have just woken up from a nap or tell people that I am about to head out to the post office.

Instead I try to use Twitter for two purposes.

Publicize myself
Communicate back and forth with like minded individuals

Twitter is a valuable resource for anyone and you can tailor it to best suit your needs any way you can imagine. In 2009 here are a couple ways that my Twitter experience has grown.

It's like my own personal PR machine
Athletes and celebrities have publicists and agents to publicize their work. I do not, but I do have Twitter.

Using Twitter is a great way to publicize my posts on a variety of forums such as this site, Examiner and Nittany White Out. All I have to do is send a tweet that I have a new post active to all of my followers and see if any of them check it out. If I am fortunate enough one of my followers will be compelled to re-tweet my work, sending my posts to a whole new set of followers and potential readers.

I honestly feel that taking advantage of Twitter helped me find a position with Examiner as the Penn State Football Examiner, and then National College Football Examin er. There is no doubt in my mind that Twitter helped to clear my path to recurring guest spots on The 700 Level and Phinally Philly as well, in addition to my contributing to Nittany White Out. Posting on those sites opened me up to a whole new reader pool and I have picked up some followers from each outlet over time.

When news breaks, it's on Twitter
Harry Kalas. Michael Jackson. The plane on the Hudson. The Iran election.

When these news stories broke they spread quickly on the Twitter servers either locally or world-wide. When something news worthy happens they look to Twitter for instant reaction and sometimes analysis. I have learned a lot of news just by reading what people are tweeting. Think it is over the top? Google does not think so. Why else would they have added real-time Twitter streaming in their Google search results?

The death of Michael Jackson practically crashed the entire Internet, with Twitter being one of the major culprits. When President Barrack Obama was sworn in as President of the United States people were tweeting about it, including myself.

Twitter is still growing in users on a daily basis, although it is often still mocked by those who feel it is a waste of time. It can be a time-waster if not used responsibly, but so can e-mail and text messaging. When I hear media and everyday people mock Twitter I tend to think that these people have never used the service and therefore do not fully understand it. When people do not understand something they tend to mock them and the people who do use it.

I see the value in Twitter and I hope that you do too. In the past year how has Twitter changed your life? It may be a major change or something on a much smaller scale. Let me know your thoughts. Also be sure to be following me on Twitter @krmcguire!

Sixers fire blanks at Wizards, Iverson to stay on board

2010-01-06T07:00:00.002-05:00

Wizards shoot by Sixers - Kate Fagan, Philly.com
Vanishing act: Wizards rally to defeat Sixers - Dei Lynam, CSNPhilly.com

Another day, another loss for the home town NBA team. The Sixers let a healthy lead slip through their hands as the Washington Wizards completed a three game season sweep. How many teams get swept in a season by the Wizards AND Clippers?

How bad are the Wizards? Of their eleven wins this season, three have come against the Sixers. The Sixers now have the fourth worst record in the league. I'm not a basketball expert here, but doesn't this team have too much talent to only have won ten games this season? I am not claiming that the Sixers should be up at the top of the Eastern Conference with the Celtics or Cavaliers, but to be behind the Wizards, Pacers and Knicks?

Seems to me as though Eddie Jordan is not working out.

Oh and if you did not notice, extra credit to Philadelphia Inquirer Sixers beat reporter Kate Fagan.

Whether she came up with it or not, somebody on the Philly.com staff has a sense of humor. Gilbert Arenas of the Wizards is in the thick of a gun controversy within the team locker room, so after the Wizards defeated the Sixers the lead on the game recap had a play on words (pictured, right).

Iverson's contract with Sixers guaranteed for remainder of season - Sixers.com
For better or for worse, the team had to come to a decision yesterday on whether or not to keep Allen Iverson on the team for the remainder of the season. Perhaps in an attempt to stay in the news they opted to guarantee Iverson's contract for the rest of 2009-2010 season. If you ask me this is a good move. As poor as this team is playing, letting go of a franchise icon would not have gone over well with the fan base.

You know what would make basketball more interesting in Philadelphia? Crazy dunks from down town and basketballs that set the net on fire.

BOOM SHAKA LAKA! NBA Jam coming to Nintendo Wii!

2010-01-05T13:42:00.000-05:00

EA Sports has announced that they will be bringing back a classic arcade, and to many a home console hit, and it will be exclusively available on the Nintendo Wii. That title is none other than NBA Jam! I'm heating up just thinking about the updated NBA licensed title.

For those who do not remember the great times that wre had on NBA Jam then you are likely in for a treat with the upcoming remake. Flaming basketballs, wild shots, crazy dunks, 2-on-2 arcade play, classic announcer, an entire roster of secret players like Bill (and Hillary) Clinton, mascots and no-fouls made for a good time whenever played! I just hope that EA Sports does not hack the traditional style too much in the remake.

Many questions should be asked though.

Will it be playable on-line?
This, to me, is a must as NBA Jam is tailored for multii-player fun, being an arcade game. I'm sure multi-player will be available on the same console, and given it is being produced by EA Sports I would assume an on-line mode would be created. This could open the doors for some outstanding on-line interaction; NBA Jam tournaments, rankings, create a player and share a player? Huge potential here.

Will it make use of the Wii Motion Plus?
Perhaps enhanced WiiMotion Plus features could allow for certain styles of dunks with a specific motion.

What do you remember most about the original NBA Jam? What do you hope to see in the exclusive Wii title? Feel free to discuss in the comments.

Chocolate Cheerios? Where have you been?

2010-01-04T15:32:00.003-05:00

I have always been a fn of Cheerios. I enjoy my share of chocolate. So when you combine the two it should be no surprise that my interest has been piqued. Perhaps another time.

Sixers pick up Philadelphia's first win of 2010

2010-01-04T07:46:00.004-05:00

Lou Williams and the Sixers outlasted the Denver Nuggets in Allen Iverson's return to Denver. Getty Images

76ers hold on against Nuggets, barely - Kate Fagan, Philly.com
Back on Track: Sixers win in Denver, 108-105 - AP report via CSNPhilly.com

The Eagles are 0-1 and the Flyers are 0-2 in 2010. The Sixers are now 1-0.

After a last second shot by the Denver Nuggets failed to go through the hoop as time expired the Sixers claimed their first victory of the new year and finally reached double digits in the win column. At 10-23 would you believe that the Sixers are just 4.5 games out of the playoffs? Isn't that just embarrassing?

Now the Sixers are also in the Tracy McGrady trade watch. There would be no real benefit on the court this season but his expiring $23 million contract could help GM Ed Stefanski find some room to build a contending team. It would likely require trading Andre Iguadala.

Not sure how to feel about it. The team looks like a mess still so I would prefer a higher draft pick, but what do you think?

Flyers lose to Senators, home of the worst NHL fans?

2010-01-04T07:40:00.003-05:00

The ref picks up the one hat that Senators fans tossed for Alex Kovalev's hat trick. Getty Images

Wild one: Flyers battle back but fall to Senators - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Flyers fall short vs. Senators - Sam Carchidi, Philly.com
Flyers overcome three goal deficit, lose by three anyway - Travis Hughes, Broad Street Hockey

The Flyers lost a wild one up north, but what I find amusing is the fact that Senators fans tossed just one hat on the ice after Alex Kovalev scored a hat trick in the game. Had a Flyers player done it in the Wachovia Center I venture to say that there would be more than one hat thrown on the ice to honor the achievement.

Therefore Ottawa fans are at the bottom of my list when ranking NHL fan bases!

Eagles lose in Dallas, look for revenge this weekend

2010-01-04T07:18:00.003-05:00

Marion Barber and the Cowboys ran away with a victory against the Eagles. Getty Images

Cowboys blank Eagles a week before Wild Card match-up - Les Bowen, Philly.com
Dead end: Eagles demolished by Cowboys, 24-0 - Andy Scwartz, CSNPhilly.com
Reid dropped the ball for Eagles, but can he recover? - Rich Hoffman, Philly.com
Eagles Notes: Cowboys wonder where did the blitzes go? - Bob Brookover and Jeff McLane, Philly.com
Humbled Birds and a look to 2010 - Andy Scwartz, CSNPhilly.com
Don't believe blitzing is the answer to everything - Gary Cobb, GCobb.com
Eagles get kill-kill-killed in season finale against Dallas (Omaha, Omaha) - Enrico, The 700 Level
Eagles embarrassing in their worst performance of season - Dany Sloan, Phinally Philly

This was not exactly how Eagles fans wanted to start 2010, with a shut-out loss to the rival Cowboys. But the good news the team gets a short week to move past the sting of losing the NFC East, and a number two seed in the NFC playoffs, because the Eagles will head right back to the scene of the crime Saturday night. The Cowboys will host the Eagles in the first round of the playoffs at 8pm on Saturday.

I turned the game off after the Cowboys went up 24-0 and opted to play some New Super Mario Brothers Wii with my wife. I think it was a wise decision. The offense looked flat, except for my new favorite Eagles player Brent Celek, and the defense could not stop anybody.

Give credit to the Cowboys, who have now won three games in December. The real test for them will be getting over that playoff drought. "America's Team" has not won a playoff game since 1996. They match up well against the Eagles though and open up as a four point favorite for Saturday's NFC Wild Card match-up.

Donovan McNabb will have to play better. He was off on throws to DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin numerous times on throws that could have drastically changed the outcome early on.

Project 365 - 1.3.2010 - Farkle Addict

2010-01-03T20:42:00.005-05:00

I am a bit of a Farkle addict. Ever since I learned about it on Facebook I have found myself playing the game on an almost daily basis! It is quite addictive so my wife bought me a nice stocking stuffer; a home version of the dice game!

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.4.2010 - 1.15.2010
Previous: 1.2.2010

Eagles-Cowboys marriage counseling

2010-01-03T16:55:00.002-05:00

Illustration by Rob Tornoe. Source

Project 365 - 1.2.2010

2010-01-02T20:00:00.002-05:00

The chocolate pudding was delicious with whipped cream on top.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.3.2010
Previous: 1.1.2010

Flyers lose to Bruins in Winter Classic in OT

2010-01-02T11:46:00.005-05:00

Regardless of the result, it was a great scene at Fenway Park. Getty images.

Winter Classic no winner for Flyers - Frank Seravalli, Philly.com
Extra Innings: Bruins rally to win in OT at Fenway - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
At Fenway: Flyers revel in Classic Atmosphere - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Put 'em up: Carcillo gets a Classic first - Tim Panaccio, CSNPhilly.com
Frenetic Finish - Sam Carchidi, Philly.com

One of the drawbacks of yesterday was that the Capital One Bowl was on at the same time as the Flyers in the Winter Classic. I chose to DVR the hockey game and flip over to it during commercials of the Penn State game. I finally got to watch it this morning.

Although the Flyers went down in overtime it was still a cool experience to watch the Flyers and Bruins battle on one of baseball's most storied stadiums, Fenway Park. The Winter Classic has become a great tradition in the NHL and I hope it continues to be held in future years. I would still love a chance to see the Flyers take on the Penguins up in Beaver Stadium.

If they ever get that together I will be there.

Penn State wins Capital One Bowl

2010-01-02T10:55:00.004-05:00

Collin Wagner kicks his fourth field goal of the day to give Penn State the late lead. Getty Images

Penn State overcomes muddy field and second half surge to defeat LSU in 2010 Capital One Bowl - Examiner
Capital One Bowl Video Slideshow - Nittany White Out
Late PSU FG drive, heady play by Navorro Bowman key Penn State's 19-17 win over LSU - Bob Flounders, The Patriot News

The year of 2010 started out with a sloppy game in the Capital One Bowl, but Penn State was able to come away with a victory on the strength of Collin Wagner's four field goals. Daryll Clark made sure he finished his career with a win in a bog game against a tough opponent.

Despite a semi-rough outing, Clark ended the day by throwing a deep touchdown to open the scoring and driving the team down field with the game on the line to set up the winning score. It will take some time before we really take a look at Clark and his legacy but for one day he was honored with an important victory.

Penn State finishes the season at 11-2 for the second straight season. Over the last five seasons Penn State has a 4-1 record in bowl games, a far cry from where the decade started for the program.

Now it is time to say good-bye to the seniors, find out which juniors will leave early (Navorro Bowman and Evan Royster?) and wrap up recruiting for the class of 2010. Next season should be interesting but we'll get more into that at a later time.

Project 365 - 1.1.2010

2010-01-01T16:20:00.004-05:00

Giving the Project 365 another try, starting on the first day of the New Year. And there are not many ways better than ringing in the new year than with a Penn State bowl game and a Coca-Cola.

Project 365 One Day at a Time
Next: 1.2.2010

Most popular blog post of 2009

2010-01-01T14:00:00.001-05:00

The Mario Monday feature on the blog has grown to become one that has directed the most traffic through these pages. But in 2009, according to Google Analytics no post on my site has received as much traffic as this particular post.

Mario Monday - Donkey Kong Jr.

Every time I review my stats I find that this post leads the way. People searching for images of Donkey Kong or people wondering what Mario's original name was or curious what the first game with Mario in it always seem to land on this page. This is interesting because it was the second post in the Mario Monday feature, and Donkey Kong Jr. was not the first game to star Mario.

Most played songs in iTunes for December

2010-01-01T12:00:00.000-05:00

Not surprisingly my iTunes player was dominated by holiday music in December. Also as expected, A Charlie Brown Christmas was the most played album.

There are few things I enjoy listening to better while typing than easy listening jazz, and Vince Guaraldi's work is perfect background music no matter the time of year.

Penn State Game Day - "What's in Your Wallet?" Edition

2010-01-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

Capital One Bowl
January 1, 2010
1:00 PM
ABC

#13 Penn State (10-2, 6-2 Big Ten) vs. #12 LSU (9-3, 5-3 SEC)

Is there a better way to ring in the new year than with a good quality bowl game? Sure, it may not be a BCS game but at this point who cares? The only draw back for me is that it is on at the same time as the Flyers in the Winter Classic up in Boston.

Here is some light reading material for you regarding the Capital One Bowl.

Examiner
Capital One Bowl Preview: Penn State vs. LSU
Capital One Bowl video preview

NittanyWhiteOut
Capital One Bowl video preview

Guest Posts
Phinally Philly
The 700 Level (live at 10:00 am EST)

I'll be watching the game so feel free to drop me a comment below or follow me on Twitter for my instant thoughts on the developments of the game. I may have to try and get a second TV set up so I can watch the highly anticipated Flyers-Bruins game as well.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T07:04:00.002-05:00

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Jeff Parker - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

Happy New Year to you! May 2010 bring you good health, fortune, and good memories.

One last snow fall for 2009

2009-12-31T07:46:00.004-05:00

Woke up this morning and realized that it was snowing. I guess we can handle one more snowfall this year, right?