Is There Anyone Left?

Another day, another legend down the tubes.

This is the environment we've all been conditioned to live in. It's not a great time to be a baseball fan. It's not a great time to be a sports fan. As face after face of America's pastime gets associated with cheating and lack of organic numbers, there's only one clear loser here: the fans.

You could argue, as I might, that Barry Bonds is one of the "winners" today. This guy has born the brunt of the steroids discussion for so long it's just absurd. It was the to the point where I think the majority of people actually believed that outside of BALCO, there wasn't much steroid use in baseball.

As we can see now, that was simply not true.

I know there are a lot of Red Sox fans who will be on the defense for the next few weeks trying to defend the '04 championship. And realistically, it's going to be a tough argument. But it's not just the Sox; it's every team in the Major Leagues. You just happened to win the World Series; just like Bonds happened to hit 73 home runs.

It's not the Sox' fault. I personally don't believe they cultivated a steroids culture to obtain success. However, you could argue that without performance enhancing drugs, the Sox never win the World Series, never recreate Red Sox Nation and never ultimately receive the ultimate fandom that gives them so much money and power in the MLB.

Look, the Red Sox and the Yankees have the most money. When you have the most money, you can sign the players that put up the biggest numbers. The Sox got Manny and the Yankees had Giambi. Whether Manny turned Ortiz on to roids or whether it was someone in the Twins' organization, we don't know yet. I'm sure Selena Roberts can do some digging and find out (As a Twins fan, I really hope he wasn't on roids when we had him because his numbers suckkkkked).

And to be fair, the Sox and Yankees and Dodgers and all the other big market teams went out and signed the biggest players with the best numbers. It's what anyone would have done. We didn't know the extent of steroids use in 2003 (and for argument and sanity's sake, let's assume GMs and owners didn't either) and therefore, it's not unreasonable to assume they thought these players were putting up gigantic numbers legitimately. When the Yankees signed Giambi, they didn't sign him with a caveat suggesting he needed to continue taking steroids and HGH and the Clear while he was on the team. The numbers were just expected to show up.

When the Red Sox signed Manny to his deal and when the Yankees signed A-Rod to his deal, it was likely not expected these players would continue to pump their bodies full of chemicals to continue putting up big numbers and putting asses in the seats. Presumably, their teams are as shocked by the testing results as much as us.

But here's the point: you should be angry. It's not an excuse to say that everyone was doing it. You should be angry that we were all duped. We all watched the long balls fly out of ballparks all across the country and we were all too stupid to realize what was going on. When Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa went bananas, we all watched. We didn't ask questions. We just loved Big Mac Land and the Sosa Hop.

When David Ortiz started "pulling the ball for the first time," we didn't ask questions. When A-Rod put up season after season of incredible numbers, we didn't ask questions. Even when relief pitchers were throwing 98-99 and reviving their careers at age 33, we didn't ask questions.

The difference? There's no victory for us as fans. We didn't get to make the millions of dollars that all the other players did. Look -- I'm not blaming Ortiz or Manny or Sheffield or Giambi or Bonds or Benito f***ing Santiago for taking 'roids. They were available, they made you better and, more importantly, they made them a ton of money. But it's ridiculous. Think about it logically.

Let's assume, for argument's sake, that some people didn't take HGH. If that's actually true, then how unfair were the contracts everyone else got? I will personally never believe a player when they say they're clean. If you're putting up big numbers (and we're all staring at you, Albert Pujols), you're on something. Plain and simple.

Because here's the truth of the matter: What they've done is just not possible. The astronomical numbers. The record breaking seasons. It's not true. None of it is true. The numbers we know -- 755, 56, .406, 61 -- there's a reason why those numbers are records. Obviously, .406 and 56 haven't been broken yet. But what this has proven to me is these numbers are actually untouchable or close to it. Bonds broke Maris's record, McGwire's record and Aaron's record. And only because he cheated.

The Sox and Yankees scoring 900 runs a season. Joe Nathan becoming a dominating closer after an injury-riddled history. Did Nathan get there because of HGH or the Twins' "velocity development program"? I don't know for sure.

I've always made a joke out of steroids because I argued it was so fun to watch the players. You think about Sosa, Bonds, Manny, A Rod, McGwire, Sheffield; these are some of the most exciting swings and athletes in the major leagues. I loved watching Clemens throw heat at age 44. It was really cool in a way.

But now, as more of the list tumbles out, I'm beginning to realize our generation doesn't have a Ted Williams or a Joe DiMaggio. I was devastated to read the other day that Bill James is convinced Kirby Puckett and Gary Gaettti (two key cogs in the Twins' first World Series title in 1987) were on steroids. But they probably did. Puckett's numbers were incredible and he died young.

What we're getting at here is the ugly truth: it's not BALCO. It's not just Bonds and the Giambi brothers and Ortiz and Randy Velarde and Ken Caminiti. It's everyone.

All the players from your generation. The ones who graced the walls of your room and received the largest contracts in the history of the sport cheated their way to the top. And the worst part of it all is the ones who aren't implicated are probably just not guilty yet.

You think Jeter was clean? We don't know for sure. He put up some huge numbers in 1999. Nomar? Probably on steroids. Tony Gwynn? Cal Ripken Jr.? Go up and down the list and you can make a case for almost anyone.

Hell, Rickey probably juiced.

Baseball is supposed to be pure and I think we all recognize that. With everything in this world that's stupid and unfair, we should at least have some semblance of fair play in between the baselines. But what we've realized over the past couple years is it's not an even playing field.

The majority of players get ahead and get rich in sports by cheating. And that sucks.

-Anthony "Balla"

Another Thursday deal and how hot is Stacy Kiebler?

Here is another great deal for all of you junkies out there. I honestly need to buy something like this because I bought a brand new laptop and I just leave that thing chilling on my bed/lap all day. I heard it's pretty bad for the laptop to leave it on a surface like blankets because it get's the thing wicked hot...and for all you dudes out there it shouldn't be on your lap because that thing is MURKING your sperm. So unless you don't want your guys to swim you better invest....

Laptop Tray with Lamp and Cup Holder - $10.99 + $6.99 shipping
Click HERE to grab it.

Also...since we haven't thrown a babe up yet, how F*ing hot is Stacy Kiebler? Is she the hottest ever? Have we paid homage to her before and I have just forgot????
Whatever the case may be she definitely needs to be put out by the imaginary fire extinguisher. I mean don't get me wrong I love all of you, but I would probably murder 3 of you all at random for one night with her. She has the most redicccccccculous body ive ever seen. I honestly need to stop....go party tonight. See you all tomorrow night at the Tavern. WOOOOOOOOOO.


-J Perkkkk

Thursday Throwback: Light Up Sneakers

(Every Thursday WKFTB will bring you a throwback, something that reminds us of our late-80s-early-90s childhood. Today's edition: Light Up Sneakers.).

Back in the day, it was a treat to be able to stay out past dusk. Getting to still run around and play during the night time was a gift to be treasured. Maybe even skip supper too.

The only thing that made it better was proper footwear that was comfortable and could light your way. And we gotta give props here, because it was LA Gear came up with the Light Up Sneakers. Look at that 80s Purple collection at the top. Woowwwiiee.

I'm not sure if I love or hate that I used to think those things were tight. But I'm pretty sure everyone did. I believe British Knights came up with a duplicate (BK Lights?) but none could compare to the originals. I couldn't find the ill commercial with the kid in the park, but I was able to at least find one old one:

You know how popular LA Gear was in general? Well the King of Pop himself endorsed them:

Also, we can't talk about these kicks without mentioning the prevailing rumor (trumor?) at the time: the kid who was caught by the police because of his light up shoes. Once you heard this, kids everywhere were hesitant to cause trouble with these suckers on. Didn't want people pointing and saying, "no it was the kid with the red light up shoes."

LOL, red light up sneakers. Sounds ridiculous to even say. Or so I thought...because during my research for this post, I noticed that, yup, someone brought them back. This past year, there was a relaunch of LA Gear Lights. Things like dece?

Did you own LA Lights or a similar set of light up sneakers? Let me here any awesome memories stories, if so.

--Nick

Raaaaaaaandy - Funny People

I watched a little Funny People preview on HBO yesterday. I think it has some potential to be pretty good. Its also a different concept though so who knows. I wish we got to see it early but it comes out tomorrow.

Sandler, Jonah Hill, Rogen, Aziz, and some other girl play stand up comedians. This one named Randy that Aziz plays is ridiculous and really funny to me. It might not be for everyone but I loved it. I loved his dj, DJ OL' YOUNGIN. Raaaaaaaandy.

Raaaaaaaandy - Part 1 (Funny People) from Aziz Ansari

-Wolfie

And OT but Manny/Ortiz news doesn't really kill me. Shock was already sanded down with Manny's suspension this year and I would have bet my life Ortiz was during that time period. The confirmation blows I guess. The whole tainted thing is stupid though. Everyone juiced, sucks but you gotta get over it.

Allen Iverson Touching?

--Nick

Thursday Deal (On Wednesday)

That's right folks the kid is back. And today we have a nice small little treat for you. Noise Cancelling headphones. That's right...I'm sure most of you are familiar with them. I know that I have a nice pair myself, the only problem is they are QHUGE (yes I meant to have a Q in there). So here is a smaller pair for you....


Philips Active Noise Canceling Headphones
$7.99+ $5 shipping

Click HERE to grab them.

Just some basic uses for this great product include

-Blocking noise while being used on airplanes

-Blocking the sound of my/your roomates telling you to not come home drunk and puking again

-Blocking the sound of your nagging girl/boy -friend

-Blocking out the sound of the police who are telling you to stop giving them the Charlie Daniels SUCK IT

Along with many other common uses. Just like Kevin Nealon told Happy Gilmore in....well in Happy Gilmore, you need the block the bad, and harness good...block bad, harness good. This little treat can help you do that.


The Kid is back....


-J Perk

Are my dreams crushed?

So the thousands of you that read our blog daily know that a couple of months ago I made a post regarding the fact that I was training for a marathon in October. Well, very typical of my life, last week while playing in a summer basketball game my knee got crundled against the hoop/pole, resulting in some sort of moderate ligament sprain. This coming after 15 weeks of training, and being in the best running shape of my life.

This is a tape of my singing my heart out shortly after the event wondering if my dreams of running a marathon are crushed....


At first I thought, "You know what Jake, you are the F*ing kid...if anyone can rebound from this it's going to be you." Well today, just days after the injury I decided that I really couldn't afford to lose time since I'm on a running program, I need to get back on the horse, ya know?

So I decided I would get out there and try to limp out 3 miles....this picture below was the result after completing mile 2.
I then picked myself back up and limp-jogged home like a pansy for all those on the road to see. Listen, for those of you that know me, you know that I'm out of my mind. I can't handle injuries like this at all....after 15 weeks of running in the Summer it looks like it's all going to be for nothing, and that makes me extremely violent.

I'm crying out to all of you, give me some hope. Tell me some tricks to help heal wounds / run longer injured. Give me some F*ing magic out there. I'm supposed to go on a 10 mile run this Saturday and I can barely walk. Is my dream over? Does anyone care? Do people think I'm quitting? Am I losing my mind? Is TO ever going to win a Super Bowl? Should you ever pitch to Albert Pujols? What's the meaning of life? Someone help me....


-J "Insane Asylum" Perk

Opposite Ends of the Spectrum

When you are confronted on a daily basis with athletes who dominate the news on all fronts, your opinion can go two ways: sick of them or love them.

I love this dude:



I don't think I could ever get sick of SHAQ and his little antics. He's a beast on the court, on twitter, in entertainment and life in general.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Brett Favre. Jake and Jared's boy finally hung it up (again) today. I don't even need to tell you how sick I am of this. Because by this point, even Brett's staunchest supporters are sick of this little back and forth game. I respect you as a player Brett, you were a gamer, a good teammate and a pretty good guy. You had a cannon arm and always wanted to win. It's not your fault you were slurped by the media and turned into some type of deity. These are the nicest things I'll ever say about you. No please, pleasssseee, stay away, bro.

-Also, on an unrelated note, you need to see Alfonso Soriano's celebration after hitting a walkoff grand slam last night. Guy did about 3-4 different celebrations., including the vaunted "hand over the face can't see me," and took forev to round the bases. Since MLB is chooch about footage, you can't see him absolutely pimp it, chill in the box, point to the dugout and flip the bat. all of that is on ESPN's footage. But, you can still catch the end of the celebration on the Cubbie's MLB site.

--Nick

Remember Black Boxes?

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State of the Union and Death of Another Icon

First off, I just want to let you know that I have been battling a mother F'n brutal computer virus for the past two weeks. Ever since the Asher Roth -Kid Cudi concert two weeks ago when my drunken ass tried downloading the Cudi mixtape, only I got risssskky and used a random torrent website. Big. Mistake.

A few days later whenever I used my computer i would be randomly teabagged with a random audio clip, ranging from an auto commercial to a song to a women doing stand up comedy, I got drilled with literally everything. And it wasn't just during the day. I found myself blindly hitting away at my computer trying to find the "mute" button after being startled in the middle of the night with a commercial bumppppinnnn...sweet way to wake up right?

Well eventually, Wolfie helped me download a few different anti-spyware programs, including the SUPER Anti-Spyware program, which I highly recommend. The virus -- hopefully, knock on wood -- has subsided. But I've never been through such an annoying yet dece funny ordeal. It didn't do anything to the performance of my computer really, but it was so stupid and annoying. And the same time, when a rando Mike Jack song hits you when you're in the middle of something, sometimes you can't help but laugh...

-On to a much bigger story this week. In the Summer of Death (from MJ and Billy Mays, to Farrah Fawcett and The Sun) we've lost yet another legend. This pop culture icon will be forever remembered for four simple words: "Yo Quiero Taco Bell."

That's right, tragically at the age of 15 (or 105 in dog years) Gidget aka the Taco Bell Chihuahua, passed away last week.




Gidget brought Taco Bell millions and presumable made himself a nice little doggy living, spending his latter years lounging poolside in the sun (seriously) without a Gordita or a Chalupa in site. Not only did Gidget represent the face of a franchise, but the pint-sized pooch bridge racial gaps, connecting Mexicans and Americans everywhere, while also providing new ammo for people making jokes about small Chihuahuas.

At least I'm not the only person who has noticed:




Even the Hollywood community has reached out:




In other news, the blog will more than likely slow down on Friday. If you haven't heard, we'll be throwing a little bash Friday night on the roofdeck of the Baseball Tavern. I was going to advertise here Barstool style, but looks like we already are gonna have tons of people. Holler at me if you are not on Facebook. I didn't expect the outpouring of response we got. Wish I had time to make blog shirts or something. I mean, I was nervous about even getting the necessary 50 people. Turns out I'm not a loser.

In fact, when I saw the feedback, I felt a lot like this:




--Nick

Music Monday Part 2

Maino - "BK BK BK"
IF the beat sounds familiar that's because it's over 50 Cen'ts "OK, alright" track that came out in the last few months....sad that im taking Maino over Fif now.


Chamillionare - "Show Me The Money"
My boyyyyyyiiiii



Remember wher ya heard it first.


-J Perk

UFL: Underrated or Chooch?

I feel like the UFL -- the United Football League -- is such a secret thing.

It's a little underrated that there will be another professional football league in America this year, no? I'm not saying it's any competition for the NFL, but I don't even think Arena is playing this year, plus it's during the NFL season, just during Thursday and Friday nights.

Remember the XFL? Failed after 1 year, but I actually loved that shit. Tommy Maddux was my dude. Ended up winning the MVP and then coming over to the NFL the next year and killin it for a bit with the Steelers.

The thing with the XFL was that it was just a little too gimmicky. Stuff like the bull-rush instead of the coin toss was a little too much. Could a league succeed if it planned regular ball -- 11v11, outdoors, 100-yard field -- and just altered some of the NFL's shitty rules? Perhaps. I'd love to see excessive celebrations and defenders actually able to hit the quarterback again, but that's just me.

Actually, I just did some digging and found three major rule differences between the UFL and NFL:

1) No 'tuck' rule

2) Both teams get to possess the ball in overtime

3) No intentional grounding

The first and third don't do much for me. But I LOVE the second one.

Plus I just love to watch pro ball. Hey, I did say I sweated the NFL. With just four teams, the UFL could still have a decent level of talent. Say what you want about JP Losman, but that's a decent name to get over there to start. At least we all know him.

The only major problem I see is the organization. A lot of team-building (in the literal sense) needs too take place before the season opens in October. They had a draft in August all ready, but are going to wait until after NFL training camps to scoop up players who got cut. Plus the players drafted by the league in June was like you and your buddies getting together and fake drafting the best of the players you think wouldn't catch on in the NFL this year. The only difference being the UFL can contact them and see if they want to play.

"Uhh, hey, we just drafted your rights for this new league. Wanna play?" That's pretty much how it goes.

Some of the "marquee" names from the draft: DB Adam Archuleta, QB Brian Johnson, QB Brooks Bollinger, DB Mike Doss, CB DeJuan Tribble (BC alum), and my favorite, TE Jermaine Wiggins.

But my favorite part about the league is the coaches. I don't know how much money they paid Jim Fassel, but the Las Vegas coach is pretty much the face of the league. Facing off against him will be Ted Cotrell in New York, Jim Haslett in Orlando, and hopefully providing us with a slew of new Coors Light commercials, Dennis Green in San Francisco.

I like leagues that keep people in work and give dudes a second chance. He Hate Me, anyone? That's a good story, right? Maybe I'm reaching here....

Anyway, vote in the poll to the right if you think it's underrated that there will be a new football league this year or if, like the XFL, it's pretty chooch and won't get off the ground.

--Nick

Music Monday Part 1

This first song is obviously a no doubter.....

Jay-Z feat. Rihanna and Kanye West - "We Run This Town"
F I R E.


Teairra Marie feat. Kanye West and Ma$e
Hey I'm trying to bring back Ma$e so get used to seeing his stuff on here every week if he is featured on one song....yeah and I guess Kanye is on both of these songs too, oh wel. What's wrong, like too much fire?



-J Perk

This is infinitely more cool than it is dorky...

Some genius combined my two favorite, but secret (not so secret) things.

Wu-Tang Lego: Da Mystery of Chessboxin' from davo on Vimeo.

10 Things I Think I Learned This Summer - Party Edition

1. Sev still has it.

The legend that is William Severino has returned this summer and he still has it. Luckily he toned down the physicality and now just pwns people mentally/socially. Need to get in somewhere? Have Sev talk to the door guy. He will tell him how good he looks, that he can tell he changed up his workout plan, etc etc. Next you will be in wherever you wanted and the said bouncer will hug Sev and light his cigarettes for him. One night we see Steve Levy at the Tavern and I tell Sev that hes sort of a big deal to the 18-34 male demo considering he feeds us our sports news and highlights. Half hour later I see Levy dying laughing at Sevs jokes and hugging him. Sev calls me over and the owner of the bar buys us all shots. This isn't an attempt at bragging either, its an attempt to show you that this stuff is normal if you unleash Sev in a social setting. Actually Ill give you a couple more examples....

One night we tried to hail a cab to a different bar but had too many people to fit. We were just about to start walking when Sev says he has an idea. I see him start walking towards a giant party trolley parked outside of a bar. Im like "Sev, nah dude dont, waste of time". A minute later we are getting waved over. The driver of the trolley loved Sev and tells us the kids hes driving that night are treating him like an asshole. Sev asks him how much it would cost to drive the blogfathers across the city to a different bar. The guy thinks about it and says... "20 bucks and you can drink the beers that are on board because I dont like those kids", Deal bro. Two minutes later Sev has the strobe light on, music blasting, even got the smoke machine working, all while we are cheersing beers and wine. This would only happen with Sev.

Last weekend, late night, Sev tells me hes been working on a way to get free food whenever you want. Im like "Wwwwhat bro?". What kind of statement is that? He tells me to just watch and whatever I do, do not pull out my wallet. We hit a McRonalds and Sev orders. We get to the window and Sev gives the guy his atm card. The guy swipes it and says he needs a pin number. Sev could have won an emmy with the conversation that followed. Just put it this way, Sev has the guy convinced McD's credit card machine is broken and is directing him which wires to wiggle as the guy is on his knees behind the machine. When that doesn't work, the guy gives up, apologizes to Sev and hands him the food for free. Pwnage.

2. Hard alcohol will crundle you. Especially Vodka Redbull.

Yea, we've all known this for about 10 years now but it needs to be reiterated. Beer? I'm having a good time, naturally pacing myself through sheer volume of fluids. Vodka Redbull? Patron? I literally black out and end up in strange locations. Luckily I didn't get punched out or arrested this summer (jinxed it??), but I very well could have. Last night I was drinking coronas until Gordie buys me one Vodka Redbull. Fast forward to me stumbling in my front door at 6:30 am. What an evil combination of beverages. I bet thats what Satan drinks.

3. In This Economy....

Honestly, the economy blows, we know this. But is it a great excuse to not go 100% on sending out resumes? Yes. The above phrase has destroyed any stigma or shame attached to being unemployed. Its just acceptable now. I also think that deep down we kinda like how insane it is. Its like surviving a historical hurricane that you know you'll get to brag about later. The only problem is that you might be bragging to your kids as they have to wear the 4 stripe adidas imitation clothes because you cant afford the realness.

4. Dont EVER pitch to Pujols

Under any circumstance, you just dont do it. If you do he will just hit it out. End of story.

5. Be frugal if you are going to party a lot.

Grab a money clip and bring the amount of cash you want to spend plus your license with you. Leave the plastic at home. You will be amazed how well this works. I learned this the hard way as I put rounds of patron on my card one night that I do not remember drinking, cool.

6. Jake and Nick are nuts.

These kids are just insane. BU editor / super student? Grad degree from a high powered business school? These kids are as crazy and obnoxious as any high school drop out. I would give you examples but the cops would probably come knocking and Richie wouldn't be friends with them.

7. Don't use technology if you are hammered.

Drunk dials will make you cringe the next day. Just have it in your mind before you start drinking that you will not call anyone after 1am. Also, do not jump on your computer when you get home, just go to bed dude. Some of you might remember my "killer bees and bumble bees" post from a few months ago.



8. Throw parties.

Us blogfathers sort of made a pact to each throw a rip this summer. They all happened to end up in July. My house on the 4th was so sweet thanks to you guys. We had an incredible time at Jake's but the weather dampened the fun a little. Now get ready for the roofdeck rip Williams is throwing next Friday. Mixing in parties thrown by your friends is so great. Its cheap, you are guaranteed laughs and its pretty much custom made fun with no last call.

9. Party ingredients/essentials.

For our home town, you need three things to have a fuggin rip. Sev, Cheryl, and a DJ (preferably with a microphone so we can freestyle and make fools of ourselves). Thats really it. Sev is a natural entertainer, Cheryl will make sure something crazy happens, and the DJ will fuel it all.

10. Don't smell Sev's cologne.

Because when you lean in to do it, he will kiss you on the lips and call you a fag. RLOL. Just ask my uncle John, Loom, FC, and millions of other victims. I feel bad warning you but at this point I think most of us know to watch out.


-Wolfie a.k.a. The Daniel Day Lewis of Blogging

This song will play directly before my wedding toast...

Yes I know it might be a little corny and obviously a rip off of "I'm on a boat," but IF and WHEN I ever get hitched, direcetly before my best man (im still taking resumes for this honor) toasts the kid, this will play....




-The Creator, Founder, and Originator...J Pizzle.

It's Friday my people....

First of all aren't Friday's the best day? I'm in such a good mood for no other reason than it is a Friday. So let's get into some random things...

$1.2 Billion worth of weed seized in California - Oh yeah dude how about this little treat news story. Apparently the authorities founds this much marijuana growing in the mountains of California...which leads me to the question HOW THE HELL DID $1.2 Billion WORTH OF POT PLANTS GO UNDISCOVERED FOR THIS LONG??? And who the hell is stupid enough to grow that much weed out in the open..!?!? They are saying 318,000 plants were found, and that they were most likely set up by Mexican drug Cartels. Why aren't there any ill Cartels in the Americas? I want to be in a Cartel so bad....This is what the Fresno County Sheriff had to say:

"You can imagine looking from a helicopter down onto a forest, there are a lot of different shades of green. It took some specially trained personnel to spot where the marijuana was growing," Mims said. "We found it planted on hillsides and gullies, and some of the plants had grown to be eight feet tall."

I know what your thinking...I didn't know Hip-Hop sensation Mims was a sheriff in Fresno either, crazzzy. Good thing those specially trained personnel could spot those tricky weed plants bigger than Shaq.

In case you didn't see this and care to Chicago White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle threw a perfect game yesterday afternoon, marking the 18th time it's happened in Major League Baseball History. This catch in the top of the 9th inning helped to make it possible....incredible.
(Video was definitely taken down by MLB so click HERE for to watch the catch..it's worth it trust me.)
I'm sure I'll get at you clowns again later today....Party On.


-The TRUE BlogFather, #11 in your programs, #1 in your hearts, J-"The Kid Is Back.com" Perk

Race Issues Still Exist..

For once maybe in this blog's 6 month history, we'll attempt some level of seriousness. The ongoing, back-and-forth race exploits stemming from the recent incident in Cambridge is an issue that needs to be addressed.

For those unaware of recent news events, what went down was this:

Cambridge police received a call from a neighbor this week that a (black) man was attempting to jimmy the lock of a front door on Ware St. Sargent James Crowley (white) reported to the scene at which point Henry Louis Gates, a prominent Black Rights activists and distinguished Harvard professor, was already in the house, which turned to be -- you guessed it -- his own house.

Gates had just returned from a trip from China and according to reports was either locked out or struggling with the lock.

When police arrived and confronted Gates inside his home, they stated that Gates had initially refused to show identification. When Gates was told that Crowley was investigating a possible break in, Gates then stated, "Why, because I'm a black man in America?" When Gates repeated a request for Crowley's name, Crowley replied that he would only speak to Gates outside. Crowley stated that he desired to go outside at that time as "Gates was yelling very loud [sic] and the acoustics of the kitchen and foyer were making it difficult for me to transmit pertinent information to EEC or other responding units".

Gates then followed Crowley from the house onto the porch, yelling at him and Crowley arrested him for disorderly conduct. Charges were eventually dropped on recommendation by Cambridge police and the city of Cambridge, calling the incident "regrettable and unfortunate."

-Now what's transpired after this has been nothing short of over dramatized attacks from the conservative right (on Crowley's side) and the black left (Gates side), blowing this up into a mega racial-profiling meets black sensationalism. Gates has demanded Crowley apologize. Crowley has refused, stating he was just doing his job. Hell, even Barak Obama chimed in during his conference for health care this week.

Obama, who is friends with Gates, said that Cambridge police "acted stupidly," further infuriating the right and police officers everywhere, who starting today are organizing silent protests via wrist bands that show their support for Crowley and rights of officers everywhere.

Phewww...how did we get this far? Or rather, how have we (as a society) still not come far enough?

People LOVE playing the race card. Whether its Gates taking offense to a standard question because of his underlying feelings against whites or Crowley and whites everywhere sick and tired of any action they take that a black doesn't like deemed racists.

The truth, as always, lies somewhere in the middle of these two sides, who, of course, are playing each other as the fool to further promote their own cause.

Firs of all, how dumb is this fuckin "neighbor." You seriously don't know who lives next to you? Especially when it's a dece famous Harvard guy who is boys with Obama? Get outta here. Secondly, it's very simple: Gates, an ultra-proud black man who judging by some of his comments probably harbors some very nasty feelings toward whites, most likely the result of years of being treated differently, something that I'll never understand.

Crowley, meanwhile, had to answer the call. He was probably upset the way Gates flipped and decided he was going to arrest this guy. Why do you think he wanted to "speak with him outside?" Well, you can't arrest a guy for disorderly conduct when he's in his own house. Hard to disturb the public in your home. But that has probably more to do with him being a cop (aka: an entitled dickhead) then anything with race.

Did Gates being black have something to do with it? OF COURSE! It probably influenced the person who called police and more importantly, had Gates been white or Crowley been black, this incident never leaves the doorstep of the house, a fact that speaks to both the immature actions of both Crowley AND Gates.

In a society where Big Ben Roethlisberger is charged for rape and ESPN chooses not to report it (they finally caved into pressure and did yesterday), citing the fact that it''s a civil suit, yet the network had previously reported on OJs exploits and the accusation that Sandy Alomar Jr. had AIDS (doesn't get much more civil than that), there sometimes seems to be double standards. This is human nature and it's unavoidable.

People need to chill on race and realize people are inherently different and do not HAVE to get along. I mean, I don't walk around in black neighborhoods expected to be treated like I'm fuckin Sammy Davis Jr. But you don't see me complaining. I just know that, or at least feel that way. The same way blacks feel uneasy traveling in a car through ultra-white neighborhoods. Both isntances are wrong, but sometimes it's unavoidable. Black, Whites, Asians, Hispanics all have cultural differences. It's OK. Years ago, you didn't even see Italians and Irishmen get along. People roll with their own crews. Back int he days of tribes, you didn't just roll through another tribe and expect them to accept you. You'd get bundled. Same reason I wouldn't stroll through Harlem trying to make conversation. Most likely, those people wouldn't like me there.

People are normally more comfortable around their own. It's not necessarily racism, it's just human nature. And the fact that these two dudes had a scuffle, probably had more to do with the pig-headedness of both than ANYTHING to do with race.

--Nick

Because I Love You Guys..

And to make up for the slow day, I'll give you a little something before you hit the sack or for when you hit the cubicle tomorrow...

-You know who I'm f'n sick of? The stupid old guy in the Six Flags commercials. If I hear "More Flags, More Fun!!" in that lil crit voice of his, I might have to return to Six Flags New England and steal another push pop with my boy, Climo. (Yea we were banned for a while.)

Seriously though, this is one of the Top 5 Choochiest people on television. This ad campaign is so annoying to me. Nothing says Six Flags like a ridiculous old person that's more than likely played by a younger actor with shit loads of makeup, which would hopefully explain his weird ass face. Guy makes me cringe:




-The "drunk bro grapple" is one the best/worst things you can see at a bar. Extremely common, it's tough to notice normally, unless of course you are one of the few (only) sober individuals in the house, which I sometimes am at the bar I work at. Anyway, ever notice that there are some guys who get real touchy and into fake fighting when they are wasted? This male on male grope session, 90% of the time involving one hand each on the other persons biceps while the other person battles back with the forearm grab, can be referred to as the drunk bro grapple.

It usually leads to a little jockeying back and forth and maybe a headlock or a few gay fake punches to the stomach later. Under normal circumstances one party usually hates the grabiness of the super-drunk bro (usually in a pink shirt or some sort of pop-collared ensemble). Either way, I hate being around this person. So sweaty and all over you. Stop touching me, bro.

-Just got in from a night out with Jake. Bought him a few shots and he disappeared. No clue where he went or what he was up to, but luckily one of my boys followed him and recorded his actions. Don't let this man drink:

--Nick aka the Blogfather

Am I A Tony BROmo for liking these songs?

I think that the answer from the blogosphere is going to be a resounding yes...but sometimes you just have to man up and show people who you really are. Yes I love hip-hop...I love it. I live for hearing new ill rap songs....but sometimes even I get sick of hearing the same type of beats. So here are two songs that I will not turn off when they come on the radio....JUDGE ME.



Andddd this oneeeeeeeeee....



Which of these two babes is better looking BTW? Katy Perry might be more curvy but I'm definitely taking T Swift.

Also my bad on not posting a deal this Thursday....pretty sure none of you really read/like it anyways. But if I see something good tomorrow I will throw it up there for sure. Nothing really struck me today, I apologize.


-J Perk

Thursday Throwback: Snap Pants

(Every Thursday WKFTB will bring you a throwback, something that reminds us of our late-80s-early-90s childhood. Today's edition: Snap Pants.).

One of the most prolific items of our youth, snap pants were a clothing phenomenon rivaling only breakthrough items like the visor and the two-piece bathing suit.

Seemingly doing more with the less, the principle of snap pants was simple: an item that could be worn as pants, but had enough air flow and ease of removal that it was practically like you were wearing shorts.

And oh, don't EVER forget to wear the shorts underneath. Especially at school. Because otherwise, with all the punks running around snapping off your pants behind your back, your wang was playing peek-a-boo with the rest of the school. Shorts underneath were key. Some of us had to find out the hard way about this.

That really was the biggest issue with snap pants, and perhaps one of the reasons they faded away -- people could own you in ways that "pantsing" never could.

For some reason, adidas corned the market in snap pants. Sure there was Puma, Nike and the various no-name brands, but adidas really had a choke hold on the competition. The white and black snaps were easily the most common.

Flinging these off before a basketball or soccer game or even gym class was a common occurrence. But at some point, we all just realized that, they, maybe we can afford the 10 seconds it takes to change from sweats to shorts and not risk cold bursts of air on our legs or even worse, a snap job that leaves us in our boxers in the lunch line.

--Nick

Cudi interview on Karmaloop

I believe this was conducted right after the HOB show.

More Sox News - Lugo for Duncan

Per Rotoworld

According to Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the Cardinals have acquired shortstop Julio Lugo for outfielder Chris Duncan.

Cardinals are not responsible for the $13.5 million that remains on Lugo's contract. Boston Red Sox are eating that money. The Red Sox just wanted to get something in return for Lugo.

I gotta say I love this. Maybe just because we actually got something for Lugo. Duncan can hit and we needed BATS. Duncan had a good 2007, injury plagued 08 and hasn't really got it going in 09. No real downside here though. Good work today Theo.

What does this mean? Kotsay is probably gone. Don't be surprised if Saito or a BP arm get moved soon too. Laroche platoons with Lowell and Duncan is Papi/OF insurance in AAA.

A Tribute to....Erin Andrews

Yup, you guessed it, Erin Andrews had to be the tribute this week. I guess it doesn't really make sense for us to pay tribute to her with pictures since most of you have already seen her naked. The question that we all need to ask ourselves however is how did these videos come about? Did Erin know that they were being taken as she was strutting naked? Or did she know that they were creepily filmed of her without her knowledge but still allowed them to be leaked? And also most importantly are we really impressed by these videos? Don't get me wrong, I am no one to judge other people's appearances as I am no Brad Pitt myself, but Erin Andrews body is nothing that can't be found in any low budget porno film. I love you Erin, I'm just saying....Blogfather Nick actually sent me an article today which talked of two peep hole tapes being uncovered and the notion that it's an "inside job," meaning someone who works closely with her and knows her schedule is behind these creep tapes.

Whatever the case is, I'm not trying to hate on Erin here, she is the hottest in the major broadcast sideline game for sure. She deserves this tribute for sure.....so go on with your naked self Erin, because let's face it, the next time anyone sees you on camera they are all going to be thinking of you naked.


-J Perk

LeBron Dunk Video(s)

Not one, but TWO videos released today of the infamous Jordan Crawford dunk over LeBron. Honestly, not too impressed with either.

The first one is TMZ's video, which is from the far end of the court and mad blurry. I kind of love the guy's reaction though.

Click the picture above or here to watch.

The second video literally just came out like 10 minutes ago and I somehow lucked across it doing a search. It's MUCH clearer and from the closer end of the court.

Click here to see it.

Overall thoughts: The hype and secrecy involved here made this dunk impossible to live up to our expectations. How did these videos just get out, though? TMZ and Ebaum just pay tons on the same day? Who knows. I guess in the long run, Nike doesn't look so bad, because now the footage is out and they can just be like "see, that wasn't even that bad." But their reaction was just plain ridiculous. Must have been great live though -- you can tell from the crowd noise -- seeing a young kid go over Bron like that. Glad he got his fame now.

Any thoughts?

---Nick

BREAKING NEWS: Sox Acquire LaRoche

Cleary influenced by yesterday's WKFTB post below, Theo Epstein and the Red Sox brass swung a deal for Pittsburgh first baseman Adam LaRoche -- the ill one -- today.

It's being reported by multiple outlets, all citing the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

LaRoche is in the final year of his contract, which pays him $7 million this season. It's not clear if he'll play first with Lowell going back to the DL or just fill in. Probably a little bit of first against RHP I'm guessing, maybe DH when Ortiz needs a rest.

Sox reportedly are sending two prospects, believed to be shortstop Argenis Diaz and pitcher Hunter Strickland. Who? Exactly. I've heard of Diaz actually but he's nothing special. Basically we got him for free for the next few months.

LaRoche is currently hitting .247 with 12 homers and 40 RBI.

Note: I love this trade. Didn't have to give up much and we take a flier on a player who notoriously heats up in the second half (career second-half OPS: .901). He can spell Youk and Lowell by playing first and can even DH for Papi. He's a dece power bat who is patient and sees a lot of pitches. I can't stress to you how happy I am. we now have insurance outside of Mark Kotsay.

Another Note: This just cements the fact that when you need a player, just phone Pittsburgh dude. Oh you need someone for the stretch run but don't wanna give up anyone good? Pirates got your covered. We snagged JBay last year, Braves needed an OF this year so pwned for McClouth. Just get whoever you want.

---Nick

Demanding Change

As the trade deadline approaches, you can now break Sox fans down into two distinct groups.

The yahoo fans want Roy Halladay. The impatient and worry-wart fans want another bat. I’m definitely in the latter group.

An argument can always – and will probably – be made that the Sox bats will come around. But that argument is getting tougher to make. Even for the yahoos.

Here are some of the facts:

-The Sox have scored 10 runs in four games since the All-Star break.

-The Red Sox team OPS has declined each and every month since the start of the season.

-They are hitting .227 in August with an OBP of .319.

Again, these are facts here. They cannot be refuted so save your breath with some sort of circular argument about how the offense will be fine. There are too many aging parts (Ortiz, Lowell, Vartiek) and no solution at shortstop. The numbers look OK actually: fourth in the AL in runs, third in OBP, fourth in slugging, third in OPS and fourth in home runs.

But anyone who watches all the games knows that the majority of the time, when the Red Sox lose, they lose because they couldn’t score five or six times. Losses of the 4-1, 5-2, and 3-1 variety have become very common. In past years, we’ve grown accustomed (spoiled) to the Sox always being a threat to put up 7-8 runs a game, usually averaging close to 6 runs per contest.

Of course this team does have better pitching and better pitching lessens the need to score. But why not have both? Why not go the extra mile and secure a solid bat to take the club to the next level? Like Barak Obama, I’m demanding change.

This is a big market team with an annual goal to win championships. This isn’t the Pirates or Marlins. Don’t make excuses for a franchise that charges the second highest ticket prices in the game. You’re paying top dollar for tickets. You sit next to fake fans with pink hats and business clients on their cell phones while waiting in “lotteries” for playoff tickets and being asked to pay a few to join Red Sox Nation all because of ownership’s constant quest to expand the fanbase and squeeze out every last dollar from your pocket.

It is your right to demand a championship squad. What’s a few more million? One or two prospects gone? You can’t play all these prospects when they’re ready. Eventually you’ll get a Clay Buchholtz. A major league ready pitcher throwing seeds in the minors, forced into limbo as a result of an organization both too nervous to trade him, yet too stubborn to trade the veteran blocking him. In economic terms, this is called wasting valuable assets.

And don’t talk to me about the money. This isn’t your money. Or mine. Or maybe it is, since we shell out $30 for hats and $7.50 for beers? Still, don’t feel bad for the Sox or John Henry. You should WANT them to spend money. Stop being a team apologist and accepting your too-white, no flash, little thump team as is. Real fans want more. New York fans know this. Fans of the premiership certainly know this. Man U fans don’t laud the club owners for making money by giving up Ronaldo. Instead they ask: Who the F are you getting to replace him?

You should do this too! We can get good players. We have an abundance of pitching and plenty of money. Remember the scuffling offense in the ALCS against Tampa Bay last year? I do. Failing to make a move for another bat last year may have cost us the World Series. That shouldn’t happen. We need to go above and beyond. I’m not saying do anything stupid or irrational.

But let’s not just settle on Mark Kotsay as an insurance policy. How about Garrett Atkins? Or better yet, Victor Martinez? Would they be nice in uniform? JD Drew has been struggling. How’s Brad Hawpe look to you? All these players are available at the right price.

And if you’re the Red Sox, at some point you have to be willing to pay it.

--Nick

The Moon is 40 Years Old.

Not really, I know it's like 200 years old or something. But today commemorates the 40th anniversary of the day the United States manifest destinied the moon. I used to think the moon was China when I was little, sounds dumb, but I wasn't all that incorrect considering it was actually Soviet Russia. Anyway, this is a pretty big deal so this is my youtube tribute to the moon since I have no original thoughts to contribute. This is also dedicated to the all kids that always watched nickelodeon's Legends of the Hidden Temple in hopes of one day competing and winning a trip to space camp.

This is the actual landing of the moon, but without all the fake voice redubbing they did back in the 60s...we all know this is how anyone would react to being on the effing moon.



The Making of Buzz Aldrin's Moon Rap --I posted this a couple of weeks ago and eff'd up, but I found a youtube version and I still think it is worth everyone's time.



This is a news reel as if this moonwalking occured today.

Summer Treat Series Volume 3

The Outdoor/Beach bar. Nothing screams Summer like being blackout drunk outside in nature just as God intended....

I was recently out in Plymouth with some of my homeys when I realized why every bar that is either outside, or on the water is so succesful. It really boils down to the following things....

1. Being outside is just flat out better. You can't tell me that being outside on a nice night doesn't put you in a good mood...because it F*ing does. Partying outside is one of Summer's greatest assets, so why wouldn't you want to be outside blackout drunk stumbling around???? I mean if you need to puke you can just hit up some corner of the deck, lean over, and unleash the dragon all over the bushes....perfect.

2. It brings out the biddies, and for some reason they're all fire. Me and my boy Retta had to go up to girls with imaginary fire extinguishers and put out the flames this past weekend at Cabby Shack, granted all the girls thought we were weird creeps and it was an epic fail, but still, the girls were all so awesome to look at. I guess you really just can't be ugly and go to a beach/outdoor type bar, it's just the lay of the land. I mean if your a guy you can do whatever you want(which is why I was there), but girls know better.....

3. Similar to point 2, but sooo different at the same time....Cougars. They are an absolute staple to these types of establishments. The warm weather attracts the older women like you wouldn't believe, and for some reason they all love you. Your the funniest kid to them, and they want to take you home and make sweet love to you...or at least that's what I think whenever I see one. I think they are also drawn in by the next item on the list....

4. Live Bands. For some reason they kill it at these bars...the Cougs all love it, and after a few beers even I will be singing Bon Jovi's "Living on a Prayer" at the top of my lungs. I mean who doesn't want to hear "Don't Stop Believing" as your gagging back puke trying to talk to a nice little dipset from the rich town next door telling her in the area because your playing in the Cape Cod Baseball League....

Let's all face it, the girls are better, the music is better, and the beer just tastes better when your partying in a place like Plymouth. I've already made my way to a few of these places this Summer and they have yet to let me down. So when you head out this weekend, grab a 6 pack of twisted teas and drink them on the way to the nearest outdoor bar of your choice...tell em The Kid sent ya. (It will mean nothing, and you will probably get a weird look, but I always wanted to say something like that). OH, and don't fake fire extinguish girls....as ill as it is in your head, they will hate it.

-J Perk

It's Back: Movie Monday

Doind these a little different, so read it, biatch. Starting with a few things you should know first then getting into a few trailers and random comments. Not as offical/boring as before (hopefully).

-True Blood’s season premiere had 3.7 million viewers, making it the most watched HBO show since the Sopranos finale.

-In addition to his role in the next X-Men movie, Ryan Reynolds has signed on to play the Green Lantern. Should be fire.

-Michael Jackson has dominated album sales since his death. He’s sold 2.3 million albums in the US and 9 million globally. The first week after he died, his albums sold 422,000 strong on iTunes alone. Wayyoo.

-Ryan Seacrest signed a FAT deal to remain with American Idol. Is 3 years, $45 mill dece? Guy got Jason Bay money. Paula Abdul is rumored to possibly be at odds over her contract. Whole crew has to re-up on deals so there’s a nice chance one won’t be back.

OK so thanks to friend and blog reader Matty D, the Blogfathers were supposed to see a screening for Judd Apatow’s Funny People tonight. Good idea, right? Too bad about 500 other people had the same thought. And that’s not even too much of an exaggeration. I’m saying if the theatre holds 200-300, there was about another 200 that were sent home, including our crew. You aren’t guaranteed a seat at these things, but usually getting to one an hour before is plenty early. Not the case here.

I didn’t realize these was such a buzz/demand for this film, but like Wolfe said, in a rather disappointing summer movie season, people must be looking for a gem from Apatow. He’ll prolly deliver. I know most of you have seen it, but I’ll throw up the longer, iller version here:



Here are a few other big movies to look forward to:

NEW District 9 Trailer:
A few weeks ago in my last movie post, I gave you a sneak trailer of District 9, Peter Jackson’s baby he’s been working on after the doomed Halo project fell through. The short trailer left a lot to the imagination, no coincidentally since the majority of the marketing for this movie has been viral (ie: Cloverfield). Picture you can hook me in with any type of mystery/sci-fi chaos and a viral marketing campaign. I’ll go 100%. And if I wanted to go before, I DEF do now after seeing this.

If you liked the mystery, then don’t watch this trailer. Although I had to re-watch it because I swore I saw like two dudes from Transformers in there:



Surrogates
Release Date: September 25
I dunno…am I like feeling this? A little sci-fci, a little chaos, a little Bruce Willis being crazy? It has all the right ingredients for a bad but awesome movie that I could enjoy. It’s like I-Robot meets Minority Report meets Sixth Sense. And, damn, I sweated all those movies.



Shutter Island
Release Date: October 2
Wow a scary movie from Scorsese? Shot in Boston? Starring Leo? Count me in for this. Can’t wait for this shit for real. I think ever since Boondock Saints, Boston became a tight setting for badass movies. It really helps your image in out-of-state settings when people who haven’t been to Mass. associate you with Mystic River, Gone Baby Gone and Departed. Sorry about Fever Pitch, though. Our bad.



Sherlock Holmes
Release Date: December 25
You’d like to stop Robert Downey Jr. a little bit. But you can’t. Between this and next spring’s Iron Man 2, Downey – much like Vince from Entourage – has completed his comeback. Add in Jude Law and a sexy as ever Rachael McAdams and this looks pretty legit. They must be pumping this hard for the full trailer to be out this early. The Christmas Day release too. Def gonna be sick of this trailer by like mid October.



--Nick

Music Monday Part 2

You really have to ask yourself....Is this the Summer of being back????

Nelly ft. Diddy - "1000 Stacks"
Hey say what you wan't to say about Nelly...but no one makes me want to dance more than him.


And since I know the original version was such a hit....here is the remix

French Montana - New York Minute (Remix) (feat. Jadakiss, Lil Cease, Mic Geronimo & N.O.R.E.)


-J Perk

Music Monday Part 1

Let's get into some new shit....

Billy Blue ft. Akon - "Story of my life"
This dude reminds me a little bit of a more thuggish Juvenile....and Akon on the hooks is a recipe for sucess.


This next one isn't really my style....but I want to see what you all think

Beastie Boys + Nas - "Too Many Rappers"


Part 2 later on...


-J Perk

Speechless

holy. shit.



spencer talks rap

the video below this post is very ill. its almost sacrilegious to post pratt after that. lupe is too good btw.

2 Posts in 1 day, this is really happening.

This video is old, the song is older. but i cannot stop listening/watching it. Happy Friday, get hyphy.

Coping with the Loss of a Gloved One.

I apologize for the flagrant wordplay, but I couldn't resist. Anyway, so it's been 3 weeks since MJ passed away. Even heartless people like myself are still painfully mourning the loss. It's been emotionally draining. I still weep inconsolably 1-2 times a day listening to "Man in the Mirror" and spend all my hard earned dollar bills at the bar, not on delicious bevs but on the juke box making sure song after song is Micheal...it's rough, but it's called giving back, guys.

So, I found this website that helps people like me and you cope with MJ's untimely departure. I suggest refreshing the page 7-13 times a day. and definitely bookmark the shit out of this site, because idk about you, but I can never spell "micheal" correctly. I've also found that watching Free Willy helps soothe the pain.

www.ismichaeljacksonstillalive.com


-Kate
"Help me help you"

Video Day Continues...

Dunno, kinda love Gerry Dee now.



And more on Williams story about the Giant Calamari.



I always wonder about giant squid. You hear all these rumors (trumors) about some being 200 feet long and shit. There are oil paintings of them swallowing boats whole and all that. Maybe you even get a pic of some japanese fishing boat recovering a huge dead one. Im pretty sure we should know more about these mythic creatures.