Kathy Coffman-Lee requested the plate "ILVTOFU" she says it's because she loves tofu, but it could also be read as "I love to eff you" or "I love to fuck."
Monday, April 13, 2009
Horny Vegan
A Colorado woman had her desired vanity plate rejected by the Department of Motor Vehicles because it could "be misinterpreted."
Kathy Coffman-Lee requested the plate "ILVTOFU" she says it's because she loves tofu, but it could also be read as "I love to eff you" or "I love to fuck."
Kathy Coffman-Lee requested the plate "ILVTOFU" she says it's because she loves tofu, but it could also be read as "I love to eff you" or "I love to fuck."
Sasha and Malia Finally Get Their Dog
The Obamas adopted a 6-month old Portuguese Water Dog which I’m very happy about it. I love those two little girls, and I think every house (even one as big and important as the White House) needs to have a dog. But a couple things about the way they handled it annoy me.
Note: Pretty much everything the Obama Administration is doing annoys me. From Sanjay Gupta, to Kal Penn, to the Tonight Show to Michelle Obama on every magazine cover. And don’t even get me started on the European Apology Tour. I guess this is how liberals felt for the past 8 years.
First of all, they did not get the dog from a shelter. The whole time they indicated they would adopt a shelter dog, but instead they got him from Ted Kennedy. Second of all, they negotiated an exclusive with the Washington Post. Exclusive pictures, of a dog!
The girls named the dog Bo. Apparently this was the girls tribute to Michelle’s father. He went by the name Diddley, in honor Bo Diddley. But B-O are also the initials of Barack Obama.
Note: Pretty much everything the Obama Administration is doing annoys me. From Sanjay Gupta, to Kal Penn, to the Tonight Show to Michelle Obama on every magazine cover. And don’t even get me started on the European Apology Tour. I guess this is how liberals felt for the past 8 years.
First of all, they did not get the dog from a shelter. The whole time they indicated they would adopt a shelter dog, but instead they got him from Ted Kennedy. Second of all, they negotiated an exclusive with the Washington Post. Exclusive pictures, of a dog!
The girls named the dog Bo. Apparently this was the girls tribute to Michelle’s father. He went by the name Diddley, in honor Bo Diddley. But B-O are also the initials of Barack Obama.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Master Bates Goes Wild
Boston University stages one of the biggest comebacks in sports history. Down 2 goals with barely a minute left. In the national championship game. Imagine a team being down 14 in the Super Bowl, or down 2 runs in the bottom of the 9th in the 7th game of the World Series. Absolutely incredible. Here's the last 3 minutes, of the game, the best part starts 3:30 in.
And BU did go on to win in overtime. Congrats to the Terriers!
And BU did go on to win in overtime. Congrats to the Terriers!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
I Was Literally Cracking Up and Rolling on the Floor Laughing My Ass Off, Literally
As someone who loves too take things too literally I found this video hilarious. It's the 80s classic "Take On Me" by A-ha, except the lyrics have all been changed to literally represent that which is going on in the video.
And here's the original video for those of you love it and think the spoof version bastardizes it.
And here's the original video for those of you love it and think the spoof version bastardizes it.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Nothing Good Happens in the First Three Innings Anyway
Fox has an exclusive contract with Major Leage Baseball which gives them exclusive rights to show games between 4 and 7 pm on Saturdays.
This Saturday however the Mets Marlins game begins at 6, so the team's 2,000 ancient fans can enjoy a postgame concert and still get home early.
That means SNY is not allowed to show the first hour of the game.
I just hope we don't miss a Reyes triple.
This Saturday however the Mets Marlins game begins at 6, so the team's 2,000 ancient fans can enjoy a postgame concert and still get home early.
That means SNY is not allowed to show the first hour of the game.
I just hope we don't miss a Reyes triple.
No One Can Be That Dumb
This video reportedly comes from the birthday wishes segment on KTVO, a station in Missouri. But there's no way the anchors wouldn't have caught on eventually. It was probably a gag for the Christmas reel.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
They Always Blame the Jews
As a lover of good ethnic jokes I normally don't blink an eye when people make fun of jews for having big noses or overbearing mothers. Even cheap Jew jokes can make me laugh. But I often remind the teller the basis of those jokes is also the basis for the Holocaust. Throughout times Jews have always been targeted during times of economic distress. And now is no different. Ira Stoll writes a great piece in the Wall Street Journal about it:
"Walking down the street in my solidly upper-middle-class New York City neighborhood the other day was a neatly dressed man angrily cursing into his cell phone about "Jew Wall Street bankers."
I was headed in the opposite direction and didn't stop to interview him about his particular grievances, but the brief encounter crystallized for me a foreboding that the financial crisis may trigger a new outbreak of anti-Semitism.
It is a fear that is being articulated ever more widely. President Bill Clinton's secretary of labor, Robert Reich, frets on his blog, "History shows how effective demagogic ravings can be when a public is stressed economically." He warns that Jews, along with gays and blacks, could become victims of populist rage.
In the New York Jewish Week newspaper, a column by Rabbi Ronald Price of the Union for Traditional Judaism begins, "In the 1930s, as Germany's economy collapsed, the finger was pointed at the Jews and the Nazis ascended to power. The famous Dreyfus Affair, in which a Jew was falsely accused of treason in France, followed on the heels of economic turmoil."
At this juncture, the trepidation may yet seem like paranoia, or special pleading akin to the old joke about the newspaper headline, "World Ends in Nuclear Attack: Poor, Minorities Hardest Hit." Everyone is feeling the brunt of the recession; why worry about the Jews in particular? After all, Jews today have two refuges: Israel and America, a land where Jews have attained remarkable power and prosperity and have a constitutionally protected right to exercise their religion freely. In that case, why worry about potential danger to the Jews at all?
One answer is that the historical precedents are exceedingly grim. The causes of the First Crusade, in which thousands of Jews were murdered, are still being debated, but some historians link it to famine and a poor harvest in 1095. As for the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492, the foremost historian of its causes, Benzion Netanyahu (the father of Israel's new prime minister), writes of the desire of the persecutors "to get rid of their debts by getting rid of their creditors." More generally, he writes, "it is an iron-clad rule in the history of group relations: the majority's toleration of every minority lessens with the worsening of the majority's condition."
Lest this seem overly crude economic determinism, consider that the Jews have been victims not only of unrest prompted by economic distress but of attempts to remedy such economic distress with socialism. Take it from Friedrich Hayek, the late Nobel Prize winning Austrian economist. In "The Road to Serfdom," Hayek wrote, "In Germany and Austria the Jew had come to be regarded as the representative of Capitalism." Thus, the response in those countries, National Socialism, was an attack on both capitalism and the Jews.
There are ample indicators of current anti-Semitic attitudes. A poll conducted recently in Europe by the Anti-Defamation League found 74% of Spaniards believe Jews "have too much power in international financial markets," while 67% of Hungarians believe Jews "have too much power in the business world." Here in America, the Web site of National Journal is hosting an "expert blog" by former CIA official Michael Scheuer, now a professor at Georgetown, complaining of a "fifth column of pro-Israel U.S. citizens" who are "unquestionably enemies of America's republican experiment." And over at Yahoo! Finance, the message board discussing Goldman Sachs is rife with comments about "Jew pigs" and the "Zionist Federal Reserve."
So will the Jews come under attack? The existence of the Jewish state guarantees refuge for Jews around the world, but it carries with it its own risks. Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has said that if the Jews "all gather in Israel, it will save us the trouble of going after them world-wide." It's a comment all the more chilling as Nasrallah's Iranian sponsors are on the brink of making a nuclear bomb.
As for the idea that Jewish professional, political, and economic success in America is a guarantee of security, that, too, has its risks. As Yuri Sleskine recounted in his book "The Jewish Century," in 1900 Vienna more than half of the lawyers, doctors and professional journalists were Jewish, as were 70% of the members of the stock exchange. In Germany, after World War I but before the Nazis came to power, Jews served as finance minister and as foreign minister. Such achievements have a way of being fleeting.
It may yet be that the Jews escape the current economic crisis having only lost fortunes. But if not, there will have been no lack of warning about the threat. When Jews gather Wednesday night for the Passover Seder, we will recite the words from the Hagadah, the book that relays the Israelite exodus from slavery in Egypt: "In every generation they rise up against us to destroy us." This year, they will resonate all the more ominously."
"Walking down the street in my solidly upper-middle-class New York City neighborhood the other day was a neatly dressed man angrily cursing into his cell phone about "Jew Wall Street bankers."
I was headed in the opposite direction and didn't stop to interview him about his particular grievances, but the brief encounter crystallized for me a foreboding that the financial crisis may trigger a new outbreak of anti-Semitism.
It is a fear that is being articulated ever more widely. President Bill Clinton's secretary of labor, Robert Reich, frets on his blog, "History shows how effective demagogic ravings can be when a public is stressed economically." He warns that Jews, along with gays and blacks, could become victims of populist rage.
In the New York Jewish Week newspaper, a column by Rabbi Ronald Price of the Union for Traditional Judaism begins, "In the 1930s, as Germany's economy collapsed, the finger was pointed at the Jews and the Nazis ascended to power. The famous Dreyfus Affair, in which a Jew was falsely accused of treason in France, followed on the heels of economic turmoil."
At this juncture, the trepidation may yet seem like paranoia, or special pleading akin to the old joke about the newspaper headline, "World Ends in Nuclear Attack: Poor, Minorities Hardest Hit." Everyone is feeling the brunt of the recession; why worry about the Jews in particular? After all, Jews today have two refuges: Israel and America, a land where Jews have attained remarkable power and prosperity and have a constitutionally protected right to exercise their religion freely. In that case, why worry about potential danger to the Jews at all?
One answer is that the historical precedents are exceedingly grim. The causes of the First Crusade, in which thousands of Jews were murdered, are still being debated, but some historians link it to famine and a poor harvest in 1095. As for the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492, the foremost historian of its causes, Benzion Netanyahu (the father of Israel's new prime minister), writes of the desire of the persecutors "to get rid of their debts by getting rid of their creditors." More generally, he writes, "it is an iron-clad rule in the history of group relations: the majority's toleration of every minority lessens with the worsening of the majority's condition."
Lest this seem overly crude economic determinism, consider that the Jews have been victims not only of unrest prompted by economic distress but of attempts to remedy such economic distress with socialism. Take it from Friedrich Hayek, the late Nobel Prize winning Austrian economist. In "The Road to Serfdom," Hayek wrote, "In Germany and Austria the Jew had come to be regarded as the representative of Capitalism." Thus, the response in those countries, National Socialism, was an attack on both capitalism and the Jews.
There are ample indicators of current anti-Semitic attitudes. A poll conducted recently in Europe by the Anti-Defamation League found 74% of Spaniards believe Jews "have too much power in international financial markets," while 67% of Hungarians believe Jews "have too much power in the business world." Here in America, the Web site of National Journal is hosting an "expert blog" by former CIA official Michael Scheuer, now a professor at Georgetown, complaining of a "fifth column of pro-Israel U.S. citizens" who are "unquestionably enemies of America's republican experiment." And over at Yahoo! Finance, the message board discussing Goldman Sachs is rife with comments about "Jew pigs" and the "Zionist Federal Reserve."
So will the Jews come under attack? The existence of the Jewish state guarantees refuge for Jews around the world, but it carries with it its own risks. Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has said that if the Jews "all gather in Israel, it will save us the trouble of going after them world-wide." It's a comment all the more chilling as Nasrallah's Iranian sponsors are on the brink of making a nuclear bomb.
As for the idea that Jewish professional, political, and economic success in America is a guarantee of security, that, too, has its risks. As Yuri Sleskine recounted in his book "The Jewish Century," in 1900 Vienna more than half of the lawyers, doctors and professional journalists were Jewish, as were 70% of the members of the stock exchange. In Germany, after World War I but before the Nazis came to power, Jews served as finance minister and as foreign minister. Such achievements have a way of being fleeting.
It may yet be that the Jews escape the current economic crisis having only lost fortunes. But if not, there will have been no lack of warning about the threat. When Jews gather Wednesday night for the Passover Seder, we will recite the words from the Hagadah, the book that relays the Israelite exodus from slavery in Egypt: "In every generation they rise up against us to destroy us." This year, they will resonate all the more ominously."
I Love This British Stuff
If you've ever looked at London newspapers online you will notice they are unabashed about using sex to sell papers. They frequently post random pictures of the WaGs (wives and girlfriends) of the National Soccer team.
Note: Alex Curran is my favorite WaG.
But this picture accompanying a story about changing the clocks, seems a little gratuitous, even for me.
Note: Alex Curran is my favorite WaG.
But this picture accompanying a story about changing the clocks, seems a little gratuitous, even for me.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Winnie Cooper Gets Married
The smoking hot Danica McKellar (best known for playing Winnie Cooper on "The Wonder Years" and the girl in Ted's bedroom in "The Pineapple Incident") who is also incredibly intelligent and gave up acting to pursue a degree in math, got married to some douche, so I might as well post pictures of her.
Becky Slater was her maid of honor, because she's also her sister.
Kevin Arnold wasn't there. I guess it hurt too much.
Becky Slater was her maid of honor, because she's also her sister.
Kevin Arnold wasn't there. I guess it hurt too much.
Method Actor
A disturbing new anti-smoking ad shows a small child losing his mother in a crowded train station. The poor little boy gets sadder and sadder and heart-breakingly, starts to cry.
As if that weren't cruel enough, turns out he wasn't acting.
The Australian company that produced the ad said the boy's reaction was real.
His mother really did walk away from him and they recorded his natural reaction.
I can't think of anything more cruel.
But the company says just a few seconds later he was back in his mother's arms.
As if that weren't cruel enough, turns out he wasn't acting.
The Australian company that produced the ad said the boy's reaction was real.
His mother really did walk away from him and they recorded his natural reaction.
I can't think of anything more cruel.
But the company says just a few seconds later he was back in his mother's arms.
Joe Paterno is So Old He Remembers When Jews Dominated the NBA
It's getting to the point where I don't even need to make jokes anymore. Paterno provides such great material it's better to present it unvarnished.
Btw, I do hope they strip Bowden of those 14 wins, because Paterno deserves the record. He may be a senile old fool now but he was a great coach for many years and always did it the right way. As opposed to Bowden who cheated, recruited thugs, and always excused their behavior while hiding behind the veil of Christian charity.
Btw, I do hope they strip Bowden of those 14 wins, because Paterno deserves the record. He may be a senile old fool now but he was a great coach for many years and always did it the right way. As opposed to Bowden who cheated, recruited thugs, and always excused their behavior while hiding behind the veil of Christian charity.
Song of the Week
"Jai Ho" - Pussycat Dolls
Mrs. Poop and I finally saw "Slumdog Millionaire." I loved it, I think Mrs. Poop said she thought it was pretty good, but not worthy of all that hype. But she does love this song, and I love the PussyCat Dolls and my girl Nicole Scherzinger.
Note: This is the New World Order of Song of the Week. Tightass record companies don't allow their videos to be embedded. And instead of clicking on 100 different videos to find one that might be embeddable, I'm just going to paste the link, and no one is going to click, but that's the way it is.
Blame youtube and greedy record labels, not me.
Mrs. Poop and I finally saw "Slumdog Millionaire." I loved it, I think Mrs. Poop said she thought it was pretty good, but not worthy of all that hype. But she does love this song, and I love the PussyCat Dolls and my girl Nicole Scherzinger.
Note: This is the New World Order of Song of the Week. Tightass record companies don't allow their videos to be embedded. And instead of clicking on 100 different videos to find one that might be embeddable, I'm just going to paste the link, and no one is going to click, but that's the way it is.
Blame youtube and greedy record labels, not me.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Gruesome Sports Injury
Turkish wrestler Serkan Ozden breaks his finger during a competition and will join Billy and Anthony Munoz in living the rest of his life as a deformed freak.
Jessica Biel Plays a Stripper in a New Movie
Jessica Biel plays a stripper in "Powder Blue" and here's an awesome look at how she got ready for the role.
Update: it has been confirmed that Jessica Biel will show her tits in this movie.
Update: it has been confirmed that Jessica Biel will show her tits in this movie.
No One Shakes Hands Like Johan Santana
In addition to never losing anymore (10-0 in his last 18 starts) the great Johan Santana is blending in in the clubhouse.
And he also has personal handshakes with every member of the team. The only people I ever knew who could remember 25 different handshakes were Jose Lima, and Juice.
And he also has personal handshakes with every member of the team. The only people I ever knew who could remember 25 different handshakes were Jose Lima, and Juice.
Mrs. Poop Comes Out on Top
When I tried to encourage you all to enter The Poop's tournament challenge group, I promised the winner a "laudatory post."
And there is no one about whom I'd rather write a laudatory post than my wife, the lovely Mrs. Poop.
But since I've often described this entire blog as "a love letter to Mrs. Poop" it's not necessary to repeat all that here.
Plus, her accomplishments speak for themselves. She got 3 out of the 4 Final Four teams correct, nailed Michigan State vs. UNC with UNC winning. And for good measure, in her tiebreaker she correctly predicted Michigan State would score 72 points in the title game.
Her 1570 points placed her in the top half-percent nationally, pretty good. She finished in a multi-way tie for 20,587th place, a remarkable accomplishment in a field of more than 4,000,000 people.
Now the question everyone is asking, how did Mrs. Poop do it? First of all, she picked the least creative entry name possible. Seeing as how "ton" finished second, there must have been something to this.
Second, she did not have me standing behind her while she was making the picks, clearing my throat when she made a bad one. Although, if I had been I wouldn't have let her pick UCLA or Duke over Villanova.
Third, with Mrs. Poop first and jusTON second, maybe being good-looking helped. But considering I finished third and Special K finished last, I doubt that had anything to do with it.
Maybe Mrs. Poop just knows a lot about college basketball. Or maybe she really did travel into the year 2015 and buy a sports almanac.
Who knows?
Congratulations to Mrs. Poop, a deserving winner of the 2009 Poop Tournament Challenge.
And there is no one about whom I'd rather write a laudatory post than my wife, the lovely Mrs. Poop.
But since I've often described this entire blog as "a love letter to Mrs. Poop" it's not necessary to repeat all that here.
Plus, her accomplishments speak for themselves. She got 3 out of the 4 Final Four teams correct, nailed Michigan State vs. UNC with UNC winning. And for good measure, in her tiebreaker she correctly predicted Michigan State would score 72 points in the title game.
Her 1570 points placed her in the top half-percent nationally, pretty good. She finished in a multi-way tie for 20,587th place, a remarkable accomplishment in a field of more than 4,000,000 people.
Now the question everyone is asking, how did Mrs. Poop do it? First of all, she picked the least creative entry name possible. Seeing as how "ton" finished second, there must have been something to this.
Second, she did not have me standing behind her while she was making the picks, clearing my throat when she made a bad one. Although, if I had been I wouldn't have let her pick UCLA or Duke over Villanova.
Third, with Mrs. Poop first and jusTON second, maybe being good-looking helped. But considering I finished third and Special K finished last, I doubt that had anything to do with it.
Maybe Mrs. Poop just knows a lot about college basketball. Or maybe she really did travel into the year 2015 and buy a sports almanac.
Who knows?
Congratulations to Mrs. Poop, a deserving winner of the 2009 Poop Tournament Challenge.
If Women Really Wanted Smart and Funny I'd be on the Cover of Magazines Instead of that Humorless Dolt Brad Pitt
A new study has found that ladies adore men who make them laugh.
According to the research, women think that funny men are smarter and more likely to be honest than more dour counterparts.
Women may have evolved to find intelligence an attractive quality because it suggests that a man will be a good provider for her and her children.
The study included 45 heterosexual women who were asked to read shorts descriptions of themselves compiled by 20 men, 10 of which were scored extremely funny and 10 as only slightly funny.
Then women were asked how intelligent and honest they thought that the men were and how likely they would be to go on to develop a friendship or a long-term relationship with them.
The findings show that men who used the funniest descriptions of themselves were thought to be significantly more intelligent than those who weren't as witty.
Funnier men were also seen as a better catch for a long-term relationship, according to the findings.
According to the research, women think that funny men are smarter and more likely to be honest than more dour counterparts.
Women may have evolved to find intelligence an attractive quality because it suggests that a man will be a good provider for her and her children.
The study included 45 heterosexual women who were asked to read shorts descriptions of themselves compiled by 20 men, 10 of which were scored extremely funny and 10 as only slightly funny.
Then women were asked how intelligent and honest they thought that the men were and how likely they would be to go on to develop a friendship or a long-term relationship with them.
The findings show that men who used the funniest descriptions of themselves were thought to be significantly more intelligent than those who weren't as witty.
Funnier men were also seen as a better catch for a long-term relationship, according to the findings.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Mets 2009 Season Preview
After two disappointing collapses, GM Omar Minaya resisted the calls to blow up the Mets core and start over. Instead, Minaya identified the team’s biggest weakness then went after the best possible solutions to his problem. In doing so Minaya has turned a horrible bullpen into what very well could be one of the best pens in the majors.
Minaya realized the difference in the last two season was just a few games, not a few miles. The Mets were just a couple moves away. So he stayed the course and kept his good young players together.
With Reyes, Wright and Beltran, the Mets have a great trio to build around for at least the next 3 years until Beltran’s contract expires, and Wright and Reyes should play together for the next 10. Around them is still a weak lineup.
Carlos Delgado is old and getting older and I still believe his performance of the past two season is more evidence of his diminishing skills than the two hot months he had last year. A similar situation surrounds new acquisition Gary Sheffield who got old in a hurry. If either of those guys can deliver 30 home runs, the Mets will once again have a powerful offense like the one that carried them in 2006.
The other half of the lineup is fairly weak, with Brian Schneider and Luis Castillo amounting to almost automatic outs. Daniel Murphy and Ryan Church should still get a lot of playing times, playing together nearly everyday against right handed pitchers. I really think Murphy if put in between Reyes and Beltran can develop into a great, patient hitter with a .400 OBP and .900 OPS.
The starting pitching is the strength of this team and with six more years of Johan I don’t see that changing. I expect a huge year from Santana and if he gets some run support he can easily win 22 games. He could last year. There are a few question marks behind him though. Mike Pelfrey was a legitimate #2 last year, if he keeps up that growth he’s looking at 15 to 17 wins. And I still love Oliver Perez. He will never be Cy Young caliber like we thought be might in 2004. But he can be a very good to above average pitcher, especially under the tutelage of Dan Warthen. John Maine is a major question mark who can be the best #4 in the league, if healthy. The last spot will likely be a black hole all season with veterans and rookies shuffling in and out of the rotation.
The bullpen solidified by K-Rod and Putz should become a strength and all the other pitchers should be more effective in reduced roles. If Putz is for the 8th and K-Rod the 9th, then the other relief pitchers will likely be called to get throgh one inning, assuming the starters can go 6 on a regular basis. So that solves that problem.
But one more problem exists, one even more insidious, and more destructive over the last three seasons the the bullpen. As bad as the bullpen has been, the real reason for the devastating collapses has been the lack of timely hitting. We've already established the Mets do not do the little things (good defense, taking extra bases) that win games, but even when they get hits, they don't get them at the right times. They don't advance runners. They don't hit sacrifice flies. They leave tons of men on base.
A lot of the improvement needed in that area could be attributed to luck, but whatever it is, it will be the difference in 5 games this season. And those 5 games will be the difference between 93 wins and a division title or 88 wins and another out-of-it October.
Minaya realized the difference in the last two season was just a few games, not a few miles. The Mets were just a couple moves away. So he stayed the course and kept his good young players together.
With Reyes, Wright and Beltran, the Mets have a great trio to build around for at least the next 3 years until Beltran’s contract expires, and Wright and Reyes should play together for the next 10. Around them is still a weak lineup.
Carlos Delgado is old and getting older and I still believe his performance of the past two season is more evidence of his diminishing skills than the two hot months he had last year. A similar situation surrounds new acquisition Gary Sheffield who got old in a hurry. If either of those guys can deliver 30 home runs, the Mets will once again have a powerful offense like the one that carried them in 2006.
The other half of the lineup is fairly weak, with Brian Schneider and Luis Castillo amounting to almost automatic outs. Daniel Murphy and Ryan Church should still get a lot of playing times, playing together nearly everyday against right handed pitchers. I really think Murphy if put in between Reyes and Beltran can develop into a great, patient hitter with a .400 OBP and .900 OPS.
The starting pitching is the strength of this team and with six more years of Johan I don’t see that changing. I expect a huge year from Santana and if he gets some run support he can easily win 22 games. He could last year. There are a few question marks behind him though. Mike Pelfrey was a legitimate #2 last year, if he keeps up that growth he’s looking at 15 to 17 wins. And I still love Oliver Perez. He will never be Cy Young caliber like we thought be might in 2004. But he can be a very good to above average pitcher, especially under the tutelage of Dan Warthen. John Maine is a major question mark who can be the best #4 in the league, if healthy. The last spot will likely be a black hole all season with veterans and rookies shuffling in and out of the rotation.
The bullpen solidified by K-Rod and Putz should become a strength and all the other pitchers should be more effective in reduced roles. If Putz is for the 8th and K-Rod the 9th, then the other relief pitchers will likely be called to get throgh one inning, assuming the starters can go 6 on a regular basis. So that solves that problem.
But one more problem exists, one even more insidious, and more destructive over the last three seasons the the bullpen. As bad as the bullpen has been, the real reason for the devastating collapses has been the lack of timely hitting. We've already established the Mets do not do the little things (good defense, taking extra bases) that win games, but even when they get hits, they don't get them at the right times. They don't advance runners. They don't hit sacrifice flies. They leave tons of men on base.
A lot of the improvement needed in that area could be attributed to luck, but whatever it is, it will be the difference in 5 games this season. And those 5 games will be the difference between 93 wins and a division title or 88 wins and another out-of-it October.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
NASCAR Rubes Duped
The hicks and bumpkins who watch NASCAR were tricked by an April Fool's prank played by Car & Driver.
The magazine's website said a stipulation of the automakers' bailout required GM and Chrysler to stop participating in NASCAR.
That would mean the end for drivers of the Chevy or Dodge cars.
NASCAR fans freaked out over this and Car & Driver was forced to apologize and admit they may have "gone too far."
Chrysler's spokesman called the prank the most irresponsible thing he's ever seen.
It was a joke, lighten up people.
The magazine's website said a stipulation of the automakers' bailout required GM and Chrysler to stop participating in NASCAR.
That would mean the end for drivers of the Chevy or Dodge cars.
NASCAR fans freaked out over this and Car & Driver was forced to apologize and admit they may have "gone too far."
Chrysler's spokesman called the prank the most irresponsible thing he's ever seen.
It was a joke, lighten up people.
Josh's Favorite Poker Player
In order to be a successful poker player, you have to be able to tell your opponents a lie and make them believe it.
On a recent "Poker After Dark" Phil Laak says that when he starts playing poker, he just can't stop telling lies. One time he was in a casino and he was starving but when someone asked him if he was hungry and wanted to get something to eat, he said "no thanks, I just ate."
On a recent "Poker After Dark" Phil Laak says that when he starts playing poker, he just can't stop telling lies. One time he was in a casino and he was starving but when someone asked him if he was hungry and wanted to get something to eat, he said "no thanks, I just ate."
Saturday, April 04, 2009
That's How I Want to Rehab
Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum is catching heat because he was photographed during his rehab at the Playboy Mansion with the incredibly hot Nicole Narain sitting on his shoulder.
This is not a big deal because even with her big ass Narain weighs no more than 120 pounds. Not exactly a strenuous lift for a 280 pound, 7-footer. Even on an injured knee.
Bynum explained his rationale "I got to meet Hugh Hefner. Who wouldn't want to go meet that dude? He talked about how much of a Lakers fan he is and how he is a friend of Dr. Buss. The picture obviously everybody is talking about, when I picked the Playmate up. I don't know. I just wanted to take a shot like that. I wasn't going to be a party-pooper about it."
As someone who has done tons of stupid things so as to avoid being a party-pooper. And as someone who loves black women with big asses, I also understand his motivation in that regard.
But he has to understand that this looks bad. As a guy who always gets hurt, takes forever to come back and has already been accused of not rehabbing seriously this is not the image to portray to the fans and his teammates.
This is not a big deal because even with her big ass Narain weighs no more than 120 pounds. Not exactly a strenuous lift for a 280 pound, 7-footer. Even on an injured knee.
Bynum explained his rationale "I got to meet Hugh Hefner. Who wouldn't want to go meet that dude? He talked about how much of a Lakers fan he is and how he is a friend of Dr. Buss. The picture obviously everybody is talking about, when I picked the Playmate up. I don't know. I just wanted to take a shot like that. I wasn't going to be a party-pooper about it."
As someone who has done tons of stupid things so as to avoid being a party-pooper. And as someone who loves black women with big asses, I also understand his motivation in that regard.
But he has to understand that this looks bad. As a guy who always gets hurt, takes forever to come back and has already been accused of not rehabbing seriously this is not the image to portray to the fans and his teammates.
Omar Gets Another Washed-Up Veteran
After an off-season of avoiding the type of reactionary moves that fans love but never actually work out the Mets may have ruined everything by signing Gary Sheffield after he was released by the Tigers.
1) Sheffield sucks right now. Look at his stats over the past three years. He hasn't just been average, he's been bad. And he's 40, what would make the Mets think he can turn it around?
2) He's old, and slow and can't play defense. The Mets refuse to realize the intangibles young players bring. They obviously haven't been watching over the past three years as rallies were killed when the slow-footed Mets grounded into double plays and failed to take extra bases. Adding him to a lineup of Delgado and Schneider and maybe on some days Tatis creates a base-running disaster.
3) The Mets are so stubborn they will stick with Sheffield the entire season no matter how badly he plays because they won't want to admit mistakes.
4) This stunts the growth of the promising Danny Murphy. He could potentially be the solution to the Mets problem with the #2 hole, but this guarantees he'll be sitting almost all the time against lefties this season. It also relegates Fernando Tatis to pinch hitter only. Tatis was better last year than Sheffield has been in any of the last three years. Sure, Tatis is old and injury prone but so is Sheffield.
5) Sheffield was a steroid user. The steroids were keeping him young and in shape, now that he quit (we think) he got old fast.
6) Sheffield is a bad guy. A horrible selfish player. Do you really think he is going to accept playing only against lefties? No way. He's going to cause problems in the clubhouse, a clubhouse with a new manager and devoid of the leadership necessary to handle an asshole like Sheffield.
1) Sheffield sucks right now. Look at his stats over the past three years. He hasn't just been average, he's been bad. And he's 40, what would make the Mets think he can turn it around?
2) He's old, and slow and can't play defense. The Mets refuse to realize the intangibles young players bring. They obviously haven't been watching over the past three years as rallies were killed when the slow-footed Mets grounded into double plays and failed to take extra bases. Adding him to a lineup of Delgado and Schneider and maybe on some days Tatis creates a base-running disaster.
3) The Mets are so stubborn they will stick with Sheffield the entire season no matter how badly he plays because they won't want to admit mistakes.
4) This stunts the growth of the promising Danny Murphy. He could potentially be the solution to the Mets problem with the #2 hole, but this guarantees he'll be sitting almost all the time against lefties this season. It also relegates Fernando Tatis to pinch hitter only. Tatis was better last year than Sheffield has been in any of the last three years. Sure, Tatis is old and injury prone but so is Sheffield.
5) Sheffield was a steroid user. The steroids were keeping him young and in shape, now that he quit (we think) he got old fast.
6) Sheffield is a bad guy. A horrible selfish player. Do you really think he is going to accept playing only against lefties? No way. He's going to cause problems in the clubhouse, a clubhouse with a new manager and devoid of the leadership necessary to handle an asshole like Sheffield.
Friday, April 03, 2009
Song of the Week
"She's Fine (Halle Berry)"
From the gentleman who brought you the classic "Ay Bay Bay" comes another club-banger.
Note: the above video is not the full song but it has clips from Halle Berry movies so I like it.
And here's Halle Berry doing a sexy dance (because she doesn't know any unsexy dances) to the song that invokes her name.
From the gentleman who brought you the classic "Ay Bay Bay" comes another club-banger.
Note: the above video is not the full song but it has clips from Halle Berry movies so I like it.
And here's Halle Berry doing a sexy dance (because she doesn't know any unsexy dances) to the song that invokes her name.
The Impossible Sit-Up
Very few details on this but it looks like it happened in the Detroit Tigers locker room. You tell a rookie he can't do a sit-up with his eyes covered. So you place a towel over his face and goad him into it.
To hilarious results.
But be careful, this video may not be suitable for all workplaces.
Impossible Situp Prank - Watch more Funny Videos
To hilarious results.
But be careful, this video may not be suitable for all workplaces.
Impossible Situp Prank - Watch more Funny Videos
2009 Baseball Season Predictions
You know the drill, make your picks, all the same categories, post them in the comments section, the winner gets recognized at the end of th season.
NL East: New York Mets
NL Central: Chicago Cubs
NL West: Los Angeles Dodgers
NL Wild Card: Philadelphia Phillies
AL East: New York Yankees
AL Central: Cleveland Indians
AL West: Oakland A’s
AL Wild Card: Boston Red Sox
World Series: Chicago Cubs over Boston Red Sox
NL MVP: Pooh Holes
AL MVP: David Ortiz
NL Rookie of the Year: Cameron Maybin
AL Rookie of the Year: Matt LaPorta
NL Cy Young: Johan Santana
AL Cy Young: Felix Hernandez
NL Manager of the Year: Lou Piniella
AL Manager of the Year: Bob Geren
NL Comeback Player of the Year: Barry Zito
AL Comeback Player of the Year: Victor Martinez
NL East: New York Mets
NL Central: Chicago Cubs
NL West: Los Angeles Dodgers
NL Wild Card: Philadelphia Phillies
AL East: New York Yankees
AL Central: Cleveland Indians
AL West: Oakland A’s
AL Wild Card: Boston Red Sox
World Series: Chicago Cubs over Boston Red Sox
NL MVP: Pooh Holes
AL MVP: David Ortiz
NL Rookie of the Year: Cameron Maybin
AL Rookie of the Year: Matt LaPorta
NL Cy Young: Johan Santana
AL Cy Young: Felix Hernandez
NL Manager of the Year: Lou Piniella
AL Manager of the Year: Bob Geren
NL Comeback Player of the Year: Barry Zito
AL Comeback Player of the Year: Victor Martinez
April Fool's
Kudos to those of you who caught on to my April Fool's Day Joke. But I don't think any of you specifically noticed the hints, if you had you would have been convinced it's a joke. Not only did I choose 4/1 to make this announcement, check out the time of day I posted this, and go back and read the first two words of every paragraph.
Here's why I did it:
1) I'm a narcissist
2) The enjoyment I get from this blog is the feedback and reaction from all of you. I wanted to see who would react and how, and if anyone would pick up on the hints.
3) Most importantly, pretty much everything I said in that post is true. I have no time to this anymore. It does seem like a chore to me. What I loved about this when I was first doing it is that I was writing the blog I wanted to read. I was posting things in a timely fashion, finding the best pictures to illustrate my story (I hate reading a blog that says "you should have seen this" or "so-and-sos wife is so hot" without the accompanying visual evidence) and I was writing these stories better than the AP or other services and adding my own twisted take on these events. Now all I do is cut and paste directly from the AP, and I do it five days after you've already heard the stories.
4) This post was actually my apology for doing such a crappy job on the Poop lately and a warning that it doesn't seem like the content here will improve, but I trust you'll find it beats the alternative.
5) But, all that being said, I don't plan to ever make an official announcement ending this blog. So much of my life is already recorded in these virtual pages it would be ashame to just let it die. So what I intend is to do the best I can for as long as possible.
Here's why I did it:
1) I'm a narcissist
2) The enjoyment I get from this blog is the feedback and reaction from all of you. I wanted to see who would react and how, and if anyone would pick up on the hints.
3) Most importantly, pretty much everything I said in that post is true. I have no time to this anymore. It does seem like a chore to me. What I loved about this when I was first doing it is that I was writing the blog I wanted to read. I was posting things in a timely fashion, finding the best pictures to illustrate my story (I hate reading a blog that says "you should have seen this" or "so-and-sos wife is so hot" without the accompanying visual evidence) and I was writing these stories better than the AP or other services and adding my own twisted take on these events. Now all I do is cut and paste directly from the AP, and I do it five days after you've already heard the stories.
4) This post was actually my apology for doing such a crappy job on the Poop lately and a warning that it doesn't seem like the content here will improve, but I trust you'll find it beats the alternative.
5) But, all that being said, I don't plan to ever make an official announcement ending this blog. So much of my life is already recorded in these virtual pages it would be ashame to just let it die. So what I intend is to do the best I can for as long as possible.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
We Had a Good Run
Four wonderful years ago (more like three and a half) I decided to start a blog so I could share with the world the same things I was frequently e-mailing to the woman who had recently become Mrs. Poop. Since that time (a few months after our wedding) I got promoted, moved to overnights, had a baby, got fired, got a new job and blogged about all of it. And I think that’s enough.
For one reason or another I’ve put off this day until now.
For one year now – or longer – this blog has been more of an intrusion in my life than a fun hobby. As much as I enjoy doing it – my own personal need to post every good story, as quickly has possible – has become impossible at my new job, with my new schedule. And with my new kid, sitting at the computer pecking away nonsense about cheerleaders and sluts, no longer seems worth the effort. And it wasn’t just my interest that was waning. I’ve noticed that many once loyal Poopheads now only check the blog once a week or less. As hits from strangers looking for cheerleaders pooping went through the roof, hits (and comments) from the people I actually care about, fell off. But I thank you all for reading and participating over the years and for bearing with me over the past few months as this once great blog became a shell of itself.
For one last time, I click publish post – and say goodbye.
For one reason or another I’ve put off this day until now.
For one year now – or longer – this blog has been more of an intrusion in my life than a fun hobby. As much as I enjoy doing it – my own personal need to post every good story, as quickly has possible – has become impossible at my new job, with my new schedule. And with my new kid, sitting at the computer pecking away nonsense about cheerleaders and sluts, no longer seems worth the effort. And it wasn’t just my interest that was waning. I’ve noticed that many once loyal Poopheads now only check the blog once a week or less. As hits from strangers looking for cheerleaders pooping went through the roof, hits (and comments) from the people I actually care about, fell off. But I thank you all for reading and participating over the years and for bearing with me over the past few months as this once great blog became a shell of itself.
For one last time, I click publish post – and say goodbye.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Deirdre Wuz Robbed
Mrs. Poop's cousin Deirdre is a very civic minded, and fashion minded person, so the Stiletto Stampede is perfect for her.
As part of Charleston's Fashion Week people get dressed up in crazy costumes and run a 100 meter dash, to raise money for charity.
There was also a prize for best costume, and that's where Deirdre got hosed. Her Octomom get-up was genius, and incredibly accurate to the real Octomom, including those authentic lips.
Deirdre lost to some douche in drag (at right) and even worse, his boots have a thick heel, they're not stilettos at all.
As part of Charleston's Fashion Week people get dressed up in crazy costumes and run a 100 meter dash, to raise money for charity.
There was also a prize for best costume, and that's where Deirdre got hosed. Her Octomom get-up was genius, and incredibly accurate to the real Octomom, including those authentic lips.
Deirdre lost to some douche in drag (at right) and even worse, his boots have a thick heel, they're not stilettos at all.
That Was the Game We've Been Waiting For
There's been a lot of complaining during this NCAA tournament about a lack of good, exciting games.
Villanova and Pittsburgh delivered in what will likely go down as the signature game of this tournament.
Villanova jumped out to a big lead, and Pittsburgh slowly fought back.
After that it was a back and forth affair almost the entire time, until Villanova built a 4-point lead with 20 seconds to go.
DaJuan Blair (I was right, third best player on the team) scored to make it 2, then Reggie Redding made the stupidest pass of all-time. All he needs to do there is get the ball in bounds. Instead it's a turnover, then they foul Levance Fields who sinks two free throws to tie it (onions!).
Fortunately for Villanova Scottie Reynolds bailed them out with one of the best coast-to-coast game-winning drives ever.
Pittsburgh blew it when they didn't cut Reynolds off at half-court and force him to give up the ball.
Tom Izzo has taken Michigan State to 5 Final Fours in 14 years at the school. And he does it without bringing in top recruiting classes every year. The guy is a damn good coach.
But I've seen enough shots of a worried Lupe Izzo. Leave the poor woman alone.
Even after Louisville dominated Arizona I still had a feeling Michigan State would beat them. Michigan State can impose their will and force teams out of their game plans. Louisville has trouble scoring in the open court.
UConn is really impressive. I have a strong feeling Jim Calhoun will retire after this season. Wouldn't it be cool if Geno Auriemma took over.
With Ty Lawson back and playing the way he is I don't think anyone can beat North Carolina.
Villanova and Pittsburgh delivered in what will likely go down as the signature game of this tournament.
Villanova jumped out to a big lead, and Pittsburgh slowly fought back.
After that it was a back and forth affair almost the entire time, until Villanova built a 4-point lead with 20 seconds to go.
DaJuan Blair (I was right, third best player on the team) scored to make it 2, then Reggie Redding made the stupidest pass of all-time. All he needs to do there is get the ball in bounds. Instead it's a turnover, then they foul Levance Fields who sinks two free throws to tie it (onions!).
Fortunately for Villanova Scottie Reynolds bailed them out with one of the best coast-to-coast game-winning drives ever.
Pittsburgh blew it when they didn't cut Reynolds off at half-court and force him to give up the ball.
Tom Izzo has taken Michigan State to 5 Final Fours in 14 years at the school. And he does it without bringing in top recruiting classes every year. The guy is a damn good coach.
But I've seen enough shots of a worried Lupe Izzo. Leave the poor woman alone.
Even after Louisville dominated Arizona I still had a feeling Michigan State would beat them. Michigan State can impose their will and force teams out of their game plans. Louisville has trouble scoring in the open court.
UConn is really impressive. I have a strong feeling Jim Calhoun will retire after this season. Wouldn't it be cool if Geno Auriemma took over.
With Ty Lawson back and playing the way he is I don't think anyone can beat North Carolina.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Smoking Smarties
Lots of controversy about this video as this young punk smokes his Smarties and will surely grow up to a life of smoking cigarettes, then weed, then stealing from his mama's purse to pay for his crack habit.
A little ridiculous if you ask me, but I'm not letting Chase watch this, just to be safe.
A little ridiculous if you ask me, but I'm not letting Chase watch this, just to be safe.
Good Seats Still Available
Two prime seats right behind home plate at CitiField are available.
Those seats in either the first or second row behind home plate, a section known as Delta Club Platinum, once belonged to Madoff Securities.
Now the trustee for says they are an asset of the firm and should be monetized.
The seats (not sure if there are 2 or 4, maybe more) go for $695 each for platinum games like Opening Day and the games against the Yankees. They cost $595 for gold games, $495 for silver, $395 for bronze, and a steal at $295 for value games.
That comes out to $40,000 per seat for the season.
"They're paid for. They can do with them what they want to," says Mets Executive Vice President David Howard said.
Those seats in either the first or second row behind home plate, a section known as Delta Club Platinum, once belonged to Madoff Securities.
Now the trustee for says they are an asset of the firm and should be monetized.
The seats (not sure if there are 2 or 4, maybe more) go for $695 each for platinum games like Opening Day and the games against the Yankees. They cost $595 for gold games, $495 for silver, $395 for bronze, and a steal at $295 for value games.
That comes out to $40,000 per seat for the season.
"They're paid for. They can do with them what they want to," says Mets Executive Vice President David Howard said.
Those Who Forget the Past Are Doomed to Repeat It
"He is doing a terrific job."
-President Obama describing Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner
"Heckuva job Brownie."
-President Bush describing FEMA Managing Director Michael Brown
Both men were terribly mishandling the worst crises (natural disaster and economic) to hit this country in many years, and both Presidents were standing by their man.
-President Obama describing Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner
"Heckuva job Brownie."
-President Bush describing FEMA Managing Director Michael Brown
Both men were terribly mishandling the worst crises (natural disaster and economic) to hit this country in many years, and both Presidents were standing by their man.
ShamWow Guys Punches a Hooker
ShamWow pitchman Vince Shlomi was arrested last month on felony battery charges for allegedly punching a stripper.
Police reports claim Shlomi met 26-year-old prostitute Lenea Harris at a Miami nightclub, and subsequently brought her back to his room at Setai Hotel. Shlomi allegedly paid Harris $1,000 for "straight sex."
That's went things took a turn.
Shlomi told police "that he kissed [Harris] when all of a sudden [Harris] bit his tongue and would not let go."
Shlomi punched Harris several times until she released his tongue, and then ran to the lobby to call police. Harris suffered several cuts and fractures to her face.
Josh is so jealous.
Police reports claim Shlomi met 26-year-old prostitute Lenea Harris at a Miami nightclub, and subsequently brought her back to his room at Setai Hotel. Shlomi allegedly paid Harris $1,000 for "straight sex."
That's went things took a turn.
Shlomi told police "that he kissed [Harris] when all of a sudden [Harris] bit his tongue and would not let go."
Shlomi punched Harris several times until she released his tongue, and then ran to the lobby to call police. Harris suffered several cuts and fractures to her face.
Josh is so jealous.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Celeb Sighting
I was walking through the lobby of my building reading my book. When I heard the clomp of high heels walking towards me, I looked up.
I saw a woman in a very short skirt.
When my eyes got up to her face I realized I was about to bump into Ann Coulter.
I saw a woman in a very short skirt.
When my eyes got up to her face I realized I was about to bump into Ann Coulter.
Pictures of Jim Boeheim Making Stupid Faces vs. Oklahoma
Ok, so maybe that picture wasn't so bad. That's why I've also included this one, look closely.
Blake Griffin is a Douche
What kind of douche bangs his head on the backboard while going up for a dunk?
Fuck Blake Griffin.
Fuck Blake Griffin.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
He Needs Papa Poop To Do His Taxes For Him
Method Man was going to pay his bills ... but then he got high.
Despite recent reports that the rapper is so broke that his 2008 Lincoln Navigator was repossessed to pay back taxes, Method Man — whose real name is Clifford Smith — insists his cash flow is just fine. In fact, he says, his penchant for marijuana is to blame for the mishap.
Citing the Wu Tang member for being $52,503 in arrears on his personal income taxes, the state Department of Taxation showed up at the Staten Island native’s home at 6 a.m. March 19 with “four NYPD cops and the repo team,” Meth told us. “I knew why they were there. It wasn’t like ‘Oh my God! Noo!! Don’t take it!’ like it is on that TV show [“Operation Repo”]. I was half-dressed, and it was so early that I just said, ‘Okay, you’re taking the truck. ... Aight.’”
The back story, according to the rapper, is simple.
“Myself, I’m a pothead,” he said on the set of a video shoot for his new album, “Blackout 2,” with Redman. “It’s no secret. Everyone knows that. I go on the road and forget everything else. Sure, [the tax department] sent letters to my house saying, ‘We need this money.’ They started sending them in 2002.
Here it is, 2009, and I never paid this s— because I don’t think like that!”
“I could have easily just written them a check for whatever amount, but no — I waited until they knocked on this door and were like, ‘We got your truck and we outta here,’ ” he laughed.
“Now I’m thinking we’ve gotta get our truck back, which means I have to get all my paperwork together,” the rapper continued. “That means days of going through mail, ’cause I got mail like woah.
I’ve found checks from 2005 that have never been opened yet. And we’re talking a significant amount of money! But I never opened [the tax department’s] letters ... so this is how the tax man came to Meth’s house and took his truck. Not because I was broke! I got plenty of money!”
When we referenced the famous Afroman song “Because I Got High,” Method Man just laughed.
“Exactly!” he said. “Because I got high, I forgot to pay. It was stupid. I’m an idiot for that.”
Despite recent reports that the rapper is so broke that his 2008 Lincoln Navigator was repossessed to pay back taxes, Method Man — whose real name is Clifford Smith — insists his cash flow is just fine. In fact, he says, his penchant for marijuana is to blame for the mishap.
Citing the Wu Tang member for being $52,503 in arrears on his personal income taxes, the state Department of Taxation showed up at the Staten Island native’s home at 6 a.m. March 19 with “four NYPD cops and the repo team,” Meth told us. “I knew why they were there. It wasn’t like ‘Oh my God! Noo!! Don’t take it!’ like it is on that TV show [“Operation Repo”]. I was half-dressed, and it was so early that I just said, ‘Okay, you’re taking the truck. ... Aight.’”
The back story, according to the rapper, is simple.
“Myself, I’m a pothead,” he said on the set of a video shoot for his new album, “Blackout 2,” with Redman. “It’s no secret. Everyone knows that. I go on the road and forget everything else. Sure, [the tax department] sent letters to my house saying, ‘We need this money.’ They started sending them in 2002.
Here it is, 2009, and I never paid this s— because I don’t think like that!”
“I could have easily just written them a check for whatever amount, but no — I waited until they knocked on this door and were like, ‘We got your truck and we outta here,’ ” he laughed.
“Now I’m thinking we’ve gotta get our truck back, which means I have to get all my paperwork together,” the rapper continued. “That means days of going through mail, ’cause I got mail like woah.
I’ve found checks from 2005 that have never been opened yet. And we’re talking a significant amount of money! But I never opened [the tax department’s] letters ... so this is how the tax man came to Meth’s house and took his truck. Not because I was broke! I got plenty of money!”
When we referenced the famous Afroman song “Because I Got High,” Method Man just laughed.
“Exactly!” he said. “Because I got high, I forgot to pay. It was stupid. I’m an idiot for that.”
Friday, March 27, 2009
Syracuse vs. Oklahoma
Oklahoma 84 Syracuse 71
The game wasn't even that close, a complete embarrassment for Syracuse.
The reason Syracuse lost this game is because they had a horrible shooting night and played no defense. I don't blame Flynn's injury, the rout was already underway. I don't even blame Boeheim but it's so frustrating to see a team get killed because the opponent is just tearing up the 2-3 zone, and this coach who is supposedly so great, will never ever ever ever ever try something else. What if he had gone to man at the beginning of the second half? Would they have lost by 30? If so, big deal. Oklahoma was tearing up the zone, it wasn't working, but the great Boeheim stuck with it.
The sad part about this is I really like this team. They just weren't good enough to beat top teams, they lost to UConn, Pitt and Louisville, but they were getting better and had no seniors among their key guys. But Flynn is definitely leaving and Paul Harris will probably leave too because Boeheim hates him and rides him so hard. That's one of the worst parts about college basketball today from a fan's perspective, you don't get to enjoy the good players because they leave too soon.
:30 left
Oklahoma had 14 offensive rebounds, 8 by Griffin.
1:29 left
Great game by Flynn. He's a near perfect point guard, but don't believe that guard play wins in the tournament. Good big men will beat good little guys every time.
2:07 left
I would have chosen Spaghetti Jimmy too. How cute is that?
2:07 left
They made a brief run but now they're not even trying. They are letting Oklahoma get every rebound and loose ball. I won't say they don't have heart because they've shown they do. But they definitely quit on this one.
4:47 left
That chick behind Griffin's parents has big tits. I wonder if Griffin is banging her.
7:53 left
I love Jonny Flynn but why does he keep trying to dunk? I remember at least three times this year he missed like that.
10:19 left
23 point deficit, 10 minutes to go. That's what they call insurmountable. Oklahoma has made 9 of 16 3s.
15:43 left
Too bad Louisville is demolishing Arizona or they'd switch games and we wouldn't have to suffer anymore.
15:43 left
Devendorf gets layups block far too often.
Oklahoma is shooting 86% on their last 14 attempts. I guess that 2-3 zone isn't confusing them.
16:56 left
Oklahoma is socring every single time they have the ball. Any other coach might try changing up the defense but Boeheim is in the Hall of Fame. he must know what he's doing.
18:10 left
Great halftime speech and adjustments from the Hall of Fame Coach Jim Boeheim.
18:21 left
After Flynn cut it to one at 18-17, Oklahoma went on a 28-9 run.
20:00 left
SU is going to need to play its best second half of the season to win this game. And they might have to do it without Jonny Flynn who busted his ass when he got run over by Blake Griffin. Discretion is the better part of valor Jonny.
Halftime
About as bad a first half as you could possibly imagine for Syracuse. They played good defense for a while then Oklahoma picked apart the zone. And the shooting was just awful. 0 for 10 from 3, they will not win like that.
Unless they somehow get hot I have very little hope for a comeback.
:53 left
We do not need Jonny Flynn trying to take charges on Blake Griffin.
1:59 left
What a save by Andy ruatins. If he's not hitting shots he needs to find other ways to contribute.
2:40 left
Jonny Flynn and Rick Jackson are the only guys playing well and trying to do anything. Arinze Onuaku is playing terribly. He keeps turning the ball over, he refuses to take it up strong. What happened to that guy?
3:26 left
Syracuse is 0 for 8 from 3-point land. They have no chance to win if that keeps up.
5:13 left
Oklahoma just got about 5 shots on that possession. SU cannot allow that, though I think a foul should have been called when Flynn ran into that guy.
5:54 left
Is anyone else experiencing problems with the signal? My picture keeps shaking and there's like static at the top of the screen.
6:55 left
Jonny Flynn starting to percolate. Great play by him. He recognized the mismatch, drove it twice then got some room for his jump shot. Three straight baskets by him. Beautiful, heady leadership from Flynn. Btw, I was so furious at Sports Illustrated for their regional cover gimmick because I got the one with Levance Fields. Thankfully someone at work gets it but never reads it so I stole one with Flynn on the cover.
9:50 left
You cannot save the ball under your opponents' basket. Terrible play.
10:15 left
Syracuse picked a bad team to into a teamwide shooting slump. They couldn't make any progress with Griffin on the bench because they missed everything.
11:57 left
Rarely do you see a guy wear a long sleeve shirt under his jersey. Wouldn't you think he gets a little sweaty?
14:37 left
Nightmare start for the Orange. Most possessions they aren't even getting a shot off. And when they do they miss it. This team cannot afford to get far behind.
15:37 left
Jackson and Onuaku can't catch. They've dropped passes, rebounds everything. If they don't start playing better on offense, Syracuse is going to get killed. They need to make Griffin play some defense, wear him down at worst and get him in foul trouble at best.
16:54 left
Two awful possessions, one by each team. A lazy Devendorf gets blocked from behind, then Blake Griffin knocks his own guy over.
17:15 left
Great pass and strong dunk. First basket, we can sit down and stop clapping now.
19:00 left
One minute, 2 possessions, 2 turnovers, 1 3-pointer allowed.
19:36 left
"Here's a look at Jim Boeheim." Not even 30 seconds and we get our first stupid face.
It's Jim Nantz and Clark Kellogg calling this game. I hope to hear Clark say "the Orange need to squeeze the Orange." Or maybe he can say Andy Rautins has a "game like a baby's bottom -- soft but explosive."
In the tournament they say good guard play usually wins out. Syracuse has a definite advantage in that category. Willie Warren is good but Jonny Flynn is better. And with Devendorf playing in control, he gives Syracuse a dimension Oklahoma does not have.
But the problem for Syracuse will be Blake Griffin. SU has to adjust the zone a little bit to match up with him. They can't wait for him to catch the ball in close position before defending him. They also have to be very conscious of him or he will get 10 offensive rebounds. SU consistently allows opponents 20 offensive rebounds, if that happens tonight, they will lose.
Don't forget to get involved by posting your thoughts on the game in the comments section.
The game wasn't even that close, a complete embarrassment for Syracuse.
The reason Syracuse lost this game is because they had a horrible shooting night and played no defense. I don't blame Flynn's injury, the rout was already underway. I don't even blame Boeheim but it's so frustrating to see a team get killed because the opponent is just tearing up the 2-3 zone, and this coach who is supposedly so great, will never ever ever ever ever try something else. What if he had gone to man at the beginning of the second half? Would they have lost by 30? If so, big deal. Oklahoma was tearing up the zone, it wasn't working, but the great Boeheim stuck with it.
The sad part about this is I really like this team. They just weren't good enough to beat top teams, they lost to UConn, Pitt and Louisville, but they were getting better and had no seniors among their key guys. But Flynn is definitely leaving and Paul Harris will probably leave too because Boeheim hates him and rides him so hard. That's one of the worst parts about college basketball today from a fan's perspective, you don't get to enjoy the good players because they leave too soon.
:30 left
Oklahoma had 14 offensive rebounds, 8 by Griffin.
1:29 left
Great game by Flynn. He's a near perfect point guard, but don't believe that guard play wins in the tournament. Good big men will beat good little guys every time.
2:07 left
I would have chosen Spaghetti Jimmy too. How cute is that?
2:07 left
They made a brief run but now they're not even trying. They are letting Oklahoma get every rebound and loose ball. I won't say they don't have heart because they've shown they do. But they definitely quit on this one.
4:47 left
That chick behind Griffin's parents has big tits. I wonder if Griffin is banging her.
7:53 left
I love Jonny Flynn but why does he keep trying to dunk? I remember at least three times this year he missed like that.
10:19 left
23 point deficit, 10 minutes to go. That's what they call insurmountable. Oklahoma has made 9 of 16 3s.
15:43 left
Too bad Louisville is demolishing Arizona or they'd switch games and we wouldn't have to suffer anymore.
15:43 left
Devendorf gets layups block far too often.
Oklahoma is shooting 86% on their last 14 attempts. I guess that 2-3 zone isn't confusing them.
16:56 left
Oklahoma is socring every single time they have the ball. Any other coach might try changing up the defense but Boeheim is in the Hall of Fame. he must know what he's doing.
18:10 left
Great halftime speech and adjustments from the Hall of Fame Coach Jim Boeheim.
18:21 left
After Flynn cut it to one at 18-17, Oklahoma went on a 28-9 run.
20:00 left
SU is going to need to play its best second half of the season to win this game. And they might have to do it without Jonny Flynn who busted his ass when he got run over by Blake Griffin. Discretion is the better part of valor Jonny.
Halftime
About as bad a first half as you could possibly imagine for Syracuse. They played good defense for a while then Oklahoma picked apart the zone. And the shooting was just awful. 0 for 10 from 3, they will not win like that.
Unless they somehow get hot I have very little hope for a comeback.
:53 left
We do not need Jonny Flynn trying to take charges on Blake Griffin.
1:59 left
What a save by Andy ruatins. If he's not hitting shots he needs to find other ways to contribute.
2:40 left
Jonny Flynn and Rick Jackson are the only guys playing well and trying to do anything. Arinze Onuaku is playing terribly. He keeps turning the ball over, he refuses to take it up strong. What happened to that guy?
3:26 left
Syracuse is 0 for 8 from 3-point land. They have no chance to win if that keeps up.
5:13 left
Oklahoma just got about 5 shots on that possession. SU cannot allow that, though I think a foul should have been called when Flynn ran into that guy.
5:54 left
Is anyone else experiencing problems with the signal? My picture keeps shaking and there's like static at the top of the screen.
6:55 left
Jonny Flynn starting to percolate. Great play by him. He recognized the mismatch, drove it twice then got some room for his jump shot. Three straight baskets by him. Beautiful, heady leadership from Flynn. Btw, I was so furious at Sports Illustrated for their regional cover gimmick because I got the one with Levance Fields. Thankfully someone at work gets it but never reads it so I stole one with Flynn on the cover.
9:50 left
You cannot save the ball under your opponents' basket. Terrible play.
10:15 left
Syracuse picked a bad team to into a teamwide shooting slump. They couldn't make any progress with Griffin on the bench because they missed everything.
11:57 left
Rarely do you see a guy wear a long sleeve shirt under his jersey. Wouldn't you think he gets a little sweaty?
14:37 left
Nightmare start for the Orange. Most possessions they aren't even getting a shot off. And when they do they miss it. This team cannot afford to get far behind.
15:37 left
Jackson and Onuaku can't catch. They've dropped passes, rebounds everything. If they don't start playing better on offense, Syracuse is going to get killed. They need to make Griffin play some defense, wear him down at worst and get him in foul trouble at best.
16:54 left
Two awful possessions, one by each team. A lazy Devendorf gets blocked from behind, then Blake Griffin knocks his own guy over.
17:15 left
Great pass and strong dunk. First basket, we can sit down and stop clapping now.
19:00 left
One minute, 2 possessions, 2 turnovers, 1 3-pointer allowed.
19:36 left
"Here's a look at Jim Boeheim." Not even 30 seconds and we get our first stupid face.
It's Jim Nantz and Clark Kellogg calling this game. I hope to hear Clark say "the Orange need to squeeze the Orange." Or maybe he can say Andy Rautins has a "game like a baby's bottom -- soft but explosive."
In the tournament they say good guard play usually wins out. Syracuse has a definite advantage in that category. Willie Warren is good but Jonny Flynn is better. And with Devendorf playing in control, he gives Syracuse a dimension Oklahoma does not have.
But the problem for Syracuse will be Blake Griffin. SU has to adjust the zone a little bit to match up with him. They can't wait for him to catch the ball in close position before defending him. They also have to be very conscious of him or he will get 10 offensive rebounds. SU consistently allows opponents 20 offensive rebounds, if that happens tonight, they will lose.
Don't forget to get involved by posting your thoughts on the game in the comments section.
A Paul's Poop Special Event
Please join me tonight as I live blog the Syracuse-Oklahoma game.
We had some success with this on Sunday during the Arizona State game, but I'd love to have more participation from you guys in the comments section. And by you guys I mean everyone except VW.
We had some success with this on Sunday during the Arizona State game, but I'd love to have more participation from you guys in the comments section. And by you guys I mean everyone except VW.
Sweet Sixteen - Thursday Thoughts
UConn looks really good right now.
Stanley Robinson completely came out of his shell during the 6 OT game and has scored in double digits in each of the last four games. He had 4 double digit point games all season before that.
Connecticut had to deal with the trouble circulating around the team about recruiting violations and rumors of the possible retirement of Jim Calhoun and they still came out and dominated.
I like Purdue though. All five of their starters will be back next year. Their three best players (Hummel, Johnson and Moore) will be juniors next season. With the Big Ten as bad as it is, these guys should be a serious national title contender next year.
--------------------------
Missouri presents an interesting matchup for UConn. Mike Anderson brings the 40 Minutes of Hell style he learned from Nolan Richardson and used to make a run with UAB in 2004.
They didn't just beat Memphis, they slaughtered them. Memphis has great athletes but they couldn't keep up.
Did you see those two shots Marcus Denmon made at the end of the first half? The first one went off the glass but was only a 2-pointer because his foot was on the line. The next time Denmon left no doubt, nailing a 70-footer.
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Villanova also blowing out Duke. They kept it close in the first half scoring only 26 points, but nearly doubled that output putting up 51.
Duke shot only 27% and 19% from the 3-point line.
--------------------------
And finally the game of the night, Pittsburgh over Xavier.
Last week I said they were a flawed team that could be beaten, but I also said I liked them because of Levance Fields and his ability to get a basket when they need it.
And did he ever deliver. Onions! That was one of the biggest shots of the tournament so far. 56 seconds left, down 2. If he misses that, likely best case scenario they get it back with 20 - 25 seconds still down by 2.
And then before Xavier can do anything he steals the ball and pretty much seals the game with a layup.
And in case anyone was wondering, he definitely needed to take that layup. If he pulls it out he only kills about 5 or 10 extra seconds before he gets fouled. And he could miss a free throw. Smart play, great player. And the Big East is guaranteed at least one spot in the Final Four.
If Kansas and Louisville win the Big East and Big XII will have 7 of the 8 teams left.
Stanley Robinson completely came out of his shell during the 6 OT game and has scored in double digits in each of the last four games. He had 4 double digit point games all season before that.
Connecticut had to deal with the trouble circulating around the team about recruiting violations and rumors of the possible retirement of Jim Calhoun and they still came out and dominated.
I like Purdue though. All five of their starters will be back next year. Their three best players (Hummel, Johnson and Moore) will be juniors next season. With the Big Ten as bad as it is, these guys should be a serious national title contender next year.
--------------------------
Missouri presents an interesting matchup for UConn. Mike Anderson brings the 40 Minutes of Hell style he learned from Nolan Richardson and used to make a run with UAB in 2004.
They didn't just beat Memphis, they slaughtered them. Memphis has great athletes but they couldn't keep up.
Did you see those two shots Marcus Denmon made at the end of the first half? The first one went off the glass but was only a 2-pointer because his foot was on the line. The next time Denmon left no doubt, nailing a 70-footer.
--------------------------
Villanova also blowing out Duke. They kept it close in the first half scoring only 26 points, but nearly doubled that output putting up 51.
Duke shot only 27% and 19% from the 3-point line.
--------------------------
And finally the game of the night, Pittsburgh over Xavier.
Last week I said they were a flawed team that could be beaten, but I also said I liked them because of Levance Fields and his ability to get a basket when they need it.
And did he ever deliver. Onions! That was one of the biggest shots of the tournament so far. 56 seconds left, down 2. If he misses that, likely best case scenario they get it back with 20 - 25 seconds still down by 2.
And then before Xavier can do anything he steals the ball and pretty much seals the game with a layup.
And in case anyone was wondering, he definitely needed to take that layup. If he pulls it out he only kills about 5 or 10 extra seconds before he gets fouled. And he could miss a free throw. Smart play, great player. And the Big East is guaranteed at least one spot in the Final Four.
If Kansas and Louisville win the Big East and Big XII will have 7 of the 8 teams left.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
From Jobless to Topless
Another groundbreaking economic investigation from the Associated Press.
I present it here in its entirety because it's good reading:
More women needing cash go from jobless to topless
By Karen Hawkins, Associated Press Writer
From jobless to topless: As economy worsens, more women give strip clubs, adult films a try
CHICAGO (AP) -- As a bartender and trainer at a national restaurant chain, Rebecca Brown earned a couple thousand dollars in a really good week. Now, as a dancer at Chicago's Pink Monkey gentleman's club, she makes almost that much in one good night.
The tough job market is prompting a growing number of women across the country to dance in strip clubs, appear in adult movies or pose for magazines like Hustler.
Employers across the adult entertainment industry say they're seeing an influx of applications from women who, like Brown, are attracted by the promise of flexible schedules and fast cash. Many have college degrees and held white-collar jobs until the economy soured.
"You're seeing a lot more beautiful women who are eligible to do so many other things," said Gus Poulos, general manager of New York City's Sin City gentleman's club. He said he got 85 responses in just one day to a recent job posting on Craigslist.
The transition to the nightclub scene isn't always a smooth one -- from learning to dance in five-inch heels to dealing with the jeers of some customers.
Some performers said they were initially so nervous that only alcohol could calm their nerves.
"It is like giving a speech, but instead of imagining everyone naked, you're the one who's naked," Brown, 29, said.
Eva Stone, a 25-year-old dancer at the Pink Monkey, said dealing with occasional verbal abuse from patrons requires "a thick skin."
Makers of adult films cautioned that women shouldn't rush into the decision to make adult movies without considering the effect on their lives.
"Once you decide to be an adult actress, it impacts your relationship with everyone," said Steven Hirsch, co-chairman of adult film giant Vivid Entertainment Group. "Once you make an adult film, it never goes away."
The women at the Pink Monkey say dancing at a strip club might not have been their first career choice, but they entered the business with their eyes wide open. The job gives them more control and flexibility than sitting in a cubicle, and "it's easy, it's fun and all of us girls ... look out for each other," Brown said.
In this economy, "desperate measures are becoming far more acceptable," said Jonathan Alpert, a New York City-based psychotherapist who's had clients who worked in adult entertainment.
For some, dancing is temporary, a way to pay for college loans or other bills. Others say they've found their niche.
Dancers at the upscale Rick's Caberet clubs in New York City and Miami can make $100,000 to $300,000 a year -- in cash -- even with the economic downturn, club spokesman Allan Priaulx said.
Priaulx said 20 to 30 women a week are applying for jobs at the New York club, double the number of a year ago.
Still, analysts say, the industry isn't immune to the economic recession. Business is down an estimated 30 percent across all segments, including adult films, gentleman's clubs, magazines and novelty shops, said Paul Fishbein, president of AVN Media Network, an adult entertainment company that has a widely distributed trade publication and an award show.
"In the past, people have said this industry is recession-proof," said Eric Wold, director of research for financial services firm Merriman Curhan Ford. "I definitely don't see that; maybe recession-resistant."
Strip club dancers and managers said they're drawing in the same number of customers, but fewer high rollers.
"They're not getting the big spenders," said Angelina Spencer, executive director of the Association of Club Executives, a trade group for adult nightclubs. "They're not getting the guys who come in and drop $3,000 to $4,000 a night anymore."
Still, the clubs' operating structure leaves them with low overhead and profit margins of up to 50 percent, Wold said.
Dancers are independent contractors, paying clubs a nightly flat fee depending on how long they work. At the Pink Monkey, for example, dancers who arrive at 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday pay a $40 "house fee," while women who don't arrive until midnight pay $90. And they keep their tips.
Wold and others say it's almost impossible to estimate the size of the adult entertainment industry because few companies are publicly traded. He does pay close attention to three that are: Lakewood, Colo.-based VCG Holding and Houston-based Rick's Caberet, which own clubs, and New Frontier Media, a Boulder, Colo.-based adult film producer and distributor.
All three are profitable.
Rick's Caberet had $60 million in revenue in its 2008 fiscal year, up from $32 million the year before, Wold said, and he estimates VCG will have $57 million for last year, compared with $40.5 million in FY2007. New Frontier Media generates more than $400 million in consumer buying a year.
Larry Flynt, whose half-billion dollar Hustler empire publishes magazines, produces and distributes films and operates a casino, said he's continued to do well. But he doesn't expect those who are solely in the film business to survive.
"A lot of the small studios are out of business now, there's no doubt about that," Flynt said.
Adult magazines also are struggling along with the larger publishing industry, and have to cut pages like everyone else.
But the economic realities aren't keeping jobseekers away.
Vivid Entertainment's Hirsch said the number of women in his business has doubled in the last couple years, with roughly 800 working as adult actresses. "It is more competitive than I've seen it in 25 years," he said.
That doesn't mean all the newcomers are planning on lengthy careers in the industry.
Stone, who has a bachelor's degree in graphic design, took up dancing four years ago to help pay her student loans. She plans to go to graduate school this year to pursue a master's in education.
Brown, meanwhile, has a ready answer for those critical of her career choice.
"I have job security," she said.
I present it here in its entirety because it's good reading:
More women needing cash go from jobless to topless
By Karen Hawkins, Associated Press Writer
From jobless to topless: As economy worsens, more women give strip clubs, adult films a try
CHICAGO (AP) -- As a bartender and trainer at a national restaurant chain, Rebecca Brown earned a couple thousand dollars in a really good week. Now, as a dancer at Chicago's Pink Monkey gentleman's club, she makes almost that much in one good night.
The tough job market is prompting a growing number of women across the country to dance in strip clubs, appear in adult movies or pose for magazines like Hustler.
Employers across the adult entertainment industry say they're seeing an influx of applications from women who, like Brown, are attracted by the promise of flexible schedules and fast cash. Many have college degrees and held white-collar jobs until the economy soured.
"You're seeing a lot more beautiful women who are eligible to do so many other things," said Gus Poulos, general manager of New York City's Sin City gentleman's club. He said he got 85 responses in just one day to a recent job posting on Craigslist.
The transition to the nightclub scene isn't always a smooth one -- from learning to dance in five-inch heels to dealing with the jeers of some customers.
Some performers said they were initially so nervous that only alcohol could calm their nerves.
"It is like giving a speech, but instead of imagining everyone naked, you're the one who's naked," Brown, 29, said.
Eva Stone, a 25-year-old dancer at the Pink Monkey, said dealing with occasional verbal abuse from patrons requires "a thick skin."
Makers of adult films cautioned that women shouldn't rush into the decision to make adult movies without considering the effect on their lives.
"Once you decide to be an adult actress, it impacts your relationship with everyone," said Steven Hirsch, co-chairman of adult film giant Vivid Entertainment Group. "Once you make an adult film, it never goes away."
The women at the Pink Monkey say dancing at a strip club might not have been their first career choice, but they entered the business with their eyes wide open. The job gives them more control and flexibility than sitting in a cubicle, and "it's easy, it's fun and all of us girls ... look out for each other," Brown said.
In this economy, "desperate measures are becoming far more acceptable," said Jonathan Alpert, a New York City-based psychotherapist who's had clients who worked in adult entertainment.
For some, dancing is temporary, a way to pay for college loans or other bills. Others say they've found their niche.
Dancers at the upscale Rick's Caberet clubs in New York City and Miami can make $100,000 to $300,000 a year -- in cash -- even with the economic downturn, club spokesman Allan Priaulx said.
Priaulx said 20 to 30 women a week are applying for jobs at the New York club, double the number of a year ago.
Still, analysts say, the industry isn't immune to the economic recession. Business is down an estimated 30 percent across all segments, including adult films, gentleman's clubs, magazines and novelty shops, said Paul Fishbein, president of AVN Media Network, an adult entertainment company that has a widely distributed trade publication and an award show.
"In the past, people have said this industry is recession-proof," said Eric Wold, director of research for financial services firm Merriman Curhan Ford. "I definitely don't see that; maybe recession-resistant."
Strip club dancers and managers said they're drawing in the same number of customers, but fewer high rollers.
"They're not getting the big spenders," said Angelina Spencer, executive director of the Association of Club Executives, a trade group for adult nightclubs. "They're not getting the guys who come in and drop $3,000 to $4,000 a night anymore."
Still, the clubs' operating structure leaves them with low overhead and profit margins of up to 50 percent, Wold said.
Dancers are independent contractors, paying clubs a nightly flat fee depending on how long they work. At the Pink Monkey, for example, dancers who arrive at 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday pay a $40 "house fee," while women who don't arrive until midnight pay $90. And they keep their tips.
Wold and others say it's almost impossible to estimate the size of the adult entertainment industry because few companies are publicly traded. He does pay close attention to three that are: Lakewood, Colo.-based VCG Holding and Houston-based Rick's Caberet, which own clubs, and New Frontier Media, a Boulder, Colo.-based adult film producer and distributor.
All three are profitable.
Rick's Caberet had $60 million in revenue in its 2008 fiscal year, up from $32 million the year before, Wold said, and he estimates VCG will have $57 million for last year, compared with $40.5 million in FY2007. New Frontier Media generates more than $400 million in consumer buying a year.
Larry Flynt, whose half-billion dollar Hustler empire publishes magazines, produces and distributes films and operates a casino, said he's continued to do well. But he doesn't expect those who are solely in the film business to survive.
"A lot of the small studios are out of business now, there's no doubt about that," Flynt said.
Adult magazines also are struggling along with the larger publishing industry, and have to cut pages like everyone else.
But the economic realities aren't keeping jobseekers away.
Vivid Entertainment's Hirsch said the number of women in his business has doubled in the last couple years, with roughly 800 working as adult actresses. "It is more competitive than I've seen it in 25 years," he said.
That doesn't mean all the newcomers are planning on lengthy careers in the industry.
Stone, who has a bachelor's degree in graphic design, took up dancing four years ago to help pay her student loans. She plans to go to graduate school this year to pursue a master's in education.
Brown, meanwhile, has a ready answer for those critical of her career choice.
"I have job security," she said.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Song of the Week
"Danger" - Blahzay Blahzay
The song that escalated the East Coast-West Coast rap fued, is also the inspiration for "The Cuse is in the House."
The song that escalated the East Coast-West Coast rap fued, is also the inspiration for "The Cuse is in the House."
Let's Hope We Can Get a Repeat of This
One of my favorite moments in Syracuse basketball history, the postgame interview after SU beat Kansas to go to the Final Four in 1996.
Featuring Cuse in the House and the Al Maguire Dance.
And yes that is Donovan McNabb making faces over Boeheim's shoulder.
Featuring Cuse in the House and the Al Maguire Dance.
And yes that is Donovan McNabb making faces over Boeheim's shoulder.
Journalism Isn't Dying, It's Changing
Interesting, if somewhat cursory look at the problems in the news media. I for one am not worried. There will always be a place for good stories well told. And for every idiot that likes biased, made-up crap from blogs, there are still plenty of others who want to read and watch well-researched, fair, smartly presented stories.
The state of journalism is bleak, but an annual study of the industry suggests all hope should not be lost.
While the business model of many news organizations appears to be fracturing, there's little indication that consumers are losing interest in news, says the Project for Excellence in Journalism. Its sixth annual State of the News Media survey was released on Sunday.
Four newspaper companies have sought bankruptcy protection in recent months, and the Rocky Mountain News in Denver stopped publication.
Yet The New York Times and Washington Post have bigger audiences than ever, when online readership is taken into account, said Tom Rosenstiel, project director. Traffic to the top 50 online news sites rose by 27 percent in 2008, the report said.
"This is not an industry that is dying," Rosenstiel said. "This is an industry that is in disorientation."
Local television news also is in trouble. Revenues fell by 7 percent in 2008, which is eye-opening considering it was an election year and stations typically see an influx in political advertising.
Besides the Internet, cable news was a sector that flourished, due in large part to its focus on the presidential election, the report said.
Newspapers have failed to figure out how to make their Web sites profitable, Rosenstiel said. They're slow to realize that people aren't going to pay for content in the way they do for traditional newspapers.
But there are still things that can be tried, he said. They could try something modeled after the cable industry, where a fee to news producers is built into a customer's monthly fee for Internet service. They could set up online "malls" for local merchants or create specialized services for information that some in their communities might pay for.
Partnerships have been born because of the tough financial times, such as local television affiliates of NBC and Fox sharing video for breaking news events, the report said.
With layoffs prevalent, power is shifting to individual journalists away from institutions, he said.
Journalists are trying different ways of getting their work out, with Web sites such as MinnPost for arts coverage in Minneapolis. Globalpost.com pays a small fee to keep journalists working across the world.
"The news audience is out there and is in some way growing," Rosenstiel said. "If the industry cannot find a way to monetize that, it may be that individual journalists and others will."
The state of journalism is bleak, but an annual study of the industry suggests all hope should not be lost.
While the business model of many news organizations appears to be fracturing, there's little indication that consumers are losing interest in news, says the Project for Excellence in Journalism. Its sixth annual State of the News Media survey was released on Sunday.
Four newspaper companies have sought bankruptcy protection in recent months, and the Rocky Mountain News in Denver stopped publication.
Yet The New York Times and Washington Post have bigger audiences than ever, when online readership is taken into account, said Tom Rosenstiel, project director. Traffic to the top 50 online news sites rose by 27 percent in 2008, the report said.
"This is not an industry that is dying," Rosenstiel said. "This is an industry that is in disorientation."
Local television news also is in trouble. Revenues fell by 7 percent in 2008, which is eye-opening considering it was an election year and stations typically see an influx in political advertising.
Besides the Internet, cable news was a sector that flourished, due in large part to its focus on the presidential election, the report said.
Newspapers have failed to figure out how to make their Web sites profitable, Rosenstiel said. They're slow to realize that people aren't going to pay for content in the way they do for traditional newspapers.
But there are still things that can be tried, he said. They could try something modeled after the cable industry, where a fee to news producers is built into a customer's monthly fee for Internet service. They could set up online "malls" for local merchants or create specialized services for information that some in their communities might pay for.
Partnerships have been born because of the tough financial times, such as local television affiliates of NBC and Fox sharing video for breaking news events, the report said.
With layoffs prevalent, power is shifting to individual journalists away from institutions, he said.
Journalists are trying different ways of getting their work out, with Web sites such as MinnPost for arts coverage in Minneapolis. Globalpost.com pays a small fee to keep journalists working across the world.
"The news audience is out there and is in some way growing," Rosenstiel said. "If the industry cannot find a way to monetize that, it may be that individual journalists and others will."
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Oy Is This a Putz
Jackie Mason is coming under fire for calling President Obama a schvartza (there is no correct spelling, Yiddish is a spoken language not a written one), during his standup.
Mason is one of my favorite comedians, thanks to years of having him forcefed to me by Papa Poop. Also Master Bates used to have this toy that when you pressed a button it would cycle through some of Jackie's best phrases like "he's a schmuck -- the biggest" and "oy is this a putz."
I don't really think there's a problem with schvartza, it literally means black and most old jews use it all the time, not in a demeaning way. Plus, he's a comedian and black comedians due much worse, as Mason pointed out.
Mason said, "I'm an old Jew. I was raised in a Jewish family where 'schwartza' was used. It's not a demeaning word and I'm not going to defend myself."
Mason is one of my favorite comedians, thanks to years of having him forcefed to me by Papa Poop. Also Master Bates used to have this toy that when you pressed a button it would cycle through some of Jackie's best phrases like "he's a schmuck -- the biggest" and "oy is this a putz."
I don't really think there's a problem with schvartza, it literally means black and most old jews use it all the time, not in a demeaning way. Plus, he's a comedian and black comedians due much worse, as Mason pointed out.
Mason said, "I'm an old Jew. I was raised in a Jewish family where 'schwartza' was used. It's not a demeaning word and I'm not going to defend myself."
I Love the Most Hated Man in America
I love Eric Devendorf, always have. He's a good player, but he has that toughness and edge to him that I like. On a team of talented guys, Devendorf is the one who provides the energy and makes the big plays when needed, as evidenced by his performance against Arizona State. Yes, he makes bad decisions at times when he tries to play too fast, so I understand why SU fans may dislike him.
He looks like a gangster and acts arrogant at times, so I understand why other fans may dislike.
And maybe that's why I love him.
Here's Pat Forde from espn.com:
Eric Devendorf knows what you, the general public, are thinking.
"They probably think I'm an a-hole, man," the Syracuse shooting guard said with a smile on his face. "I know they do. I know everybody thinks I'm an a-hole."
He knows that because he hears it in every opposing gym, and he can read about it online as well. One sports blog, The Big Lead, compiled a list of the five most hated players in this NCAA tournament, and Devendorf was No. 1, followed by Tyler Hansbrough, Greg Paulus, Hasheem Thabeet and Jon Scheyer.
"That's pretty good company right there," Devendorf said, laughing, after shooting Arizona State out of the NCAA tournament, 78-67.
The fact that four of the five are white guys is an interesting sociological discussion for another day. For today, we're only concerned with the guy who tops the list, how he got there and how long he'll be around to irritate America in this tournament.
If being The Villain of College Basketball bothers Devendorf, he hides it well. But once you get past the endless ink, the ant-line beard, the smirk, the occasional potty mouth and an altercation with a girl that nearly cost him the season, everybody's a-hole insists he's an a-OK guy.
"I don't know if it's because of the tattoos or my competitive spirit," Devendorf said. "But sometimes people can get the wrong idea about a person. Off the court I'm a whole different person.
"I'm a good dude, man. I'm a down-to-earth dude."
Would everyone understand that if they spent a day with you, Eric?
"They spend a day with me, man, they'd have some fun."
Fun would not describe Syracuse student Kimberly Smith's encounter with Devendorf on Nov. 1, 2008, near campus. That's when Devendorf allegedly struck her in the jaw with an open hand (Smith's lawyer later said Devendorf did not hit her, and his client's version of the events was misconstrued on the police report). That incident got the Bay City, Mich., native briefly suspended and nearly ended his season.
Devendorf said he acted in self-defense toward Smith, who was the aggressor in an altercation after she got out of her car. Problem was, Devendorf already was on probation with the university for harming another student last spring, according to the Syracuse Post-Standard.
So the school's judicial board recommended suspending him in December for the remainder of the academic year, which runs through May. But Devendorf was reinstated on appeal after missing two games, a decision that has direct correlation to Syracuse's presence in the Sweet 16 and trip to Memphis this week to play Oklahoma.
Last time the Orange played in Memphis was December. Devendorf missed that game against John Calipari's Tigers while suspended. During that time, he was at a crossroads, relying on support from his parents and his AAU coach, Will Smith of the Michigan Hurricanes.
For a kid whose life had revolved around basketball since he was 9 years old, the thought of losing it was terrifying.
(Check out the caption for this picture.)
"I feed off playing basketball," Devendorf said. "I tried to stay upbeat, even though it wasn't an upbeat situation at all. I wanted to be positive, but at times I was negative. So many things were going through my mind at that time.
"I had a lot of thinking to do and had to straighten some things out. I had to be smarter about who I'm around, surround myself with the right people."
Now the father of a 9-month-old daughter, Devendorf said he's conscious of trying to be a better role model. On the court, he's played model basketball for Syracuse -- averaging a team-high 19.2 points in six postseason contests. His consecutive 3-pointers ended Arizona State's last chance to rally and upset the Orange at American Airlines Arena on Sunday afternoon.
Given the divide between Devendorf's value to his team and his popularity outside of upstate New York, he's the classic guy you love to have on your side and love to rip when he's not. Think Bill Romanowski here.
"They don't understand him or know who he is," said former teammate Gerry McNamara. "They think they do but they're wrong. He's the best teammate I ever played with. He would do anything for this team."
In some ways, McNamara and Devendorf are the same guy: stone-cold shooters who excel in the clutch and succeed at a high level in part on moxie and swagger. But McNamara's the guy who shows up in Madison Square Garden to watch his old team in an argyle sweater. Devendorf is the guy who looks like he's a rougher version of fellow Michigan product Eminem.
It was Devendorf who reportedly was told, during his freshman year, to watch his mouth on the court by none other than Big East commissioner Mike Tranghese. It was Devendorf who celebrated his apparent game-winning shot over Connecticut -- the shot was disallowed, sparking a famous six overtimes -- by jumping on the Madison Square Garden press table and screaming an F-bomb into the stands, according to those in the vicinity. And as far as we know, McNamara was never dragged in front of the school judicial board.
So the hate finds Devendorf in every gym. Whatever the reason, it's up to him to deal with it.
"The world is messed up already, and they want to hate someone who plays basketball?" he asked rhetorically.
Sure they do. Since Devendorf is unlikely to sway public opinion to his side, there is only one response.
"We keep winning and people will get madder and madder," he said.
Four more wins would shut them up for good, and give The A-Hole of College Basketball the last laugh.
He looks like a gangster and acts arrogant at times, so I understand why other fans may dislike.
And maybe that's why I love him.
Here's Pat Forde from espn.com:
Eric Devendorf knows what you, the general public, are thinking.
"They probably think I'm an a-hole, man," the Syracuse shooting guard said with a smile on his face. "I know they do. I know everybody thinks I'm an a-hole."
He knows that because he hears it in every opposing gym, and he can read about it online as well. One sports blog, The Big Lead, compiled a list of the five most hated players in this NCAA tournament, and Devendorf was No. 1, followed by Tyler Hansbrough, Greg Paulus, Hasheem Thabeet and Jon Scheyer.
"That's pretty good company right there," Devendorf said, laughing, after shooting Arizona State out of the NCAA tournament, 78-67.
The fact that four of the five are white guys is an interesting sociological discussion for another day. For today, we're only concerned with the guy who tops the list, how he got there and how long he'll be around to irritate America in this tournament.
If being The Villain of College Basketball bothers Devendorf, he hides it well. But once you get past the endless ink, the ant-line beard, the smirk, the occasional potty mouth and an altercation with a girl that nearly cost him the season, everybody's a-hole insists he's an a-OK guy.
"I don't know if it's because of the tattoos or my competitive spirit," Devendorf said. "But sometimes people can get the wrong idea about a person. Off the court I'm a whole different person.
"I'm a good dude, man. I'm a down-to-earth dude."
Would everyone understand that if they spent a day with you, Eric?
"They spend a day with me, man, they'd have some fun."
Fun would not describe Syracuse student Kimberly Smith's encounter with Devendorf on Nov. 1, 2008, near campus. That's when Devendorf allegedly struck her in the jaw with an open hand (Smith's lawyer later said Devendorf did not hit her, and his client's version of the events was misconstrued on the police report). That incident got the Bay City, Mich., native briefly suspended and nearly ended his season.
Devendorf said he acted in self-defense toward Smith, who was the aggressor in an altercation after she got out of her car. Problem was, Devendorf already was on probation with the university for harming another student last spring, according to the Syracuse Post-Standard.
So the school's judicial board recommended suspending him in December for the remainder of the academic year, which runs through May. But Devendorf was reinstated on appeal after missing two games, a decision that has direct correlation to Syracuse's presence in the Sweet 16 and trip to Memphis this week to play Oklahoma.
Last time the Orange played in Memphis was December. Devendorf missed that game against John Calipari's Tigers while suspended. During that time, he was at a crossroads, relying on support from his parents and his AAU coach, Will Smith of the Michigan Hurricanes.
For a kid whose life had revolved around basketball since he was 9 years old, the thought of losing it was terrifying.
(Check out the caption for this picture.)
"I feed off playing basketball," Devendorf said. "I tried to stay upbeat, even though it wasn't an upbeat situation at all. I wanted to be positive, but at times I was negative. So many things were going through my mind at that time.
"I had a lot of thinking to do and had to straighten some things out. I had to be smarter about who I'm around, surround myself with the right people."
Now the father of a 9-month-old daughter, Devendorf said he's conscious of trying to be a better role model. On the court, he's played model basketball for Syracuse -- averaging a team-high 19.2 points in six postseason contests. His consecutive 3-pointers ended Arizona State's last chance to rally and upset the Orange at American Airlines Arena on Sunday afternoon.
Given the divide between Devendorf's value to his team and his popularity outside of upstate New York, he's the classic guy you love to have on your side and love to rip when he's not. Think Bill Romanowski here.
"They don't understand him or know who he is," said former teammate Gerry McNamara. "They think they do but they're wrong. He's the best teammate I ever played with. He would do anything for this team."
In some ways, McNamara and Devendorf are the same guy: stone-cold shooters who excel in the clutch and succeed at a high level in part on moxie and swagger. But McNamara's the guy who shows up in Madison Square Garden to watch his old team in an argyle sweater. Devendorf is the guy who looks like he's a rougher version of fellow Michigan product Eminem.
It was Devendorf who reportedly was told, during his freshman year, to watch his mouth on the court by none other than Big East commissioner Mike Tranghese. It was Devendorf who celebrated his apparent game-winning shot over Connecticut -- the shot was disallowed, sparking a famous six overtimes -- by jumping on the Madison Square Garden press table and screaming an F-bomb into the stands, according to those in the vicinity. And as far as we know, McNamara was never dragged in front of the school judicial board.
So the hate finds Devendorf in every gym. Whatever the reason, it's up to him to deal with it.
"The world is messed up already, and they want to hate someone who plays basketball?" he asked rhetorically.
Sure they do. Since Devendorf is unlikely to sway public opinion to his side, there is only one response.
"We keep winning and people will get madder and madder," he said.
Four more wins would shut them up for good, and give The A-Hole of College Basketball the last laugh.
Home Court Advantage
There has been a lot of uproar about Villanova playing its NCAA Tournament games in Philadelphia, allowable because they only played three games during the season at the Wachovia Center.
While it is unfair -- especially because of the perception -- I downplayed the real impact of the home-court in the tournament, and felt vindicated when the crowd was solidly behind American as they jumped out to a huge lead on Villanova, before blowing the lead and losing.
Action on the women's side though may prove the importance of this advantage.
There were two major second round upsets, #7 Rutgers over #2 Auburn and #9 Michigan State over #1 Duke. Both underdogs were playing at home, and after the game Michigan State's Coach (not Tom Izzo) said the home fans made a huge difference.
We should also point out that San Diego State got smoked by Stanford in San Diego and Gonzaga lost to Pittsburgh in Seattle, though both results were expected.
Who knows how much it really matters.
While it is unfair -- especially because of the perception -- I downplayed the real impact of the home-court in the tournament, and felt vindicated when the crowd was solidly behind American as they jumped out to a huge lead on Villanova, before blowing the lead and losing.
Action on the women's side though may prove the importance of this advantage.
There were two major second round upsets, #7 Rutgers over #2 Auburn and #9 Michigan State over #1 Duke. Both underdogs were playing at home, and after the game Michigan State's Coach (not Tom Izzo) said the home fans made a huge difference.
We should also point out that San Diego State got smoked by Stanford in San Diego and Gonzaga lost to Pittsburgh in Seattle, though both results were expected.
Who knows how much it really matters.
Monday, March 23, 2009
The Diesel-Trey Experiment
With Mrs. Poop and Chase away (and Alison in Isreal) I decided to take Diesel to Billy's house for a weekend of college basketball.
The experiment worked out better than I expected, but not as well as I hoped.
After a couple hours of frantic play, they finally settled down and allowed us to enjoy the Friday games. Eventually they both lied down, and it was nice, except every minute or so they'd go nuts over some noise outside, like a car door slamming or a cotton ball falling.
But when it was time to go to bed, they pined for each other, Diesel was whining, Trey was scratching, and I hardly slept.
So I decided to leave a day early, so I could get some rest.
Diesel got some rest too, he literally did not move from dinner (5:30) on Saturday night, until I took him out at midnight.
But we did get a couple good pictures before we left.
The experiment worked out better than I expected, but not as well as I hoped.
After a couple hours of frantic play, they finally settled down and allowed us to enjoy the Friday games. Eventually they both lied down, and it was nice, except every minute or so they'd go nuts over some noise outside, like a car door slamming or a cotton ball falling.
But when it was time to go to bed, they pined for each other, Diesel was whining, Trey was scratching, and I hardly slept.
So I decided to leave a day early, so I could get some rest.
Diesel got some rest too, he literally did not move from dinner (5:30) on Saturday night, until I took him out at midnight.
But we did get a couple good pictures before we left.
March Madness - Sunday Thoughts
Another great run of late games. A pretty nondescript middle part of the day with Xavier, Kansas and Arizona winning fairly easily.
Then things got interesting. Pittsburgh is a flawed team. They can be had. I’ve never liked them in previous years and I didn’t pick them this year even though this is by far their best edition. DeJuan Blair disappears, especially if you get him in foul trouble. He’s a monster on the boards (six offensive rebounds) but Levance Fields and Sam Young are both more important to the team’s success.
Fields is such a heady player too. Did you see that fluke free throw where everyone thought it was two shots and he snuck in for the rebound? The one thing I do like about Pittsburgh, this edition can score the ball much better when they need to than previous Pitt teams.
Michigan State is an ugly team, but they get the job done. They rebound, move the ball (20 assists on 22 baskets) and they play tough defense.
The Marquette-Missouri game was incredibly interesting. What a shame to see Dominic James like that. I almost wish he had stayed on the bench, not that he embarrassed himself, but he just couldn’t do anything.
I don’t want to hear anything about the pinch shooter rule. The guy they brought in (Kim English) shoots worse from the line (68%) than the guy he replaced (J.T. Tiller, 75%)
Marquette also has no complaint about the baseline violation. Hayward clearly stepped on the line. Tough way to lose a ball game though.
And you can’t help but feel badly for Jems and a game Siena Saints team. Most underdogs when they get down by 7 (55-48) pack it in, but Siena stormed back on a 15-4 run to take a 4-point lead with 5:30 to go. But Louisville, led by the incredible Terrence Williams, who can score if he wants to, turned it on and put them away.
For al the talk about parity this year, the top 12 teams are all in the Sweet 16. First time that has ever happened. The last two tournaments have been two of the most chalk ever.
One thing the pundits got right was the Big East is awesome. First conference to ever get 5 teams in the Sweet 16. But the real test will be to meet or exceed 1985’s 3 Big East teams.
Then things got interesting. Pittsburgh is a flawed team. They can be had. I’ve never liked them in previous years and I didn’t pick them this year even though this is by far their best edition. DeJuan Blair disappears, especially if you get him in foul trouble. He’s a monster on the boards (six offensive rebounds) but Levance Fields and Sam Young are both more important to the team’s success.
Fields is such a heady player too. Did you see that fluke free throw where everyone thought it was two shots and he snuck in for the rebound? The one thing I do like about Pittsburgh, this edition can score the ball much better when they need to than previous Pitt teams.
Michigan State is an ugly team, but they get the job done. They rebound, move the ball (20 assists on 22 baskets) and they play tough defense.
The Marquette-Missouri game was incredibly interesting. What a shame to see Dominic James like that. I almost wish he had stayed on the bench, not that he embarrassed himself, but he just couldn’t do anything.
I don’t want to hear anything about the pinch shooter rule. The guy they brought in (Kim English) shoots worse from the line (68%) than the guy he replaced (J.T. Tiller, 75%)
Marquette also has no complaint about the baseline violation. Hayward clearly stepped on the line. Tough way to lose a ball game though.
And you can’t help but feel badly for Jems and a game Siena Saints team. Most underdogs when they get down by 7 (55-48) pack it in, but Siena stormed back on a 15-4 run to take a 4-point lead with 5:30 to go. But Louisville, led by the incredible Terrence Williams, who can score if he wants to, turned it on and put them away.
For al the talk about parity this year, the top 12 teams are all in the Sweet 16. First time that has ever happened. The last two tournaments have been two of the most chalk ever.
One thing the pundits got right was the Big East is awesome. First conference to ever get 5 teams in the Sweet 16. But the real test will be to meet or exceed 1985’s 3 Big East teams.
There's No Sex in the Champagne Room, There's Job Interviews in the Champagne Room, But No Sex
The Foxy Lady in Providence is where I went for my bachelor party.
Nearly 200 potential exotic dancers, DJs, bartenders, bouncers, managers and waitresses attended a first-ever job fair yesterday at the Foxy Lady gentlemen’s club.
In January, with revenues off by 15 percent, Thomas Tsoumas, the nightclub’s co-owner, cut drink prices in half. As a result, traffic increased and 30 more staff are needed at that club and two others in Massachusetts.
“We’re as recession-proof a business as there is, but when it rains everyone gets wet,” said Tsoumas, 68. “We dropped our prices to what they were when we opened in 1979. Now, a beer or a mixed drink cost about $2.75 and business is up again.
With an unemployment rate of 10.3 percent, the naked truth is that Rhode Island’s economy is among the worst in the nation. As a result, potential employees lined up early and were brought into one of several makeshift interview rooms including the Champagne VIP Lounge, the All-Nude Solid Gold Room and the Private Dance Cabana.
Chamika Chandler, a stay-at-home mom from Cranston, R.I., said she’s an aspiring designer who creates exotic dancewear and hopes to get a start in the club as a bartender.
“If I can get my foot in the door tending bar, maybe I’ll get a chance to show my designs to the dancers,” said the redhead in a short green and blue dress.
Chandler has been job hunting for months, but has found that applicants need lots of experience. “I figured I had nothing to lose at the Foxy Lady,” she said. “I’m sure there are a lot of uptight girls that wouldn’t consider a strip club, so here I am.”
Diana Hatch, a 30-year-old single mother from Woonsocket, R.I., was there to fill one of the waitress spots. The Rhode Island College student was one of a handful of hopefuls with nightclub training.
“I worked as a waitress at a gentleman’s club in Texas, and I know what the job entails,” she said.
Steven Mangum, 29, was one of the first to arrive for the job fair. The Providence resident and ex-con wants a job - any job.
“I’ll sweep floors if they want me to,” he said. “I got bills to pay and I recently got out of jail so having a job is important to me.”
Nathaniel Grist, who works at the Woonsocket Area Career and Technical Center, said he’s hoping to land a part-time and summer gig at the Foxy Lady.
“I was a DJ at my college radio station, and I’m trying to get more experience,” he said.
Asked if he had any concerns about working in a place where women remove their clothes, he said, “This is just another place to work, you go in and do your job.”
While most of the applicants were in their late teens and 20s, not everyone fit that demographic.
Karen Bradner, a 50-something office worker from Taunton, who has been unemployed for a year, also filled out an application.
“Today was my first and only time in a strip club,” she said. “And I wasn’t there to be a stripper or a waitress. I was hoping to get an office job, but there are no openings. It’s really dead out there job-wise. I hope things turn around soon.”
Nearly 200 potential exotic dancers, DJs, bartenders, bouncers, managers and waitresses attended a first-ever job fair yesterday at the Foxy Lady gentlemen’s club.
In January, with revenues off by 15 percent, Thomas Tsoumas, the nightclub’s co-owner, cut drink prices in half. As a result, traffic increased and 30 more staff are needed at that club and two others in Massachusetts.
“We’re as recession-proof a business as there is, but when it rains everyone gets wet,” said Tsoumas, 68. “We dropped our prices to what they were when we opened in 1979. Now, a beer or a mixed drink cost about $2.75 and business is up again.
With an unemployment rate of 10.3 percent, the naked truth is that Rhode Island’s economy is among the worst in the nation. As a result, potential employees lined up early and were brought into one of several makeshift interview rooms including the Champagne VIP Lounge, the All-Nude Solid Gold Room and the Private Dance Cabana.
Chamika Chandler, a stay-at-home mom from Cranston, R.I., said she’s an aspiring designer who creates exotic dancewear and hopes to get a start in the club as a bartender.
“If I can get my foot in the door tending bar, maybe I’ll get a chance to show my designs to the dancers,” said the redhead in a short green and blue dress.
Chandler has been job hunting for months, but has found that applicants need lots of experience. “I figured I had nothing to lose at the Foxy Lady,” she said. “I’m sure there are a lot of uptight girls that wouldn’t consider a strip club, so here I am.”
Diana Hatch, a 30-year-old single mother from Woonsocket, R.I., was there to fill one of the waitress spots. The Rhode Island College student was one of a handful of hopefuls with nightclub training.
“I worked as a waitress at a gentleman’s club in Texas, and I know what the job entails,” she said.
Steven Mangum, 29, was one of the first to arrive for the job fair. The Providence resident and ex-con wants a job - any job.
“I’ll sweep floors if they want me to,” he said. “I got bills to pay and I recently got out of jail so having a job is important to me.”
Nathaniel Grist, who works at the Woonsocket Area Career and Technical Center, said he’s hoping to land a part-time and summer gig at the Foxy Lady.
“I was a DJ at my college radio station, and I’m trying to get more experience,” he said.
Asked if he had any concerns about working in a place where women remove their clothes, he said, “This is just another place to work, you go in and do your job.”
While most of the applicants were in their late teens and 20s, not everyone fit that demographic.
Karen Bradner, a 50-something office worker from Taunton, who has been unemployed for a year, also filled out an application.
“Today was my first and only time in a strip club,” she said. “And I wasn’t there to be a stripper or a waitress. I was hoping to get an office job, but there are no openings. It’s really dead out there job-wise. I hope things turn around soon.”
Sunday, March 22, 2009
These Girls Went to Devendorf's House Last Night Because They Wanted To Be With a Winner
Arizona State may have hotter chicks but Syracuse has a better basketball team.
Syracuse vs. Arizona State
Syracuse 78 Arizona State 67
Huge win for the Orange. They played great. I was most impressed with how they handled it when Arizona State cut the lead to four. They were patient and got two straight good shots. And Devendorf nailed two daggers to put the game away.
Let's go Orange, let's see what happens against Blake Griffin.
1:00 2nd half
The defense is forcing them to waste too much time. 12 point lead with 1 minute to go, that has to be more than 99% to win from here. Make the free throws and move on.
2:14 2nd half
Now this all comes down to free throw shooting. And SU is the worst free throw shooting team in the 64 team field. It's skewed because Jackson and Onuaku are so bad and shoot a lot of free throws. But the same was true of Memphis last year but Rose and CDR were both 70% shooters who cost them the national title with missed free throws.
2:17 2nd half
This is really the first time Syracuse has ever played a Pac-10 team in the tournament? Really? That's very surprising.
2:48 2nd half
Why is Jackson handling the ball? That's a great strategy to foul him. They can't rest both him and Onuaku at the same time. And he hit them both! Jackson has been huge in this game.
3:21 2nd half
Tough call because Boateng was still moving and so far under the basket but I think it was a charge.
3:39 2nd half
I recently read somewhere that if u have a lead of one point per minute remaining you have an 85% chance of winning. Up 11 with less than 4, those odds have to be like 95%. But if any team can lose this game, or at least make it close, it's this team.
4:00 2nd half
Devendorf is on fire!
4:50 2nd half
See that's what they need to do. Take your time but don't kill the whole clock, work until you get a good shot.
5:20 2nd half
I don't like the kill-the-clock offense but SU just played two possessions a little too fast. And both times it was bad decisions by Flynn. He gave it to Jackson too far from the basket. Onuaku's foul trouble won't be a huge deal because he can't play the last 2 minutes with a lead anyway because he shoots so bad on free throws.
6:15 2nd half
Huge 3 by Rautins!
6:30 2nd half
The lead is 4, let's see what Boeheim draws up now that SU desperately needs a basket.
6:30 2nd half
The lead is down to 7 and we're about 2 minutes away from Boeheim shutting down the SU offense. SU is still playing good defense and forcing them into long possessions, but they're hitting everything.
10:19 2nd half
The foul trouble caught up to ASU first with Jeff Pendergraph fouling out. He was open every time against the zone. But this game is being tightly called so Onuaku and Jackson could be next.
14:02 2nd half
This is why I love Jonny Flynn. Things might have started to go astray, he drove and got fouled, then stole theball and got fouled. And both times he made the free throws. That's leadership.
16:47 2nd half
Uh oh, foul trouble for Jackson and Onuaku. Jackson especially has been the difference for SU so far. Without him on the floor SU could be in trouble. And there he goes getting 2 more points. Never thought I'd say he'd be a crucial player.
19:00 2nd half
I know Boeheim isn't a big fan of halftime adjustments, but telling the guys to start turning the ball over more really doesn't make any sense.
Halftime
Great 1st half. They gave up a little at the end by allowing two open 3s and taking a couple ill-advised shots of their own. But so far so good. Boeheim needs to emphasize closing out on the shooters and playing offense from the inside out. They have no answer for Onuaku and Jackson inside. Get the ball into them and let them kick it out to Rautins and Devendorf for 3.
1:11 1st half
I guess I should have warned Flynn about Kuksiks.
2:39 1st half
Devendorf and Rautins are on fire. The defense is swarming. They're getting out on the fast break. This first half is a like a dream so far. Let's pray they can keep it up.
4:10 1st half
They just showed ASU has taken 14 3s and only 5 2s. As long as SU challenges those shots I think that ratio favors the Orange.
5:55 1st half
You don't want Rautins jacking a 25-footer on a fast break but if he's on fire, it's a high percentage shot. Add that with the guards continuing to get the ball down low, Arizona State doesn't know whom to guard.
7:06 1st half
James Harden is closer to 40 years old than 20.
8:10 1st half
SU already has more 3s made in this game than in the first round game against Stephen F. Austin. I love Rautins as a zone-killer. Shooters are streaky so I was hopeful his bad first game will translate into a great second game.
9:28 1st half
Glad to see Kristof is over his diarrhea.
10:51 1st half
The worst part about the zone is that you allow so many offensive rebounds. And the best time to take a 3 is off an offensive rebound. ASU missed both but Devendorf didn't even challenge the second one.
12:59 left 1st half
Beautiful drive and layup by Flynn. SU needs to get out and fast break against this team.
15:21 1st half
Great start by the Orange. they have a huge size advantage in this game and they are getting the ball in down low to Onuaku and Jackson who have six points combined so far.
Arizona State wants to play slow and get the zone to move. They got a couple baskets but so far SU is plaing pretty good defense.
Huge win for the Orange. They played great. I was most impressed with how they handled it when Arizona State cut the lead to four. They were patient and got two straight good shots. And Devendorf nailed two daggers to put the game away.
Let's go Orange, let's see what happens against Blake Griffin.
1:00 2nd half
The defense is forcing them to waste too much time. 12 point lead with 1 minute to go, that has to be more than 99% to win from here. Make the free throws and move on.
2:14 2nd half
Now this all comes down to free throw shooting. And SU is the worst free throw shooting team in the 64 team field. It's skewed because Jackson and Onuaku are so bad and shoot a lot of free throws. But the same was true of Memphis last year but Rose and CDR were both 70% shooters who cost them the national title with missed free throws.
2:17 2nd half
This is really the first time Syracuse has ever played a Pac-10 team in the tournament? Really? That's very surprising.
2:48 2nd half
Why is Jackson handling the ball? That's a great strategy to foul him. They can't rest both him and Onuaku at the same time. And he hit them both! Jackson has been huge in this game.
3:21 2nd half
Tough call because Boateng was still moving and so far under the basket but I think it was a charge.
3:39 2nd half
I recently read somewhere that if u have a lead of one point per minute remaining you have an 85% chance of winning. Up 11 with less than 4, those odds have to be like 95%. But if any team can lose this game, or at least make it close, it's this team.
4:00 2nd half
Devendorf is on fire!
4:50 2nd half
See that's what they need to do. Take your time but don't kill the whole clock, work until you get a good shot.
5:20 2nd half
I don't like the kill-the-clock offense but SU just played two possessions a little too fast. And both times it was bad decisions by Flynn. He gave it to Jackson too far from the basket. Onuaku's foul trouble won't be a huge deal because he can't play the last 2 minutes with a lead anyway because he shoots so bad on free throws.
6:15 2nd half
Huge 3 by Rautins!
6:30 2nd half
The lead is 4, let's see what Boeheim draws up now that SU desperately needs a basket.
6:30 2nd half
The lead is down to 7 and we're about 2 minutes away from Boeheim shutting down the SU offense. SU is still playing good defense and forcing them into long possessions, but they're hitting everything.
10:19 2nd half
The foul trouble caught up to ASU first with Jeff Pendergraph fouling out. He was open every time against the zone. But this game is being tightly called so Onuaku and Jackson could be next.
14:02 2nd half
This is why I love Jonny Flynn. Things might have started to go astray, he drove and got fouled, then stole theball and got fouled. And both times he made the free throws. That's leadership.
16:47 2nd half
Uh oh, foul trouble for Jackson and Onuaku. Jackson especially has been the difference for SU so far. Without him on the floor SU could be in trouble. And there he goes getting 2 more points. Never thought I'd say he'd be a crucial player.
19:00 2nd half
I know Boeheim isn't a big fan of halftime adjustments, but telling the guys to start turning the ball over more really doesn't make any sense.
Halftime
Great 1st half. They gave up a little at the end by allowing two open 3s and taking a couple ill-advised shots of their own. But so far so good. Boeheim needs to emphasize closing out on the shooters and playing offense from the inside out. They have no answer for Onuaku and Jackson inside. Get the ball into them and let them kick it out to Rautins and Devendorf for 3.
1:11 1st half
I guess I should have warned Flynn about Kuksiks.
2:39 1st half
Devendorf and Rautins are on fire. The defense is swarming. They're getting out on the fast break. This first half is a like a dream so far. Let's pray they can keep it up.
4:10 1st half
They just showed ASU has taken 14 3s and only 5 2s. As long as SU challenges those shots I think that ratio favors the Orange.
5:55 1st half
You don't want Rautins jacking a 25-footer on a fast break but if he's on fire, it's a high percentage shot. Add that with the guards continuing to get the ball down low, Arizona State doesn't know whom to guard.
7:06 1st half
James Harden is closer to 40 years old than 20.
8:10 1st half
SU already has more 3s made in this game than in the first round game against Stephen F. Austin. I love Rautins as a zone-killer. Shooters are streaky so I was hopeful his bad first game will translate into a great second game.
9:28 1st half
Glad to see Kristof is over his diarrhea.
10:51 1st half
The worst part about the zone is that you allow so many offensive rebounds. And the best time to take a 3 is off an offensive rebound. ASU missed both but Devendorf didn't even challenge the second one.
12:59 left 1st half
Beautiful drive and layup by Flynn. SU needs to get out and fast break against this team.
15:21 1st half
Great start by the Orange. they have a huge size advantage in this game and they are getting the ball in down low to Onuaku and Jackson who have six points combined so far.
Arizona State wants to play slow and get the zone to move. They got a couple baskets but so far SU is plaing pretty good defense.
I Hope He Takes My Advice
Here's the transcript of the brief Facebook chat I had with Jonny Flynn last night.
OK, so he wasn't exactly forthcoming but it was nice of him to answer me at all. Flynn has been awesome but he has been playing so many minutes that I hope he listened to me and went to bed early. And on the thing about Glasser too. James Harden has a good midrange game so he'll try to get inside the zone and kick it out for jumpers.
OK, so he wasn't exactly forthcoming but it was nice of him to answer me at all. Flynn has been awesome but he has been playing so many minutes that I hope he listened to me and went to bed early. And on the thing about Glasser too. James Harden has a good midrange game so he'll try to get inside the zone and kick it out for jumpers.
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