Prevention Is Better Than Cure

25 or 6 to None

Childhood Memories... good ones, not so good ones, and utter tragedy.

In my childhood I recall school being a pleasurable place, a safe haven away from home, and a place in which a child represented his/her family by manifesting self-respect and self-discipline. A child went to school disciplined, and with respect already in place, because in my years of childhood, children had good "home training," as Jason Singletary would say. Thanks for that term J-Sing. Here is my two cents worth about the shots heard 'round our world.

Some people don't remember the tragedy that took place in Northeast Ohio, 42 years ago at Kent State University in 1970. (Lewis, and Hensley 1998). I wasn't a student there, but I do remember that it sparked enough interest to influence the nation. A well known rock band "Chicago" had a song called, "26 or 5 to 4" that was popular at the time and I still relate that song to the tragic event, and it was a tragedy that was talked about for years. As a youngster I thought the song meant that there were 26 or 5 National Guard personnel against 4 unarmed college students.

The Kent State tragedy involved college students/protesters, and a war in Vietnam, as to where the Sandy Hook slayings involved innocent grade school children, and a young man's mental and spiritual wars. I may not know much, but I do know a few things for sure. A gun ban is not going to bring back the 20 children or 6 adults that were slain in Newtown, CT. It may or may not prevent further or future tragedies, but the odds being against such prevention, say that it will not. Fact of the matter is, that if evil is going to take place, a gun ban will not prevent crime or murder. Timothy McVeigh used a bomb to take the lives of 168 people, including 19 preschoolers at the Alfred P. Murray Federal Building in Oklahoma City, OK in 1995. (FBI 2012). This type of evil has been around and quickly forgotten for thousands of years. Sandy Hook Elementary School, was not a victim of an order from a king that was set in place and neither was the Alfred P. Murray Federal Building. It was an act of evil.

My friend, and fine spiritual brother, Daniel J. Mount, shared a post from David Lorimer on his Facebook wall. In his post, Mr. Lorimer mentioned the birth of Christ, and with expert timing reminded his reading audience about the CHRISTmas story. Mr. Lorimer wrote, "Remember that shortly after (H)e (Jesus) was born, every young child in a whole area was murdered?" How familiar does that sound? The only difference with our tragedy in today's era is that society has made the decree, not a king. Not only were male children slain in our nations latest tragedy, but little girls also. The Christmas story from the book of Saint Matthew told the story of the safe keeping of the Christ Child, and told the story of His people that dealt with an evil, racist king, "Herod," and the slaughter of innocent children. (Biblegateway 2012) I can't begin to tell you what goes through this father's mind when he thinks about the safety of his child(ren), especially when it concerns his daughter.
Then there is the Aurora Colorado, theater shootings this past summer. (Augé 2012) Rumors spread throughout my community with statements saying that if someone else would have had their gun there at the theater that summer night, then the shooter would not have taken as many victims and would not be alive to stand trial. Again I would beg to differ. If, ifs and buts were candies and nuts we'd all have a Merry Christmas, but for the sake of argument what if a vigilante had popped up on the scene? Is it possible that the shooter would have killed the vigilante, and been even more outraged causing him to slay several others? Is it possible that the vigilante would have shot and killed innocent people trying to take down the initial gunman? All of those are possibilities, with the slim chance that the vigilante actually takes out the initial gunman, while preventing any deaths, other than the initial gunman due to his/her carrying their firearm.

Not even capital punishment is a deterrent. The conviction and sentencing of Timothy McVeigh did not prevent the Aurora "Midnight Massacre," the "Sandy Hook Shooting," or the most recent mall shooting in Portland, Oregon. "Witnesses from the shooting rampage said that a young man in a white hockey mask and bulletproof vest tore through the Macy's, food court, and mall hallways firing rounds at shoppers beginning around 3:30 p.m. PT" on December 12, 2012. (Curry, C., & Schabner, D. 2012) Where have we gone wrong with our youth? Lack of morally fit, quality leadership is where.

When mentioning horrific school events, who could ever forget Columbine High School in Denver, Colorado? Which to me was one of the greatest tragedies in our nations current history. (Jefferson Co., Sheriff's Dept. 2012) The young men plotting against fellow students at Columbine used guns and explosive devices. Therefore, again I pose this question; does a gun ban help our nation and the families that are mourning?

I once sat in church and a pastor said this about those die hard gun activists;
You claim to be faithful Christians, yet you place your faith in everything but Christ! Guns, coffee, and material things hi-lite your mornings/days. Do you truly have faith? If you have faith, then trust God and call on Him. Call on Him and you won't have to call on your police department that might show up late, but that you are still blessed with. Call on Him, and you won't have to regret not calling on him when your gun misfires! He's an on time God, that is never late.
The pastor didn't say that he was anti-gun, just that he didn't place more faith in his guns, than his God.

I had a dear friend, upset over the shootings at Sandy Hook, say that they did not believe in abortion, but if the shooters' mother had aborted him, then those children, teachers, and his own mother would be alive today. We're human and the human side tends to get the best of us at times. Again, possibly that holds true, but the probability of the matter says that it was their appointed time to go, and some other tragedy, or gunman would have claimed each life.
You want a solution to the tragic shootings? Integrity, is the solution. Train yourself, be self-disciplined, and while instilling that along with good moral values in your child(ren), then the shootings will lessen, if not end altogether. I'll conclude with quotes, and a personal story.
"Baptism, you two are dumber than a bag of hammers!" ~Everette McGill (IMDb 2012) "Baptism, some go in a dry devil, and come out a wet one!" ~Pastor Baker

Have you noticed, like I've noticed that the neighbors in most news interviews say, "He/she seemed like such a sweet kid, we would have never expected that he/she would do such a horrible thing.
As a volunteer coach it makes your heart feel good to hear a kid and his family say that they appreciate what you do. Yes, it feels good to not only know for yourself, but to hear that your kids and parents find that you are positive, that you are motivating, and that you show a genuine love for them both, kids and parents included. As a former coach and former youth minister it makes your heart sink to think that you gave a kid a second chance only to be slapped in the face by the entire family later on in life. We all have struggles and don't exactly know of each others exact struggles. We can at times, however, empathize to a certain degree, and make the effort to be civil, and understanding, rather than eager to hate someone. A hate that leads to loss in friendship which to me is tragic enough, but could also lead to a tragedy that involves a family, a community, or like the tragedies of the events mentioned above, a nation.

I overlooked the testimony of one student about another diabetic student stabbing a hypodermic needle into an activity bus seat at him on the way to a game, and overlooked the action of the same needle handling student later trying to intimidate other younger students at a practice in the same way on the practice sidelines, that he did on the activity bus. I overlooked it because the young man was respectful. When asked to put his needle away he respectfully apologized and put the needle away. He was a smart, well mannered young man, and was a good friend of mine. He, also at that time, had a position on the team to lose. Recently we had a misunderstanding. The misunderstanding stemmed from an issue involving faith. Unpleasant verbal exchanges were made, yes exchange means both parties were involved, and it was, well unpleasant. This young man no longer had a position to lose concerning a scholastic sporting event, therefore, felt that it is alright to be disrespectful to myself and former female teachers. In this instance, he was not respectful, and when asked to stop commenting or sending private messages, he refused. I addressed the issue with the young man's mother, simply because I had access to her on the same social network, and no access to his father. I offered up apologies not once, but twice to his mother, and said that I was willing to overlook any further action. I received an opinionated reply that pretty much said that I was not a good man, nor was I good for anything else, for arguing with her adult son.

I'm grateful for learning experiences. Here's what I've learned from the news reports and current events in my nation, and community: evil exists in the smallest towns as well as the largest cities. It exists in the smallest minds, as well as the most brilliant minds. Society often gives diseases and sickness way too much credit. Religion often gives Satan too much credit. Meaning that mental physicians diagnose patients with mental disorders, and might say that some people are bi-polar, or psychotic, sociopaths, while religion screams out that it's the devil. I've come to the conclusion that some people are just mean, and evil on their own terms. The word of God says, "Because your fight has not been with flesh and blood, but with Principalities and The Rulers and The Powers of this dark world and with wicked spirits which are under Heaven." (Biblos 2010) Satan unlike God, is not omnscient, omnipotent, nor is he omnipresent. Satan has demons and uses them well. Unfortunately, with some people, Satan doesn't even have to use those demons, because people are evil enough on their own.

If we desire to see our children safe, we will raise them to be well rounded, morally fit citizens. Don't get me wrong, even the best parents in history have rotten children, but not because of their lack of effort. Those parents that excuse irrational behavior have no one to blame but themselves. No not even their grown children may take the blame. It's all on you "parent" for excusing the early, and late irrational behavior of their children, until the unruly in that child overcomes. Stop the spoiling, the making excuses for your child(ren)'s wrong doings, stop alienating them and not spending time with your child(ren), and stop the nonsense. If you do your part as a parent, you may not save the world, but you will save him/her a lot of heartache, and possibly save them from a negative headline. A headline that reads like the Sandy Hook, or Columbine headlines.

In a perfect world there is no need to be concerned. Well here's an unfortunate, news flash, it's not a perfect world, and child(ren) need their parents to step up, and we all need a Savior. Merry CHRISTmas imperfect world from your imperfect Christian that is not your doormat, but still loves you.

Works Cited

Augé, K. The Denver Post. (July 12, 2012). MIDNIGHT MASSACRE: AURORA THEATER SHOOTING.
Retrieved from:
http://extras.mnginteractive.com/live/media/site36/2012/0722/20120722_105338_UDA-1-20120722-FINAL.pdf

Biblegateway, (2012). MATTHEW 2:16-18 NKJV. MASSACRE OF INNOCENTS.
Retrieved from:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%202:16-18&version=NKJV

Biblos, (2010). EPHESIANS 6:12. ABPE
Retrieved from:
http://aramaic-plain-english.scripturetext.com/ephesians/6.htm

Curry, C., Schabner, D. (2012). OREGON MALL SHOOTING: MAN KILLS 2, SELF IN RAMPAGE.
Retrieved from:
http://abcnews.go.com/m/story?id=17939128

FBI. (1995/2012). TERROR HITS HOME: THE OKLAHOMA CITY BOMBING.
Retrieved from:
http://m.fbi.gov/#http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/history/famous-cases/oklahoma-city-bombing

IMDb, Coen, E., Homer. (2012). O' BROTHER WHERE ART THOU/THE ODDESSY.
Retrieved from:
http://m.imdb.com/title/tt0190590/Jefferson Co. Sheriff Dept. (2012). THE

COLUMBINE HIGH SCHOOL SHOOTINGS/NARRATIVE TIMELINE.
Retrieved from:
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2000/columbine.cd/Pages/NARRATIVE.Time.Line.htm

Lewis, J.M., Hensley, T.R. (1998). THE MAY 4 SHOOTINGS AT KENT STATE UNIVERSITY: THE SEARCH FOR HISTORICAL ACCURACY.
Retrieved from:
http://dept.kent.edu/sociology/lewis/lewihen.htm

Things Aren't Always What They Seem

"Way down in the jungle deep, the lion stepped on the signified monkey's feet..."
Dolemite had a way with words, that's for sure. Well so does Pastor Skip from Calvary Chapel. Pastor Skip once told a story about a man, a lion, and a gorilla, that went a little something like this:

A man named Mic Huge Éttooadees had lost his job, and was on the look for a new one. Mic went everywhere in search of any line of work that he could find. His family was in need, and their funds were fading fast. Desperately Mic went to the zoo, and spoke with the lead keeper, Mr. C. J.  Helpanîmales. Mic said he would shovel dung, clean habitats, whatever they needed. C.J. with deep regret, informed the Mic that he had no openings. At that moment, another keeper ran in, and pronounced an unfortunate event. The assistant keeper informed the C.J., that their gorilla Big Moe had passed away. C.J. quickly turned and called the 6'9" 350lb Mic back. C.J. explained to Mic that Big Moe had passed, and that there was a group of school children coming to see him. So, C.J. hired Mic to bury Big Moe, and put on a gorilla suit and perform for the children. Mic retrieved the shovel and all of the tools he needed to lay Big Moe to rest and also had a moving eulogy for the big gorilla, then Mic climbed into the fur suit to portrait the late zoological icon. C.J. led Mic to the gorilla habitat, and told him not to speak, and just be playful with the children. Mic was beside himself, and ready to perform! Mic went in and examined his area diligently and noticed the lions den just below his habitat. Mic climbed the massive tree in his exhibit and noticed a trapeze on one of the larger branches. Mic walked out cautiously to the big swing, grabbed the wooden dowel fastened to two thick ropes, and began to swing. Mic perched on the branch, looked playfully out at the children first, then down at the lion, and thought to himself, "King of the jungle huh?" Mic pounded his chest and bellowed out at the lion. The lion paced below, looked up, and roared ferociously! Mic kept swinging, and pounding his chest, suddenly and unfortunately Mic lost his grip and plummeted into the lions den! The impact momentarily knocked the breath out of Mic, so he couldn't cry out even if he wanted to. The lion stalked him, almost as if to torment him for mocking him from above. The lion inched closer, and closer, and Mic crawled away from him trying to catch his breath, and regain his composure. He scampered backwards frantically until his back hit the concrete barrier. The lion placed one huge paw over Mics shoulder and roared! Mic fought with every ounce of courage in his being to keep from screaming, now that he had his wind back, because he didn't want to disappoint the children or the zookeepers. Then the lion placed the other paw over his shoulder, and let out another ferocious roar. It was at that moment Mic cracked, and screamed, "Please, please someone stop him!"The lion quickly placed one of his paws over Mics mouth and whispered in his ear, "SHUT UP man, what are you trying to do get us both fired!?"

And the moral of this story is that things aren't always what they seem.

Part 2 hopefully tomorrow... on the Imperfect Christian Blog... The imperfect one will share an experience that taught a valuable lesson.

Three Crowns for Seven (Answers to Triple Crown Winners)

His Royal Airness

If you read the previous blog: http://blogwieser.blogspot.com/2012/07/ncaa-title-nba-title-olympic-gold.html  you now know that, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Michael "Air" Jordan are two players that have won NCAA and NBA titles, as well as an Olympic Gold. So can you name the other five without looking at the link? Of course you can't or you wouldn't be back! Here are your hints again...

First hint a gimme is Magic Johnson. Magic was the only player to win the NCAA title as an underclassmen, and the tournament MOP, while winning an NBA title as a rookie and being the only rookie to win the MVP award in a title series, where he played three different positions. He is also the only retired NBA player to go on to win an Olympic gold medal.

Magic was also one of the coaches, but there are three more. Out of those three, two were collegiate, Olympic, and pro teammates. One was a player coach. Magic and Michael are/were owners, and own different sports teams outside of their expertise as players. Still don't know who the others are? I didn't either, and you would have to be a real sports junkie to figure out who they are!
  

 According to the experts, the link below has all of the triple crown winners:

http://www.thepostgame.com/blog/list/201207/basketball-triple-crown-ncaa-nba-championships-olympic-gold-medal#1

NCAA Title, NBA Title, Olympic Gold...

Which seven players went on to win NCAA titles, NBA titles, and Olympic Gold? Here's a hint, my favorite player is one of the seven (pictured below), and one of my favorite schools has a player involved, and one school has two players from the same seasons! Four went on to coach, one was a player coach, two became owners, and two have gone on to own other sports franchises. Can you name them?

First Time "4" Everything!

Mark Cavendish "Cav" (of Team Sky) raises his hand with a four finger salute to congratulate himself, as he finishes 1st for the 4th straight time in Paris. The reigning world champion is the first but possibly not the last if the man to his right in lime green (Peter Sagan) has anything to say about it. Sagan is only 22 and blew the competition away to obtain the Green Jersey.

Another first, Bradley Wiggins (a teammate to Cav, with Team Sky) holds on to the LCL Yellow Jersey, and rides the lead out train for Cav to sprint to victory, and becomes England's first TDF winner! It was a great day for Team Sky, they finished 1 & 2 in the overall (General Classification), and won the final stage of the TDF. In all honesty however, if (yes if) Chris Froome had taken command in the mountains and not been ordered to wait for Wiggins, Froome could have been England's first TDF winner. Coulda, shoulda, woulda, and if, if's and buts, were candies and nuts, we'd all have a Merry Christmas, but... Froome could have won this year.

Last year also produced a ton of possible firsts:

Frank and Andy Schleck would have been the first siblings (also teammates) to finish first and second, had they held on in the final time trial. As it turned out, it would be a first for Australia and Team BMC's Cadel Evans, as he took the final time trial and the TDF Yellow going into Paris. His celebration a bit more elaborate than that of Mr. Wiggins today, but nonetheless, he was victorious.

Not sure if a team has changed names, and won the team overall yellow, in consecutive years, but (there's that big 3 letter word again) I am thinking that is a first as well! So congratulations to Team Radioshack Nissan Trek (RSTN) for pulling off the team win again this year! 

With that said, it is time for me to venture out on my Madone and ride now, myself! It's hot, but the hot needs me! In honor of Team Sky, in my best Norf side accent, "Tootles..."

The To Do(n't) List! (Who to Keep, Who to Drop...)

Most have "New Years Resolutions," or "To Do" lists. Well today I am starting a "Mid Year Rebellution!" A "To Don't List!" I am also dropping a few things along the (social media) way. And here is the list.

The To Don't List:

10. Don't believe everything at first glance. Dwight Howard is not a Laker, "yet"!
9.   Don't believe everything rumored. Dwight Howard is not a Laker "yet", but Steve Nash is!
8.   Don't make remarks that could misguide the government into believing you're a terrorist!
7.   Don't laugh at the poor sap that only has women friends on his social networks and deletes the ones that don't give him their undivided attention, or their...
6.   Don't laugh at the poor sap that believes that every negative post from the women that have turned him down, are all about him.
5.   Don't post before you're certain that your posts cannot be mistake for something that they're not. 4.   Don't drop it like it's hot, drop it like it's not!
3.   Don't follow anything that, even remotely, attempts to be negative.
2.   Do not watch any professional sports where athletes use performance enhancing drugs. Sports included:

              A) Bicycling
                 a. Tour de Farce
                 b. Giro d' It'sDopia
                 c. Cheata de España
              B) MLB (unless the Dodgers are playing for the Series)
And the #1 Don't....

1. Don't finish with a don't! The only pro sport that I can watch is basketball. The NBA is good to go. Their athletes take performance altering drugs, not performance enhancing ones. I don't have to worry about asterisks, or titles changing hands 10 years after they played the title game! Go Lakers, and Howard is not a Laker, yet!

Armstrong's Statue of Liberty vs. USADA's Statute of Limitations

Professional Bicycling has consistently taken a black eye due to doping. Doping allegations left and right, have tarnished the image of professional bicycling. One would have to wonder how much more cycling can take until no one takes it seriously ever again. Especially the majors, like the Tour de France (TDF), the Giro d' Italia (The Giro), or the Vuelta de España (The Vuelta).

The UCI (International Cyclist Union) says that doping dates back as far as the 19th century and was used "to make the physical effort more tolerable, rather than to improve their performance." Rumor has it that dating back to 1896 that riders like Englishman Arthur Linton, who died from possible drug induced symptoms. Exhaustion and typhoid were given credit for the Welch riders death, with speculations that say drugs (caffeine, cocaine, and strychnine) were involved. That's a lethal combination, and bound to potentially make anyone's heart burst!

In the 1930's race founder, and author of L'Auto (paper/magazine publishing), Henri Desgrange was rumored to have written publicly, to the riders, after making changes to the TDF rule book, stating that drugs would not be complimentary, and that riders would be responsible for getting their own. With the way things are going in cycling now, would it just be easier to let riders dope, and call it survival of the fittest? I can only imagine how the viewing numbers would increase. "Doping allowed in the 2015 Tour!" I can almost see a morbid fan base taking bets on which rider would kill over first. I think that would be bet on more so than whom it was that would win the race.

However, it was said to be "common place" for riders to dope to make the physical effort more tolerable. Since then and highly due to the 1967 incident involving rider Tom Simpson, anti-doping took a serious turn. There was a "List of Prohibited Substances," put into place. The UCI states that the publication of the first "Medical Control Rules" was "the forerunner of the Anti-Doping Rules."
http://www.uci.ch/Modules/ENews/ENewsDetails.asp?id=MjMz&MenuId=MTYxNw&BackLink=/Templates/UCI/UCI5/layout.asp?MenuID=MTYxNw 

Miguel Indurain  won five consecutive Tour de France titles, from 1991-1995 (which at the time tied the record for most overall, and broke the record for consecutive Tour victories), was also accused of doping. Indurain was most likely accused because of his dominance during that time frame, but never tested positive.

Then the man that ended Indurain's reign (Bjarne Riis) admitted to doping, and said, ""My yellow jersey is in box at home, you can come and collect it," concerning his participation in the 1996 Tour. "What matters to me are my memories." http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/former-tour-de-france-winner-riis-admits-doping

Indurain, Riis, Ulrich, are just a few on a long, almost innumerable list of riders that have either tested positive, or been accused of doping.   Limitations (statutes) are mentioned, evidence is mentioned, and now even taxpayer money is now an issue. Mentioning taxpayer money brings up Senator Sensenbrenner from Wisconsin's fifth district. Not only have cheating riders, and the accusations from cycling's anti-doping agencies helped to give cycling a proverbial blackeye, but now it appears that a Wisconsin Senator is trying to make a bid, to defend a company that could very well be in his district in the upcoming year.

The case against Lance Armstrong is loosely linked to Wisconsin, because of Trek. Taking Contador's title may not tarnish Trek's image as badly, or lessen its prowess in the sport, but take Armstrong's seven Tour titles, and now you've cut that company deep. It may not severe an artery that is unstoppable, but it does leave a very deep wound, that will bleed out heavily. I have to admit that I looked into the borders of District 5 to see if Senator Sensenbrenner had a paid dog in the fight, and Waterloo is not in his immediate territory. It is however, still in his state. Plus, and I know one can't rely on hearsay, but is it true that a Trek facility in Whitewater, Wisconsin would soon be in Senator Sensenbrenner's district? Will this Whitewater plant actually be in his district this fall, or is that just another attempt of a lying portion of the opposition trying to be just as misleading as the government that they are speaking out against?

The sport of cycling needs a boost, not another blackeye. Groups ride out five or six minutes ahead of the peleton, and then the peleton reels them back in. You might have a sprinters finish in a few stages that might present excitement in some stages, but other than that, only the time trials seem to present any real excitement, or climactic finish. As Sean Kelly said in this years Tour: radios have taken away from the riders since of urgency concerning breakaways. Some riders seem more apt and capable of making up ground faster than others also.

French rider Rémy Di Gregorio, of team Cofidis was taken into custody from his hotel room by the authorities before Stage 10 of this years Tour, for allegedly doping. He was dismissed from his duties from Cofidis as well. Of course this is a man that went from one-hundered and seventy-fifth place, More than just a handful of minutes down to the race leader, and moved into thirty-third place in eight days. In most cycling events and circumstances, that's a bit beyond lucky. Any rider that does something so superhuman and freakish beyond reality, should expect that they are going to be tested. They have no worries if they are clean. If not, they should, like Di Gregorio, be taken into custody.

I have to admit that I am not a huge Lance Armstrong supporter. I think what he has done for cancer research is fabulous, however, in that I am a huge fan. I understand that big names usually have big egos to match the name, but being rude and overly egotistical is another thing. Fan or not, though, he was a very talented athlete, and king of the Tour after his cancer was overcome. Armstrong said that he was notified by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) last week about doping allegations brought up against him. These are charges that he has faced before, and charges that were dropped by Federal Investigators. Armstrong borught up some points that were very interesting: "These are the very same charges and the same witnesses that the Justice Department chose not to pursue after a two-year investigation." He also said, "Although USADA alleges a wide-ranging conspiracy extended over more than 16 years, I am the only athlete it has chosen to charge."
http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/armstrong-charged-with-doping-by-usada

So why would the USADA pursue events that have already been dismissed by Federal Investigators, and not pursue the teammates or other riders that were involved?




"These charges are baseless, motivated by spite and advanced through testimony bought and paid for by promises of anonymity and immunity."


"I have never doped, and, unlike many of my accusers, I have competed as an endurance athlete for 25 years with no spike in performance, passed more than 500 drug tests and never failed one. That USADA ignores this fundamental distinction and charges me instead of the admitted dopers says far more about USADA, its lack of fairness and this vendetta than it does about my guilt or innocence." Lance Armstrong

500 tests and never failed, or tested positive once, and now this same group of witnesses and the USADA get a crack at him? How many times can you accuse, or try someone, and for how long? If someone is guilty, then they should be punished, but at what length does one go to prove someone guilty when so many others have already proven one innocent? Two years with the Justice Department, and still nothing?

The USADA says that Armstrong was involved in a conspiracy dating back to to 1998, and it comes forward to current date. The USADA says because of that, they have no limits and jurisdiction over Armstrong's case, and career.
http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/us-congressman-questions-role-of-usada-in-armstrong-case?ns_campaign=news&ns_mchannel=rss&ns_source=cyclingnews&ns_linkname=0&ns_fee=0

If Armstrong retired, and the Justice Department, and Federal Investigators abandoned this case, and Armstrong has passed over 500 tests, what's left to prove? The only thing left to prove is that there needs to be a vast improvement in testing. Cycling can't survive at this rate.

True Intentions

Again, I have to ask... what are your true intentions? To help others, or to help yourself. How long do those intentions last, how long should they last?

I use the Ali-Frazier fights as a lead example when it comes to hype. Ali could sell a fight like nobody else. Well lookout world, if trash talking had a champion, Chael Sonnen would be champ hands down. His gift of gab is second to none. Chael can hype up a fight. Was Chael trying to create a bigger payday for Anderson Silva, and himself? Was Chael just trying to gain that much of a psychological advantage? Is Chael really that much of an obnoxious goon, that no one could stand to be around him? I don't know Mr. Sonnen personally, and his words are his words, he is gifted with ridiculous dialect, and puts on a good show. I am a fan, not a direct recipient of the trash talking, and if I were, I'd be Anderson Silva, and looking to shut his mouth. 

I don't know Mr. Silva either, but I do know one thing, if you ever wondered how humble a true champion can be, you can stop wondering now. I don't mind fighters using a translator, because the fighter can express himself from the heart in his native tongue, and not be misunderstood. Not misunderstood that is if the translator does his/her job correctly. On the other hand, the interviewee needs to give the translator a true and wholesome message to relay. I think the champ humbles himself, as usual, pretty well in this video. 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2m60zq0o-I&feature=BFa&list=HL1341811382

Most of these guys have larger than life egos, and you can see that Chael comes by it honestly, if you watched the post fight footage featuring Chaels father. Chael is the spitting image of his dad, and his attitude seems to be a direct reflection of his father. His father sounded a lot like me after a game, however. So I had to check myself at the door. Chael's father gave him a heavy critique and said he messed up bad when he threw that spinning back fist so wildly that he sent himself to the canvas! But he also told him to keep his head up, he still had the greatest family in the world, and was the best looking fighter in the UFC! Proud, and good father, whether you like the elder Sonnen's tact or not, he manifested the heart and toughness of a great father. You have to admire the bond and the understanding this father and son have.

Kudos, to both champ and challenger after an epic verbal battle, and a pretty gutsy physical battle. Sonnen, humbled himself very well, and the champ did so as well. I also have to say that I take my hat off to Silva for humbling himself and saying that he wanted no part of beefing up to meet "Bones" Jones. I'll say this for GSP, he can humble himself any day now, and say that he doesn't want any part of Anderson Silva. So post fight thoughts? Mine conclude with, "Bravo gentlemen, well done!"

The Intentions of Management (Cycling)

For those of us that have never been there it's easy to make assumptions, or point fingers, even give our point of view. However, I have to ask the question again, with what intention? Alain Gallopin the sporting director/team manager for cycling team Radioshack/Nissan/Trek (RSNT) former, but somewhat partially still Trek Leopard (because of funding and connection to Luxembourg) was questioned about his decision to add his nephew (Tony Gallopin) to this years Tour de France (TDF). What I question more, is the team using Nissan as a sponsor over working with Mercedes Benz. Although, I'm pretty certain that their reasoning is probably because Specialized (a main competitor) is in cahoots with McLaren (which is a division or closely related to Mercedes Benz). Gallopin the director, chose Gallopin the nephew and rider, because Tony Gallopin the rider, earned his spot, and also gave the injury plagued RSNT team a bit more variety. Tony has already had some impressive U23 victories, is a complete rider, climbs well, sprints well, and is also in second place for the Best Young Rider jersey in his first TDF. So well done director! The link below will take you to the Tours page, and you can click "Classifications" and then go to the "Best Young Rider" category and check Tony's progress. If I pull for anyone else in that category it would have to be BMC's Tejay Van Garderen, a young American rider. Van Garderen's getting plenty of education, one could only imagine, riding under the tutelage of seventeen time TDF contestant George Hincapie, and 2011 Tour de France winner, Cadel Evans. So again not to get off track, yes the Gallopin's are family, but I think it was a sound choice, even if they are family to give RSNT a shot at winning multiple jerseys in this years tour. RSNT is the top team in the field now, and now own yellow as a team. They have had a member in yellow, for all but one stage of the TDF this year, with their three top riders having the lowest time combined after today's Stage 8, they now have yellow again, this time as a team. Therefore, I applaud Alain Gallopin's choice. Tony looked very strong today, and is now less than fifty seconds away from the White - Best Young Rider's jersey, and his team a half a minute up on Britain's Team Sky, although, Sky's Wiggins took the individual (General Classifications) yellow from Trek's Fabian Cancellara in Stage 6. The intentions were to build a stronger team, now, and for the future, and that is being manifested with every stage in this tour. Well done Mr. Gallopin, well done RSNT!

http://www.letour.fr/le-tour/2012/us/classifications.html 

The Intentions are What Count

I am a fight fan, but not a fan of unsportsmanlike conduct. I was looking at the Silva - Sonnen video for UFC 148, and it left a very bitter taste in my mouth. When people do things to hurt others it's never good. Hype is hype, but but there is no excuse for ignorance. No matter how anyone looks at it, it's the intentions that count. In all walks of life what really matters, is what intentions are used in a person's actions. In sport, in career, in spirituality, in body, mind, and soul.

A person may give one thousand dollars in church, but for what? "I made ten-thousand dollars this pay period, therefore, I have to tithe one thousand dollars," says a parishioner. Really, is it a have to case? God loves a cheerful giver, one that gives from the heart. God does not glory from the person that gives with the thought, or intentions of a return.

Why do the much younger male drivers stop on the roadside to help out the much younger attractive women? Why is it that most younger male drivers will only stop for a more mature woman if they see that she is a filthy rich, widowed woman? Perhaps the younger male driver felt she needed a helping hand right? No, his intentions were to help them both feel good about his so called good deed, so he could help them out of some sort of return, and the returns are givens, so use your imagination on those.

Returns are great when they are earned and sought after with the proper intention. Paydays are also great, and sometimes fighters and celebrities have to hype things up a bit, to produce a bigger payday. Muhammad Ali referred to Sonny Liston as a "big ugly bear." Yes your honor I will get to my point, and this is all relevant, I promise. When the "Fight of the Century" took place between Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali, Ali said that he hyped up the fight, by calling Frazier a "gorilla." Ali said later, as he and Frazier had both matured, that he never meant anything by it. Ali said that he was just trying to sell the fight. Ali's intentions were to gain a huge payday for Frazier and himself, but the unintentional things that took place were the things that Joe Frazier never really got over. Ali said those things about Frazier for one particular reason (a better payday, and psychological advantage), and what took place was a psychological scarring that took Joe Frazier a lifetime to forgive. Not so much to forgive Ali for what he did to him, but what Ali did to his children and family. Frazier said that his children had to go to school and deal with what the other children were saying that Ali had said about him.

"It will be a killa, a chilla and a thrilla when I get the gorilla in Manilla." Frazier angrily recounted how his children were taunted by the nickname at school.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2011/nov/08/joe-frazier

Denise Menz, Frazier's girlfriend said: "I knew it had to hurt, and it infuriated me, " Menz says." Me and my family, and those close to Joe, we knew it was just a bunch of lies. His kids had to face school, and all his nieces and nephews."
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/boxing/story/2009-11-08/frazier-ali-special-edition/51123972/1 

It's evident that Frazier loved his family, and that the material things were not as valued as family was. Unfortunately, in more cases than not. that is far from the truth. What Ali said about Frazier, and how the Frazier family endured all of the hype says a lot about the former champ. It's good to know that those pieces (of the gold medal, and the family) have come back together, and even better to know that Mr. Frazier's peace came back together, before he went on.

"I had my Olympic gold medal cut up into eleven pieces. Gave all eleven of my kids a piece. It'll all come together again when they put me down."
http://www.esquire.com/features/what-ive-learned/wil0104frazier

Sometimes we have to take our scars and move on. We have to get over the embarrassment of taking that beat down (physical or mental), get over the possibility of crying in front of others, and know what matters most... that we learn from each experience! That we get stronger from each experience. That we remember that even though some(one) may have said some nasty things, or done some nasty things, that they are no longer in the position to do so! If they'd like to try, then have the confidence to know that you are strong enough to take one (a thumpin'), or dish one out! So let them puff up if they need to, then take the wind out of their sails! Come earn some of this, big boy, your bully is about to get served.

"Nothin' wrong with an a.$ whuppin' every now and then. You take away the a.$ whuppin's and what do you get? You get people wearin' pants below their belly buttons. I'm tellin' you, you go out these days and see the crack of a young lady's butt. It's crazy, man. They should be locked up for indecent exposure. Look here. See? Suspenders! And a belt! I ain't takin' no chances."
http://www.esquire.com/features/what-ive-learned/wil0104frazier#ixzz1zfyoFDcp

Chael Sonnen has only the risk of getting his pants beat off of him, by talking the trash that he is, but if he backs it up, and stays clean, he could be the UFC's new Rick Flair. I can't say that Chael would be Ali, to Anderson's Liston, but he couldn't go anywhere but up! Sonnen said the following things of Anderson Silva via the Caged Insider video below. "I don't like this guy, that's not a secret. I wanna beat him up, and I'm gonna beat him up... again!"

"That's a lot like America, you know when I was a little kid, I remember going outside... I sit around with my friends, we'd talk about the latest technology, and medicine, and gaming, and American ingenuity, and I look outside, and Anderson, and the Brazilian kids are all sitting outside playin' in the mud."

Chael said he would smack Mrs. Anderson's tush if she didn't make his steak, just the way he liked it!

Neither fighter is hiding the fact, that there is no love loss, but to down the children in a man's country, and disrespect his family? That's totally uncalled for. I loved the Rashad Evans, and Rampage Jackson banter. I can call it banter because it is compared to what Silva and Sonnen have going on. This is an all and all out verbal war, that I really believe will transition into a blood bath, or brutal knockout! I hate to allow morbid thoughts to prevail, but when someone goes as far as to intentionally make an attempt to damage children or talk about a man's family, I pray that the Lord forgives me, because I want to see the offender get exactly what he deserves. Mr. Ali talked smack about Mr. Frazier, and did not mean to offend or hurt the Frazier family. Sonnen, is looking to make a very calm, and usually cool champ rush in and make a mistake. I applaud Sonnen's effort, but if it back fires, then Chael is in for one nasty ride!

You can say a few things about the first meeting between the two. Chael was able to enforce his game plan all fight long, but was never able to finish the champ. On the other hand, the champ was not able to stop him from executing and scoring take down after take down, and landing punch after punch. Regardless or all of that, Chael halfheartedly tapped, thinking should I or shouldn't I!? Then after the fight he said to the ref about his tap, "I believe you." Any man that will quit after a few seconds of punishment, but bully around someone and pound away for twenty plus minutes in my book needs to be very careful. Chael is a tough hombre, no mistake about it, he gets paid to do what he does, because he's good at it, but there comes a time, when you have to think somethings through. So will Silva turn the tables, and beat Sonnen to a pulp, or will Sonnen finish what he started from the first fight?
cagedinsider.com

The Reason Why...

Here is my reason to ride, my inspiration to care, and my reason to love greater! I had not been to the hospital in a long time, and have never been diagnosed with cancer, but when I got sick a few years back, I was determined to stay healthy, and try to help as many people as I could.

Zone Perfect got back with me concerning my ride in the Trek 100, and I am more than grateful. I was hoping to partner with them in Waterloo, and I received the email that I was eagerly awaiting. Now I am patiently waiting for the others to get on board. Then on June 9th I will put the body to work and tackle the 100 miles. I am more than ready to ride!

Aerial view of the battlefield. Battlefield - Waterloo, WI. The Enemy - Cancer. Weapon of choice - 2011 Trek Madone 5.2. Fellow Combatants -Tthousands of other cyclists as well armed as myself.

 

The strategic layout. I am praying for good weather, and for the mind and body to stay on point and focused.100 miles of rolling hills and lots of cows... Yes, cows! Like the Chick-fil-A ones.

 

Prince sang about partying like it was 1999. Sivart Pooknyw is singing about his ride, the Little Black Trekvette. The onyx, platinum and ivory Madone will be bookin' it to the tune of 1998 in the dairy air!

If you'd like to, and are able to donate, you can do so anonymously, and donate as little as $5. Your donations are also tax deductible. Thanks in advance.

http://2012trek100.kintera.org/gotravvy

"My Trek 100" Are U Willing 2 Help Find The Cure?

I have been blessed to have a body healthy enough to take on the challenge of a 100 mile bicycle ride. I will take on that challenge June 9th, in beautiful Waterloo, Wisconsin, at the Trek 100. Riders of all ages participate, in teams, groups, or like myself, as an individual. The Trek 100 works with the Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer or also know as the MACC Foundation. In 1976 former Milwaukee Buck Jon McGlocklin helped organize the MACC Fund. He is also the non-profit organizations current President. One thing I admire about him most is that he is also on the Athletic Board for the Wisconsin Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and has been since 1980. The MACC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to funding childhood cancer and related blood disorder research like sickle cell disease. Their goal is to be "cured out of existence."

I have a seven year old daughter, and every morning that I wake up, and hear her healthy, happy sweet little voice say, "I love you Daddy," I thank God. Not every father is blessed to wake up at home and hear those words from his child. Some parents wake up at the hospital, or awaken at home missing their child until they can get to the hospital and visit with their child. I am hoping to help eliminate any childhood disease that I can. Therefore, I ride.

My page is set up now, and ready to accept donations of any amount, and will be greatly appreciated. The link below is my personal link for the MACC Fund. I will not touch or see one penny of the funds. The donations are also tax deductible as well (hot link above for tax form). Here is my personal link:
http://2012Trek100.kintera.org/gotravvy

God bless you all. Thanks in advance.

Observe & Learn

Over time you can develop a great deal of discernment for life matters. You can learn through observation, & see trends take place, and in some cases make likely predictions. Albeit, nothing is ever guaranteed, with the exception of God being Almighty God all by Himself, you can still see the end result through observation and developing trends.

Some individuals, teams, or groups just have the oppositions number. No matter how hard a person or group tries, there is that one team or individual that they just cannot get past, no matter what! In those times you can see a defeated team, or individual. You can see it in there eyes, or in their mannerisms, and on the other side of the spectrum, you can see the winner claiming what's theirs before the competition ever gets started.

Alexis Arguello was a tough, tough fighter. He fought hard, and stopped some great fighters in his day, then along came Aaron Pryor. Pryor beaming with confidence had Arguello's number. I remember watching them fight when I was a kid, and thinking even then, "Pryor has Arguello on lockdown!" Watching the ref give the pre fight instructions, you could see that the fight was over before it got started. Rocky Balboa (a fictional character) wouldn't always stare down his opponent, and in one of the Rocky movies, even admitted to being nervous before the fight. However, in most cases the Rock came out ready to do battle. Ready that is with the exception of the James "Clubber" Lang (Lang being the main antagonistic in Rocky III) fight. Rock just wasn't ready for that fight, and couldn't get ready for it. The rematch was a different story. For Arguello, unfortunately it was not. The shorter, more confident, and aggressive Pryor stopped Arguello early in both fights.

Tonight I watched Kobe Bryant take on the roll of Alexis Arguello. He had 'an' attitude, and 'a' want, just not the desire. Bryant was caught in a pick while guarding Kevin Durant, and Kobe gave up on the play.  On that play Kobe didn't even try to box out Russell Westbrook (I believe it was, a smaller point guard) who crashed the board hard, only to botch the put back attempt on the missed layup by Durant. The sad thing is, although Westbrook missed the put back, his teammate Kendrick Perkins was there to retrieve his miss, and score. Kobe not only failed to box out his man on the pick, but allowed his big men to be placed at a disadvantage and allow the opposition to out number his front court bigs, and score on his team. He is relentless on getting free on offense so he can get a touch and a shot, but didn't even try on defense. He failed because he did not even try! Arguello at least put on the gloves. Kobe wants to be mentioned with the names Johnson, and Jordan, but doesn't put forth the effort to be deserving of that mention. When did you ever see Magic, or Air Jordan give up? You didn't! They played til the end. Kobe sees his squad down by three with 13 seconds left, and he immediately starts to pout. His attitude doesn't change either. He has to be given the opportunity to be the hero, and hit the game tying three, or be able to cast the blame on someone else. Well he had several opportunities tonight to be the hero, and he blew it. He missed a long forced 3, and wouldn't have needed it, if he had played a little team defense. I love the Lakers, but this is one era that I will be glad to see come to an end. Kobe needs to go. How about Iguodala and two first round picks Mr. Stern? Will the league approve that? Kobe goes back to his old stomping ground in Philly, and the Lakers get to remain competitive, and hopefully pick up a first round player that puts them back on top in a few years.

Onto bigger observations... The Preakness saw the same results as the Derby, today. I'll Have Another, had Bodemeister's number. I'll Have Another ran down Bodemeister, and beat him again, only this time by a nose! On June 9th could he be the first horse in 34 years (and 1 of 12 in the 138 year history) to win the coveted triple crown? I'm going to say yes. I say yes for two reasons. Even though he's a horse, you can still see his swagger, and also because I feel that Bodemeister, and his jockey are going to be thinking, "I have run my heart out, and that joker always shows up in the last 110, and runs past me!" That does something even to a horses morale. I feel that if I'll Have Another stays close enough that he will take a late charge again, and win the Belmont. The only way to beat him in my opinion is if Bodemeister can discourage him with a larger than life mid race lead, one that is seemingly unsurpassable. If not, then I see big brown running them down for the triple crown.

And in life, let this be a lesson. Just because you are midpack during the race, doesn't mean that you need to give up, or throw in the towel. It simply means that it's time to make your stand, by making a charge, and know that every true champion makes a run! If the other guy(s) can take lead, then know that you can make a run, to not only challenge, but go ahead! Be inspired, be successful... Observe and learn.

Saying Goobbye...

George Lindsey portrayed the character "Goober Pyle" on the Andy Griffith show. His character was a big hearted auto mechanic that knew little about much, other than working on cars, and caring for people. He passed away today at the age of 83. A West African Congo word "Nguba" is where the slang term goober comes from. Mr. Lindsey made the word a Southern household name, and a Southerners favorite nickname, for a friend that has done something a little off beat. It is a name that is not easily forgotten and once used often. Goober as in goober peas, peanuts, and a term that I have been called a few times myself is a name that lives on. Goober Pyle (George Lindsey), God rest his soul, he will be missed.

Speaking of great names, the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby had some great names this year as well. This years line up featured the winner, "I'll Have Another," and he may do just that with a Preakness victory! Second place finisher, Bodemeister. Fifth place finisher Creative Cause, followed by Liason, and race favorite Union Rags. My favorite name goes to the eight spot, "Rousing Sermon." However Daddy Nose Best was a very close second on my favs list! Done Talking, Prospective, and Daddy Long Legs round out my Top Ten. I would love to see "I'll Have Another win the Triple Crown. That is the perfect name for the trifecta!

Nothing to do with names in this group, other than Mayweather remaining undefeated winning by unanimous decision over Miguel Cotto, in the squared circle. The name missing here? Manny "Pac-Man" Pacquiao. This should set up the fight that every boxing fan wants, but it's not happening! Mayweather said Cotto accepted the blood and urine tests, and they fought. Pacquiao has said previously, that the blood test is not necessary, and weakens a fighter before a fight. So the only thing note worthy name wise here, is the nasty ones that can't be mentioned in front of women and children. Therefore, I will move on the MMA. Diaz submitted Miller in the octagon, and Josh "Kos" Koscheck lost in a very close decision to Johny Hendricks.

Some familiar names in cycling finished strong today in Italy. It is the first big bicycle race of the year, being one of three Grand Tour events. The Giro (Italy's biggest race) started Saturday, and young American Taylor Phinney won the Time Trial Stage. The second stage was clean and smooth up until the last 500 meters of the second stage, and it was there that the races first nasty crash took place. What was even nastier, was watching Brit and Team Sky hopeful, Mark Cavendish leg his way to another stage victory. Like him or not that man has some killer finishing skills!

A NASCAR name that many are loving to hate "Keselowski," wins at Talledega, and a name unfamiliar to many in hockey (LA Kings), went on to sweep the St. Louis Blues today, and earned a spot in the NHL Western Finals. Nicely done Kings, nicely done!

Last but not least, and to conclude the Lakers should put away another seldom heard of name in the NBA (Denver Nuggets), or seldom in the sense that haven't been mentioned much as true contenders since the names Issel, Vandeweghe and English were mentioned in the same sentence. Go Lakers!

Goobnight everyone!

The Fight of Your Life!

With every new day comes a new struggle. Aluta continua... The struggle continues! If there is struggle, there is a will to survive! Adam Yauch struggled with cancer, like many people do or have done. Unfortunately Adam (MCA) Yauch succumb to the dreaded disease today. He seemed aged, but remained cheerful from what recent photos revealed.

The MCA that I will remember was part of a rebellious young group of New York rappers that pioneered the mixing of two worlds. The Beastie Boys combined a steady flow of hip-hop tunes with some dirty rock guitar, and made the collaboration work like no one had ever dreamed. I can still hear the heavy distorted guitar riff and MCA following up on AdRocks line (Ya pop caught you smoking' & he says no way!) and boldly calling out the hypocritical father in Fight For Your Right with, "That hypocrite smokes two packs a day!"

MCA will be missed, the Beastie Boys have been missed. Should the Beastie Boys find someone to honor the third mic for MCA I am certain that the Beastie following will give that fella a warm New York critique. So to whomever you may be, you had better come correct! Contrary to what Prince once said in a song, all the critics do not love you in New York. To the family and fans of Mr. Yauch, my heart is saddened, and my thoughts and prayers go out for you tonight... God rest the soul of Adam "MCA" Yauch.

Our First & Last Day

To someone (most likely mama) it will be hard to forget the day you were born. I pray that the dash between the dates on your stone is the biggest number on the stone. I pray that all represented in that dash tells the greatest story about your life, and leaves a legacy, that not many could ever forget. I pray that we all live that kind of life. Especially for our loved ones. May the last day be used to cover all of that which I just said above.

So here is a tribute to those celebrating their first day today:

First off, the man who holds the spot light, and that I will not soon forget, my cousin MJ! Mike I love you, and I am proud of you!!! I hope I can show you a glimpse of the good times that your father, my uncle shared with me.

Next up the man who brought you, "The People's Eyebrow," and asked if you could smell what he was cooking! Happy Birthday to Dewayne Johnson, "The Rock."

The last birthday trib is to the man who had his name mentioned in the same sentence on a positive note mind you with the phrase, "Bend it like..."
I chose the first pic for the numbers sake, and the second goes without saying. Happy Birthday Davey B.

Lastly, to a big hitter, and a So. Cal kid that will be missed. He was one of the last Californian's to have a major impact on me, before I made the transition from CA to NC. Three of these guys are around the same age, and sadly the last has left us. A pastor once told me that we manifest our true identity when we are alone. When we sit and examine our hearts, and our minds with no one else around, that is when we see what and who we truly are, and are capable of being. I have had a lot of time to examine the true me here lately, and I wish that someone could have been there for Junior when he was going through this trial. I wish that someone would have been there to remind him, that even when we feel alone, that we don't have to be alone. Physically we may not have another body present, but there is a Spirit to lead your lonely soul. A Spirit that can gently remind, and sooth the weary soul. I've felt Him (The Holy Spirit) a lot here lately, and the conviction is great, but I pray that no matter how great the trial may be, that I see Him that is greater in me than a devil that wants us all to be or think that we are only of this world, and possibly so arrogant that we feel that we are the only soul that matters in this world. When we get to that point, the loneliness can strike full force, and get the best of us. Remember you are not alone. My heart goes out to #55 and his family. A So Cal tribute, and a tribute pic for the good friend and leader that made me aware of Juniors last day... 

Ride 2 Mt. Mitchell

Today was a beautiful day! Got a later start than anticipated, and it was a tad chilly, but still a gorgeous day for riding! I felt pretty good starting out, I'm usually a bit nervous with the longer, farther away from home rides, but still felt compelled to give it a go.

My first encounter was when I caught up with two ladies riding. One was a Trek rider, therefore I felt obligated to compliment her for riding such a fine machine. Couldn't tell what her partner (a more mature lady) was riding, but she didn't seem as thrilled to receive my greeting (hi how are you?), and my not giving her machine props, like I did her younger Trek riding friend,  hahaha! But she wasn't rude by any means.

Listing pics in reverse order, the second pic is from the Three Knobs Overlook. This overlook is not quite the halfway point to Mt. Mitchell, but a pretty view nonetheless. The big arch cloud was the eyebrow of the "Eye in the Sky" that watched over me today. I couldn't resist stopping just long enough to take this picture.

My second encounter came when I passed a couple of Harley riders at an overlook just below Rough Ridge that waved at me, and said, "Aren't you ready for one of these?" pointing at their Harley Davidson motorcycles, and I said in reply, "I had to go with the Wisconsin (Waterloo) carbon, but yeah that Milwaukee steel would be nice on the uphill right about now!" They laughed and gave me a thumbs up and waved as I rode past the overlook. They passed me a few miles later, and waved again as they rode passed me on the way up the mountain.

My third encounter was from another group of riders. One of my favorite people from one of my least favorite place. A place that I have some of my worst memories from! The bright spot in that place was the man in the group that I know as a spiritual brother! Lord let it be far from me to ever have to work in another factory, but if I do, let me work with another man like the one I passed today. He is a great cyclist, husband, and Christian man that I learned a lot about compassion, and Gods' grace and mercy from while I was going through a very difficult time. Love ya Joe!

The fourth encounter was a humbling one! Just because a guy appears to have a little more white hair than the average Joe, and seems a bit more mature, doesn't mean that he can't kick your butt at something! My cousin will appreciate this. The big red S-Works machine and it's tall, slim, very fit rider eased passed me as he greeted me, and we very briefly talked about the weather. Then an oncoming car drove up to us, and I told him that he was clear of my wheel, and he took the line and lead, and steadily climbed the mountain. I stayed with him for a few hundred yards, and then understood, that he was wearing that polka dotted King of the Mountain Jersey for a reason! He was boogying!

The first picture is from my stop at the entrance of the State Park. I paused long enough to think about the four mile climb to the top, get a word in with my family, and have my grandmother (affectionately known as "Grandmama") see me ride to the big mountain, and not see me suffer as badly as I did the last time I made the attempt to ride up. My legs didn't cramp today like my last trip, instead this time I was a bit sick at my stomach, but I made the climb! All in all, a great day for a great ride, and hopefully this mountain will be a stepping stone, albeit a large one, for my training for the Trek 100. Tomorrow I will look to do Grandfather Mountain, or the three county loop to Point Lookout and back home. Until the next time... happy cycling!

Trek 100

The time draws nigh, that Kert and Sivart will journey North, and ride 100 miles for a very worthy cause, "The Trek 100." It is a ride that raises monies for the MACC Fund. The MACC Fund has generated over $42 million dollars for childhood cancer, and related blood disorder research. The Trek 100 site is:

http://www.trek100.org/

You can get answers to FAQ's there, and learn more about the 200+ researchers and physicians that are working hard to combat cancer and related blood disorders for children.

Kert and I will be signing up to register for the Trek 100 at some point this week, or this month, to do our part. I will post a link for donations if anyone is willing and able to help. We are praying for 100 or more friends to donate $10 or more, so that we can raise $1000 for research that will bless these little ones. Any donation size is welcomed, and appreciated, but our goal is at least $1000. 100% of what I take in for the MACC Fund goes to the research for pediatric cancer, and blood related disorders. I receive nothing but the joy and satisfaction of pushing myself to ride 100 miles in the beautiful township of Waterloo, Wisconsin, to help children not only in the great state of Wisconsin, but our great nation, and hopefully one day the world. My reason for riding 100 miles and raising money for such a great cause... I could be that father that is trying to figure out a way to comfort his child while dealing with such a dreaded disease. I don't want that for any child, parent, or family. Thank you for taking time to read the blog, and for any contribution that anyone is able to give. God bless you all.

UNC's Marshall in Shoot Around - Right Hand Man or "A-Team!"

Kendall is testing the hand, more so than resting the hand. Give him an "A" for toughness, but will that prolong his healing, and keep him out of future games, should they get past Kansas today? This is where you (as a team not just a few individuals) have to play error free "A" game basketball. When you can persevere through an injury plagued season and play deep into tournaments you can say you're "a" good team. If you win the tournament you can say you're "a" great team. Therefore, Mr. Barnes, Mr. Zeller, Mr. Henson, Mr. Bullock, and Mr. Underclassman (all of you) had better bring your "'A'-Game" today because when you're "a" great team playing "a" good team it's just "a" game!

Kendall is in the shoot around again, but can he play through the pain, and be productive? I'm praying he doesn't push himself too early, and we have a Carolina victory. Expect a Willis Reed type performance from a gutsy sophomore if the game is close coming down the stretch! My money says he plays limited minutes especially down the stretch if the Heels are close to finishing the Jayhawks or close enough to catch them and finish on top. Either way I just hope Kendall doesn't over do it. Go Heels!

Ugly Is To The Bone!

Was it an intentional (flagrant) foul, and should Creighton's coach, and players get the Sean Payton treatment? You make the call.

If you are Coach Williams, do you play Kendall Marshall on Friday if Kendall says he's ready to go, or do you keep him on the bench? You make the call.

Here's my call...
The cast came off earlier this week according to Kendall Marshall's Twitter update, and he's pretty up tempo about things. On that note, Kobe Bryant played days after having repairs made to his shooting hand, so who's to say that Kendall will not play at least against Kansas/NC State on Sunday barring they continue the path and defeat Ohio? I can say this... if I am Coach Williams (and I am not, and Roy's been winning for years without me!) I bring to the attention of Fridays ref's the UNC - Creighton game and the Syracuse - UNCA game.

A good (clean) hard foul on a drive to the basket means the defensive player does not allow the offensive player (shooter) to extend his arms, and make an attempt at a possible made shot. Anyone that's ever had the ability to dunk a basketball, and has been undercut, knows that a push is not acceptable. Being hacked, or held is one thing, but you don't dump a player on his head with a cheap foul, and push him. The refs can't catch everything, but this year has shown that the striped shirts are very human, and very flawed! Get a grip, bite your lip, and let'em rip! Eject a few dirty players please, and send a message! Henson got his technical, and he deserved it, but it should go both ways. The shove from double nothing on Zeller, and the extending of the right arm that sent Marshall to the floor were deserving of flagrant foul calls, if not ejections! 

Regardless of the then's and that's, this is now, and I, Coach Williams and UNC faithful am a BELIEVER! Two down and four to go! GO HEELS!!!

Marshall's X-Ray Misread, Not Broken!?

OK let's get the ugly out of the way first. Creighton was a very physical team, and were allowed a few too many cheap shots. One could say that's all on the players because at that level they know better, or one could say it's mostly on the refs for missing the calls (especially to double thrust up near the neck and throat area of Carolina's Tyler Zeller delivered by Creighton's big man who with that play characterized his thought processing and age to match his number: double zero), or one could say it's on the coach for encouraging dirty pool, which went above and beyond playing physical, and tough. You can be physical, and even mentally tough, without being dirty. It was a dirty played game at times! OK that's the ugly.

Now onto the bad... the bad is that an injury is an injury. There is no pretty side to that. Not being able to play at 100% is horrible for a competitor, period! Bad is having a crack so tiny, that you can't see it with the naked eye, but it shows up on an enlarged x-ray.

The good... Kendall Marshall doesn't have to score like Kobe Bryant, he only has to be as tough as Kobe! Kobe broke his shooting wrist earlier this season and is still playing, He missed a little time after surgery, but still played. They have Marshall's wrist in a cast, but no ligament damage, so Kendall could still be cleared to play! Football players play in cast all the time. Kendall's presence would be enough to bother a lot of opponents. Plus Kendall only needs to distribute the ball and avoid turnovers, so the wrist may not completely keep him out.

Also on a good note, some hater was just rushed to the hospital psych ward after reading the title to this blog. That same hater that rushed to read the title, then rushed to share with all of his/her hater pals on Google+, and Facebook, and a few more went with him/her. I am not totally morbid! The good in that is that the haters missed their self-diagnosis thinking they were having a coronary, and it was just a panic attack, so they will be fine by the time someone with sense reads the blog through it's entirety, and tells them that the title was a hoax.

To conclude:
The good, Kendall could still play in a few weeks, this is a long tournament. The bad, we have to survive without him, and for even a few minutes without Kendall could prove fatal to the title shot we had hoped for this season. The ugly, got put out in the first round by a school from Bethlehem, PA. Gone now is Lehigh, but thank you for your first round devil removing services, and congrats on a brilliant first tourney win. Go Heels!

March, Why Do I Love Thee So?

1. I get to pass gas and not get in trouble, or freeze my toocus off!

2. The UCI gears up, and I get to watch my favorite Trek riders win races! Fabian won the last stage an ITT (individual time trail not a computer) at the Terrino-Adriatico, and his teammate Daniele Bennati finished in second behind him. American rider and teammate Chris Horner placed second in the overall GC (General Classification), so a decent start so far. Waiting on the Grand Tour and State side races now.

3. March Madness!!! NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament! GO HEELS!!!

4. The Grass is greener in March for me, because of seasoned Grass! IBMA winners, Dove nominees, and hopefully a few winners there also, and don't even get me started if a Grammy comes this way!

5. The Daytona 200!!! Sepang Testing!! And nearing 200hp on a 250lb machine! Exhilarating is an understatement! Bring on the AMA, & Moto GP baby!

The down side of March:

I'm not on any of these lists as a pro, or an artist, and fans also have to deal with the drama of the NBA Trade Deadline (March 15th), and deal with whining politicians. Although, I have to admit it is fun watching the politicians squirm! (At least in NC at this time they are usually campaigning heavy for May elections!) So any players with a mouth big enough to stick their foot in it? I know of at least one!

"I want to go somewhere, where I can win it all! I will exercise my options and see what gives! Oh wait, I am not Kobe Bryant am I!? I do have some leverage, but not like that yet, or do I? Hey wait we have beaten up the so-called 'Bigs' of the Eastern Conference! We took down Miami, and Chicago... hmmm, hey wait Mr. Owner Meign! I know trade deadline is today, but I don't want to be traded until after I see whether or not we can win it all this year!"

Then there is your politician:

So and so, is scum! You can't trust him/her! I will change everything but your name, and social security number to make things better for you, if you will just vote for me! Don't listen to them! That is a liberal/conservative new broadcast, you can't trust them! (A day later and several $100's later) Watch me on this great liberal/conservative broadcast! Oh and don't forget to pick up a copy of that paper (God I hope-because I forgot how to pray, that they don't remember me bashing that paper too!) that I placed that add in this week!

Yes, March is almost as entertaining as watching a ghetto Christmas!

Enjoy the sunshine!