THE FOLLOWING IS AN ENCORE TIM MOORE BLOG:
When it comes to Valentine’s Day, there is definitely a RIGHT way to do it—and millions of WRONG ways---as men throughout history have discovered. As usual, we have found out the errors of our ways only AFTER the offending act or insensitive gift has been delivered.
As far back as the caveman (whose banishment back then was to sofas made of stone), guys have been mystified by the magnitude of female rage following our boneheaded attempts to court our sweethearts.
Although I myself have no doubt joined in with these “errors of judgment”, (and thereby am disqualify from being an expert), there are some general do’s and don’t that may seem obvious, but their yearly violation by armies of men requires me to repeat this short list:
DO’s
1) This should be obvious, but I’ll say it anyway. DO SOMETHING. Blowing it off is simply not an option, unless you like the feeling of a cast iron frying pan slamming into your head. Ouch.
2) The Big Three are cool, but ho-hum. Flowers, Candy & Jewelry are good, but the jewelry takes top spot.
3) If buying her clothes, be sure to SIZE down. Yes, SMALLER than she really is. See Number 3 of “Don’ts below.
4) Surprise her at work! Generally speaking, however, it’s a PLUS to have the flowers delivered where your lady can display them in front of her co-workers. Singing telegrams are romantic—and a good way to send your love. Strippers are NOT a good choice to deliver the sentiments here.
5) SPEND MONEY. Skimping on cost is not smart. Remember, she shops more than you do and can smell a cheap gift from a mile out. You WON’T fool her. If she doesn’t instinctively know how much you spent, she’ll look it up.
DON’T’s
1) Top of the list: DON’T FORGET. Tie a string around your finger, mark your datebook, write it on the wall. With TV, radio and print advertising impossible to avoid, there is no excuse for taking a whiff here.
2) Don’t get her a vacuum cleaner, a bowling ball, a Swiffer or brand new laundry basket. If you SURVIVE after giving such a gift, the cost of having a Hoover surgically removed from its most likely entry point will make you wish that you’d purchased a diamond necklace.
3) Don’t buy anything that implies she needs to lose weight. A gym membership, a case of SlimFast or clothes in size XXL are simply a death wish.
4) If a romantic meal at a restaurant is planned, make sure you MAKE A RESERVATION. Nothing kills the mood faster than standing amidst other thoughtless men and their dates, waiting for an hour to get a cramped table next to the Mens Room. Nice.
5) Don’t deliver the gift in the bag where you shopped for it. No matter how enticing the item is, it’s appeal plummets when yanked from a plastic WalMart bag.
Clearly this is an abbreviated list, but nevertheless, it behooves all men reading this blog to adhere strictly to the rules of engagement above. Ladies, you no doubt could add to this list—and I welcome your input (as do all men worldwide)
Here’s a humorous ad that spoofs our ineptitude in selecting a proper gift:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pffeMdDSoY
Funny.
Of course, the desired emotion, guys, is LOVE, not laughter. AMORE!
Good luck! And Happy Valentine’s Day!!
If you’d like my blog in your box weekdays, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Monday, February 14, 2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
Hand Dancing: Take THAT, Riverdance!
So, it’s Friday…it’s cold (still) and the world is looking at the goings on in Egypt.
Mubarak is out—and the entire Middle East situation has been thrown off balance. I could blog about this unfolding drama—but since I really don’t know the implications of it all, keeping things light and entertaining is my only goal today!
Thanks to Lorenzo at One City Center News (Portland’s unofficial mayor and wayward playboy) for sending me the video you are about to see. A proud Italian, Lorenzo wastes no time in passing along all things Italian. Some of them are not appropriate for this blog (ahem), but this one will make you smile.
Forget “Lord Of The Dance” Michael Flatley, the heck with “Riverdance”----check out the “hand dancing” in this clip!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iANRO3I30nM
Coordination for this is amazing—and so is the memory to nail every move—in unison!
My hands were busy clapping for these two as soon as they were done.
Have a great weekend!
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Mubarak is out—and the entire Middle East situation has been thrown off balance. I could blog about this unfolding drama—but since I really don’t know the implications of it all, keeping things light and entertaining is my only goal today!
Thanks to Lorenzo at One City Center News (Portland’s unofficial mayor and wayward playboy) for sending me the video you are about to see. A proud Italian, Lorenzo wastes no time in passing along all things Italian. Some of them are not appropriate for this blog (ahem), but this one will make you smile.
Forget “Lord Of The Dance” Michael Flatley, the heck with “Riverdance”----check out the “hand dancing” in this clip!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iANRO3I30nM
Coordination for this is amazing—and so is the memory to nail every move—in unison!
My hands were busy clapping for these two as soon as they were done.
Have a great weekend!
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Man Loses To Machine: IBM Bests Kasparov
THE FOLLOWING IS AN ENCORE TIM MOORE BLOG:
This blog’s title implies that humans coming up short when matched against machines is either a rarity or newsworthy or both.
Not so.
Anyone who has lost a dollar in a vending machine can attest to the feelings of helplessness that accrue when those Fritos are RIGHT THERE—on the other side of the glass, yet unattainable, smugly nestled on their little perch, seeming to laugh at you. Kicking the machine makes you feel better—only until the moment of impact. The site of you hopping around holding your now-throbbing foot only adds injury to insult.
Yes, machines have been pushing us around ever since Eli Whitney invented that cotton-pickin’ gin. Yet, despite it all, we have chalked up all frustrations with machines to man-made malfunctions in either design or construction. The INTELLIGENCE associated only with human beings could never be duplicated by an inanimate object.
That is, until this day in 1996.
The IBM computer named “Big Blue” defeated reigning World Chess Champion Gary Kasparov in the first game of a 6-game match. Although man eventually triumphed over machine—as Kasparov won the match 4-2, this initial defeat laid the groundwork for refinements in the computer software that eventually allowed for a better Big Blue, one that won a rematch in 1997 (3.5 to 2.5)
Although Big Blue could evaluate 100 million chess combinations PER SECOND (my guess is that Kasparov was a tad below this level of performance), the initial machine could not store PAST moves, thereby creating a predictability quotient for the individual player. After the initial match, IBM eggheads went back to Geek Central and improved this shortcoming. The Big Blue that faced our human hero a year later was now able to process 200 million combinations per second AND look backward to past moves.
Kasparov was toast.
Here’s the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJarxpYyoFI
I love chess—and played quite a bit while young. Matches were a slow affair and never did I attempt to play multiple games at once (show-offs!)
Although it could accurately be said that Kasparov was STILL playing against humans—the ones who created the computer and wrote the software, it’s my belief that part of our dignity DIED that day.
Artificial intelligence is now a common term and the capabilities of computers since 1996 are light years ahead. Robots with vision and dexterity are able to simulate much of human movement. Could they eventually replace human beings doing everyday tasks?
Maybe, but none would EVER be victorious against a vending machine that refuses to fork over the Fritos!
If you’d like my blog in your weekday inbox, let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
This blog’s title implies that humans coming up short when matched against machines is either a rarity or newsworthy or both.
Not so.
Anyone who has lost a dollar in a vending machine can attest to the feelings of helplessness that accrue when those Fritos are RIGHT THERE—on the other side of the glass, yet unattainable, smugly nestled on their little perch, seeming to laugh at you. Kicking the machine makes you feel better—only until the moment of impact. The site of you hopping around holding your now-throbbing foot only adds injury to insult.
Yes, machines have been pushing us around ever since Eli Whitney invented that cotton-pickin’ gin. Yet, despite it all, we have chalked up all frustrations with machines to man-made malfunctions in either design or construction. The INTELLIGENCE associated only with human beings could never be duplicated by an inanimate object.
That is, until this day in 1996.
The IBM computer named “Big Blue” defeated reigning World Chess Champion Gary Kasparov in the first game of a 6-game match. Although man eventually triumphed over machine—as Kasparov won the match 4-2, this initial defeat laid the groundwork for refinements in the computer software that eventually allowed for a better Big Blue, one that won a rematch in 1997 (3.5 to 2.5)
Although Big Blue could evaluate 100 million chess combinations PER SECOND (my guess is that Kasparov was a tad below this level of performance), the initial machine could not store PAST moves, thereby creating a predictability quotient for the individual player. After the initial match, IBM eggheads went back to Geek Central and improved this shortcoming. The Big Blue that faced our human hero a year later was now able to process 200 million combinations per second AND look backward to past moves.
Kasparov was toast.
Here’s the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJarxpYyoFI
I love chess—and played quite a bit while young. Matches were a slow affair and never did I attempt to play multiple games at once (show-offs!)
Although it could accurately be said that Kasparov was STILL playing against humans—the ones who created the computer and wrote the software, it’s my belief that part of our dignity DIED that day.
Artificial intelligence is now a common term and the capabilities of computers since 1996 are light years ahead. Robots with vision and dexterity are able to simulate much of human movement. Could they eventually replace human beings doing everyday tasks?
Maybe, but none would EVER be victorious against a vending machine that refuses to fork over the Fritos!
If you’d like my blog in your weekday inbox, let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
The Beatles: A Hard Act To Follow
There’s a bit of musical trivia embedded in the show that most of America viewed on this date in 1964.
The program, of course, was the Ed Sullivan Show---and the introduction of The Beatles to America. This past weekend’s Super Bowl apparently set the all-time TV audience record, but 47 years ago, it was Sullivan’s program that set the bar at over 73 million viewers—a mark that would take years to topple.
Here’s a clip of perhaps the most electrifying song of that performance-“She Loves You”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBnC8REsvwg
An aspect lost to modern audiences is the fact that there were OTHER performers on that fateful night. The first to follow the Beatles after their initial appearance on the show was a magician by the name of Fred Kaps.
Poor guy.
Hundreds of screaming girls in the audience and this guy is in a tuxedo doing card tricks. The size of his audience that night is tempered by the fact that nobody cared about him or his magic.
One of the other performers that night, however, may have appreciated The Beatles more than he could fully realize at the time. It was the Broadway cast of “Oliver!”—singing the song “I’d Do Anything”. The featured young singer was a young man named Davey Jones as the Artful Dodger, who, in less than three years time would star in his own TV show as the lead singer of a musical group whose very existence would not have occurred without the Fab Four-----The Monkees!
Here is that performance:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXu3LS1fmdg
Who knew that that kid would himself become a teen heartthrob? And while the musical contribution of the Monkees cannot be compared to that of the Beatles, they were a pop culture phenomenon---and yet, just an obscure trivia footnote to the landmark TV show on this date 47 years ago.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
The program, of course, was the Ed Sullivan Show---and the introduction of The Beatles to America. This past weekend’s Super Bowl apparently set the all-time TV audience record, but 47 years ago, it was Sullivan’s program that set the bar at over 73 million viewers—a mark that would take years to topple.
Here’s a clip of perhaps the most electrifying song of that performance-“She Loves You”:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBnC8REsvwg
An aspect lost to modern audiences is the fact that there were OTHER performers on that fateful night. The first to follow the Beatles after their initial appearance on the show was a magician by the name of Fred Kaps.
Poor guy.
Hundreds of screaming girls in the audience and this guy is in a tuxedo doing card tricks. The size of his audience that night is tempered by the fact that nobody cared about him or his magic.
One of the other performers that night, however, may have appreciated The Beatles more than he could fully realize at the time. It was the Broadway cast of “Oliver!”—singing the song “I’d Do Anything”. The featured young singer was a young man named Davey Jones as the Artful Dodger, who, in less than three years time would star in his own TV show as the lead singer of a musical group whose very existence would not have occurred without the Fab Four-----The Monkees!
Here is that performance:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXu3LS1fmdg
Who knew that that kid would himself become a teen heartthrob? And while the musical contribution of the Monkees cannot be compared to that of the Beatles, they were a pop culture phenomenon---and yet, just an obscure trivia footnote to the landmark TV show on this date 47 years ago.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Spud Webb: The Little Engine That Could...And Did!
Have you ever tried to dunk a basketball?
Me?
Never been close. Even though I am 6’1”, it would appear that I have a vertical leap of just under 12 centimeters. The adage that 'white guys can’t jump' has never so thoroughly borne out as it is with me. With the basket fixed there at ten feet even, assuming that my arms over my head give me another two feet, I would need to elevate another two plus feet to be over the rim.
Not happening.
But Spud Webb—at FIVE FOOT SEVEN---not only can dunk it—but moreover, won the NBA’s Slam Dunk competition on this date twenty five years ago. He did it by outdunking (is that a word?) fellow Atlanta Hawks teammate Dominique Wilkins, who was the reigning champion from 1985.
Dominique, by the way, is 6’8”.
Nothing short of amazing, but that’s the life and career of Spud Webb, who overcame incredible odds to even make it to the NBA. Coming out of high school with a 26 point per game average, he was ignored by Division One colleges due to his stature—or lack thereof. He went instead to Midland Junior College in his home state of Texas. There, his play attracted the attention of the coaches at North Carolina State University. He transferred there and played for two years.
Despite his college resume, he again was ignored by the NBA. Really, how could anyone nearly a half foot short of six feet actually compete against the sequoias who pace the pro arenas? Hard work, talent and persistence finally earned him a roster spot on the Atlanta team—and the rest is pro b-ball lore.
Here’s a short clip of that memorable 1986 Slam Dunk performance:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5wBI98NXEE
OK, so there’s nothing particularly useful about the ability to dunk a basketball. It won’t cure cancer or stop global warming, but it is a physical feat that can only be appreciated after attempting to do it yourself.
Spud went on to play in the NBA for 12 seasons—and is credited with paving the way for even SHORTER players who made it., including Muggsy Bogues, who is 5’3” and Nate Robinson, who was the second shortest player to win the slam dunk competition in 2006 at all of 5’9”. Spud Webb was on hand for that competition in Dallas—and Robinson LEAPED OVER Webb to slam dunk the ball!
Here it is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gv_F0zS-e20
The lesson for all of us is obvious: don’t let obstacles get in the way of your dreams! Webb (and Robinson) were the Little Engines that said “I think I can, I think I can….”----and DID!!
If you’d like my blog in your box, drop me a line-it’s free: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Me?
Never been close. Even though I am 6’1”, it would appear that I have a vertical leap of just under 12 centimeters. The adage that 'white guys can’t jump' has never so thoroughly borne out as it is with me. With the basket fixed there at ten feet even, assuming that my arms over my head give me another two feet, I would need to elevate another two plus feet to be over the rim.
Not happening.
But Spud Webb—at FIVE FOOT SEVEN---not only can dunk it—but moreover, won the NBA’s Slam Dunk competition on this date twenty five years ago. He did it by outdunking (is that a word?) fellow Atlanta Hawks teammate Dominique Wilkins, who was the reigning champion from 1985.
Dominique, by the way, is 6’8”.
Nothing short of amazing, but that’s the life and career of Spud Webb, who overcame incredible odds to even make it to the NBA. Coming out of high school with a 26 point per game average, he was ignored by Division One colleges due to his stature—or lack thereof. He went instead to Midland Junior College in his home state of Texas. There, his play attracted the attention of the coaches at North Carolina State University. He transferred there and played for two years.
Despite his college resume, he again was ignored by the NBA. Really, how could anyone nearly a half foot short of six feet actually compete against the sequoias who pace the pro arenas? Hard work, talent and persistence finally earned him a roster spot on the Atlanta team—and the rest is pro b-ball lore.
Here’s a short clip of that memorable 1986 Slam Dunk performance:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5wBI98NXEE
OK, so there’s nothing particularly useful about the ability to dunk a basketball. It won’t cure cancer or stop global warming, but it is a physical feat that can only be appreciated after attempting to do it yourself.
Spud went on to play in the NBA for 12 seasons—and is credited with paving the way for even SHORTER players who made it., including Muggsy Bogues, who is 5’3” and Nate Robinson, who was the second shortest player to win the slam dunk competition in 2006 at all of 5’9”. Spud Webb was on hand for that competition in Dallas—and Robinson LEAPED OVER Webb to slam dunk the ball!
Here it is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gv_F0zS-e20
The lesson for all of us is obvious: don’t let obstacles get in the way of your dreams! Webb (and Robinson) were the Little Engines that said “I think I can, I think I can….”----and DID!!
If you’d like my blog in your box, drop me a line-it’s free: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Monday, February 7, 2011
Super Bowl: Ads, Beer, Snacks..Oh Yeah--And A Game
A funny thing happens when you don’t care who wins the Super Bowl—you actually ENJOY the telecast!
Don’t get me wrong—I wish the Patriots had been in it yesterday. Being a lifelong Redskin fan, I also hearken back to those Super Bowl glory days—looking forward to the day when the ‘Skins make another appearance.
I may be a grandfather before that happens.
Anyway, the absence of adrenalin, stress and anxiety made for a rather enjoyable evening. Had I a “horse in the race”, I would have OD’d on pre-game hype, seeking out the keys to victory for my team.
Yesterday, I didn’t care. Packers. Steelers. Whatever.
I actually thought the Steelers would win. After they handled the Jets, who had embarrassed the Patriots, I truly believed that Pittsburgh was just too good on defense and too multi-faceted on offense to lose. I think “Big Ben “ is a big jerk, but I really like the coach Mike Tomlin and the entire Steelers organization.
After all, the Green Bay Packers were mostly dependent on Aaron Rodgers. Ring his bell a couple of times and he becomes a different player. I thought the Steelers would actually risk giving up a big play or two in exchange for a couple of blitzes that would leave Rodgers on his back. Had they done so, I believe another outcome would have resulted.
Regardless, it was a pretty good game—and Pittsburgh’s furious comeback in the second half kept things interesting. The telecast was OK—I give it a B+.
The Super Bowl has the distinction of keeping you tuned in mentally when the commercial breaks happen. In fact, fans seem more likely to take their bathroom breaks during a lull in the action rather than during the spot breaks.
While I thought the commercials were below average this year in entertainment value, there were a few good ones, including the following CareerBuilder.com ad-featuring the ever-popular chimps:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRDx18GYITw
If I were the NFL Commissioner, I would have instituted on the following changes in yesterday’s spectacle:
1) Count the seats before you sell tickets. Hundreds of ticket holders were denied entrance yesterday---forced to watch the game OUTSIDE on big screen TV’s. Embarrassing.
2) Audition whomever you choose to sing the National Anthem. Whoever it is should both know the words and refrain from changing the note progression of the song itself. Francis Scott Key might not have recognized what happened Sunday as his composition. I like Christina Aguilera, but she botched the deal in front of millions upon millions.
3) The Medal of Honor winner who got a brief minute in the spotlight during halftime should have had a more prominent role—like flipping the coin. OK to have Deion Sanders out there with the other Hall of Famers, but choosing him to flip the coin was a mistake.
4) The Black Eyed Peas. Decent visually in what is historically a horrible setting for any coherent musical performance, but Fergie (whom I actually like) was off-key. As the years go by, it becomes harder to choose a top-level act. While the Super Bowl attracts a cross section of America, my bet is that over 80% of the audience both inside and outside the stadium would not call themselves “fans” of will.i.am and the crew. The Who (perhaps a better fit demographically) were stale last year. Who will it be next year? Start looking NOW.
5) Tell John Madden that the former President and First Lady were sitting NEXT to him, so texting (or playing Madden 2011) on his smartphone when the cameras peeked into the VIP box was bad form. Funny, but rude.
6) Dispense with the ridiculous “spoofs”—like the one featuring Shaquille O’Neal. I realize that Fox has a lot of time to fill, but really?
7) Think about who is appearing with who. Sending former Dallas Cowboy great Roger Staubach to the podium with the Vince Lombardi trophy had to be Jerry Jones’ idea, but did he not realize that Roger the dodger would be handing it off to Fox Sports analyst (and former nemesis Terry Bradshaw). These two hate each other from all reports—and while we could hear the stilted pleasantries, it was clear that Roger couldn’t wait to leave.
8) Start the kickoff at 4pm so kids can stay up and watch the whole game. I understand the desire to hit “prime time”, but really—the audience for a Super Bowl wouldn’t be LESS if played earlier. More people who have to work or go to school the next day (everyone) would get to watch the entire game. The other upside is that the hosting network would have a huge lead-in at a REASONABLE hour to showcase their pet show, which always follows the post-game show.
I’m sure you have other suggestions as well.
Given the winter weather in Dallas this past week, the fact that there was no security incident or major power failure means that the NFL will call this a big success. Haven’t heard about the ratings yet, but likely less than had the Jets or Patriots been playing Chicago.
For me, the chips and dip were good, the beer was cold—and there was no stress over the outcome.
Next year,however, wil be a different story. I’ll be all wound up as the AFC Champion New England Patriots take on the NFC Champion Washington Redskins!!!
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Don’t get me wrong—I wish the Patriots had been in it yesterday. Being a lifelong Redskin fan, I also hearken back to those Super Bowl glory days—looking forward to the day when the ‘Skins make another appearance.
I may be a grandfather before that happens.
Anyway, the absence of adrenalin, stress and anxiety made for a rather enjoyable evening. Had I a “horse in the race”, I would have OD’d on pre-game hype, seeking out the keys to victory for my team.
Yesterday, I didn’t care. Packers. Steelers. Whatever.
I actually thought the Steelers would win. After they handled the Jets, who had embarrassed the Patriots, I truly believed that Pittsburgh was just too good on defense and too multi-faceted on offense to lose. I think “Big Ben “ is a big jerk, but I really like the coach Mike Tomlin and the entire Steelers organization.
After all, the Green Bay Packers were mostly dependent on Aaron Rodgers. Ring his bell a couple of times and he becomes a different player. I thought the Steelers would actually risk giving up a big play or two in exchange for a couple of blitzes that would leave Rodgers on his back. Had they done so, I believe another outcome would have resulted.
Regardless, it was a pretty good game—and Pittsburgh’s furious comeback in the second half kept things interesting. The telecast was OK—I give it a B+.
The Super Bowl has the distinction of keeping you tuned in mentally when the commercial breaks happen. In fact, fans seem more likely to take their bathroom breaks during a lull in the action rather than during the spot breaks.
While I thought the commercials were below average this year in entertainment value, there were a few good ones, including the following CareerBuilder.com ad-featuring the ever-popular chimps:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRDx18GYITw
If I were the NFL Commissioner, I would have instituted on the following changes in yesterday’s spectacle:
1) Count the seats before you sell tickets. Hundreds of ticket holders were denied entrance yesterday---forced to watch the game OUTSIDE on big screen TV’s. Embarrassing.
2) Audition whomever you choose to sing the National Anthem. Whoever it is should both know the words and refrain from changing the note progression of the song itself. Francis Scott Key might not have recognized what happened Sunday as his composition. I like Christina Aguilera, but she botched the deal in front of millions upon millions.
3) The Medal of Honor winner who got a brief minute in the spotlight during halftime should have had a more prominent role—like flipping the coin. OK to have Deion Sanders out there with the other Hall of Famers, but choosing him to flip the coin was a mistake.
4) The Black Eyed Peas. Decent visually in what is historically a horrible setting for any coherent musical performance, but Fergie (whom I actually like) was off-key. As the years go by, it becomes harder to choose a top-level act. While the Super Bowl attracts a cross section of America, my bet is that over 80% of the audience both inside and outside the stadium would not call themselves “fans” of will.i.am and the crew. The Who (perhaps a better fit demographically) were stale last year. Who will it be next year? Start looking NOW.
5) Tell John Madden that the former President and First Lady were sitting NEXT to him, so texting (or playing Madden 2011) on his smartphone when the cameras peeked into the VIP box was bad form. Funny, but rude.
6) Dispense with the ridiculous “spoofs”—like the one featuring Shaquille O’Neal. I realize that Fox has a lot of time to fill, but really?
7) Think about who is appearing with who. Sending former Dallas Cowboy great Roger Staubach to the podium with the Vince Lombardi trophy had to be Jerry Jones’ idea, but did he not realize that Roger the dodger would be handing it off to Fox Sports analyst (and former nemesis Terry Bradshaw). These two hate each other from all reports—and while we could hear the stilted pleasantries, it was clear that Roger couldn’t wait to leave.
8) Start the kickoff at 4pm so kids can stay up and watch the whole game. I understand the desire to hit “prime time”, but really—the audience for a Super Bowl wouldn’t be LESS if played earlier. More people who have to work or go to school the next day (everyone) would get to watch the entire game. The other upside is that the hosting network would have a huge lead-in at a REASONABLE hour to showcase their pet show, which always follows the post-game show.
I’m sure you have other suggestions as well.
Given the winter weather in Dallas this past week, the fact that there was no security incident or major power failure means that the NFL will call this a big success. Haven’t heard about the ratings yet, but likely less than had the Jets or Patriots been playing Chicago.
For me, the chips and dip were good, the beer was cold—and there was no stress over the outcome.
Next year,however, wil be a different story. I’ll be all wound up as the AFC Champion New England Patriots take on the NFC Champion Washington Redskins!!!
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Friday, February 4, 2011
Patty Hearst: Victim or Felon?
THE FOLLOWING IS AN UPDATED TIM MOORE BLOG:
It was on this date 37 years ago that we first heard the name Patricia Hearst. On February 4, 1974, the 19 year-old media heiress captured headlines in her family’s newspapers as well as those across the world with word of her kidnapping.
An unknown group identified as the Symbionese Liberation Army claimed responsibility—and what unfolded over the next months and years became a bizarre tale of crime, brainwashing and perhaps…betrayal.
Patty, at the center of it all, fluctuated from being a victim to a participant in the revolutionary endeavors of the SLA. Never has the public been so confused as to the guilt or innocence of an individual as was the case with Patty Hearst. From sympathetic concern to uncertainty to conviction that she was part of the plot---all of these emotions swirled as public sentiment swung wildly with each news report. Her arrest in September of 1975 did little to settle the details of her captivity and subsequent participation in a crime caught on tape
To this day, many people frankly don’t know WHAT to believe. Neither do I, but I find the entire case fascinating.
I had the pleasure this week of meeting famed attorney F. Lee Bailey in my office here at 94.9 WHOM/Citadel Broadcasting. Bailey has returned to Maine and is currently in the process of launching a consultancy and a mediation/arbitration business in the state. Our meeting focused on the possible marketing of those businesses—but I must admit the temptation to quiz Bailey about some of his famous cases was almost too much to bear. I withstood the urge. Bailey was Patty Hearst’s attorney—and I can only imagine how unusual it must have been to defend the victim of a kidnapping who seemed to be a willing participant in a bank robbery.
Bizarre!
From her abduction to her arrest, trial and conviction for bank robbery—to her release and subsequent Presidential pardon, Patty Hearst has been a mystery, en enigma.
Here are three videos you may find interesting:
A) News report a few days after her abduction in 1974
B) Bank footage of Patty during a robbery
C) Her appearance a couple of years ago on Larry King Live
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4K-BHQqDo0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p05xGAvTjIg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NV9AGvfN13M&feature=related
So….do you have an opinion? Was she a victim brainwashed by her captors—or did she evolve into a willing member of the SLA? Did she deserve to go to prison—or conversely, did she deserve a pardon?
We’ll probably never know the truth—and I doubt there will ever be a case even remotely similar.
If you’d like my blog in your weekday box, drop me a line: tim.moore@citcomm.com
It was on this date 37 years ago that we first heard the name Patricia Hearst. On February 4, 1974, the 19 year-old media heiress captured headlines in her family’s newspapers as well as those across the world with word of her kidnapping.
An unknown group identified as the Symbionese Liberation Army claimed responsibility—and what unfolded over the next months and years became a bizarre tale of crime, brainwashing and perhaps…betrayal.
Patty, at the center of it all, fluctuated from being a victim to a participant in the revolutionary endeavors of the SLA. Never has the public been so confused as to the guilt or innocence of an individual as was the case with Patty Hearst. From sympathetic concern to uncertainty to conviction that she was part of the plot---all of these emotions swirled as public sentiment swung wildly with each news report. Her arrest in September of 1975 did little to settle the details of her captivity and subsequent participation in a crime caught on tape
To this day, many people frankly don’t know WHAT to believe. Neither do I, but I find the entire case fascinating.
I had the pleasure this week of meeting famed attorney F. Lee Bailey in my office here at 94.9 WHOM/Citadel Broadcasting. Bailey has returned to Maine and is currently in the process of launching a consultancy and a mediation/arbitration business in the state. Our meeting focused on the possible marketing of those businesses—but I must admit the temptation to quiz Bailey about some of his famous cases was almost too much to bear. I withstood the urge. Bailey was Patty Hearst’s attorney—and I can only imagine how unusual it must have been to defend the victim of a kidnapping who seemed to be a willing participant in a bank robbery.
Bizarre!
From her abduction to her arrest, trial and conviction for bank robbery—to her release and subsequent Presidential pardon, Patty Hearst has been a mystery, en enigma.
Here are three videos you may find interesting:
A) News report a few days after her abduction in 1974
B) Bank footage of Patty during a robbery
C) Her appearance a couple of years ago on Larry King Live
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4K-BHQqDo0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p05xGAvTjIg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NV9AGvfN13M&feature=related
So….do you have an opinion? Was she a victim brainwashed by her captors—or did she evolve into a willing member of the SLA? Did she deserve to go to prison—or conversely, did she deserve a pardon?
We’ll probably never know the truth—and I doubt there will ever be a case even remotely similar.
If you’d like my blog in your weekday box, drop me a line: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Thursday, February 3, 2011
The Internet: "Today Show" 1994 to Today
Many people have viewed the “Today Show “clip from 1994 where Bryant Gumbel and Katie Couric clearly have no clue as to what the internet is.
Only 17 years ago—and something that is as common today as turning on a radio or TV was barely in the public’s consciousness just a few years ago. Here is that clip:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUs7iG1mNjI
VERY amusing—and these hosts-intelligent people—appear to be ignorant when viewed today.
Of course, conversely, many people are unaware that the seeds of the internet were planted over 50 years ago! While most Americans consider the web as an invention of the 90’s----the formative stages began in the 1950’s!
And while each of us uses the internet on a daily basis—and many of us can loosely define what it is (far better than the Today Show hosts back then!) we might be hard pressed to really explain exactly how it works.
Here’s a short film I featured in a blog a couple of years ago. While the technology has advanced enough to make even this clip appear to be a bit dated, it is nonetheless an excellent primer on the birth of the internet—enjoy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hIQjrMHTv4&feature=dir
Now, go amaze your friends at cocktail parties with your newly found in-depth knowledge of the dawn of the internet!
If you’d like my blog in your e-mail, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Only 17 years ago—and something that is as common today as turning on a radio or TV was barely in the public’s consciousness just a few years ago. Here is that clip:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUs7iG1mNjI
VERY amusing—and these hosts-intelligent people—appear to be ignorant when viewed today.
Of course, conversely, many people are unaware that the seeds of the internet were planted over 50 years ago! While most Americans consider the web as an invention of the 90’s----the formative stages began in the 1950’s!
And while each of us uses the internet on a daily basis—and many of us can loosely define what it is (far better than the Today Show hosts back then!) we might be hard pressed to really explain exactly how it works.
Here’s a short film I featured in a blog a couple of years ago. While the technology has advanced enough to make even this clip appear to be a bit dated, it is nonetheless an excellent primer on the birth of the internet—enjoy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hIQjrMHTv4&feature=dir
Now, go amaze your friends at cocktail parties with your newly found in-depth knowledge of the dawn of the internet!
If you’d like my blog in your e-mail, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Groundhog Day: Grown Men Rely On Rodent
I guess it’s official.
An early spring—predicted by Punxsutawney Phil---the well-fed groundhog who apparently did NOT see his shadow this morning.
That’s a relief—since a couple of feet of snow on the ground with another foot or so falling as I write—makes me think that this rodent is wrong.
Another possibility is that Phil took a groundhog correspondence course and is now a certified meteorologist---which would explain why his predictions will be incorrect. After all, weather forecasters comprise the only profession I know of where being consistently and dramatically off-base is no obstacle to employment or advancement.
It was on this date in 1887 that the first Ground hog Day was “celebrated”---and I think no other “if/then” scenario causes more confusion. If you, too, are a bit confused, it goes like this:
Groundhog sees shadow= 6 more weeks of Winter
Groundhog sees no shadow= Early Spring
Since groundhogs live about 6-8 years, there have been approximately 18 or so woodchucks to hold the coveted moniker “Punxsutawney Phil”. I’m not sure it’s a honor they actually strive to achieve.
Looking at it purely from the Groundhog’s point of view, it has to be a strange existence. Sure, life is easy. Unlimited food (whatever those things eat)-and pampering for an entire year culminates with a rather rude awakening every February 2nd. Yanked from a sound sleep, you are hauled out of your hole.
Greeting you are an assembly of fairly creepy old men, dressed in tuxedos with top hats. Thousands of spectators are also on hand—as are TV cameras from around the world. The glare of lights—all focused on your chubby little body as you are held high for all to see.
Now time for the main event. You are placed on a surface—and scrutiny over the shadow you cast-or lack thereof—is ascertained. Unaware of what a shadow even is---either rejoicing or expletives follow your appearance-----and then it’s back into your HOLE for another year.
Nice.
More inane than the adults that partake in this charade—is the news coverage it receives. The situation right now in Cairo is dire----but we must interrupt coverage in Egypt with this Breaking News Update:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMaMiO83rvI
Of course, for the people in Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, the entire affair represents a goldmine. Not only is the attention of the nation fixated upon their little town (if only for an hour or so), but the economic boon is enough to…well…make grown men dress up in tuxedos and hoist a hairy rodent over the heads.
Their families must be proud.
The sale of groundhog keychains, T-shirts and hats must be worth sacrificing their dignity and self respect.
Today’s prediction was unusual, as Phil has NOT seen his shadow only 13% of the time.
According to the record books, that little critter has been correct only 39% of the time.
Yep, he must be a meteorologist.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
An early spring—predicted by Punxsutawney Phil---the well-fed groundhog who apparently did NOT see his shadow this morning.
That’s a relief—since a couple of feet of snow on the ground with another foot or so falling as I write—makes me think that this rodent is wrong.
Another possibility is that Phil took a groundhog correspondence course and is now a certified meteorologist---which would explain why his predictions will be incorrect. After all, weather forecasters comprise the only profession I know of where being consistently and dramatically off-base is no obstacle to employment or advancement.
It was on this date in 1887 that the first Ground hog Day was “celebrated”---and I think no other “if/then” scenario causes more confusion. If you, too, are a bit confused, it goes like this:
Groundhog sees shadow= 6 more weeks of Winter
Groundhog sees no shadow= Early Spring
Since groundhogs live about 6-8 years, there have been approximately 18 or so woodchucks to hold the coveted moniker “Punxsutawney Phil”. I’m not sure it’s a honor they actually strive to achieve.
Looking at it purely from the Groundhog’s point of view, it has to be a strange existence. Sure, life is easy. Unlimited food (whatever those things eat)-and pampering for an entire year culminates with a rather rude awakening every February 2nd. Yanked from a sound sleep, you are hauled out of your hole.
Greeting you are an assembly of fairly creepy old men, dressed in tuxedos with top hats. Thousands of spectators are also on hand—as are TV cameras from around the world. The glare of lights—all focused on your chubby little body as you are held high for all to see.
Now time for the main event. You are placed on a surface—and scrutiny over the shadow you cast-or lack thereof—is ascertained. Unaware of what a shadow even is---either rejoicing or expletives follow your appearance-----and then it’s back into your HOLE for another year.
Nice.
More inane than the adults that partake in this charade—is the news coverage it receives. The situation right now in Cairo is dire----but we must interrupt coverage in Egypt with this Breaking News Update:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMaMiO83rvI
Of course, for the people in Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, the entire affair represents a goldmine. Not only is the attention of the nation fixated upon their little town (if only for an hour or so), but the economic boon is enough to…well…make grown men dress up in tuxedos and hoist a hairy rodent over the heads.
Their families must be proud.
The sale of groundhog keychains, T-shirts and hats must be worth sacrificing their dignity and self respect.
Today’s prediction was unusual, as Phil has NOT seen his shadow only 13% of the time.
According to the record books, that little critter has been correct only 39% of the time.
Yep, he must be a meteorologist.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Dog And Deer: Best Friends Forever
Every now and then, an e-mail lands in my inbox w/ attached video that makes me smile.
Such was the case yesterday—and I’d like to share it with you.
I love critters—and though we humans have our own ideas of how animals behave, videos like the one below force us to rethink our assumptions. Patterns of behavior that we attribute to certain kinds of animals are turned upside down when we see a real-life example that deviates from the norm.
Nobody (other than militant cat lovers) will deny that dogs are amazing. Deer, on the other hand—are skittish, antisocial to other animals and humans—and generally not thought of as engaging.
But, if you subscribe to the notion that animals each have definitively unique personalities, as do I, there exists the possibility that encounters depicted in this video could really happen.
They do.
A dog whose best friend is a deer.
Different worlds.
Different threats and species expectations.
And yet, given the opportunity, the following can happen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xU5h1paYQ0
Friendship knows no boundaries. Just as human beings can and do form very strong bonds with animals—their pets----it is also true that friendships are forged among different types of animals as well. It gives me hope that human beings can one day learn to live with other humans whose culture, background, race, gender and nationality or religion can find out that friendship rises above all differences.
I find it all so reassuring—and magical, in fact. Hope you do too.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Such was the case yesterday—and I’d like to share it with you.
I love critters—and though we humans have our own ideas of how animals behave, videos like the one below force us to rethink our assumptions. Patterns of behavior that we attribute to certain kinds of animals are turned upside down when we see a real-life example that deviates from the norm.
Nobody (other than militant cat lovers) will deny that dogs are amazing. Deer, on the other hand—are skittish, antisocial to other animals and humans—and generally not thought of as engaging.
But, if you subscribe to the notion that animals each have definitively unique personalities, as do I, there exists the possibility that encounters depicted in this video could really happen.
They do.
A dog whose best friend is a deer.
Different worlds.
Different threats and species expectations.
And yet, given the opportunity, the following can happen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xU5h1paYQ0
Friendship knows no boundaries. Just as human beings can and do form very strong bonds with animals—their pets----it is also true that friendships are forged among different types of animals as well. It gives me hope that human beings can one day learn to live with other humans whose culture, background, race, gender and nationality or religion can find out that friendship rises above all differences.
I find it all so reassuring—and magical, in fact. Hope you do too.
If you’d like my blog in your box, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
