The Bricks House

Where is Brickley

2006-07-05T17:29:00.000-04:00

Has the owner of this site abandoned us?

Owned

2006-06-08T09:06:00.000-04:00

I hope you get no virgins.

Kenny Boy and Jeff Skilling Guilty!

2006-05-25T21:44:00.000-04:00

2006 Preakness Stakes

2006-05-17T20:37:00.000-04:00

The second leg of the Triple Crown. The official post:

1. Like Now, 12-1
2. Platinum Couple, 50-1
3. Hemingway's Key, 30-1
4. Greeley's Legacy, 20-1
5. Brother Derek, 3-1
6. Barbaro, 1-1
7. Sweetnorthernsaint, 4-1
8. Bernardini, 8-1
9. Diabolical, 30-1

Very simply, people better hope and pray that Barbaro walks away with this race setting up a date for the Triple Crown. Else, it'll be a cold day at the races, especially at the Belmont. Nothing much else here folks, move along.

And where the fuck is everyone these days? Hello? Am I the only inhabitor of this place?

When Will the NBA Realize...

2006-05-11T12:21:00.000-04:00

...that Mark Cuban is *right*?

Getting a $200K fine is ridiculous, but part of the fine because of a blog post is even more disturbing.

The One-Hundred and Thirty Second Running of the Roses

2006-05-03T22:43:00.000-04:00

The sun shines bright in the old Kentucky home
'Tis summer, the people are gay;
The corn top's ripe and the meadow's in the bloom,
While the birds make music all the day;
The young folks roll on the little cabin floor,
All merry, all happy, and bright,
By'n by hard times comes a-knocking at the door,
Then my old Kentucky home, good night!

Chorus

Weep no more, my lady,
Oh weep no more today!
We will sing one song for the old Kentucky home,
For the old Kentucky home far away.

They hunt no more for the 'possum and the coon,
On meadow, the hill and the shore,
They sing no more by the glimmer of the moon,
On the bench by that old cabin door;
The day goes by like a shadow o'er the heart,
With sorrow where all was delight;
The time has come when the people have to part,
Then my old Kentucky home, good night!

Chorus

The head must bow and the back will have to bend,
Wherever the people may go;
A few more days and the trouble all will end
In the field where sugar-canes may grow;
A few more days for to tote the weary load,
No matter, 'twill never be light,
A few more days till we totter on the road,
Then my old Kentucky home, good night!

Chorus

From one my my all-time favorite Simpsons episodes:

[Jockeys] Freaks, freaks, freaks!
We are the jockeys, jockeys are we
We live underground in a fiberglass tree
[Jockey #1] Ha!
[Jockey #2] Ooo!
[Jockey #3] Haha! 'Tween Earth and Hell, we reign supreme
[Jockey #4] On toadstool thrones by a chocolate stream
[Jockey #5] But all is not well in Jockey Town
[Jockey #6] Your renegade horse is making us frown
[Homer] What do you want me to do?
[Jockey #7] Your horse must lose
[Homer] My horse must lose?
[Jockey #7] No win!
[Jockey #8] No show!
[Jockey #3] No place!
[Jockey #4] Just lose the stinkin' race
[Homer] And what if I refuse to lose?
[Jockey #8] We'll eat your brain
[Homer] MY HORSE MUST LOSE!

The field:

1. Jazil (Fernando Jara, 30-1)
2. Steppenwolfer (Robby Albarado, 30-1)
3. Keyed Entry (Patrick Valenzuela, 30-1)
4. Sinister Minister (Victor Espinoza, 12-1)
5. Point Determined (Rafael Bejarano, 12-1)
6. Showing Up (Cornelio Velasquez, 20-1)
7. Bob and John (Garrett Gomez, 12-1)
8. Barbaro (Edgar Prado, 4-1)
9. Sharp Humor (Mark Guidry, 20-1)
10. A.P. Warrior (Corey Nakatani, 15-1)
11. Sweetnorthernsaint (Kent Desormeaux, 10-1)
12. Private Vow (Shaun Bridgmohan, 50-1)
13. Bluegrass Cat (Ramon Dominguez, 30-1)
14. Deputy Glitters (Jose Lezcano, 50-1)
15. Seaside Retreat (Patrick Husbands, 50-1)
16. Cause to Believe (Russell Baze, 50-1)
17. Lawyer Ron (John McKee, 4-1)
18. Brother Derek (Alex Solis, 3-1)
19. Storm Treasure (David Flores, 50-1)
20. Flashy Bull (Mike Smith, 50-1).

I am pleased to announce my following picks that just came out of my anus. So without much ado:

Win: Bluegrass Cat
Place: Brother Derek
Show: Sharp Humor
The Super: 13-18-9-6

Weep no more my lady, as they aren't going to build a new Kentucky home. So grab yourself a mint julip and stop and smell the roses! And remember, BOX IT!

Jamming with Mr.Butch part 12

2006-04-28T20:37:00.000-04:00

Mr. Butch is free and is back in his old stomping grounds around Harvard Ave and Comm Ave.

Jamming with Mr. Butch part 11

2006-04-26T09:13:00.000-04:00

Mr. Butch is alive and well. As we all know, Mr. Madison was picked up by the local authorities and place under arrest. What we didn't know is where he ended up. The mystery is over. Mr. Butch sent a letter to his friend Kevin, the owner of Gateway Lottery in Allston to calm the fear of all his servants. The letter states that Mr. Butch will be released in two weeks from Bridgewater House of Correction. He states that the food sucks and there's nothing to do but play dominoes and cards. He says he can't panhandle behind bars. He can't wait to get out and go to the saloon, see his friends, and meet his people of Allston. As he ended his letter, he encouraged everybody to not write back. Well said Mr. Butch. The countdown has begun til Mr. Butch is free. Let the church bells ring with joy in Allston village as their savior is once again on the rise.

Feeling a draft

2006-04-17T14:44:00.000-04:00

I'm a drafnik. Thats it, I've said it out loud and proud like James Brown doing a funky groove. I admire Mel Kiper Jr. I was like him when I was younger, but he carried out his dream of making people listen to his opinions, while I just spout my own at the TV. I've been to the NFL drafts at Foxboro, even doing some radio work for BCN when we covered Parcells first draft that he took Ty Law, Ted Johnson, and Curtis Martin. Just like the MLB ad, I live for this. So here are my predictions for the upcoming draft.
1.) Houston Texans - Reggie Bush/RB/USC - enough said, best ballplayer in the field.
2.) New Orleans Saints - Mario Williams/DE/NCState - This would have been a tough call for the Saints if they didn't sign Drew Brees to a six year deal. Williams will fill the spot that Darren Howard had before he left for the Eagles.
3.) Tennessee Titans - Matt Leinart/QB/USC - This is Steve McNair's swan song. His good career is all over and it will be a transition year as McNair keeps the position warm for Leinart to take over next year, just like what Carson Palmer did. Plus Norm Chow is the offensive cooridinator for the Titans.
4.) NY Jets - D'Brickashaw Ferguson/OT/Virginia - The Jets need a QB but they really need is an offensive lineman to build around for the next decade. With Ferguson, Pennington would be mauled as much as before.
5.) Green Bay Packers - A.J. Hawk/LB/Ohio State - Like the Jets, the Pack need alot of help, especially if Favre retires. Hawk gives them that instant warrior on defense that they have been missing since Reggie White.
6.) San Francisco 49ers - Vernon Davis/TE/Maryland - the 49ers really need a go to guy for Alex Smith. Like Coates and Bledsoe and Gonzalez and Green, Smith and Davis can team up for years to torture the NFC West.
7.) Oakland Raiders - Haloti Ngati/DL/Oregon-Art Shell is an old linemen. They will pass on Vince Young and grab the best D-lineman in Ngati. Their D-line is old and fat and Ngati will upgrade a position that needs it.
8.) Buffalo Bills - Michael Huff/S/Texas - Once they let Lawyer Milloy go, Huff was their man. His skills are unbelievable for a safety. Kinda like Ronnie Lott or Kenny Easley. He will make Bills fans forget about Milloy.
9.) Detroit Lions - Broderick Bunkley/DL/Florida St - If there was a wide out here, they would have taken him. Bunkley will team Shaun Rogers to give the Lions their best tandem of Linemen since the Alex Karras days.
10.) Arizona Cardinals - Vince Young/QB/Texas - Denny Green took Daunte Culpepper with the 11th pick and turned him into an all-pro. Green will take Young and have him sit behind Kurt Warner and learn what it is all about to be a NFL quarterback. Young should get on his hands and knees and thank the lord for dropping him onto a team with Edge James, Larry Fitzgerald, and Anquin Boldin.
11.) St. Louis Rams - Jay Cutler/QB/Vanderbilt - The Rams are pissed at just missing out on Young and take Cutler because Marc Bulger is always hurt and there is nobody behind Bulger that can play.
12.) Cleveland Browns - Chad Greenway/LB/Iowa - Greenway is one the high motor players in the draft and Romeo Crennel needs those types of Bruschi players to make a difference.
13.) Baltimore Ravens - Santonio Holmes/WR/Ohio State - The Ravens got burnt before taken a wide out from Florida(Travis Taylor) and that is why they go with Holmes. Kyle Boller is a happy camper after this pick.
14.) Philadelphia Eagles - Chad Jackson/WR/Florida - With TO gone, McNabb has nobody to throw to. The defenses will gang up on Westbrook and force McNabb to pass. That is why they take Jackson here and screw Denver's draft.
15.) Denver Broncos - D'Angelo Williams/RB/Memphis - After getting screwed, the Broncos panick and draft Williams. because their thinking is you can never have enough good running backs.
16.) Miami Dolphins - Kamerion Wimbley/DE/Florida State - The Dolphins know all about Wimbley after watching him in their own back yard. Wimbley is groomed to take Jason Taylor's spot when his contract is up.
17.) Minnesota Vikings - Jimmy Williams/CB/Virginia Tech - The Vikings want to make sure they have insurance if Fred Smoot goes to jail because of the Loveboat incident. Williams is a 6'2'' corner who will flourish in the NFL.
18.) Dallas Cowboys - Winston Justice/OT/USC - Parcells loves big bodies and Justice has it. plus playing in a pro offense will help him adjust quickly as he takes over for Larry Allen.
19.) San Diego Chargers - Ty Hill/CB/Clemson - Hill quickly fills one of the Chargers needs in the defensive backfield.
20.) Kansas City Chiefs - Manny Lawson/LB/NC State - the Chiefs are bad on Defense. Lawson gives them the hybrid defender they have been missing since Derrick Thomas.
21.) New England Patriots - Bobby Carpenter/LB/Ohio State - He is the start of the overhauling at linebacker. He steps in right away next to Bruschi and makes people forget Andy Katzenmoyer.
22.) Denver Broncos - Jason Allen/CB/Tennessee - They hope Allen can play opposite Champ Bailey.
23.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Donte Whitner/S/Ohio State - They finally get the guy to replace John Lynch
24.) Cincinnati Bengals - Ernie Sims/LB/Florida State - Sims teams up Odell Thurman to cause a lot of havoc for the rest of the central division.
25.) NY Giants - Jonathan Joesph/CB/South Carolina - best of the remaining defensive backs that don't have torn ACLs.
26.) Chicago Bears - Andre Cromartie/CB/Florida State - Jerry Azumah retired this offseaon and the Bears need a replacement even though Cromartie has had a major injury to his knee.
27.) Carolina Panthers - Laurence Mulroney/RB/Minnesota - Losing Stephen Davis and the injury prone Deshon Foster prompts the Panthers to take Mulroney over the injured Lendale White.
28.) Jacksonville Jaquars - Ashton Youboty/CB/Ohio State - Best name in the draft and another buckeye taken in the first round. How did they not win the title with all this talent.
29.) NY Jets - Nick Mangold/C/Ohio State - They need to replace Kevin Mawae at center and Mangold is the best of the rest. Another buckeye.
30.) Indianapolis Colts - Kelly Jennings/CB/Miami - the Colts can always use DBs, especially ones that don't have knives sticking out of their calves.
31.) Seattle Seahawks - Taitusi Lutui/OG/USC - This is a need pick after losing Steve Hutchinson to the Vikings. Lutui was awesome during the year for USC and should have no trouble starting for the Seahawks.
32.) Pittsburgh Steelers - Tamba Hali/DE/Penn State - the Steelers stay instate for the last pick as they try to upgrade their D-Line with the talented but smallish Hali
52.) New England Patriots - Lendale White/RB/USC - We all should be giddy if this happens.`

Jamming with Mr. Butch part 10

2006-04-04T19:31:00.000-04:00

Last Friday was not a good day in the life of Mr. Butch, as he was arrested for the umpteeth time in his career. This is according to the Allston-Brighton Tab. Harold Madison, 54, homeless in Allston, was arrested March 24 on charges of public drinking, according to a report. At about 11 a.m., police patrolling at Commonwealth and Harvard avenues saw the suspect dancing in the street, playing air guitar, directing motor and pedestrian traffic and drinking a bottle of beer within 10 feet of Marty's liquor store, reports state. As they approached him, police found he smelled of alcohol and had glassy eyes, according to the report. The suspect has been reportedly arrested and warned several times before about public drinking. During booking, the suspect reportedly announced he had not bathed in a year and was proud of it. Never a dull day in the life of Mr. Butch, and another good sign is that Spring showers are on the way.

My Hobey Baker Winner Prediction?

2006-03-29T14:44:00.000-05:00

The "Hobey Hat Trick" (final three candidates) was announced moments ago. The Hobey Baker Memorial Award is given to the best college hockey player in the nation. In addition to great statistics, leadership, scholarship, and service are important to the selection process. This year, the Hobey Hat Trick consist of:

1. Matt Carle, defenseman from the University of Denver
2. Chris Collins, foward from the Boston College
3. Brian Elliot, goaltender from the University of Wisconsin

The popular consensus, almost by a landslide right now, is that Matt Carle will walk away with the award.

So who is my pick to win this year's Hobey Baker? The answer may surprise you.

I pick Chris Collins to win the Hobey Baker this season.

Now I know "a little" about Boston College hockey :-) I have seen Chris play a number of times, and it is quite amazing how the kid progressed throughout his four years. He has made himself into a human-highlight reel --"doin' it and doin' it well" as said by NECN's Chris Collins (different person, same name).

But that is only one reason why I want to see Chris win the Hobey Baker. Remember, Chris wears #12. However, that number was also worn by a great BC hockey player --by the name of Brian Gionta (now with the New Jersey Devils). Since Gionta graduated from BC in 2001, people have been screaming and calling to retire his name and the #12 to the rafters at Conte Forum. Unfortunately from what I have heard, your number can be retired only if you win the Hobey Baker, Heisman Trophy, or other prestigious national award. Now if Chris wins the Hobey Baker, it will be sure that BC hockey #12 will be retired to the rafters --with the name Chris Collins, rather than the name of Brian Gionta which most people associated #12 with! How hilarious would that be?

Vegas Baby Vegas

2006-03-28T18:42:00.000-05:00

I got a trip to Las Vegas for my 40th birthday and I chronicled the chaos that ensued for four days. I left Thursday morning from Logan, with my wife, ipod, and Howie Carr's The Bulger Brothers. The plane was loaded with rowdy people very ready for the city of Lost Wages. It started early in the flight as the rowdy loudmouths a few rows up found out that the stewardess was from Pittsburgh. Her Steelers necklace gave it away. Very soon the Brady's Better chants were filling the cabin. She smiled and continued to pour the beer for them. The real scary moment was when the other stewerd came down the aisle and it was the spitting image of Ron Burgundy. I just wanted to yell out, "I Love Scotch." These guys were already in full gambling mode as they were playing Texas Hold'em for five hours. We landed and found our transport minibus. While waiting for the driver who was the clone of Sheldon Williams of Duke,even with William's trademark dented nose, I noticed my first odd Vegas moment. Outside the minibus was a Orange fuzzy cab. You don't see many Orange fuzzy cabs in Massachusetts. Right there I knew we were in for a hell of a weekend. The driver started to collect the bus passes, but had to stop because a girl up front had spit out her gum in to the pass and driver told her she had to repay the cashier if she wanted to continue to the hotel, since he was not going to pry the gum off the pass. Next six Japanese tourists filed on and spoke no English. This was great comedy watching the driver try to extract what hotel they were going to . It was like Long Duck Dong from 16 Candles trying to tell the boyfriend that Samantha went to the church to marry the oily bohunk. Plane lands in Vegas at 11:30, Minibus lands at Mandalay Bay Hotel at 12:20pm. It took longer to get to the hotel which was just a mile away than the flight itself. Now the Mandalay Bay Hotel is a glimming gold tower that is very impressive, and so are the girls that infrequent it. Lots of Tits and Ass everywhere. After dumping off the luggage, we found one of the two couples(Jim and Jen) we were going with at the SportsBook. Jim made a few bets then led us to the brew pub in the Monte Carlo Hotel which was a few blocks down from the Mandalay. It is now 4:00pmPT and the Duke vs LSU game was starting. But at this pub, they were showing the NIT game between Cincinnati and South Carolina. Well, Jim exploded when the bartender told him it was out of his control what was on the TV. "Nobody and I mean Nobody is watching a NIT game when March Madness is on." After finding the manager, and berating him about not having the game on in a bar, the guy finally figured out how to switch the cable box to get the game on all the screens. Now normally this situation would have made us turn right around and find the ESPNZone at New York New York, but this brew pub had a 1670z. beer tower for 28 bucks. Thats 14 beers in a tower for only 28 dollars. Can you say Jackpot? Me and the wife left around 5:30 because we had a dinner reservation at Emeril's fish market at the MGM Hotel. I got to say that the big guy from Fall River makes the best bacon, garlic mash potato in the world. It was tremendous as Todd Donahue used to say on Time Out For Trivia. After dinner it was back to Mandalay for some slots before jetlag had finally set in and it was time for bed. The end of day one. Friday was going to be filled with lots of surprisies. Our other friends(Wish and Kara) had landed in Vegas at 11:30pm and were still asleep in the morning. It was Wish's 40th birthday present too. We called his room and pretended to be the front desk. We told him that there was a message for him. I read it in my best southern twang voice,"I have a message to Scott from Moe, Happy 4oth birthday, you old Fuck" He couldn't believe the front desk has said this to him. Then my wife got on the phone and spilled the beans that we were already in Vegas and they were to meet us for breakfast downstairs. Wish still couldn't believe that we were there. I couldn't believe I just saw the Schwab from ESPN eating at the buffet. I knew I could have beat him on his show. As we were eating, Jim and Jen snuck up and surprised Wish again.(Jim is Kara's brother and Wish's brother in law) All these people in Vegas for my birthday, who else is going to show up? Went out to the pool but it was crowed as the nude beach was closed for renovation, The airport has helicopter rides over the city and they must have had seven copters just circling the area.It was like Apocolyspe Now when Robert Duvall was landing on the beach. I went to get a massage from Nino. He freaking snapped my neck, but it felt so good.
Only in place like Vegas could you have the University of Las Vegas just a block away from the sportbooks and strip and Carrottop as the headliner at the Luxor. The gang resettled at the sportsbook to lay down some money on BC, they were 2 and half point underdogs to Villanova. From there it was back to the brew pub for two beer towers and muchies and the BC game. As the game ended, we erupted because BC covered the spread in the loss. It doesn't matter who wins or loses, only if you cover. Time to celebrate our moderate payoffs with a trip to Red Square at Mandalay. It is a Vodka bar that only serves vodka. The novalty wore off and it was off to the RumJungle next door. In the RumJungle, they have girls who swing from trapezes with no harnesses. We had a blond waitress who was dressed head to toe in a lowcut cleavage showing black dress and black highheel boots. But the best part was the old fashioned tube socks she had on under the boots. We asked her if she danced at the RumJungle. She replied in quotation fingers,"I don't dance here,(Pause) But I am a dancer." Yes you are and there is a pole over there for you. My night was going great until UConn couldn't cover the spread against Washington. Oh well, you win one, you lose one. Time for bed after a few more slots. Saturday arrived with various headaches from the RumJungle, so we ate breakfast at the House of Blues in the Casino. Everything was fine until Carlos our waiter forgot my teabag until it was time to cash out. We took the monorail from the MGM to the Venetian Hotel down the strip. These hotels look so close together, but in reality, they are very far apart. You spend most of your free time in Vegas just walking. The Venetian was mammoth. They had Madame Toussands Wax Museum which was awesome. A very realistic Jenny Lopez, Beyonce, and Shaq. The Venetian seemed to be an endless maze with their waterways and shops. Checked out Harrah's, the Flamingo- home to Wayne Newton-Mr. Vegas, and O'Sheas Casino. This is where we ran into the midget leprachun pleading for people to come on in and play the penny slots. You think you have seen it all until a midget in shiny green jacket and pants starts calling you out. Stopped at Paris, played more slots, saw John Dennis from WEEI, strolling down the strip. Saw the fuzzy orange cab again. The one thing I didn't see was any cops on the street. Where's Grissom? Saw a fat Elvis taking pictures with the tourists, Saw M & M world, saw a guy win 154,000 on a 25 cent Elvis slot machine. A lot of people were drinking out on the strip and walking around with beets and daquaris. It was just like Mardi Gras in New Orleans with more glitter. After a much needed nap, a prerequiste for Vegas nightlife, we headed downstairs for a cab and waited for the others to join us. Back in Boston, they call Saturday night-amateur night. In Vegas it is Professional night. Just sit back and watch the talent roll by. This was the Vegas I was waiting for. Girl after girl,large breast after large breast, just strutting by and trying to out pose the next babe in four inch stilletto heels. Took a fast cab to Cesaer's Palace where we hit the Shadow Bar. A great idea for a bar. Silhoutte's of nude dancers behind the bar gyrating to music as you sip your cocktail. We got a table for 10 at Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill. One of the top notch food channel restaurants in Vegas. It was a disappointment to me because I am a spice guy. I got the 16 spice chicken and couldn't taste one spice. The others raved about the pork dinner but not me. I saw Josh Duhamel from the TV show Vegas walk by our table. It didn't hit me for awhile who he was until, we found out that Fergie from the Black Eye Peas and Duhamel's girlfriend was having her birthday party there too. Heard Jerry Rice and Michael Jordan were in the house too, but couldn't find them. We decided to walk back to New York New York to try to get into Coyote Ugly, because Kara was feeling it and wanted to dance on the bar. Hey, why not, we could blackmail her later when she forgets what she had done. Well it didn't happen as the club had a line out the door. It was back to Mandalay for some late night gambling. After losing at Roulette and realizing it is 4:00am back at home, it was time for bed. Sunday morning and a fast cab to the airport. Should have known something would go wrong as the whole weekend was so right. The automatic boarding pass was behind one ticket so I had to wait until another passenger used the machine to spit mine out. Going through the metal detecter, I left my phone on my belt and 75 cents in my pocket. Pull me aside, I'm a terrorist. I tried to tell them it was the coins, but no luck as they searched me. I looked up at the plexiglass and one of the TSA agents is making faces at me. I tried to ignore her until she yelled my name. It then dawns on me, it's my old postal buddy from Allston, who's now works for TSA in Las Vegas. She had me pulled aside just to make me squirm.. No harm, no foul as I was finally free and boarded my plane for the sanity of home. You know the phrase what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, I can't wait for my next trip to sin city to find out what really happens in Vegas.

Dante and The Brick - update

2006-03-24T14:49:00.000-05:00

That's right, Dante and The Brick have made it to the web. Well not really, but they are on Wikipedia now. Check it out for yourself. Go to wikipedia.org and search for "Dante and The Brick", make sure to have upper-case D, T, and B. It will not work if you don't. Let me know what other information should be on there. Danteandthebrick.com should be up soon. We'll see.

Stuff You Want To Say At Work….But.....

2006-03-17T08:01:00.000-05:00

1. I can see your point, but I still think you're full of crap.

2. I don't know what your problem is, but I'll bet it's hard to pronounce.

3. How about never? Is never good for you?

4. I see you've set aside this special time to humiliate yourself in public.

5. I'm really easy to get along with once you people learn to see it my way.

6. I'll try being nicer if you'll try being smarter.

7. I'm out of my mind, but feel free to leave a message.

8. I don't work here. I'm a consultant.

9. It sounds like English, but I can't understand a damn word you're saying.

10. Ahhh...I see the screw-up fairy has visited us again...

11. I like you. You remind me of myself when I was young and stupid.

12. You are validating my inherent mistrust of strangers.

13. I have plenty of talent and vision; I just don't give a damn.

14. I'm already visualizing the duct tape over your mouth.

15. I will always cherish the initial misconceptions I had about you.

16. Thank you. We're all refreshed and challenged by your unique point of view.

17. The fact that no one understands you doesn't mean you're an artist.

18. Any connection between your reality and mine is purely coincidental.

19. What am I? Flypaper for freaks!

20. I'm not being rude. You're just insignificant.

21. It's a thankless job, but I've got a lot of Karma to burn off.

22. Yes, I am an agent of Satan, but my duties are largely ceremonial.

23. And your crybaby whiny-assed opinion would be...?

24. Do I look like a people person?

25. This isn't an office. It's Hell with fluorescent lighting.

26. I started out with nothing & still have most of it left.

27. Sarcasm is just one more service we offer.

28. If I throw a stick, will you leave?

29. Errors have been made. Others will be blamed.

30. Whatever kind of look you were going for, you missed.

31. I'm trying to imagine you with a personality.

32. A cubicle is just a padded cell without a door.

33. Can I trade this job for what's behind door #1?

34. Too many freaks, not enough circuses.

35. Nice perfume. Must you marinate in it?

36. Chaos, panic, & disorder - my work here is done.

37. How do I set a laser printer to stun?

38. I thought I wanted a career; turns out I just wanted a salary.

39. Who lit the fuse on your tampon?

40. Oh I get it... like humor... but different.

Jamming with Mr. Butch part 9

2006-03-16T18:44:00.000-05:00

It was Monday morning in rock city, and Mr. Butch was late. "Dude, what day is it? What time is it?" Now Mr. Butch is never in a hurry for anything. But this morning he was troubled about something. Later in the day, I caught up to the El Presidente of Allston and he was checking his scratch tickets for winners, but to no avail. Mr. Butch had just forgot what day it was because he had to get his bank statements from his oversee-er. Not to worry. "I got your back, Man" Thanks Mr. Butch, I got yours from a distance.

What's up Vito

2006-03-16T09:14:00.000-05:00

I must refer to everyone' favorite sword swallowing goomba, Vito Spatafore, from the Soprano's when dealing with the Patriots offseason moves. Say what's up Vito! With yesterday's news that Willie McGinest is gone to Cleveland to be reunited with his former defensive coach Romeo Crennel, the Patriots have nothing to show for theit offseason moves. Oh yeah, they signed Hank Poteat, Artrell Hawkins, and someother backup to a backup lineman, but the Pats have will have over 20 million dollars to spend under the cap when they release Tyrone Poole later this week. The got a lot of holes to fill. I believe they are not going to go out and get the remaining good free agents like Lavar Arrington, Terrell Owens, Keyshawn Johnson. I think they are trying to get as far under the cap because they know and see into the future that their core player's contracts are up after next season. They are going to save now and spend later. Richard Seymour, Deion Branch, Dan Koppen, Daniel Graham, Asante Samual, Eugene Wilson are all due new contracts next year. It seems to the Pats that it is better to keep this core of players together and then pick and decide who will fit with them. Of Course, they should keep Adam Vinateri, Stephen Neal, and Tom Ashworth, but not at a ridiculos price. They should spend a little of their reserves for these players and then give the rest to next year's players. Then use the draft to bulk up the depth chart when these free agents to be decide they want to leave. It seems to be the only logical reason why the Pats haven't spent this offseason and let prime free agents like Brian Finneran, Dave Thorton and San Madison slide through the cracks. Maybe they are waiting to see if Eric Moulds will come available. A certain upgrade over David Givens. Hey the Pats know what they are doing, securing the future is alot better than securing nothing like the Redskins.

2005-2006 Hockey East Regular Season Review

2006-03-15T14:43:00.000-05:00

Another Hockey East regular season is in the books, and I will certainly remember this season for a long time. The regular season championship was not decided until the final hour of the season. Now, the postseason is well underway. Here are my final thoughts about the regular season via rundown of each team, in reverse order of finish. Before I do that, do review what I wrote in my season preview back in September.

10. Merrimack College - I don't think I can say anything good about them this season. Which really leads to the question: was it really all Chris Serino's fault?

9. Northeastern University - The kids played hard. But this season was a mountain to climb considering the team only had three Seniors, a lot of freshman, and a new coach.

8. UMass Amherst - They pulled off some major upsets (e.g. BU, BC, and then #1 Colorado College). Even from what I saw in the Hockey East Quarterfinals, they certainly did not look like a #8 seeded team. They were fast-skating, and talented. A number of them will be back next season. Their Senior class will be one that will be remembered for a long time: they meant a lot to the program, including two trips to the HE semifinals (and almost winning it in 2004). I also know that Coach Cahoon is not going anywhere. I am penciling UMass to finish in the top 5 next season.

7. UMass Lowell - I asked in the season preview: "Can something go right for them this year, or will something be bound to go wrong again?" The answer: nothing went right this season for Lowell --again. One of the biggest disappointments in college hockey this season. Lowell was projected to finish 3rd in the league. Worst of all, more than half of the team is graduating. It has been a very disappointing four-year stretch for Lowell, and I will not be surprised if Blaise MacDonald gets fired during the offseason.

6. Vermont - Was ranked as high as 3rd in the nation in the first few weeks. Over the course of the season, we realized how overrated Vermont was. Good defense and good goaltending from Joe Fallon (at times) were not enough. Their HE quarterfinal series with Boston College was a testament of their season: Vermont simply did not know how to finish a game.

5. Providence - A pretty decent effort under first-year coach Tim Army. Definitely a noticable, if not dramatic, improvement in overall gameplay and speed. Fast and impressive start to their season, only to dramatically falter near the end of the season.

4. UNH - They were a very inconsistent team for most of the season, including some bad losses. However, they got very hot at the end of the season. But too much, too late.

3. Boston College - No question, the team still had the firepower. But two things doomed them in the end that led to them from 1st place to 3rd place in a matter of 30 minutes: (1) inexperienced defense and (2) false sense of security. Almost everyone, including myself, thought that BC was going to run away with the HE regular season. But no, their defense was very young and vulnerable. It became evident, and ugly, during the last few weeks of the regular season including losses to BU, UNH, UMass, and even Lowell (a 6 - 0 win, followed by a 6-3 loss?!?!). I do not blame Cory Schneider. He is a great goalie, and stole a number of games for BC. The freshman class was okay. Nathan Gerbe was a solid player, but his numbers was not anything I expected. Chris Collins will probably most likely be part of the "Hobey Hat-Trick." There is a very good chance that Brian Boyle will leave for the NHL (Los Angeles is very high on the kid). I am sure Brian will elaborate more on BC's regular season.

2. Maine - Things could only get better for Maine after being swept in January by Boston University, because they could not be any worse. And indeed, things got a lot better. The team became healthy, and went on a hot-streak for the remainder of the regular season.

1. Boston University - WHO KNEW! Picked to finish 5th in the HE preseason poll. From being at all the home games, I could say that near the end of the first-half of the season, things were looking bad --really bad. In the first week of January, BU actually fell out of the national rankings! Their record: 7-8-2. It was looking like aDr. Jekyll-and-Mr. Hyde season, and I wasn't sure if things were going to get worse or better. But then that dramatic win vs. Maine at home. The rest is history. Only one blip on the radar screen after that: to UNH a la post-Beanpot meltdown. The freshman class was better than advertised: was second behind the Senior class in scoring, interestingly enough. Oh, and the white-line.

It's Official: Coach John Chaney Retires

2006-03-13T14:45:00.000-05:00

Thanks goodness, the nightmare is over. Ride into the sunset, coach: fare-thee-well mighty warrior. Oh, and John Calipari, you won.

NCAA Basketball Tournament: Preliminary Ramblings

2006-03-12T18:47:00.000-05:00

* What kind of marijuana leaf was the selection committee using?

* First, ESPN became the Duke Channel. Now, it seems that their region is gift-wrapped for them.

* Damn, Boston College have to travel that far for their first round game?

* Oral Roberts is back! So is Georgetown. I'm calling this one: Oral Roberts will be the first 16th seed to pull off a major upset.

* Did George Washington really have THAT BAD of a regular season schedule to garnish them a #8 seed (even though their regular season record was outstanding)?

* I don't understand how Tennessee got the #2 seed.

Flame on...

Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe can.

2006-03-11T13:04:00.000-05:00

i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! if you can raed tihs forwrad it.

Again Mindless Blogging

2006-03-05T11:41:00.000-05:00

After reading Ming's gears getting grinded again, I thought about my mindless blogging that I haven't approached lately.Why do local network news programs continuely say we have breaking news after the story has been broken days before. Most times these tv stations just rip the headlines from the globe or herald and say they broke the news. They don't do any journalistic digging like the newspapers do. They just sit back and wait for the local rags to do their dirty work for them. Also, is it necessary for the stations to put a snow alert in the corner of the screen to alert us that snow is coming, then watch as the storm goes south and out to sea. Get rid of the warning. That's why the blizzard of '78 still has that romantic notion about it. We didn't see it coming. As an aside, I know someone that was a blizzard baby, and now she is getting married in May. Lucky bastard that Tim. Mr. Butch has been very lucky this winter with the temperature. Very soon he will be back to telling stories and yelling at the Yankee fans. Speaking of baseball, I think the Yankee pitching staff is going to be atricous. Age and injuries over the years are finally gonna catch up with them to the point that it will be their downfall to second place this year. The Red Sox on the other hand have a surplus of pitching that will come in handy in late August and September as the kids come up to save the arms and innings of the Sox starters. Having Hansen, Delcarmen, Lester, Alvarez, and Papelbon is going to be a huge advantage down the home stretch. Speaking of the home stretch, the Bruins are going to fall short and I can't wait to hear who Dale Arnold is going to blame for them not making the playoffs. Remember Dale, you said they were Stanley Cup Contenders, not pretenders. On the other hand, the Celtics are going in the right direction. Keep losing the games and play the youngsters, it will help in the long run as they develop their skills now. The funny thing is the Celts could turn this team into a copy of the Phoenix Suns or even the old Denver Nuggets when they had Michael Adams running the point for Doug Moe. They need to draft one more greyhound to compliment Tony Allen, Gerald Green, Ryan Gomes, Delonte West. Is Walter Davis available in this draft? I don't think BC will advance past the second round in the big dance because they aren't getting much production from Louis Hinnet and Sean Marshall on a nightly basis. They will only go as far as they can if they get to face teams with no interior play. Teams that light up the three will burn them as Sean Williams will be rendered useless down below. Speaking of tall freaks of defense, Aren't you pissed off that the cartoon network is cancelling Justice League Unlimited after this season. This is a great cartoon that tells good story lines and has plenty of behind the scenes humor that most little kids don't get. Will Batman ever get Wonder Women in bed like the Green Latern did with Hawkgirl. Will Lex Luthor free Brainiac from his cell so he can rid Lex of his co-patriot enemy Gorilla Grodd. Will their be another sexily drawn character like the Huntress. The real life huntress now resides in Baltimore as Anna Benson has graced the cover of FMH this month with a one of a kind baseball bra. Anna's hoping her hubby Kris win's the cy young award so she can perosnally give him the award while doing it on the mound. I thought it was Tony Davoli's fault that Stacey Kiebler didn't win the Dancing With The Stars trophy. While the other two contestants did gimmick dances that worked, especially Drew Lachey/Cheyl Burke's rodeo dance, Tony choreographed the dance steps to Saturday Night Fever step by step or was it the dance steps to Airplane, either way it was lame and the judges let him know it. Stacey was the best dancer on the show for three months and in one misguided judgement they fell to third. At least she will get a tv show out of this exposure. Speaking of exposure. I'm rooting for Ayla Brown to go far on American Idol. Another aside to this is that Ayla's father, Senator Scott Brown once was named Cosmopolitan's sexiest man of the year back in the late 70's. He was still in college when his sister LeeAnn sent in a photo of him and he won. Don't you hate when magazines have computer discs as inserts and so they are a pain in ass when trying to stick them in skinny mailboxes. Here's another problem in Boston. There is no parking in the city. Where are you suppose to park your car when all the parking is taken up by residentail or two hour parking. If I was a tourist, why would I come to Boston and pay 30 bucks to park in a garage or 40 bucks for a parking violation. Just stay home. BCN had a great give-away prize last week to see U2 in Hawaii. This week they are giving away a trip to see Metallica and Guns 'n' Roses in Dublin. Though I would be cautious about this one. Last time these two bands hooked up together was back in 1991 in Montreal. That is when James Hatfield burned his arm on some pyrotechnic flames and the band had to stop playing. They asked the headliners G'n'R to go 0n, but they refused and the crowd started a riot at the Molson Center. I don't think Metallica has forgotten about that one. The top five songs on my Ipod as I write this , the Arcade Fire - Wake Up, The Brandos - Gettysburg, Pearl Jam - Rats, the White Stripes - Ball and Biscuit, and the Pogues - Thousands are Sailing. Can you believe that the debut album by the Artic Monkeys got named as the fourth best album of all time by NME in Britian. Have they ever heard of the Beatles, Pink Floyd, the rolling stones, or even Coldplay. I coming around on Coldplay as I intiatly hated the new album, but after a few months of hearing "fix you" and "talk" I really think this is a very good album. Finally as the NFL is close to extinction, heres hoping that the Pats and Adam Vinateri come to terms. If it weren't for his right foot, there would be no champiionships. Speaking of championships, Congradulations go out to the Unknowns for finally winning the Wakefield College Scholarship Foundation's Trivia contest. After so many close calls, The Unknowns finally conquered their demons and claimed the trophy that belongs up there with the Stanley Cup.

What Really Grinds My Gears, Part 6

2006-03-01T14:56:00.000-05:00

You know what really grinds my gears, the results of our fine education system. From MSNBC.com:

"The study by the new McCormick Tribune Freedom Museum found that 22 percent of Americans could name all five Simpson family members, compared with just one in 1,000 people who could name all five First Amendment freedoms."

See full article at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11611015/?GT1=7850

Yes, no child is being left behind.

We're Baaaack!

2006-02-20T14:55:00.000-05:00

That's right, Dante & The Brick are back on the air. I would first like to apologize for not posting to this blog in a while. I have been preoccupied with school, games, and the new radio program. As most of you already know, Dante and I had a radio program while at Boston College. For the last few years, we've been trying to come up with some way that a station would actually let us on the air. And then we found WMFO, 91.5 on the FM dial in the metro Boston area.
Our timeslot for now is every Saturday night from 12-2 AM (technically Sunday morning). We are replacing Saturday Night Live, because frankly it sucks now.
For all of you outside the station broadcasting radius, it is available on http://www.wmfo.org From there, click on where it says "Live Webcast" toward the upper-left hand side.
While we are in the studio, you can reach us by calling 617-627-3800 or if you are on AIM (Instant Messanger), our screen name is "DJ WMFO".
If you would like a little taste of the show from this past weekend, go to this link, SHOW FROM FEB 19th, 2006 Once it loads up, go to about 10 minutes into the MP3, this is where our show begins.

Also, if you have any comments, questions, or ideas for the show. Or if you would like to be a part of the show, leave a message for us in the comments to this post.

Still the "It" Girl

2006-02-14T01:17:00.000-05:00

Sasha Cohen. Any questions?

The It Girl

2006-02-12T20:23:00.000-05:00

Every 4 years at the Olympics, the media anoints one of the athletes as the It girl of the games. You can look back through the years to It girls like Peggy Fleming, Dorothy Hamill, and Katrina Witt as examples. Well it took all of one day for me to find the It Girl of the Torino games. It is Kari Traa of Norway. This is her fourth time at the Olympics in the free style skiing and especially the moguls. Just look at the ad from Ultra Sports showcasing my It girl. And yes, she has no underwear on. I think the rest is history.

U2Grammys

2006-02-09T09:03:00.000-05:00

Once again U2 has been crowned the best band in the world. Another five grammys in all the categories they were nominated for. That goes with the three grammys they picked up last year for Vertigo. And they put on the best performance of the night with Vertigo and One. I like this version of One better than the original because Mary J. Blige sings it the way Bono had intended it to sound like when they recorded it back in 1992.

Happy Birthday Arnold!

2006-02-08T16:09:00.000-05:00

That's right ... he's may be 38 now, but he's still 4 foot 8 inches tall.
The only quote I could get from Gary was
"Whatchooo talkin' about Willis?!?!"

Maxim Super Bowl Party

2006-02-06T16:35:00.000-05:00

So you must have heard about Maxim's huge Super Bowl party. It is now known worldwide as the party of all Super Bowl parties. Here is an exclusive picture from the party ... ENJOY!

Super Bowl Predictions

2006-02-03T12:55:00.000-05:00

Here it is, your chance to predict the Super Bowl winner, the final score, and any other stupid predictions you want to make. If one of them happens to come true, you will be a Bricks House legend, otherwise you will join the rest of the media in making outlandish predictions only hoping one of them actually comes true.

Here is my first prediction, Ben Roethlishamburger will not acknowledge these pictures as authentic (even though they obviously are). You can tell they were taken recently, by the length of his beard. He's always been clean cut until the last couple months. These pictures are very funny, but I don't think he will be in a drunken stuper for the Super Bowl.

Even with that said, I'll take the Seahawks in a close one. Remember to leave your Super Bowl prediction in the comments.

Seahawks 23, Steelers 17

Weathering It

2006-01-30T19:17:00.000-05:00

Are you as fed up as I am with the current so-called weather forecasters. It was only Saturday before the nimrods who call the weather predicted that we are going to get hit with a huge nor-easter. That was Saturday and the storm was only on the Washington state coastline. Now it's Monday night and it's already been down graded to 1 to 3 inches of possible snow and rain. It's like sportsradio talk show hosts building up the story to a fever pitch only to turn around and apologize for misreading the situation. Only in this case, the weathermen can't say I'm sorry. Ask Todd Gross how his career is going after blowing another potential "perfect storm" prediction only to see the storm never materialize and go out to sea and the rest of us get pissed at him for getting us riled up for the big storm. You now it used to be a simpler time when if you saw Shelby Scott with an umbrella and microphone, you knew it was a bad storm. Where have you gone Shelby Scott, a lonely nation looks to you for answers. As I load up the car to make another sand and salt run, and then a trip to Home Depot for a new shovel, I just curse the name of every meterologist in Boston. Except Mish Michaels. At least she is hot looking.

Crispy Treats

2006-01-29T17:50:00.000-05:00

I will say it now. The Red Sox will be better in 2006 than 2005 and very close to 2004. This team needed an infusion of young major league ready talent and they got it in Coco Crisp, Josh Beckett, Kevin Youkilis, Jonathan Papelbon, and Craig Hansen. Instead of following the Yankee way of dealing away all the farm league prospects and signing over priced free agents, thus losing valuable draft picks. The Red Sox are finally going the route that Theo designed when he was elevated to general manager. We want to be a farm system factory, was Theo's quote from his press conference years ago and it looks like it is coming true. The team has upgraded at almost every position since the season ended. At catcher, Varitek stays the same but having a young backup catcher like Bard will only help relieve some innings off Varitek's work load. Youkilis is a big upgrade over the declining Millar and with Snow to replace him the late innings, a ball should never get by him into the stands. Loretta was an allstar two years ago for the Padres, and not just the token allstar like Scott Cooper was for the Red Sox. Loretta was one of best hitters in the two slot for the Padres in 2004. Manny is Manny, and Big Papi is Big Papi. Alex Gonzalez is a former gold glove winner and still plays with that ability unlike Renteria who also was a former gold glove winner who just plain sucked in the field. The difference is Gonzalez has power in his bat, he will not hit for a high average, but when your batting last, and have been in the National league and are used to bunting and have home run power, how can you go wrong. Mike Lowell is the reigning gold glove winner and is coming off a bad hitting year. But this guy hit 32 homers only two years ago in that awful park to hit home runs. He should be good for a 285 average and 27 homeruns. Trot Nixon will be back in rightfield and is due for his second breakthrough season as his contract is up. This leads to Coco. As Theo said, Coco is no Johnny Damon and he is right. Coco is better than Damon at their same ages. Damon never showed the power Coco has at age 26. Coco right now is a better fielder, thrower, bunter, runner, and equal hitter. Damon was the best leadoff hitter in the game the last two years but you can't count the past. You must project the future. Coco at six years younger and making 3 million a year vs an older declining Damon who makes 13 million a year is a no brainer. Good luck to Johnny patroling spacious Yankee Stadium centerfield. The Yankees are going to need two cutoff men to assist Damon. Oh by the way, Johnny got booed at Madison Square Garden when his mug went up on the jumbotron. Only 2o more days to the real boong starts in Tampa. The pitching staff should be the strong point of this team. Schilling will be back to the ace. Beckett will follow in line and absorb all of Schilling's knowledge to the number two pitcher. Wakefield, Clement, and Papelbon round out the starters. David Wells will be traded for some obscure minor league player, and Arroyo will be back to what he does best which is being a swingman. I think the bullpen will be the deepest in baseball. Lots of power arms to cover the 6th, 7th, and 8th innings. Tavarez, Seanez, Timlin, Riske, Dinardo, and Hansen could be a devasting group with Foulke at the end. Foulke should have the MVP of both the American League Championships and the World Series. He should be over his injuries and messy personal life. Foulke usually has three strong seasons and then a stinker. It's a trend he started with the White Sox and A's. So the stinker is behind him and it's back to his old dominating self. I'm predicting that the Red Sox will finally win the American League East as the Yankees succumb to old age and injuries.

Wally World

2006-01-27T12:07:00.000-05:00

In his latest attempt to make the Celtics the whitest basketball team this side of Utah, Danny Ainge traded fan-favorite Ricky D and fan punching bag Mark Blount for Wally Szerczbiak (not spelled like that, but you know who I mean). Who knows which way this trade will end up? Is it worth a shot? Sure it is. Wally is a much different player than Ricky. He is a pure shooter. The Celtics have athletic wingmen, Tony Allen and Gerald Green, in the fold. Wally brings a dimension the team has lacked. Outside of Raef LaFrentz, there were no other white starters on the team. I love the idea of sending Blount out of town. This just solidifies what has been happening the last 5 games or so. More minutes for Perkins and Jefferson, especially in the fourth quarter, when valuable experience is truly gained.
I did a little research on the results of close games for the Celtics this season. It seems like they have lost a ton of games by just a few points, and it turns out true. They have lost 3 games by 1 point, 4 more by 2 points, 1 by 3 points, and 4 more by 4 points. That's 12 losses by 4 points or less. On the other hand, they have only won 6 games by 4 points or more. Meaning they are 6-12 in games decided by 4 points or less.
Now I'm not saying that the Celts would be a great team if they could only pull out those close games, I'm saying that they should be playing Perkins and Jefferson down the stretch of games. Giving them valuable experience that will pay off in the near future. I don't know why it took the Celtics brass to figure this out, I've been saying this since the beginning of the season.
Wally need not to be the savior of the Celtics, just fit in and don't run your mouth. Make your open shots and the media idiots will soon be comparing you to Larry Bird. When you earn some Tommy points, you will earn my respect.

I Have A Dream, Part Deux

2006-01-20T13:50:00.000-05:00

In this The Bricks House file photo, Nagin tries to look intelligent by sitting next to Dubbyah.

New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin told a crowd gathered on Monday for a march honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that New Orleans will be "chocolate" again. Now it is true that New Orleans was 60 percent black before Hurricane Katrina devistated the city. It is also true that the neighborhoods of New Orleans Katrina spared are predominately white. Although these are the facts, you just can NOT say something like that. Can you imagine if a white mayor of some city said the opposite, that the city will once again be white, the Reverend Jesse Jackson and his sidekick Al Sharpton would be calling for that mayor's head. There is absolutely no way that the white mayor would survive the PR onslaught he would receive. The guy would probably have to take up residence in the middle of nowhere Idaho, Bill Buckner style. Nagin, on the other hand, is getting away with it for the most part. Is it just me, or does it seem that because of the racist history of America, we (the American media, public figures) are now grossly overcompensating, as to not look as if we are racist. And don't try to tell me that Nagin's comment wasn't racist, that's all it was, a racist statement. I long for the day when a spade can indeed be called a spade again. I'm sick of "political correctness", it is the downfall of our society. Let's be real. Don't get me wrong, we as a country have much bigger problems than this, first of all, our president is a buffoon. But I'll save my breath on that subject for now. Honestly though, you have to think at least ONE person read Nagin's speech before he presented it. Did this person think it was a good idea to say New Orleans will be chocolate again? Nagin's comment is ironic because it goes against everything MLK fought for. Dr. King dreamed of equality, that whites and blacks can live together and be one, not claim cities as "chocolate", shame on you Mayor Nagin.

State of the Union

2006-01-18T12:51:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week, President Bush or Dubbyah as I call him, announced his plan for (as you see in the picture to the left) "A Brighter Future for America". Let it first be noted that Dubbyah looks like a midget in this great picture. Nonetheless, he proudly proclaimed that he had a brilliant new strategy. The key part of this strategy was unveiled first, when he boldly stated, "I will not be running for re-election in 2008". No one stopped him to tell him that he CAN'T run in 2008, it was kind of like Belushi's inspirational speech in Animal House, everyone just whispered to each other, "let him go, he's on a roll". Dubbyah let everyone know his future plans once he's out of the Oval Office by saying, "I'm going to go back to what I used to do, the same thing I do during my 40 weeks of vacation now, I'm going to lick the orange-ness off my fingertips after I eat Doritos, that is of course if I don't choke of them first."

He then went on to talk about the other part of his brilliant new strategy. Dubbyah explained his plan to always have enough troops in Iraq. It is simply called, "No Child Left Behind". From now on, he says, "All children of the country, from the east coast of Texas all the way to the western part of Texas, the day they turn 18, they will immediately be sent to Iraq, no child will be LEFT BEHIND!"

As you can see in the picture to the right, Laura Bush asks a child how old they are, not knowing any better, he answered her "I just turned 12 yesterday". And she responded "That's great, only 6 more years". Poor little bastard, he has no idea about the trouble his right-wing holier than thou parents have gotten him into.

Dubbyah is correct that there will be a brighter future for America, unfortunely we have three more years before that brighter future can start to happen.

Bad Credit

2006-01-15T11:59:00.000-05:00

You hear the catch phrase all the time on sports radio. " I give him credit for that". Where did this absurd phrase first originate from? It really grinds my gears as Ming would say when I hear talk show hosts and sidekick wannabes like Pete Shepard rip a player and then turn around and say, "I give him all the credit in the world for what he has done." Who the f**k cares if you give them credit. Do you really think these professional players care if a talk show gives them credit for something they may or maynot have done. Do these announcers really think they are the pope and giving them their blessings for a good or bad deed. They are not. A perfect example is Jake Plummer. I've heard all this past week leeding up to the game that Plummer has been a turnover machine in his career. But of course the talk show blowhards have to throw in, I give credit to Plummer for this year, but he still stinks. Why do they have to give credit in the first place. Hey, Plummer good year, lousy career path, and no credit for changing his ways. There are others like Dale Arnold, who is a living, ticking, cliche spouter who has no backbone to even suggest that Mike O'Connell should be fired. He just dances around the words or as he likes to say time to time, "Semantics". A perfect example is he will just say that he won't be surprised if Sullivan and O'Connell get let go by the weekend. That's a cute way of not ripping his meal ticket. Just say it, Fire those two and move on.Show some balls, you are the mouthpiece for the listeners in radioland. Of course, Arnold has his own little space in my hatred of his vocabulary. For once I just wish an intelligent caller would get through and lambast him for his pre-season Bruins forcast.Too many times a caller has got through and started to rip Arnold, only to be cut off by him and try to turn the tables on the caller by saying what would you do or what do you want me to do, like I have any power over there on Causeway Street. He is the one that got all of Bruin's nation excited that the team was on the cusp of Lord Stanley's Cup with vast amount of money they saved by not resigning Rolston, Knuble, Gonchar, McGillis,and Nylander(ouch, that one hurt). He praised the organ-I-zation for going out and signing Leetch,Zhamov,Scatchard,McEachearn(His quote:He still got wheels)and resigning Murray and Thorton and agreeing with Samsanov to a one year deal. Dale Arnold is the anti-christ of Hockey. We all know his excuse is that noone knew that the 24 percent rollback would go through and that the players association would allow it to decrease every players contract. And that if the Bruin's brass had forseen the rollback then they would have locked up their good players ahead of time. Arnold said the Red Wings, Rangers, and Flyers would have to dump their good players to get under the salary cap and that the Bruins would be there for the picking of prime players. Guess what Dale, It didn't happen as you said it would. The other GMs had a clue, as you like to say(Don't have a clue) and they locked up their good players and let their dead wood drift away.(To the Bruins)Yes Dale, you are the reason, why all of the Bruins fans are outraged at this team and it all comes back to your big mouth. Shut your pie hole next time and let you partner do the talking.

Good News for Guys!

2006-01-14T13:10:00.000-05:00

Her name is Jenn Sterger. She goes to Florida State University (FSU). She famous for her smokin'-hot candids photos on the Internet (especially on Facebook), and on TV at FSU football games. She also has her own website http://www.jennifersterger.com/. Well recently, she agreed to do a photo shoot for Playboy and Maxim. Check out the news release at http://www.tbt.com/news/article16684.ece. The news release have some incredible photos of her and her hot friends (who I think are even hotter than she is). Oh, of course, see below for more pictures:

See more photos of her and her friends on Facebook at http://fsu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=70103&amp;amp;page=1&l=7920d&id=5226986. With girls like, no wonder why Florida State doesn't have to cheat as much as other schools to get recruits. Now, if only they can recruit a kicker.

The Revelations on the Howard Stern Show, and My Predictions

2006-01-13T16:19:00.000-05:00

From HowardStern.com

The people (in no particular order):

1. Fred
2. Howard
3. Benjy
4. Artie
5. Robin
6. Sal the Stockbroker
7. Gary
8. Richard Christy
9. Scott Salem
10. JD
11. Jason

And now the revelations:

1. I cheated on my wife and she caught me...

2. I once hid in a bathroom closet and pleasured myself when my family members went to the bathroom...

3. In the last year, I got a girl pregnant and had to pay for her abortion...

4. I think I'm addicted to porn - I jerk off twice a day and prefer to masturbate than have real sex...

5. I have spent well over $10,000 on internet porn...

6. My buddy and I once ordered massage girls to our hotel room, but they ripped us off and we were left staring at each other in our underwear...

7. I have pleasured myself with meat and vegetables...

8. I have a half-sister I've never met and don't want to...

9. I've had cosmetic surgery...

10. A guy once blew his load on my chest...

11. I once had my stomach pumped for alcohol poisoning and when I woke up in the hospital, an acquaintance of the same sex was fondling my genitals...

My predictions:

Revelation #1: (7)
Revelation #2: (9)
Revelation #3: (11)
Revelation #4: (6)
Revelation #5: (8)
Revelation #6: (10)
Revelation #7: (5)
Revelation #8: (4)
Revelation #9: (2)
Revelation #10: (3)
Revelation #11: (1)

Someone Had A Bad Medulla Oblongata, and What To Do With Roger's Bowling Balls

2006-01-12T12:45:00.000-05:00

As you may know, I bowl in a Wednesday night (candlepin) bowling league with Brian and Moe. Last November (before Thanksgiving), Roger Curran (a.k.a. Mermaid Man from Spongebob Squarepants) was on my team. Our team was doing very poorly, and we were not having too much fun. My average during that time was a 78, which is very poor, but I was starting to get better. One night at the end of a second string, Roger complete lost it, hurled his ball down the alley, and then screamed "THAT'S IT, I QUIT!" He put on his coat, and headed out the door. Roger also gave me his set of bowling balls, that he had used for a good number of years.

Roger hasn't been heard from since that incident. And maybe that's a good thing. Since his departure from the bowling league, my average has jumped to an 84. My teammate and I have been winning games, and we are having fun again. I have been using the bowling balls that Roger left for me on that infamous night. Now my question is, what should I do with Roger's bowling balls when the season is over? There are a few options:

A. Oh what the hell, just keep them.

B. Return them to Roger.

C. Give the balls to Grandpa Bob, who runs the bowling league, so he can pelt them at Roger.

D. Shred / burn them, and let no one know about it.

E. Shred / burn them, and give the remains to his brother, Grandpa Bob, and leave a note: "I broke your brother's balls!" Ever listen to the song "Bob Barker" on the Triumph the Insult Comic Dog CD? NOTE: Such practice is pretty common in Columbia where kidnapping is a big business. Kidnappers will take a male member of a family, and demand randsom if the family wants him back. If the randsom is not paid, or not paid in time, then the kidnappers cut off a body part (the testicles are popular), and send it to the family.

F. Other

Any insights would be great. Thanks.

If at first you don't succeed ...

2006-01-11T14:18:00.000-05:00

Eminem, Ex-Wife Apply for Marriage License

01/11/2006 10:01 AM, AP

Slim Shady and his ex are going to get married again.

Kim Mathers, Eminem's former wife, has applied for a license to marry Marshall Bruce Mathers III, aka Eminem.

The application was filed with the Macomb County clerk's office and was to be ready on Thursday, the clerk's office said Wednesday.

The couple has 30 days from the application date to remarry in Michigan, but information on the wedding has been scant since the rap superstar announced in December that the two would get back together.

Eminem and the woman known to hip-hop fans merely as "Kim" reconciled in late 2004. They had married in 1999, and their divorce, finalized in 2001, included an ugly divorce and custody battle over his young daughter.

Both grew up in suburbs along Eight Mile Road, Detroit's northern border.

And you wonder why more than 50% of marriages end up in divorce. White trash like this are skewing the statistics. I would say there is a 90% chance that these two are divorced(again) in less than 2 years. The only reason Eminem is staying in this relationship is because he needs material to write songs about. He has been rehashing the same crap about his wife, turned ex-wife, turned wife, and his daughter for years now. How long will it be before no one cares about Eminem anymore? I hope soon.

Fan Mail from Morons #2

2006-01-11T10:08:00.000-05:00

From: Jon Diss <*****@gmail.com>
Date: Jan 10, 2006 6:37 PM
Subject: Fan Mail from Mormons
To: thebrickshouse@gmail.com

Dante,

My skin and eyes are turning yellow, my urine is orange, and I haven't been hungry for about a month. My skin is really itchy, I'm nauseous all the time, and I have a bitter taste in my mouth. Also, I'm very confused and can't figure out if I should shave the fur on my tongue. I'm pretty much an alcoholic - do you think that has anything to do with this problem? Please help me!

-Jon Diss

----------------------------------------------------

Thanks for writing, Jon. I mean that.

It's not everyday I get to bust out my old medical school doctor's robe and stethoscope to save another life and prove once again that I am so much better than everybody else.

After reviewing your symptoms, I say with 100% confidence that this is a cut and dry case of Scurvy. Don't worry though. This is something you can beat yourself, without any medical attention.

The leading causes of scurvy are a Vitamin C deficiency and homelessness. So, I would suggest getting a house for starters, you damn hobo. Become a useful and well-rounded member of society, and maybe you won't be visited by plagues.

Also, you can once again put your alcoholism to work for you. When drinking vodka, just mix it up with some OJ, and that should wrap up your Vitamin C issue.

Also, you'd do well to remember that you're wasting my time by writing me with this crap. We here at The Bricks House have been very pleased with reader response to "Fan Mail from Morons," but most of what you guys send is crap. I want some interesting e-mails, people. Stuff about Ming, coitus, the old radio show, or the band Extreme. Not the garbage you just send me, Jon.

Now get your Scurvy ass under the old overpass with the rest of the degenerates and try to stay warm by lighting a barrel of trash on fire. You'll need your rest, for tomorrow is Hobo-hunting season.

Doctorly yours,
Dante

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Have your own questions for Dante?
E-mail them to thebrickshouse@gmail.com
With the Subject: Fanmail from Morons

What Really Grinds My Gears, Part 5

2006-01-10T14:52:00.000-05:00

You know what really grinds my gears, idiots who decide to go into the "12 items or less" line at the grocery store even though it is obvious to everyone that they clearly have way above 12 items in their cart. If someone is found with more than 12 items, the groceries should be taken away from them, all customers behind them in line should be able to BEAT THE LIVING CRAP out of them, and then they should be banned from the store forever.

Another thing, anybody who is using a cart SHOULD NOT be allowed in the line. Instead of 12 items or less, I'm calling for a line where to enter you must be carrying all of your groceries in your hands. NO CARTS OR BASKETS allowed. If you can't carry all of the groceries with your hands only, too bad! To all those people with WAY too many items in MY line, F U!

The Sulu Dance

2006-01-09T11:33:00.000-05:00

I awoke this morning bright and early to hear the beginning of the first Sirius broadcast for Howard Stern. And whose voice to I hear first, George Takei. That's right ... he's the new voice of the Stern show. Takei will be the announcer of the show for the forseeable future. Though most of his work will be taped and scripted. He will be live in studio for this whole first week.

This is a day of celebration here at The Bricks House. This post you are reading is post #100 on The Bricks House. It took us 105 days, but we now have 100 posts. It is our goal to have at least 1 post per day. We have been slacking and we owe you. While your here, check out the Dante & The Brick audio clips, a new feature here on the site. Thank you for your support and keep coming back for more great material.

The Weekend Wrap

2006-01-08T23:22:00.000-05:00

So long G-men, Bungals, Jaguars, and Bucs ... we won't miss you. Tiki, we here at The Bricks House feel sorry for you, as you have no help at QB. Eli has something called "Manning-itis", a virus that causes choking during the winter, usually around early January. And Bungals, we also feel bad for you. You got screwed, your first playoff game since Boomer Esiason was calling the signals, and your star QB goes down on the second play of the game. And just to make it worse, it happened during a 66 yard completion ... what a strange game. You ever see a game hit a home run then go down for the season (ya we have, his name is Gabe Kapler) ... but honestly, it doesn't happen often. Jaguars, you never stood a chance, maybe next year you'll get Indy in the first round. And the Bucs, who cares, they really suck.

So we're going to Denver. Is anyone scared of the Broncos? I know they beat the Patriots earlier this season at Mile High, but we all witnessed how much that mattered last season in Pittsburgh. This matchup with Denver has caused dissention in my house, as Jenn(girlfriend) keeps saying she likes both teams. That's fine, I can deal. The game is Saturday at 8pm, this means I will be watching the game from Dan's wedding. I wonder how many people will be around the television. Jenn says it is really rude of me if I watch the game while at the wedding. But its either sit at the table and make small talk, or go to the TV and make Pats talk. I'll go for the latter thank you. Plus, I'll be closer to the bar.

Stuart Appleby made it a 3-peat at the Mercedes Championships, the first tournament of the PGA season. 28 tournament winners from last season were in this field. Appleby needed a sudden death hole to finish off a late-charging Vijay Singh. While Vijay did shoot a 7-under 66 on Sunday to tie Appleby after regulation, he then choked on the first playoff hole. Needing a 8-footer to force a second playoff hole, he pushed it right, and called it a day. Not a bad day though, I think we would all like to be playing golf in Hawaii, while making a mere $630,000 for a second place finish.

Vince Young has decided to enter the NFL draft. So if Reggie Bush does indeed come out early, and the Texans take him like they say they will, do you take V.Young with the second pick if you are the Saints? The Aaron Brooks experiment is apparently over with Tood Bouman starting the last few games this season. If I were Vince, I would have stayed in school, then take the chance I will end up in New Orleans or wherever the Aints will play next year. But if you're the Saints, do you take Vince Young or Matt Leinart? It's a tough choice, but I would like you would have to take Young. That would mean Leinart would be there for the Titans at #3. Could Leinart be McNair's replacement in Nashville? It would reunite Leinart and Norm Chow. Just a thought.

I need to hit the sack, the revolution begins at 6:00AM tomorrow. And this revolution will not be televised (at least live). Let Freedom Ring.

No More Peaches, Peaches for Me

2006-01-06T13:07:00.000-05:00

Peach Bowl name changing

The Peach Bowl's board of directors voted to agree to a new five-year endorsement deal with Chick-Fil-A worth $22 million. The new deal would change the name of the game to the Chick-Fil-A Bowl starting in 2006. The game began as the Peach Bowl in 1968 at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium and retained the name after a move to the Georgia Dome. Chick-Fil-A has been the title sponsor since 1997.

The last contract between the bowl and Chick-Fil-A was a three year deal worth $9 million. The game's payout to teams from the SEC and ACC will increase to over $3 million from the current $2.4 million, making the game the 2nd highest paying bowl outside of the BCS bowls.

The bowl is also trying to upgrade the quality of team from each conference with the ACC nearly ready to give the game 2nd choice behind the conference champion. Similar discussions are ongoing with the SEC. The bowl hopes to become the eventual fifth BCS game.

ACC to shift #2 team from Gator to Peach

The ACC will announce today that it's number two team will no longer be slotted to the Gator Bowl, but will now be assigned to the Peach Bowl, beginning in 2006.

The Peach Bowl, which just reached a new naming arrangement with Chick-fil-A, will be boosting the payout that the ACC receives from $2.4 million this year to $3.25 million in 2006. The Peach is also in negotiations with the SEC boost it's participant from the #4 or #5 team to a higher rated team. If they are unable to get a higher pick, the SEC's payout from the game will remain at $2.4 million.

This is a great move for the ACC, because it gets the #2 team out of Jacksonville where they (presumably) just finished playing the ACC championship game. Of course, the extra revenue doesn't hurt either.

You might think this is a knee-jerk reaction by the ACC because their representative (Miami) in this year's PEACH Bowl was blown out 40-3, but this was indeed announced before "The U" got their ass handed to them by LSU. I believe the ACC knows they can send their #3 team to the Gator Bowl, and still beat up on whatever Big East school goes there. I've always thought the PEACH Bowl is the best bowl outside of New Years Day, and this move will just enhance the quality of the game. And don't worry, no matter what kind of naming scheme they come up with, it will always be the PEACH Bowl to me.

The Grandaddy of Them All

2006-01-04T23:59:00.000-05:00

Last night's Orange Bowl was the battle of the Great-Grandaddies (Bowden vs Paterno) ... but tonight has been THE Grandaddy of Them All, and it is not even over yet. The clock reads 12:01 AM, USC is up 38-33 with just under 4 minutes remaining. The game has resembled a great prize fight, and no we haven't seen one of those in 20 years. I'm talking Ali-Frazier, Hagler-Leonard type prize fights. Back and forth, then forth and back. 15 rounds of punch and counterpunch, not like the 12 rounders they call fights these days.

2:45 remaining on the clock and Texas can't stop the run. That has been the theme of the game. Neither team can stop each other, at least after the initial butterflies wore off. USC has 4th and 1 from the Texas 45. Does Pistol Pete Carroll go for it? I say yes! There is 2:13 remaining, Texas has 2 timeouts left after using one to stop the clock right now.

There going! And they are stopped! Or wait, here is the spot, its short, but they are going to measure. He's a good 2 feet short (my guess) ... here come the chains ... A foot short! Not exactly an innovative call by Pete, but we'll keep the second guessing for later.

Texas has what they wanted, a chance to win the national championship ... let's see what Vince Young is made of. USC has blitzed Young 2 straight plays, he doesn't know what's going on. 3rd and 12 ... 1:35 left ... what a game ... not even close, wait, flag on the play ... its on USC! Facemask and a 1st down for the Horns! Wow! Oh ya, he clearly grabbed the facemask. Clock is running 1:00 left ... Texas 2nd and 1 at the 36. They're reviewing a play for nothing, the ball came out about 2 seconds after he was down. Pistol Pete looks as calm as ever. If I were him, I'd want my offense on the field to win it, not relying on my defense to make a stop.

Vince Young makes defenders look silly (what's new), down to the 30 ... 1st down. 0:53 left. Another 15 yards on a crossing pattern, out of bounds, 0:45 left. If I were USC, let the score and leave enough time to score yourself, you're not stopping them.

Back of the endzone, jump ball, out of bounds before he came down with it. 2nd down, 0:39 left. Young battles defenders on a draw, down to the 9 ... 3rd and 5. 0:30 left. Timeout Texas, they now have 1 left. Time is not an issue for Texas. But it is for the Trojans. Could USC's 34 game winning streak be coming to an end? It's going to take a miracle. But we've seen it happen before (Notre Dame anybody?). Incomplete pass on 3rd down, he threw into double coverage. 4th and 5! It all comes down to this! Blitz! They don't get him, TOUCHDOWN! What a fitting way for them to score, a Young sprint to the pylon.

Texas going for 2. 39-38 right now. Timeout USC??!!!?? That's there last timeout, there are still 19 seconds left. Bonehead timeout. The 2-point conversion was not worth that timeout. Let them score the 2 if you have to, but damn you need that timeout! Young draw play, they score it anyways ... should have kept that timeout Trojans.

Fellow Brick's House poster Moe is not feeling good right now. But don't give up yet, Mr. Heisman is back to receive the kickoff, like he might see the ball, YA RIGHT!
Squib kick, returned to the 31 ... 0:16 left ... damn they could use that timeout about now. Let's see if they have another miracle. Shovel pass to Bush, huge gain! 0:08 left ... no timeouts left. They are at the 43, they need about 15 more yards to give the kicker a chance. Incomplete GAME IS OVER!

Congrats to Texas on back-to-back Rose Bowl victories. Talk about an Instant Classic. This one should be repeated non-stop on ESPN Classic for the next month. Pete Carroll is interviewed on the field, and he loses with class. He did the same as the Patriots coach, and that just didn't sit well with the fans in Boston. They wanted him to be pissed, but he always gave credit where credit was due, as he did tonight. Texas might have won the championship, but don't frown Moe, this will in no way ruin the legacy of what is the "Carroll-Leinart-Bush" era at USC. They won 2 national championships in the last 3 years, they won 34 games in a row! What a team.

The Horns fans sing together THE EYES OF TEXAS ARE UPON YOU! Your eyes should also be on Texas, don't look now, but they have now won 20 games in a row. If the "no doubt in my mind" MVP Vince Young comes back for his senior season, they could be hoisting that crystal trophy again next season.

Who said the BCS doesn't work? Other than anytime BC wins or ND loses (or even better when BC beats ND), this is the best college football game I have ever seen. This was Hagler-Leonard, this was Ali-Frazier, this was THE Grandaddy of Them All. Hope you didn't miss it.

NO WONDER WHY THEY LOST!

Jamming with Mr. Butch part 8

2006-01-04T19:00:00.000-05:00

Mr. Butch came out of hibernation to give all of us this little ditty. " Sometimes I'm gonna give it, and you know if I have it, you are gonna get it." Well said, oh sultan of swigging. Hopefully there will be more Mr. Butch sightings as the winter progresses.

The Trouble with Ninjas

2006-01-04T09:28:00.000-05:00

So, I'm on my way to work this morning. Oh man, who am I kidding, I don't have a job! I just thought I'd try to start this story off with something that sounded productive. Anyways, I'm on my way to the refrigerator this morning to get some OJ - fight the hangover, you know? - when I notice a rustling wind whimsically trail through the trees outside. Now, most people would say "oh, that zany weather!" but I know the harsh truth. That's right, folks: Ninjas.

As far back as I can remember, Ninjas have been chasing me down. Some say it's because I'm a real jerk, and I'm violent and hostile - especially with hostages. But those people know jack squat and should quit their belly-aching and get a life. I don't have time to pay attention to "other people's needs" while I'm trying to escape with cash during a stalemate with local authorities. So sue me.

I'll tell you why those Ninjas are really after me. Ready? Solid gold brain fluid. That's right, it's a genetic anomoly that makes me a cut above the rest. Now, I know what you're thinking: "But Dante, that doesn't make any sense! First of all, that's an impossible condition because gold isn't even an organic substance, let alone the result of genetic evolution - or even mutation. Also if it's solid gold, then it isn't brain fluid. Lastly, you're not only not a cut above the rest, but you are quite literally one of the dullest dullards ever to dull along dully." Well, whoever thinks that is a jerk. Trust me, I know. The solid gold brain juices know all.

So why are the Ninjas after my precious and lustrous cerebrospinal goodness? I'll tell you why. The Stock Market. That's right. Long has President Bush been in cahoots with Scientology to master this complex and seemingly-random financial juggernaut. They have approached me numerous times with offers of insane wealth and power to lend them some guidance - which I can obviously provide. However, I have declined them out of principal. First off, Scientology is an evil plot to take over the world, headed by none other than the villainous Grimace, who you may remember as the Purple Mountain of Terror from McDonald’s ads. Nextly, the miracle broth contained within my skull is registered as a Not-for-profit with the government. And I don't want Uncle Sam breathing down my neck.

And now I deal with the Ninjas. Day in and day out. They fear me as much as they respect me. I can tell that much, because for all the tell-tale signs that Ninjas are present - hearing stuff sometimes, shadows in places behind other things, and thinking that I had more milk than I actually find when I'm eating breakfast - I have yet to be bested by one of those wiry bastards.

So, I stay safe for another day. I hope. Perhaps it's only minutes before they pounce. But I'll persevere. I must. The world will not be safe for long if others wheeze the brain juice. Dante out.

Oooh Baby Baby!

2006-01-03T14:48:00.000-05:00

This is it! The video which The Bricks dad swears is a simulation of the goings-on in the office with The Brick and officemates.
Oooh Baby Baby!
Clicky Clicky ....
THE DANCE VIDEO!

We're Going Streaking!

2006-01-03T11:17:00.000-05:00

Boston College's 27-21 win in Boise extended the nation's longest bowl winning streak. The Eagles have now won 6 bowls game in a row. The last 2 years, they have beaten Boise State in Boise, and North Carolina in Charlotte. Before that, they have beaten Georgia, Arizona State, Colorado State, and Toledo. Not exactly the top 10, but respectable nonetheless.

On the other end of the spectrum, after last night's humiliating loss in the Fiesta Bowl. The Fake Irish have extended the nation's longest bowl losing streak. They have now lost 8 straight bowl games. The last time they won a bowl game was New Years Day of 1994. That's right, over 12 years ago! You might ask how a team can continue to lose every bowl game they go to. Well its easy to figure out, the Fake Irish are continually overrated each and every season. Therefore they end up going to a bowl game that they do not deserve to be at (i.e. 2006 Fiesta). And they end up doing things like giving up a record 617 yards to Ohio State, or getting blown out 41-9 in 2001 by Oregon State. Do not adjust your screen, that is correct, I said Oregon State, what a powerhouse program. Not only did they lose to the Beavers in 2001 by 32 points, they lost to them again in late 2004 by 17. And if that's not bad enough, they lost to the ACC's NC State 28-6 in the 2003 Gator Bowl. Oh, and you might be asking, well who did they lose to in 2002. The answer is everybody, so they didn't even go to a bowl game.

Just as the BC hockey program has leaped head and shoulders above that of BU, the Eagles football team has done the same to the Fake Irish. The Fake Irish are getting so sick of BC beating them that they do not even want to play us anymore. The Eagles have yet another winning streak to speak of, victorious in the last 4 meetings with the Fake Irish.

So BC has beaten the Fake Irish 4 straight times.
BC has won 6 straight bowl games.
The Fake Irish have lost 8 straight bowl games.
And just in case you still have any questions, check this out ...

2006-01-02T15:43:00.000-05:00

Since this is an award winning blog site with numerous readers, then hopefully someone over at Yawkey Way will read it and pass on this information to the head brass. MAKE THE DEAL! The parameters have been set for this megadeal. It has been reported on other reputable websites, not ours ofcourse, that the four teams involved are the Red Sox, Mets, Devil Rays, and Orioles. Basically it comes down to the Red Sox receiving Miguel Tejada and Joey Gaithright. The Mets getting Manny Ramirez and Danys Baez. The Orioles getting Kris Benson, Matt Clement, Julio Lugo. And the Devil Rays getting Aaron Heilman,Jao Seo, Kaz Matsui(plus millions to help defray the cost)and some propects to equal out the trade. If you look closely at this deal, the Orioles seem to be coming out on top if they receive those pitchers and shortstop, and they don't have a huge contract to pay anymore. The Mets get Manny and Baez which should give them the World Series title. The D-Rays get rid of their high priced erractic reliever and open the door for BJ Upton and Delmon Young to start. Ah, that leaves the Red Sox. They get the best shortstop in bestball to be their co-leader with Big Papi. The get their cleanup hitter who doesn't take days off. They get an emotional mouth to satisfy the jackals in the press. They get a SPEEDY leadoff hitter who someday could become a clone of Juan Pierre. Remember that Gaithright has less than 100 MLB games under his spikes. The idea is to get younger and cost effective to be players in the next great wave of free agents in the next two years. The Sox have to surround Beckett with likes of Papelbon, Lester, and Hanson for the future. By trading Manny, Clement, letting Damon, Mueller,and Millar go, with impending retirements of Schilling, Timlin, Wakefield on the horizon, it is the time to be proactive and secure the Sox future for my son to see.

Fanmail from Morons #1

2006-01-01T23:23:00.000-05:00

From: JAY <**********@hotmail.com>
Mailed-By: hotmail.com
To: thebrickshouse@gmail.com
Date: Dec 31, 2005 1:05 AM
Subject: Question for Dante

Yo Dante,

Love the site. Long time reader, first time e-mailer.

I heard that Ming is a robot from the future who was programmed to fight other robots and then eradicate the human race. I want to know if that is true or just a rumor, but I am scared to ask him myself for fear of swift robo-vengence via destructive metal appendages. What say you about this?

-Jay from Boston

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Well Jay,

I can't really say much about the origins of Ming. Partly because I'm not sure what they are, and mostly because I don't give a flying f*ck. I did forward your question to The Brick, though, and he had this to say:

"That mechanical bastard has got some gentle hands for a savage killing droid."

Also, I attempted to forward the e-mail to Ming, but all I got in return was:

"01100010010011100"

I hope that sheds some light on the subject, Jay. And, for future reference, feel free to jump off of a large parking garage straight into a knife factory instead of wasting my time with your idiotic concerns.

Happy new year,
Dante

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Have your own questions for Dante?
E-mail them to thebrickshouse@gmail.com
With the Subject: Fanmail from Morons

Does A Bear Shit in the Woods?

2006-01-01T22:53:00.000-05:00

Well, apparently it can shit prime numbers. See http://members.surfeu.fi/kklaine/tpnsb/poopbear.html...

You Know What Really Grind My Gears, Part 4

2006-01-01T22:43:00.000-05:00

You know what really grind my gears, those IBM Help Desk commercials with a freaky techie behind a desk with a red telephone. Do you think the average joe who watches a Sunday NFL game on TV really give a shit about Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags? Or about server consolidation? Or enterprise security? Or virtualization? Or e-Business (a.k.a. e-Bullshit)? For crying out loud, the average joe can't even get a home computer to work!

You Know What Really Grind My Gears, Part 3

2006-01-01T22:34:00.000-05:00

You know what really grind my gears, no-impact news stories that are released days or weeks AFTER the event happened. For example, the news of how Bono's humanitarian work almost split U2. WHO CARES, U2 IS STILL TOGETHER! Another example, remember the story of Tiger Woods leaving the 2005 PGA Championship early, despite the fact that he was "mathematically" still in the hunt? The story was released almost a week AFTER the event. HE DIDN'T WIN IT ANYWAY (AND HE WAS RIGHT)!

2006 - Year of The Bricks House

2006-01-01T21:59:00.000-05:00

OK OK, so we've been smothering you with our blogging assaults since late September. In the grand scheme of things, we are in our infancy here at The Bricks House. Our first year saw some highs (the Mr. Butch interviews, College pick-em, play Sox GM) and some lows (Dante's one and only post about flying spaghetti monsters). But the lows could be highs and the highs could be lows, what do I know. Anyways, we here at The Bricks House are planning to be bigger and better in 2006. We are planning on having some plans as to what the hell we are doing on here. Its been somewhat of a mess so far, but it has been fun. Ming might have beat me to the punch with the first post of 2006, but I have an exclusive photo from last night's TheBricksHouse New Years Eve party. Without further adieu ...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

On Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Mike Tice's Firing

2006-01-01T20:32:00.000-05:00

Mike Tice was a good guy...

FOR ME TO POOP ON!

Oh, and Happy New Year!

In The Year 2006 ....

2005-12-29T14:21:00.000-05:00

Let's take a look into the future and take some stabs at what might happen in the upcoming year of 2006. Leave all predictions, forecasts, or knowledge of future happenings in the comments ...

My first prediction, Dubbyah is found with coke, again!

Remembering 2005

2005-12-27T11:22:00.000-05:00

A look back at those who have passed away in the year of 2005. This is by no means a wholesome list, please feel free to add those you would like to remember in the comments.

First, all of the victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Jan 23rd Johnny Carson, 79
Mar 29th, Johnnie Cochran, 67
Apr 2nd, Pope John Paul II, 84
Jun 1st, George Mikan, 80
Jul 1st, Luther Vandross, 54
Aug 7th, Peter Jennings, 67
Sep 3rd, William Rehnquist, 89
Oct 24th, Rosa Parks, 92
Oct 25th, Wellington Mara, 89
Nov 24th, Pat Morita, 73
Dec 10th, Richard Pryor, 65

Please take a moment to remember all of those who have left us in 2005. May they rest in peace.
Tomorrow, we will look ahead to 2006.

CF Issue - Lucchino-Millen

2005-12-22T15:34:00.000-05:00

A look at how Damons possible replacements stack up off last years stats:
... ............. AB R HR RBI SB AVG OBP AGE
Damon,J 624 117 10 75 18 316 ...366...........32
Reed (sea)488 61 03 45 12 254 ..322 ......... 25
Crisp (cle)594 86 16 69 15 300 ...345 ......... 26

Bill James Projections:
..............AB R HR RBI SB AVG OBP
Damon 633 112 13 73 19 292 361
Reed ....449 66 5 50 14 294 363
Crisp.... 557 86 13 64 18 296 348
I have to say that the numbers show Crisp can put up the offensive numbers that Damon did.
Crisp would score more runs if placed near the top of the Red Sox order. Problem is he is not really a CF. More suited to the corner OF spots. Reed is a natural CF can get On Base and run he would be a good fit if they can get a 1B orSS with good offensive numbers to compensate.
If they use the money to get a real SS and 1B and Closer than they can survive

The bigger problem is Luchino. He didn't even inform Henry or Werner that Damon was about to sign with the Yankees. The Globe told them. Luchino must go - he is kind of the Red Sox answer to the Lions Matt Millen. Millen is an arrogant SOB who had led the Lions to a NFL worst 20-58 record as GM (He took over after a 9-7 season) Lucchino was 74-88 and 76-86 in San Diego with Padres. They are both losers and must go.
If losing Damon means Lucchino is one step closer to the door I can live with that

Trading Places?

2005-12-22T10:44:00.000-05:00

(AP) - "AS BAD AS CAN!"

MERRY CHRISTMAS from THE BRICKS HOUSE!!

Who's Taller? Manager Moe or Beetle?

2005-12-21T16:31:00.000-05:00

DANTE SPEAKS, DANTE SPEAKS!

2005-12-21T14:05:00.000-05:00

No joke, he made a response in the Johnny F-'in Damon thread!

Damon gone

2005-12-21T09:23:00.000-05:00

So Johnny Damon took the money and darted to the Yankees. So what. He is like all ballplayers when the big money is dangled in front of them they grab it and don't look back. Well, I don't look back either. Damon had 3 good productive years in Boston, but let's not get to excited about him going to the Yankees. These things go in cycles and the Red Sox will come up another player to replace him. The sox should now turn their attention to the Mariners and pry Jeremy Reed from them for Arroyo or Clement. If the sox get Reed, it could be another Neely trade. This guy was the top prospect to the White Sox and it cost him to get Freddy Garcia. So Reed didn't have a good rookie year. You can't have a Fred Lynn year every rookie year. Reed's rookie year was more like Damon's rookie year in KC. This guy has talent, he has speed, he has a better arm in centerfield than Damon. Let's do what Theo wanted to do in the beginning which was get younger, cheaper, and stay competetive with the Division. Like I said before, these teams go in cycles and the next window of opportunity could be opening in another year with the young players they have groomed and acquired this year. Beckett, Marte,(Reed), Paplebon, Youkalis, Delcarmen, Hanson, Pedroia, Murphy, and Ellsbury all could be with the Sox in the next few years pushing hard for a championship while the Yankees are stuck with bad contracts and no prospects. Don't forget that the Sox get the Yankees,and Dodgers first round pick in the 2006 draft. That's three more first rounders to add to their already good farm system. So good bye Johnny and his Anna Benson wannabe wife, we will be booing y'all come April.

EDIT: This portion has been added by Brian
No Theo, no center fielder, no shortstop, no first baseman, no problem says Larry Lucchino! I will say it here first, this is "The Curse of Lucchino"

The George Takei Soundboard

2005-12-20T13:29:00.000-05:00

Clips and sounds heard from the Howard Stern Show.

See http://web.newsguy.com/anttrax/soundboard.html

The "Balloon Knot" sound clip is not available but "Young Wet B****es" is!

The Bricks Top 25

2005-12-19T19:20:00.000-05:00

Loyal readers, here are the most recent rankings you all have been waiting for. These rankings are for games through Dec 18th. Every Monday I will be revealing my top 25, along with upcoming games to watch, and of course much analysis of the Boston College Eagles. Sorry it has been 2 weeks since the last rankings, although I did make my top 25 last week, I did not have a chance to post them as I had finals all week.

Top 25
1) Duke (10-0) Prev: 1
2) UConn (8-0) Prev: 2
3) Villanova (7-0) Prev: 3
4) Memphis (8-1) Prev: 4
5) Illinois (11-0) Prev: 7
6) Gonzaga (7-2) Prev: 8
7) Oklahoma (6-1) Prev: 6
8) Florida (10-0) Prev: 9
9) Washington (9-0) Prev: 10
10) Michigan St (9-2) Prev: 11
11) UCLA (8-1) Prev: 13
12) Texas (8-2) Prev: 5
13) Maryland (7-2) Prev: 14
14) Boston Coll. (7-2) Prev: 16
15) North Carolina (6-1) Prev: 18
16) George Wash. (8-0) Prev: 19
17) Nevada (7-1) Prev: 20
18) Ohio State (7-0) Prev: 22
19) Louisville (6-1) Prev: 12
20) Kentucky (7-3) Prev: 17
21) Indiana (5-2) Prev: 17
22) Wake Forest (8-2) Prev: 15
23) Pittsburgh (8-0) Prev: 24
24) Michigan (7-1) Prev: 21
25) Iowa (8-3) Prev: 25

dropped out: none
also receiving consideration: Air Force, Bucknell, Clemson, Indiana St, LSU, NC State, Northern Iowa, Tennessee, Wichita State, Wisconsin

Up and Downs

#12 Texas is free-falling down 7 spots after getting blown out by Tennessee ... The Question is: Is Tennessee that good or is Texas that bad? We shall see

News and Notes

Sean Williams was in Brighton District Court this morning and he was cleared by the judge to return to campus. BC must now reinstate him into school and he would be all set to play, possibly as soon as Thursday night vs Harvard. This is the boost the Eagles need to be a legitimate top 10 team.

Kudos to the kenpom.com blog for these stats.
Biggest Ballhog: Jose Juan Barea shoots 37.8% of Northeastern’s shots while he is on the court.
Best Shotblocker: Northeastern’s Shawn James blocks 21.3% of opponents’ two-point shots

Remember This Name

Paul Millsap - Junior from Louisiana Tech
He's averaging 20.4 points per game to go along with 12.4 rebounds per game, also with 1.9 steals and 1.6 blocks per game. He's 6'8 243lbs and a likely candidate to leave early and be a lottery pick in the 2006 NBA draft.

Games of the Week

Wed Dec 21 - St. Joesph's at Bucknell

Thurs Dec 22 - West Virginia at #7 Oklahoma

Thurs Dec 22 - Tennessee at Oklahoma State

Fri Dec 23 - Iona at #20 Kentucky

Please let me hear your feedback in the comments ...
See You Next Week!

Thank You Howard

2005-12-16T22:21:00.000-05:00

The festivities from earlier today are now history, and Howard Stern is no longer on terrestrial radio. I want to thank Howard for bringing laughter millions and millions of listeners every morning, especially the working folks including myself, for over two decades. Howard is a pioneer in entertainment, and he will continue to be. Satellite radio is not a matter of "if" it will be a successful, but "when" --and I'm sure that Howard will propel satellite radio just like he did to terrestrial radio. Call me crazy, but this is one incident where I feel that the $500M over 5 years that Sirius will be paying Howard is appropriate. Howard have generated billions of dollars for his former employers in the past (and often unappreciated), and if he can do the same for Sirius, the $500M over 5 years is a small price to pay. And quite frankly, the guy deserves it.

So why do I love the Howard Stern show? It is honest radio to a high degree. No BS; get to the point. Moreover, Howard does something that extremely few celebrities do these days: he appeals to, and is loyal to all classes of people --the poor, the rich, and especially the middle class. He had a very strict and middle class upbringing. He is a middle-class man at heart. He remembers his roots.

Thank you for countless memories:

* Interviews with Donald Trump
* Baba Booey's infamous recording to his (now) wife
* The Vegas Drinking Shows
* Yucko the Clown
* "Who's High Pitch?" / "This is Kelly Clarkson"
* The OJ prank call
* The Princess Diana prank call
* The Robospanker
* Beetlejuice puking
* Interviews with Stone Cold Steve Austin
* The recent interview with Stevie Wonder
* Rodney Dangerfield's last appearance
* Anal Ring Toss
* Saving the man from jumping off the George Washington Bridge
* Mary Ann from Brooklyn
* Bobo
* Double A
* Victoria Zdrok
* The KING of all Blacks
* Angry Black
* The World's Meanest Listener Contest
* The Stuck on You Contest
* The Reverand Bob Levy
* Pam Anderson and Tommy Lee
* The Sulu Dance
* The crank call to George Takei from "Ricardo Montalban"
* William Shatner and "Has Been"
* KC's gay
* Miss Howard Stern's "Thank You"
* Crazy Alice
* Cabbie in jail
* "N----- What"
* Alanis Morissette's performances
* Robert Goulet entering Howard's song contest
* "Young Wet B------"
* FIIIIIIIYAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!
* Elephant Boy
* Wendy the Retard
* The SS Mund (Escalade) incident
* Ben and Ray Stern
* Heidi Cortez

So many things to list.

My best wishes to Howard and his staff at Sirius.

F- the FCC
F- the religious right
F- Jay Leno
F- Imus
and of course, F- Jackie

A Look Back At (Arguably) the Greatest Prank Call In History: "I See OJ"

2005-12-12T22:40:00.000-05:00

This is Howard Stern's last week on terrestrial radio where starting in January, he and his crew will go to greener pastures. His show has brought laughter to millions and millions of people in the morning, especially the working folks: poor, middle-class, and even the upper-class. There are countless number of memorable moments: from the naked women to the whack-pack (and yes, that includes one High Pitch Eric). Earlier today at work, my coworker and I were talking about Howard's last week on terrestrial radio and some fond memories, and interestingly enough, we both talked about that one famous prank call which slipped through all the cracks during one of the most infamous events of our lifetime: the OJ chase in 1994. My coworker will never forget that June day where he was glued to the ABC Special Report coverage, where suddenly, one "Robert Higgins" called Peter Jennings:

Jennings: We have on the phone with us as well Robert Higgins, who lives in the neighborhood and is on the ground and can see inside the van. Mr. Higgins.

Caller: Ah, yeass, ah, how are you?

Jennings: Ah, just about as tense as you are, sir.

Caller: Oh, my Lord, this is quite tenses.

Jennings: What can you see?

Caller: Ah, what I'm lookin' at ri' now is I'm lookin' at the van, and I see OJ kinna' slouchin' down lookin' very very upset. Now lookee here, he look very upset. I don' know what gon' be doin'.

Jennings: Can you... can you... can you see him doing anything specific? Is he merely sitting there?

Caller: He is just a-sittin' 'round, you know, just a-lookin' like he be very nervous

Jennings: Can you hear anything, Mr. Higgins?

Caller: It's just too much commotion, I here in the back of a news van, so I can' really hear that goo' but I can see it all. An' I see OJ. I see OJ, man, and he looks scared. An' I would be scared 'cause there's cops all deep in this.

Jennings: Thank you, Mr. Higgins.

Caller: An' Bobba Bouey to y'all!

Jennings: The driveway of O. J. Simpson's home in Brentwood... Clearly an effort being made to have him come out of the vehicle... In the doorway of the house: his friend, Al Cowlings...

Michaels: Peter, by the way, just for the record, this is Al Michaels. That was a totally farsical call.

Caller: Ah!

Jennings: Ahm.

Michaels: Lest anybody think that that was somebody who was truly across the street that was not. He said something in code at the end that's indicitave of the mentioning of the name of a certain radio talk show host.

caller: Ah!

Jennings: OK, thanks.

Michaels: He was not there.

Jennings: OK, we have them on every coast. Thank you very much.

For over a decade, that crank call has been replayed over and over again, and it never gets old.

For years after that call, the Howard Stern Show have been "involved" in numerous other live crank calls during natural disasters and historic events. Today, Morrie, who called in as "Robert Higgins," is a living legend, and operates his website http://www.iseeoj.com. The MP3 of the infamous call can be downloaded at http://mcraeclan.com/Graeme/ISeeOJ.mp3

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

2005-12-12T13:50:00.000-05:00

The Good

** BC's domination of UMass this weekend. They ended the pre-holiday portion of their schedule with a record of 9-4-1 (8-2-1 Hockey East). As of last Monday, they were ranked #6 in the country. I don't see that ranking going down after sweeping UMass by a combined score of 11-1.

** All of this has been done with 8 freshman and 5 sophomores dressed for every game. Jerry York has proven again why he is the best coach in Hockey East and most likely anywhere in college hockey. He is 265-148-39 in his 11+ seasons at Boston College. In the last 8 years, he has led the Eagles to 7 NCAA tournaments, 5 Frozen Fours, 3 Championship games, and of course the 2001 National Championship. Even with all those accomplishments, taking this years team to a Frozen Four could be his greatest accomplishment yet.

** Only 2 Hockey East players were named to the US National Junior team, those being BC's own Cory Schneider and Nathan Gerbe. Good luck boys, we'll miss you while playing in the Denver Cup. I wonder who is going to play goalie while Cory's gone?

The Bad

** BC's 2-point loss to Maryland last night before a crowd of 17,950 at the Comcast Center in their ACC opener. Losing to Gary Williams isn't such a bad thing. Williams was head coach at BC from 1982 to 1986, and his assistant, Michael Adams, was a star point guard and team captain for Williams' first three seasons. Williams was classy in victory, though the same can't be said of the Maryland fans.

The Ugly

** Just as Louis Hinnant threw a wayward pass into the BC backcourt with 2.2 seconds remaining, striping the Eagles of a last second shot opportunity to tie or even win the game with a three, part of the crowd jumped the black metal gates and stormed past police and security onto the court. This was not shown on TV, as the broadcast could not get Celebirty Poker Stars episode #5634 on fast enough. Thanks to the Baltimore Sun's Heather Dinich for that info.

** On one occasion I heard clearly the Maryland students chanting F* you Dudley. Classy! On the other hand, Al Skinner post-game was as classy as he always is. When speaking about the Eagles ugly free throw shooting, he had a chance, but did not call out his team. "We missed some tonight and so did they. But they made 19 and we only took 15. You're not going to win any games like that." Al realizes that now is not the time to call out his team. You need to peak as a team in March, the rest of the season is putting yourself in a position to be successful then.

So The Red Sox are "restructuring" this afternoon. Just wake me up when I never have to hear Lucchiano speak ever again.

ElcomeWay OTay OiseBay

2005-12-09T12:15:00.000-05:00

That's Pig Latin for "Welcome To Boise". Pig Latin could very well be the native language of Idaho, who knows! The origins of Pig Latin will be discussed at a later date. As for now I am here to discuss the deployment of the Boston College Eagles to some third world bowl, where the grass is blue and the temperatures are like those often found in Siberia during the month of January. The MPC Computer Bowl (Smurf Turf Bowl) was not a desired destination for the Eagles, who went 8-3 (5-3 in the ACC), during their inaugural campaign through the ACC. The Smurf Turf had the sixth selection from ACC teams and they ended up with BC, how exactly did this happen?

Several bowls passed over the Eagles in favor of squads who the Eagles had come up victorious against this season (file photo of some members currently on the Bowls Selection Squad is see to the left). First, the Champs Sports Bowl in Orlando passed up an opportunity to select the Eagles and instead chose Clemson, who the Eagles beat at Death Valley. This seems a little fishy, but then the Meineke Car Care Bowl chose NC State, who BC destroyed 30-10 earlier this year. If that isn't enough, the Music City bowl also passed on the Eagles and instead chose Al Groh and his band of idiots from Virginia, who the Eagles also beat earlier this year. Do you see a common theme? That's right you do, the Eagles getting passed on for teams they have beaten.

The Eagles find themselves in a bowl game for a record seventh consecutive season. But let's look at who they have to face this time around. As you can see on the right, the Eagles are poised to face the Boise State Broncos, that one doesn't really roll off the tongue. Anyways, does anyone see are similarities in the colors of Boise State and those of the MPC Computers Bowl? You should because they are almost the same. This is Boise State's bowl, at Broncos Stadium. So not only do the Eagles get passed on by every other bowl, now they have to play a ROAD bowl game. As whatever that little thing is on the right running with the football clearly states, Boise State has gone 31-0 on their new blue Astro Field Turf.

Tom O'Brien has his work cut out for him if he wants to keep BC's bowl winning streak alive. As it stands now, the Eagles have won 5 bowls game in a row. But even if the Eagles come home from Boise victorious, will the SuperFans truly be happy. I don't really think so, they will be relieved that we beat a team from Boise and that the bowl winning streak is still alive. The question is now, will the Eagles ever make it to a New Years Bowl under Coach O'Brien. All I can say is, I like Coach O'Brien and I hope he sticks around to see the day the Eagles once again play on New Years Day.

You Know What Really Grind My Gears, Part 2

2005-12-07T22:49:00.000-05:00

You know what really grind my gears: Dante. He hasn't posted since October 4, 2005 --that is over two months. And his last post was literally, and figuratively, spaghetti.

Earth to Dante, earth to Dante...

You Know What Really Grind My Gears, Part 1

2005-12-07T14:15:00.000-05:00

You know what really grind my gears: companies that sell their research (papers) for hundreds, and even thousands of dollars. For example, Forrester Research. They sell papers on computer security from $249 to $795. See this research paper: Securing The Network From The Inside Out ($349, Forrester). There are dozen more papers on computer security offered at a substantial price.

My point is, why can't you get similar work and research on the web for $0.00? Many researchers and educations, including myself, post our work online. C'mon folks, it isn't THAT hard to load up a web browser and do a Google search for research and information.

The Bricks Top 25

2005-12-06T21:17:00.000-05:00

Loyal readers, here are the most recent rankings you all have been waiting for. These rankings are for games through Dec 4th. Every Monday I will be revealing my top 25, along with upcoming games to watch, and of course much analysis of the Boston College Eagles. Sorry for the delay on this week's rankings, I had a paper and a presentation due today.

Top 25
1) Duke (7-0) Prev: 1
2) Texas (8-0) Prev: 2
3) UConn (6-0) Prev: 4
4) Villanova (4-0) Prev: 5
5) Oklahoma (4-1) Prev: 3
6) Boston College (6-0) Prev: 7
7) Memphis (6-1) Prev: 8
8) Gonzaga (4-2) Prev: 6
9) Florida (7-0) Prev: 10
10) Michigan State (5-2) Prev: 11
11) Washington (7-0) Prev: 15
12) Illinois (8-0) Prev: 17
13) UCLA (6-1) Prev: 12
14) Maryland (5-2) Prev: 13
15) Louisville (4-0) Prev: 14
16) Wake Forest (7-1) Prev: 19
17) Alabama (4-1) Prev: 20
18) Iowa (7-1) Prev: 21
19) Kentucky (5-2) Prev: 16
20) Indiana (4-1) Prev: 23
21) Nevada (5-0) Prev: 22
22) Oklahoma State (6-2) Prev: 18
23) North Carolina (4-1) Prev: NR
24) George Wash. (5-0) Prev: NR
25) Michigan (5-0) Prev: NR

dropped out: Arizona, LSU, Syracuse
also receiving consideration: Air Force, Bucknell, Colorado State, Houston, NC State, Northern Iowa, Ohio State, Oregon, Pittsburgh, UAB, Vanderbilt, Wichita State, Winthrop, Wisconsin, Xavier

Up and Downs

#11 Washington up 4 spots after beating Gonzaga

#12 Illinois continues to climb up 5 more spots

#23 North Carolina, #24 George Washington, and #25 Michigan all entered the top 25

Arizona dropped like a rock after losing to Houston, they are out of the top 25

News and Notes

Hickery Dickery Dockery - Did anyone else catch Sean Dockery's 40+ foot heave at the buzzer to win the game for the Dukies against Va Tech? This was just one of four three pointers on the night for Dockery. If Duke is going to continue to be #1, they will need someone other than Redick and S.Williams to step up. The 3rd leader scorer right now is Lee Melchionni at 7.6 ppg, that should be enough to scare any Duke fan.

Lorenzo Romar has made his Washington Huskies a team to be reckoned with. They have won something like 28 straight games at home. Watching the Huskies take on Gonzaga this past Sunday really opened my eyes to this team. They are deep and fun to watch. They start two freshman, both who look great. Jon Brockman is a big man averaging 13.3 ppg and Justin Dentmon is the starting point guard. That's right a freshman starting point guard. Not usually a recipe for success, but so far, it is working for Coach Romar. Keep an eye, actually keep both eyes on the Washington Huskies, they are for real!

Hoops Pick 'Em
This will work just like the college football pick 'em. Each week I will list some games of interest and you pick the winners. Most of the games listed will be televised on either ESPN or ESPN2. Last week Crazy Horse got a late start, so he only had 4 picks. So here are the updated standings:
Brian 16-2
Crazy Horse 11-2

Wed Dec 7 - Notre Dame at #17 Alabama

Thurs Dec 8 - Georgetown at #12 Illinois

Sat Dec 10 - Wichita State at #10 Michigan State

Sat Dec 10 - Ohio State at St. Joseph's

Sun Dec 11 - #6 Boston College at #14 Maryland

Good luck!

check out this site

2005-12-06T07:50:00.000-05:00

With the Mets about to trade Kris Benson to the Orioles, It was only a matter of time before his babe wife opened her mouth. You can see her mouth a whole lot more at annabenson.net

U2 Review, Ming's Edition

2005-12-05T15:30:00.000-05:00

Yes, I was at the show last night. One amazing show indeed!

* No "Miracle Drug"
* A very good playing of "Original of the Species" in the first half of the show
* I was very surprised that "Stuck in a Moment And You Can't Get Out Of It" was played in one of the encores
* Bono was in a very good mood. 4 encores!

The biggest eye-opener of the night was the opening act: Gavin Rossdale (yes, the head honcho of "Bush"and the husband of one Gwen Stefani), and one of the songs that his new band played. Two words: "Machine Head"

As far as the experience, well, myself, Rob, and his nephew had GA tickets. We weren't in the ellipse, but we were on the outside edge of it. Just to tell you how close we were to the ellipse: I could spit and hit the ellipse. Bono, The Edge, et. al. came across us numerous times, up close and personal, approximately 10 feet between us and them. The one very disappointing things was that I didn't bring my digital camera, and they were allowed! In actuality, it was probably a good thing we weren't in the ellipse.

U2 Review

2005-12-05T12:28:00.000-05:00

Last nights show was number six in the seven nights they are performing on this year's Vertigo tour. This nights show was nearly flawless as Bono once agained proved his voice has fully recovered from the 2001 tour's vocal troubles. He hit every high and low note perfectly. And the band was on fire, especially the Edge. They spruced up the setlist by adding I Will Follow, Until The End Of The World, Mysterious Ways, Bad, and Fast Cars from past Boston shows this year. Gotta love a band that ends the 2 and half hour show with a song from their B side European release of How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb. Even Bono forgot the words, looking for them on his teleprompter. But the highlight had to be the two women sitting next to me. Of course it wasn't their seats. But who am I to argue when the girl standing next to me was the spitting image of Kristin Davis from Sex and the City. The only difference was she had bigger breasts than Ms. Davis. Her friend Adrienna wasn't too bad either. Then some over anxious meathead weaseled his way into our row and started dancing with the girls. He was trying his hardest to get their numbers and copping a feel. Patricia(Ms. Davis)was a U2 virgin and I made sure she had a great time. After the meathead named Joel grabbed Patricia, I gave him a long stare and he backed down. I ended up telling Joel that the girl he is dancing with is my wife. She went along with it, and thought it was perfect. Everytime he twirled her around in the aisle, I would give him a look and his arms would drop to his side. She just smiled to me and grabbed my arm to hold on to. During Miss Sarajevo, the four of us sat down, and Joel leans over and says that I'm the coolest husband in the world to be letting my wife dance with some unknown. I told him our marrriage was a work in progress. She almost fell over the railing laughing. By the time With Or Without You started, Joel was making his move on Adrienna, and Patricia turned to me and started wiggling her body against mine. She just wanted to play the part of wife, which I had no problem with. I had already admired this 5'1'' 108 pound bombshell during Mysterious ways as she swayed her hips and bosoms to the beat of Adam Clayton's bass. Finally during Stuck In A Moment, I wrapped my arms around her body and she slid in front of me and continued to groove to the music. Joel was looking over at me and he couldn't believe that this little hot babe was my wife. The show ended and lights went on and I held her hand and led her up the stairs like all good husbands lead their wives. She thanked me for running interference for her. She then hugged me and kissed me on the cheek. Her and Adrienna were going out to a bar that Joel had suggested. I told her I did not want to see her picture in the morning paper. She gave me that small smirky smile and I then I waved goodbye to my ex-wife.

who wants to be a GM

2005-12-03T19:49:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, I proposed that I become general manager of the Boston Red Sox. My resume stocked with vast knowledge from years of playing strat-o-matic baseball and a long time member of the PDC fantasy league, I thought I could be the man for the job. But then management goes out and lands Josh Beckett, Guilermo Mota, and Mike Lowell for some unproven minor league talent. A stroke of genius from the five headed of monster of Lucchino, Hoyer, Chernington, Kapstein, and Shipley. Now comes the rumor that they may send Trot Nixon and Matt Clement for Bobby Abreu. As the GM is waiting, Do the deal. Please send those two for a proven power hitting, basestealing, gold glove winning right fielder. Who cares if Francona and Schilling didn't get along with Abreu when they were together in Philly. He was young and immature at the time. Now he is a star and should be our star. Just think of Manny, Ortiz, and then Abreu. I'm drooling already. Let's all do the monster mash if this happens.

Jamming with Mr. Butch part 7

2005-12-01T18:55:00.000-05:00

With all the warm weather this past week, Mr. Butch popped out of his groundhog hole this week to serenade the populist with a story. This takes place at the usual hang out in front of McDonald's at Harvard Ave and Comm Ave. Mr. Butch comes up to me at the mailbox and says," See that big asshole across the street.(Big black guy decked out and three piece suit with bowler hat and cane) A couple of years ago he asks me if I have some weed. Well I produce a small bag with a little bit left in it. Just enough for two joints. The asshole takes the bag and picks out a small amount then dumps the remaining contents into the gutter. I freak out since that's all the weed I had left. He then throws the remaining scraps into the air. That guy is fucked in the head." I know this guy since he walks around Allston thinking he is the mayor, when Mr. Butch is already the man. Butch is right, that guy is an asshole, but this story isn't over. Mr. Butch has more to say. " That guy is really screwed up in the head. He used to play for the Patriots.(No clue who he is, but I'm working on it)During a game, he gets his knee fucked up and the doctors have to shoot him up with some drugs. The drugs go straight to his head and fucks him up. That's why he has that wicked limp and uses the cane, plus his head is still screwed up. Mr. Butch continues with his story. "You see him trying to pick the ckicks over there. He's so fucked up in the head, he has a wife and a girlfriend and he still trys to get the chicks. His wife and girlfriend ganged up on him and sued him in court and took all his money, and he still trys to get the girls. He's fucked up." I get it Mr. Butch, the dude is fucked up. This story was just about over when the paddywagon of Boston's finest pulled up to the red light at the intersection. Mr. Butch looked over and then put his blue fin fish guitar between his legs and reached into his overcoat and pulled out a Budweiser tall beer. After waving the beer to the cops, Mr. Butch said," Those guys don't bother with me, they're cool. They aren't like the asshole cops in Kenmore Square. They would have thrown me in the back of the wagon. I hate Kenmore Cops." As the sun began to shine down on the corner, Mr. Butch glanced over to the large clock on Marty's Liquor store wall. He watched as the little hand ticked to 10:30am. At that point, Mr. Butch turned and dispersed his age old proverb," 10:30, it's time to start drinking." And just like that, he was gone up to street to quench his thirst.

College Football Pick 'Em (Championship Week)

2005-12-01T11:59:00.000-05:00

Welcome to College Football Pick 'Em ... Please feel free and very much obligated to participate. To take part, simply leave your picks for the 5 games in the comments for this post. Winners will receive nothing, but ill-advised picks will be justifiably ridiculed.

Ming is on fire going 4-1 last week. Crazy Horse and myself both went 3-2.
The standings are as follows:
Ming 30-15 .667
Brian 27-18 .600
Crazy Horse 17-13 .567

Navy (6-4) at Army (4-6)
Bricks Take: They are playing for the Commander-In-Chief's trophy. I'd want to win just so I could burn the trophy and melt it down to nothing. Just like G Dubbyah Bush is doing to this country. Army 23, Navy 21

#12 UCLA (9-1) at #1 USC (11-0)
Bricks Take: Rivalry games are usually close. But UCLA is a fraud, they have not played a ranked team all season, until now. Watch out, this could get ugly! USC 51, UCLA 28

Big XII: #2 Texas (11-0) vs Colorado (7-4)
Bricks Take: Texas won the first matchup between these teams 42-17. A win will get the 'Horns in the Rose Bowl. Colorado has lost 2 straight, including 30-3 last week against Nebraska. Why am I putting this game on here? Because it is Championship Week, I should put the Championship games! TEX 38, COL 13

ACC: Florida State (7-4) at #5 Virginia Tech (10-1)
Bricks Take: The 'Noles have lost 3 straight, including last week's drubbing at Florida. The Hokies make it 2 straight ACC championships! VT 24, FSU 10

SEC: #4 LSU (10-1) vs #13 Georgia (9-2)
Bricks Take: This should be a great game. Combined, these teams have lost 3 games by a total of 8 points. I expect this game to be close. So close it will go to OT. UGA 20, LSU 17 (OT)
Good luck!

Oldie, But Goodie

2005-11-30T14:31:00.000-05:00

Ten Reasons Why a Christmas Tree Is Better Than a Woman:

10: A Christmas tree doesn't care how many other Christmas trees you have had in the past.

9: Christmas trees don't get mad if you use exotic electrical devices.

8: A Christmas tree doesn't care if you have an artificial one in the closet.

7: A Christmas tree doesn't get mad if you break one of its balls.

6: You can feel a Christmas tree before you take it home.

5: A Christmas tree doesn't get mad if you look up underneath it.

4: When you are done with a Christmas tree you can throw it on the curb and have it hauled away.

3: A Christmas tree doesn't get jealous around other Christmas trees.

2: A Christmas tree doesn't care if you watch football all day.

1: A Christmas tree doesn't get mad if you tie it up and throw it in the back of your pickup truck.

The Bricks Top 25 (Nov 28)

2005-11-28T15:37:00.000-05:00

Loyal readers, here are the most recent rankings you all have been waiting for. These rankings are for games through November 27th. Every Monday I will be revealing my top 25, along with upcoming games to watch, and of course much analysis of the Boston College Eagles.

Top 25
1) Duke (5-0) Prev: 1
2) Texas (5-0) Prev: 2
3) Oklahoma (3-0) Prev: 3
4) UConn (4-0) Prev: 4
5) Villanova (2-0) Prev: 5
6) Gonzaga (3-1) Prev: 6
7) Boston College (5-0) Prev: 9
8) Memphis (3-1) Prev: 10
9) Arizona (2-2) Prev: 7
10) Florida (5-0) Previous: 12
11) Michigan State (3-2) Prev: 13
12) UCLA (4-1) Prev: 8
13) Maryland (4-1) Prev: 14
14) Louisville (1-0) Prev: 15
15) Washington (6-0) Prev: 19
16) Kentucky (4-1) Prev: 17
17) Illinois (5-0) Prev: 20
18) Oklahoma State (4-1) Prev: 18
19) Wake Forest (5-1) Prev: 22
20) Alabama (2-1) Prev: 24
21) Iowa (4-1) Prev: NR
22) Nevada (3-0) Prev: NR
23) Indiana (3-0) Prev: NR
24) Syracuse (4-2) Prev: 16
25) LSU (3-0) Prev: NR

dropped out: West Virginia, Old Dominion, Georgetown, Kansas
also receiving consideration: Bucknell, George Washington, Michigan, NC State, North Carolina, Northern Iowa, Ohio State, Oregon, Penn, Pittsburgh, UAB, Vanderbilt, Wichita State, Winthrop, Wisconsin

Up and Downs

#7 Boston College, #8 Memphis, #10 Florida, #11 Michigan State all rose two spots

#17 Illinois keeps climbing up the top 25

#21 Iowa, #22 Nevada, #23 Indiana, and #25 LSU all entered the top 25 for the first time

#24 Syracuse dropped eight spots after losing at home to Bucknell

West Virginia dropped three games and out of the top 25

Georgetown, Kansas, and Old Dominion also dropped out of the top 25

News and Notes

Adam Morrison used the Maui Invitational to showcase his skills. During the 3 games, he averaged 28.7 points, 7 rebounds, shot 50.0% from the field, including 53.8% from 3-point land. Even though the 'Zags lost to UConn on a buzzer-beater by Denham Brown, they showed that they belong in the same breath as any of the teams in the top 10. Wouldn't Morrison look nice in one of those spiffy new Celtics jerseys?

Caliperi has done it again. As he did with UMass, he has taken a mediocare Memphis program and made it "big time". The Tigers took Duke to the brink during the final of the NIT. Of the nine players earning playing time for Caliperi, 5 of them are freshmen with 3 sophomores. Look for Memphis to have a few hiccups on the road this year, but watch out when tournmanet time comes around, they could make a deep run.

Hoops Pick 'Em
This will work just like the college football pick 'em. Each week I will list some games of interest and you pick the winners. Most of the games listed will be televised on either ESPN or ESPN2. Last week Crazy Horse got a late start, so he only had 3 picks. So here are the updated standings:
Brian 11-1
Crazy Horse 8-1

This week's matchups include 4 ACC/Big 10 challenge games:

Tues Nov 29 - Wisconsin at #19 Wake Forest

Tues Nov 29 - #17 Illinois at North Carolina

Weds Nov 30 - #1 Duke at #23 Indiana

Weds Nov 30 - North Carolina State at #21 Iowa

Thurs Dec 1 - #22 Nevada at Kansas

Sat Dec 3 - #3 Oklahoma at #5 Villanova

Good luck!

Jamming with Mr. Butch part 6

2005-11-26T19:44:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since the last jam session, but things have been busy around here and Mr. Butch has gone into hiding, kinda like looking for Big Foot in the forest. It's a good time to tell the story of Mr. Butch's Mural on the Central Auto Warehouse in Allston. In 2001, the Allston Village Main Streets Commitee decide to express the diversity of Allston with a huge mural on the side of the warehouse. Among the many businesses that were depicted, they decided that Mr. Butch was such a piece of the fabric of Allston that he needed to be up on the wall too. So they painted his likeness with his suitcase peering out a window. Now everybody can see the king of Allston when he not sleeping in an alleyway or pissing on a wall. Next time you drive or walk over the overpass that leads to the mouth of Harvard Ave just past the Allston Sports Depot sign, look up and see the ambassador of Allston and raise a MGD tall to Mr. Butch.

This is Mr. Butch's hangout at the corner of Harvard Ave and Comm Ave. As you can see, he's in hiding, but not to worry, he will pop up when he's ready to speak again.

Turkey Awards

2005-11-24T19:17:00.000-05:00

Larry Luchino - The King of all Turkeys. May he soon be headed to someone's dinner table.
He is the arrogant boss everyone hates.

Brad Butler- The Virginia Lineman who gave the cheapest of cheap shots on Kiwi during his visit to BC. Al Groh has feathers himself for not benching him right away.

Keith Foulke - The closer who spends more time complaining about fans than he does finishing games with a lead. He doesn't have the stuff to be a closer or a set up man for that matter.
Fellow Turkey Luchino better have Foulke on a bus out of town by April.

Duane Starks- Patriots are undefeated since Starks was placed on IR

Danny Ainge - for signing his buddy Scalabrini instead of signing a certain red head from NH for half the money and double the results.

Kevin Millar - Get the Cowboy act and your One Road HR and .647 OPS back to Japan where you belong.

Scott Norwood- Permanent Turkey - 1700 reasons to hate him

Jacobs Family- Bruins owners who had for years said the Bruins were terrible because they
where putting themselves in position to win after the long awaited lockout. I guess in reality they were terrible because Jacobs cares more about selling $5 Hot Dogs than paying for hockey players.

Saints Owner Tom Benson - Taking advantage of the tragic flood to move his team to LA.
Then pushing a camera man for doing his job.

Kenny Rodgers- See above about abusing media people because you are a rich jerk.

Lou Holtz - He couldn't coach unless losses and boring football was the goal. He can't be an announcer unless talking about how great you are is the goal. He is fellow turkey Tommy Lassorda's college football equivalent

My final of the dozen Turkey goes to Dick Cheney. Ok so you lied a little about the reasons for invading a country. Maybe a little white lie about WMD. You cover it up by calling critics cowards. You say speaking about the truth is unpatriotic. A few thousand US deaths can be accepted as long as Haliburtons profits reach record levels. You say torture is Ok. As a war criminal you and fellow Turkey Bush should be held in a secret prison camp and treated the same way those people are.

ps. I apologize to all Turkeys for calling Bush and Cheney Turkeys. It's just a figure of speach .I am well aware you are vastly smarter and superior to those two. Don't be offended.

Back in Black!

2005-11-23T16:24:00.000-05:00

So what do you think? This new road jersey is suppose to be a throwback to the road jersey from 1946-48, albeit with a new twist. The name "Boston" was eliminated from the road jersey in the early 70's. It is now back, but in black!

Honestly, I like the jersey except for the black outline. It does seem to be in good taste though. The shorts (not shown) are green with black on the two sides, with a green shamrock on both sides as well.

On Friday night, the new jersey will be unveiled. Though at home versus Charlotte on Friday, this is the only time the Celtics will be wearing this jersey at home. It will be worn only on the road thereafter. Share your thoughts on the new jersey in the comments.

Happy Thanksgiving!

College Football Pick 'Em (Week 13)

2005-11-22T14:51:00.000-05:00

Welcome to College Football Pick 'Em ... Please feel free and very much obligated to participate. To take part, simply leave your picks for the 5 games in the comments for this post. Winners will receive nothing, but ill-advised picks will be justifiably ridiculed.

Both Ming and I went 3-2 last week.
The standings are as follows:
Ming 26-14 .650
Brian 24-16 .600
Crazy Horse 14-11 .560

Thanksgiving Day: Pittsburgh (5-5) at #11 West Virginia (8-1)
Bricks Take: The "Backyard Brawl" will be very one-sided. Dave Wannestedt will not be bowl-eligble, nor should he be. WV 37, PITT 13

Friday: Nebraska (6-4) at Colorado (7-3)
Bricks Take: The Buffaloes need this game to get into the Big 12 Championship Game against Texas. CU 31, NEB 17

#8 Notre Dame (8-2) at Stanford (5-5)
Bricks Take: The Irish are so over-rated it is not even funny. Their opponents' combined record is 52-54, that's a 49.06 winning percentage. They are 1-1 against ranked opponents. BC's opponents combined record is 62-52, a 54.39% winning percentage. And BC is 1-2 versus ranked teams. So the Irish are #6 and BC is #21? With that being said, Stanford's defense is terrible. ND 45, STAN 24

#15 Georgia (8-2) at #21 Georgia Tech (7-3)
Bricks Take: Despite at home, Tech comes back down to earth after crushing the Miami Hurricanes championship hopes. The Dawgs win in overtime! UGA 20, GT 17 (OT)

Saturday: #24 Florida State (7-3) at #23 Florida (7-3)
Bricks Take: After both teams choked two weeks ago, one looks to finish the regular season strong. The 12th man known as the Swamp will make a difference, just not enough. FSU 23, UF 19
Good luck!

The Bricks Top 25 (Nov 21)

2005-11-21T18:59:00.000-05:00

Loyal readers, here are the most recent rankings you all have been waiting for. These rankings are for games through November 20th. Every Monday I will be revealing my top 25, along with upcoming games to watch, and of course much analysis of the Boston College Eagles.

Preseason Top 25

1) Duke (3-0) Prev: 1
2) Texas (2-0) Prev: 2
3) Oklahoma (1-0) Prev: 5
4) UConn (1-0) Prev: 7
5) Villanova (1-0) Prev: 6
6) Gonzaga (1-0) Prev: 3
7) Arizona (0-0) Prev: 8
8) UCLA (3-0) Prev: 9
9) Boston College (2-0) Prev: 10
10) Memphis (2-0) Previous: 19
11) West Virginia (2-0) Prev: 11
12) Florida (4-0) Prev: NR
13) Michigan State (0-1) Prev: 4
14) Maryland (1-0) Prev: 13
15) Louisville (1-0) Prev: 15
16) Syracuse (3-1) Prev: 12
17) Kentucky (2-0) Prev: 17
18) Oklahoma State (2-0) Prev: 16
19) Washington (4-0) Prev: 25
20) Illinois (2-0) Prev: NR
21) Old Dominion (2-0) Prev: 22
22) Wake Forest (3-1) Prev: 18
23) Kansas (1-0) Prev: 20
24) Alabama (2-1) Prev: 23
25) Georgetown (1-0) Prev: 21

dropped out: Stanford, George Washington
also receiving consideration: Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Iowa State, LSU, NC State, New Mexico, Nevada, Northern Iowa, Ohio State, Oregon, South Carolina, Southern Illinois, UNLV, Vanderbilt, Wisconsin

Up and Downs

#12 Florida rose from the unranked to their new position

#20 Illinois also jumped up from the land of the unranked

#10 Memphis up from #19 after winning at #24 Alabama

#13 Michigan State dropped nine spots from #4

#19 Washington entered the top 20 from #25

Stanford and George Washington dropped out of the top 25

News and Notes

Michigan State fresh on a Final Four run, lost their opener by 22 to Hawaii. You might ask, what's wrong with the Spartans? But take note, 4 Spartans starters left the game with cramps (Ager, Paul Davis, S. Brown, and D. Neitzel). Davis missed the last 13 minutes and Brown was carried off on a stretcher with 6:36 left, both due to cramping. This cramping was most likely due to the heat and humidity of Hawaii, as it has happened to opposing teams before.

Even with the likes of Daniel Gibson (Texas), Taj Gray (Oklahoma), and JamesOn Curry (Oklahoma State) ... Curtis Stinson of Iowa State will be the player of the year in the Big 12. After averaging 17.2 ppg last season, he opened his junior year with 35 pts, 5 reb, and 7 assists. Look for the Cyclones to make a lot of noise in the Big 12 this season. Their first big game is versus Northern Iowa on Nov 29 and Iowa on Dec 9.

Hoops Pick 'Em
This will work just like the college football pick 'em. Each week I will list some games of interest and you pick the winners. Most of the games listed will be televised on either ESPN or ESPN2. Here are the standings ...
Brian 6-0
Crazy Horse 6-0
Let's see if I can make this a little more difficult:

Tues Nov 22 - #13 Michigan State vs #6 Gonzaga at Maui

Tues Nov 22 - #7 Arizona vs #4 UConn at Maui

Tues Nov 22 - Iowa vs #2 Texas at Kansas City (Guardians Classic)

Weds Nov 23 - #8 UCLA vs #10 Memphis at Madison Square Garden (NIT)

Fri Nov 25 - Drake vs #9 Boston College at Las Vegas Invitational

Fri Nov 25 - Northeastern vs Cal State Northridge at Cal Berkeley

Good luck!

College Football Pick 'Em (Week 12)

2005-11-18T15:20:00.000-05:00

Brian forgot to post this, and I got permissions from him to start this week's college football pick 'em. You know the rules by now.

Please feel free and very much obligated to participate. To take part, simply leave your picks for the 5 games in the comments for this post. Winners will receive nothing, but ill-advised picks will be justifiably ridiculed.

#23 Boston College at Maryland

Ming's take: BC eeks by Maryland. BC 27, Maryland 24

#8 Alabama at #11 Auburn

Ming's take: No letdown for Auburn after last week's huge win, but again, another squeaker. Auburn 17, Alabama 14

#19 South Carolina at Clemson

Ming's take: Super Steve does it again, and no bedlam at the end of this year's game. SC 38, Clemson 17

#21 Texas Tech at Oklahoma

Ming's take: Texas Tech will add more woes to Oklahoma's already woeful season. TT 35, OU 21

#9 The Ohio State University at Michigan

Ming's take: Michigan needs to win this game for any chance of winning the Big Ten Championship. The "Big House" will be a major influence for the maize and blue. Michigan 24, tOSU 20

Let the Madness Begin

2005-11-18T15:14:00.000-05:00

Tonight marks the first game on the schedule for a couple of notable teams. I will be in attendance as the #10 Boston College Eagles open up their season at Conte Forum against the Big Green of Dartmouth. This one shouldn't be close. Within a few days, I'll compile a first thoughts review of the Eagles.

Another first tonight is my cousin's first game as Northeastern takes on Brown down at Central Connecticut State. I think he's hoping for about 10-15 minutes a game here at the start. Good luck Chris, just make the most of your opportunities, that's all you can do. Here in the Boston area, you can listen to this game on 104.9 FM at 6:00pm.

Other notable games tonight include:

#22 Old Dominion - Georgia

ODU looks to start the season where they left off last year, taking on a SEC opponent is not the easiest way to start a season, even if it is the Georgia Bulldogs.

#18 Wake Forest - Texas Tech

The consolation game of the Coaches vs Cancer, Tech looked horrible last night against Syracuse. Cuse's 2-3 Zone suffocated any offense Tech has. Look for Wake to exploit this weakness again tonight. Justin Gray had 7 turnovers again last night, but Wake will still pull this one out tonight.

UNC-Wilmington at Colorado

UNC-Wilm is already 3-0, they travel to Boulder to take on the Buffaloes. CU will get more than they bargained for, look out for a possible upset.

#7 UConn at Pepperdine

The Waves have an all new look and the Huskies will take advantage tonight.

#12 Syracuse - Florida

The Coaches vs Cancer Championship game will be a good one. Taurean Green looks like the real deal for the Gators. So does Devendorf for the Orange. I'll be DVR-ing this game while I'm at Conte tonight.

Enjoy the games! Go BC & NU!

Thirsty Thursday!

2005-11-17T12:52:00.000-05:00

Loyal readers, I hope some of you are thirsty for some college hoops because tonight there are 4 games on ESPN or ESPN2

The double-header on ESPN is the Coaches vs Cancer Classic at Madison Square Garden
7:00 Florida vs #18 Wake Forest
9:00 #12 Syracuse vs Texas Tech

All of these teams are 2-0, and they are very evenly matched. Expect two quality games. I'm looking forward to seeing Syracuse's "Diaper Dandy" Eric Devendorf. Crazy Horse told me this kid is good, we shall see.

The double-header on THE DEUCE, that's ESPN2 to you knuckleheads who have been living in a cave for the last 10 years. Both of these games are pre-season NIT matchups, with the winners moving on to the Big Apple for the semi-finals on Nov 23.
8:00 Sam Houston State at Drexel
10:00 #19 Memphis at #23 Alabama

Sam Houston makes a surprise appearance in the second round after upsetting the arrogant Quin Snyder and his Mizzou Tigers. The winner of Drexel-Sam Houston earns a semi-final matchup with Duke at Madison Square Garden. Look for both teams to be fired up, as they both want a chance to take on the top ranked Blue Devils. At 10, we have the first top 25 matchup of the season with Darius Washington leading his team against Alabama. Tuesday night, Memphis dismantled what I thought would be a strong UW-Milwaukee team. Watch for Memphis' freshman Shawne Williams, he is just one of 4 freshmen earning a lot of minutes for the Tigers. Bama is lead by big man Chuck Davis and floor leader Ronald Steele.

Overindulge yourself tonight in all this action, you deserve it, it has been a long week!

This Deserves It's Own Post

2005-11-16T10:11:00.000-05:00

The last post was officially Moe's "coming-out party." It is bad enough to talk about some TV reality show which is usually reserved for chick-talk, but that last sentence was the knockout punch.

Reality bites

2005-11-14T20:43:00.000-05:00

I do not watch that many TV reality shows, except for the two that are really the best of the bunch(Amazing Race and Suvivor). I think most of these shows are useless garbage thrown at us to fill the time slots because the idiots that program the networks can't come up with an original thought to save their timeslots. You know all the shows I'm talking about. Big Brother, Who What's To Marry a Millionaire, Trading Spouses, and so on. As Ethan Hawke said in said movie,"Reality Bites" or was it Wynona Ryder, I can't remember, so I digrest. The point here is most to all reality themed shows suck, But, I can't stop watching My Fair Brady on VH1. And for one reason only. Adrianne Curry. She is the chick that won the first America's Next Top Model, and she was part of the Sureal Life on MTV. Two reality shows should have forcast doom for her career. Hey, why not star in another one with Peter Brady himself, Christopher Knight. The premise for this show is Adrianne and Christopher hit it off together while on the Sureal Life and decide to live together while VH1 documents their budding relantionship. She knows she wants to marry him after two days together, he already has been through two divorces and holds reservations about going down the third time. We he give in to her demand for the rock or we she take a hike at the end of the show. Who cares. All I want to see is more Adrianne strutting around the house in her Victoria Secret thong. This girl has a killer body and a dirty mouth that my mother would say needs a good bar of soap. You got to love a girl who belches louder than Bono sings. The constant thought through my mind watching this show every week is what the fuck is wrong with Peter Brady. He's 47, pudgy, losing his hair and he has a 23 year super model who wants to have sex with him all the time. Sign me up for My Fair Brady 2. I'll show him what a girl wants. But, in the end, he comes to his senses, even though Mrs Brady, Florence Henderson, told him she is not good for him. He proposes and the show is over. Damm it! No more naked Adrianne to oogle at every Sunday night. Oh well, there's always Ming on Wednesday night.

Hoops Top 25 (Nov 14)

2005-11-14T14:55:00.000-05:00

Thus far, only a few regular season games have been played. This week everyone starts for real. Is anyone else looking forward to watching #1 Duke totally humiliate BU tonight?
Here is the top 25 for this week, a few changes, but nothing drastic.

Top 25

Duke (0-0)

Texas(0-0)
Gonzaga(0-0)
Michigan State(0-0)
Oklahoma(0-0)
Villanova(0-0)
UConn(0-0)
Arizona(0-0)

UCLA(0-0)
Boston College(0-0)
West Virginia(2-0)
Syracuse(2-0)
Maryland(0-0)
Stanford(0-0)
Louisville(0-0)
Oklahoma State(0-0)
Kentucky(1-0)
Wake Forest(2-0)
Memphis(0-0)
Kansas(0-0)
Georgetown(0-0)
Old Dominion(0-0)
Alabama(0-0)
George Wash.(0-0)
Washington(1-0)

dropped out: Nevada
Also considered: Texas Tech, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Creighton, UW-Milwaukee, LSU, Iowa State, South Carolina, NC State

Up and Downs

#11 West Virginia jumped out 2 spots from #13

#12 Syracuse dropped one spot from #11

#13 Maryland dropped one spot from #12

#25 Washington entered the top 25 after an impressive opening win

Nevada dropped out of the top 25, but probably not for long

News and Notes

You can look as either a good thing or a bad thing. #12 Syracuse escaped their first two games with 2 wins, but Gerry McNamara is a combined 4 for 19 from the field, including 1 for 14 from downtown. Defenses will be out to shut him down, now that he is the #1 option. Does he have the game to carry the load? I don't think so. He will no doubt have to be better if Syracuse expects to win in the Big East.

Justin Gray has taken over Chris Paul's duties of running the point at #18 Wake Forest. He has not done it well throught the first two games. He does have 13 assists in those 2 games, but he also had 12 turnovers, including 10 in a game against George Mason that went to overtime. The Patriot's full-court pressure reeked havoc on the Demon Deacons. This could be Wake's achilles heel, just a warning.

Mon Nov 14 - BU at #1 Duke

Tues Nov 15 - New Mexico State at #9 UCLA

Thur Nov 17 - #18 Wake Forest vs Florida at Madison Square Garden

Thur Nov 17 - #12 Syracuse vs Texas Tech at Madison Square Garden

Fri Nov 18 - Dartmouth at #10 Boston College

Fri Nov 18 - Northeastern vs Brown at Central Conn. State

Good luck!

College Football Pick 'Em (Week 11)

2005-11-10T11:09:00.000-05:00

Welcome to College Football Pick 'Em ... Please feel free and very much obligated to participate. To take part, simply leave your picks for the 5 games in the comments for this post. Winners will receive nothing, but ill-advised picks will be justifiably ridiculed.

I went 2-3 last week, while the others went 4-1, creating a very tight race.
The standings are as follows:
Crazy Horse 13-7 .650
Brian 18-12 .600
Ming 18-12 .600

North Carolina State (4-4) at Boston College (6-3)
Bricks Take: "Matty Ice" Matt Ryan will take over as the Eagles starting QB. NC State is coming off a huge win in Tallahasee. BC is coming off two straight road losses. You know what that means, the Eagles win big! BC 34, NcSt 17

#23 Georgia Tech (6-2) at Virginia (5-3)
Bricks Take: I put this game on here because everyone would pick USC, if I put the USC-Cal game. BC would benefit from a UVA win, to move back up to 4th place billing in the ACC. So you know what that means. GT 24, UVA 13

#13 Florida (7-2) at South Carolina (6-3)
Bricks Take: The first of three huge SEC matchups. This is the game Steve Spurrier has been waiting for. Urban Meyer's squad needed overtime to get by Vanderbilt last week. This is Meyer's chance to prove his worth, by beating the ol' Gators coach on the road. SC 28, UF 27

#20 Auburn (7-2) at #9 Georgia (7-1)
Bricks Take: The second of the three huge SEC matchups. DJ Shockley should be back for the Dawgs, but watch out for the Tigers as they are on a roll. UGA 17, AUB 16

#7 LSU (7-1) at #3 Alabama (9-0)
Bricks Take: Alabama will have the home field advantage, but so did VaTech last weekend. Alabama is a distant 3rd in the BCS standings, so was VaTech last weekend. 'Bama is taking on a top 10 team for the first time this season, so was VaTech last weekend. If LSU hadn't blown a huge lead to Tennessee on a monday night in September, and then lost in OT. This would be #3 versus #4. 'Bama's offense is the same as the weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, non-existant! Look for LSU to put just enough points on the board to win this one. LSU 13, BAMA 9

Good luck!

TagBoard UPDATE

2005-11-10T11:01:00.000-05:00

Loyal readers, I am sad to announance that the TagBoard has been removed at least temporarily. This is due to the ill-effects it had on the page. TagBoard was causing the page to have a lot of pop-ups, some even getting by the "pop-up blocker". In Microsoft Explorer, it was also causing a search for some file on the Microsoft Office CD. This was getting to be very annoying.

Did anyone else experience these problems? Please let me know in the comments if you did. They have seemed to go away once I removed the TagBoard. Is anyone still experiencing these problems? Ming, any ideas on where we could either get a different type of Tag-like Board, or possibly even create one?
As always here at The Bricks House, we are striving to improve the page.
Thank you for understanding.

Hey Sox, Sign Me as GM

2005-11-07T15:36:00.000-05:00

After reading Moe's well thought out strategy, I decided to come up with my own plan for the Sox in 2006. I have put much thought into this, searching free agent lists, and coming up with solutions that would fit with the payroll of $121 million. So here it is, my 2006 Sox.

My major free agent signing would be BJ Ryan. This guy is just reaching 30 years of age, he is in his prime. I would offer him a deal of 3 years and 21 million, with a 8.5M team option for the 4th year. You can not count on Keith Foulke for anything, so first you must sure up the back of the bullpen. That was the Sox "flaw" in 2005. I would then sure up the rest of the bullpen by resigning Mike Myers at 1 year and 750K. I would also sign 2 free agents from the Nationals bullpen. Joey Eischen and Hector Carrasco both at 2 years and 2.5 million(so 1.25 million per season). This would provide depth to the bullpen, giving Franconca multiple good arms to go to during the 5th, 6th, and 7th innings.

The next big decision is what to do about Johnny Damon, my feeling is that he is going to ask for 5 years, but he'll be willing to come down to 4 years, but only for Varitek-like money(4 years and 36 million). I would give him 4 years and 36.

Third base is also an issue with Bill Mueller being a free agent. His all around play is worth another 2 year deal, this time at 5 million(2.5 per). I would also resign John Olerud at 1 year and 1.5M. This would solidify the corners, but also give Youkilis a chance to play. I see him playing 1st base half the time and filling in at 3rd base as well. As far as extra outfielders, I would sign Marquis Grissom to 1-year and 3M. He's a nice veteran presence, a very good fielder and a decent bat off the bench. I would also resign Kapler to 1 year and 750K to round off the bench.

David Wells wants a trade to San Diego, so I would send him there for Eric Young and minor league pitcher Jason Kershner. Young could play some 2nd base and also is a pinch running threat off the bench. After all of these moves, I see the lineup looking like this:
1) J.Damon CF
2) Renteria SS
3) Ortiz DH
4) Ramirez LF
5) Varitek C
6) Nixon RF
7) Youkilis 1B
8) B.Mueller 3B
9) A.Cora 2B
bench: Olerud, Grissom, E.Young, Kapler, Mirabelli

Starters: Schilling, Wakefield, Clement, Arroyo, Papelbon
Bullpen: Ryan, Timlin, Foulke, Eischen, Carrasco, Myers

Starting the year in AAA, but should be up for good sometime during the season:
C.Hansen, Delcarmen, Pedroia

Could possibly make some appearances with Boston:
H.Ramirez, Shoppach, A.Stern, DiNardo, C.Meredith, A.Alvarez, J.Lester

Hopefully this should spark some debate over where to go with some of these decisions. Thanks for getting the ball rolling Moe. Hope you enjoyed it, critique me all you can!

My Sox

2005-11-06T20:09:00.000-05:00

The MLB general managers meetings are taking place this week and since the Red Sox don't have a GM right now, I am presenting my case to take the job. Let's start with some housecleaning. Gone= Kevin Millar, Tony Graffanino, Bill Mueller, John Olerud, Jeremi Gonzalez, Wade Miller and Chad Harville. Sign= Johnny Damon to a three deal worth 9 million with a team option for the fourth year. Still one of the best leadoff hitters in the game. Offer Mueller a one year deal with options. If he signs, good, then put Kevin Youkalis at firstbase or entertain some offers for him. If he refuses, just let Youkalis play third. Sign a third starter to be behind Schilling and Clement. About the only canidates for that is Jeff Weaver and Jarod Washburn. Offer Wade Miller an incentive laden contract, and he signs it. Now the fun starts. Let's see the roster as it is now: Varitek, Mirabelli, Pedroia, Cora, Renteria,Mueller, Youkalis, Ramirez, Damon, Nixon, Kapler, Ortiz, Schilling, Clement, Wakefield, Papelbon,Miller, Leister, Delcarmen, Timlin, Hansen, and Foulke. First call is to the Reds for Adam Dunn. Offer them Abe Alvarez, Charlie Zink, and Youkalis. Dunn plays first and bats fifth. The Mets come calling for Ramirez, you hold out for Aaron Heilman, Tyler Yates, and Lastings Milledge. I don't think this will happen since I'm the GM and really like having Ramirez to bat in between Ortiz and Dunn. but those are names to remember when Manny asks for his semi-annual trade. You see that the Pirates have players that are very close to making big bucks, that is where you pounce next. You offer the Bucs Kelly Shoppach, Annibal Sanchez and a low minor leaguer to pry Kip Wells and Mike Gonazalez off them. They want you to take Craig Wilson, who would look good in rightfield, but nobody is going to take Trot Nixon and his buttnot off your hands. You tell Pittsburgh, if the right deal comes through f0r Nixon we will be talking about Wilson again. David Wells goes to the San Diego Padres for Akinori Otduka and Brad Baker, though you really want Tim Stauffer, after reading about him in the great book about the Cape Cod League called The Last Best League. The trade also reunites Baker back to the organization after dealing him away for basically nothing the first time. Now the final trade of the meetings comes as skock as the Red Sox deal one of the most popular players to the pitching starved Devil Rays. Yeah it's OK to deal within the same division. You send Bronson Arroyo to the D-Rays for a rehabbing Rocco Baldelli. It makes sense. Arroyo is a solid pitching making cheap coin and Baldelli is damaged goods. Baldelli is dropped down on the depth chart behind Crawford, Gomes, Young, Gaithright, and Huff. You make the trade now and sit on Baldelli because Nixon will either get injured or look good to some team because he is signed for two more years at 6 and half million. Baldelli is also insurance incase Damon bolts for the big bucks. Ok some let's see the lineup as it now stands. C-Varitek, 1B-Dunn, 2B-Pedroia, SS-Renteria, 3B-Mueller, LF-Ramirez, CF-Damon, RF-Nixon, DH-Ortiz, SP-Schilling, Clement, K.Wells, Papelbon, Wakefield, Delcarmen, Gonzalez, Timlin, Hansen, Foulke, Bench-Mirabelli, Cora, Kapler, Baldelli, Stern, Petagine. That's how my offseason would look like.

The Bricks Preseason Top 25

2005-11-05T19:15:00.000-05:00

Loyal readers, here are the preseason rankings you all have been waiting for. College hoops are almost upon us and I am anticipating the season as much as anybody. Every Monday I will be revealing my top 25, along with upcoming games to watch, and of course much analysis of the Boston College Eagles.

Preseason Top 25

1) Duke
2) Texas
3) Gonzaga
4) Michigan State
5) Oklahoma
6) Villanova
7) UConn
8) Arizona
9) UCLA
10) Boston College
11) Syracuse
12) Maryland
13) West Virginia
14) Stanford
15) Louisville
16) Oklahoma State
17) Kentucky
18) Wake Forest
19) Memphis
20) Kansas
21) Georgetown
22) Old Dominion
23) Alabama
24) George Washington
25) Nevada

also receiving consideration: NC State, South Carolina, Iowa State, UTEP, LSU, UW-Milwaukee, Washington, Mississippi State, Illinois, Pittsburgh, Iowa, Creighton

Mindless Blogging

2005-11-04T18:50:00.000-05:00

My mind started rambling on this morning as I careened around Route 93 south on my way to work. This is mindless blogging. Drivers Suck! Especially morning drivers. This idiot in the left lane all of a sudden puts his right blinker on and starts a bee line for the next lane even though the lane is bumper to bumper. What was this guy thinking? He's lucky I was behind the other car, because I would have swerve right back at him. OK on to other things blogging my mind as I drive. Enough with the Theo talk. Get the point that we all want to know, who is the mole in the organ-I-zation. My bet it is Dr. Charles Steinberg. Larry Luchinno's right hand stooge. Steinberg never misses a media opportunity, but was absent from Theo's press conference. Kill Larry all you want, but as the godfather of talk radio once said, I Believe, I believe its Steinberg and Henry has to calm the nation and can this stooges big fat ass out onto Yawkey way. Next, how in the world does Jeter win a gold glove and Orlando Cabrera doesn't. Cabrera had 6 friggin' errors all year. Jeter had double digits and according to Baseball Prospectus, he is the most overrated shortstop of the modern era. Ok it's a New York kind of thing, but then how does A-Fraud not win a gold glove and Eric Chavez does. A-Fraud had a great year and Chavez was less than his spectacular self. It blogs my mind. Now speaking of the word spectacular, I'm ready to rip the foam covers off my headphones if I hear Dale "The Bruins are going to win the stanley cup" Arnold use the word spectacular. He uses it at least ten times a day, and the other phrase he uses is I promise you. Enough already. I'm sending him a thesauras for christmas. Speaking of the Bruins. It's time to get rid of the big muckers and grinders and go with the little speedy wingers like Paul Kariaya, who they should have signed. The days of big wingers are gone. It's time to hail the White Stripes as the best band in the land. They do so much with so little is incredible. Album after album starting with White Blood Cells, Elephant, and now Get Behind Me Satan is filled with so many great songs, they should be band of the new millieneum. Just check out Ball and Biscuit from Elephant, it will blow you away along the lines of early Cream and other power blues greats. Speaking of great, It doesn't get any better than seeing U2 in concert. I'm seen them since the Unforgettable Fire tour(Front row center seats, the worst ever) and I have to say that right now they are playing the best of their career. Can't wait for them to return in December. But if you need your U2 fix right now, check out a U2 tribute band called The Joshua Tree, they keep the music as close to the sound you hear on their orignal recordings. They won't act as a live band but one that wants to represent the essence of studio sounds. Log on to thejoshutreeband.com to see where they are playing. If I see anymore rabbit droppings on the bowling alleys, I'm gonna call the MBA to report a wild wabbit is lose in Wakefield. Isn't it ironic that the ending credits of Jarhead, they are playing Kanye West's "Jesus Walks". Kanye blasts one bush while the other one started this disaster. They should have played Metallica's "One" It's more approiate and was released during that time. Speaking of Kanye, his performance at last year's grammys was awesome but it doesn't hold a candle to all time best performance on the grammys and that goes to Ricky Martin performing "Cup Of Life" in Spanish. I'd never heard the song before, this was before the latin explosion in music, but that was a circus extraganza that even got Madonna all wet in her crouch. As Rick Flair would say, "Whhhooooo!" I have to hand it to Mr. McMahon. He has me hooked again on wrestling and it is because he has gone back to characters being the main focus and not plot lines. The welcome back to USA on Monday night Raw was best show he has put out in years. You can't beat Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka flying off the top rope to splash some dumb heel. And last I need a program to tell me who the hell is on what NBA team this year. When did all these players jump teams. Sam Cassell on the clippers, Michael Finley on the Spurs. Was I on strike or the NHL when these guys left town. That's enough for now, I just hope the traffic on the way home is better or another colum will be forming in my mind.

Jamming with Mr. Butch part 5

2005-11-03T18:11:00.000-05:00

Another day, another pearl of wisdom from the future state senator of Allston, Mr. Butch. Butch told me today that all mailman are good. "My momma told me a long time ago, that there are two things to never fuck with, Mailman and welfare checks." I thanked him and told him his mother raised a smart man, of course he was drinking a miller geniune draft tall while spouting this wisdom. "The mailmen are my friends, they bring the welfare checks to the people that need them the most. One time when I was a kid, I was tall for a kid so I looked mean, just like today, some kids were shoving snowballs in a mailbox, I went after those fuckers with a roundhouse left, I'm lefthanded, and scared the shit out of them. Those fuckers didn't realize that if water got on the checks, that the ink would run and we wouldn't be able to read how much the check was." "That's why I like you guys, you bring checks." I said I know Butch we hold all the power. " Wow, that was cool, I won't fuck with you." For the record, I do deliever Mr. Butch's bank statements and checks to his predisposed address of residencey. After dispensing this information, he went back to what he does best, downing the MGD tall and playing Jumpin' Jack Flash on his flute.

College Football Pick 'Em (Week 10)

2005-11-03T14:05:00.000-05:00

Welcome to College Football Pick 'Em ... Please feel free and very much obligated to participate. To take part, simply leave your picks for the 5 games in the comments for this post. Winners will receive nothing, but ill-advised picks will be justifiably ridiculed.

Everyone went 4-1 last week, the standings are as follows:
Brian 16-9 .640
Crazy Horse 9-6 .600
Ming 14-11 .560

#19 Boston College(6-2) at North Carolina (3-4)
Bricks Take: BC must forget the VT game and focus on the last 3 games. UNC showed great promise in the first half last week at Miami. What UNC team will show up? I'm saying a game one. This will be a tough test, but I'm not picking against the Eagles. BC 28, UNC 20

Tennessee(3-4) at #14 Notre Dame(5-2)
Bricks Take: Tennessee is battle-tested. ND will be complacent with their loss to USC and the coach's new 10-year contract. In the Herald this week, it said the Fake Irish will not play BC beyond 2010, breaking off the rivarly. Go beat up on Rutgers, Syracuse, and Navy and you'll be #1! TENN 31, ND 3

#12 Wisconsin(8-1) at #7 Penn State(8-1)
Bricks Take: Can Joe"Gram"Pa keep the magical season rolling? Over 100,000 will go to Happy Valley, but will they be happy when they leave? Oh yes, Michael Robinson does it all. PSU 34, WISC 23

#23 California(6-2) at #13 Oregon(7-1)
Bricks Take: Cal is the better team, but Oregon is on a roll. They've won 4 in a row. Make it 5 as the Ducks debut on the Pick 'Em will be a quacker. (AFLAC!!) DUCKS 35, CAL 31

#6 Miami (FL)(6-1) at #3 Virginia Tech(8-0)
Bricks Take: These teams are very evenly matched. Both have speed, can play physical, can burn you on special teams, and both have rosters full of criminals. This old Big East matchup will come down to the wire, with a spot in Jacksonville for the first annual ACC championship game on the line. VaTech is playing for a possible spot in Pasadena as well. They have more to lose, but they will win the game. VT 16, UM 13

Good luck!

Jamming with Mr. Butch part 4

2005-11-01T10:22:00.000-05:00

Here's a learning lesson and short story for everyone. One day Mr. Butch was doing the hang at his favorite spot at Comm Ave and Harvard Ave. As a good samaritan was handing Mr. Butch some spare change he noticed something waving in the catch basin. Like a fly to a smelly terd, he immediately knew that it was his day and the good lord and Bob Marley was smiling down on him, as he saw a twenty dollar bill in the catch basin. The problem was how to get it out, since the cover was too heavy and too much traffic around him. This is when his street survivor instinct kicked in. Finding some old used gum stuck to lamp post and a broken stick in the garbage bins, Mr. Butch fashioned a new age flytrap. With deft percissio, Butch waggled the stick through the grate and snagged the bill. With his soft hands, he slowly brought the currency up through the grate and into his life. "You see it, you can get it, that's what I'm talking about." Not only did Mr. Butch use his keen savvy mind to haul in the dough, he dispursed some of his time honored philosophy, something that all of us can use in our lives. You see it, you can get it. Unless you are Simba.