So I know that plenty of people out there are scared to grill because they don't know when something is done or they are afraid to burn it. Well first off, if you're the type of person that takes food off the grill and cuts into it to see if it is done, then I would expect an angry barnyard animal to come storming through your house. It's already dead, you don't have to kill it again. You've officially just drained out all the juice and most of the taste. Enjoy your cardboard dinner. I do have an easy way to fix your apprehension though. Just wrap it in bacon. Are your pork chops too thick, wrap em in bacon. Don't know what to do with your chicken breasts, wrap those in bacon too. Steaks, scallops, or even sausages can all be wrapped in bacon. Not only does this add enormous flavor, but it keeps the juices sealed inside the meat.
I would suggest this practice primarily on lean cuts of meat when grilling. Sirloin and Filet Mignon steaks, chicken breasts, boneless pork chops, and seafood all will be greatly helped by bacon wrapping. Are you afraid of the calories? Just take the bacon off before you eat it. The same way you cut off the fat or remove the skin can apply to your bacon consumption. While grilling is a great technique, the weather is starting to change. Utilize your bacon wrapping methods in the oven. I love to roast pork or pork tenderloin with some Custom seasoning from Oswego and bacon. The only thing that makes pork better is more pork. The only other bacon roasting I've done would be across the breast of a whole chicken or similarly across a turkey breast. Don't forget to season all your meats, as the bacon won't do the whole job. Similarly as the seasons are changing, I promise to supply you all with a new recipe next week and hopefully stick to that plan in the weeks to come.
Restaurant Recap
If you're looking for another culinary adventure this weekend or in the coming weeks, get out into the countryside and explore Mona's restaurant in Toluca. http://www.bernardirestaurants.com/ This place has the best old school, down home food that I can find on a map. I first went here returning from a high school football playoff game my senior year. The team was coming back from Washington and the bus stopped off at this great place. They have the best tortellini and fried chicken that I can find. I suggest you go all-in and get the family dinner that includes both of those bad boys. You'll have leftovers and you'll be happy that you did. If any of you remember the Townhouse restaurant from back in the day in Morris, then you'll love this fried chicken. Lots of people love their salad dressing as well, and they sell it by the bottle. I'll even double down and give you a second tip if you're willing to make the trip. Stop off in Oglesby and you'll find an old fashioned root beer stand, where they make their own root beer. Have yourself a great float for dessert.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Shaka Rock
Well I broke down, went old school, and actually just bought the new Jet CD. I didn't download it on iTunes, I didn't pick a few songs, I bought the whole album in an actual store. I have to say that thus far I'm pretty satisfied. I choose the word satisfied because it is just good straight forward rock. There isn't anything earth-shattering about their sound. They bring good energy and good lyrics to all of their songs.
Their third album opens up ready to go. K.I.A. is a great rock and roll tune with good musicianship and killer lyrics. Tracks 3 and 4 continue that vibe with She's a Genius and Black Hearts. She's a Genius is the main radio single and it totally delivers as a top twenty rock track for 2009. Black Hearts rocks just a little harder and probably appeals to a wider audience in the rock genre. I would have to say that my other favorite on this album is Seventeen. No it is not a remake of the Kip Winger track from years gone by. It has a totally different sound and pace, which is much appreciated. If you're like me and you've just collected Jet songs from their past two albums, the time is now to jump on board and get yourself a whole album.
Digital Ditty
If you like the classic rock sound with a modern rock flair, then I've got another band for you to give a spin. Apparently the Australia area is a good place to find hard rock because if you like AC/DC, then you'll enjoy the Aussies known as Airbourne. They are classic rock to the point that you almost think it is a cover band, then you realize you haven't heard these songs before. The big hits are Runnin' Wild and Too Much Too Young Too Fast. Put either of those puppies on and you'll be ready to take a dexatrim, jump on the exercise bike, then do marathon sweating to Richard Simmons, Denise Austin, and even Jane Fonda. Don't worry though, it is not bad fake 80s like The Darkness from a few years ago.
Their third album opens up ready to go. K.I.A. is a great rock and roll tune with good musicianship and killer lyrics. Tracks 3 and 4 continue that vibe with She's a Genius and Black Hearts. She's a Genius is the main radio single and it totally delivers as a top twenty rock track for 2009. Black Hearts rocks just a little harder and probably appeals to a wider audience in the rock genre. I would have to say that my other favorite on this album is Seventeen. No it is not a remake of the Kip Winger track from years gone by. It has a totally different sound and pace, which is much appreciated. If you're like me and you've just collected Jet songs from their past two albums, the time is now to jump on board and get yourself a whole album.
Digital Ditty
If you like the classic rock sound with a modern rock flair, then I've got another band for you to give a spin. Apparently the Australia area is a good place to find hard rock because if you like AC/DC, then you'll enjoy the Aussies known as Airbourne. They are classic rock to the point that you almost think it is a cover band, then you realize you haven't heard these songs before. The big hits are Runnin' Wild and Too Much Too Young Too Fast. Put either of those puppies on and you'll be ready to take a dexatrim, jump on the exercise bike, then do marathon sweating to Richard Simmons, Denise Austin, and even Jane Fonda. Don't worry though, it is not bad fake 80s like The Darkness from a few years ago.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Polar Opposites
The more television I watch, the more I hear about the parity in pro football. While maybe some people feel this way on an every game basis, this season has proved that the NFL has anything but parity. There are clearly the haves and the have nots, but the reason has nothing to do with dollars. It all consists of a string of bad decisions from the top to the bottom for a number of teams. If you think the Super Bowl run is going to be hotly contested this season, take a look at the race for the number one pick. Let's check the early candidates:
The St. Louis Rams actually fought hard in week 2 at Washington, but this team has nothing to build around. Steven Jackson is a solid runner, but he'll be an old man in running back years by the time they can actually compete. I think Spags can make that team believe in the locker room, but Marinelli was a motivator and he just went 0-16. This team has absolutely terrible line play on both sides of the ball despite spending top ten picks the past three years on their front line. Bulger should be retired, and this team is the leader in the clubhouse for being on the clock come January.
The Cleveland Browns get worse and worse every year. They actually fired a failed defensive coordinator from the Patriots regime to hire a failed defensive coordinator from the Patriots regime. My guess is that these unorginial bastards will shitcan Mangina by the end of the year and elevate Rob Ryan to the head job. Why you ask? Look what his bro is doing in NY. I told you these guys are unoriginal. They have no good QBs and that will kill a season.
The Tampa Bay Bucs chose a child to run a franchise. Their head coach is officially one graduating class ahead of me at 32 years old. He can't speak in public, so I can imagine that he doesn't do much better in the locker room. He wants to be friends with all his "boys" and fails to get across a winning message. He dealt away their best QB to go with three brothers in the backfield. Of course, these guys didn't need Derrick Brooks or Warrick Dunn around. This team has the worst defense in the NFL according my eye test over the first three weekends.
The Kansas City Chiefs apparently loved the Larry Fitzgerald performance in the Super Bowl because they were the only team that thought Todd Haley was a good hire. He pisses off everyone that he works with. I'm not a big fan of player's coaches, but you can't head into KC and piss off Dwayne Bowe. He's just about all you've got. Scott Pioli, congrats for making the Belichick legend grow even larger because clearly you weren't in charge of making any good decisions in Boston. How's that Cassel deal working out? He might be the third best QB on the roster with Croyle and Thigpen.
There are plenty of other bad teams, but these four are all winless. The Redskins, Lions, Raiders, and Jaguars aren't too far off the pace as far as I can tell. Let's not dwell on ineptitude for this entire post. There are a host of pretty darn good teams in the NFL right now, so I'll give you my weekly rundown of what I saw this weekend. I'll try to do this every Monday after I get to catch a fair bit of action.
The Ravens look great thanks to their offense. Flacco is throwing it all over, but the run game has been the key. Sure the D looked great against the Brownies, but that was their first solid effort. Congrats to the Lions, and I'm going to take a bit of credit along with my main man Michigan Neush for actually picking them to win this weekend. Anybody who saw the Redskins play the Rams the week prior could have used this pick in the eliminator challenge. Jim Zorn seems like a nice guy, but he has no chance. Daniel Snyder will win as many titles as Mark Cuban in the NBA. Is there anybody else that wants to see the Texans and Saints duel for about 6 hours and see who hits 200 points first? That said, Gary Kubiak is getting fired after the season because the Texans aren't making the playoffs. Note to the Bears: Lovie has looked pretty damn good calling defensive plays and the players respect him. Keep him around as the head man/DC and hire Kubiak to be the offensive head coach. You'll instantly be better and so will your offensive line because he'll cut all your lard asses. At least they can't call those guys gutless.
Don't count me as one of those guys who are going to praise the Patriots. They won a home game against a team with a young QB who certainly isn't going to go unbeaten. The Pats don't win their division, and they'll be lucky to be 10-6 and hope for a playoff spot. Brady doesn't have the protection or the weapons and the defense sucks out loud. In case anyone is looking for an update, no Michael Turner hasn't stopped eating. Either that of his jersey is hooked up to a vat of helium. He's got as much explosion as pop rocks. I will be shocked if the Packers challenge for the division title. They still look like they haven't woken up. Rodgers has no protection and Ryan Grant looks like an undrafted free agent. Oh where oh where has Samkon Gado gone? The Giants are real damn good and it is due to line play on both sides of the ball. Apparently Eli actually plays better when he bleeds money. J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets. I love the Rex Ryan philosophy and these guys are a joy to watch. Sanchez will not let this team lose if it gets a lead. He knows how to make accurate throws and good decisions with a lead, and Rex will not let his defense give that lead up. In two weeks, this defense adds its best pass rusher back from suspension. Just think if Vernon Gholston could actually play? The Titans season isn't over at 0-3. They've had a tough stretch, but have played well. I can't wait to see a half way decent team play the Phily defense. The most overrated 3-0 squad in the league resides near the Liberty Bell. Guess what TV guys, no one gives a shit about a former inmate who ran for 7 yards all damn day. Speaking of guys no one gives a shit about, I watched zero highlight shows due to the incessant Favre love that was certain to come with them. Speaking of highlight shows, pretty impressive that you need a degree to work in television...oh wait, tell that to Shannon Sharpe, Deion Sanders, Michael Irvin, Cris Carter, Keyshawn, etc. Can any of these guys read or write?
I liked the Saints better when Drew was throwing for a million yards a game. If the Bills start Marshawn Lynch after suspension, Jauron should just fire himself. How fun are the 49ers? They just kind of hang around score random points and don't make mistakes. Maybe there will be a Score remote if they make the playoffs and Terry and Dan can eat a truckload of crow for all their Singletary bashing. I'm pretty sure that I could find five mid-level college defensive linemen and two inside linebackers, run a 5-2, and stop the Bears running game 90% of the time. Their O-line can't block anybody, and Matt Forte is Shaun Alexander on his best day. Remember that guy did win an MVP, but when the blocking stopped, so did he. I can hear the Who Dey chants from Riverfront all the way in Chicagoland. Marvin Lewis found himself some linebackers. Carson Palmer has officially said Remember Me? The Steelers fall under the Titans category. They've generally played well and will be just fine. Sorry to all the northshore readers, Rashard Mendenhall has a one way ticket to Canada. I will personally guarantee that 3-0 Denver will not finish this season with a winning record. The Raiders make me sick that they've won an NFL game. That might tell you something about KC's talent level. They piss me off because they're ruining Darren McFadden for the rest of us. San Diego seems content to sleep walk through another regular season. Miami just lost their QB, but they probably just helped themselves start looking toward the future. They're old and bad, but not quite gay. Although on second thought, Landshark Stadium does qualify them as gay. Peyton Manning is awesome, and Kurt Warner is not. Maybe the Panthers need to be thrown into that bad team mix because of Delhomme. Talk about ruining good running back talent. That should just about cover the entire weekend.
Final note: the blog and hopefully all the readers send get well and best wishes to Stafon Johnson, a senior running back at USC. He underwent emergency surgery this afternoon after he lost the grip during a bench press and the bar fell on his throat. Hope for a full and speedy recovery for a terrible accident. I'm sure Pete Carroll has made a lot of money for that school over the past decade, and I hope they invest some of it in some Smith machines for those kids.
Dear Mr. Fantasy
This was certainly a weird week of action throughout the league. Hopefully you took a late round flier on Willis McGahee. All I can say is that I hope you either drafted some good recievers or picked up the scraps over the first few weeks. There is nothing left out there folks. If you want to take a flier on someone else's trash good luck to you. I can't endorse Eddie Royal, Terrell Owens, Donnie Avery, Antonio Bryant, or TJ Housh. There aren't any receivers currently struggling that look poised for a breakout. Wait this position out for another few weeks. Glen Coffee is a must add as he got 20+ carries once Gore left the game. Vernon Davis also showed signs of life and appears to be a real part of their passing attack. Mike Wallace and Tashard Choice are third options at WR and RB that could pay dividends down the road. Take a look at young legs in split shares to see if you can pry away some fantasy gold for the stretch run i.e. McCoy, Washington, Bradshaw, and possibly Felix Jones. If you're looking to deal for any receiver at this point, look at their team's philosophy and make sure they're throwing over 20 passes per game. Also, look for running backs on teams with good offensive lines. This could be the time to buy DWard or Cadillac as the Bucs just looked awful. Their center will return and they are committed to running the ball. Good luck in week four and remember to use the trading block feature.
The St. Louis Rams actually fought hard in week 2 at Washington, but this team has nothing to build around. Steven Jackson is a solid runner, but he'll be an old man in running back years by the time they can actually compete. I think Spags can make that team believe in the locker room, but Marinelli was a motivator and he just went 0-16. This team has absolutely terrible line play on both sides of the ball despite spending top ten picks the past three years on their front line. Bulger should be retired, and this team is the leader in the clubhouse for being on the clock come January.
The Cleveland Browns get worse and worse every year. They actually fired a failed defensive coordinator from the Patriots regime to hire a failed defensive coordinator from the Patriots regime. My guess is that these unorginial bastards will shitcan Mangina by the end of the year and elevate Rob Ryan to the head job. Why you ask? Look what his bro is doing in NY. I told you these guys are unoriginal. They have no good QBs and that will kill a season.
The Tampa Bay Bucs chose a child to run a franchise. Their head coach is officially one graduating class ahead of me at 32 years old. He can't speak in public, so I can imagine that he doesn't do much better in the locker room. He wants to be friends with all his "boys" and fails to get across a winning message. He dealt away their best QB to go with three brothers in the backfield. Of course, these guys didn't need Derrick Brooks or Warrick Dunn around. This team has the worst defense in the NFL according my eye test over the first three weekends.
The Kansas City Chiefs apparently loved the Larry Fitzgerald performance in the Super Bowl because they were the only team that thought Todd Haley was a good hire. He pisses off everyone that he works with. I'm not a big fan of player's coaches, but you can't head into KC and piss off Dwayne Bowe. He's just about all you've got. Scott Pioli, congrats for making the Belichick legend grow even larger because clearly you weren't in charge of making any good decisions in Boston. How's that Cassel deal working out? He might be the third best QB on the roster with Croyle and Thigpen.
There are plenty of other bad teams, but these four are all winless. The Redskins, Lions, Raiders, and Jaguars aren't too far off the pace as far as I can tell. Let's not dwell on ineptitude for this entire post. There are a host of pretty darn good teams in the NFL right now, so I'll give you my weekly rundown of what I saw this weekend. I'll try to do this every Monday after I get to catch a fair bit of action.
The Ravens look great thanks to their offense. Flacco is throwing it all over, but the run game has been the key. Sure the D looked great against the Brownies, but that was their first solid effort. Congrats to the Lions, and I'm going to take a bit of credit along with my main man Michigan Neush for actually picking them to win this weekend. Anybody who saw the Redskins play the Rams the week prior could have used this pick in the eliminator challenge. Jim Zorn seems like a nice guy, but he has no chance. Daniel Snyder will win as many titles as Mark Cuban in the NBA. Is there anybody else that wants to see the Texans and Saints duel for about 6 hours and see who hits 200 points first? That said, Gary Kubiak is getting fired after the season because the Texans aren't making the playoffs. Note to the Bears: Lovie has looked pretty damn good calling defensive plays and the players respect him. Keep him around as the head man/DC and hire Kubiak to be the offensive head coach. You'll instantly be better and so will your offensive line because he'll cut all your lard asses. At least they can't call those guys gutless.
Don't count me as one of those guys who are going to praise the Patriots. They won a home game against a team with a young QB who certainly isn't going to go unbeaten. The Pats don't win their division, and they'll be lucky to be 10-6 and hope for a playoff spot. Brady doesn't have the protection or the weapons and the defense sucks out loud. In case anyone is looking for an update, no Michael Turner hasn't stopped eating. Either that of his jersey is hooked up to a vat of helium. He's got as much explosion as pop rocks. I will be shocked if the Packers challenge for the division title. They still look like they haven't woken up. Rodgers has no protection and Ryan Grant looks like an undrafted free agent. Oh where oh where has Samkon Gado gone? The Giants are real damn good and it is due to line play on both sides of the ball. Apparently Eli actually plays better when he bleeds money. J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets. I love the Rex Ryan philosophy and these guys are a joy to watch. Sanchez will not let this team lose if it gets a lead. He knows how to make accurate throws and good decisions with a lead, and Rex will not let his defense give that lead up. In two weeks, this defense adds its best pass rusher back from suspension. Just think if Vernon Gholston could actually play? The Titans season isn't over at 0-3. They've had a tough stretch, but have played well. I can't wait to see a half way decent team play the Phily defense. The most overrated 3-0 squad in the league resides near the Liberty Bell. Guess what TV guys, no one gives a shit about a former inmate who ran for 7 yards all damn day. Speaking of guys no one gives a shit about, I watched zero highlight shows due to the incessant Favre love that was certain to come with them. Speaking of highlight shows, pretty impressive that you need a degree to work in television...oh wait, tell that to Shannon Sharpe, Deion Sanders, Michael Irvin, Cris Carter, Keyshawn, etc. Can any of these guys read or write?
I liked the Saints better when Drew was throwing for a million yards a game. If the Bills start Marshawn Lynch after suspension, Jauron should just fire himself. How fun are the 49ers? They just kind of hang around score random points and don't make mistakes. Maybe there will be a Score remote if they make the playoffs and Terry and Dan can eat a truckload of crow for all their Singletary bashing. I'm pretty sure that I could find five mid-level college defensive linemen and two inside linebackers, run a 5-2, and stop the Bears running game 90% of the time. Their O-line can't block anybody, and Matt Forte is Shaun Alexander on his best day. Remember that guy did win an MVP, but when the blocking stopped, so did he. I can hear the Who Dey chants from Riverfront all the way in Chicagoland. Marvin Lewis found himself some linebackers. Carson Palmer has officially said Remember Me? The Steelers fall under the Titans category. They've generally played well and will be just fine. Sorry to all the northshore readers, Rashard Mendenhall has a one way ticket to Canada. I will personally guarantee that 3-0 Denver will not finish this season with a winning record. The Raiders make me sick that they've won an NFL game. That might tell you something about KC's talent level. They piss me off because they're ruining Darren McFadden for the rest of us. San Diego seems content to sleep walk through another regular season. Miami just lost their QB, but they probably just helped themselves start looking toward the future. They're old and bad, but not quite gay. Although on second thought, Landshark Stadium does qualify them as gay. Peyton Manning is awesome, and Kurt Warner is not. Maybe the Panthers need to be thrown into that bad team mix because of Delhomme. Talk about ruining good running back talent. That should just about cover the entire weekend.
Final note: the blog and hopefully all the readers send get well and best wishes to Stafon Johnson, a senior running back at USC. He underwent emergency surgery this afternoon after he lost the grip during a bench press and the bar fell on his throat. Hope for a full and speedy recovery for a terrible accident. I'm sure Pete Carroll has made a lot of money for that school over the past decade, and I hope they invest some of it in some Smith machines for those kids.
Dear Mr. Fantasy
This was certainly a weird week of action throughout the league. Hopefully you took a late round flier on Willis McGahee. All I can say is that I hope you either drafted some good recievers or picked up the scraps over the first few weeks. There is nothing left out there folks. If you want to take a flier on someone else's trash good luck to you. I can't endorse Eddie Royal, Terrell Owens, Donnie Avery, Antonio Bryant, or TJ Housh. There aren't any receivers currently struggling that look poised for a breakout. Wait this position out for another few weeks. Glen Coffee is a must add as he got 20+ carries once Gore left the game. Vernon Davis also showed signs of life and appears to be a real part of their passing attack. Mike Wallace and Tashard Choice are third options at WR and RB that could pay dividends down the road. Take a look at young legs in split shares to see if you can pry away some fantasy gold for the stretch run i.e. McCoy, Washington, Bradshaw, and possibly Felix Jones. If you're looking to deal for any receiver at this point, look at their team's philosophy and make sure they're throwing over 20 passes per game. Also, look for running backs on teams with good offensive lines. This could be the time to buy DWard or Cadillac as the Bucs just looked awful. Their center will return and they are committed to running the ball. Good luck in week four and remember to use the trading block feature.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Get Back to the Call Letters
I'm going to combo the advice/random column this week because the advice doesn't really pertain to any of my readers, but I had to get it off my chest. Television needs to take a step back and read their call letters. If the name of your station is Music Television or Video Hits - 1, then every once in awhile in the hours while people are actually awake, it might be nice to actually see a music video. Showing a 30 second clip in between shows of a "new" artist who is now making their 3rd album (only this is their first relevant one) doesn't actually count. Sometimes I feel like the Travel Channel is actually a spinoff of the travel channel known as Places You Would Never Want to Go Channel. I'm glad I get to see it on tv because I don't travel with a camera crew, so I would get cut in most of those places. Don't even get me started on the news channels. First off, you don't need an all news channel because there isn't that much news. Call your local affiliates and tell them to free up half of their broadcast by condensing all the violent crimes in bad neighborhoods to a list for 30 seconds, stop interviewing people that can't read nor write, and pull out the random human interest crap. It isn't interesting. Now you've got plenty of time for the locals to deliver all of the actual news going on around the world.
Those are just a few easy cable examples of useless programming, but that isn't even the main reason why I'm writing this column. The advice that I would like to share pertains to comedy and variety shows currently on national broadcasting channels. If Letterman and Conan want to crack a few political jokes each night, we have come to expect it and is a welcome part of the monologue. We know what we're getting from Stewart and Colbert every night, which is the premise of their shows. Keep the political crapola out of Saturday Night Live for crying out loud. This show is just the easiest example, but there are plenty of similar shows that suffer from the same affliction. Hey, we know it is tough times. Your cast has been bad for a number of years and the writing is horrible. The answer is more stupid humor like the Target lady, digital shorts, and commercial spoofs. Once an episode or so is fine when a politician does something dumb or just is dumb (Sarah Palin anyone?), but I don't need 3 fake republican characters every show being painted as complete buffoons. If you're going to keep doing this, at least pull out Pelosi or Biden or another democratic dumbass to even the score. I'm sick and tired of everyone trying to push their agenda at every turn. Guess what asshole, if you really want universal healthcare that bad, google it, find which country suits you best, then move! No one is stopping you. Health care is just one example, but there are countless things that people tirelessly bitch about day after day. If it is that bad, then leave. You notice all those people immigrating into America because they don't like the lifestyle in their old countries? Why not give it a shot? Put your money where your mouth is.
I'm off on a slight tangent at this point, but basically when I tune in to be entertained that needs to be the focus. You can utilize entertainment in any form, but if it actually gets to the point that I notice how you're trying to sell an agenda: you're not entertaining anymore. It is probably worse with SNL because you know if they weren't reading off those cue cards, they likely wouldn't have a thought. Broadcast TV goes out to everyone's home, so it might not be wise to alienate all those 40-60 year olds that actually have jobs and money just to keep it real for your younger peeps. Completely random final side point: we know that these "kids" in the high school shows on tv are actually in their mid-twenties, but it probably isn't wise to continuously show these "kids" partying and drinking if you're trying to sell the point that they are 16 and in high school.
Weekend Wonderment
There really is only one thing to be doing this weekend: Grundy County Cornfest. Boy I sure have been beating the colon to death in the last two paragraphs. Speaking of beating your colon into submission, the Cornfest will certainly help you with that. Corn dogs and bratwurst at every turn, plenty of other fried delights, sugar waters, and of course alcohol will make the weekend all the more merry. Personal selections would be the fresh roasted corn, the pork poor boy, corn dogs, ribeyes at First Midwest, and porkburgers on Sunday at the Methodist church. There are bars basically lining every street downtown, so you can't miss that action. If you want to know what else there is to do, I've pretty much covered it with the eating and the drinking. There are other things, but not very many pertain to this demographic.
Those are just a few easy cable examples of useless programming, but that isn't even the main reason why I'm writing this column. The advice that I would like to share pertains to comedy and variety shows currently on national broadcasting channels. If Letterman and Conan want to crack a few political jokes each night, we have come to expect it and is a welcome part of the monologue. We know what we're getting from Stewart and Colbert every night, which is the premise of their shows. Keep the political crapola out of Saturday Night Live for crying out loud. This show is just the easiest example, but there are plenty of similar shows that suffer from the same affliction. Hey, we know it is tough times. Your cast has been bad for a number of years and the writing is horrible. The answer is more stupid humor like the Target lady, digital shorts, and commercial spoofs. Once an episode or so is fine when a politician does something dumb or just is dumb (Sarah Palin anyone?), but I don't need 3 fake republican characters every show being painted as complete buffoons. If you're going to keep doing this, at least pull out Pelosi or Biden or another democratic dumbass to even the score. I'm sick and tired of everyone trying to push their agenda at every turn. Guess what asshole, if you really want universal healthcare that bad, google it, find which country suits you best, then move! No one is stopping you. Health care is just one example, but there are countless things that people tirelessly bitch about day after day. If it is that bad, then leave. You notice all those people immigrating into America because they don't like the lifestyle in their old countries? Why not give it a shot? Put your money where your mouth is.
I'm off on a slight tangent at this point, but basically when I tune in to be entertained that needs to be the focus. You can utilize entertainment in any form, but if it actually gets to the point that I notice how you're trying to sell an agenda: you're not entertaining anymore. It is probably worse with SNL because you know if they weren't reading off those cue cards, they likely wouldn't have a thought. Broadcast TV goes out to everyone's home, so it might not be wise to alienate all those 40-60 year olds that actually have jobs and money just to keep it real for your younger peeps. Completely random final side point: we know that these "kids" in the high school shows on tv are actually in their mid-twenties, but it probably isn't wise to continuously show these "kids" partying and drinking if you're trying to sell the point that they are 16 and in high school.
Weekend Wonderment
There really is only one thing to be doing this weekend: Grundy County Cornfest. Boy I sure have been beating the colon to death in the last two paragraphs. Speaking of beating your colon into submission, the Cornfest will certainly help you with that. Corn dogs and bratwurst at every turn, plenty of other fried delights, sugar waters, and of course alcohol will make the weekend all the more merry. Personal selections would be the fresh roasted corn, the pork poor boy, corn dogs, ribeyes at First Midwest, and porkburgers on Sunday at the Methodist church. There are bars basically lining every street downtown, so you can't miss that action. If you want to know what else there is to do, I've pretty much covered it with the eating and the drinking. There are other things, but not very many pertain to this demographic.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Gift of Food
Everybody has to eat, and everyone that I know likes to eat well. Not all of them like to cook, and even if they do, might not do it all that often. All of us struggle at times to find that gift for a loved one, but have you ever thought of giving the gift of food? I only recently realized that this idea was right in front of me. I'm lucky enough to have people around me that enjoy my food, and I enjoy cooking for them. I don't always get to do this as much as I or they would like, so why not give them what they're really looking for. A new tie, no. James Taylor's Greatest Hits, definitely not. A swatch watch, now you're not even trying. They want to eat my friends.
Your first inclination is to make baked goods, which are a great treat, but I'm talking about something more substantial. I'm sure you've all heard of dinner by design or you've had a bad tv dinner, so why not replace those with home cooked meals. Break out the dutch oven and make a big batch of whatever you're good at. A pot of chili, pasta sauce, soup, pot roast, or even jambalaya all taste great day after day. They can all be placed in individual containers for the fridge or freezer and will last for a long time for that someone special. On the initial delivery you can even put together a full meal with a beverage of choice, maybe some good bread, and other necessities to fully enjoy the dish. I like to focus on meals that can be reheated on the stove or in the oven, so you can reclaim the taste of food that was actually cooked by a human at some point in lieu of the microwave. You could even pair the food gift with additional gifts like silverware, nice containers, or anything that fits the motif. So next time you're stuck in the gift giving rut, try putting the thought and effort back into the occassion with the gift of food. If you can't cook, snag some Lou Malnati's to go. You can't go wrong there.
Restaurant Recap
In honor of Cornfest week in Grundy County, I need to give some press to the best pizza restaurant in the suburban area, Maria's in Morris. They make homemade pizza that you just can't find in the "true" 'burbs. It is an actual hand tossed crust that isn't paper thin or monsterously thick. The ingredients are actual food not processed meat pellets and frozen vegetables. Surprisingly enough, they are one of the few places that you can get actual bacon on your pizza. Not canadian bacon and not a Baco's knockoff, true strips of the pork belly. If you want a culinary adventure in the extended suburban area, take a quick stop off I-80 at Route 47 and enjoy some truly great pizza. I fully endorse the sausage and bacon version. If you're not feeling pizza, I'd go for the chicken, ribs, or seafood platter complete with frog legs.
Your first inclination is to make baked goods, which are a great treat, but I'm talking about something more substantial. I'm sure you've all heard of dinner by design or you've had a bad tv dinner, so why not replace those with home cooked meals. Break out the dutch oven and make a big batch of whatever you're good at. A pot of chili, pasta sauce, soup, pot roast, or even jambalaya all taste great day after day. They can all be placed in individual containers for the fridge or freezer and will last for a long time for that someone special. On the initial delivery you can even put together a full meal with a beverage of choice, maybe some good bread, and other necessities to fully enjoy the dish. I like to focus on meals that can be reheated on the stove or in the oven, so you can reclaim the taste of food that was actually cooked by a human at some point in lieu of the microwave. You could even pair the food gift with additional gifts like silverware, nice containers, or anything that fits the motif. So next time you're stuck in the gift giving rut, try putting the thought and effort back into the occassion with the gift of food. If you can't cook, snag some Lou Malnati's to go. You can't go wrong there.
Restaurant Recap
In honor of Cornfest week in Grundy County, I need to give some press to the best pizza restaurant in the suburban area, Maria's in Morris. They make homemade pizza that you just can't find in the "true" 'burbs. It is an actual hand tossed crust that isn't paper thin or monsterously thick. The ingredients are actual food not processed meat pellets and frozen vegetables. Surprisingly enough, they are one of the few places that you can get actual bacon on your pizza. Not canadian bacon and not a Baco's knockoff, true strips of the pork belly. If you want a culinary adventure in the extended suburban area, take a quick stop off I-80 at Route 47 and enjoy some truly great pizza. I fully endorse the sausage and bacon version. If you're not feeling pizza, I'd go for the chicken, ribs, or seafood platter complete with frog legs.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Backspacer
If you've spent more than ten minutes reading this blog thus far, you had to have good money down on today's topic being the new Pearl Jam CD. The 9th studio album was released on Sunday via iTunes, Target, Ten Club website, and local independent record stores. Yes my friends, you can go ahead and pick yourself up a vinyl edition of the latest masterpiece. I'm certainly going to do my best to objectively capture the highs and lows of these new eleven tracks. I'm hoping to assist the casual fan in their decision whether or not to invest in Backspacer.
The first three tracks are a locomotive out of the gate. A solid punch in the mouth to follow up the inspired self titled album from 2006. Gonna See My Friend is a quick rocker with an easy listening hook. I don't think it is quite as strong as the next two tracks, but it serves as the perfect interlude to get you fully lubed up for some rock n roll. Got Some has certainly come a long way since that infamous debut on opening night of The Tonight Show w/ Conan. I'm personally drawn to this track since I've heard it live twice, but I think even the album version will rock your face off. It is a must listen even if you're just looking to add another single to your workout collection. The debut single of The Fixer is track 3 and it is a solid all around rock song. It appeals to consumers because of the easy hook and classic rock vibe. Johnny Guitar is filler. As a devout PJ fan, I'll listen to it and marginally enjoy it. It is quick, so feel free to give it a fair shake. It just doesn't deliver like the rest of the album. Just Breathe certainly isn't a remake of the Faith Hill classic. Fans who really love the slow PJ ballads like Wishlist, Oceans, or Nothingman will certainly appreciate the writing in this effort.
Halfway home now, have I worked you into a froth yet? Did you take a break from reading to start the iTunes download? I suggest the actual CD as there is some stellar artwork in there as well as the full lyrics. Amongst the Waves brings back the old school rocker. It's a little slower than classics like Alive and Jeremy, but comparable to Black. This will be a top of the rotation tune for years to come. Unthought Known is my personal pick to click. After three spins of the new album last Friday, I woke up Saturday morning with a song pacing through my head. I had to put the album on to figure out which song it was, and this is the one. It's just a solid, catchy rock song. Supersonic is Chet approved. His early leader in the clubhouse is a punk style, in-your-face rocker. It's fast, fun, and a good addition. Speed of Sound qualifies as filler for me as well. This tune was the first track to be introduced to the skip button. It just has no pace or real direction. Force of Nature has a really good open which draws you in. Overall, it is a pretty nondescript track, but we're not going to get another Ten or Vs. so we'll take it. The End is another great slower ballad. It might be short enough that you could actually hold your lighter up the entire tune without it flaming out.
That's your full album review of Backspacer. Certainly give all the songs a listen and form your own opinions. I'd love to hear anything that you have to say about Backspacer if you've given it a few spins. If you're still apprehensive, go to Rhapsody and use 11 of your free monthly plays without logging in to preview the whole album. I've got official bootlegs from each of the two Chicago shows coming in the mail this week, so if you post your review and want a live version of Got some, The Fixer, or Supersonic I'll be happy to email one your way.
Digital Ditty
I won't pass up this opportunity to piggyback the Pearl Jam post with even more suggestions to add to your personal collection of PJ. It would be worthless to suggest one of the new tracks here, so I'll go real deep and hit the Lost Dogs double disc. Most people our age forget about this album as it was released during the college years in the midst of one of the band's down times. I'll give you a pick off each disc for review. If you're looking for another rocker, you need to add the Ten album outtake Alone. For those of you who long for another rock ballad, you can't fail with Hold On. Don't worry, as far as I know PJ won't be in the area for a concert or releasing another album anytime soon, so we'll switch it up in the following weeks. More new CD reviews forthcoming.
The first three tracks are a locomotive out of the gate. A solid punch in the mouth to follow up the inspired self titled album from 2006. Gonna See My Friend is a quick rocker with an easy listening hook. I don't think it is quite as strong as the next two tracks, but it serves as the perfect interlude to get you fully lubed up for some rock n roll. Got Some has certainly come a long way since that infamous debut on opening night of The Tonight Show w/ Conan. I'm personally drawn to this track since I've heard it live twice, but I think even the album version will rock your face off. It is a must listen even if you're just looking to add another single to your workout collection. The debut single of The Fixer is track 3 and it is a solid all around rock song. It appeals to consumers because of the easy hook and classic rock vibe. Johnny Guitar is filler. As a devout PJ fan, I'll listen to it and marginally enjoy it. It is quick, so feel free to give it a fair shake. It just doesn't deliver like the rest of the album. Just Breathe certainly isn't a remake of the Faith Hill classic. Fans who really love the slow PJ ballads like Wishlist, Oceans, or Nothingman will certainly appreciate the writing in this effort.
Halfway home now, have I worked you into a froth yet? Did you take a break from reading to start the iTunes download? I suggest the actual CD as there is some stellar artwork in there as well as the full lyrics. Amongst the Waves brings back the old school rocker. It's a little slower than classics like Alive and Jeremy, but comparable to Black. This will be a top of the rotation tune for years to come. Unthought Known is my personal pick to click. After three spins of the new album last Friday, I woke up Saturday morning with a song pacing through my head. I had to put the album on to figure out which song it was, and this is the one. It's just a solid, catchy rock song. Supersonic is Chet approved. His early leader in the clubhouse is a punk style, in-your-face rocker. It's fast, fun, and a good addition. Speed of Sound qualifies as filler for me as well. This tune was the first track to be introduced to the skip button. It just has no pace or real direction. Force of Nature has a really good open which draws you in. Overall, it is a pretty nondescript track, but we're not going to get another Ten or Vs. so we'll take it. The End is another great slower ballad. It might be short enough that you could actually hold your lighter up the entire tune without it flaming out.
That's your full album review of Backspacer. Certainly give all the songs a listen and form your own opinions. I'd love to hear anything that you have to say about Backspacer if you've given it a few spins. If you're still apprehensive, go to Rhapsody and use 11 of your free monthly plays without logging in to preview the whole album. I've got official bootlegs from each of the two Chicago shows coming in the mail this week, so if you post your review and want a live version of Got some, The Fixer, or Supersonic I'll be happy to email one your way.
Digital Ditty
I won't pass up this opportunity to piggyback the Pearl Jam post with even more suggestions to add to your personal collection of PJ. It would be worthless to suggest one of the new tracks here, so I'll go real deep and hit the Lost Dogs double disc. Most people our age forget about this album as it was released during the college years in the midst of one of the band's down times. I'll give you a pick off each disc for review. If you're looking for another rocker, you need to add the Ten album outtake Alone. For those of you who long for another rock ballad, you can't fail with Hold On. Don't worry, as far as I know PJ won't be in the area for a concert or releasing another album anytime soon, so we'll switch it up in the following weeks. More new CD reviews forthcoming.
Monday, September 21, 2009
The Best Ever?
During a time when this sport is waning in popularity and for lack of a better term punch, are we missing out on seeing the greatest boxer of all-time? Floyd Mayweather extended his unbeaten streak again this weekend over a smaller opponent but one that was widely regarded as a top five pound-for-pound pugilist. He flat out dominated the competition with more than one observer recording the fight twelve rounds to zero. He scored his first knockdown in the second round and seemed to be untested much of the fight. It had been almost two years since his last bout, and if someone can't step up to the plate soon we might go another few years without Pretty Boy knocking snot bubbles out of another foe.
This guy really has flat out dominated multiple weight classes since he burst onto the scene in the Olympics. Will the Pacquio fight ever come to fruition? If not, is there any reason for him to continue fighting? He seems to have plenty left in the tank, but the paydays have been numerous already. I am one of the few people I know that long for the days of quality boxing available nearly once per month on HBO with Jim Lampley and Larry Merchant calling the action and sending it to Harold Lederman's scorecard. Nowadays if two guys who could knockout their sister get in the ring, it ends up on pay-per-view. There are plenty of people to blame for the demise of the sweet science, but all I know for certain is that we should appreciate this once in a lifetime talent much like we laud Tiger Woods and Roger Federer in equally insignificant sports.
Dear Mr. Fantasy
Congrats to anyone who took a chance on someone in the Giants passing game because you probably got them pretty late, and they look like they're here to stay out of the gates. If Steve Smith or Mario Manningham are still available in your leagues, you probably need them on your roster. It looks like Laurent Robinson is emerging as the top receiver in St. Louis. They're a miserable team. Any of you people who continue to draft Steven Jackson at the top of fantasy drafts are getting what you deserve in his production. Cedric Benson has put together a few nice games, but I sell high if someone wants to make a deal. You might contemplate dealing MJD high too because Jacksonville is awful. Guys on bad teams have a propencity to end up hurt at the end of the year or not playing hard. That's fantasy playoff time and that's no gouda. Get whatever Saints players you can find as long as it isn't Lance Moore. One year wonder with limited talent my friends. I'm thinking Julian Edelman is a one week play if Welker doesn't suit up again next week. Play anyone and everyone against the Tampa Bay defense until otherwise notified. They're awful and getting worse with injuries and benching. For a final thought, if you have a player who has struggled through the first two weeks, you can consider throwing out a bench player only if they have performed well. Don't pull someone you drafted high just so you can play a matchup as it will end up costing you dearly. And on a really really final note, there is way too much good tight end depth to spend any of your quality talent to trade for one.
This guy really has flat out dominated multiple weight classes since he burst onto the scene in the Olympics. Will the Pacquio fight ever come to fruition? If not, is there any reason for him to continue fighting? He seems to have plenty left in the tank, but the paydays have been numerous already. I am one of the few people I know that long for the days of quality boxing available nearly once per month on HBO with Jim Lampley and Larry Merchant calling the action and sending it to Harold Lederman's scorecard. Nowadays if two guys who could knockout their sister get in the ring, it ends up on pay-per-view. There are plenty of people to blame for the demise of the sweet science, but all I know for certain is that we should appreciate this once in a lifetime talent much like we laud Tiger Woods and Roger Federer in equally insignificant sports.
Dear Mr. Fantasy
Congrats to anyone who took a chance on someone in the Giants passing game because you probably got them pretty late, and they look like they're here to stay out of the gates. If Steve Smith or Mario Manningham are still available in your leagues, you probably need them on your roster. It looks like Laurent Robinson is emerging as the top receiver in St. Louis. They're a miserable team. Any of you people who continue to draft Steven Jackson at the top of fantasy drafts are getting what you deserve in his production. Cedric Benson has put together a few nice games, but I sell high if someone wants to make a deal. You might contemplate dealing MJD high too because Jacksonville is awful. Guys on bad teams have a propencity to end up hurt at the end of the year or not playing hard. That's fantasy playoff time and that's no gouda. Get whatever Saints players you can find as long as it isn't Lance Moore. One year wonder with limited talent my friends. I'm thinking Julian Edelman is a one week play if Welker doesn't suit up again next week. Play anyone and everyone against the Tampa Bay defense until otherwise notified. They're awful and getting worse with injuries and benching. For a final thought, if you have a player who has struggled through the first two weeks, you can consider throwing out a bench player only if they have performed well. Don't pull someone you drafted high just so you can play a matchup as it will end up costing you dearly. And on a really really final note, there is way too much good tight end depth to spend any of your quality talent to trade for one.
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