Today's guest blogger: Shane from Marshalltown.
After last week's hangover induced, lackluster performance, I have made a concerted effort to step my game up...
Congratulations to Andy and Kahala!! It was obvious when I met her, that Andy has great taste in women...too bad Kahala's taste in men is apparently below average...
Iowa didn't lose the game because of Ken O'Keefe...unless he called for 5 turnovers...and if he did, he's a jerk and needs to be fired...
Hank Steinbrenner basically declared that the Yankees should be in the playoffs, even though they're not that good...which is funny, since most baseball fans would like to see them NOT make the playoffs, even when they're awesome...
Blazing Saddles would be the funniest movie ever, if they'd lop off the last 10 minutes...Seriously, it's like making out with Jessica Alba, then just as you're really starting to get into it, she unleashes a chili burp in your mouth...not cool Jessica...not cool at all...
America lost a legend this weekend when Paul Newman passed away...With the way Hollywood has wussified itself over the years, it seems we're down to just Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman and Harrison Ford, in the "man's man" catagory...
Matt Millen was fired by the Detroit Lions this week, leaving their fans with nothing to look forward to for the rest of the season...
After meeting KCCI's Andy Garman and John Meyer and WOI's Eric Murphy, during Andy's bachelor party, I'm left wondering "how can I possibly hate "the competition" now!?!?" So I'd like to take this time to apologize to both stations for the rash of "dog poop in a bag, on fire" pranks, that took place during a 3 year stretch, spanning from 2006 thru...the hours leading up to Andy's bachelor party...
I don't know what Jethro's is planning on serving up as "The Cot-Man's Sandwich" but it should be bland enough to bore your taste buds to sleep, while giving you diarrhea of the mouth...
Hey Keith, you know what they say about that Old Spice commercial that gives you nightmares, right!?!? Good looking guy...but a horse's ass...
Can someone please tell Carlos Zambrano that the season didn't end with his no-hitter!?!? Thanks...
The SoundOFF poll about booing left off the 3 choices I would consider voting for...The opposition...when the refs blow a call...and Notre Dame...
If Lou Holtz were to ever say, "Let me tell you shomething Shane from Marshalltown..." would I be correct in assuming he thinks my name is Sane from Marsalltown???
Why is our government putting together a 700 billion dollar bailout for a bunch of morons??? Let 'em suffer so the next group of idiots will think twice about how they do business!!! Screw it, I'd like to declare that I'm running for president and when elected, I will make stupidity illegal...well, except for mine of course...
Shane from Marshalltown
Shane's views are Shane's, and Shane's alone. Unless you agree, then they're yours and Shane's. Let Shane know what you think on feedback, and if you're interested in providing a guest blog, please send it to keith.murphy@whotv.com unless it really stinks, then send it to andy.fales@whotv.com
Monday, September 29, 2008
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
How Ferentz can win back fans' confidence.
-I think the next to biggest thing Kirk Ferentz can do to regain the confidence of many Hawkeye fans is to take down the wall of defensiveness and admit when his hunches are wrong. He doesn't have to apologize for following his "gut feeling", he just needs to be accountable for it. (I still think Ferentz was sending Stanzi a message for defying Ken O'Keefe late in the first half.)
What's that? Oh yeah, the biggest thing Ferentz can do to regain confidence is have Iowa win six of the next eight games. I think four is more likely.
-The Hawkeyes can beat anyone remaining on their schedule, and they can lose to anyone.
-Shonn Greene needed more touches in the fourth quarter at Pitt, but eventually Iowa has to come up with some offense from someone else or defenses will dare Iowa to pass---if they're not already.
-Is DJK overrated, or just in need of a better quarterback?
-Jake Christensen was a great high school quarterback, but he is below average in college. I root for the guy---I think he tries hard, and has been blamed for too much---but Jake and Iowa are a bad match. For whatever reason, he hasn't developed at all at Iowa.
-Rick Stanzi is no Chuck Long. He's no Drew Tate for that matter, but it's not hard to see Stanzi's teammates think he should be the guy, and at this point, Iowa needs to ride the roller coaster. He'll look great one game (see FIU) and shaky the next (see Iowa State), but he deserves a chance to play without looking over his shoulder. Jake's had his chance.
-Chigozie Ejiasi is a promising hire as Iowa's Director of Player Development. A guy who grew up in Cedar Rapids, and played for two Big Ten championship teams at Iowa should have an idea of what life is like for a Hawkeye football player.
-I'm not surprised Iowa State is 2-2, but I'm shocked why the Clones are 2-2: a complete lack of on-field discipline. Iowa State is young, very young, but there's no excusing 14 personal foul penalties. That's embarrassing, and partly on the coaches.
-Also on the coaches, Iowa State not being ready to play at UNLV. Much like Iowa needing to win at Pitt, a win at UNLV has the potential to be a swing game for ISU...perhaps the difference between no bowl and a bowl, so how could the Cyclones come out so flat and unprepared? There is absolutely no excuse. It's on the players too.
-Time to stop pretending there's a quarterback competition at Iowa State. Austen Arnaud earned the job, and if he's not hurt, he should be out there. He is a better quarterback than Phillip Bates. As noted before, Gene Chizik needs to find another way for Bates to play (receiver, punt returns, kick returns---something) and get him on board. If Arnaud gets hurt, Bates can go back to QB.
-Leonard Johnson is young and talented, but he should start the Kansas game on the bench after that cheap shot at UNLV. He was deservedly ejected, but Johnson needs to play under control. When he does, he'll be a good one.
-I watched the Hawkeye game at home in glorious HD, while I saw the Cyclone game at Jethro's. Also on hand, Andy Fales, Willie Farrell, Shane in Marshalltown, Eddie Berlin, Joe Woodley, JT the Nutt, Andy Garman and Jon Miller wearing his Drake basketball shirt. The place was packed in the first half, but nearly everyone cleared out at halftime. We stayed for the thrilling finish---and by that, I mean Andy's exit. (It was his bachelor party.) The last second Arnaud TD pass was good too.
-Jon Miller does cheer the Cyclones. I saw it with my own eyes and heard it with my own ears.
-Does anyone run the football harder than Marion Barber?
-Laura Linney did win the Emmy for John Adams. Since I was right, I don't have to watch an HGTV marathon.
-My four year old, Colin, just discovered Michael Jackson's music, which is all he needs to know for now. Hearing some of those old songs, I was reminded what a great talent Jackson was before he went all weird, white, and reclusive. Just try not to tap your feet along with Dirty Diana, Beat It, or Billie Jean.
-I loved that the Yankees left Roger Clemens out of the Yankee Stadium celebration, but there's no excuse for not including Joe Torre.
-The Ryder Cup was riveting television, like watching a great night of the Olympics. I love feeling patriotic, especially during a rough year like this one. Bonus props to Boo Weekley for watching Happy Gilmore as many times as the rest of us.
-I like the Chiefs, but they should not be shown on local television again unless there's no other option.
-How fun was it watching the Dolphins run all over the Patriots with the Single Wing? That was awesome. (Apologies to Patriots fans. You've had a great run. We have to gloat over your misery because we're jealous.)
-Are any of these new TV shows any good?
-Tina Fey's brilliant, spot-on impression of Sarah Palin did a great job of disguising what has been an otherwise lackluster start to SNL.
-Chris Hassel's "gut feeling" about what to wear during his sportscast hit the nail on the head for Hawk fans. Funny too.
-Baby Mama was less funny and more sweet than expected. One laugh out loud scene (wheeling Amy Poehler into the hospital). B-
-Congrats to Andy and Kahala! (and Lisa and Jeff)
Keith
What's that? Oh yeah, the biggest thing Ferentz can do to regain confidence is have Iowa win six of the next eight games. I think four is more likely.
-The Hawkeyes can beat anyone remaining on their schedule, and they can lose to anyone.
-Shonn Greene needed more touches in the fourth quarter at Pitt, but eventually Iowa has to come up with some offense from someone else or defenses will dare Iowa to pass---if they're not already.
-Is DJK overrated, or just in need of a better quarterback?
-Jake Christensen was a great high school quarterback, but he is below average in college. I root for the guy---I think he tries hard, and has been blamed for too much---but Jake and Iowa are a bad match. For whatever reason, he hasn't developed at all at Iowa.
-Rick Stanzi is no Chuck Long. He's no Drew Tate for that matter, but it's not hard to see Stanzi's teammates think he should be the guy, and at this point, Iowa needs to ride the roller coaster. He'll look great one game (see FIU) and shaky the next (see Iowa State), but he deserves a chance to play without looking over his shoulder. Jake's had his chance.
-Chigozie Ejiasi is a promising hire as Iowa's Director of Player Development. A guy who grew up in Cedar Rapids, and played for two Big Ten championship teams at Iowa should have an idea of what life is like for a Hawkeye football player.
-I'm not surprised Iowa State is 2-2, but I'm shocked why the Clones are 2-2: a complete lack of on-field discipline. Iowa State is young, very young, but there's no excusing 14 personal foul penalties. That's embarrassing, and partly on the coaches.
-Also on the coaches, Iowa State not being ready to play at UNLV. Much like Iowa needing to win at Pitt, a win at UNLV has the potential to be a swing game for ISU...perhaps the difference between no bowl and a bowl, so how could the Cyclones come out so flat and unprepared? There is absolutely no excuse. It's on the players too.
-Time to stop pretending there's a quarterback competition at Iowa State. Austen Arnaud earned the job, and if he's not hurt, he should be out there. He is a better quarterback than Phillip Bates. As noted before, Gene Chizik needs to find another way for Bates to play (receiver, punt returns, kick returns---something) and get him on board. If Arnaud gets hurt, Bates can go back to QB.
-Leonard Johnson is young and talented, but he should start the Kansas game on the bench after that cheap shot at UNLV. He was deservedly ejected, but Johnson needs to play under control. When he does, he'll be a good one.
-I watched the Hawkeye game at home in glorious HD, while I saw the Cyclone game at Jethro's. Also on hand, Andy Fales, Willie Farrell, Shane in Marshalltown, Eddie Berlin, Joe Woodley, JT the Nutt, Andy Garman and Jon Miller wearing his Drake basketball shirt. The place was packed in the first half, but nearly everyone cleared out at halftime. We stayed for the thrilling finish---and by that, I mean Andy's exit. (It was his bachelor party.) The last second Arnaud TD pass was good too.
-Jon Miller does cheer the Cyclones. I saw it with my own eyes and heard it with my own ears.
-Does anyone run the football harder than Marion Barber?
-Laura Linney did win the Emmy for John Adams. Since I was right, I don't have to watch an HGTV marathon.
-My four year old, Colin, just discovered Michael Jackson's music, which is all he needs to know for now. Hearing some of those old songs, I was reminded what a great talent Jackson was before he went all weird, white, and reclusive. Just try not to tap your feet along with Dirty Diana, Beat It, or Billie Jean.
-I loved that the Yankees left Roger Clemens out of the Yankee Stadium celebration, but there's no excuse for not including Joe Torre.
-The Ryder Cup was riveting television, like watching a great night of the Olympics. I love feeling patriotic, especially during a rough year like this one. Bonus props to Boo Weekley for watching Happy Gilmore as many times as the rest of us.
-I like the Chiefs, but they should not be shown on local television again unless there's no other option.
-How fun was it watching the Dolphins run all over the Patriots with the Single Wing? That was awesome. (Apologies to Patriots fans. You've had a great run. We have to gloat over your misery because we're jealous.)
-Are any of these new TV shows any good?
-Tina Fey's brilliant, spot-on impression of Sarah Palin did a great job of disguising what has been an otherwise lackluster start to SNL.
-Chris Hassel's "gut feeling" about what to wear during his sportscast hit the nail on the head for Hawk fans. Funny too.
-Baby Mama was less funny and more sweet than expected. One laugh out loud scene (wheeling Amy Poehler into the hospital). B-
-Congrats to Andy and Kahala! (and Lisa and Jeff)
Keith
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Can Iowa win a title? What's wrong with ISU? What's wrong with Righteous Kill?
-It's good to be back home. But I do miss the Doctor Salami sandwiches in Oskaloosa. Good stuff.
-True story: I gained seven pounds during RVTV.
-The best way to watch the Iowa-Iowa State football game had to be in HD. The rain looks the same, but you don't get wet.
I thought it was, for the most part, a rather dull game saved by the fourth quarter fireworks. Iowa was the better team and deserved to win. Iowa, especially Kirk Ferentz, wanted to win in the worst way, and I think the Hawks showed more fire and chemistry than we saw last year. Iowa's defense looks like the real deal up front, Shonn Greene is a man, and Andy Brodell only needs more touches to make more plays.
But... let's not get carried away. Did I really read in several places that Iowa could compete for the Big Ten title? Not the Iowa team I saw. Not even with Iowa's soft schedule. I don't doubt seven wins, but Iowa has trouble at quarterback. Rick Stanzi looked great in two controlled scrimmages, but he was lost against Iowa State's disguised defenses and blitz packages. Jake Christensen has experience and doesn't turn the ball over, but he has an erratic arm and appears to have lost the confidence of many in Iowa City.
Iowa's a better team than last year, and let's not forget they still won six games a season ago, but the Hawkeyes looked better than they are because the competition hasn't been good. If they beat a slightly above average Pitt team, January is possible.
-Iowa State was a big disappointment. I was stunned how undisciplined the Cyclones looked at times. ISU has all kinds of exciting young talent, but it doesn't matter if the team is killing itself with stupid penalties, horrible clock management, and head-scratching play-calls inside the red zone. I did not think I would see a Gene Chizik team look this self-destructive. It gave many a Cyclone fan flashbacks, and not good ones.
We'll know a lot more about Iowa State and Iowa after Saturday.
-Lolo Jones is the best. She gets off a plane in Des Moines, comes to the studio for SoundOff, and takes the time to make every employee at WHO-TV feel like a friend. We put Lolo in our Hall of Fame for three reasons: 1) She's a world champion. 2) She always has time for Iowa. 3) Lolo is a great interview. Insightful, charming, and funny. She could be a motivational speaker.
-How creepy is that body wash commercial where the man in the shower is half horse. Who thought that would help sell product? It makes me want to avoid it.
-Bernard Goldberg's story on HBO's Real Sports showing underage children in India stitching soccer balls for pennies a day was heartbreaking. It was also journalism at its best.
-On the other end of the spectrum, I can't believe I'm still watching America's Got Talent. Especially after the middle weeks when the judges constantly went with the cruel deception of, "I'm very sorry to have inform you that...YOU'RE GOING TO THE NEXT ROUND!" I only fell for it 11 or 12 times.
-The Vikings finally figured out you can't go to the Super Bowl without passing the football. It's too late.
-How bad are the Chiefs? I like the Chiefs, and I can't watch.
-How good was that Eagles-Cowboys game Monday night?! My wife even watched it with me because she feels like she knows the Cowboys after Hard Knocks.
-Erin Kiernan just blogged me out of seeing Righteous Kill. I'll take her advice and watch Heat again.
-As noted in the RVTV blog, we all watched Wedding Crashers the night before the Big Game. If football had a Hoosiers, we might have watched that. Anyway, Vince Vaughn is really funny in Crashers.
-I still can't believe how exciting and scary it is to go 150 miles an hour in a car. If you have the chance to take a few laps at the Iowa Speedway, it's worth the $40, but I guarantee it's much more intense than you expect. You'll walk away with a new respect and appreciation for race car drivers.
-I'll watch the Ryder Cup even without Tiger. Unless something else is on.
-Good to have House back.
-And Entourage.
-True story: I gained seven pounds during RVTV.
-The best way to watch the Iowa-Iowa State football game had to be in HD. The rain looks the same, but you don't get wet.
I thought it was, for the most part, a rather dull game saved by the fourth quarter fireworks. Iowa was the better team and deserved to win. Iowa, especially Kirk Ferentz, wanted to win in the worst way, and I think the Hawks showed more fire and chemistry than we saw last year. Iowa's defense looks like the real deal up front, Shonn Greene is a man, and Andy Brodell only needs more touches to make more plays.
But... let's not get carried away. Did I really read in several places that Iowa could compete for the Big Ten title? Not the Iowa team I saw. Not even with Iowa's soft schedule. I don't doubt seven wins, but Iowa has trouble at quarterback. Rick Stanzi looked great in two controlled scrimmages, but he was lost against Iowa State's disguised defenses and blitz packages. Jake Christensen has experience and doesn't turn the ball over, but he has an erratic arm and appears to have lost the confidence of many in Iowa City.
Iowa's a better team than last year, and let's not forget they still won six games a season ago, but the Hawkeyes looked better than they are because the competition hasn't been good. If they beat a slightly above average Pitt team, January is possible.
-Iowa State was a big disappointment. I was stunned how undisciplined the Cyclones looked at times. ISU has all kinds of exciting young talent, but it doesn't matter if the team is killing itself with stupid penalties, horrible clock management, and head-scratching play-calls inside the red zone. I did not think I would see a Gene Chizik team look this self-destructive. It gave many a Cyclone fan flashbacks, and not good ones.
We'll know a lot more about Iowa State and Iowa after Saturday.
-Lolo Jones is the best. She gets off a plane in Des Moines, comes to the studio for SoundOff, and takes the time to make every employee at WHO-TV feel like a friend. We put Lolo in our Hall of Fame for three reasons: 1) She's a world champion. 2) She always has time for Iowa. 3) Lolo is a great interview. Insightful, charming, and funny. She could be a motivational speaker.
-How creepy is that body wash commercial where the man in the shower is half horse. Who thought that would help sell product? It makes me want to avoid it.
-Bernard Goldberg's story on HBO's Real Sports showing underage children in India stitching soccer balls for pennies a day was heartbreaking. It was also journalism at its best.
-On the other end of the spectrum, I can't believe I'm still watching America's Got Talent. Especially after the middle weeks when the judges constantly went with the cruel deception of, "I'm very sorry to have inform you that...YOU'RE GOING TO THE NEXT ROUND!" I only fell for it 11 or 12 times.
-The Vikings finally figured out you can't go to the Super Bowl without passing the football. It's too late.
-How bad are the Chiefs? I like the Chiefs, and I can't watch.
-How good was that Eagles-Cowboys game Monday night?! My wife even watched it with me because she feels like she knows the Cowboys after Hard Knocks.
-Erin Kiernan just blogged me out of seeing Righteous Kill. I'll take her advice and watch Heat again.
-As noted in the RVTV blog, we all watched Wedding Crashers the night before the Big Game. If football had a Hoosiers, we might have watched that. Anyway, Vince Vaughn is really funny in Crashers.
-I still can't believe how exciting and scary it is to go 150 miles an hour in a car. If you have the chance to take a few laps at the Iowa Speedway, it's worth the $40, but I guarantee it's much more intense than you expect. You'll walk away with a new respect and appreciation for race car drivers.
-I'll watch the Ryder Cup even without Tiger. Unless something else is on.
-Good to have House back.
-And Entourage.
Monday, September 01, 2008
Cupcake Hype, Shawn's Homecoming, and RVTV.
It's great to have college football back. I love nearly everything about it, even the fans who get far too carried away after their team looks good against an over-matched cupcake. Hype makes it more fun, though it does often lead to disappointment.
What did we learn about Iowa State? We know the Cyclones are bigger, faster, and stronger than they were last year. We know they've progressed to the point where they can look sloppy and still blow out a team they should blow out. That's good.
What did we learn about Iowa? We know the Hawkeyes looked like a team again. The focus, intensity, and discipline missing from last year's flop finale against Western Michigan were back against Maine. That's good too. But it was Maine.
Now to things I don't know, but think. I think Jake Christensen will be Iowa's starting quarterback. He moved the team better than Ricky Stanzi, and though Jake made a couple of terrible throws, he made mostly good decisions.
Anytime a team's struggling, the most popular quarterback is the back-up, and over the years, there is no place in America where that's more true than Iowa City. Fans know what they're getting with Christensen, and they're underwhelmed. They like Stanzi's upside, but the coaches fear his downside. Look for Jake under center when it counts.
In Ames, it's Arnaud. Experience counts, and there's no reason to rotate guys with similar assets. However, I think Gene Chizik has to find a way to put Phillip Bates on the field. When you're Iowa State, you can't afford to have a play-maker watching from the sideline. Bates is a play-maker. Ask a Hawkeye fan.
Jack Trice Stadium is finally starting to look like it belongs in the Big 12. They're just getting started on the renovations, but it's already an upgrade.
Speaking of upgrades, the uniforms are better looking, but the color change is so drastic, it's almost like watching a different team. It's going to take time getting used to the change from McDonald's red and yellow, to USC's maroon and gold.
The I-State change is good for Iowa State's bottom line because I see the new merchandise everywhere. It's selling.
Of all the carried away sentiment going around---and that's part of being a fan---none is more over the top than the runaway praise for Jewel Hampton. Yes, he looked great in the fourth quarter against Maine. But it was Maine. The second team Iowa defense tests Hampton more in practice. Give him some time.
Shonn Greene looked great. Wait until he gets in shape.
Good call by our Hawkeye insider, Jon Miller of Hawkeye Nation.com. On his weekly channel 13 segment, Jon predicted Iowa would win 44 to 3. He overlooked the safety. Maybe next time he'll get it right.
Who do you think would win if South Dakota State played Maine? That actually sounds like a competitive game. I say Maine wins.
As I'm writing this, UCLA just upset Tennessee in overtime. Awesome. How can you not love college football.
We're cranking up two RVs Monday morning, thanks to Born Free in Humboldt. This year we're taking RVTV on a road trip. Andy, Shawn, Chris and I will start in Ames on Monday, go to Marshalltown Tuesday, the Iowa Speedway in Newton Wednesday, Oskaloosa Thursday, and arrive in Iowa City for Friday & Saturday. If you have any Cy-Hawk story ideas, please send them to soundoff@whotv.com, and if you get the chance, please come see us (but not too early in the morning. The ISU band did that once last year. We're still recovering.).
How 'bout Lolo Jones calling in to SoundOff from Switzerland at 5:45 a.m. local time. Lolo is the best. Lolo is always an interesting interview, even when half asleep. She says the thing she keeps playing over and over in mind was that she could have won the gold medal on cruise control, but decided to "try and amaze people". The burst caused her to clip a hurdle. She amazed us anyway. (By the way, as promised, I forwarded your notes from here to Lolo.)
Many of you asked why Lolo didn't get a "Welcome Back Celebration" like Shawn. Simple. Lolo hasn't returned yet. She's running track meets in Switzerland this week, and beat the Olympic champion easily. That's the way to get back on the horse.
When Lolo does finally return to Des Moines, I have no doubt many people will show her how proud we are. She deserves it. It won't be the nearly 10,000 who showed up for Shawn, but Shawn Johnson is a worldwide star right now. 15 hours of prime time exposure in the most watched sport in the Olympics coupled with charm, grace and a million watt smile = Leno, Letterman, and the Democratic Convention. (By the way, Shawn is 16. She was not making a political statement. Her agent, Sheryl Shade, told me a week ago, Shawn would be equally honored to lead the Pledge at the Republican Convention, if asked. She wasn't asked.)
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention what an honor it was to host Shawn's homecoming. I was stunned by the size of the crowd, though not as surprised as Shawn ("I don't understand why all these people would come to see me?"). My favorite part of the day was sitting back in the green room with Shawn and her parents and hearing the wide-eyed stories of all that they'd seen and experienced in Beijing. I'm also happy to report that anytime Shawn had to meet someone, especially a kid, she couldn't have been more gracious, or tried harder to make it a memorable experience.
The Nadas came by and asked Shawn if they could have a picture with her, to which she immediately replied, "Can I have a picture with you?". I can't imagine being that talented and famous at 16, but I think she handles it very well. Certainly better than I would have. Her parents have done a great job. Chow too.
I really appreciate all the people who helped organize and put on an event with next to no budget. It gives me more pride in the community and faith in people.
I thought about asking Andy to take the stage as Bela Karolyi that night. I decided it would take the spotlight off Shawn, which is where it belonged, but gosh it would have been funny. I still laugh when I watch that. I have no idea how Andy keeps a straight face. Liang Chow says he laughed so hard he couldn't breathe. (Good place to thank Shawn Terrell and Chris Hassel for editing the videos of Shawn Johnson that fired the crowd up beyond anything Andy and I could have done.)
Speaking of Hassel, he practically pushed Jenny and me into Tropic Thunder. I couldn't wait. I did laugh really hard several times, but overall I was disappointed. It's 30 minutes of over the top, crude foolishness stretched to 100 minutes, but it was worth it for the belly laughs, Robert Downey Junior and Tom Cruise. I saw it with my mom & dad too. The movie earns the R rating and then some. That could have had an effect on my enjoyment too. Even at 44, they're still my parents, and I still get embarrassed when one of the actors promotes the energy drink, Booty Sweat.
Tropic Thunder is the greatest movie of all time compared to The Clone Wars. Will someone please make George Lucas stop before we all forget how great he once was. At least the kids thought it was okay. I was counting seats in the theater to pass the time.
This is the best Cubs team I've ever seen. Cubs fans should worry anyway. The best team doesn't always win the World Series. Not these days. Not with all the rounds in the playoffs.
The NFL on NBC cranks up this week, so it's hard to know when SoundOff will start. We'll have an abbreviated newscast, 10 minutes, and then we'll get it going. Most of you who read this watch the show, and I want to thank you. Overall, more people have watched this year than ever before. We sincerely appreciate it.
What did we learn about Iowa State? We know the Cyclones are bigger, faster, and stronger than they were last year. We know they've progressed to the point where they can look sloppy and still blow out a team they should blow out. That's good.
What did we learn about Iowa? We know the Hawkeyes looked like a team again. The focus, intensity, and discipline missing from last year's flop finale against Western Michigan were back against Maine. That's good too. But it was Maine.
Now to things I don't know, but think. I think Jake Christensen will be Iowa's starting quarterback. He moved the team better than Ricky Stanzi, and though Jake made a couple of terrible throws, he made mostly good decisions.
Anytime a team's struggling, the most popular quarterback is the back-up, and over the years, there is no place in America where that's more true than Iowa City. Fans know what they're getting with Christensen, and they're underwhelmed. They like Stanzi's upside, but the coaches fear his downside. Look for Jake under center when it counts.
In Ames, it's Arnaud. Experience counts, and there's no reason to rotate guys with similar assets. However, I think Gene Chizik has to find a way to put Phillip Bates on the field. When you're Iowa State, you can't afford to have a play-maker watching from the sideline. Bates is a play-maker. Ask a Hawkeye fan.
Jack Trice Stadium is finally starting to look like it belongs in the Big 12. They're just getting started on the renovations, but it's already an upgrade.
Speaking of upgrades, the uniforms are better looking, but the color change is so drastic, it's almost like watching a different team. It's going to take time getting used to the change from McDonald's red and yellow, to USC's maroon and gold.
The I-State change is good for Iowa State's bottom line because I see the new merchandise everywhere. It's selling.
Of all the carried away sentiment going around---and that's part of being a fan---none is more over the top than the runaway praise for Jewel Hampton. Yes, he looked great in the fourth quarter against Maine. But it was Maine. The second team Iowa defense tests Hampton more in practice. Give him some time.
Shonn Greene looked great. Wait until he gets in shape.
Good call by our Hawkeye insider, Jon Miller of Hawkeye Nation.com. On his weekly channel 13 segment, Jon predicted Iowa would win 44 to 3. He overlooked the safety. Maybe next time he'll get it right.
Who do you think would win if South Dakota State played Maine? That actually sounds like a competitive game. I say Maine wins.
As I'm writing this, UCLA just upset Tennessee in overtime. Awesome. How can you not love college football.
We're cranking up two RVs Monday morning, thanks to Born Free in Humboldt. This year we're taking RVTV on a road trip. Andy, Shawn, Chris and I will start in Ames on Monday, go to Marshalltown Tuesday, the Iowa Speedway in Newton Wednesday, Oskaloosa Thursday, and arrive in Iowa City for Friday & Saturday. If you have any Cy-Hawk story ideas, please send them to soundoff@whotv.com, and if you get the chance, please come see us (but not too early in the morning. The ISU band did that once last year. We're still recovering.).
How 'bout Lolo Jones calling in to SoundOff from Switzerland at 5:45 a.m. local time. Lolo is the best. Lolo is always an interesting interview, even when half asleep. She says the thing she keeps playing over and over in mind was that she could have won the gold medal on cruise control, but decided to "try and amaze people". The burst caused her to clip a hurdle. She amazed us anyway. (By the way, as promised, I forwarded your notes from here to Lolo.)
Many of you asked why Lolo didn't get a "Welcome Back Celebration" like Shawn. Simple. Lolo hasn't returned yet. She's running track meets in Switzerland this week, and beat the Olympic champion easily. That's the way to get back on the horse.
When Lolo does finally return to Des Moines, I have no doubt many people will show her how proud we are. She deserves it. It won't be the nearly 10,000 who showed up for Shawn, but Shawn Johnson is a worldwide star right now. 15 hours of prime time exposure in the most watched sport in the Olympics coupled with charm, grace and a million watt smile = Leno, Letterman, and the Democratic Convention. (By the way, Shawn is 16. She was not making a political statement. Her agent, Sheryl Shade, told me a week ago, Shawn would be equally honored to lead the Pledge at the Republican Convention, if asked. She wasn't asked.)
I'd be remiss if I didn't mention what an honor it was to host Shawn's homecoming. I was stunned by the size of the crowd, though not as surprised as Shawn ("I don't understand why all these people would come to see me?"). My favorite part of the day was sitting back in the green room with Shawn and her parents and hearing the wide-eyed stories of all that they'd seen and experienced in Beijing. I'm also happy to report that anytime Shawn had to meet someone, especially a kid, she couldn't have been more gracious, or tried harder to make it a memorable experience.
The Nadas came by and asked Shawn if they could have a picture with her, to which she immediately replied, "Can I have a picture with you?". I can't imagine being that talented and famous at 16, but I think she handles it very well. Certainly better than I would have. Her parents have done a great job. Chow too.
I really appreciate all the people who helped organize and put on an event with next to no budget. It gives me more pride in the community and faith in people.
I thought about asking Andy to take the stage as Bela Karolyi that night. I decided it would take the spotlight off Shawn, which is where it belonged, but gosh it would have been funny. I still laugh when I watch that. I have no idea how Andy keeps a straight face. Liang Chow says he laughed so hard he couldn't breathe. (Good place to thank Shawn Terrell and Chris Hassel for editing the videos of Shawn Johnson that fired the crowd up beyond anything Andy and I could have done.)
Speaking of Hassel, he practically pushed Jenny and me into Tropic Thunder. I couldn't wait. I did laugh really hard several times, but overall I was disappointed. It's 30 minutes of over the top, crude foolishness stretched to 100 minutes, but it was worth it for the belly laughs, Robert Downey Junior and Tom Cruise. I saw it with my mom & dad too. The movie earns the R rating and then some. That could have had an effect on my enjoyment too. Even at 44, they're still my parents, and I still get embarrassed when one of the actors promotes the energy drink, Booty Sweat.
Tropic Thunder is the greatest movie of all time compared to The Clone Wars. Will someone please make George Lucas stop before we all forget how great he once was. At least the kids thought it was okay. I was counting seats in the theater to pass the time.
This is the best Cubs team I've ever seen. Cubs fans should worry anyway. The best team doesn't always win the World Series. Not these days. Not with all the rounds in the playoffs.
The NFL on NBC cranks up this week, so it's hard to know when SoundOff will start. We'll have an abbreviated newscast, 10 minutes, and then we'll get it going. Most of you who read this watch the show, and I want to thank you. Overall, more people have watched this year than ever before. We sincerely appreciate it.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Letters to Lolo
Lolo Jones didn't win gold, but she did show unimaginable grace and class despite crushing disappointment. Many of you have asked how you can write to Lolo.
Just leave a note in the feedback here, and I'll personally forward all your thoughts and comments to Lolo at the end of the week.
It doesn't take gold to make us proud.
Keith
Just leave a note in the feedback here, and I'll personally forward all your thoughts and comments to Lolo at the end of the week.
It doesn't take gold to make us proud.
Keith
Sunday, August 17, 2008
You've got to be kidding me
Did you see the vault? The Chinese gymnast falls to her knees and takes bronze?! The North Korean gymnast steps out of bounds with both feet on her landing and takes gold?! Alicia Sacramone has no major errors and finishes fourth? Crazy Bela Karolyi is right, it's a "rip off" and something smells.
This is why I typically don't watch sports that involve judges.
This is why I typically don't watch sports that involve judges.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
TMZ makes fun of NBC, Iowa, Shawn...me
http://www.tmz.com/tmz_highlight_video?bcpid=1185043860&bclid=1184507640&bctid=1733275640
We can laugh at ourselves, right.?
New Murphy's Law, more reverent, follows below...
We can laugh at ourselves, right.?
New Murphy's Law, more reverent, follows below...
Friday, August 15, 2008
How can you not be proud of Shawn Johnson?
Shawn Johnson is a fierce competitor. She didn't bust her butt for years in hopes of bringing back silver to Iowa. She wanted gold, and as the world champion, carried the burden of "favorite".
Shawn, as we all know, finished second in the all-around to her friend and rival, Nastia Liuken. When it was over, we saw Shawn fight back tears. I'm sure some of it was disappointment, but I think a lot of emotion was relief. Can you imagine the pressure? I really can't, and I played a lot of sports. She's in a whole other world, one most of us can't relate to.
Like so many people in Iowa, I was nervous watching Shawn compete in a sport so unforgiving of the slightest mistake; a sport, in the end, left in the hands of judges.
I think the judges scored Nastia and Shawn too low, especially Shawn. They seemed to favor the ballerina type gymnast over Shawn's athletic tumbling, which is too bad. Who do you think projects a healthier body image for impressionable young girls: Shawn, or the Chinese gymnasts who look like they haven't eaten in months?
In the end, the judges, thankfully, got it right anyway. Shawn usually beats Nastia, but at the Olympics, Nastia was a little better. As an Iowan, heck as an American, I'm just proud of the way Shawn left it all out there, and delivered the floor routine of her life when she needed it most. One mistake and China gets the Silver. That was clutch.
I also loved the way Shawn handled her disappointment with class, grace, and sportsmanship. A lot of much older athletes could learn a thing or two by watching Shawn, and many other Olympians. We've seen a lot of athletes at their best.
I hope Shawn wins gold in one of the individual events, but whatever happens, she's represented us in world class fashion. I know I sound corny, but I couldn't be more sincere. (To write a note for Shawn, visit our hot topic blog. We'll forward your comments to Shawn in a few days.)
I wondered if the way the Olympics made me feel as a kid would happen again. These games have done it. Don't you feel a little more patriotic? A little better about the world? A lot better about elite athletes?
You know when Kobe Bryant is in awe of Michael Phelps, you're watching something special. Phelps is unreal. I still can't believe he found a way to win the 100 fly! I've never seen a more unlikely outcome with one meter to go. Phelps is Houdini in a Speedo.
Also loved the Costas interview with Phelps and Mark Spitz. Can Costas just start doing all the interviews for NBC? Seems like a good idea.
Next up: Lolo!
Shawn, as we all know, finished second in the all-around to her friend and rival, Nastia Liuken. When it was over, we saw Shawn fight back tears. I'm sure some of it was disappointment, but I think a lot of emotion was relief. Can you imagine the pressure? I really can't, and I played a lot of sports. She's in a whole other world, one most of us can't relate to.
Like so many people in Iowa, I was nervous watching Shawn compete in a sport so unforgiving of the slightest mistake; a sport, in the end, left in the hands of judges.
I think the judges scored Nastia and Shawn too low, especially Shawn. They seemed to favor the ballerina type gymnast over Shawn's athletic tumbling, which is too bad. Who do you think projects a healthier body image for impressionable young girls: Shawn, or the Chinese gymnasts who look like they haven't eaten in months?
In the end, the judges, thankfully, got it right anyway. Shawn usually beats Nastia, but at the Olympics, Nastia was a little better. As an Iowan, heck as an American, I'm just proud of the way Shawn left it all out there, and delivered the floor routine of her life when she needed it most. One mistake and China gets the Silver. That was clutch.
I also loved the way Shawn handled her disappointment with class, grace, and sportsmanship. A lot of much older athletes could learn a thing or two by watching Shawn, and many other Olympians. We've seen a lot of athletes at their best.
I hope Shawn wins gold in one of the individual events, but whatever happens, she's represented us in world class fashion. I know I sound corny, but I couldn't be more sincere. (To write a note for Shawn, visit our hot topic blog. We'll forward your comments to Shawn in a few days.)
I wondered if the way the Olympics made me feel as a kid would happen again. These games have done it. Don't you feel a little more patriotic? A little better about the world? A lot better about elite athletes?
You know when Kobe Bryant is in awe of Michael Phelps, you're watching something special. Phelps is unreal. I still can't believe he found a way to win the 100 fly! I've never seen a more unlikely outcome with one meter to go. Phelps is Houdini in a Speedo.
Also loved the Costas interview with Phelps and Mark Spitz. Can Costas just start doing all the interviews for NBC? Seems like a good idea.
Next up: Lolo!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Sacramone falls, shows how to get back up.
How rough was it watching Alicia Sacramone fall twice. The aftermath was worse. It's hard to see a young lady being that hard on herself. She feels terrible. Anyone who's ever played sports knows letting your teammates down feels much worse than letting yourself down.
Head up, Alicia. You handled it all with class. First of all, you finished your routines. You know how hard that must be after feeling like you just cost your team the gold?
Alicia also answered every tough media question, even when Andrea Joyce asked about 10 more than necessary. One answer told the entire story.
*
Shawn Johnson was nails. One mistake, but it came after Team USA knew the gold was about as likely as a 100 pound Chinese gymnast. Johnson has, so far, lived up to the hype, which is not easy; there's been a lot of hype. I know because we contributed to it.
I'm in awe of what these girls can do. As Erin Kiernan pointed out, even if we can't swing a club like Tiger Woods, we can still play golf. Most of us can't do any of what Shawn's doing. Her beam routine blows my mind, and makes me a nervous wreck. I don't know how her mom and dad watch.
I also appreciated the leadership and maturity Shawn showed after the team finals. Everyone knew one American gymnast had a really bad night, but Shawn refused to even hint at blaming anyone, no matter how many different ways the question was asked. Besides, it's an Olympic silver medal, not a participation ribbon at the Iowa State Fair.
*
The Chinese "women" deserved the gold. They were better. But does anyone believe three of those girls are 16? Being tiny and light in gymnastics is a huge edge. It's easier to fly, spin, and twist when you weigh 67 pounds. It's well documented the girls have previously been listed as much younger than the required age of 16, but you don't need a birth certificate, just look at them! Shawn is 16, and compared to those tiny Chinese gymnasts, Shawn looks like she's ready to wear a pantsuit to Perkins for an early bird special and a game of Bridge. (For more on this, Andy and I sound off at www.dmregister.com )
*
Michael Phelps is a fish. 11 career golds and counting. He's already the greatest swimmer in Olympic history, and if he finishes with 8 golds and 8 world records in these Games, I think you have to call him the greatest Olympian of all time. Maybe he's already earned that title.
*
I thought I was into these Olympics, but next to Jon Miller, I don't have a TV. Jon sent me a breakdown of the women's gymnastics that looks like it was written by Bela Karolyi.
*
We've all had enough severe weather for one year, but now it's serious: it's occasionally knocking off my HD! I'm so addicted to high definition, I'll watch grown men tread water for two hours (or as they call it in the Olympics, water polo).
*
Gotta go, synchronized scorpion eating coming up next.
Head up, Alicia. You handled it all with class. First of all, you finished your routines. You know how hard that must be after feeling like you just cost your team the gold?
Alicia also answered every tough media question, even when Andrea Joyce asked about 10 more than necessary. One answer told the entire story.
*
Shawn Johnson was nails. One mistake, but it came after Team USA knew the gold was about as likely as a 100 pound Chinese gymnast. Johnson has, so far, lived up to the hype, which is not easy; there's been a lot of hype. I know because we contributed to it.
I'm in awe of what these girls can do. As Erin Kiernan pointed out, even if we can't swing a club like Tiger Woods, we can still play golf. Most of us can't do any of what Shawn's doing. Her beam routine blows my mind, and makes me a nervous wreck. I don't know how her mom and dad watch.
I also appreciated the leadership and maturity Shawn showed after the team finals. Everyone knew one American gymnast had a really bad night, but Shawn refused to even hint at blaming anyone, no matter how many different ways the question was asked. Besides, it's an Olympic silver medal, not a participation ribbon at the Iowa State Fair.
*
The Chinese "women" deserved the gold. They were better. But does anyone believe three of those girls are 16? Being tiny and light in gymnastics is a huge edge. It's easier to fly, spin, and twist when you weigh 67 pounds. It's well documented the girls have previously been listed as much younger than the required age of 16, but you don't need a birth certificate, just look at them! Shawn is 16, and compared to those tiny Chinese gymnasts, Shawn looks like she's ready to wear a pantsuit to Perkins for an early bird special and a game of Bridge. (For more on this, Andy and I sound off at www.dmregister.com )
*
Michael Phelps is a fish. 11 career golds and counting. He's already the greatest swimmer in Olympic history, and if he finishes with 8 golds and 8 world records in these Games, I think you have to call him the greatest Olympian of all time. Maybe he's already earned that title.
*
I thought I was into these Olympics, but next to Jon Miller, I don't have a TV. Jon sent me a breakdown of the women's gymnastics that looks like it was written by Bela Karolyi.
*
We've all had enough severe weather for one year, but now it's serious: it's occasionally knocking off my HD! I'm so addicted to high definition, I'll watch grown men tread water for two hours (or as they call it in the Olympics, water polo).
*
Gotta go, synchronized scorpion eating coming up next.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
These Olympics are so good, my butt's asleep.
It's rare something lives up to runaway hype, but so far, these Olympics have delivered. It's not going unnoticed. NBC says these Olympics are on pace to be the most watched ever. I'm sure it helps that they're on more than Seinfeld reruns.
*
The opening ceremonies were, hands down, the best ever. I can't imagine the amount of practice, money, and imagination it took to pull that off. That drumming thing blew my mind. I'm also glad HD was invented prior to 08-08-08. Phenomenal.
*
Our entire family was standing up, screaming at the television during Sunday night's 4 X 100 men's swimming relay. That was the greatest finish I've ever seen in any race. The French talked smack, and the Americans made them eat it. Michael Phelps stays on track for 8 gold medals.
*
Phelps is a fish. The guy defies belief. I also love the way he immediately looks for his mother after winning. When you've had a good one, you never outgrow that feeling.
*
Iowa State professor Rick Sharp helped designed the Speedo swimsuit that keeps slicing through the water in world record time. He should design some football uniforms for I-State. Maybe basketball too. Can't hurt.
*
President Bush has the lowest approval rating of any President in decades, perhaps deserved, but I predict he gets a positive bump after the Games. He's at his best in weeks like these, and I agree with his decision to not boycott the Olympics. Boycotting is not the way to human rights progress in China, and it would mostly hurt the athletes (talk to an Olympian from 1980). The interview between President Bush and Bob Costas was interesting. Costas is the consummate pro on nearly any subject.
*
Props to NBC for so much live coverage. It was nice to watch the USA vs. China basketball game live Sunday instead of waiting for prime time. If the Redeem Team doesn't win gold, I'll watch a WNBA game from start to finish by the end of the month.
*
As Chris Hassel said Sunday night, "Shawn Johnson sizzles, Team USA fizzles". Shawn was as good as advertised, showing she's the one to beat in Beijing. Her older, more experienced teammates looked nervous and rattled, but Shawn, as ever, showed poise and delivered. Her coach, Liang Chow, told the Register's Nancy Stockdale that Shawn held back too. She'll up her game when she needs to.
*
If you get popular enough, you'll attract haters. It's true of anyone, even the innocent. Believe it or not, 6% of the people voting at whotv.com say Shawn Johnson won't win a medal in the all-around. For that to happen, she'll have to fall down twice or pull out with an injury. There's definitely some jealousy out there, just talk to someone who goes to Valley. Most of the students are proud and supportive, but a few dislike Shawn's fame (and fast-growing fortune). She handles it all so well. Can't be easy. I know I was a self-centered knucklehead at 16. And 26.
*
Gymnastics needs to bring back the "10". It made scoring much more exciting and understandable.
*
Biggest upset in sports viewing history: Shawn Terrell now watching women's gymnastics with the same passion he brings to the Bears and Cubs.
*
Just got a letter from Lolo's agent, and fellow Roosevelt legend, Kim Carson. Kim says Lolo is having a blast in China and ready to bring home the gold.
*
An athlete gets kicked out of the Olympics, and of course it's a cyclist. Can this sport clean itself up enough to make people believe again?
*
I spent 10 hours at the Iowa State Fair this weekend and really enjoyed it. First at the Olympic Pavilion, where people can watch the Olympics on our big screen, and later at the "Cast Your Kernel" site where folks 18 and over vote for President. Both places were packed and Andy and I met a lot of nice people. Andy is a star. Even people who give him a hard time want an autograph or a picture. He stayed busy signing and posing most of the time. His picture cards look like they were taken during his first day on the job at channel 13 back in 2000. I'm not even sure it's him. That's one way to stay young.
Andy and I will also be doing some Olympic Sound-Offs this week at http://www.whotv.com/ and http://www.dmregister.com/
Thanks for stopping by. I've got to get back to the Olympics. Women's volleyball is on. I can't believe I'm watching either, but it's the United States, I'm hooked, and it's in HD.
Let others know what you love, or don't like, about the Olympics so far.
Keith
*
The opening ceremonies were, hands down, the best ever. I can't imagine the amount of practice, money, and imagination it took to pull that off. That drumming thing blew my mind. I'm also glad HD was invented prior to 08-08-08. Phenomenal.
*
Our entire family was standing up, screaming at the television during Sunday night's 4 X 100 men's swimming relay. That was the greatest finish I've ever seen in any race. The French talked smack, and the Americans made them eat it. Michael Phelps stays on track for 8 gold medals.
*
Phelps is a fish. The guy defies belief. I also love the way he immediately looks for his mother after winning. When you've had a good one, you never outgrow that feeling.
*
Iowa State professor Rick Sharp helped designed the Speedo swimsuit that keeps slicing through the water in world record time. He should design some football uniforms for I-State. Maybe basketball too. Can't hurt.
*
President Bush has the lowest approval rating of any President in decades, perhaps deserved, but I predict he gets a positive bump after the Games. He's at his best in weeks like these, and I agree with his decision to not boycott the Olympics. Boycotting is not the way to human rights progress in China, and it would mostly hurt the athletes (talk to an Olympian from 1980). The interview between President Bush and Bob Costas was interesting. Costas is the consummate pro on nearly any subject.
*
Props to NBC for so much live coverage. It was nice to watch the USA vs. China basketball game live Sunday instead of waiting for prime time. If the Redeem Team doesn't win gold, I'll watch a WNBA game from start to finish by the end of the month.
*
As Chris Hassel said Sunday night, "Shawn Johnson sizzles, Team USA fizzles". Shawn was as good as advertised, showing she's the one to beat in Beijing. Her older, more experienced teammates looked nervous and rattled, but Shawn, as ever, showed poise and delivered. Her coach, Liang Chow, told the Register's Nancy Stockdale that Shawn held back too. She'll up her game when she needs to.
*
If you get popular enough, you'll attract haters. It's true of anyone, even the innocent. Believe it or not, 6% of the people voting at whotv.com say Shawn Johnson won't win a medal in the all-around. For that to happen, she'll have to fall down twice or pull out with an injury. There's definitely some jealousy out there, just talk to someone who goes to Valley. Most of the students are proud and supportive, but a few dislike Shawn's fame (and fast-growing fortune). She handles it all so well. Can't be easy. I know I was a self-centered knucklehead at 16. And 26.
*
Gymnastics needs to bring back the "10". It made scoring much more exciting and understandable.
*
Biggest upset in sports viewing history: Shawn Terrell now watching women's gymnastics with the same passion he brings to the Bears and Cubs.
*
Just got a letter from Lolo's agent, and fellow Roosevelt legend, Kim Carson. Kim says Lolo is having a blast in China and ready to bring home the gold.
*
An athlete gets kicked out of the Olympics, and of course it's a cyclist. Can this sport clean itself up enough to make people believe again?
*
I spent 10 hours at the Iowa State Fair this weekend and really enjoyed it. First at the Olympic Pavilion, where people can watch the Olympics on our big screen, and later at the "Cast Your Kernel" site where folks 18 and over vote for President. Both places were packed and Andy and I met a lot of nice people. Andy is a star. Even people who give him a hard time want an autograph or a picture. He stayed busy signing and posing most of the time. His picture cards look like they were taken during his first day on the job at channel 13 back in 2000. I'm not even sure it's him. That's one way to stay young.
Andy and I will also be doing some Olympic Sound-Offs this week at http://www.whotv.com/ and http://www.dmregister.com/
Thanks for stopping by. I've got to get back to the Olympics. Women's volleyball is on. I can't believe I'm watching either, but it's the United States, I'm hooked, and it's in HD.
Let others know what you love, or don't like, about the Olympics so far.
Keith
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
How many games will Iowa win? Are the I-State uneys ugly?
Three mismanagement examples of a public relations powder keg:
1) ISU's firing of Larry Eustachy.
2) University of Iowa's in-house sexual assault investigation
3) Packers not wanting Brett Favre
In all three cases, you can make the argument the people in charge were doing what they had to do (although in at least one of the examples, that's a weak position). The problem isn't always the decision, it's made worse by the chain of one bad decision after another once the crisis begins.
*
The Packers tried to pay Brett Favre $25 million to not play. Think about that. The Packers offered the most celebrated player in their history a king's ransom to just stay away. And they did it a year after he passed for more than 4,000 yards and led them to the NFC championship game.
I know Favre's yearly indecision dance is beyond tired, but how did it come to this? I mean they really can't stand Favre. The Packers want to start an unproven quarterback who looked bad Sunday night. They won't will they? Not unless Favre gets what I suspect he's wanted all along: his release so he can play for the Vikings. Favre played the Pack perfectly, and if he stays in Green Bay, this ends the only way it can: with Brett Favre as the Packers starting quarterback on opening day. Who knows though. They really don't want him.
*
The Hawkeyes football schedule is so soft, I don't see a way Iowa can win fewer than six games. I think seven wins is about right, and eight is not out of the question. If it's five or fewer, sound the alarms.
*
I expect Shonn Greene to start at running back, maybe not against Maine or whoever Florida International is, but by the Iowa State game, it'll be Greene.
*
Kirk Ferentz still seems irritated by the amount of coverage Iowa football has received for the alleged sexual assault by two Hawkeye football players. He shouldn't be. Several questionable decisions were made by the U of I in general, and the athletic department in particular. Plus, when you get right down to it, Ferentz is so highly regarded by the media as a man of principle and character that Iowa has gotten off relatively easy in terms of bad press when you consider the embarrassment and scope of 18 arrested players in 16 months, many for felonies. Let's hope we see an arrest drought. I think we will.
*
Iowa State's new USC uniforms just made a list as the tenth ugliest in college football (Oregon the no doubt #1). I disagree, but my judgment could be clouded by how awful ISU's uniforms have been in the past. The red-on-red blood clot look was awful.
*
I think some of the Cyclone hype, at least in my inbox, is carried away. If I-State goes to a bowl game, even with the two gimmes to start the season, Gene Chizik is as good as many people in the Cyclone athletic department think he is. Five wins is the prediction here, and four wouldn't shock me. Seven would.
*
I still think Austen Arnaud ends up the Cyclone quarterback when it counts. (See Shonn Green above).
*
The NL Central race is over. No team will catch the Cubs again this season.
*
Sports Illustrated believes we're about to watch the most anticipated Olympics in history. It's certainly true in central Iowa. I can't wait, though I could do without the late nights.
*
NBC is adding an additional half hour to the opening ceremonies. It now starts at 6:30 p.m. Friday. That means our Olympics special moves to 6 p.m. and our newscast to 5:30 p.m.
*
If you're thinking about HD, try to have it by Friday night.
*
Shawn Johnson just won a Teen Choice award as favorite female athlete. In two weeks, she'll be one of the most recognized faces in America. That is unbelievable. So much pressure, but I think she thrives on it.
*
Loved the Register's poster of Lolo Jones. She took that right after our interview. Lolo was working on about 1 hour of sleep. She said she was so excited, and so over-caffeinated that she couldn't sit still. The poster captures that. Lolo is amazing.
*
I saw the Dark Knight again. Didn't like it quite as much the second time, though I still think it's a great movie, and destined for an Academy Award best picture nomination. Three thoughts after a second viewing:
1) The movie is a little too long
2) Heath Ledger is as great as the hype. He's spellbinding.
3) The Dark Knight is really dark, and violent, and in no way appropriate for small kids
*
I keep watching America's Got Talent. Say a prayer for me. I find it entertaining, even as I'm being manipulated by editing and Josh Groban.
*
Entertainment Weekly just did an issue on The Hills. It's the first time I've had no idea who that was on the cover, or any interest in reading even one paragraph. The Hills? What is The Hills?
*
Andy and I will be at the State Fair Sunday afternoon. Stop by and say hello if you get the chance. I can't wait. Sitting next to Andy at the State Fair is like sitting next to Keith Jackson at the Rose Bowl.
*
To end on a personal note---it's a blog after all---I'd like to send a big "THANK YOU" to all the people who helped make my parents' 50th anniversary so special. Among them:
-The fine folks at Rathbun Lake, especially Jim and Cindy, the owners of Buck Creek Cabins.
-Tony the Bucs fan and boat driver.
-Heather the Sangria specialist.
-All the friendly people at the Centerville Wal*Mart.
-Jenny for preparing meals for 30 every few hours.
-The I-Cubs for the video announcement.
-Jeff for re-writing the words to Sweet Caroline into a party-pleasing classic
-All our friends and family for making time and finding a way. I know it's never easy. You're the best. No really, you are.
-Mom & Dad. If you didn't get married, I'm not here. Thus, no blog entry today.
Happy Anniversary!
Keith
1) ISU's firing of Larry Eustachy.
2) University of Iowa's in-house sexual assault investigation
3) Packers not wanting Brett Favre
In all three cases, you can make the argument the people in charge were doing what they had to do (although in at least one of the examples, that's a weak position). The problem isn't always the decision, it's made worse by the chain of one bad decision after another once the crisis begins.
*
The Packers tried to pay Brett Favre $25 million to not play. Think about that. The Packers offered the most celebrated player in their history a king's ransom to just stay away. And they did it a year after he passed for more than 4,000 yards and led them to the NFC championship game.
I know Favre's yearly indecision dance is beyond tired, but how did it come to this? I mean they really can't stand Favre. The Packers want to start an unproven quarterback who looked bad Sunday night. They won't will they? Not unless Favre gets what I suspect he's wanted all along: his release so he can play for the Vikings. Favre played the Pack perfectly, and if he stays in Green Bay, this ends the only way it can: with Brett Favre as the Packers starting quarterback on opening day. Who knows though. They really don't want him.
*
The Hawkeyes football schedule is so soft, I don't see a way Iowa can win fewer than six games. I think seven wins is about right, and eight is not out of the question. If it's five or fewer, sound the alarms.
*
I expect Shonn Greene to start at running back, maybe not against Maine or whoever Florida International is, but by the Iowa State game, it'll be Greene.
*
Kirk Ferentz still seems irritated by the amount of coverage Iowa football has received for the alleged sexual assault by two Hawkeye football players. He shouldn't be. Several questionable decisions were made by the U of I in general, and the athletic department in particular. Plus, when you get right down to it, Ferentz is so highly regarded by the media as a man of principle and character that Iowa has gotten off relatively easy in terms of bad press when you consider the embarrassment and scope of 18 arrested players in 16 months, many for felonies. Let's hope we see an arrest drought. I think we will.
*
Iowa State's new USC uniforms just made a list as the tenth ugliest in college football (Oregon the no doubt #1). I disagree, but my judgment could be clouded by how awful ISU's uniforms have been in the past. The red-on-red blood clot look was awful.
*
I think some of the Cyclone hype, at least in my inbox, is carried away. If I-State goes to a bowl game, even with the two gimmes to start the season, Gene Chizik is as good as many people in the Cyclone athletic department think he is. Five wins is the prediction here, and four wouldn't shock me. Seven would.
*
I still think Austen Arnaud ends up the Cyclone quarterback when it counts. (See Shonn Green above).
*
The NL Central race is over. No team will catch the Cubs again this season.
*
Sports Illustrated believes we're about to watch the most anticipated Olympics in history. It's certainly true in central Iowa. I can't wait, though I could do without the late nights.
*
NBC is adding an additional half hour to the opening ceremonies. It now starts at 6:30 p.m. Friday. That means our Olympics special moves to 6 p.m. and our newscast to 5:30 p.m.
*
If you're thinking about HD, try to have it by Friday night.
*
Shawn Johnson just won a Teen Choice award as favorite female athlete. In two weeks, she'll be one of the most recognized faces in America. That is unbelievable. So much pressure, but I think she thrives on it.
*
Loved the Register's poster of Lolo Jones. She took that right after our interview. Lolo was working on about 1 hour of sleep. She said she was so excited, and so over-caffeinated that she couldn't sit still. The poster captures that. Lolo is amazing.
*
I saw the Dark Knight again. Didn't like it quite as much the second time, though I still think it's a great movie, and destined for an Academy Award best picture nomination. Three thoughts after a second viewing:
1) The movie is a little too long
2) Heath Ledger is as great as the hype. He's spellbinding.
3) The Dark Knight is really dark, and violent, and in no way appropriate for small kids
*
I keep watching America's Got Talent. Say a prayer for me. I find it entertaining, even as I'm being manipulated by editing and Josh Groban.
*
Entertainment Weekly just did an issue on The Hills. It's the first time I've had no idea who that was on the cover, or any interest in reading even one paragraph. The Hills? What is The Hills?
*
Andy and I will be at the State Fair Sunday afternoon. Stop by and say hello if you get the chance. I can't wait. Sitting next to Andy at the State Fair is like sitting next to Keith Jackson at the Rose Bowl.
*
To end on a personal note---it's a blog after all---I'd like to send a big "THANK YOU" to all the people who helped make my parents' 50th anniversary so special. Among them:
-The fine folks at Rathbun Lake, especially Jim and Cindy, the owners of Buck Creek Cabins.
-Tony the Bucs fan and boat driver.
-Heather the Sangria specialist.
-All the friendly people at the Centerville Wal*Mart.
-Jenny for preparing meals for 30 every few hours.
-The I-Cubs for the video announcement.
-Jeff for re-writing the words to Sweet Caroline into a party-pleasing classic
-All our friends and family for making time and finding a way. I know it's never easy. You're the best. No really, you are.
-Mom & Dad. If you didn't get married, I'm not here. Thus, no blog entry today.
Happy Anniversary!
Keith
Monday, July 28, 2008
Can we please talk about something else?
Andy Fales called me Sunday at midnight just to talk. Like me, Andy was exhausted from all the negative energy swirling around the U of I investigation and all the collateral fallout. We've been besieged by angry Hawkeye fans eager to kill the a couple of the messengers they feel responsible for all the bad publicity for Iowa. Many seem to think we relish the opportunity to deliver bad news. Well, to paraphrase Kirk Ferentz, for anyone to enjoy this kind of story, you'd have to be morally bankrupt and fairly ignorant. We're as tired of it as anyone. No one gets into sportscasting for the unhappy stories.
*
Brett Favre. No one ever says "Brett" or "Favre", it's always "Brett Favre". Anyway, speaking of Brett Favre, I can't believe the Packers don't want Brett Favre. I know the 49ers didn't want Joe Montana, and the Yankees dumped Babe Ruth, but we're talking about the Packers and Brett Favre. Hard to picture one without the other. I don't blame Green Bay for growing tired of his shenanigans, but it's Brett Freaking Favre!
It really is a business.
*
Lolo Jones may race a horse at Prairie Meadows? If it's the 100 hurdles, I'm there. And my money is on Lolo.
*
The Iowa Chops gear is selling in a way the Stars never did. That doesn't stop the hate mail, though many admit it's growing on them. Some don't.
*
The new I-State football commercial is a winner. It's a long ways from one of the worst spots I've ever seen. Iowa State once had a lightning bolt hit an empty stadium. I'm not making that up. Nothing says, "I want to buy season tickets!" like no one at a game and severe weather.
*
I'm sure Carson Palmer is getting clobbered in Ohio for talking about how much he hates the Buckeyes, but I love a guy who really says what he thinks instead of what he thinks he should say. We'll get enough of the latter at the upcoming football media days.
*
40-0? That is unbelievable for a baseball team, especially one which played a tough schedule. I know Johnston got a break in the rained out game the Dragons likely would have lost to Marshalltown a few weeks ago, but 40 and 0 takes a little luck, along with a lot of skill. We won't see it again soon in 4-A.
*
I don't think Shawn Johnson fully realizes how much her life is going to change in three weeks if she wins the all-around gold. Overnight she will become one of the most recognized people in America. Get ready.
*
I still haven't seen The Dark Knight a second time, mainly because it's too dark and intense for the kids. It's a great movie, with a lot of important things to say, but it's in no way appropriate for most under the age of 10 (and in some cases 12). It's really unfortunate that there are so many toys and marketing tie-ins aimed at kids because it makes my 4 and 7 year olds want to see Batman.
*
Step Brothers is crude, profane, and hilarious. It's hit and miss, but when it's on, it's a gut-buster. However, I will never look at a set of drums the same way again.
*
The Barnstormers part 3 is a huge hit by any measure. Well, any measure other than winning. Even with a 6-10 season, the Stormers averaged nearly 10,000 fans a game. In the season finale, with nothing at stake except the outcome of the Mascot game, more than 10,500 showed. I only wish Andy hadn't embarrassed us all by drilling the 12 foot National Guard inflatable in the side of the head. The Barnstormers figured out the winning formula for fans: a fun time at an affordable price. Congratulations.
*
Last week we started my parents 50th anniversary celebration. Unfortunately, I'm not going to make it to 50, though I'm lucky to have found the person for which spending 50 years together would not be enough. Unlike my parents, I didn't get it right the first time. It not only makes me appreciate what I have, but I really respect those who made it work from a young age.
The anniversarypalooza began with great seats at a Neil Diamond concert, thanks to my friends Ryan and Heather Lund. If you look up "great people" in the dictionary, you'll see their picture. (Not true. I just looked it up. "Great people" is two words, and there's no picture. Sorry.) Neil Diamond, along with Johnny Cash and Elvis, sang the songs of my childhood. My mother always had one those guys blasting. Still does. Anyway, Neil is 67 but it was a great show. I'm not kidding. I promise not to give Iowa State a hard time for playing Sweet Caroline for at least one season.
*
Anniversarypalooza moves next to Rathbun Lake. Thanks Heather!
Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad. I love you.
Keith
*
Brett Favre. No one ever says "Brett" or "Favre", it's always "Brett Favre". Anyway, speaking of Brett Favre, I can't believe the Packers don't want Brett Favre. I know the 49ers didn't want Joe Montana, and the Yankees dumped Babe Ruth, but we're talking about the Packers and Brett Favre. Hard to picture one without the other. I don't blame Green Bay for growing tired of his shenanigans, but it's Brett Freaking Favre!
It really is a business.
*
Lolo Jones may race a horse at Prairie Meadows? If it's the 100 hurdles, I'm there. And my money is on Lolo.
*
The Iowa Chops gear is selling in a way the Stars never did. That doesn't stop the hate mail, though many admit it's growing on them. Some don't.
*
The new I-State football commercial is a winner. It's a long ways from one of the worst spots I've ever seen. Iowa State once had a lightning bolt hit an empty stadium. I'm not making that up. Nothing says, "I want to buy season tickets!" like no one at a game and severe weather.
*
I'm sure Carson Palmer is getting clobbered in Ohio for talking about how much he hates the Buckeyes, but I love a guy who really says what he thinks instead of what he thinks he should say. We'll get enough of the latter at the upcoming football media days.
*
40-0? That is unbelievable for a baseball team, especially one which played a tough schedule. I know Johnston got a break in the rained out game the Dragons likely would have lost to Marshalltown a few weeks ago, but 40 and 0 takes a little luck, along with a lot of skill. We won't see it again soon in 4-A.
*
I don't think Shawn Johnson fully realizes how much her life is going to change in three weeks if she wins the all-around gold. Overnight she will become one of the most recognized people in America. Get ready.
*
I still haven't seen The Dark Knight a second time, mainly because it's too dark and intense for the kids. It's a great movie, with a lot of important things to say, but it's in no way appropriate for most under the age of 10 (and in some cases 12). It's really unfortunate that there are so many toys and marketing tie-ins aimed at kids because it makes my 4 and 7 year olds want to see Batman.
*
Step Brothers is crude, profane, and hilarious. It's hit and miss, but when it's on, it's a gut-buster. However, I will never look at a set of drums the same way again.
*
The Barnstormers part 3 is a huge hit by any measure. Well, any measure other than winning. Even with a 6-10 season, the Stormers averaged nearly 10,000 fans a game. In the season finale, with nothing at stake except the outcome of the Mascot game, more than 10,500 showed. I only wish Andy hadn't embarrassed us all by drilling the 12 foot National Guard inflatable in the side of the head. The Barnstormers figured out the winning formula for fans: a fun time at an affordable price. Congratulations.
*
Last week we started my parents 50th anniversary celebration. Unfortunately, I'm not going to make it to 50, though I'm lucky to have found the person for which spending 50 years together would not be enough. Unlike my parents, I didn't get it right the first time. It not only makes me appreciate what I have, but I really respect those who made it work from a young age.
The anniversarypalooza began with great seats at a Neil Diamond concert, thanks to my friends Ryan and Heather Lund. If you look up "great people" in the dictionary, you'll see their picture. (Not true. I just looked it up. "Great people" is two words, and there's no picture. Sorry.) Neil Diamond, along with Johnny Cash and Elvis, sang the songs of my childhood. My mother always had one those guys blasting. Still does. Anyway, Neil is 67 but it was a great show. I'm not kidding. I promise not to give Iowa State a hard time for playing Sweet Caroline for at least one season.
*
Anniversarypalooza moves next to Rathbun Lake. Thanks Heather!
Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad. I love you.
Keith
Friday, July 25, 2008
Ferentz Fights Back
Kirk Ferentz did himself a lot of good at Big Ten Media Day. He was emotional, passionate, and at times, angry. He definitely was smart to not hide behind a lawyer or say he wishes he could comment, but can't.
The most interesting revelation, to me, was Ferentz saying he did not want to be in a meeting with the alleged victim, but went at the request of her family (the last part we already knew).
Ferentz saved his most heated comments for any suggestion he was involved in a cover-up. Clearly the man feels his character was attacked, and fought back. I would too.
I have always liked Ferentz. Some of his critics over the year have even labeled me a "Ferentz apologist". I don't know him well enough to vouch for his character, but I've always thought he had a lot.
However, it's fair for the media, or anyone, to question Ferentz's role in the U of I's internal sexual assault investigation. It's not fair to jump to conclusions having only heard one side, but Iowa invited this by mismanaging this crisis so badly, it brought back memories of ISU's bungling of the Larry Eustachy scandal.
Public opinion, predictably, is now swinging back toward Ferentz by many who doubted him. That's as simple as him speaking up---something the University, and Ferentz, should have done a long time ago, in the ways that they legally could without compromising the alleged victim's identity, or the case itself.
Ferentz did a lot of effective damage control, and won back the confidence of more than a few Hawkeye fans. There are still some questions of his judgment that are fair to ask. Among them:
Why did he immediately order two players to move into a crime scene? I don't think Ferentz purposely contaminated the room. I think it was more likely that he found out a room was empty, being used for things you don't want in the media guide, and tried to shift things back to the way they were supposed to be. But, we don't know. We do know it later hurt the DCI's collection of evidence. And why was that room empty in the first place? Chances are he had no idea.
We still really don't if Ferentz tried to persuade the alleged victim to go to police. Maybe he did, maybe he didn't, maybe he felt it wasn't his place and said nothing at all. We do know the mother said Iowa officials stressed keeping it "in house". Bad idea.
We do know the depositions paint an unflattering picture of Hawkeye football players beyond Satterfield and Everson, yet those players continued playing. Jevon Pugh even scored a game-winning touchdown a couple weeks after admitting to grabbing the alleged victim. Perhaps these players lied about their involvement to Ferentz, but later told police they behaved badly.
This whole case is a powder keg. It has brought out fiery emotions in people, sometimes without thinking it through. That's understandable, though regrettable. We all reacted to the mother's first letter. If you didn't, check your pulse.
It's important to point out that the questions I've had---and many others---had to do with the way the University of Iowa handled all of this. Abe Satterfield and Cedric Everson deserve, and will have, their day in court. None of what was discussed this week should have anything to do with whether they are ultimately found guilty or not guilty. It simply has to do with whether Iowa put the interests of the University in general, and the football program in particular, ahead of those of a student-athlete officials had reason to believe may have suffered through an unspeakable crime.
Ferentz lives in a fishbowl, so he's been called out repeatedly, while the alleged victim's coach has gone mostly unnoticed. Why? Well, for one, we can't name him/her, and even if we did, next to no one has heard of him/her. This coach, much more than Ferentz, had the responsibility of seeing that his/her student-athlete had all of her needs looked after. The alleged victim's mother says her daughter was abandoned by not only her coach, but her teammates, all while being taunted and teased by football players. Most inexplicable of all, she apparently continued to live a few doors down from one of her alleged attackers. Ferentz says he has no power when it comes to room assignments, but shouldn't someone, anyone, step up and shout until this sorry arrangement was righted? If they were unaware, it means they weren't checking on her.
President Sally Mason looks bad right now. Either she can't stay out of her own way, or she's getting bad advice. I know all of these people are smarter than me, which is why it's puzzling that they would do stupid things like withhold letters and documents from the Board of Regents.
The most important question of all hasn't changed: How in the world could Iowa have a policy in place that allows a department to investigate its own sexual assaults, despite the obvious conflict of interest, and just years after the Pierre Pierce debacle. It boggles the mind.
Of all the main players, Ferentz has the smallest part. However, there's no way he's taking this kind of heat if police hadn't cited 18 of his players in 16 months. Ferentz wants to draw a line in the sand beginning this past March, but that's not realistic. We all bring our baggage with us, even when its painful, and even when we really don't want to.
Many Iowa fans who defend Ferentz and the program publicly are privately embarrassed over all this nonsense. They should be. It makes us all look bad as Iowans, and anyone who enjoys it is sick.
It's always disappointing to see some fans of the rival school, in this case Iowa State, taking a position they would never take if it was there team under the microscope. It's nearly as sad to see some Hawk fans bury their heads in the sand and kill the messengers. It always goes like this, and both sides are guilty.
I don't think Ferentz started recruiting "bad kids". But I do think there's a culture problem in the Hawkeye football program. If athletes without troubled backgrounds are showing up and getting in serious trouble, especially Freshman, it's in large part because of a culture of entitlement. It doesn't make them any less responsible, but it needs addressing, and Ferentz was slow to respond, in part because many of the arrests prior to 2007 happened during ten win seasons. Does anyone honestly think this many people are calling for Ferentz's job---especially Hawkeye fans---if Iowa is coming off a Rose Bowl season? Don't kid yourself. Winning influences almost everything, which is a big part of all problems in college athletics.
I'm tired of all this. I'll bet you are too.
Keith
The most interesting revelation, to me, was Ferentz saying he did not want to be in a meeting with the alleged victim, but went at the request of her family (the last part we already knew).
Ferentz saved his most heated comments for any suggestion he was involved in a cover-up. Clearly the man feels his character was attacked, and fought back. I would too.
I have always liked Ferentz. Some of his critics over the year have even labeled me a "Ferentz apologist". I don't know him well enough to vouch for his character, but I've always thought he had a lot.
However, it's fair for the media, or anyone, to question Ferentz's role in the U of I's internal sexual assault investigation. It's not fair to jump to conclusions having only heard one side, but Iowa invited this by mismanaging this crisis so badly, it brought back memories of ISU's bungling of the Larry Eustachy scandal.
Public opinion, predictably, is now swinging back toward Ferentz by many who doubted him. That's as simple as him speaking up---something the University, and Ferentz, should have done a long time ago, in the ways that they legally could without compromising the alleged victim's identity, or the case itself.
Ferentz did a lot of effective damage control, and won back the confidence of more than a few Hawkeye fans. There are still some questions of his judgment that are fair to ask. Among them:
Why did he immediately order two players to move into a crime scene? I don't think Ferentz purposely contaminated the room. I think it was more likely that he found out a room was empty, being used for things you don't want in the media guide, and tried to shift things back to the way they were supposed to be. But, we don't know. We do know it later hurt the DCI's collection of evidence. And why was that room empty in the first place? Chances are he had no idea.
We still really don't if Ferentz tried to persuade the alleged victim to go to police. Maybe he did, maybe he didn't, maybe he felt it wasn't his place and said nothing at all. We do know the mother said Iowa officials stressed keeping it "in house". Bad idea.
We do know the depositions paint an unflattering picture of Hawkeye football players beyond Satterfield and Everson, yet those players continued playing. Jevon Pugh even scored a game-winning touchdown a couple weeks after admitting to grabbing the alleged victim. Perhaps these players lied about their involvement to Ferentz, but later told police they behaved badly.
This whole case is a powder keg. It has brought out fiery emotions in people, sometimes without thinking it through. That's understandable, though regrettable. We all reacted to the mother's first letter. If you didn't, check your pulse.
It's important to point out that the questions I've had---and many others---had to do with the way the University of Iowa handled all of this. Abe Satterfield and Cedric Everson deserve, and will have, their day in court. None of what was discussed this week should have anything to do with whether they are ultimately found guilty or not guilty. It simply has to do with whether Iowa put the interests of the University in general, and the football program in particular, ahead of those of a student-athlete officials had reason to believe may have suffered through an unspeakable crime.
Ferentz lives in a fishbowl, so he's been called out repeatedly, while the alleged victim's coach has gone mostly unnoticed. Why? Well, for one, we can't name him/her, and even if we did, next to no one has heard of him/her. This coach, much more than Ferentz, had the responsibility of seeing that his/her student-athlete had all of her needs looked after. The alleged victim's mother says her daughter was abandoned by not only her coach, but her teammates, all while being taunted and teased by football players. Most inexplicable of all, she apparently continued to live a few doors down from one of her alleged attackers. Ferentz says he has no power when it comes to room assignments, but shouldn't someone, anyone, step up and shout until this sorry arrangement was righted? If they were unaware, it means they weren't checking on her.
President Sally Mason looks bad right now. Either she can't stay out of her own way, or she's getting bad advice. I know all of these people are smarter than me, which is why it's puzzling that they would do stupid things like withhold letters and documents from the Board of Regents.
The most important question of all hasn't changed: How in the world could Iowa have a policy in place that allows a department to investigate its own sexual assaults, despite the obvious conflict of interest, and just years after the Pierre Pierce debacle. It boggles the mind.
Of all the main players, Ferentz has the smallest part. However, there's no way he's taking this kind of heat if police hadn't cited 18 of his players in 16 months. Ferentz wants to draw a line in the sand beginning this past March, but that's not realistic. We all bring our baggage with us, even when its painful, and even when we really don't want to.
Many Iowa fans who defend Ferentz and the program publicly are privately embarrassed over all this nonsense. They should be. It makes us all look bad as Iowans, and anyone who enjoys it is sick.
It's always disappointing to see some fans of the rival school, in this case Iowa State, taking a position they would never take if it was there team under the microscope. It's nearly as sad to see some Hawk fans bury their heads in the sand and kill the messengers. It always goes like this, and both sides are guilty.
I don't think Ferentz started recruiting "bad kids". But I do think there's a culture problem in the Hawkeye football program. If athletes without troubled backgrounds are showing up and getting in serious trouble, especially Freshman, it's in large part because of a culture of entitlement. It doesn't make them any less responsible, but it needs addressing, and Ferentz was slow to respond, in part because many of the arrests prior to 2007 happened during ten win seasons. Does anyone honestly think this many people are calling for Ferentz's job---especially Hawkeye fans---if Iowa is coming off a Rose Bowl season? Don't kid yourself. Winning influences almost everything, which is a big part of all problems in college athletics.
I'm tired of all this. I'll bet you are too.
Keith
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
What in the world is going on at the U of I?
The U of I's handling of an alleged sexual assault deserves the tough questions being asked. There are valid reasons the Board of Regents re-opened its investigation.
Shawn Terrell and Sonya Heitshusen investigated this story for months, beginning in late October. They were told several things off the record that we couldn't confirm on the record. We thought those details wouldn't see the light of day unless the case reached trial. The mother's letter changed much of that.
(addendum: Sonya continued working sources diligently, just as the Iowa City Press Citizen did. Often times sources tell you something off the record because they're trying to steer you in a direction, but without being accountable for that information. When no one will go on the record, as was the case despite Sonya's repeated requests, you are stuck. Props to the Press Citizen for breaking through, and to Sonya and Shawn for continuing to ask tough questions that were not popular at the U of I.)
There were many things about the way Iowa handled this that troubled me long before reading the letter. However, after seeing the mother's pain and frustration leap off the page, it's no wonder so many people feel concern, if not outrage.
For the most part, we have only heard from one side. We must remember that, especially now as emotions run high. However, there are some details that cannot be explained away, unless the mother and father of the alleged victim are making things up, and I know of no one who believes that.
I won't go over the entire list here. I think Andy Fales did a good job of asking the relevant questions in this week's "What's Bugging Andy?".
Among the apparent inexplicable details: How could the alleged victim be forced to live a few doors down from her attacker (and his girlfriend)?
Why wasn't the alleged victim immediately assigned an advocate? President Mason's explanation that the alleged victim's father was her advocate defies belief. Is she serious? Does anyone think this sounds like a good idea? President Mason is not off to a good start at Iowa when it comes to leadership.
Why did the University hold back the mother's letters from the Regents? It hurts credibility.
Why did Iowa athletic officials reportedly suggest the student let the University keep it in house and do its own investigation? If you don't understand the influence the people in that room would have over a young student-athlete, you likely haven't played sports.
Why didn't the alleged victim's coach give her and her family more help and guidance? Why did the mother feel no one was in charge?
Did anyone at Iowa actually think removing the suspects from the active football roster was enough to satisfy the alleged victim?
Why was an assigned football dorm room empty? And why did Kirk Ferentz send two players in there to live after he knew a serious crime allegedly took place there? I suspect it was just questionable judgment, and there's a lot of that going around.
Sadly, I could go on. And on.
Most unfathomable of all is how something could be mismanaged this poorly just a few years after the Pierre Pierce debacle. What kind of policies were put in place that allowed a department to conduct its own internal investigation despite the obvious conflict of interest? Can a University administrator actually hear a rape allegation and not be required to tell the police?
I don't think any of the people being called into question obstructed justice or committed a crime, but they appear guilty of bad judgment. I don't doubt University officials "followed protocol" as Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta told Sonya three times. But even if they technically followed the rules, shouldn't we expect more from our leaders? If you just heard from a devastated Iowa student who said she walked into a room a virgin and walked out covered in blood after being raped, wouldn't you do everything in your power to get the police involved immediately?
It's also fair to ask that after all those embarrassing arrests, disappointing losses, and widely circulated Facebook pictures, if the climate was right for otherwise smart and reputable people to act too much in their own interests instead of those of a student-athlete they had reason to suspect suffered a terrible rape. Perhaps they couldn't even think straight. The pressure of big time, big money college athletics has a way of doing that.
When we finally are able to hear the University of Iowa's side, I believe the administration will have well thought out explanations for much of what happened. It certainly won't appear so one-sided. It's hard to imagine it will be enough.
I know Ferentz, to his credit, removed the players from the team in timely fashion. I realize the alleged victim could have gone to the police, even if urged otherwise. I know the accused are innocent until proven guilty. But none of that gets to the root of what keeps swirling around in my mind.
If I had a daughter, or sister, at the University of Iowa, would I be satisfied that the leaders in this case did everything they could to make a terrible situation as tolerable as possible? For now, the answer is a resounding no.
Shawn Terrell and Sonya Heitshusen investigated this story for months, beginning in late October. They were told several things off the record that we couldn't confirm on the record. We thought those details wouldn't see the light of day unless the case reached trial. The mother's letter changed much of that.
(addendum: Sonya continued working sources diligently, just as the Iowa City Press Citizen did. Often times sources tell you something off the record because they're trying to steer you in a direction, but without being accountable for that information. When no one will go on the record, as was the case despite Sonya's repeated requests, you are stuck. Props to the Press Citizen for breaking through, and to Sonya and Shawn for continuing to ask tough questions that were not popular at the U of I.)
There were many things about the way Iowa handled this that troubled me long before reading the letter. However, after seeing the mother's pain and frustration leap off the page, it's no wonder so many people feel concern, if not outrage.
For the most part, we have only heard from one side. We must remember that, especially now as emotions run high. However, there are some details that cannot be explained away, unless the mother and father of the alleged victim are making things up, and I know of no one who believes that.
I won't go over the entire list here. I think Andy Fales did a good job of asking the relevant questions in this week's "What's Bugging Andy?".
Among the apparent inexplicable details: How could the alleged victim be forced to live a few doors down from her attacker (and his girlfriend)?
Why wasn't the alleged victim immediately assigned an advocate? President Mason's explanation that the alleged victim's father was her advocate defies belief. Is she serious? Does anyone think this sounds like a good idea? President Mason is not off to a good start at Iowa when it comes to leadership.
Why did the University hold back the mother's letters from the Regents? It hurts credibility.
Why did Iowa athletic officials reportedly suggest the student let the University keep it in house and do its own investigation? If you don't understand the influence the people in that room would have over a young student-athlete, you likely haven't played sports.
Why didn't the alleged victim's coach give her and her family more help and guidance? Why did the mother feel no one was in charge?
Did anyone at Iowa actually think removing the suspects from the active football roster was enough to satisfy the alleged victim?
Why was an assigned football dorm room empty? And why did Kirk Ferentz send two players in there to live after he knew a serious crime allegedly took place there? I suspect it was just questionable judgment, and there's a lot of that going around.
Sadly, I could go on. And on.
Most unfathomable of all is how something could be mismanaged this poorly just a few years after the Pierre Pierce debacle. What kind of policies were put in place that allowed a department to conduct its own internal investigation despite the obvious conflict of interest? Can a University administrator actually hear a rape allegation and not be required to tell the police?
I don't think any of the people being called into question obstructed justice or committed a crime, but they appear guilty of bad judgment. I don't doubt University officials "followed protocol" as Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta told Sonya three times. But even if they technically followed the rules, shouldn't we expect more from our leaders? If you just heard from a devastated Iowa student who said she walked into a room a virgin and walked out covered in blood after being raped, wouldn't you do everything in your power to get the police involved immediately?
It's also fair to ask that after all those embarrassing arrests, disappointing losses, and widely circulated Facebook pictures, if the climate was right for otherwise smart and reputable people to act too much in their own interests instead of those of a student-athlete they had reason to suspect suffered a terrible rape. Perhaps they couldn't even think straight. The pressure of big time, big money college athletics has a way of doing that.
When we finally are able to hear the University of Iowa's side, I believe the administration will have well thought out explanations for much of what happened. It certainly won't appear so one-sided. It's hard to imagine it will be enough.
I know Ferentz, to his credit, removed the players from the team in timely fashion. I realize the alleged victim could have gone to the police, even if urged otherwise. I know the accused are innocent until proven guilty. But none of that gets to the root of what keeps swirling around in my mind.
If I had a daughter, or sister, at the University of Iowa, would I be satisfied that the leaders in this case did everything they could to make a terrible situation as tolerable as possible? For now, the answer is a resounding no.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Batman: The Dark Knight
Andy, Shawn, Chris, and I all went to see the midnight showing of the Dark Knight. I chose Cobblestone Theaters in Urbandale. It's kind of the forgotten theater these days, so I figured we'd easily get seats.
We did get in---barely. The Cobblestone had Batman playing on six theaters at midnight and they were all full! Can you imagine how much money this movie is going to make. It'll easily pass $100 million this weekend alone.
After Chris and I bought a $25 "family combo", because Andy had to have a pint of that orange grease that is somehow called "butter" on his popcorn, and I didn't want any motor oil because I want to live to see 50, we settled in for 25 minutes of commercials and previews. This is the apparent price of buying a$6 ticket, instead of an $8 ticket. (Shawn never took one sip---not one---of the $5 Diet Coke I bought him. It's Coke Zero or bust for that guy.)
Once the midnight movie, which should have been called a 12:26 a.m. movie, started we were spellbound. The Dark Knight is the best superhero movie I've ever seen, and easily the best movie of the year so far, regardless of genre. I really shouldn't even throw the superhero label on it, because there's nothing cartoonish about this Batman. It's dark, disturbing, and plausible. The themes are thought-provoking, relevant topics ripped from today's headlines: terrorism, spying, fear mongering, mob mentality, citizen desperation, one man's power---to name a few.
Christian Bale again proves he's the best Bruce Wayne and Batman ever. Gary Oldman, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, and Aaron Eckhart all offer terrific support, and I thought Maggie Gyllenhaal improved on Katie Holmes as Rachel. Andy thinks Gyllenhaal is nowhere near hot enough to land the affections of Batman. (Yes, guys really talk about stuff like this on the way out of a movie.) I think she's plenty pretty, and think the whole point is Bruce Wayne always surrounds himself with supermodels, but longs for something more substantial.
I'm burying the lead. Heath Ledger is as good as advertised---better even. You can't take your eyes off him, and not because he died at the end of filming. Ledger gives one of the great supporting performances ever. His Joker is so twisted, menacing, and diabolical that you know he's killing for the fun of it. If Ledger doesn't win the Academy Award for supporting actor, I'll devote an entire Murphy's Law column to the career acting accomplishments of Pauly Shore.
The Dark Knight is long---2 1/2 hours---but not too long. It's so good that Andy and Chris kept their inappropriate, loud talking to under 15 seconds for the entire 150 minutes. That's high praise.
Can't wait to see Batman on the Science Center of Iowa's Imax screen. The grade is A.
(Note to parents: This movie is definitely not for small children, and I'd say you should check it our first for yourself before you take any child under 10. As you know, it often depends on the kid's personality; I have one boy who will love Dark Knight, and one who would have nightmares for weeks.)
We did get in---barely. The Cobblestone had Batman playing on six theaters at midnight and they were all full! Can you imagine how much money this movie is going to make. It'll easily pass $100 million this weekend alone.
After Chris and I bought a $25 "family combo", because Andy had to have a pint of that orange grease that is somehow called "butter" on his popcorn, and I didn't want any motor oil because I want to live to see 50, we settled in for 25 minutes of commercials and previews. This is the apparent price of buying a$6 ticket, instead of an $8 ticket. (Shawn never took one sip---not one---of the $5 Diet Coke I bought him. It's Coke Zero or bust for that guy.)
Once the midnight movie, which should have been called a 12:26 a.m. movie, started we were spellbound. The Dark Knight is the best superhero movie I've ever seen, and easily the best movie of the year so far, regardless of genre. I really shouldn't even throw the superhero label on it, because there's nothing cartoonish about this Batman. It's dark, disturbing, and plausible. The themes are thought-provoking, relevant topics ripped from today's headlines: terrorism, spying, fear mongering, mob mentality, citizen desperation, one man's power---to name a few.
Christian Bale again proves he's the best Bruce Wayne and Batman ever. Gary Oldman, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, and Aaron Eckhart all offer terrific support, and I thought Maggie Gyllenhaal improved on Katie Holmes as Rachel. Andy thinks Gyllenhaal is nowhere near hot enough to land the affections of Batman. (Yes, guys really talk about stuff like this on the way out of a movie.) I think she's plenty pretty, and think the whole point is Bruce Wayne always surrounds himself with supermodels, but longs for something more substantial.
I'm burying the lead. Heath Ledger is as good as advertised---better even. You can't take your eyes off him, and not because he died at the end of filming. Ledger gives one of the great supporting performances ever. His Joker is so twisted, menacing, and diabolical that you know he's killing for the fun of it. If Ledger doesn't win the Academy Award for supporting actor, I'll devote an entire Murphy's Law column to the career acting accomplishments of Pauly Shore.
The Dark Knight is long---2 1/2 hours---but not too long. It's so good that Andy and Chris kept their inappropriate, loud talking to under 15 seconds for the entire 150 minutes. That's high praise.
Can't wait to see Batman on the Science Center of Iowa's Imax screen. The grade is A.
(Note to parents: This movie is definitely not for small children, and I'd say you should check it our first for yourself before you take any child under 10. As you know, it often depends on the kid's personality; I have one boy who will love Dark Knight, and one who would have nightmares for weeks.)
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Run Lolo Run
Lolo Jones is the real deal. She's just as nice, charismatic, and energetic in person as she is on TV. I'd be remiss if I didn't also disclose she's just as pretty--- even with a headband, even with no make-up, even after no sleep, even with jet lag.
*
It was nice to see more than 1,500 people show up at Hy-Vee Hall for Monday's Olympic Send-Off. Lolo and Shawn Johnson were blown away by the overflow crowd. I was relieved. I had the honor of being the emcee and assisted Courtney Greene (with the Governor's office) on the planning; neither of us had any idea what kind of crowd would show. To our relief, it exceeded everybody's expectations. We appreciate all the people, including the media, showing support.
*
Shawn Johnson is sweet, somewhat shy, and surprisingly humble. People sometimes forget she's only 16. Think back to when you were 16. I was ---how can I put this?---an idiot. Shawn handles her fishbowl life well, and her parents and coach do a good job of making her life as normal as possible. It's about to get crazier.
*
One of the thrills for me behind the scenes was seeing Shawn and Lolo meet for the first time. Both have become fans of the other. Shawn told me she can't believe how fast Lolo can run over those hurdles (who can), and Lolo said she has no idea how Shawn does those gravity-defying routines. Shawn told me during the ceremony she's not sure how she does it either.
*
My favorite moment was when Lolo surprised the single mother of two with a check for $12,000. (Renee Trout lost her Cedar Rapids home to flooding.) It wasn't that long ago Lolo was near broke, and she still needs her prize money, but she found someone who needs it more. First class.
*
My favorite question at the post-rally news conference. "Lolo, are you looking forward to eating Chinese food?" Yes, it was Andy Fales.
*
My ears are still ringing from the little girl screams. I have all boys, so I didn't realize girls could be so LOUD. They see Shawn Johnson, and the sirens start blaring. Wow.
*
I'm watching the All-Star game as I type this. I loved the introductions with the Hall of Famers, but I was disappointed I didn't see my all time favorite, Johnny Bench.
*
Did the Cubs bring their entire roster to Yankee Stadium?
*
There are few things in sports stupider than this game deciding who gets home field advantage in the World Series.
*
Who thought it was a good idea to have Sheryl Crow sing our National Anthem? She's fine with breezy songs but doesn't have the pipes for the Star Spangled Banner. Next time try Simon Estes.
*
Did you see Josh Hamilton's show? To quote Tommy Boy, "that was...AWESOME."
*
Erin Kiernan's blog talked me into the Bucket List, and to my surprise, I really enjoyed it. I thought it would be too much like an Oprah, but it was funny, inspiring, and thought-provoking. It also proved one of the fundamental truths of entertainment: Morgan Freeman improves anything he's in.
*
Hellboy 2 is a good comic come to life. It's like the Star Wars cantina scene on steroids. I can't believe some of what I saw on screen. I go to movies like this for my kids, but I enjoyed Ron Pearlman as the big red guy. Hellboy 2 also has one of the best scenes of the year thanks, in part, to Barry Manilow. Go figure.
*
Wanted is like Fight Club crossed with Bourne Supremacy. Ultra violent and never a dull moment. It's more hyper than lunch at a McDonald's playland. Louder too. But not as loud as the girl screams at a Shawn Johnson rally.
*
This Brett Favre saga is an absolute mess. The Packers are clearly tired of Favre's yearly indecision, and it has grown way past the point of tired, but they have only two choices: start him or release him. I think they hope he'll just stay retired. He won't.
*
Kirk Ferentz is on many college football "hot seat" lists. Hard to believe after the way things were going five years ago, but when you combine Kirk's salary, with Iowa's recent record, and all the arrests, we shouldn't be surprised. However, I personally don't think Ferentz actually is on a hot seat.
*
Iowa Chops grew on some people. The poll results moved in a more favorable direction for the new team all weekend.
*
Andy and I had a good time tweaking the Quad Cities. The Barnstormers asked us to do it. It was all in good fun, and way over the top, so it's surprising that a few of the visitors were actually offended. If you watched that jumbotron and took it seriously, you need to relax. Stat.
*
6th inning now, and I actually have to care about the outcome. I'm one of many Cubs fans thinking ahead. That's probably not smart given how the past 100 years worked out.
*
Congratulations to all our friends over at KXNO radio. KXNO is one of six finalists for the Marconi award, which goes to the country's best sports radio station. KXNO is up against some major market stations, which is quite a compliment.
*
I still don't care about A-Rod and Madonna, and I'm approaching Favre fatigue.
*
Josh Groban just sang God Bless America. Next time, let him do the Anthem too.
Go NL,
Keith
*
It was nice to see more than 1,500 people show up at Hy-Vee Hall for Monday's Olympic Send-Off. Lolo and Shawn Johnson were blown away by the overflow crowd. I was relieved. I had the honor of being the emcee and assisted Courtney Greene (with the Governor's office) on the planning; neither of us had any idea what kind of crowd would show. To our relief, it exceeded everybody's expectations. We appreciate all the people, including the media, showing support.
*
Shawn Johnson is sweet, somewhat shy, and surprisingly humble. People sometimes forget she's only 16. Think back to when you were 16. I was ---how can I put this?---an idiot. Shawn handles her fishbowl life well, and her parents and coach do a good job of making her life as normal as possible. It's about to get crazier.
*
One of the thrills for me behind the scenes was seeing Shawn and Lolo meet for the first time. Both have become fans of the other. Shawn told me she can't believe how fast Lolo can run over those hurdles (who can), and Lolo said she has no idea how Shawn does those gravity-defying routines. Shawn told me during the ceremony she's not sure how she does it either.
*
My favorite moment was when Lolo surprised the single mother of two with a check for $12,000. (Renee Trout lost her Cedar Rapids home to flooding.) It wasn't that long ago Lolo was near broke, and she still needs her prize money, but she found someone who needs it more. First class.
*
My favorite question at the post-rally news conference. "Lolo, are you looking forward to eating Chinese food?" Yes, it was Andy Fales.
*
My ears are still ringing from the little girl screams. I have all boys, so I didn't realize girls could be so LOUD. They see Shawn Johnson, and the sirens start blaring. Wow.
*
I'm watching the All-Star game as I type this. I loved the introductions with the Hall of Famers, but I was disappointed I didn't see my all time favorite, Johnny Bench.
*
Did the Cubs bring their entire roster to Yankee Stadium?
*
There are few things in sports stupider than this game deciding who gets home field advantage in the World Series.
*
Who thought it was a good idea to have Sheryl Crow sing our National Anthem? She's fine with breezy songs but doesn't have the pipes for the Star Spangled Banner. Next time try Simon Estes.
*
Did you see Josh Hamilton's show? To quote Tommy Boy, "that was...AWESOME."
*
Erin Kiernan's blog talked me into the Bucket List, and to my surprise, I really enjoyed it. I thought it would be too much like an Oprah, but it was funny, inspiring, and thought-provoking. It also proved one of the fundamental truths of entertainment: Morgan Freeman improves anything he's in.
*
Hellboy 2 is a good comic come to life. It's like the Star Wars cantina scene on steroids. I can't believe some of what I saw on screen. I go to movies like this for my kids, but I enjoyed Ron Pearlman as the big red guy. Hellboy 2 also has one of the best scenes of the year thanks, in part, to Barry Manilow. Go figure.
*
Wanted is like Fight Club crossed with Bourne Supremacy. Ultra violent and never a dull moment. It's more hyper than lunch at a McDonald's playland. Louder too. But not as loud as the girl screams at a Shawn Johnson rally.
*
This Brett Favre saga is an absolute mess. The Packers are clearly tired of Favre's yearly indecision, and it has grown way past the point of tired, but they have only two choices: start him or release him. I think they hope he'll just stay retired. He won't.
*
Kirk Ferentz is on many college football "hot seat" lists. Hard to believe after the way things were going five years ago, but when you combine Kirk's salary, with Iowa's recent record, and all the arrests, we shouldn't be surprised. However, I personally don't think Ferentz actually is on a hot seat.
*
Iowa Chops grew on some people. The poll results moved in a more favorable direction for the new team all weekend.
*
Andy and I had a good time tweaking the Quad Cities. The Barnstormers asked us to do it. It was all in good fun, and way over the top, so it's surprising that a few of the visitors were actually offended. If you watched that jumbotron and took it seriously, you need to relax. Stat.
*
6th inning now, and I actually have to care about the outcome. I'm one of many Cubs fans thinking ahead. That's probably not smart given how the past 100 years worked out.
*
Congratulations to all our friends over at KXNO radio. KXNO is one of six finalists for the Marconi award, which goes to the country's best sports radio station. KXNO is up against some major market stations, which is quite a compliment.
*
I still don't care about A-Rod and Madonna, and I'm approaching Favre fatigue.
*
Josh Groban just sang God Bless America. Next time, let him do the Anthem too.
Go NL,
Keith
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Chop or Flop?
So it is indeed... the Iowa Chops. It's interesting, and not necessarily positive, that the naming of the team has brought, by far, the most interest in Des Moines' AHL team. You knew once the organization revealed the name, it would be a collective yawn, like it was for the Stars (or would be for the Ducks), or you'd have half the people hating, slamming, and scoffing. Guess which happened? I've heard from many people who absolutely love Iowa Chops, and others who feel a lot like the Des Moines Register's Sean Keeler. Sean blogs, "Terrible. Simply terrible. Boring and tasteless in one foul swoop." I disagree, but I love that Sean brings it strong.
*
As many of you know, I pushed hard for Iowa Chops on SoundOff (which is an opinion show), so I've heard some praise, and I've taken some lumps. I do know the organization paid attention to all the feedback on our show, and the fact Iowa Chops won two separate viewer polls. It's a fair point that the host influences the votes of some people, but Andy and I are paid to give our opinions, and we do. That won't change.
*
I love the name Iowa Chops. It's unique, it's strong, and it's local. Although the world famous Iowa pork chop figured in my affection for the name, I did not have a wild boar in mind for a logo. I was picturing a hockey stick making a chop motion or something not involving a pig, but that pig is what a lot of people love. The merchandise was selling like crazy at the Chop Shop. (Yes, the puns could get tiresome quickly.)
*
Shawn Johnson and Lolo Jones represent Iowa about as well as we could possibly hope. They deserve a huge sendoff, and we're going to try and give it to them Monday at noon at the Iowa Events Center. It's free, and it should be a lot of fun. The Isisirettes will start rocking the house around 11:45 a.m., videos will play, Iowa icon Simon Estes will sing the national anthem, and both Lolo and Shawn will speak. I'm honored the Governor's office asked me to help put the event together and to emcee. I didn't talk to a single person who paused. It's just been, "What can I do?". I think that's a reflection of how proud people are of Shawn and Lolo---not just for their amazing talent, but for their character. Monday at noon. Please help spread the word.
*
Speaking of Iowa icons, Andy Fales' story on Bob Feller was fantastic. You can watch it on the whotv.com video player. Feller had a baseball career only a handful of pitchers can match, yet he's most proud of his military service. Nearly 90 years old, and still saying exactly what he thinks.
*
Nile Kinnick would have been 90 Wednesday. Hard to believe Kinnick's been dead for nearly 70 years, and yet he and Feller were born the same year (1918).
*
Chris Hassel appears on TV several times a week, yet he sent Shawn and me a giddy text message because when Geovany Soto homered Tuesday night, Chris could kind of be seen along with hundreds of other bleacher bums at Wrigley Field. I can't explain it, but I can relate. I get excited if you can tell it's my bald spot in a newspaper picture of some athlete being interviewed. I'd get a toupee but then I couldn't pick myself out.
Keith
,
*
As many of you know, I pushed hard for Iowa Chops on SoundOff (which is an opinion show), so I've heard some praise, and I've taken some lumps. I do know the organization paid attention to all the feedback on our show, and the fact Iowa Chops won two separate viewer polls. It's a fair point that the host influences the votes of some people, but Andy and I are paid to give our opinions, and we do. That won't change.
*
I love the name Iowa Chops. It's unique, it's strong, and it's local. Although the world famous Iowa pork chop figured in my affection for the name, I did not have a wild boar in mind for a logo. I was picturing a hockey stick making a chop motion or something not involving a pig, but that pig is what a lot of people love. The merchandise was selling like crazy at the Chop Shop. (Yes, the puns could get tiresome quickly.)
*
Shawn Johnson and Lolo Jones represent Iowa about as well as we could possibly hope. They deserve a huge sendoff, and we're going to try and give it to them Monday at noon at the Iowa Events Center. It's free, and it should be a lot of fun. The Isisirettes will start rocking the house around 11:45 a.m., videos will play, Iowa icon Simon Estes will sing the national anthem, and both Lolo and Shawn will speak. I'm honored the Governor's office asked me to help put the event together and to emcee. I didn't talk to a single person who paused. It's just been, "What can I do?". I think that's a reflection of how proud people are of Shawn and Lolo---not just for their amazing talent, but for their character. Monday at noon. Please help spread the word.
*
Speaking of Iowa icons, Andy Fales' story on Bob Feller was fantastic. You can watch it on the whotv.com video player. Feller had a baseball career only a handful of pitchers can match, yet he's most proud of his military service. Nearly 90 years old, and still saying exactly what he thinks.
*
Nile Kinnick would have been 90 Wednesday. Hard to believe Kinnick's been dead for nearly 70 years, and yet he and Feller were born the same year (1918).
*
Chris Hassel appears on TV several times a week, yet he sent Shawn and me a giddy text message because when Geovany Soto homered Tuesday night, Chris could kind of be seen along with hundreds of other bleacher bums at Wrigley Field. I can't explain it, but I can relate. I get excited if you can tell it's my bald spot in a newspaper picture of some athlete being interviewed. I'd get a toupee but then I couldn't pick myself out.
Keith
,
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Let it be Iowa Chops.
*
The team formerly known as the Iowa Stars will announce its new name Wednesday at 2 p.m. in Wells Fargo Arena. You're invited. Those of you who read this blog, or watch SoundOff, know I've pushed Iowa Chops for months. You'll never find a name everyone loves, but after first floating Chops out there, it easily won our online vote (I only voted 7 times). Iowa Chops works on several levels including, most importantly, the unique local level. Merchandise would sell, not to mention pork chops, and it wouldn't take fans long to invent an Iowa Chop-chant. I also expect you'd have a built in corporate sponsor.
*
At one time, the Stars organization settled on Iowa Thunder, but since then the Anaheim Ducks became Iowa's AHL affiliate, and they shook up the front office. Let's hope they also shook themselves and listened to the fans: Chops, not Thunder. (If it is Thunder, I don't mind it, but Andy will go nuts. He hates Thunder. Then again, while I was pushing "Chops", he was lobbying for "Corn Dawgs". If it's Corn Dawgs, or Corndogs, I may cry.) Give us your pick in the whotv.com poll.
*
Along with the new identity, Iowa's AHL organization will announce a dramatic reduction in ticket prices. I hear prices are nearly chopped in half. That's key, though it will put pressure on the organization to sell twice as many tickets. If they can't, the AHL shouldn't be here anyway.
*
Chris Hassel just sent me a text message from Wrigley Field: "HARDEN TRADE WINS WORLD SERIES...ON PAPER." Yes, now if the Cubs can just find a way to play it on paper, the drought finally ends.
*
Good job by the Cubs answering the Brewers addition of CC Sabathia. I know Jim Hendry says it wasn't a response to Milwaukee, but it was, and it's a good one---if Harden stays healthy. He's no Prior, but he's no Maddux either.
*
Great job out of Kurt Warner coming back to his hometown and helping out. I know it's part PR, but Kurt has enough history helping out to know his heart's really in it.
*
Hawkeye wrestling assistant coach Wes Hand steps down at Iowa to "pursue other interests". That's something you don't often see after a team wins the national championship.
*
Sorry I'm so short (insert 5'10" joke here). I'll return in 24 hours or your money back.
*
Now back to Shane from Marshalltown and Anonymous...
Keith
The team formerly known as the Iowa Stars will announce its new name Wednesday at 2 p.m. in Wells Fargo Arena. You're invited. Those of you who read this blog, or watch SoundOff, know I've pushed Iowa Chops for months. You'll never find a name everyone loves, but after first floating Chops out there, it easily won our online vote (I only voted 7 times). Iowa Chops works on several levels including, most importantly, the unique local level. Merchandise would sell, not to mention pork chops, and it wouldn't take fans long to invent an Iowa Chop-chant. I also expect you'd have a built in corporate sponsor.
*
At one time, the Stars organization settled on Iowa Thunder, but since then the Anaheim Ducks became Iowa's AHL affiliate, and they shook up the front office. Let's hope they also shook themselves and listened to the fans: Chops, not Thunder. (If it is Thunder, I don't mind it, but Andy will go nuts. He hates Thunder. Then again, while I was pushing "Chops", he was lobbying for "Corn Dawgs". If it's Corn Dawgs, or Corndogs, I may cry.) Give us your pick in the whotv.com poll.
*
Along with the new identity, Iowa's AHL organization will announce a dramatic reduction in ticket prices. I hear prices are nearly chopped in half. That's key, though it will put pressure on the organization to sell twice as many tickets. If they can't, the AHL shouldn't be here anyway.
*
Chris Hassel just sent me a text message from Wrigley Field: "HARDEN TRADE WINS WORLD SERIES...ON PAPER." Yes, now if the Cubs can just find a way to play it on paper, the drought finally ends.
*
Good job by the Cubs answering the Brewers addition of CC Sabathia. I know Jim Hendry says it wasn't a response to Milwaukee, but it was, and it's a good one---if Harden stays healthy. He's no Prior, but he's no Maddux either.
*
Great job out of Kurt Warner coming back to his hometown and helping out. I know it's part PR, but Kurt has enough history helping out to know his heart's really in it.
*
Hawkeye wrestling assistant coach Wes Hand steps down at Iowa to "pursue other interests". That's something you don't often see after a team wins the national championship.
*
Sorry I'm so short (insert 5'10" joke here). I'll return in 24 hours or your money back.
*
Now back to Shane from Marshalltown and Anonymous...
Keith
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Scattershots for 4th of July weekend
*
Who do you have in the Big Ten Network vs. Mediacom cage match? I'm going with the customer because I think we'll see a settlement by football season. We better... The Hawkeyes first three games are on the BTN, and that includes the Big Game: Iowa State at Iowa.
*
Speaking of Iowa-Iowa State (or is it Iowa State-Iowa?), we're cranking up RVTV again. Don't say anything to Andy if you see him. We still haven't told him, and one of his conditions of returning, actually his only condition, was no RVTV. I don't know what his problem is. He's the one who eats all the Steak-N-Shake.
*
Good to hear Marc Hansen filling in for Ken Miller on KXNO. I still read Marc frequently in the Des Moines Register, but miss his thoughts on sports (though he seems to write about his old world every chance he gets). Marc's level-headed observations are always welcome. It's an increasingly rare gift to see or hear people making their points without feeling that person has an agenda or a pre-conceived viewpoint. I think this is why the loss of Tim Russert crushed so many people.
*
Speaking of Russert, John Bachman tells me the guy who hired Russert for Meet the Press, Michael Gartner, has an idea for Russert's successor: Bob Costas. After it sinks in, you realize it's an inspired choice. However, I think NBC should keep Tom Brokaw in the chair until he returns to fly-fishing.
*
Cubs fanatic J.T. the Nutt loaned me a "docu-comedy" called Chasing October. Heather Burnside and I watched it the other night, and if you're a Cubs fan, you have to see it. A few scenes are obviously staged---kind of reminded me of our SoundOff bad actors club---but the joy and heartbreak of following the Cubbies really comes through. Warning: you will have to suffer through that fateful NLCS night in 2003 against the Florida Freaking Marlins. This will be Andy's favorite part of the movie (like he'd watch it).
*
WALL-E is getting the best movie reviews of the year, and some of the most glowing endorsements for an animated film ever. That's why I feel a little guilty that I didn't like it more. I thought it was good, but not great. I certainly don't want to see it again, and there are many animated films I enjoyed more (Toy Story, The Incredibles, Cars, Monsters Inc., to name a few). B- for me, which is probably the lowest rating for this movie in North America.
*
A-Rod & Madonna? I just don't care. I'm tired of both.
*
Speaking of things I'm tired of, how 'bout Brett Favre's annual dance with retirement. Back in March when Favre retired, I finished our coverage by saying, "No word when Farve will first announce he's having second thoughts." That doesn't make me Nostradamus, or even Miss Clio. This was predictable, but Favre is right to return if he's not sure he's done. A few athletes left too soon, while many more stayed too long. It's hard to get it just right, but it's a short window. If Favre wants to play, he should play. He's still got game, he's fun to watch, and father time waits for no man. Except Bachman.
*
I'm happy to report Shawn Terrell did return. Many of you were concerned he would stay on the road with Pearl Jam, but two things brought Shawn back: 1) the need for money. 2) college football season.
*
Hey Jason Giambi, my high school Senior picture called and it wants the mustache back.
*
The team formerly known as the Iowa Stars will announce their new nickname Wednesday. I heard a few months ago it would be Iowa Thunder, but I was later assured nothing had been decided. I hope that's true. Fans really wanted a say in this, and Thunder didn't excite many people.
*
Did you catch Coldplay on the Daily Show? Hard to put on a great show in a tiny studio, but they rocked it. I like a band that wears its U2 ambitions on its sleeve. (And yes, I've seen The 40 Year Old Virgin.)
*
Happy 4th! I'm always especially thankful on this holiday because we have a huge Beaverdale neighborhood party, and it reminds me of one of the reasons I love living in Iowa. The all-day block party is something that just doesn't happen in most states.
Who do you have in the Big Ten Network vs. Mediacom cage match? I'm going with the customer because I think we'll see a settlement by football season. We better... The Hawkeyes first three games are on the BTN, and that includes the Big Game: Iowa State at Iowa.
*
Speaking of Iowa-Iowa State (or is it Iowa State-Iowa?), we're cranking up RVTV again. Don't say anything to Andy if you see him. We still haven't told him, and one of his conditions of returning, actually his only condition, was no RVTV. I don't know what his problem is. He's the one who eats all the Steak-N-Shake.
*
Good to hear Marc Hansen filling in for Ken Miller on KXNO. I still read Marc frequently in the Des Moines Register, but miss his thoughts on sports (though he seems to write about his old world every chance he gets). Marc's level-headed observations are always welcome. It's an increasingly rare gift to see or hear people making their points without feeling that person has an agenda or a pre-conceived viewpoint. I think this is why the loss of Tim Russert crushed so many people.
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Speaking of Russert, John Bachman tells me the guy who hired Russert for Meet the Press, Michael Gartner, has an idea for Russert's successor: Bob Costas. After it sinks in, you realize it's an inspired choice. However, I think NBC should keep Tom Brokaw in the chair until he returns to fly-fishing.
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Cubs fanatic J.T. the Nutt loaned me a "docu-comedy" called Chasing October. Heather Burnside and I watched it the other night, and if you're a Cubs fan, you have to see it. A few scenes are obviously staged---kind of reminded me of our SoundOff bad actors club---but the joy and heartbreak of following the Cubbies really comes through. Warning: you will have to suffer through that fateful NLCS night in 2003 against the Florida Freaking Marlins. This will be Andy's favorite part of the movie (like he'd watch it).
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WALL-E is getting the best movie reviews of the year, and some of the most glowing endorsements for an animated film ever. That's why I feel a little guilty that I didn't like it more. I thought it was good, but not great. I certainly don't want to see it again, and there are many animated films I enjoyed more (Toy Story, The Incredibles, Cars, Monsters Inc., to name a few). B- for me, which is probably the lowest rating for this movie in North America.
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A-Rod & Madonna? I just don't care. I'm tired of both.
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Speaking of things I'm tired of, how 'bout Brett Favre's annual dance with retirement. Back in March when Favre retired, I finished our coverage by saying, "No word when Farve will first announce he's having second thoughts." That doesn't make me Nostradamus, or even Miss Clio. This was predictable, but Favre is right to return if he's not sure he's done. A few athletes left too soon, while many more stayed too long. It's hard to get it just right, but it's a short window. If Favre wants to play, he should play. He's still got game, he's fun to watch, and father time waits for no man. Except Bachman.
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I'm happy to report Shawn Terrell did return. Many of you were concerned he would stay on the road with Pearl Jam, but two things brought Shawn back: 1) the need for money. 2) college football season.
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Hey Jason Giambi, my high school Senior picture called and it wants the mustache back.
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The team formerly known as the Iowa Stars will announce their new nickname Wednesday. I heard a few months ago it would be Iowa Thunder, but I was later assured nothing had been decided. I hope that's true. Fans really wanted a say in this, and Thunder didn't excite many people.
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Did you catch Coldplay on the Daily Show? Hard to put on a great show in a tiny studio, but they rocked it. I like a band that wears its U2 ambitions on its sleeve. (And yes, I've seen The 40 Year Old Virgin.)
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Happy 4th! I'm always especially thankful on this holiday because we have a huge Beaverdale neighborhood party, and it reminds me of one of the reasons I love living in Iowa. The all-day block party is something that just doesn't happen in most states.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Scattershots: Berryman out of second chances.
Come on, Jason. I believed you. You looked me in the eyes and told me you'd make the most of yet another chance, and you blew it.
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Either Jason Berryman doesn't really want to play football or he just doesn't care. Two players told me a month ago that Berryman kept missing practices and showing up late to everything. A team official told me today that it never got better and Berryman became a cancer in the locker-room.
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The Barnstormers call it a suspension because it's required by the league, but the team insider told me Berryman will never play for the Barnstormers again. Will someone else pick him up? Who knows. He's got serious talent when motivated. I've been to three games this season. Berryman wreaked havoc in two of them, and spent the third sleepwalking.
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At least this was no crime, just bad work habits. And for $200 a week, only the motivated need apply, but you'd think that would include Jason. Talk to him one-on-one and it's hard not to walk away liking the guy.
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Berryman may not have learned a lesson, but it sounds like Mike Taylor did. Good for him. Nice to see him drafted in the second round.
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You know it's a sign of the basketball at Iowa and Iowa State when the top player in the NBA draft was kicked off the Cyclone team. Nice to read in the Register that Greg McDermott is proud of Taylor for turning his life around.
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I think part of what makes watching Shawn Johnson so fascinating is that we can't imagine doing any of what she does. We can swing a golf club somewhat like Tiger Woods (you know what I mean), but that thing where Shawn's standing on a four inch wide beam and suddenly jumps up and does a flip and a twist with her face just inches off the beam, and then lands on her feet?! I don't even see how that's humanly possible. And how 'bout that floor routine. She's 4 feet 9 (in sneakers) and gets more hang time than Leonard Houston. Can't wait for Beijing.
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Dallas Clark is the kind of guy who will gladly give you an autograph for free, but Sunday at Jordan Creek Town Center in West Des Moines, Clark's charging $20 a pop. Why? Because he cares. From 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. you can bring just about anything to Dallas and he'll sign it in exchange for a 20 dollar donation to help flood and tornado victims. Knowing Dallas, he'll sign something for whatever you can afford. Please bring your Hawkeye and Colts gear and help him raise some cash.
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The I-Cubs have a new star: Jeff Samardzija. He hasn't done a lot for the Cubs yet, but Notre Dame football fans love this guy. Especially now that the Irish forgot how to win.
*
Someone on the Murphy's Law feedback wants to know why Marty Tirrell "gets the shield and the kid gloves?" I don't see it that way. KXNO suspended Tirrell, but wouldn't say why. Marty took our phone call, but declined comment on any specifics. We showed part of his on-air apology. No one in this office was listening when whatever happened, happened. We're not going to report gossip or hearsay. KXNO and Marty played it smart and didn't provide any fuel for the fire. Meantime, they couldn't have paid for more buzz or hype. It was no stunt, but it proved these guys really get people talking.
*
I spent some time with West Des Moines' Tim McClelland in Wrigleyville last weekend. I asked Tim if he'd ever given thought to the Hall of Fame. Tim said he hadn't, and he was so humbled by the suggestion, I could tell he was genuine. McClelland should give himself more credit, because in my mind, he's a no doubt Hall of Famer (on and off the field). Eight umpires are in the Hall, and there's no doubt Tim is the most respected umpire of his generation. Not only do players vote him the best in MLB year-after-year, McClelland's also been in the middle of several famous moments (the Pine Tar Incident, Sosa' corked bat, the extra inning play at the plate in the playoffs last year). If McClelland's body holds up for another four years, he should think more about Cooperstown.
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Jenny and I had a fantastic time at Wrigley Field. It was the best birthday present I ever gave someone (for me). A big thanks to Heather Burnside for being such a fun tour guide. I finally recovered enough to type this.
*
I would have finished this sooner, but I got on the computer after Chris Hassel, and whenever he logs off, it takes about 36 hours to finally shut down. I'm not sure what he's doing, but it has to be similar to the month Andy uploaded all 1,100 of his albums for his iPod.
*
Against the advice of many of you, I rented I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry. Couldn't finish it. That is a terrible movie. And what's with Adam Sandler playing the part of a guy who is so hot, all the best looking women fight over him?
*
I enjoyed Get Smart a lot. The action is good, the comedy better. Steve Carrell carries the movie. It's a perfect part for his deadpan humor. Pleasant surprise.
*
Looking for a film noir sleeper... try The Lookout.
*
Shawn Terrell is on vacation. So far I've received four pictures from Pearl Jam concerts. This guy needs another hobby. I'm worried he'll become a roadie, and we need him here.
*
*
Either Jason Berryman doesn't really want to play football or he just doesn't care. Two players told me a month ago that Berryman kept missing practices and showing up late to everything. A team official told me today that it never got better and Berryman became a cancer in the locker-room.
*
The Barnstormers call it a suspension because it's required by the league, but the team insider told me Berryman will never play for the Barnstormers again. Will someone else pick him up? Who knows. He's got serious talent when motivated. I've been to three games this season. Berryman wreaked havoc in two of them, and spent the third sleepwalking.
*
At least this was no crime, just bad work habits. And for $200 a week, only the motivated need apply, but you'd think that would include Jason. Talk to him one-on-one and it's hard not to walk away liking the guy.
*
Berryman may not have learned a lesson, but it sounds like Mike Taylor did. Good for him. Nice to see him drafted in the second round.
*
You know it's a sign of the basketball at Iowa and Iowa State when the top player in the NBA draft was kicked off the Cyclone team. Nice to read in the Register that Greg McDermott is proud of Taylor for turning his life around.
*
I think part of what makes watching Shawn Johnson so fascinating is that we can't imagine doing any of what she does. We can swing a golf club somewhat like Tiger Woods (you know what I mean), but that thing where Shawn's standing on a four inch wide beam and suddenly jumps up and does a flip and a twist with her face just inches off the beam, and then lands on her feet?! I don't even see how that's humanly possible. And how 'bout that floor routine. She's 4 feet 9 (in sneakers) and gets more hang time than Leonard Houston. Can't wait for Beijing.
*
Dallas Clark is the kind of guy who will gladly give you an autograph for free, but Sunday at Jordan Creek Town Center in West Des Moines, Clark's charging $20 a pop. Why? Because he cares. From 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. you can bring just about anything to Dallas and he'll sign it in exchange for a 20 dollar donation to help flood and tornado victims. Knowing Dallas, he'll sign something for whatever you can afford. Please bring your Hawkeye and Colts gear and help him raise some cash.
*
The I-Cubs have a new star: Jeff Samardzija. He hasn't done a lot for the Cubs yet, but Notre Dame football fans love this guy. Especially now that the Irish forgot how to win.
*
Someone on the Murphy's Law feedback wants to know why Marty Tirrell "gets the shield and the kid gloves?" I don't see it that way. KXNO suspended Tirrell, but wouldn't say why. Marty took our phone call, but declined comment on any specifics. We showed part of his on-air apology. No one in this office was listening when whatever happened, happened. We're not going to report gossip or hearsay. KXNO and Marty played it smart and didn't provide any fuel for the fire. Meantime, they couldn't have paid for more buzz or hype. It was no stunt, but it proved these guys really get people talking.
*
I spent some time with West Des Moines' Tim McClelland in Wrigleyville last weekend. I asked Tim if he'd ever given thought to the Hall of Fame. Tim said he hadn't, and he was so humbled by the suggestion, I could tell he was genuine. McClelland should give himself more credit, because in my mind, he's a no doubt Hall of Famer (on and off the field). Eight umpires are in the Hall, and there's no doubt Tim is the most respected umpire of his generation. Not only do players vote him the best in MLB year-after-year, McClelland's also been in the middle of several famous moments (the Pine Tar Incident, Sosa' corked bat, the extra inning play at the plate in the playoffs last year). If McClelland's body holds up for another four years, he should think more about Cooperstown.
*
Jenny and I had a fantastic time at Wrigley Field. It was the best birthday present I ever gave someone (for me). A big thanks to Heather Burnside for being such a fun tour guide. I finally recovered enough to type this.
*
I would have finished this sooner, but I got on the computer after Chris Hassel, and whenever he logs off, it takes about 36 hours to finally shut down. I'm not sure what he's doing, but it has to be similar to the month Andy uploaded all 1,100 of his albums for his iPod.
*
Against the advice of many of you, I rented I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry. Couldn't finish it. That is a terrible movie. And what's with Adam Sandler playing the part of a guy who is so hot, all the best looking women fight over him?
*
I enjoyed Get Smart a lot. The action is good, the comedy better. Steve Carrell carries the movie. It's a perfect part for his deadpan humor. Pleasant surprise.
*
Looking for a film noir sleeper... try The Lookout.
*
Shawn Terrell is on vacation. So far I've received four pictures from Pearl Jam concerts. This guy needs another hobby. I'm worried he'll become a roadie, and we need him here.
*
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