We're taking bets that stories need to be written down...

This weekend I had a great conversation about stories and the fact that we love to tell them, but we rarely write them down. Throughout my time blogging I have written many of my stories like the time the guy walked into my house and many more. I would now like to share a few of grandmother's stories. Each week I will tell a fun and quirky story that involved my grandmother. She was one of my favorite people ever and even though she was stubborn, sometimes mean, and a little nutso I loved her with all my heart. She died in February of 2003 and suffered from Alzheimer's/Dementia (It came on so rapidly the doctor's didn't know for sure.). She lived alone from 1989 (when her brother died) until she was 84 (in 2002) even though she was legally blind and generally crabby. Here is one of my favorite stories:

Not My Leaves

As my grandmother got older she decided that she had enough with nature. She used to have an enormous garden, 3 cherry trees, a couple of pear trees, a couple of sycamore trees (I think), six large beds for flowers and a crab apple tree. While I have never understood the crab apple tree, the rest of the trees were pretty cool and they were great to climb. My grandmother began her assault on the trees first because they came with one of the most evil inventions: Leaves. She did not want to rake leaves anymore or pick up the fruit that they produced. Now she was in her late sixties so I can understand her not wanting to do the work, but she probably could have hired someone to rake the yard a couple of times a year. Though since she was a depression era baby that would have never worked because she was cheap and she would probably accuse the person of stealing from her.

So my grandmother cut down everyone one of the trees in her yard over the course of a few years. Now this wasn't done very professionally so there were awkward stumps all over that a certain person who would mow her lawn would twist an ankle on at least once a mowing. Her yard went from being beautifully shaded and green to sun-drenched and slightly burned. So you think that my grandmother would be satisfied, but Mother Nature was not finished with my grandmother. She still had the power of wind and leaves on her side. You see my grandmother never really thought about her backyard neighbor who had three 60 maple trees that towered just three feet from the backyard fence. Every fall they would unleash a torrent of leaves that would get caught in my grandmother's yard since three sides were fenced. So she would have to pick up the leaves and do all the work even though she didn't technically own any of the leaves.

Many years pasted and my grandmother became very upset about the leaf situation. She had known this neighbor for over forty years, but talking wasn't something her generation did. So she decided that she was going to start returning the leaves to sender. So one fall she collected all of the leaves in bags and tossed them over the fence to the neighbors yard. If she was going to have trees then she was going to have leaves. Now most of you probably are cheering for my grandmother because she took matters into her own hand and really wasn't that malicious. Though I would argue she already did the work, why not just bring them to the street. Well the story does not end here as the backyard neighbor did not like this one bit. So this 65+ year old woman called the police on the almost 75+ year old woman.

The police responded and had to ask my grandmother to stop. Now I would have loved to see this personally because my grandmother could argue with the best of them and whenever she had the truth on her side she was not to be denied. (Her truth was they were not her leaves so she was just returning them to their owner.) The policeman convinced her to stop but only after threat of arrest if it happened again. I am pretty sure that every year after that though she would drop on bag in the neighbor's yard in the middle of the night because there always seemed to be more leaves at one part of the fence then the rest of the fence.

My grandmother loved to tell me that story almost every time I visited her in the fall. She would get so worked up like it happened yesterday and she would always shake her fist at least once during the story. One of the reasons I loved my grandmother so much was because of her passion. She might not have had the most rationale sense, but by the facts she was usually correct. So now every time I pick up leaves I always throw a couple of pine cones or small sticks in one of the neighbors yard in honor of my grandmother. I hope you enjoyed the story.

We're taking bets that this would be an awesome movie...

Since I love Boston I figured I should share the best movie trailer dealing with Boston ever.

Boston Movie Trailer - watch more funny videos

Wouldn't it be awesome???

We're taking bets that this is how you respond to stupid comments...

Many of you probably didn't watch the ESPN documentary "Fab Five". It was actually very good, but had some really sad moments. One of the worst moments was when Jalen Rose called black player's at Duke "Uncle Toms". It is understandable that the Fab Five was bitter towards Duke as they never beat them and never won anything as a group, but those comments were uncalled for. One of the classiest people in all of sports is Grant Hill who attended Duke and was a winner in every sense of the word. He responded to Jalen's comments in a very professional and direct way in the NY Times. I am including his entire response below. You can also read it at the NY Times. While I have never met Grant I hope one day I can thank him for putting such eloquent and important words on paper.

TAKEN DIRECTLY FROM THE NEW YORK TIMES:

“The Fab Five,” an ESPN film about the Michigan basketball careers of Jalen Rose, Juwan Howard, Chris Webber, Jimmy King and Ray Jackson from 1991 to 1993, was broadcast for the first time Sunday night. In the show, Rose, the show’s executive producer, stated that Duke recruited only black players he considered to be “Uncle Toms.” Grant Hill, a player on the Duke team that beat Michigan in the 1992 Final Four, reflected on Rose’s comments.

I am a fan, friend and longtime competitor of the Fab Five. I have competed against Jalen Rose and Chris Webber since the age of 13. At Michigan, the Fab Five represented a cultural phenomenon that impacted the country in a permanent and positive way. The very idea of the Fab Five elicited pride and promise in much the same way the Georgetown teams did in the mid-1980s when I was in high school and idolized them. Their journey from youthful icons to successful men today is a road map for so many young, black men (and women) who saw their journey through the powerful documentary, “The Fab Five.”

It was a sad and somewhat pathetic turn of events, therefore, to see friends narrating this interesting documentary about their moment in time and calling me a bitch and worse, calling all black players at Duke “Uncle Toms” and, to some degree, disparaging my parents for their education, work ethic and commitment to each other and to me. I should have guessed there was something regrettable in the documentary when I received a Twitter apology from Jalen before its premiere. I am aware Jalen has gone to some length to explain his remarks about my family in numerous interviews, so I believe he has some admiration for them.

In his garbled but sweeping comment that Duke recruits only “black players that were ‘Uncle Toms,’ ” Jalen seems to change the usual meaning of those very vitriolic words into his own meaning, i.e., blacks from two-parent, middle-class families. He leaves us all guessing exactly what he believes today.

I am beyond fortunate to have two parents who are still working well into their 60s. They received great educations and use them every day. My parents taught me a personal ethic I try to live by and pass on to my children.

I come from a strong legacy of black Americans. My namesake, Henry Hill, my father’s father, was a day laborer in Baltimore. He could not read or write until he was taught to do so by my grandmother. His first present to my dad was a set of encyclopedias, which I now have. He wanted his only child, my father, to have a good education, so he made numerous sacrifices to see that he got an education, including attending Yale.

This is part of our great tradition as black Americans. We aspire for the best or better for our children and work hard to make that happen for them. Jalen’s mother is part of our great black tradition and made the same sacrifices for him.

My teammates at Duke — all of them, black and white — were a band of brothers who came together to play at the highest level for the best coach in basketball. I know most of the black players who preceded and followed me at Duke. They all contribute to our tradition of excellence on the court.

It is insulting and ignorant to suggest that men like Johnny Dawkins (coach at Stanford), Tommy Amaker (coach at Harvard), Billy King (general manager of the Nets), Tony Lang (coach of the Mitsubishi Diamond Dolphins in Japan), Thomas Hill (small-business owner in Texas), Jeff Capel (former coach at Oklahoma and Virginia Commonwealth), Kenny Blakeney (assistant coach at Harvard), Jay Williams (ESPN analyst), Shane Battier (Memphis Grizzlies) and Chris Duhon (Orlando Magic) ever sold out their race.

To hint that those who grew up in a household with a mother and father are somehow less black than those who did not is beyond ridiculous. All of us are extremely proud of the current Duke team, especially Nolan Smith. He was raised by his mother, plays in memory of his late father and carries himself with the pride and confidence that they instilled in him.

The sacrifice, the effort, the education and the friendships I experienced in my four years are cherished. The many Duke graduates I have met around the world are also my “family,” and they are a special group of people. A good education is a privilege.

Just as Jalen has founded a charter school in Michigan, we are expected to use our education to help others, to improve life for those who need our assistance and to use the excellent education we have received to better the world.

A highlight of my time at Duke was getting to know the great John Hope Franklin, James B. Duke Professor of History and the leading scholar of the last century on the total history of African-Americans in this country. His insights and perspectives contributed significantly to my overall development and helped me understand myself, my forefathers and my place in the world.

Ad ingenium faciendum, toward the building of character, is a phrase I recently heard. To me, it is the essence of an educational experience. Struggling, succeeding, trying again and having fun within a nurturing but competitive environment built character in all of us, including every black graduate of Duke.

My mother always says, “You can live without Chaucer and you can live without calculus, but you cannot make it in the wide, wide world without common sense.” As we get older, we understand the importance of these words. Adulthood is nothing but a series of choices: you can say yes or no, but you cannot avoid saying one or the other. In the end, those who are successful are those who adjust and adapt to the decisions they have made and make the best of them.

I caution my fabulous five friends to avoid stereotyping me and others they do not know in much the same way so many people stereotyped them back then for their appearance and swagger. I wish for you the restoration of the bond that made you friends, brothers and icons.

I am proud of my family. I am proud of my Duke championships and all my Duke teammates. And, I am proud I never lost a game against the Fab Five.

Grant Henry Hill
Phoenix Suns
Duke ‘94

We're taking bets that it is job hunting time...

I will be away for the next five days at NASPA Placement Exchange in Philadelphia trying to secure that elusive job. Wish me luck!

WTBT Volume 22, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* I am pretty sure that Glee is trying to push boundaries with every episode.
* Kurt and his Dad's conversation about sex was pretty awesome though.
* it sucks that money is an issue in life and at every turn you need to shell out tons of money for basic things like parking.
* out of tragedy comes togetherness.
* getting positive medical news, even if it is not your own makes for an awesome day.
* it's good the Miami Heat do not play baseball because there's no crying in baseball.
* the newly released 9/11 video just makes me scared that someday something like this will happen again.
* sadly this lady's idea of a designated driver means we are going to start seeing billboards that say "Have a Licensed Designated Driver".
* it always makes me laugh when I hear a car hit a house.
* only when a volcano erupts can you use the word "spew" and not get the giggles.
* having a good luck charm only does so much and then it is up to you.

WTBT Volume 21, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* I am really getting excited about the BoSox in 2011.
* Miley Cyrus was actually funny last night on SNL.
* Burger King must really piss off these restaurants.
* telling a friend the truth is very hard to do, but sometimes has to be done.
* all this protesting/violence in the Middle East and Africa is getting scarier every day.
* we really need to look deeper into the work that teacher's do and find more ways to respect them.
* playing games with balls is not always fun.
* the only way Charlie Sheen will go away is if we stop giving him attention.
* the Miami Heat are going to lose in the first round of the NBA play-offs and you heard it here first.
* when it comes to patience some women can be a little lacking.
* you probably don't know that Lindsay Vonn is kicking ass currently in international skiing.
* it is so nice the weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer.

We're taking bets that listening is important...

Here are a few of the books I have read over the last few weeks.

Just Listen by Mark Goulston
* This was a paradigm changing book that I think everyone should read. It is how we don't really listen to others for understanding. We need to be more attentive and we would get much more satisfaction out of our relationships. If you have teenagers this book should be a must read.

Maze Runner by James Dashner
* An absolutely fascinating book about a future Earth. Almost like Lord of the Flies, but in a eerie controlled setting. This book sets you on an adventure and once you think you have figured it out the floor drops out and there is a whole new reality. Amazing book.

On the Bright Side: Finding Hope in Every Today by Jim Howard
* A cute little book that gets you to remember the importance of being happy.

Live to Tell by Lisa Gardner
* A scary tale about child mental illness and murder. Another D.D. Warren detective novel set in Boston. There are always great twists and it keeps you guessing until the end.

Simplify Your Work Life by Elaine St. James
* Although I don't have a job I am trying to make sure I do things better. This book is a little old and might be out of touch with how things are today rather than 2000, but there are some neat ideas and tips to be better.

Other books I have started:

The Last Apprentice: Revenge of the Witch - Joseph Delaney
The Difference Maker - John C. Maxwell

We're taking bets that you are lucky every day you get to breath...

Many of you have probably already heard about Wes Leonard, the high school basketball player who died minutes after hitting a game winning shot. This is the second tragic story that has hit me pretty hard lately. My next door neighbor Ralph Melillo has lived his life to the fullest. He is only 51 and was just diagnosed with a degenerative condition called cervical myelopathy. There is a good chance he isn't going to see 2012. Ralph is an amazing man who throws a huge July 4th party and Halloween party for the neighborhood. Ralph always has a smile and a story that makes you smile. He would give up his right arm for anyone who needed it. It is amazing how many people he has had a positive effect on in only half a lifetime.

These amazingly sad stories that makes me think about my priorities. I have not had the best 8 months on the job front, but I am working hard to stay positive. I am blessed with many great things in my life. My family and Theresa are right at the top, with my best friend Ian next in line of the things that make me a lucky man. Then I have all my other friends (like Johnny S., Chris R, Tiffany G. & many more) and past students who continue to enrich my life. I am lucky for having each and everyone of them. I know that each day I get closer to the perfect job and the perfect life

You have to remember we all have a precious few amount of days to live. Most of us complain so much about our lives that we often forget to live them. Most of you that know me understand I am not much of a complainer, but rather a searcher for solutions. I hope that all of you look at life as a gift that it is and think twice before you complain about something ridiculous. You're days are numbered; though hopefully the number is above 30,000. You are all blessed and lucky to be alive. May each day you live be better than the last.

WTBT Volume 20, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* Charlie Sheen is getting speaking advice from Gary Busey.
* it makes you happy to see baseball on ESPN again.
* this guy's sideburns took over his brain.
* whether you agree with their policies or not BYU is doing something positive by sticking to it's morals.
* when you were in high school and college it wasn't called a comeback but a lifelong drought.
* maybe I shared a little too much with that last one.
* American Idol should keep more women than men this year.
* Steven Tyler is still funny although he has been kind of a wimp on live tv.
* BYU will get knocked out in the second round of the NCAA's.
* this never happened when you were in college.
* I would be shocked if any guys turned down the opportunity to see the after class demonstration.
* looking for a miracle is not a bad thing.
* Libya is getting scarier every single day.
* you are gettin old if you remember when Joey Lawrence was a cute kid.

We're taking bets that there are some mixed messages...

Here are a couple observations from the last week or so. Sorry it's been a while.

* Glee last week definitely sent mixed messages to its audience. I know the show is not supposed to be for teenagers, (even though it is on at 8 pm.) but this week really did nothing to making drinking look like something that should not be done in high school. While I am not sure that 21 is the best drinking age, I know it shouldn't be 16. Glee really dropped the ball when it is sending so many positive messages to kids and fighting for acceptance. So many more messages about responsibility could have been out there. I was very disappointed.

* There are a ton of signs on the highway that really make me laugh. On my trip to South Carolina I saw three different signs that are very weird. First there is the thousands of signs telling people that bridges freeze before the road. Doesn't that make sense? There is no insulation on a bridge and there is no dirt underneath it to slow the freeze. The fact that these signs are in Jersey was the most confusing to me, because I figured Jersey is in the northeast and would easily no this. I guess not.

The second crazy sign was for the highway safety areas. These seem to be areas where they can make moving violations more expensive. Shouldn't all parts of the highway be safe? Do we have to have signs like this. I mean I-84 in Connecticut is one of the most dangerous highways I have ever travelled on and no one needs to tell me to be safe.

The last sign was in Washington, D.C. for the DUI Enforcement Area. Um... I think that everywhere should be the DUI Enforcement Area. First off the drunks probably can't read that sign and secondly if I was going to drive drunk (Which might be the absolute dumbest thing anyone can do) I would avoid that area. Can anyone help me to understand this sign?

* Charlie Sheen has officially cross the line from an addict to a crazy person who is also an addict. He doesn't care what he says or who he hurts. This is the most surreal thing I have seen since OJ was being driven through LA. You don't really want to watch, but you have to. It is sad that this is what our society accepts and allows to be on TV. News stations no less. Ugh.

We're taking bets that the Oscar goes to...

Congrats to Colin Firth and Natalie Portman. They rocked out getting the Best Actor and Best Actress Awards. Here is a cool pic from msnbc.com.

We're taking bets that sometimes you need a vacation...

I will be gone for the next few days, but I will be back to blog for everyone on Saturday. I hope you have a fun week!!!

WTBT Volume 19, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* "Naked sausage stealer caught on tape" is one of the best headlines ever.
* you have to love that he chose to air dry.
* waiting in a virtual waiting room is lonely when no one else is home.
* if Wisconsin succeeds in its anti-union bill we could be in for riots at home.
* Bruno Mars "Lazy Day" is a great song especially for college students.
* I still don't think Carmelo Anthony will ever be a Net.
* most of you don't know how to dougie.
* the more you watch Lady Gaga interview the more you are impressed with her.
* it is fun to forbade things.
* when you steal 725,000 condoms it has to be a inside job, though I bet they used the back door.
* most of the time the things I write are only funny to me.

We're taking bets that you are not celebrating your favorite president this weekend.

Here are my top ten movies with a president in them.

10. Murder at 1600 - When Wesley Snipes was actually fun in movies.
9. Dr. Strangelove - One of the craziest movies I have ever seen.
8. Dave - Really a fun movie and they balanced the budget.

7. Independence Day - Bill Pullman gives one of the better speeches.

6. Absolute Power - What a great thriller
5. Armageddon - Only a brief appearance of a president, but good enough
4. The Pelican Brief - Denzel and Julia - Probably the best combination of actor/actress in the 90's.
3. Love Actually - Although Billy Bob was an ass.
2. The Fifth Element - I love watching this movie. Probably because of Chris Tucker.
1. The American President - I had a huge crush on Annette Bening. Probably the quintessential president movie.

BTW - Lincoln is my favorite president overall followed by Kennedy, T. Roosevelt, FDR, J. Adams and Clinton.

We're taking bet that sports nuts are sometimes actually crazy...

Here are a few observations that I have over the last few days. Enjoy.

* Did you hear about the imbecile from Alabama who killed some trees at Auburn University because he hates them? Thankfully he was caught because he bragged about it on sports radio. Why does sports make people do evil things? I support though I don't completely understand ultimate passion for your team that makes you paint your chest in 4 degree weather. I love the Boston Red Sox and own an amazing amount of Red Sox apparel, but I never want to get arrested for my love of them. I will argue with James Lipscomb about why Louisville stinks and UConn is better for five hours and never come even think of slashing his tires. This guy killed two 130 year old trees and he was 62 years old. I mean if this was a fraternity prank, while not okay, would have made me feel better. We need some serious reality checks here in the United States. We don't live in Egypt or Bahrain. We don't have any reason to harbor the amount of hate this man had. Please stop the insanity over you favorite sports teams.

* To say that I am confused by the protesting in Bahrain is a complete understatement. Now most people don't even now where Bahrain is or that it is an island nation, but it has been another one of our allies. The kingdom (yes it is considered a kingdom) is ruled by King Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifah who, in March 1999, succeeded his father as head of state and instituted elections for parliament, gave women the right to vote, and released all political prisoners.Now there is two parliaments and the Upper House is appointed by the King and the lower house is elected by the people. The biggest problem is the fact that the Shiite's and Sunni's islamists cannot get along. The Sunni's control the lower house by a 22 to 18 margin and the Shiite's are leading these protests. The weirdest thing is that the King has made tons of moves to "Westernize" his country to give women more rights and unemployment is only at 4%. (Which if this was the US, no one would be complain and we actually might be dancing in the streets.) He actually seems like the opposite of Mubarak except for the not giving oil money to his people. I have a strange feeling that each of these country protests are going to seem the same, but have very different reasons and outcomes. The Bahrain military is completely behind the King in this instance and he is going to keep power. I for one am scared for the protesters because it looks like many are going to die for their cause.

* It is sad, but Uncle Leo from Seinfeld died at age 88 yesterday. He was one of the best characters on that show and had great comedic timing. Go to Youtube and watch him say "Jerry!" one last time.

* American Idol has actually been pretty good lately. I think the show is going to have a huge comeback. (Yes I know the ratings are still huge) They have done a good job of focusing on more positive things than bad and there are some very likable contestants. If you stopped watching I think you should give it a try, because I think there is going to be some excellent singing and so very good drama.

WTBT Volume 18, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* the GOP should give Obama's budget a chance instead of automatically bashing it.
* you think it is about time that BoyzIIMen has a huge comeback.
* I feel like this kid will always have amazing things within her reach.
* she probably will just grab any opportunity that comes by with her toes.
* Lance Armstrong better be retired for good or we should get Brett Favre to start texting him.
* Albert Pujols will be a St. Louis Cardinal in 2012.
* I would be interested to know what you all think about the teacher blogger who was suspended for posting anonymously mean things about her students.
* I don't think public education should be a "customer is always right" industry.
* UConn basketball could be in trouble in the tournament if they don't start winning some games.
* it is pretty obvious I mean the men's team as the women are just fine.
* Fizbo maybe one of the greatest TV characters ever after Clive Bixby of course.
* unrest in Africa and the Middle East is going to dominate the next three months of news.
* even if you like Justin Bieber you are kind of getting sick of him.
* it is weird when thieves steal things that are hard to hide from authorities.
* when those robbers do get caught the newspaper will have a headline that refers to a "Prickly situation."
* I have been a reading fiend lately and might complete my 12th book of 2011 by the end of the month.
* you are getting old if you remember when I work some sort of plaid shirt almost everyday for the entire winter.
* I still don't have good fashion sense.

We're taking bets that knowledge is some sort of power...

Hey everyone!!! I just wanted to give a little update on the books I am reading or have just recently read. You should definitely check them out.

Books I have finished
Secrets of a Buccaneer Scholar by James Marcus Bach
- This book has changed how I view the way I educate myself. Not everyone is cut out to learn though traditional schooling. If it works for you then please continue, but if you struggle maybe you are a Buccaneer Scholar too.

Nine Dragons by Michael Connolly
- Another great Harry Bosch mystery novel. This one shocked me at the end. The things some people do for their families is amazing.

The Book of Dead Philosophers by Simon Critchley
- This was not really the book I was expecting. It basically talked about how each of the great philosophers in the world died. It does give some brief insight on what each of them believed in and is actually kind of funny.

Books I am currently reading:

Just Listen - Mark Goulston
The Maze Runner - James Dashner

WTBT Volume 17, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* you are glad this lady is now okay, but you really wonder what the heck happened.
* Christina Aguilera must have some bad karma because even though she got the lyrics right she fell at the Grammy's.
* despite Albert Pujols having a deadline so his contract won't be a distraction all season, it will still be a distraction all season.
* having something burnt in your oven literally stinks.
* turning on the self cleaning part of your oven is almost worse.
* Lady Gaga's egg appearance was actually kind of cool considering it related to her song.
* the Tiger Woods spitting debacle seems kind of weird.
* you are getting old if you remember when John Travolta was the hottest actor for the second time in his career.
* my favorite movie for Valentine's Day is Notting Hill.
* the "I'm just a girl asking a boy to love her" line gets you every time.
* without all of the crazy weather in the US people are starting to talk to each other about real things again.

We're taking bets that you need to love what you do...

Many people who read my blog know that I am currently unemployed. I decided that my time as a Residence Hall Director was up and I needed to move to a position that would be a promotion. I finally had my master's degree (Which I struggled to get because I was stubborn and have a buccanneer type learning style.) and know I could be an asset on a larger level at any college or University.

Now I loved being a Hall Director and was in the job for longer than anyone would have expected. Most people thought I was crazy continuing to live with college students, but it really was an amazing experience. I was able to end having one of the most incredible staffs I had ever had. (They might think they were the best, but there was no such thing.) I was able to meet and hopefully help thousands of students. I definitely had closer relationships with some as I am friends with many of them still today, but I really enjoyed all my students. Some of my favorites were the one's who got in trouble, met with me a number of times, finally got it and ended up graduating. There were definitely some trying times including a stabbing, a hate crime and other racial issues, baseball riots, 9/11, threats of violence, fights, and a bunch of students who died over the years. I always hope that we handled those issues and help the students to become stronger adults. So now it is time for something new.

I have applied to 64 different jobs at 58 different institutions in higher education. Most of these jobs I have not heard even one word from. I've had a few phone interviews and some on campus interivews and the right fit never happened. With one school I still haven't even been contacted about the job even though it has been 2 months since my last on campus interview. It is tough, especially since I know that I was very qualified for at least 80% of those jobs and some of them I was probably over qualified. Not all of them were in Residence Life, but that is where my passion lies. Additionally, I have applied for numerous jobs outside of higher education and have not even got a sniff of a job from any of those places. It is tough, but I am hopeful every day and know I have to keep trying.

That leads me to the point of today's blog. If I don't get a job in the next six months I probably will have to give up what I love to do and find a completely new path for my life. It pains me to think about it, but it definitely could be a reality. The funniest thing is that I never intended a path of higher education administrator, but I loved my college experience and had someone (Dean Ted Zern) who recognized I might be good in this field. I never was interested in Residence Life, but after my first couple of years I really couldn't imagine leaving it. I know that you are never to old to reinvent yourself, but I am definitely scared about it. I need to work my ass off the next six months and make sure I leave it all on the field because if it is the end I will go down swinging. Regardless it makes me feel better to have put it out there. Wish me luck because it is going to be fun.

WTBT Volume 16, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* it official Parks and Recreation is one of the funniest shows on TV.
* you have to believe that the Egyptians are going to be better off without Mubarak.
* this guy must of paid a ton in luggage fees.
* Clive Bixby is one of my favorite spies.
* Elton John and Billy Joel are in the girliest fight/argument ever.
* it is fitting that Dennis Rodman's jersey is going to be retired by the Pistons on April Fools Day.
* you have no desire to see the Spider-Man musical.
* the Swedes need to work on their bully prevention.
* you should being saying prayers tonight for the Chileans that just had another earthquake.
* if you are looking to get excited about summer movies you need to see the X-Men: First Class trailer.

We're taking bets that Mubarak will fair alright...

Here are a few observations I have over the last few days or so. I hope you enjoy.

* Hosni Mubarak is going to be leaving Egypt with a ton of money. He is 82 years old and probably will be stricken with a very painful cancer in the next few years. (Mainly because I believe in karma) I am surprised that Hosni didn't realize that once he tried to have democratic elections then rigged them that he was not going to have a happy ending. When has rigging a democratic election ever worked out in the long run. I mean even JFK was assassinated. (If you believe the Chicago Mob and Frank Sinatra helped him win.) Someday people will actually study history so they don't repeat it, but until then things like this will continue to happen. Thankfully I think that the Egyptians will be better off for the next 50 years. Only time will tell.

* I am very dismayed at the fact that Jerry Sloan is resigning/being forced out as the coach of the Utah Jazz. He has been a great coach and probably the greatest coach to never win a championship. The problem I have is that players completely control the game and if your star doesn't get along with the coach than the coach is out. We used to respect our coaches. It seems like that has completely gone out the window. Now I do agree that coaches can get out of touch with their player and Jerry is 68, but all he has done is get his team to the playoffs every year. He made the playoffs 20 out of 23 years with Utah and won the division seven times. This should be a sad day for Utah because they will never have a better coach.

* I know that we don't necessarily think that our politicians have a lot of common sense, but can you believe the Craigslist guy? How could he have thought this was a good idea and he would not get found out? You have to love his flexing picture. We live in an age where there is a good chance if you fart in church it is going to be national news. I would love for us to have a year where no congressman or congresswoman has a scandal that causes more embarrassment to our government. Is that possible? Probably not, but you could say I'm a dreamer.

* I know everyone has seen the Darth Vader commercial by now, but here is a little bonus that makes the commercial even better. This kid could not get any cooler or cuter in my book. I hope you enjoy it.

WTBT Volume 15, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* when you are in a relationship it is easy to get sucked into bad television.
* the Chrysler Eminem commercial and the E-Trade Bless You Peppers were the two best commercials of the Super Bowl.
* you are much more excited about Captain America after seeing the trailer.
* it's sad Marc Savard might not play hockey again due to concussions.
* his concussions make Colin Campbell seem like even more on an asshole.
* Cameron Diaz feeding A-Rod at the Super Bowl kind of made me hate him even more.
* Obama definitely did a good job in his interview with Bill O'Reilly.
* you like Bill O'Reilly more than you want to admit.
* Glee writers really have it out for the Lohan's and it is kind of funny.
* sometimes guys are just clueless and that definitely includes me.

WTBT Volume 14, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* there are five movies that I will stop what I am doing to watch when they come on TV.
- Shawshank Redemption
- Say Anything
- LOTR: Fellowship of the Ring
- Star Wars
- Good Will Hunting
* you can't believe that Phil Simms tried to punch Desmond Howard.
* it's one thing to defend your son; it is another thing to start a fight over words.
* you have no interest in any of the movies currently headlining theaters today.
* this is a fun way to raise money and might actually get me to start jogging.
* the Pittsburgh Penguins will have a tough time making the playoffs now that Malkin is out for the season.
* you are looking forward to Dana Carvey on SNL tonight.
* if they have one more city after Miami for the Real Housewives they will have jumped the shark.
* you are probably right and they probably already have.
* the Green Bay Packers are going to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 37-31.
* you know you are broken when you drop a penny and frantically look for it on the ground.
* making prop bets on the Super Bowl with friends is kind of fun.
* being the best among your friends at something is cool, but when you realize you are not even close to the best in the world it can humble you.
* you have to love when someone totally overreacts to something and only hurts them self.
* we should start calling that "Phil Simmsing It."
* some of the ads on the side of your Facebook page kind of scare you.
* this guy does not feel good.
* you are getting old if you actually understand that joke.
* sometimes you have to give up a dream to try and develop another.

We're taking bets that pot heads are the smartest people I know...

Here are a few observations I have had over the past few days. I hope that you enjoy them.

* I know a lot of people support the use of marijuana and think it should be legalized. I am not one of those people because I have seen the damage it can cause. Now I will agree that typically when dealing with pot heads you do not have to deal with a lot of violence that you do with drunks, but I don't think that makes it okay. Every time I hear that pot is not so bad I look at stories like Robert Michelson in Farmington, CT. He called 911 to ask what kind of trouble he would get in for growing marijuana. Predictably he was arrested and charge with various crimes. People who are not smoking pot do not do things like this. At the very least the one thing I think pot gives us is great stories to tell from the people who deal with pot heads and other various pot people. Now I will get off my high horse.

* I think that Mother Nature really wants the Super Bowl to be in a cold weather stadium. She is doing her best to freeze everyone in North Texas with ice and snow. I know that they will close the roof and it will be an indoor game, but maybe it would be good for the teams to weather the elements. I think that the Super Bowl XLVIII in Jersey will be all kinds of awesome in 2014. Just stay away from the sides of the stadium as there probably will be some falling ice.

* Can more people please watch Detroit 1-8-7 or at the very least TiVo it? It is an excellent show with perhaps on of the best TV actors around in Michael Imperioli. He is Awesome times 1,000. The more you learn about his past the more you like and dislike the guy. The show is actually filmed in Detroit and it is helping the economy there. Michigan has had enough bad luck with the Lions, Michigan football and basketball and the fact that Chris Rader no longer lives there. It has to catch a break at sometime.

* I need someone to explain to me why San Diego State University is not good in every sport it plays. This year they are finally getting some recognition in basketball, but shouldn't this school be at the top of everyone's list. It has a beautiful campus in one of the best cities in the world. You cannot get much better weather than San Diego. Recruits from all sports should be begging to go there. I am just shocked it has not become a national power in every sport yet. Tony Gwynn knew what he was doing when he went to school there.

* Facebook turns seven years old today. It is amazing that the company is now worth $63 billion. I remember telling my classmates in Current Events in Higher Education in April 2005 that they should pay attention to Facebook and most people didn't know what I was talking about and thought I was crazy. Now just about every college student uses FB at least once a day if not much much more. I for one am glad FB is around and hope it is around for a long long time. So Happy Birthday Facebook. Your teenage years will be here before you konw it.

We're taking bets that Lil Wayne is a Green & Yellow genius...

I really have to ask how anyone could not like this song. Even if you are a Steelers fan you have to appreciate the genius of the lyrics and the song. Well maybe not. Steeler fans are pretty passionate about their team, but I think it is amazing.

WTBT Volume 13, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* the Year of the Rabbit is going to lead to a new baby boom.
* I don't believe the Black Eyed Peas will make the Super Bowl Halftime worth watching.
* it is awesome that the spirit of Ted Kennedy is now in a turkey.
* you think it is awesome that he is attacking a federal vehicle.
* a car commercial will be the best Super Bowl commercial this year.
* Andy Pettitte is going to have an exciting time being retired especially after he testifies against Roger "The Dope Dodger" Clemens.
* this is why I think smokers are not always the smartest people.
* it is fun playing Sporcle in a group.
* I am Number Four is going to be the most fun movie of February.
* you are getting old if you remember George Clooney with a mullet.
* the Egyptians that attacked Anderson Cooper probably have a hit put on them by Kathi Griffin.

WTBT Volume 12, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* it is hard to see your shadow in the middle of a snow/ice storm.
* if this was not on video you would not believe it was real.
* you wonder how no one was hurt in that car.
* not having insurance is scary, but it sounds funny when millionaire football players are complaining about not having insurance.
* Mubarak won't make it to September as Egyptian president.
* college football recruiting day as gotten a little out of hand.
* you can have too many animals.
* Happy Gilmore is Adam Sandler's best comedy.
* you are getting old if you remember when Burt Reynolds was the coolest actor on the planet.
* the new American Idol is getting better each week.

WTBT Volume 11, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* I have made my first goal of 20 posts a month.
* even moving slowly on my weight goal is at least an accomplishment.
* I have a strange feeling there is going to be something awesome at this Super Bowl.
* the NHL All-Star game is so much more fun than the NFL Pro Bowl.
* if you like porn stars you better get on Twitter.
* after January Jones' Golden Globes outfit you were really disappointed by her SAG dress.
* SAG dress sounds kind of funny.
* any NBA back door action is fun.
* it so effing on right now.
* only drug dealers are going to go medieval in trying to beat the US.
* Amos Lee is a pretty bad ass singer and if you don't believe me you haven't heard his new album Mission Bell.
* you don't know what movie this quote is from, "What? I didn't *break* it, I was just testing its durability, and then I *placed* it in the woods because it's made of wood and I just thought he should be with his family."
* it is important to take a grease fire seriously.
* strife in Egypt is going to lead to a tumultuous 2011.

We're taking bets that I've been doing some reading...

Here are the books I have read so far in 2011.

* The Unbelievers by Alastair Sim - A neat book about a Victorian era detective in Scotland. It has a really twisted ending that made the book a little weird, but it was enjoyable.
* Warlord by Ted Bell - Another great Alexander Hawke adventure. He is a cool James Bond type, but he has cooler friends.
* Squirrel seeking Chipmunk by David Sedaris - Fun little short stories using animals to tell the tales. Kind of a modern day Aesop's Fables.
* Shoot to Thrill by P.J. Tracy - The Monkeewrench crew is back for another adventure into murder and computers.
* City of Glass by Cassandra Clare - The completion of the Mortal Instruments trilogy. It has some cool characters and will probably be a neat movie.

In the process of reading:

Secrets of a Buccaneer Scholar by James Marcus Bach
Best American Non-Required Reading 2011 edited by David Eggers
Nine Dragons by Michael Connolly

We're taking bets that you can have an impact...

Here are a few observations I have had over the last few days.

* One of my favorite teachers in college passed away today. Dr. Peter Hess of Western New England College was more than just a professor. He was a mentor, a great basketball player, a friend and from what I heard and believed an unbelievable family man. It is amazing how much a professor/administrator from college can impact your life. I am glad that I got to spend some time with him and every time I came back to WNEC he always said hello when he saw me and talked to me for a little while. Thanks for everything Professor Hess and I hope heaven is treating you well.

* The unrest in Tunisia and Egypt is kind of scary. While I completely support these countries right to democracy and freedom, a lot of people are going to get hurt. I think what scares me most is revolutions will probably never stop. There will always be oppressors and people standing up to them. Peace on earth is something I do not believe we will ever see no matter how much beauty pageant contests wish for it. I think that is why I believe more Americans need to pay attention to politics and get involved. We have a pretty good system in the United States, but we are only getting involved every four years. Things happen all the time and not just every four years. I just hope that the people of Tunisia get what they want and more importantly what they deserve.

* On a more fun note I am really impressed with the NHL All-Star game draft. I think that is a really cool way to get more interest in the game. I remember playing NHL '94 and trying to put together an all star roster. This is a great way to get to see your dream line-ups. I think that all sports should do this. It would really spice things up and definitely make me more interested in the games.

* I watched Kevin Hart on Comedy Central again tonight. I really enjoy his comedy. He is just hilarious. I still think his ostrich bit is his best, but everything is funny. Hopefully this will make you laugh again.

WTBT Volume 10, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* it is sometimes better to just agree then go back and forth.
* I didn't always agree with that statement in the past.
* "Soda Pot" definitely could be the next college craze.
* there is no way that could taste good.
* the Patriots will be in the AFC Championship game next year.
* the TV shows Hoarders and Hoarding: Buried Alive freak you out, but if you see they are on you want to watch.
* just because it is free to get books from the library doesn't mean you can keep them forever.
* I understand that Jay Cutler was hurt, but can't the guy have any emotion trying to root his team to victory?
* it is a sad state of affairs when more people are going to be pissed tomorrow that their tv shows are preempted for the State of the Union address than people who actually want to hear what the president says.
* I am not a big fan of dressing up your dogs, but this Che Guevara dog is kind of neat.
* if people did not have weather, sports or causes to talk about no one would put up anything on Facebook.
* is a little bit of an exaggeration, but check your last fifty posts and see how many of them were about one of those things.

WTBT Volume 9, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* I am awful at predictions, but I have two more. Packers over Bears 34 -21, Steelers over Jets 28-24
* you are getting old if you remember when St. John's was a very good basketball team.
* Obama's state of the union address will uplift him to a successful two years until his next term.
* "Off the Map" is a pretty good show, but I worry like Grey's Anatomy Shonda Rimes is going to ruin it with stupid forced love drama.
* if you didn't see the dead spot at the Australian Open you are going to be amazed to watch this video.
* even if you are a super liberal you don't really care that Keith Olbermann is no longer on MSNBC and you don't care why.
* there is such thing as too far on both sides of the political aisle.
* snow terrorists are happening and I bet many people in the Northeast think this would be a good idea.
* the teacher that let two second graders perform oral sex on each other might be the sickest person in America.
* you didn't even play doctor in second grade.
* what makes college basketball so much fun is that being ranked number one usually means you are going to lose in your next two or three games.
* you are getting old if you remember when pencil wars was cool.
* I really like the new Snickers commercial with the sharks in a focus group.

We're taking bets that this is the world we live in...

Here are a couple of thoughts I have about things that have happened the last few days.

* So I was briefly watching the new woman talk show The Talk on CBS. They showed the clip of the girl falling into the mall pool while texting. They all were appalled that it was the security guards put the tape on YouTube. They even said that they should have been keeping the mall secure. Now I am pretty impressed they were watching the video tape. Doesn't that mean they were keeping the mall secure? How can they be surprised that this was posted on the internet? We have had America's Funniest Home Videos since we all thought the Olsen twins were cute. Stuff like this is funny and one of the best things we do is commentate things that happen. Remember Mystery Science 3000? It made bad movies funny. This was funny and she was texting. If it was a video of her walking into a baby carriage knocking over a child you would be appalled and yelling about the evils of technology. But God forbid someone makes fun of someone falling into a mall pool. When I was a little kid my younger Uncle (yes I have an uncle who is younger than me) and he fell into the Holyoke Mall fountain (yes they used to have fountains). If I had that on video I would have put it on the internet (no there was no internet at that time. Al Gore hadn't invented it yet.). Just thinking about it puts a smile on my face. I believe that we have too many talk shows that try to scare people or try to act like the people on the show have higher moral character than the rest of us. Falling into a pool is funny 99.5 % of the time especially if no one really gets hurt.

* Have you seen the new CBS Cares commercial for checking for testicular cancer? I believe this is an important topic and all men should check their boys for any issues, but come on, "Give the gift of the family jewels," for Valentine's Day. The guy is in a creepy silk robe and looks like he is a cheap porn star. (I bet many of you are wondering what I know about cheap porn) I don't know one person that will actually go to the website to check about testicular cancer. At least NBC's "The More You Know..." campaign actually taught you something. How do I check? What do I do? Who do I see? The only positive thing I can think of is that I am talking about this and maybe it will save a life for someone who reads this blog like James Lipscomb or Brian Walach when they check their balls for irregularities. CBSCares... I think not.

* Did you see the kid Jacee Badeaux on American Idol tonight? He was absolutely amazing. He was only 15 and he put Bieber to shame. His rendition of "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" actually gave me chills. I know they are being a lot nicer on AI this year, but I actually think they might get a singing star out of this competition. They are working hard to try to get a pop star the likes of Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson. Now Steven Tyler completely freaks me out, but he says some funny stuff and JLo is nuturing like Paula Abdul was. I think they tried to find two stars that had the best parts of her to bring the show back. The weird thing about this year's AI is that Randy's kind of being an asshole. Maybe we didn't realize because there was Simon, but he is truly being the mean one. I don't know if it fits him, but I keep waiting him to make an offensive comment that is going to put him in hot water. Are you watching AI this year? What do you think?

* We all know that music videos have pretty much died and were buried. I miss videos like Genesis' "Land of Confusion" or Human League's "Don't You Want Me". I mean they were weird, but at least there was some imagination and creativity. I really feel that P!nk is the only person really making good music videos today. Have you seen her new music video for F@#kin Perfect? It is jarring and amazing. It makes me appreciate her song even more than I did because I am able to understand the song better. That is what the best videos did. Why can't we have that anymore? I guess what I have come to realize is that P!nk is one of my heroes. She has found a way to say what needs to be said in a way that millions of people can hear it and feel empowered. Just read what she wrote about the video she made below. It's raw truth brings me to tears and deals with a topic many of us are too afraid to talk about. If I can do for one person what P!nk has done for me I will be able to leave this earth fulfilled.

WTBT Volume 8, Series 2011

We're taking bets that...

* you loved seeing the girl fall in the fountain at a mall while texting.
* tomorrow is going to be a big day for me.
* Inside Man is an excellent movie and I would love to see a sequel.
* Carmelo Anthony is almost as bad as Lebron was last summer.
* Catwoman and Bane are going to be pretty bad ass in the next Batman sequel.
* the fact that Trinity men's squash has not lost since 1998 is pretty damn amazing.
* American Idol was actually pretty interesting tonight.
* some criminals cannot catch a break.
* there are not too many things I can think of that are more gross than snorting human remains.
* a team from Texas is going to win the NBA championship this year.
* you are getting old if you remember when Kristy McNicol was considered a hottie.
* when you make lemonade you will always squeeze a few lemons.

WTBT Volume 7, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* it is important to pay attention during any training or professional development because you never know when you are going to need it.
* January Jones had the best Golden Globes at the Golden Globes.
* the President's meeting with the Chinese President will affect our relations for the next 10 years.
* I don't think "gringo" is really a bad word, but it shouldn't have been used by an NPR commentator.
* radical Republicans are going to make this "gringo" thing too big a deal.
* you are getting old if you remember when Voltron was actually cool.
* Venus Williams only wears a dress while playing tennis because they make her.
* you can't believe that Regis is actually retiring from his talk show.
* I think that George Clooney would be the perfect replacement.
* you are freaked out and excited that the Japanese are going to try to clone/rebirth the Woolly Mammoth.
* I could actually like the Jets and how they play if they all were not such assholes.
* you are surprised I used a swear in my blog.
* R. Sargent Shriver did more to help this country and our global community than any other person over the last 50 years.
* is not a slight to any other leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. or Mother Theresa, but a complete truth.
* you better watch out for exploding lids.
* my not having a cell phone isn't to shirk technology, but rather to stay more connected to people.
* sounds weird, but it is true.

We're taking bets that I cannot make this stuff up...

Hi everyone!!! I have a little story to tell that happened to me today at 8:05 pm Monday January 17, 2010.

I was preparing some ground turkey so that Theresa and I could have turkey tacos. Theresa was at her Monday night Zumba class and was not going to be home until about 8:20 ish. Oddly Theresa forgot her cell phone and had a billion missed phone calls. (slight exaggeration) "How I Met Your Mother" was on TV and I was working away.

I heard the front door opening and my back was to the sink as I was draining the browned turkey meat. I went back to the stove and didn't look at the front door. The door closed and I thought it was weird that Theresa didn't say anything as she almost always says, "Hi Honey" when she comes in. I look up and there was a six foot Caucasian male standing in my living room. He was wearing a tan Carhartt jacket, a white snow hat, jeans and boots. I asked him what he was doing and he looked at me with a very confused look. I instantly could tell he was intoxicated and this could be an amazingly interesting encounter.

I immediately reverted to my Residence Life training and became the RHD of my own house. I extended my hand to him which he shook. He absolutely reeked of alcohol(no exaggeration) and was slightly unbalanced. I asked him where he lived and he said that all the houses on this street looked alike. That is kind of true in the dark. He asked me if his friend was here and I told him no. He then asked me about a Judy whom I do not know. As we were talking I slowly was walking him to the front door. I got him out the door as he reassured me that he was a nice guy. Once he was on the stoop I noticed that his scooter was running and parked in front of our steps. This amazed me that he had gotten it there without going over any snow in our yard. He must be a very functional drunk because we found out that he drove at least 3 miles before ending up in my house.

So, he was standing on our front stoop and I could not close the storm door. He asks me if I have any cigarettes and I told him I do not smoke. He smiles and tells me his name is Andy. He starts to tell me that he has four cigarettes in my house after he checked his body. We go back and forth for a little while before he stops me and says, "You are so thickheaded you keep focusing on the "Don't Have" before I can explain myself." I then ask him to tell me where the cigarettes are and I will get them for him. He says never mind and walks to the scooter. I tell him to be safe and not drive. I then shake his hand and tell him to have a good night.

I close the door and lock it. I immediately run to the phone and the computer. I find the number for the EHPD and call the main line. (I didn't think it warranted a 911 call) The officer on the line is very helpful and says he is sending someone right out. I then go to our middle bedroom and look out the window to see what he is doing. He is trying to move the bike, but keeps getting frustrated as he is moving towards the snow. He then turns off the bike and I see a car approaching our house. It is Theresa who is coming back from Zumba and does not have her cell phone. I run to the living room and open the shade for the window facing the driveway. I see her rolling down her car window to talk to the man. I wave frantically to her to leave the driveway and go somewhere else. (Oddly enough this is another time that someone with a cellphone would have been helpful, but they didn't have it. Strange and just shows that cellphones aren't as helpful as you think.) She notices me and closes the window and leaves.

Now I think Theresa was scared and didn't know what to do because she circled the block and 30 seconds later was coming back down the street. Thankfully East Haven's finest was behind her and pulled up to the house. A woman officer got out and talked to the guy who was still trying to figure out his scooter. A minute later a second cruiser pulled up and a male officer got out. I was standing in the doorway as the second officer came up and asked me what happened. I explained the story. Meanwhile Theresa is parked in front of the house not know what to do. She finally decides to come into the house and walks past them. A little while the later the female officer comes into the house to get an official statement and all of my info. She was excellent. She told us that he was drinking at a bar and that he thought Theresa was his girlfriend. They decided to get an ambulance to take him to detox and tow his scooter. They convinced him to wait in the cruiser, but the officer thought he was going to put up a fight if he saw the tow truck so they waited until the ambulance took him away.

Now many of you are going to ask why the door was not locked and if I live in a dangerous part of town. Well it is the first time in recent memory that Theresa did not lock the front door when she left. She sometimes even locks me out when I am putting out the garbage. She is really paranoid about it to the point that I sometimes make fun. Well let me tell you the teasing will now stop. We live in a great neighborhood with practically no crime and very nice neighbors. I think this was just a freak incident.

I am blessed that Theresa was not the only one home when this happened and it was me. I have realized that I am very good in crisis situations and know how to deal with all types of people. Sometimes situations happen that you cannot even believe. Working on a college campus it happens more than you think, but I never expected this to happen in my own house. My life is truly wacky wild Kool-Aid style sometimes and I truly hope that the excitement never ends. Of course I also hope that they all end like this with a Happy Ending.

WTBT Volume 6, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* you can't take anything for granted in the NFL Playoffs.
* tomorrow is an important day for all Americans to reflect on their commitment to openness and a hate free society.
* the stuff going on in Tunisia is pretty wild.
* any article that has sperm killers in the title is a must read for most men.
* you are kind of excited for American Idol and their new judges panel.
* Jay Cutler is only an average quarterback even if he makes the Super Bowl.
* even if you hate Ohio State football as I do this is a pretty cool achievement.
* Legos are still awesome.
* you are getting tired of seeing Jared Loughner's creepy face.
* it is amazing that idiots keep getting high profile jobs and are allowed to continue those jobs after saying offensive and idiotic things.
* the Yankees will be in trouble if Andy Pettitte does not play for them this year.
* you are getting old if you remember this quote, "It's a dog eat dog world and I am wearing MilkBone underpants."
* if you are an elephant you should be comforted that you won't get in trouble for accidentally crushing your trainer.
* it amazes you that people are always shocked when wild animals in the zoo accidentally kill someone.

We're taking bets that you need to use conditioner...

Here are another set of quick observations that I have. I hope you enjoy them.

* I know that most men do not use conditioner. I do not understand why. It makes your hair and scalp feel great. I think that even if you are bald or balding you can use conditioner for your scalp. I know not all of you have great locks like Chris Rader and I, but you could. Just a dap of conditioner after a nice shampooing. Work it in and let it sit. I am sure most women already know this, but it is worth it. Guys give it a try.

* SNL is still a great show even though everyone wishes it was like the old days. Even in the old days there were times it really stunk. I don't think we appreciate all of the funny until after the fact. Just think about how hard you laugh over something that happened in high school or college now. Whenever I watch the VH-1 SNL retrospectives I laugh hysterically. Don't you wish we could laugh like that in the moment every time? It would make us all a lot happier.

* There are a lot of people pointing blame for the Arizona shooting. The one group that is getting the brunt of the blame is the community college. I believe they did everything they could. They told him he couldn't be a part of their community until he got help. How is it there responsibility to go any further. When you are working with 18 to 22 year olds you want to help them the best you can without doing everything for them. The blame needs to be squarely on Jared Loughner and no one else. Crazy happens and we need to do the best we can to stop it. Sometimes it just isn't possible. Stop placing blame people.

* The Golden Globes are on tomorrow and I am very excited. It probably is the best award show on TV. Ricky Gervais is absolutely the perfect host. He takes digs at everyone and all of Hollywood needs someone like him to keep their egos in check. I just hope that my Pats don't need extra time and make me miss any of the show.

WTBT Volume 5, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* you are getting old if you used to read this column in the Westerner newspaper.
* this idiot deserves to be punished for the very least stupidity.
* sentence sounds funny.
* if you are a UConn Football fan you are happy with the hiring of Paul Pasqualoni as head coach.
* there has to be a pretty strict dress code at this school.
* you miss the Muppets on TV.
* this might be the quickest way to not get re-elected four years from now.
* you can't believe he used the "I have a black child" card as his defense for stupid comments.
* people need to relax about the new horoscope thing.
* it is time for my playoff picks:
- 1-3 last week
- Steelers in a close game because that is the only type of play-off games they play.
- Packers because I think it is time for Aaron Rodgers to become a great QB.
- Seahawks because we need a Cinderella story.
- Patriots because they are my team playing in Foxboro against my least favorite team.
* you wonder if he gets a golden potato as his award.
* Green Hornet will be a fun movie to watch on a cold January day.

We're taking bets that a snow pile over a foot on your car is dangerous...

Here are a few more observations that I have. I hope you enjoy them.

* I understand we had a lot of snow in the northeast the last couple of days, but some people are ridiculous. If you have a pile of snow on your roof that is larger than 3/4 of a ruler you need to clean it off. I would say even a 1/2, but I will give you some slack. It is dangerous to every other driver around you. You might not care about others, but you are part of a community. Even if you are a little person someone would have helped. Clean off your cars people.

* I think that Reggie Jackson might be my new favorite person. Check out this article. He was responding to the idiotic remarks of Antonio Cromartie of the New York Jets. Here is my favorite quote...

"Don't [be] mad because I get excited because I did well. Or try to pretend like I'm acting some way because I dropped 40 on you in the first three quarters," Jackson said. "This guy threw 50 touchdown passes in one year. He won three Super Bowls. Was he embarrassing to people when he was excited because he won? You don't know what he's talking about because you've never won. So don't tell me how he thinks. You don't know. Acknowledge that. That's not my opinion, that's fact."

* Some days you just need to recite the "God grant me the serenity" prayer. Too many of us try to change what is not in our control and forget about what is in our control. I am doing every thing I can to become employed; preferably in a college or university where I can be of assistance to students. I can only change me, my resume, and my cover letter. Right now I am focusing on the me. Not a overhaul, but some tweaks that will hopefully help me. If you have any constructive feedback to give me please let me know. I know a lot of my faults and try to tackle them everyday, but I know there is more I can do. Some day some one will choose me to work for them and until that day I have the wisdom to try and be happy because I control that aspect of my life.

We're taking bets that you need to listen...

If you have not seen this yet as an intelligent American or human being you need to watch and listen.

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart	Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c
Arizona Shootings Reaction
http://www.thedailyshow.com/
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WTBT Volume 4, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* not having to get up to hear that it is a snow day is awesome.
* this job search is getting frustrating, but I am working to have good days.
* Rex Ryan's mouth is going to lead to the Patriots destroying the Jets.
* it is weird that some news site keep trying to give the Arizona shooting suspect a middle name to make him sound like other assassins.
* they must of watch Conspiracy Theory and believe it was a true story.
* Samantha from Jersey Shore is the worst part of that show.
* it melts in your mouth, not it your hands.
* TCU probably would have beat Auburn.
* only Vermont would be willing to fight McDonald's over maple.
* Carmelo Anthony would be foolish to sign with the Nets.
* you are getting old if you think Tecmo Super Bowl was the best football video game ever.
* Buffalo Wild Wings is a restaurant name and not a way to act.
* Michigan got lucky that Brady Hoke took the job because they would have been screwed otherwise.

We're taking bets that we have stuff to think about...

Here are a few things to contemplate. Debate them here or talk with friends, family and colleagues. We don't really talk about things any more so I thought I would throw out a few fun topics.

* Is freedom of speech starting to become too big a risk in our society? I think freedom of speech is what makes the US the greatest place in the world, but when it is accompanied by violence it is no longer free speech.

* What makes a genius head coach in football? Is it a head coach who gets his team to execute his game plan perfectly or a head coach who has a perfect game plan that even executed badly can still work?

* What is a scarier disease that has no cure currently? Alzheimer's or All Cancers. To debate it would be stupid, because they are both awful, but I think I am more scared of the former.

* Is there really a price of gas where you won't drive anymore? I think that having a car gives us more freedom than we ever imagined possible. I cannot imagine giving up driving under any circumstances, which I know is financially crazy. Maybe if gas gets to $5 I will pause before going somewhere.

WTBT Volume 3, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* it is fun being a jinx sometimes.
* Marshawn Lynch's run yesterday was the best I have scene since Barry Sanders was wearing the blue and silver.
* the shooting in Arizona has really made you question what type of society we are becoming.
* if you want to be eco-friendly you better not grow too many veggies.
* Aaron Rodgers is slowing becoming one of the top 5 QBs in the NFL.
* fighting the police with swords is probably going to get you shot.
* I am kind of looking forward to seeing Green Hornet.
* the Nets will still stink even if they get Carmelo.
* Jim Carrey was very funny on SNL and needs to make a comedy comeback.
* if you are a school teacher in Southern CT you are excited more snow is coming on Wednesday.
* Jets-Patriots will be must see TV on Sunday.
* you hope The Cape is not a dud like the last three seasons of Heroes.

We're taking bets that driving is dangerous if you are stupid...

Here are a few thoughts and rants I have had over the past few days.

* Why do people drive like maniacs in parking lots? People forget there are two lanes and that you should not block traffic. Additionally it would be nice if you only drove 10 mph or less because there are pedestrians everywhere. People have seem to lost the ability to turn into a parking space at a close to 90 degree angle and everyone seems to be parked crookedly. Can you also stop looking at me like i have done something wrong when I look annoyed because you are waiting for someone to pull out and you are blocking the entire driving lane? I am just asking because I may have to bump you. I have an old SUV and don't care about scratches anymore.

* Most of you are not paying attention to the House of Representatives and the Republican's attempts to repeal the new Health Care bill. You better start finding out about this. The repeal will cost us billions of dollars that will just be added to the debt. There are a lot of great things in this bill and it probably is going to get screwed by political tactics. I know that most of you vote and then let things happen for the next two years, but you should be aware of what is going on and get involved. Call or e-mail your congressmen. Do something. We are finally moving in the right direction with health care costs(though a lot more needs and should have been done) and we can't let it stop.

* It's wild card weekend in the NFL and there are some really great games. I think that each of them are going to be close going into halftime and there are going to be a ton of surprises. Here are my picks for the weekend.

- Saturday: New Orleans; Indianapolis (last second TD)
- Sunday: Kansas City; Green Bay (Michael Vick will get hurt early)

* I am beginning to agree with the governor of Philadelphia that we are becoming a nation of wussies. We are over medicating our kids so that they don't have to take responsibility for their lives. We cancel school and everything else at the slightest bit of snow because people are going to complain their kids are in danger. Heck it didn't start snowing until 2:15 here in East Haven and kids were already home because they already ended school early. It snows nearly every day in Buffalo but they don't close schools. If they did that in Buffalo there would be no educated kids or they would have to have school in the summer. Can we start strengthening up and tough some things out? Please.

WTBT Volume 2, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* sometimes you need a toilet big enough to sit.
* under no circumstances should Ohio State's players who broke the rules should have played in tonight's Sugar Bowl.
* MegaMillions was creepy having all of those LOST numbers.
* there has to be a better way to celebrate raccoon hunting than a "Coon Hunter" license plate.
* I didn't tell you that this is the state my parents now live in.
* the firing of all these NFL coaches and college coaches is weird especially since some of them are just starting to field better teams.
* we need too much instant gratification.
* I sure hope UConn hires a great coach who can bring them to a BCS bowl in his first season.
* was just to make a point.
* it is fun to accept a challenge even if you were going to do it anyway.
* you are shocked to know that Brett Favre isn't the single season passing yardage leader for the Green Bay Packers.
* those massage therapists are about three years too late to sue the NY Jets and Brett Favre and win.
* I am pretty sure you are going to hurt yourself loading a cannon.
* the phone never rings when you want it to.
* I really hate Ohio State.
* of course if they were offering me a job I would be a Buckeye for life.

We're taking bets that it is time for resolutions for 2011...

Here are my 2011 New Year's resolutions in no particular order:

1. I will lose 35 pounds by June 1 and 60 pounds by Dec. 15.
2. I will blog at least 20 times each month.
3. I will find gainful employment.
4. I will strengthen my connection and commitment to Theresa.
5. I will find ways to get more people to read my blog at www.weretakingbetsthat.blogspot.com than through Facebook.
6. I will stand up to injustice and intolerance any time I get a chance.
7. I will make at least 5 new friends.
8. I will find new ways to keep a closer connection to my family.

WTBT Volume 1, Series 2011...

We're taking bets that...

* a lot of people are too excited about all the ones in the date.
* November will have even more ones in the date.
* Kyle Chandler of Friday Night Lights has a great voice for commercials as heard in the new Lays commercials.
* the flood in Australia is kind of Old Testament scary.
* the Old Testament did have the worst natural disasters.
* it's tough to change a seven year old's mind when their parent is teaching them racism.
* North Korea will make this the scariest year we have had since after 9/11 in 2001/2.
* minivan drivers might be the craziest I have encountered this holiday season as I had three pass me going at least 85 when I was going about 78.
* I am loving the new Discover commercials with the old college football coaches.
* watching college and professional sports really makes you watch a lot of commercials.
* the UConn BCS game will be closer than anyone thinks. (PS ~ This was posted before the game, but Facebook takes forever to post it.)
* Lindsay Lohan will have another major meltdown this year.
* Auld Lang Syne is a weird song, but it makes me happy every new year.
* The Fighter was the best movie I saw in 2010.
* you want a panda cow for a pet.
*

WTBT Volume 10 Series 2010...

We're taking bets that...

* Only the Saints and Falcons have a shot in the NFC.
* you should be arrested or fined for shoveling your snow into the street.
* wrestling women for money should be a TV show that leads into Monday Night Football.
* you don't understand why it is so hard to remove snow.
* the ski-lift dropping in Sugarloaf (Maine) seemed pretty scary.
* this guy deserves to be beating or whipped in public.
* parents who name their children Jody deserve to be punished.
* sometimes a zipper is really not your friend.
* news must be pretty slow in New Zealand for this story to have aired.
* if Joe Webb is not nicknamed Spidey there is something wrong with his teammates.
* Natalie Portman being off the market and pregnant is the most devastating woman news since Jessica Alba got pregnant.
* if you watch Dick Clark on New Year's Eve you will be creeped out for at least a week.
* this guy will probably not have sex with a woman again.
* he will probably have plenty of sex in prison though.
* I feel like the 27 year difference was the main reason for the shooting.
* you can't believe that 2010 is almost over.
* you are pretty damn excited for a rocking 2011!!!

We're taking bets that this is one of the most fun ways to celebrate music...

Here is the annual Top 25 song mash up by DJ EarWorm and one by DJ McFly.

WTBT Volume 9 Series 2010...

We're taking bets that...

* driving in a blizzard can be fun and scary at the same time.
* it is fun to see a car crash when all of the passengers are not hurt.
* the Giants and Jets just are not that good.
* babies are just too damn cute this time of year.
* Santa Claus is not really naughty.
* people who ate driving in a blizzard or any snowstorm for that matter should have their lights on.
* you don't know why people use the term, "for that matter."
* the NBA play-offs might be the best they have been since the mid 80's this year.
* True Grit was a good movie with great acting, but you leave the theater thinking "that's it."
* if you bury a time capsule you better remember where you put it.
* no one really cares that the Heat beat the Lakers this early in the season.
* the Detroit Lions will make the play-offs as a wild card next year and you heard it here first.
* having a tradition with your best friend is heartwarming and a lot of fun.

WTBT Volume 8 Series 2010...

We're taking bets that...

* people of all ages has to love how NORAD tracks Santa Claus every year.
* the new look Orlando Magic may be a great team come play-off time.
* shopping on Christmas Eve with a significant other can test a relationship.
* the "lame duck" Congress got more done in the last two weeks than it did in the last two years with Obama as President.
* if you have not seen this free throw you have not seen amazing.
* I think 2011 is going to be a better one for me financially.
* this is as nice of a story as you will find.
* watching Theresa sing tonight is going to be one of my highlights for this Christmas season.
* sometimes a story about human feces isn't really about human feces.
* you gotta love the picture in that article.
* the UConn women will get to 100 wins in a row.
* violence should never happen, but during the holidays it is even worse so be good to everyone.

WTBT Favorite Books of 2010...

Here are my favorite books that I read this year. It is a much shorter list and some of the books were published earlier than 2010, but this is the year I read them. So if you don't like it then you can get a papercut on your tongue. :)

10. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien - I can't believe I had not read this book. This is what fantasy is supposed to be like.
9. Moonlight Mile by Dennis Lehane - I love Kenzie and Gennaro. This book makes me miss this great detective series and want to read them again from the beginning.
8. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins - The last of the Hunger Games book was completely amazing and gave me a great sense of satisfaction.
7. Gone Tomorrow by Lee Child - A great Jack Reacher novel. I am almost up to date on his books.
6. The Reversal by Michael Connelly - I love his books and with the duo of Haller and Bosch working together it makes it even better.
5. The Help by Kathryn Stockett - An amazing book that weaves stories into one person's life and might change your life forever.
4. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins - Totally changes direction after the Hunger Games and hooks me deeper into this amazing world.
3. It's Not Just Who You Know by Tommy Spaulding - A great book that teaches you how to find deeper and more meaningful friendships.
2. Percy Jackson and the Last Olympian by Rick Riordan - A totally satisfying conclusion to a fun adventure series. The books are such a great twist on Greek mythology.
1. Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - This book started me on one of the best adventures I have encountered in a long time. Such smart writing and deep characters.