One more reason to hate Chicago and other observations

Hi There. Well the return trip from North Carolina on Saturday was a joy! NOT! As any flier knows, when there are delays at Chicago's O'Hare Airport the rest of the country suffers. I was supposed to arrive back in the area around 8pm, but ended up getting home just before midnight.
The new laptop is awesome and I've managed to hook up a printer to go with it. Now if my father could remember the password so I can use the wireless network in my home, I'll be golden. I'm the first to admit, I'm not tech savy but I'm trying to learn and come into the 21st century.
While driving to the office this morning, I tuned into Bristol Tech radio and E.K. was co-hosting the morning show with Linda Cohn. That was cool. I also have to give props to Steven A. Smith who I also refer to as "The Fresh Prince of Sports Talk." He also co-hosted with E.K. and it was a good listen.
O.K what NFL team sucked on the bigger gas pipe? The Jets or the Broncos? It doesn't matter because both Eric Mangini and Mike Shanahan got canned. As a Giants fan I'm begging Jerry Reese to do what it takes to keep Steve Spagnuolo as D-Coordinator and not let him leave for a head job somewhere.
In honor of the big day for football bowl games I'm giving you an upset special. Because I'm a fan of Big East football (Hey, somebody's got to like 'em) I'll take the Cincinnati Bearcats over the Va Tech Hokies in the Orange Bowl. Speaking of Big East, how 'bout them Rutgers Scarlet Knights! 7 straight wins and a victory over NC State. I did get my niece to say "Go Rutgers!" before I left. Her cousin goes to school at NC State and she went to the bowl game in Alabama. Morgan say that to your cousin next time you see her.
If you ask me what the biggest sports story of 2008 was I'll have to go with the Tampa Rays winning the American League Championship. It wasn't the Giants Superbowl win, Eldrick the Gimp or the Celtics. Michael Phelps comes in a close second.
I making the usual New Years resolutions. You've probably attempted some or all of them. Lose weight. Eat healthier. Save money. Be more tolerant and nicer to people in general. You get the general idea
My voice is fine after calling 4 hockey games in 2 days at the Grandstanders Hockey Tournament. Thanks to "The Big Whistle" Dave Thomas for filling in while Brian was under the weather. It was great to have you back in the booth these past two days Festus.
I'm ringing in 2009 by going to bed early. SNY is replaying the Rutgers game so maybe I'll watch some of it before I go to sleep. Then New Years day I'll be tuned into the NHL Winter Classic between the Redwings and Blackhawks at Wrigley Field. Am I a party animal or what? See you in 2009...Leccese out.

The first entry from my new laptop and some upset specials

Hi There and Merry Christmas. This entry is coming to you from Cary NC where it's sunny and in the mid 60's and best of all no NO SNOW ANYWHERE! Here I am at my sisters' home typing away on my new laptop. This thing is great! I can't wait to get it home. Now for some upset specials. Even though I'm hoping they lose, I'll throw the Lions a bone and have them beat the Pack at the frozen tundra and since I didn't have one for you last week I'll double up and have the Chiefs knock off the Cincinnati Bungals .
Christmas is definitely for kids and my niece Morgan is playing with all the stuff Santa brought her. I'm discovering she likes some robot called Wall-e, animals, and fish. I also learned that 3 year olds have this reserve energy that is hard to explain. Just when you think they are dead tired, the back up battery kicks in they become wired again. They also don't eat much to attain this maximum power.
Bill Cosby once said of his parents that when they became grandparents something changed about them. He tried to explain to his kids that they were not same people he grew up with. They are only acting that way to get into heaven. My mom and dad are officially trying to get into heaven the way they respond to and play with Morgan.
Enjoy the rest of the holiday and I'll be back on Sunday...Leccese out.

Maybe I should have asked Santa for a snow blower instead of a laptop

Hi There. My back is aching and the snow is up to mid thigh. Is it too late to return the computer I'm getting for Christmas and exchange it for a snow blower? There is no amount of over the counter extra strength pain relievers to make you feel better after shoveling and clearing paths of snow when the white stuff is 30 plus inches deep. I believe the day you officially start hating snow is the day you get your drivers license. I was driving home Friday night during the worst of it fearing for my life and I found it amazing that those semi-drivers from the Great White North are driving on the Northway like it was a pleasant summer evening. Those guys must have learned how to drive from those ice road truckers you see on the Discovery Channel. No fear in them what so ever.
Only the National Football League would penalize a player for making a snow angel after scoring a touchdown like they did yesterday to Wes Welker.
Tell the people at Reebok to bring back long sleeve football jerseys with the pockets in them to keep your hands warm. Wearing those muffs around your waist is like when you were a kid and wore a ski mask to keep your face warm. Those put an automatic bulls eye on you during a snowball fight.
First the Mets and now the J-E-T-S. Its nice to know that both former tenants of Shea Stadium (may it rest in peace) took the gas pipe this year. Speaking of Shea, here's another reason why New York State is over regulated and no fun. I saw the video of the RCA Dome in Indiana being imploded. I think Shea deserved that same sendoff. Put some weapons grade explosives in the right places and BOOM! Down it comes in no time. However New York law does not allow it. Party poopers!
I'm headed to Cary, North Carolina for Christmas which is right next to the NC State campus in Raleigh. Can't wait to drive around town with my Rutgers fleece jacket on. Bring it on.
I echo the sentiment of Dan after reading the report of the Philadelphia Phantoms possibly coming to the Civic Center in Saturdays PostStar. No Comment.
I bought a "Charlie Brown Christmas" and after watching, it can be pretty depressing. However after 40 plus years much of the message stills holds true.
Enjoy the holiday and maybe the next entry you get will come from my new laptop, unless I get that snow blower after all...Leccese out.

Welcome to the Island of Misfit Toys and other Observations

Hi There. You have 8 more shopping days til Christmas. How's it going? First I want to thank everybody who contributed, helped out, adopted children or pitched in with our Operation Santa Claus campaign. I am truly amazed by this areas' propensity for giving. Nice job everyone.
O.K. enough with the mush on to more pressing and humorous things.
The Giants have dropped their last two including the upset special I gave you. They can't win without Brandon Jacobs in the lineup. The big guy not playing against the Cowboys exposed the offensive line. Also Sal Pal at Bristol Tech had an interesting observation regarding Big Blue. Last year Eagles d-coordinator Jim Johnson found the clink in the Patriots armour and he's done it again this year with the Giants. How come no one has interviewed this guy for a head job in the NFL?
Sam Bradford won the Heisman. Fine, but how could Graham Harrell from Texas Tech not be included?
So Arena Football decided to suspend operations for the 2009 season. That's like if a tree fell in the woods and no one was around, would anybody hear it?
Watching the Buffalo Bills snatch defeat from the jaws of victory Sunday against the Jets reminded me of the Pisarcik to Csonka hand off 30 years ago at Giants Stadium.
Got to give the Dallas Stars credit for severing the ties with Sean Avery. How come no women's groups are applauding this decision? As much as I hate to admit it, the commercial the NHL is running for the Winter Classic at Wrigley Field on January 1st is great even with Bob Costas' voice on the tag. I may have to rescind my earlier decision and watch some of it after all.
One job I'm glad I don't have. Head coach in the NBA. Reggie Theus got the ax as the Kings head coach and that makes already 6 coaches given the ziggy. I'm surprised that Nets head man Lawrence Frank hasn't been among them.
I've been trying hard, but I just can't get into this season of "Top Chef." Sorry Tom Colicchio. If there is any consolation, I still read your blog every week.
I've read where vandals in LA are defacing the movie poster for "Marley and Me" with "The dog dies." These same people probably defaced posters for "Titanic" with "The boat sinks." A Charlie Brown Christmas is on tonight, which is my favorite animated holiday special... Good Grief, Leccese out.

Greetings from the Winter Meetings and other random thoughts

Hi There. To quote my good friend John Pratt who works on the sister station, "Yeah, I'm a slacker." Normally I'd give you a Monday entry, but to be perfectly honest with you, I had nothing. Well 3 days have past and I do have something.
We'll start with baseball's winter meetings. I don't know what to make of the Mets signing of Francisco Rodriguez. Is Omar Minaya brilliant for getting him at a reduced price or frugal after what the Yankees overpaid for C.C.Sabathia? There really hasn't been much action at the winter meetings. A couple of trades here and there. The biggest fear I have is with the lack of movement, you wonder if Don Fehr and the players association are planning to cry collusion against the owners again.
The economy must be suffering if the NFL is laying off employees. Did you hear about Arena Football? There are rumors it's going belly up.
Some advice to Syracuse University. After what happened at Rutgers Wednesday if you're unable to lock up Turner Gill as your new football coach, I'd put in a call to Greg Schiano to see if he's interested. A witch hunt has begun in Piscataway NJ and I have this feeling Coach Greg is next in line. Letting Bob Mulcahy go was a mistake of gigantic proportions.
I wish everybody would get their hands out of the bail out cookie jar. The U.S. auto industry has no one to blame but themselves. My American model SUV is just about paid off and the next vehicle I intend to purchase won't be from the Big 3 unless they make one that really blows me away.
Now for an upset special. The Giants are underdogs against the Cowboys so lets take Big Blue on the road in Dallas as they rebound from the loss to the Eagles.
Enjoy the weekend...Leccese out.

Sean Avery doesn't get it and other random thoughts

Hi There. There's nothing better than heading into a weekend than having your favorite college football team win on national television 63 - 14 like Rutgers did last night. That was sooo sweet. Moving on to other things.
Sean Avery of the Dallas Stars decided to join Plaxico (or should I call him Harris Smith) and LeBron in the just plain stupid club. Its nice to know his breakup with Elisha Cuthbert was so amicable. Gary Bettman gave him a 6 game suspension, I would have given him 10 for those comments. By the way Shaun Ellis of the J-E-T-S should thank Plaxico because unbeknown to most of us; while Plax shot himself, later that morning Mr Ellis was caught with some Acapulco Gold in his car by a NJ State trooper. One last word on Harris, I mean Plaxico. When did sweatpants become fashionable to wear in a night club?
We've got some upset specials to run by you and we still have college games going on. I've decided to stay away from the conference championship games and give you a regular season match-up in our 50th state. Take the Rainbows of Hawaii over the Cincinnati Bearcats. For the pro upset special, I like the Redskins on the road in Baltimore to beat the Ravens.
I want to thank everyone again for your support of the Adopt A Child program. If you read Dan's blog, I've been helping transport gifts over to the GF Police Department. If I see another skateboard, I'm coming after Tony Hawk. The other thing you gotta like is those noise making toys with the batteries already in them. One slight move and it sets them off. Those things can drive a person nuts.
I love those holiday commercials for Lexus, but I'm waiting for one with a kid getting the Flexible Flyer sled. That was my bestest present of all time.
High School basketball starts Tuesday night on WWSC. Hudson Falls at Glens Falls. Can't wait. I'm curious to see if high schools will adopt the new men's 3 point line they use in college. Also I've noticed that some of the early season games have experimented with playing 16 minute halves instead of the usual four 8 minute quarters. I'll ask around and let you know what's going on. Enjoy the weekend...Leccese out.

We Need more Myron Rolles in the world and other Weekend Observations

Hi There. Lets see there's still some turkey and stuffing leftover and Giants are 11-1, not a bad way to start December? O.K. onto the serious stuff. Well my high school won its annual Thanksgiving match-up and the Cowboys beat the Seahawks. I don't think Mike Holmgren ever imagined his farewell tour to be this bad. There was a lot of bad football on Thanksgiving Day. It started with the Lions and snowballed into an avalanche. Cowboys/Seahawks and Eagles/Cardinals were not worth the price of admission and then if you're a college fan, boy that Texas/Texas A@M game was another real stay awake type game.
Who is dumber, Plaxico Burress or LeBron James? It's a toss up. Obviously Plax missed that how not to emulate PacMan Jones film and lecture at training camp. If I were Jerry Reese, I would call Plax's bridge troll of an agent Drew Rosenhaus right now and get tell him to get his behind up here and make sure Drew is begging for mercy on his hands and knees. I hope Mr.Burress likes the color orange. He maybe starring in another remake of, "The Longest Yard."
Now for LeBron James. Look, we all know Charles Barkley is no candidate to be the president of the Mensa Society. However if I'm picking sides to play Trivial Pursuit, I'm taking Barkley on my team. This just shows how pathetic the NBA is. Teams are clearing cap space for 2 years away so they can be a player in the LeBron, Chris Bosh or Dwayne Wade sweepstakes. It is that sad. LeBron, please shut up, you're a cancer to the NBA anyhow.
The other day I was taking stuff to the landfill when I found and decided to sell some of my old hockey gear at one of those consignment shops. My shinguards, elbow pads, and chest protector hopefully will find a good home.
This past weekend was the first since the middle of August that didn't include high school football whether it was watching a practice, scrimmage or calling a game.
After hearing about the fights, stabbings and tramplings at stores throughout the country on Black Friday, there is no flat screen, high def TV, computer, or other home electronics item worth it no matter how much is being saved. I remember the riots 25 years ago over Cabbage Patch Kids. It was not a pretty sight.
Finally a good sports story to talk about. If you want to root for someone, may I suggest football player Myron Rolle from Florida State. You see he wants to be neurosurgeon. His goal is to help with vaccinations in third world countries. He finished his undergraduate degree in 2 1/2 years. He's a Rhodes Scholar. He was willing to miss an important game so he could be there for his final interview and the announcement of the scholarship recipients. He could also play in the NFL if he wanted to. My advice to Myron is to meet and talk with Bill Bradley, the former senator from New Jersey and New York Knick. He did both, and so can you. We need the ESPN's, the Fox Sports or any of these networks to do more stories about the Myron Rolle's. I know there are more like him out there...Leccese out.

Tryptophan, Football and Some Random Thoughts of Thanksgiving

Hi There. Before we go into some random thoughts of giving thanks, lets talk football. We start with "Ken's Alma Mater Lock." Tomorrow morning in the annual Thanksgiving day football game in Middletown NJ, the Middletown South Eagles will put an a-- whooping on the Middletown North Lions. I wish I could be there to see the slaughter. Now for a pro upset special. I like Seattle over the Cowboys. I may not be the brightest bulb in the chandelier, but I'm not the dimmest either. The Lions will not beat the Titans. If the Lions end up 0-16, will the members of 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers open a bottle of champagne to celebrate like the 1972 Dolphins do when the last unbeaten team goes down to defeat.
Now for some random thoughts of Thanksgiving. What kind of debate would we have if the turkey had 3 different types of meat instead of just white and dark? If it wasn't for green bean casserole, would anybody even know what a can of cream of mushroom soup or french fried onions were. Staring at wiggling cranberry sauce can have this hypnotic effect on people. Has anyone ever taken a serving of candied yams and just ate the melted marshmallows on top and left the yams behind? Cool Whip or real whip cream, you decide. Just one year I would like to see the president not pardon the presidential turkey and instead pardon the presidential turduckhen. Finally the stuffing is the best part, and when its cooked in the bird I like the crunchy stuff that doesn't make it inside...Leccese out

Three losses in six years and other weekend observations

Hi there. Well high school football season is officially over and it was a good run for the Hudson Falls Tigers. Unfortunately they ran into a dynasty called the Rye Garnets. There's an old saying that speed kills and the Rye defense was at least one, maybe two steps faster. That was the difference in the ball game on Saturday. This was a team that has lost only 3 games in the last 6 years. I now understand why. It was also cold and windy. Last year we went up way north to Ausable Valley to do a regional game and it wasn't as cold there as it was Saturday in Kingston. Dietz Stadium is one of those places carved out of a hill and when its windy, the wind swirls and it did. I've had the pleasure of seeing some really good football players in past 5 or 6 years that I've been calling games. I'm putting Joe McMurry among the top five. I was talking with Chip Corlew and Burgess Ovitt two weeks ago and they told me another high school has added football. Ichabod Crane will be playing a varsity schedule in 2009. That's 4 straight years a Section 2 school has added or brought back football.
As for the upset specials, I went 1 for 3. When I got home late Saturday night I tuned into the Texas Tech/Oklahoma game and did the Red Raiders even show up? What happened? My mind was such a blur. As for the pro upset special. The Jets knocked off Titans, so I was 1 for 2 heading into the CFL title game. The "Pete Tobey Grey Cup Lock" didn't work out. Calgary beat Montreal and I want to thank Versus for at least showing the game. I would tune it in during commercials in the Giants game. Pete, you owe me one for putting the Leccese curse on Montreal. It worked and the Stampeders are CFL champs.
Syracuse fans are still celebrating their win over Notre Dame. I don't think though that Greg Robinson's job would have been saved even if he hadn't already been fired. How painful was it for fans of the Golden Domers not only to loose the way they did, but that Cameron Dantley's dad Adrian is the second greatest basketball player in Fighting Irish history.
Over the weekend I was watching the NHL network and I want to know who designed those ugly third uniforms that some teams are wearing. The losers from "Project Runway?" They are that bad. Now a couple are actually better than the regular ones, namely the Sabres, Islanders, Oilers and Canucks. But the Lightning, Coyotes, and Senators are double bag ugly. The NHL screwed up big time when they contracted with Reebok to create this form fitting jersey thing.
Congratulations to Ashley Simpson on the birth of her son, but what was she thinking when she named him, "Bronx Mowgli." I guess dumb runs in the family. I thought only Jessica had the stupid genes. Naming your first child after a borough in New York and the boy from " The Jungle Book." There's a kid just waiting to get picked on when he goes to school. Plus you got four years of therapy minimum.
I'm still waiting to hear what the big deal about "Twilight" is. 70 million at the box office opening weekend and I'm not getting it.
Finally, I owe Rutgers QB Mike Teel an apology. Five straight wins will make you re-think the view that Coach Schiano should have benched you when your teams record was 1-5. Enjoy Thanksgiving...Leccese out.

I am so not ready for HS Basketball and Ice Hockey Seasons

Hi There. You can feel it in the air. High School Basketball and Ice Hockey seasons are getting underway and I am so not ready. We will finalize the basketball schedule hopefully before Thanksgiving so you'll know what games we'll be airing on the Mighty 14 50. Before we get into a preview of tomorrow's Hudson Falls vs Rye game, it's time for "Opie's Upset Specials!" And cause I love youze guys, you get a bonus pick this week. Three for the price of two. Upset special Number One. Lots of good rivalry games in the college ranks this weekend, none of them worth the risk. Go with Texas Tech over Oklahoma. Upset special Number Two for the pro pick. Again there's some good match-ups but I'm playing a hunch and going with the J-E-T-S to finally give the Titans their first loss of the season. Now for your bonus pick. I'm calling this one the "Pete Tobey Grey Cup Lock" in honor of the Post Star's fine high school football columnist. I'm taking the Montreal Allouettes over Mr. Tobey's Calgary Stampeders in the CFL championship game. Now Pete, if you are aware of the Leccese curse, you'll be thanking me for picking Montreal.
As for the high school game. It's two bruising backs named Kyle Ramalho and Cole McCormick of Rye versus the big line and Joe McMurry of Hudson Falls. So expect a lot of ball control. This is looking like a field position, time of possession battle.
Donovan McNabb is taking a lot of heat for not knowing that regular season games can end in a tie. Remember this is coming from a league that has some ridiculous thing called, "The Tuck Rule."
Does anyone actually care that the New York Red Bulls and Columbus Crew are playing in the MLS championship game this weekend? I didn't think so.
Did I hear that LeBron James has Barry Manilow on his I-Pod? Come on, LeBron. It's O.K. for some loser like me who can't get a date to admit he likes Air Supply. At least they're not on my MP3 player. But Barry Manilow? I can see it now. Before a game he's got the headphones on and getting psyched up to Jay-Z along with "Copacabana" or "Weekend in New England."
Another sign of the apocalypse. I've seen the commercial for the video game Rock Band 2 with Kobe, A-Rod, Tony Hawke and some other dude playing "Old Time Rock N Roll."
Can someone please explain to me what the big deal is about the movie, "Twilight."
I want to wrap up by saying thank you to some of the over weight people who walk by the gym where I workout. Seeing you inspires me to do that extra 10 minutes on a treadmill or bike...Leccese out.

Thoughts of Kingston and other Weekend Observations

Hi There. If you're a Section 2 High School football fan, it wasn't a great weekend for you. Only Hudson Falls and Burnt Hills won and advanced to Dietz Stadium. LaSalle, Watervliet, and Rensselaer all lost. Section 7/10 has made some strides. In Class D, Section 7 has won the last three regional games. Unfortunately Hudson Falls and Beekmantown wasn't a fair fight Saturday. There is nothing more disheartening from a broadcasters point of view then calling a blow out. This year, I've seen my share them. Too many. I can honestly say that of the games we have done this year, only 3 were close. Dietz Stadium is decent. Got that brick bleacher structure on the one side with a nice big press box that have private rooms. It will be an interesting challenge for Hudson Falls going against Rye. Hey, if you want to be the champs, you've got to beat the champs. My favorite memories of Dietz are when Lake George won in the semi-final back in 1998 and made it to Syracuse, and when Warrensburg made the semi-final a few years ago and lost to Tuckahoe.
As for the upset specials. Went 1 for 2. The Domers knocked off Navy and they were lucky. Navy made a game of it late and Notre Dame became bowl eligible with the win. The pro upset special was a win for me. Denver defeated the Falcons. Sooner or later Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco are gonna hit that rookie wall that happens to all first year NFL players.
So Barry Melrose's return to coaching lasted all of 16 games with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Remember this team won the Stanley Cup less than 5 years ago. Letting your best defensemen Dan Boyle go and banking on 18 year old Steve Stamkos and 42 year old Gary Roberts to help Lecavalier, St.Louis and Prospal isn't enough. The Bolts goaltending is also shaky at best. The new ownership group must have been talking to Hank Steinbrenner and asking for his advice.
College hoops got underway and who the heck are a South Carolina Upstate and Houston Baptist and when they did they become Division 1? Its Yankee Doodle and Little Debbie time in college bball. The big boys are loading up on the cup cakes before they go off and play in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and other nice places.
Mike Lupica is one my favorite sportswriters and here's why. I was reading his column Sunday and he had this observation, "If the government wants to help Detroit with a bailout, they should start with the Lions." Also he had this observation. The Giants and Jets are having the years the Yankees and Mets were hoping to have in their final year at Yankee and Shea stadiums and did not.
Monday means CBS on the tube tonight and water cooler talk with Dan and John tomorrow...Leccese out.

Where was Dan Fielding? and other observations

Hi There. We've made through another week and as I kick off another weekend, we must open with, "Opie's Upset Specials" Alright now we look to the college ranks and last year the Midshipmen of Navy ended a 40 year losing streak to the Golden Domers of Notre Dame. This year they make it 2 straight. On to the pros, I'm liking John Pratt's boys the Denver Broncos to win over Matt Ryan and the Falcons in hotlanta, not mylanta.
Hudson Falls continues its journey to Syracuse and they'll take on the Beekmantown Eagles from Section 7 at Putt LaMay Field. They should win this one. If they make Dietz stadium next week in Kingston, they'll most likely face the Rye Garnet who are the defending state champs and currently ranked number 1 in Class B.
Earlier in the week, I apologized to Claude Julien the Boston Bruins coach for playing his other goaltender over Tim Thomas who is one my fantasy team goalies. I'm taking it back after last nights win over the club de hockey Canadien. You're killing me Claude, just killing me.
Last night I couldn't stomach watching the Jets/Patriots so I tuned into 30 Rock. After seeing Tina Fey I was thinking, maybe she should stick to Sarah Palin impersonations. Also, if you're going to do a "Night Court" reunion you have to include Dan Fielding. Okay, at least Bull. Jane Krakowski. Wow, talk about hot. She was pretty cute on "Ally McBeal" and had one of the best lines from the original "Vacation" movie. I might have to find a way to shoe horn her onto my list of five. When you're not married or dating anyone, you can say those things without repercussions.
The CBS Monday night comedies were on per usual. Two and a Half men. I loved watching Charlie torture Jake about going to military school. HIMYM had its moments especially when the Japanese guy on the tele-conference saw a drunk Lilly and pointed it out to everyone. Finally Big Bang Theory. More and more I realize I have a ton of Sheldon in me with a touch of Leonard and some Koothrapali thrown in for good measure. Call me Wolowitz and I will have to give you a strike, maybe 2 for good measure.
There's a crazy rumor going around the Leccese compound that my parents are coming home for a couple of weeks. I'll believe it when I see them.
Enjoy the weekend...Leccese out

How 'bout those Hudson Falls Tigers and other weekend observations

Hi There. Before we commence I want to personally thank the wise people who made the decision to move the Hudson Falls/Beekmantown football game from Friday night in Johnstown to Saturday afternoon at Putt LaMay Field.
Now on to the real fun. We got blanked on the upset specials. Did I say UCLA over Oregon State? Maybe I should have said USC over Oregon State. Oh yeah I forgot, the Beavers won that game too. As for the pro upset special, making a 52 yard field goal as time is running out isn't easy. Oh well, so I went 0-2. There's always next week.
There's an old adage in sports that defense wins championships and that applied to the Watervleit Cannoneers. Holding Chatham and Schuylerville to a combined 9 points in the C semi-final and final games after both teams put up big numbers. Not bad. Fort Edward played a team with too many weapons on offense. Rensselaer is for real and they can't take a scrappy Moriah team who is unbeaten at 10-0 lightly. Finally, lets talk about the only local team left playing football. The Hudson Falls Tigers. The more and more I see Joe McMurry run with the football, I want to convince some coach from a Division 1 school to watch him and see what I've been seeing and offer this kid a scholarship. He's intelligent and got that football sense that coaches can't teach. The other thing I like about the Tigers is the line. It's big, quick and fun to watch. The secondary isn't half bad either.
On the way to Amsterdam with Brian, we listened to the Rutgers/Cuse game. I wasn't too thrilled with the score early on. But after I shut it off in disgust, Greg Schiano's boys outscored them 35 - 3. There was a strange play to end the half. Syracuse attempted a field goal. The first time the kick was blocked. The second try they missed but neither one counted. Rutgers called time-out before the actual snap of the ball both times. The third try the kicker missed again. That one counted. The Scarlet Knights have quietly won 3 straight after starting 1-5. Things couldn't be any better in my football universe. My high school alma mater has won 7 straight games. You know about Rutgers and the Giants are 8-1.
One place where the football universe is so out of sync is Knoxville where the Tennessee Volunteers lost the Wyoming Cowboys on homecoming weekend. Talk about the bottom falling out for Phil Fulmer.
Can we just stop with the Heisman Trophy hype and just give the damn thing to Texas Tech QB Graham Harrell and get it over with please.
I noticed that there are two unbeatens left in the NBA. The Lakers and can you say the Atlanta Hawks. Did Spud Webb and Dominique Wilkins come out of retirement and I not know about it?
You know you're taking your fantasy sports way too seriously when you yell at a coach on TV for not playing someone on your team. For that reason I owe Bruins coach Claude Julien an apology for starting Manny Fernandez over Tim Thomas Saturday night.
If there is any NHL team that can survive losing a hall of fame goalie like Marty Brodeur for an extended period of time due to an injury, its the Devils.
My niece has learned to say, "Go Steelers" and she says it to me over the phone. Morgan can you say, "wild card." It's Monday and that means BBT and HIMYM on CBS...Leccese out

Ready for Some Football

Hi There. Well nothing highlights the weekend than a trip to Amsterdam. What I'm talking about is the game we'll be doing on WWSC and I'll get to that later. We always open with "Opie's Upset Specials," and today is no different. In the lead off spot is your college upset special and for once I'm heading out west to the Pac 10. I see the UCLA Bruins with a victory over the Oregon State Beavers. As for the pro, I'm putting the ranch on the Green Bay Packers to beat the Minnesota Vikings. Ever since the Vikings started playing indoors, they've sucked.
Now for the high school stuff. Got 3 locals vying for sectional championships this weekend. I think Schuylerville has the easiest test although Watervliet only gave up 3 points in their win over Chatham. Maybe I'm selling the Cannoneers short.
Fort Edward has a re-match with Rensselaer and I'm thinking the Rams have too many weapons offensively for the Forts to overcome. However if there is any one coach who could pull off the upset in that game its Kevin Stimpson and with the game being played at Putt LaMay Field in Glens Falls I think the Forts could do it. Now for the game on WWSC. Hudson Falls versus Ravena at Lynch Middle School in Amsterdam. The Indians love to run the ball like the Tigers, but use more than one back to do it. The Indians better not try to concentrate on stopping just Joe McMurry. Brett Melon has some solid receivers in Tom Hammond, Josh Canini and Isaiah Thomas. One note though. In its two losses Ravena's passing game struggled, and the secondary for Hudson Falls is pretty good. Just ask Albany Academy.
With the presidential election over, I can finally give an opinion on it. Just to let you know, I don't exercise my right to vote. It comes down to two reasons. I feel the candidates never discuss the issues that concern me. The other reason is a selfish one. I don't want to be called for jury duty. The one time I registered to vote, within 3 weeks I got the notice. I wish president-elect Obama all the best. Hopefully we'll have patience with him and the bi-partisan politics can finally end. Compromise can be a good thing. One more thing about him I like. He's a WhiteSox fan and you know how I feel about the other baseball team from Chicago.
I've gotten to know a lot of hockey moms over time, none of whom remind me of Sarah Palin. A couple have come close though.
There's something sad and pathetic at the same time watching a goalie trying to fight with a skater during a hockey game.
Big Bang Theory was better than How I Met Your Mother this week. The idea of Sheldon having a female admirer is almost as frightening as the idea of me with a female admirer. Enjoy the weekend..Leccese out.

Falling back and other weekend observations

Hi There. If you're like me, your body still hasn't adjusted to standard time yet. Getting up between 4:30 and 5:00am for no good reason sucks right now.
After watching the Giants put a hurtin' on the Cowboys yesterday, I thought of a quote from the late Wellington Mara after the G-Men knocked off Dallas. "Its nice to see arrogance humbled."
If there was any team from the AFC South I thought would be unbeaten at the half way point, I figured it would be the Jaguars and not the Tennessee Titans.
Tony Sporano is the AFC Coach of the Year hands down over Jeff Fisher.
Upset special wise, we went 1 for 2. The Jets beat Buffalo, however Duke fell short to Wake Forest in OT. By the way, what the heck is a Demon Deacon anyway?
You never know what to expect when you broadcast a game and trust me I don't think anyone who was at the Ft Edward/Canajoharie game thought the final score was going to end up being 50-42. I mentioned to Brian a couple of times during the broadcast if there was an over/under on the game it would be 40 points with an emphasis on the under. We were pretty spent after calling that one.
It doesn't get more exciting than the finish of the Texas/Texas Tech game Saturday night. It ranks up there with the Flutie to Phelan game winner against Miami in 1984.
I had a fun talk with my niece the other day. Three year olds are interesting little people. They're just at the age where they can understand you and you can understand them.
2 hours of my life I'll never get back were wasted over the weekend watching that cinematic tour de force known as, "The Comebacks."
If a trick or treater could find my house on Halloween, I would give them a Wonka Bar with a gold ticket in it to Willy Wonka's factory. That's how hard it can be trying to find my home. Growing up my friend Ricky DiBiase's house was the best to go to on Halloween. His dad worked for M and M Mars.
I'm not sure if this a sign of the apocalypse or I'm just getting old. Hostess has introduced 100 calorie Twinkies bites.
The fine folks at Directv are really driving me nuts. Supposedly my local NHL team is the Rangers. However if the Buffalo Sabres are playing the same night, the Rangers get blacked out. What's up with that? Speaking of hockey on television, I've officially become an addict of the NHL Network. I watch "NHL on the Fly" every morning to check how the players on my fantasy team did the night before. F.Y.I. the K-Dogs are tied for 2nd place with the Kiss Army just one point out of first.
New episodes of "Big Bang Theory" and "How I Met Your Mother" tonight. It beats the alternative. Chris Berman interviewing the presidential candidates at halftime of the Steelers/Redskins game. Where's Sal Palontonio when you need him?
One last thing. Happy Birthday today to two guys whom I respect and admire and coincidentally they both wore the number 11. Phil Simms and the best number 11 of all, my dad...Leccese out.

A view from the sidelines at Bearskin Bowl 3 and other observations

Hi There. I know what you're thinking. Why wasn't there an entry Monday? Well I have a few good reasons, but I'll use this one as my alibi. Being the fill-in host on the Morning Club is tough. I don't know how Dan does it 5 days a week. Pete can drive a person nuts on occasion, but most of the time its fun doing the show with him. As for last weekend I spent most of it dodging the raindrops and the monsoon Saturday. My cousin Andy Basso and his son Brent came up with 3 of his teammates from the East Greenwich High School rowing club. They participated in the Head of the Fish Regatta at Saratoga Lake and his team representing the Narraganset Boat Club finished second in the boys novice 8. The race went off at 8am and it was cold and damp. Seeing the rowing up close was neat. The oars on the boats are huge! Like about 12 feet tall huge. They arrived in town Friday night and we went out for dinner and afterward I gave them the tour of the radio station. After the football game we broadcast from Hudson Falls was over, I was completely spent. Got home, took a hot shower, ate some hot soup and was in bed by 7:30pm. Every once in a while you need one of those mornings where you can stay under the covers and not worry. Sunday was that morning.
On to other stuff. Upset specials. Last week was a total disaster. Tennessee and the Falcons both took the gas pipe. Well another week brings two more upset specials. Lets hope the results are better. It couldn't get any worse. O.K for the college I see the Duke Blue Devils knocking off the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest. Your pro upset special has the J-E-T-S beating the Bills. Buffalo doesn't recover after losing to the Dolphins.
If I had any courage I would have called my brother-in-law Mike and rubbed in the fact that last weekend teams from NY and NJ swept teams from Pittsburgh. 3 for 3. The Rangers over the Pens was nice, Giants over the Steelers was nicer, but Rutgers spanking the Pitt Panthers. That was the best of all three. Did I actually see Mike Teel throw 6 TD passes in the game? It happened. No complaints from this Scarlet Knights fan.
High School Musical 3 made 42 million dollars at the box office over the weekend. Excuse me while I yawn with my mouth wide open.
I heard that Carol Alt is posing for Playboy. Who cares. Remember her from Celebrity Apprentice? She's a total freak and into one of those whacked out diets where you only eat raw food. I liked her better when she ate cooked food and was married to Ron Greshner.
Hoda Kotb should be anointed sainthood for having to work with Kathie Lee Gifford on the Today show. I wonder how often does she think, " I gave up doing serious journalism for this gig? My career has gone down the toilet."
I feel no guilt over not watching any of the World Series. Bud Selig just finds ways to screw things up doesn't he? Good for the Phillies. They deserved to win and this is one Mets fan who has no hint of bitterness or jealousy. I thought they would win the NL East and they proved me right.
This weeks high school game on the mighty WWSC is Canajoharie at Fort Edward in a Class D play-off game. The Cougars probably are right now trying to figure out how to stop Tyler Carpenter, who has been on a tear right now. I like the balance of Canajoharie with Payton Stahler, Dane ONeill and Dylan Slater. This should be a good tough battle for both teams. The other game to watch is Hudson Falls at Cohoes. The winner of this game should win the class B sectional title.
Thanks to everyone Wednesday night who showed up and made it to Lake George High for Bearskin Bowl 3. The game once again raised some good money and ended in a 26 - 26 tie. I played for Warrensburg this year and finally I got to wear a jersey number that suited me. F.Y.I. That was me wearing number 11 for the Blue and Gold. The past 2 years I had a lineman's number. I can't make a block to save the quarterbacks life. I look better trying to run a pass route and wearing numbers in the teens or the eighties. The other thing I enjoy about playing in the game is I now understand why guys who play or have played football at the high school or any level love the game so much. Being on the sideline wearing your teams' jersey, having people cheering for you and feeding off that emotion while being on the field. I get it and I liked it. It's totally different than the one I felt with basketball.
Remember to set your clocks back 1 hour and check the batteries on your smoke detectors as well as the radon and carbon monoxide detectors before going to bed Saturday.
Thanks Lisa Miner for the apple pie. It was delicious. I'll send some pumpkin pie home with Dan for you sometime.
Enjoy the weekend and I would have caught that pass Doug...Leccese out.

Don't invite an ex to your wedding and the upset specials

Hi There. Since I'm pinch hitting for Dan the next 3 days, you're getting everything a day early. First the upset specials. This weeks college upset special comes from the SEC where the other team in Tennessee, namely the Volunteers will sing that annoying fight song and defeat the Crimson Tide of Alabama. The pro upset special had me leaning toward the Monday night game, but instead I'll take the much improved Falcons over the Eagles.
This weeks high school game on WWSC Saturday at 2pm is a first round Class B game between Albany Academy at Hudson Falls. The two met earlier this year in Week 2 and the Tigers came out on top 14-13 on a blocked extra point in the 4th quarter. The Cadets loved to throw the ball and Jimmer Bennett is the Section 2 all-time leading receiver. He also led Section 2 this year with 882 yards receiving on 61 catches which was 31 more than Dane O'Neill of Canajoharie. The Tigers will just keep giving the ball to Joe McMurry who in the last two games against Albany Academy has rushed for 632 yards. The line for HF is big and physical. They can push you around.
One more football note and it doesn't involve Tom Brady's knee, Brett Favre calling Matt Millen, Plaxico Burress and his big mouth or the Dallas Cowboys. Wednesday night I hope you can make it up to Lake George High School for Bearskin Bowl 3 at 6pm. Its a charity flag football game between the Lake George faculty and the Warrensburg faculty. It's raised some good money for good causes. I'm playing again and this year I was traded to Warrensburg. Don't get me wrong I love Warrensburg and its a great small town. However, I bleed the Navy Blue and Silver. My high school alma mater in NJ share the same colors as Lake George. Oh well, that's the way it goes. Maybe this year I'll finally get the chance to run a route and catch a pass instead of attempting to block as a lineman. Go Blue and Gold!
While channel surfing the other night I saw Tom Bergeron hosting "Dancing with the Stars." Talk about sad. Tom deserves better. He used to co-host a show on FX and two of his colleagues were Jeff Probst who hosts "Survivor, and Phil Keoghan from "Amazing Race" fame. Talk about drawing the short straw.
Another sign of the apocalypse. AC/DC's new release being sold in Wal-Mart.
If you're a fan of "How I Met Your Mother," the book "The Bro Code" written by Barney Stinson has been published and is now in book stores.
Morgan Pavlot will be 3 years old tomorrow. The sound you just heard was the new age spot that has exploded somewhere on her Uncle Kenny's arm.
Finally, today's lesson of the day courtesy of "How I Met Your Mother." Don't invite an ex to your wedding. By the way, Robin is way hotter than Stella...Leccese out.

How bout them Rays and other Weekend Observations

Hi There. If you had the RedSox and the Dodgers in the World Series to quote Warner Wolf, "You Lost!" Good for the Rays and Phillies. If I were a member of the Phillies don't quote Brooks Robinson when asked about the Mets in 1969. He said something like this. "We're here to prove there is no such thing as Santa Claus." He still refuses to believe the Mets were better. Jimmy Rollins keep quiet for your teams sake. We all have this obsession with TV ratings more than we do about the best two teams playing for the title. If the casual sports fan can't get behind what Joe Maddon has done with the Rays, they're not fans. He knew he had a good team that was ready to break out just like Gil Hodges felt about the Mets. He told people they could win between 90 and 100 games. Evan Longoria is a stud and BJ Upton is right behind him. Add that pitching staff. If they can stay together, the Yankees, Sox and Blue Jays are going to be playing for the wild card for a while.
My upset specials were 1 for 2. The Scarlet Knights of Rutgers won an ugly game over UConn and what happened to Browns QB Derek Anderson? How come he didn't play like that last Monday night against the Giants? That was awful. Yo Romeo, start Brady Quinn please! I'm beginning to think that life begins and ends with Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys. Talk about another sign of the apocalypse.
Went to the Rats game Friday night with a bunch of people I work out with and I felt dirty. I made not one, but two deals with the devil. Not only was it the River Rats playing in the Civic Center, but it was also the top affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes. I'm a Ranger fan for life, but the Hartford Whalers have a special place in my heart. My feelings toward the Whale go back to the old WHA and my uncles took me and my cousins to see them play a couple of times when I was growing up. When they left for North Carolina, it was like being hit in the groin. I saw Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford and said hello as he walked by. I wondered what he did with Whalers merchandise I sent to him along with that not so nice letter I wrote. As I said last week, if you want hockey back you got to suck it up and go to those games.
I know Dan and John will be watching the Patriots/Broncos game so I'll wait a couple days before we hit the water cooler and talk about the CBS comedies. Bourdain's new show on the Travel Channel is also on, can't wait for that. Well if you hear "Brass Bonanza" somewhere, think of me...Leccese out.

Upset Specials and other observations

Hi There. It's Friday and we head into another weekend of football, hockey and other things. We'll begin class with "Opie's Upset Specials." First for the college upset. I will finally pick a game that involves my favorite college team. The Scarlet Knights of Rutgers. 2 weeks ago I had UConn upsetting UNC and that didn't happen, so to get even I have Greg Schiano's boys taking out my anger toward the Huskies and winning in front of the home crowd on the banks of the old Raritan! For the pro, after the Cleveland Browns beat the Giants Monday night, I think they start a winning streak by knocking off the Redskins in DC. Jim Zorn to Steve Largent was a great combo in the early years of the Seahawks when their helmets were the coolest looking in the league. By the way class, that will be on the test.
O.K. now for some high school talk. Last week of the regular season before sectionals and crossovers for everybody but Class D. Interesting match-ups that have spots and positions on the line. The game we're doing on WWSC: Johnstown at Hudson Falls. The Tigers will be home next week for a first round game and they'll either play Hudson or Albany Academy who take on each other tomorrow afternoon. Other games going on this weekend.
Cambridge at Schuylerville - The Black Horses have too much offense for a young Indian squad.
Rensselaer at Lake George - If Lake George was sectional eligible, this might be a preview of the D title game.
Granville at Corinth - The winner is in and plays Chatham, the loser plays crossover games. The loser maybe better off.
Gloversville at Glens Falls - Whoever wins gets 3rd place in A Northwest.
Tamarac at Watervliet - The Bengals were humbled losing to Chatham last week and the loser of this game will most likely play at Schuylerville next Friday.
Getting away from football. After hearing about the BoSox remarkable comeback from 7 runs down and knocking off the Rays last night, I thought about pitcher Scott Kazmir and he must have been thinking, "Now I know what it would been like starting for the Mets this season."
Blackhawks owner Rocky Wirtz fired coach Dennis Savard after only 4 games this season. He'd fit in real good in the Fantasy Hockey league my friends and I are in.
Why is everybody making such a big deal over Joe the Plummer, and what makes Ohio such an important state during election time? Think about it. Does Cleveland, Cincinnati and Toledo really have that much pull when it comes to choosing the President?
After watching "How I Met Your Mother," I've been trying to figure out who needs an intervention around here. Mike or Pete. I'm leaning towards Cloutier and the hair.
See you at the River Rats game tonight. I wish Lou's Pizza was still around so I could grab a couple slices. Class dismissed...Leccese out.

Its The Great Pumpkin Pie Garden Boy and other weekend observations

Hi There. I knew my pro upset special was doomed when I wake up and the first thing on the radio I heard was "Carson Palmer won't be playing against the Jets." However, "How 'bout them Cowboys" as in Oklahoma State knocking off Missouri. The Leccese curse also made its presence felt. I compliment Vandy and the Redskins and what happens? Both lose.
You name it, I did it this weekend. Saturday it started at the Farmers Market and found some nice apples and bought another pie pumpkin. I also bought some cookies and the chocolate chip tasted just like the ones I used to get from a place called Delicious Orchards in Colts Neck, NJ. The peanut butter sandwich cookies were also killer. Then the Queenbury/Glens Falls football game. It was good game to call. Yesterday it was raking. The white pine trees have started to shed so it was time to take care of the driveway. My driveway is about a 1/10th of mile long down hill. Then it was pie time. I made my first pumpkin pie using fresh pumpkin. No canned stuff for the Garden Boy. It turned out perfect. I even roasted the seeds with some butter and salt. Makes a great, healthy snack. I also got the stone out and cranked out some pizza. Then with the weather being as close to perfect as it was, to finish the weekend I grilled some corned on the cob. Don't knock it 'til you try it. I wonder what my life would have been like if I had gone to culinary school and tried opening my own restaurant. Dan might have kept his hair. On second thought working with Pete, probably not. Tell Bobby Flay the Garden Boy wants a piece of him. I'm ready for a throw down. I got the skillz and I'm not afraid to use them.
Beverly Hills Chihuahua made another 17.5 million dollars at the box office over the weekend. That made me more sick than watching the stock market nose dive these past 2 weeks.
Anthony Bourdain has a new show debuting on the Travel Channel next Monday and of course I'll be watching. Perfect time too. 10pm, right after the CBS comedies. Speaking of television tonight, I have a dilemma. Choose between the CBS comedies, Rangers/Devils or Giants/Browns on Bristol Tech.
One more thing, The RiverRats are playing Friday night at the Civic Center and if you miss the AHL and want hockey back, go to the game. I'm going with a group of friends from the gym I belong to...Leccese out.

Random Thoughts from the mind of the Gardenboy and Upset Specials

Hi There. Despite the losing skid we kick off another edition of this blog with "Opie's Upset Specials." First to the college ranks where we finally lost (Thanks for nothing, Randy Edsall). Again this week I was torn between two games and we head to Big 12 country where the Missouri Tigers host Oklahoma State. I hope to be saying, "How 'bout them Cowboys!" OK State is unbeaten and I think this will be the game that gets me back on track. Now for the pro upset. Its time. Time for the Cincinnati Bengals to win for the first time and knock off the J-E-T-S Jets, Jets, Jets. Cincy has gone on the road and hung in there with both Dallas and the Giants in the past 3 weeks. So the Bengals go 1-1 at Giants Stadium this year.
On to more football the Game of Week on WWSC Saturday. Queensbury and Glens Falls. Both teams are 2-3 and the winner will likely get the final playoff spot in the A Northwest Division and a meeting with Troy or Bishop Maginn in round one of the sectionals. Queensbury is in a more desperate situation since they wrap up with Burnt Hills next week. Speaking of Burnt Hills here's my top five area teams: Burnt Hills, Saratoga, Schuylerville, Lake George and Hudson Falls.
On to other things. It was turn back the clock week at the gym. Mike Rowe and Steve Carroll were back in town and were either teaching or taking class. I miss those two. Since the new owners took over, the gym lacks that little something that made it special.
I was grocery shopping and I saw another disturbing product. Pop Tarts frosted with the logos of your favorite college football teams! The ones with fiber in them sound more appealing. Just to be cruel I hope a fan of some Big Ten or SEC school buys a box and ends up getting nothing but their favorite teams arch rival.
The Monday night CBS comedies were on and I wasn't offended by the slams on my beloved home state of NJ during "How I Met Your Mother." I enjoyed them. My favorite part was Alan getting tazed on "Two and a Half Men." Funny stuff.
With the NHL season under way, the C-Town K-Dogs have been released from the kennel and ready to wreck havoc on the fantasy hockey league I'm in.
Happy Anniversary to my sister Kelly and her husband Mike. It's 11 years now and yes I've beaten that addiction to orange TicTacs. You just got to take it one day at a time. However I still have the occasional nightmare concerning the photographer. We didn't need that many pictures!
If I could get a date with Fox News' Megyn Kelly, I would be very happy...Leccese out.

UConn and The Lions what was I thinking and other weekend observations

Hi There. Courtesy of my dads' laptop you get a new entry early. OK, so the UConn Huskies and the Lions took the gas pipe and my upset specials have returned to the form I expected. I warned you not take them seriously. After this weekend you've probably lost that cute girlfriend or your trophy wife is threatening to leave because you listened to my picks. Now on to more serious stuff.
I want to take this time to thank the Brewers and Fuzzy Cubbies for playing and don't forget to take a copy of the home edition. I don't know what made me happier. The Giants spanking Seattle 44-6 or the Cubs being swept. Alright it was the Cubs being swept. I'll be open and honest. I HATE THE CHICAGO CUBS. From their whining cry baby fans, to the late Harry Caray singing, and that joke of a ballpark they play in. I hate everything about them. I like the Dallas Cowboys and New York Islanders more than I do the Cubs.
Message to Yankee fans. Don't jump. I know Joe Torre has led the Dodgers to the NLCS against the Phillies and it was rough year with Joe Girardi at the helm. It will get better, trust me I'm a Mets fan.
Hey Dodger fans. Enjoy the honeymoon with Mr. Ramirez. Soon enough Manny will be Manny again and he'll wear out his welcome. Just ask the Indians and RedSox faithful about it.
I don't what's more surprising in football. Vanderbilt being 5-0 in the SEC or the Redskins being 4-1 and have knocked off the Cowboys and Eagles on the road in back to back weeks.
Best High School Football teams in the WCKM listening area in no particular order. Schuylerville, Saratoga Springs, and Burnt Hills.
Here's the latest sign of the apocalypse. The number one movie at the box office this weekend was "Beverly Hills Chihuahua." The movie made 29 million dollars! I wonder if TacoBell had a stake in it?
I wish election day would get here. Tina Fey and her Sarah Palin imitation is starting to get on my nerves.
If our female senator wanted to be president so badly, how come she didn't run as an independent after losing the Democratic Party nomination?
The two best smells coming out of an oven. Chocolate chip cookies and apple pie. I made an apple pie and the kitchen has that cinnamon smell.
I wonder if some of those CEO's who created the credit mess we're in consulted with the Magic 8-Ball?
I'm sooo glad hockey season is back...Leccese out

Upset Specials and other stuff

Hi There. Friday brings football and of course we lead off with, "Opie's Upset Specials!" O.K. last week we continued being perfect in the college ranks thanks to the Wildcats of Northwestern, but the Ravens lost in OT to the Steelers. Since I need a win in the pro ranks, we'll start with your pro upset special. Matt Millen got fired (finally) and that will inspire the Lions to knock off DA Bears to get me back on track. Now for the college upset special. I'm torn between three games but I'll take the UConn Huskies in a win over the UNC TarHeels in a game that would make a better basketball game than football.
Now onto High School Football where we got two games this week on WWSC. Tonight its Warrensburg at Lake George. Warrensburg has won 3 straight and Lake George is unbeaten, but Caleb Meroski will be too much for the Burgers and I have this gut feeling a blowout might happen in favor of the home team. Tomorrow its Cambridge at Hudson Falls. Cambridge loves to pass and Hudson Falls hands it off to Joe McMurry. This has the makings of an interesting game.
Other games of note this weekend.
Queensbury at Amsterdam. The Spartans could be in line for 2nd place in A North if they win on the road.
Greenwich at Rennselaer. The Rams put a hurting on Ft.Edward last week and the battle for the second play-off spot is up for grabs in D South.
Fonda at Chatham - The 2 best teams in C South go at it.
Glens Falls at Burnt Hills. Which Glens Falls team shows up against Paul Layton and Co. on homecoming weekend. Hopefully the one that beat S.Glens Falls last week. Even that may not be enough against the best team in the area.
Hoosick Falls at Granville - The Horde won big over Mechanicville and could make a statement against the Panthers and QB Kevin Wood.
Amidst all the football and the baseball play-offs going on, the NHL kicks off this weekend in Europe. Yes hockey season is back and the Fuzzy Cubbies are on the verge of being swept by the Dodgers. Life is good at the moment. Enjoy the football and the weekend...Leccese out.

Sometimes food can be better than sex and other weekend observations

Hi There. I know when you read the title of this entry, the overwhelming majority will disagree. However if you attended the Taste of the North Country I think it might sway a few of you towards my thinking. As a hard core foodie and Food Network addict, it was awesome. I saw and spoke with a lot of friends I haven't seen in a while as I sample some seriously good stuff. I was in heaven. I have a strategy when it comes to Taste of the NC. First, I look for a real good soup. Next is barbecue. Either ribs or pulled pork, doesn't matter. One more entree, this year it was really delicious crab cakes and finally it's dessert time. Something with chocolate is a given. Throw in a fruit dessert and then search out bread pudding. Also don't be afraid try something you wouldn't normally order out. All this food talk is making me hungry.
I was grocery shopping and what did I find in the cereal aisle? Toaster Pastries with fiber in them. That's as bad as organic Oreo cookies.
If I hear any more Mets fans complaining about the ceremonies at Shea's last game, I'm gonna hurt someone. Look it wasn't gonna top what the Yankees did. They did do it with class though. When Dwight Gooden was introduced I was so pumped up. Dr. K was back for one more house call wearing the right scrubs. True Mets fans like myself loved seeing Dave Kingman, Willie Mays, Wayne Garrett and others comeback. I wish Nolan Ryan and Jerry Grote would have been there, but I guess you can't have everything. Having all the players step on home plate one last time before Tom Seaver threw that last pitch to Mike Piazza. Nice touch.
I owe Billy Joel an apology. I read a review of his August concerts at Shea. Roger Daltrey appeared and did a couple of Who songs; even broke a guitar up for old times sake, but my wish came true. Paul McCartney did come back and played a couple Beatles songs with the Piano Man as the last numbers in the show.
The Monday night comedies on CBS were on per usual. I could relate to Leonard's girlfiend on "Big Bang Theory." Some differences you just can't overcome in a relationship. Regis Philbin was funny on "How I Met Your Mother." Jake on "Two and a Half Men" so much reminds me of the son of a co-worker here at the radio station.
If snack cakes and donuts were considered vegetables, I think Brian would eat more vegetables.
Happy Birthday Festus...Leccese out.

Upset Special Time and other observations

Hi There. Well its Thursday and its time for some picks and previews. O.K. here we go, the latest edition of "Opie's Upset Special." We had the first setback of the 2008 season with Houston Texans unable to defeat the Titans, but we're still perfect in the college ranks. That's where we'll begin. It's Big Ten time and I gotta go with those Northwestern Wildcats in a win over my Dad's favorite Big Ten squad the Iowa Hawkeyes. The Wildcats will be among the elite this year in the Big Ten along with Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Joe Pa's Nittany Lions. Now for the pro upset special. Take the Ravens over the Steelers Monday night in the 'Burgh. Willis McGahee and Ray Rice pound it past a battered Ben Roethlisberger and no Willie Parker. The Steelers are trying to find their identity.
Want more football? You got it. South Glens Falls at Glens Falls on WWSC Saturday afternoon. Neither of these teams couldn't establish a passing game and they played horrendous 3rd quarters. It ended up costing both of them the game. Bad weather is predicted and the team that holds on to the football and throws it better will win. You'll see a lot of 8 men in the box trying to stop the run defenses. Other games of note.
Moriah at Ticonderoga. Section 2 D schools should make the trip to Sentinel field and watch this game. You'll be playing either one in the regionals.
Amsterdam at Burnt Hills. The winner will take first place in the A Northwest Division.
Hudson Falls at Cobleskill. The Tigers have to rebound. They did not play well last week in Schalmont and the schedule only gets tougher for HF.
Saratoga Springs at Shen. Its a rivarly game and next to Schuylerville and Burnt Hills, the Blue Streaks are best team in the WCKM listening area.
Rennselaer at Fort Edward. Could be a Class D sectional final preview.
Warrensburg at Whitehall. The Burgers win, they got a spot in the Section 2 playoffs and a 3 game winning streak heading into the Lake George game next week.
Tamarac at Fonda. The surprising Bengals have only given up 6 points in their 3 wins. The Braves dropped from Class B to C and have been distroying their opponents. We'll see how legit Mike Dubray's alma mater is in their first real test.
F.Y.I There's been a change to the WWSC broadcast schedule for next weekend. They've moved the Lake George/Warrensburg game from Saturday Afternoon in Warrensburg (during garage sale weekend) to Friday Night in Lake George. We'll still be airing that game and we've added the Cambridge at Hudson Falls game Saturday Afternoon October 4th at 2pm.
It was great to the see the ownership of the Lions finally wake-up from that coma and fire Matt Millen. At least we've still got the Rams left in the NFC to pick on.
Now for a non football item. Monday night the comedies were on CBS and were solid all the way round. I didn't watch "Worst Week." I stuck with "The Big Bang Theory," "How I Met Your Mother," and "Two and a Half Men." At least their will be no writers strike this year. Martin Mull stole Two and a Half Men as the pharmacist. Cough Syrup, Charlie.
Finally, a last word on Shea Stadium. It's a dump, but it's our dump and we'll miss it...Leccese out

Who Needs Eldrick and other weekend observations

Hi There. Is it just me or are the Emmy's becoming just like the Academy awards? TV shows and performers I've never heard of that are on cable are getting nominated and winning. I thought that's what the "ACE" awards were for. How come the 4 major networks can't come up with innovative shows like "Entourage" and "Mad Men." Instead we get stuck with "Dancing with the Stars," "Wife Swap," and "Deal or No Deal."
On to sports. I'm getting this out of the way early. Note to Rutgers coach Greg Schiano. As a former NJ resident and big fan of your football team. Take my advice. Bench QB Mike Teel, and save your season. I knew it would be a down year, but 0-3? You're killing me Scarlet Knights, you're killing me. Not even the Mets are doing that.
Speaking of the Amazins' I'm officially naming their bullpen "Three Mile Island." Talk about meltdowns. Twenty Nine, count 'em 29 blown saves.
O.K. so I was wrong about the Fuzzy Cubbies and Rays.
Even the biggest Yankee haters could not have disliked the pre-game ceremony before the last game at Yankee Stadium Sunday night. The moment that touched me the most was seeing Thurman Munson's son Michael wearing the number 15. He looks a lot like his old man. The other was the reaction by the crowd when Bernie Williams was introduced.
Well they'll say farewell to Shea on Sunday and as a Mets fan I've been ready all season for the moment to happen. It won't have the history and flair for the dramatic that the festivities in the Bronx had, but Shea has its own special spot in New York sports history too. I'm holding out that Paul McCartney shows up and sings the National Anthem or does a Beatles song for old times sake.
You didn't have to be a golf fan to get caught up in the Ryder Cup excitement. I was flipping back and forth between the Giants/Bengals game and the golf. The matches played Sunday had every element that makes sports great. I think Paul Azinger did play to the crowd way too much. He owes Nick Faldo an apology for going over the top. I don't need a flat screen with Hi-Def. I need picture in picture so I can watch 2 things at once. David Feherty wrote a column in the recent edition of Golf Magazine and he called Tiger Woods "The Golden Gimp." I don't feel so bad calling Tiger, "Eldrick the Gimp" anymore. I actually feel vindicated.
My man EK over at Bristol Tech radio let me down the other day. He said that "Field of Dreams" was over rated. You want to know what's over rated? "The Godfather" movies.
Dust off the water cooler Dan and John, because its premiere night on CBS and "Big Bang Theory" and "How I Met Your Mother" are on. I might have to threaten you with the SlapBet Commissioner. I finally lost an Upset Special, dang those Houston Texans...Leccese out.

Upset specials and HS Football Preview

Hi There. Well its time for a little football here in the Greenhouse Effect. We'll start with "Opie's Upset Specials." We're a perfect 4 for 4 on the season and we kick off Week 3 with your college upset special. The Commodores of Vanderbilt knock off Eli Manning's alma mater the Ole Miss Rebels. Vandy doesn't have a prayer normally in the SEC but like I them against the Rebels. I saw them 2 weeks ago when they played South Carolina. Now for your pro upset special. The Tennessee Titans are 2-0. However they won't become 3-0. Take the Houston Texans. They disappointed everybody in Week 1 and after all that has been going with the distruction caused by Ike. The Texans rally everybody like the Saints did with Katrina and win one for the Gulf Coast. So its Vandy and the Houston Texans.
Now onto the High School scene. You get two games on WWSC. We start Friday Night with Glens Falls at Amsterdam. The Rugged Rams are 0-2 on the year after losing to Bishop Maginn and Troy and I have this gut feeling that Glens Falls is going to feel the rath of Amsterdam. We'll see how really good the Indians are tommorow night.
Saturday its Queensbury and S.Glens Falls. If the Spartans can keep the Bulldogs offense off the field by methodically running the double wing and eating up the clock, they'll win. S. Glens Falls will have to put up enough points to force Queensbury to throw the football, which they'd perfer not to do.
Other interesting games this weekend.
Hudson Falls at Schalmont. The Tigers escaped with a win over Albany Academy 14 - 13, and the Sabres are much improved. Important game for Hudson Falls.
Warrensburg at Saratoga Catholic. The Saints play their first home game in 20 years under the lights at East Side Rec in the Spa City and it will be interesting to see what Burger team shows up. I can't believe they put up 40 against Salem.
Salem at Ft.Edward. D-North be all screwed up if the Generals win and spoil the Forts home opener. Salem first 3 games are the 3 games that count in the division standings that determine who makes the playoffs. Ft.Edward is in if they win.
Bishop Gibbons at Greenwich. The Witches could be easily 2-0. They went to Canjo and beat the Cougars last week. Derrick Pittis is an athlete for the Griffins that Greenwich has to stop if they want to get to 2-1. One more thing. The Tamarac Bengals football team is 2-0 and haven't surrendered a point on defense this year. Something must be in the water down in Clums Corner.
Enjoy the football...Leccese out.

Sometimes I amaze myself and other weekend observatios

Hi There. Well we've made it halfway through September and can you believe there is officially only 7 days left in the summer. After having now 2 straight weeks of my upset specials coming through (Thank you Maryland and the 49ers) I've decided on a new challenge. I'm going to Washington DC and offer my services to Jerry Manuel and tryout for a spot in the Mets bullpen. If John Carney and Jeff Feagles can kick and punt for the Giants and they're 44 and 42 years of age respectively, why not let me pitch? A 42 year out of shape radio announcer who hasn't played organized baseball on any level since he was 10 years old. I can't be any worse than Heilman, Feliciano, Schoeneweis, or Sanchez are already. Did I miss anyone?
I told you the Browns and Vikings were overrated.
The St.Louis Rams are so bad that the Burnt Hills/Ballston Lake Spartans would have given the Giants a better game yesterday.
Hey Packer fans, do you miss Number 4 yet? Aaron Rodgers has looked pretty good so far. O.K. he's played the Vikes and Lions but Brett the J-E-T lost to a QB who last started a game his senior year of High School.
That must have been some tackle that knocked down and took out Charlie Weis.
I watched Saturday Night Live and yes Tina Fey is a dead ringer for Sarah Palin. I could only take about 30 minutes because Amy Poehler got on my nerves. Michael Phelps, one piece of advice for you. Stick to eating and swimming please. I'll have to ask Shawn or John on the sister station who or what is a Lil Wayne?
Has Norv Turner stopped whining about the two calls in the Chargers/Broncos game yet? Norv, if your sieve of a defense hadn't given up that 2 point conversion or that last second TD pass at home to the Panthers, your team would 2 and 0. It's nice to see your stud LB Shawne Merriman finally having knee surgery after four yes four doctors told him so.
Bernard "Putt" LaMay Memorial Field was dedicated Saturday and now I can finally stop talking about how great the place is. On a side note: Brian officially went into the record books Saturday as buying the first hot dog, the first slice of pizza, and the first order of nachos at the new concession stand at Putt LaMay Field. Did I miss any other items on the menu? It couldn't happen to a more worthy individual. My Smart Water is getting warm...Leccese out.

Upset Specials and HS Football Preview Week 2

Hi There. Well its Week 2 of HS Football and I'll preview the games we're doing on The Mighty 1450 in a minute. But first, it's time for "Opie's Upset Specials." Last week 2 for 2. The state of NC came through big time with both E.Carolina and the Panthers winning. Remember, these are for entertainment purposes only. I don't want you going broke, having expensive cars or homes repossessed, or that drop dead gorgeous girlfriend or spouse leaving you because you listened to my picks and can't take care of her in the manner she's accustomed. First the college upset special. Take the Maryland Terrapins over the Cal Bears. The Bears are 2-0 and last week spanked Washington State last week 66-3 and the Terps turtled (Get it, Terps Turtled) in a horrible loss over Middle Tennessee State. Ralph Fridgen is treading on thin ice at Maryland and he needs this win bad. Last year they were struggling before knocking off Rutgers on the road. Maryland bounces back and Cal is no USC when it comes to traveling cross country to play a road game. On to the pros, The 49ers head to Seattle, grab an exta large coffee or latte and beat the Seahawks. The Seahawks looked awful in a loss over the Bills. The 49ers didn't do much better at home losing to the Cardinals, but the Seahawks are like the Browns. Way over rated. So its Maryland and the 49ers.
O.K. on to the HS Preview. You get two games this week on WWSC. Friday night Ft Edward at Lake George. Bottom line is the team that stops the run better wins this game. Both teams have outstanding backfields. Tyler Carpenter and Ray Cummings for the Forts and Caleb Meroski and Jake Nelson for Lake George. It will also be interesting to see the "Pistol" offense that Lake George employs. Saturday's Game is Scotia at Glens Falls. Both teams got taken out behind the woodshed in losses to Burnt Hills and Lansingburgh last Friday night. Hopefully they'll play better. The Indians will be playing with a lot of emotion since not only its their home opener, its the dedication of Putt LaMay Field and the place looks great. The best games of week are easily these two Friday night. Lansingburgh at Burnt Hills (two class A contenders) and Hoosick Falls at Schuylerville (the best teams in C north). Granville at Cambridge on Saturday looks intriguing. One last thing. With 17 games left in the regular season I'm feeling a whole lot better about the Mets and their 3 1/2 game lead over the Phillies this year, then I did with them and the 7 game lead they had last last year. Got to go, Rutgers is playing tonight on Bristol Tech...Leccese out.

I got them both right and other weekend observations

Hi There. Hard to believe that I got both of my upset specials right. I admit I'm no Nostradamus, but I was feeling real good when I saw E. Carolina 24 W.Virginia 3 Saturday and when the Panthers knocked off the Chargers in the final seconds yesterday. Trust me midnight will be striking any time now. On to other football observations from the weekend. We'll start with Week 1 of the High School season. Class A is definitely the toughest of the bunch. Bishop Maginn and Lansingburgh are strong again, Burnt Hills has the best QB in the area in Paul Layton and don't ever ignore Amsterdam. Glens Falls is in that second tier with Gloversville and Averill Park. Glens Falls also has a brutal road schedule. They opened with Lansingburgh, and they head to Amsterdam and Burnt Hills later in the season. I also think C North is going to be rough again. Schuylerville is primed to make another run. They blanked Corinth, but Corinth made some mistakes that cost them the game. Hoosick Falls got off to a fast start beating Cambridge, who just reloads. There is a sleeper team and that's the Golden Horde of Granville who knocked off Stillwater. You have to feel for the teams in D North. With Lake George ineligible for post season play, there's only 3 division games. Right now Whitehall and Warrensburg are behind the eight ball after only one game. Warrensburg's playoff hopes could be down the tubes after this weekend if they lose to Salem. Moving on to the NFL, where the Jets and Bills are salivating and thinking division title now that Tom Brady will be on the shelf healing. Big deal, you beat the Dolphins and Seahawks. I'll still put my money on Bill Belichick and the Pats to win the division no matter who their QB is. I'm hoping the Pack beats the Vikings tonight. The Vikings are getting a lot of love because of Adrian Peterson and Jared Allen. The only way I become sold on the Vikes is if Fran Tarkenton or Tommy Kramer starts at QB for them and that's not gonna happen. Tavares Jackson, I don't think so. By the way, is it just me or do the Minnesota boys have some ugly looking uniforms. They're giving the Titans a run for their money in the ugly uni department. As a fan of both the Mets and Giants, my biggest fears are coming from the city of Philadelphia. The Phillies line-up is the best in the National League and the Eagles have too much talent on both sides of the ball. Now onto some random thoughts of nothing. People tell me I have to eat more vegetables. Unfortunately all the vegetables I like are bad for me. Peas, corn, butternut squash, eggplant, white potatoes. What's next sweet potatoes? That's probably on the list too. Here are two people that I like but for some reason most everybody else can't stand: Bryant Gumbel and Nancy Grace. Mutley is the coolest cartoon dog ever drawn. Better than Scooby Doo, Astro Jetson, Huckleberry Hound, etc. Has anyone ever eaten a Yodel's snack cake by taking off the chocolate coating first, then unraveling it? There is something odd in seeing Dick Vitale in the same Basketball Hall of Fame class as Patrick Ewing, Pat Riley, Adrian Dantley, William Davidson, and Hakeem Olajuwon. Why is it that even if you own a copy of a movie on DVD, you'll still watch it when it's on TV? If you make a S'more with a chocolate bar that has nuts in it, is it still considered a S'more?...Leccese out.

Upset Specials and some other random thoughts

Hi There. It's Friday, its football season and that means I'm proud to present the season premier of "Opie's Upset Special." Each week I will give you an upset in both the college and pro ranks for entertainment purposes only. Trust me if you take the chance on any of my picks, you'll end up broke and your hot trophy wife or girlfriend will leave you. First your college upset special: East Carolina over West Virginia. The Pirates knocked off Va.Tech last week and I'm thinking they go 2 for 2 at home over the Mountaineers. Now for your pro upset special. The Carolina Panthers defeat the San Diego Super Char-gers. Here's a preview of what's going on in Week 1 of the high school football season. Tonight there's some good openers. Hudson Falls at Ravena, Glens Falls at Lansingburgh, Saratoga at Ballston Spa, Corinth at Schuylerville and Spa Catholic at Canajoharie. As for the game you'll hear on Talk 1450 WWSC tomorrow at 1pm. A traditional match-up between Ft Edward and Warrensburg. Fort Edward lost a lot of yards and points scored to graduation, but Bob Phillips, Tyler Carpenter and Ray Cummings make for a nice returning backfield as the Forts to try to 3-peat in Class D. The line should be O.K as 3 starters return. Warrensburg has a new coach and a new offense in place but the numbers are tight and they've already got some injuries. They do have 2 decent Qb's in Tom Holmgren and Brendan Frye and it should be interesting how Mike Leonbruno uses them. Logan Rock is a horse and will carry the running load for the Burgers. Well the Giants won and I'm very happy right now. Enjoy the weekend...Leccese out.

Ready or not its time for some football and other observations

Hi There. Its September 2nd and once again I have to ask those questions that always come up this time of year. Where did the summer go, and is the track really closed til next July? The past week was spent visiting high schools watching practices, talking to coaches, and preparing for football season. I saw 12 teams scrimmaging over a period of 12 hours Saturday. I guess when your not married or dating you can do that without any of the consequences or dirty looks you'll get from the wife or girlfriend. (Sorry Pete Tobey, I feel your pain.) Watching practices and scrimmages this time of year you're not looking for breakout performances, you look for little things that might give you a feel on what you can expect during the regular season. Here some initial impressions on some of the teams I was able see.
Greenwich, Warrensburg, and Granville are short on numbers so if one or two injuries occur it might spell doom for the season.
Fort Edward maybe better than expected, but its important that their sophomores and freshmen contribute right away. Tyler Carpenter will have big year for the Forts.
Lake George has everybody back and they should be better. I felt they didn't tackle well in the scrimmages Saturday night. They've got a great starting backfield with Caleb Merosky and Jake Nelson.
Glens Falls and Corinth maybe the best teams locally. They both have tough openers on the road. The Indians head to Lansingburgh and Corinth plays at Schuylerville so this will be a real good test for both squads.
Hudson Falls has the potential to be very good. I know Joe McMurry is back and the line is big and tough, but there are other unknowns that haven't made me sold on Tigers just yet.
Queensbury if they can find the backs to make the Double Wing work, they may surprise some people. However, John Irion told me he has some concerns about the depth on the O-line. He wishes he had more of it. I was caught off guard when I saw the blue helmets they were wearing. It's going to take a little time getting used to.
South Glens Falls has to play some big time D. They lost 70 percent of their offense to graduation. Having Joe Collier and Mustafa Choukier in the backfield is a start. If the offense can come together, you never know.
Whitehall has decent numbers and it looked like they've abandoned the double wing for a more wide open spread offense. D North is wide open.
and finally there's Spa Catholic who might steal a game or two. Unlike Hoosick Valley and Cairo-Durham who were bigger schools, the Saints join the D ranks in their first year of Varsity since the 80's.
I've been talking about the construction at GF High of Putt LaMay field all summer long, well during my travels I discovered that other schools have done improvements to their football fields as well. Fort Edward tore up its old field and put in some beautiful new grass. It will be ready for the home opener on September 20th and it has the potential to be as nice as HG Moran Field. Also South Glens Falls has installed new bleachers and a new press box to improve the viewing pleasure of the Bulldog faithful.
Now to get away from football and on to other things. After reading CE Skidmore's column Saurday in the Post Star, I think "Black Coffee in Bed" is a much better Squeeze song than "Tempted."
You think after what happened to Dick Cheney, John McCain would have thought more carefully than choosing a running mate whose hobbies include hunting?
Is anyone paying attention the US Open Tennis or the PGA Tours' FedEx Cup? I didn't think so either.
When I buy a bag of Hershey's Miniature's, I eat the Mr Goodbars or the Krackels first.
Is there any way that CBS could bump up its season premiers of its Monday night comedies? The water cooler has gotten a little dusty and I need a fix of "Big Bang Theory" and "How I Met Your Mother." Leccese out.

2 Reasons to hate Chicago: The Cubs and Deep Dish Pizza and other Weekend Observations

Hi There. There's nothing better than scarfing down some thin crust pizza no matter what time of day it is. Come on now, don't tell me you've never left a slice or two out overnight and the next morning had it cold for breakfast. We've all done it at least once. Its the American way. The creative juices are flowing and I don't know where to begin. Maybe the Olympics should keep going for another two weeks. The Democratic and Republican party conventions are coming up and all the networks will be hitting you with endless coverage right up until the start of the new TV season.
The Mets are playing well and the way Johan the Great and the Big Pels have been pitching, it makes for a tough 1-2 combination if the Mets make the playoffs. Tom Seaver was at Shea on Thursday and hopefully Mr. Pelphrey spent some quality time with Mr.Seaver and talked pitching. If I were Dan Warthen I would have Big Pels take a quiz and I'm not talking TRUE/FALSE to see if he learned anything from Tom Terrific. As for the Bronx Bombers was there a Carl Pavano sighting? No kidding there really was and he was actually pitching on a mound in a big league game and there was no Alyssa Milano around.
Who had a better day at the track Saturday? Colonel John, who won the Travers by a nose hair over Mambo in Seattle. Alan Garcia, who rode 5 winners including 2 stakes races or Slambino who went off at 88 to 1 and won the 7th and paid $177.00 to win. Just think if somebody had a winning ticket on that Superfecta they would have won more than the owners of the Travers. The estimated payout on that Super would have been over 1.5 MILLION dollars. Even though Big Brown didn't run in the Travers, the race itself was great.
The PC police are getting out of hand. Apparently nutritionists are upset that Michael Phelps will endorse Kellogg's Frosted Flakes. If I won 8 gold medals I wouldn't be pushing to plug All Bran, Super Colon Blow or some other healthy cereal. Is it just me or the coolest name in sports right now is Usain Bolt.
Well with football practice underway and the season starting in 2 weeks, the 2008 Broadcast Schedule for WWSC is done and it will be on the Radiowins.com website in the next couple of days. Just to let you know picking what games to do is probably the hardest thing about the season. We have what I call 8 core football schools to cover and another 4 that we give consideration to. Trying to get them on at least twice during the regular season is a tough chore. Unfortunately right now it looks like Hudson Falls and Schuylerville will be on only once. Scheduling got easier this year with Queensbury and Lake George dropping down in class. We also won't be doing as many Friday night games. Now that Glens Falls plays its home games on Saturday, only Lake George, Corinth and Schuylerville play locally on Friday. I prefer Saturday games anyway. I'm not crazy about Friday nights. Speaking of Glens Falls, I've been raving about the construction and how great the new field at Sherman Avenue looks, well now I've got a criticism of it. They've put lines in on the new turf for other sports like soccer, field hockey and lacrosse. I also looked at the rosters from last year to see who would be coming back. The teams that look the most intriguing to me are Glens Falls, Lake George and Warrensburg. Well Labor Day weekend means scrimmages and I'm going to be looking for some football to watch. Finally, I'm developing a serious crush on TV host Lisa Robertson. Lets say the gene pool was very kind and generous to her. Talk about smokin' hot...Leccese out.