Perspectives in Black

The Doer

2012-01-18T22:20:00.000-05:00

Martin Luther King, Jr. was more than a dreamer. He was a doer. Let us not just celebrate his dream. Let us celebrate his accomplishments. In the words of King, "We must accept finite disappointment but never lose infinite hope."

Courage Has No Color

2012-01-11T21:05:00.000-05:00

I am excited about Red Tails, which comes out January 20, 2012. It is an action movie about the Tuskegee Airmen. Acclaimed director George Lucas, of Star Wars fame, helped write the movie and spent $58 million of his own money to produce the picture because none of the major Hollywood studio wanted to green light an action adventure movie featuring a predominantly black cast. Those are Lucas' words, not mine.

January 20, 2012. It's an action movie about the Tuskegee Airmen

Return of the Pizza Plan

2012-01-11T20:50:00.001-05:00

9-9-9 is a joke. Unfortunately, Herman Cain (and his supporters) do not realize this because he's back promoting his bad idea. If you recall, the pizza promotion, which also doubles as an alleged tax plan, calls for the adoption of a 9% flat tax on personal income; a 9% flat tax for corporations, and would create 9% national sales tax. Democratic and Republican tax experts agree that Cain's 9-9-9 plan would increase taxes for the lower and middle class, but significantly decrease the tax burden for the richest Americans. When will a Republican promote a plan that helps the other 99%?

A big problem with Cain's plan is the creation of the 9% national sales tax. If you create a national tax, then consumers will not only have to pay the national tax, they will also have to pay state sales tax. For example, the Peach State only charges a 2% sales tax on groceries. Under Cain's pizza plan, Peach State residents would now have to pay 11% in sales tax - a 9% national tax and 2% state tax. The cost of milk just went from $2.03 to $2.21, assuming the retail price of the milk was $1.99.

Tebow Time / Matty (Melted) Ice

2012-01-09T22:16:00.000-05:00

Most people thought "Tebow Time" would come to an embarrassing end against the mighty Pittsburgh Steelers. People based their thoughts on Tebow's (and the team's) poor performance against the Kansas City Chiefs, but apparently, neither the Broncos nor Tim Tebow got this message. The much criticized star put forth an amazing effort to lead the Horses to a 29-23 overtime victory over the Steelers. Tebow finished 10 of 21 for 316 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also rushed for 50 yards and 1 touchdown.

I will be the first to admit that I have not always liked Tebow, but you have to respect the fact that the guy knows how to win the big games. In addition, he knows how to close a game out and make the big play when everything is on the line.

Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons could learn some things from Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos. First, when it is one-and-done, you leave everything on the field. You open up the playbook and you trust your quarterback to make big plays. The Steelers dared Tebow to beat them with his arm, and the Horses pulled out all the stops and allowed Tebow to throw the ball. On the contrary, the Giants posed the same challenge to the Falcons, and the Birds refused to even try. Instead, they opted to continue to run it up the middle.

Second, "superstars" play big in the biggest games and inspire their teammates to do the same. Tebow was motivating his teammates on the sideline. Moreover, he made the throws, wobbly passes and all, that he was asked to make. On the contrary, Matt Ryan (and Michael Turner) no-showed for the second year in a row. While Tebow was making plays, Ryan will be remembered for his slip behind the line of scrimmage in the open field on third-down when the Birds needed a big conversion.

I would have never thought that Tebow would have better playoff stats and more playoff wins that Ryan. Tebow time continues!

Atlanta Hawks, Circa 1972

2012-01-04T21:11:00.002-05:00

Birds Douse Heat

2012-01-03T21:35:00.002-05:00

Buried on the back pages of the sports column, nestled between professional wrestling – what up Rock – and professional bowling there was a brief mention of the Atlanta Hawks handing the Miami Heat their first loss of the season. The Birds beat the Heat 100-92. It was total team victory with 10 players contributing. Joe Johnson led the team in scoring with 21 points. Al Hoford led the team in rebounds with 9, and Jeff Teague led the team in assist with 5 dishes.

I know it is still early in the season, but I would have thought the Birds would have gotten a little more publicity, but I guess when the college football season is wrapping up and the NFL post season is about to start, the NBA (especially the Hawks) is regulated to back of the sports page.

On last Friday, Bean and I went to the Highlight Factory to watch the Birds beat up on the hapless Nets. Jay-Z needs to get the Nets logo changed immediately. About a month ago, I saw a mock Nets logo, which incorporated the Brooklyn Bridge; it was nice. Although the Highlight Factory was practically empty, Bean and I had a great time because the Hawks put on great show, beating New Jersey 105-98.

I was surprised to learn that Tracy McGrady is on the Hawks’ roster. Man has it fallen into obscurity. At one time, he was battling Kobe Bryant for the throne. I guess back-to-back knee surgery slows you down. Either way, I think he will be a good addition to the team to fill the absence of Jamal Crawford. Folks are sleeping on the Birds, but I think when you couple their continuity, athleticism, and youth with a shorten season, they are prime to go deep in the playoffs. If the Hawks could pull a San Antonio and win a title after a lockout, that would be special.

The Hawks have a chance because Boston is old. Chicago depends on Derrick Rose too much and I think with Jeff Teague in the lineup full time, they have a good chance of taming the Bulls. Indiana is young and lacks playoff experience. Miami is hungry and have the most talented team in the league, but they cannot score against the zone defense and the jury is still out on whether LeBron James can recapture his playoff magic. Milwaukee, what up Bucks, lacks an impact player; and I am not sold on their defense. The Hawks handled Orlando last year, plus the Magic will probably trade Dwight Howard by midseason (to a western conference team), so they should not be as dominate. The rest of bunch – Charlotte, Cleveland, Detroit, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Toronto, and Washington have issues and unless they show otherwise or unforeseen events occur, will not contend for a title.

#17 Michigan State 33, #16 Georgia 30

2012-01-03T20:42:00.000-05:00

The Bulldogs continued their unfortunate trend of only playing high caliber football for one-half. Georgia entered halftime with a commanding 16-0 lead and it looked like Michigan State was on life support. The Bulldogs had completely owned the Spartans during the first half and the G-Unit defense held them on the first series. The offense started moving down the field with ease, and then the wheels fell off. Aaron Murray threw a terrible interception and the Spartans commenced to score 27 unanswered points. UGA’s offense stalled, and it became evident that the Spartans not only had the momentum, but also believed they could win the game, while the Dawgs looked tired and without confidence.

Murray finished 20 of 32 for 288 yards, 2 touchdowns, 2 costly interceptions, and 1 fumble. It seems like a significant number of the Bulldog faithful are questing Isaiah Crowell’s place in the starting lineup, but I am starting to question Murray’s place. He is a great player who is worthy of starting at UGA, but I wonder if he can lead us to the next level. It seems like he tries to do too much, which leads him to make costly mistakes that are game changers. He has thrown too many bad inceptions this season after being flushed out the pocket or fumbled the ball.

I know that backup quarterback Hudson Mason has seen limited action against top shelf competition, but insiders say he is a legitimate quarterback who could start at a SEC school. Perhaps we need a new signal caller to reinvigorate the offense. I would like the coaches to hold a quarterback competition and allow Mason and Christian LaMay compete for the starting job.

Stepping into the New Year

2012-01-01T21:42:00.002-05:00

The New Year is finally here and I am expecting only the best. This will require lots of work on my part, but I eagerly embrace this challenge. As the lovely and intelligent Dr. Smiles likes to say, “The best is yet to be.” Each New Year provides us with an opportunity to implement the lessons learned from last year to make the coming year better.

The Test of A Man

2011-12-18T20:59:00.001-05:00

Author Unknown

The test of a man is the fight that he makes.
The grit that he daily shows.
The way that he stands on his feet.
And takes life's numerous bumps and blows.

A coward can smile,
When there's not to fear.
And nothing, his progress bars.
But it takes a man to stand and cheer.
While the other fellow stars.

It isn't the victory at all,
But, the fight a brother makes.
A man when driven against a wall.
takes the blows of fate.

With his hand held high.
Bleeding, bruised, and pale!
Is the man, who will win, fate defied,
For he isn't afraid to fail.

Atlanta Flames, Circa 1972

2011-12-18T20:16:00.002-05:00

The Tebow Enigma

2011-12-18T20:07:00.001-05:00

I never liked Tim Tebow as a college football player because he played for Florida, and his Gators beat UGA 3 out of 4 years. He helped UF win 2 national titles and he won the Heisman. I was so happy to see him turn pro, even if everyone, including myself, thought his prospect would be slim.

As an individual, I always thought Tebow came across as honest, hardworking, and most importantly, a leader. He appeared to lead his Florida team by example, and seemed to encourage them to be better. He accepted responsibilities and shared credit with his teammates. Moreover, Tebow seemed genuine in his beliefs.

I am surprised there is so much widespread hate on Tebow. He is an everyman, someone who was told that he could not be successful at the next level, but when given an opportunity, despite the hate and objections of others, his hard work and preparation has paid off and he is revitalizing the Denver Broncos. You would think this would be a story everyone would support.

Bulldog Barks

2011-12-18T19:48:00.001-05:00

For approximately 25 minutes, the Bulldogs looked like they could not only play with the Tigers, but also beat them in the SEC title game. Unfortunately, reality set in and the bottom fell out. LSU proved why they were ranked #1 all year and why they will be favorite to win the national title. Although Georgia lost, this year's team definitely redeemed the program and I truly believe that the Dawgs are on their way back to the top of the mountain.

Congratulations to freshman running back Isaiah Crowell for winning the SEC Freshman of the Year Award. Crowell finished the regular season with 847 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns. Unfortunately, Crowell's accomplishment and productive freshman season is overshadowed by his off-the-field misconduct and questions about his durability. I hope that Crowell has learned from the ups and downs of this season. There are rumors Crowell may leave UGA, but I hope he stays.

Raleigh, North Carolina high school running back Keith Marshall committed to UGA. Marshall, a 5'11, 190 pound, 4-star all-purpose tailback is set to enroll in January 2012 and be available for spring practice. I hope he can add depth to Georgia's thin running back corp.

An Open Letter to Isaiah Crowell

2011-12-02T22:30:00.000-05:00

Dear Mr. Crowell:

I am worried about you. I cannot imagine the amount of pressure placed on you - 30,000 plus students observing you on campus, 95,000 plus fans cheering (or booing) you Between the Hedges, and millions of anonymous people (like myself) on the internet analyzing your every move and posting their thoughts about your life. It has to be an enormous amount of stress on you, but I ask that you within to find your voice, look for a mentor for guidance, and seek those who wish to see you succeed.

You came to the University of Georgia with much fanfare, and many saw you as the offensive savior for our struggling team. On the field, you have had a successful freshman campaign, netting 832-yards and 5-touchdowns in 10-games. You have shown glimpses of greatness with your running ability, and your pass blocking has improved over the course of the season.

However, for all the good things you have done on Saturdays, I am worried about your conduct Sunday through Friday. There have been rumors since the beginning of the season about your work ethic in the classroom and on the practice field. You failed a mid-season drug test and was suspended for 1-game. Now, there are rumors that you have an attitude problem with some of your teammates, and fans are openly wondering whether your attitude and/or lack of work ethic will cause the University of Georgia to release you from your scholarship.

Mr. Crowell, you have an amazing opportunity to get a free education at one the best universities in the country. Moreover, you get to play for a championship caliber team (which you helped make), and you get to play in front of national audiences, which gives you the exposure to highlight your talents for NFL scouts. There are some many people who never get these opportunities.

Please cherish and take advantage of your position. Learn as much as you can from your fellow UGA students, teammates, coaches, and fans. Ask questions and seek out positive experiences that will help you grow as a person. Work as smart as you can, so that you can make the most of your wonderful opportunity. Do not turn your blessing into a curse!

If you continue down your current path, please know that you can lose everything and you can be replaced. If you do not believe me, just ask former Bulldog players Washaun Ealey and Caleb King, who were both highly recruited tailbacks, but were both released from the team. They were given multiple opportunities, but they continued to have attitude and work ethic problems. Eventually, they were dismissed. I want you to succeed, but it does not matter unless you want to succeed.

Sincerely,

S. Dash

Into the Ambush

2011-12-01T19:29:00.001-05:00

Saturday's SEC Championship game is fast approaching and I am excited to see how the Bulldogs match up against the Tigers. I realize the Dawgs are a double digit underdog and all the football "experts" are picking against UGA. I want to be optimistic because of Georgia's 10-game winning streak, but I am extremely cautious since Louisiana State is the #1 ranked team in the county, and they have beaten all their opponents convincingly (except Alabama). Further, recent UGA teams have laid down when playing teams in the top ten.

However, I think this Georgia team differs from recent teams because they believe in themselves and they definitely play with heart. They have been down, but not out. They have clawed and fought their way out of difficult situations, and they now know how to win close games.

In other news, I did not comment on Larry Munson's passing last week. My favorite thing about Munson was the fact that he was the ultimate homer. He did not hide the fact who he was cheering for, and I liked that when I turned into the Bulldog Radio Network, our play-by-play guy loved the Bulldogs as much as did. For a great "what-if" article on what it would be like if Munson called the UGA-LSU game, please click HERE to read the AJC's Mark Bradley's article. It's a great read and if you open your heart, you can hear Munson reading the text. RIP - Larry!

#13 Georgia 31, #23 Georgia Tech 17

2011-11-27T11:28:00.000-05:00

We run this state. The Georgia Bulldogs marched into Bobby Dodd Stadium and took a bite out of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Quarterback Aaron Murray continues to make the case for first team all-SEC honors with his phenomenal play. He finished 19 of 29 for 252 yards, 4-touchdowns, and 1-interception. Murray has really carried the team on his shoulders since the Florida game.

Starting tailback Isaiah Crowell did not play due to injury, but Georgia somehow accumulated 128 rushing yards by committee. Cornerback Branden Smith started, averaging 4-yards per carry and finished with 20-yards. Ken “Boo” Malcolm finally earned some playing time, finishing with a team high 39-yards. Malcolm’s ability to absorb hits and grind out tough yards impressed me.

The Dawgs’ young receivers continue to play above their years. Chris Conley and Michael Bennett had touchdowns, while Malcolm Mitchell made tough catches threw the middle. Upperclassmen Orson Charles led the team in receiving with 95-yards, and Aron White and Tavarres King added touchdowns.

The Red & Black Attack continued their dominance, holding Tech to 355 total yards. They further forced Tevin Washington to throw 2-interceptions and made him look otherwise inept.

The season comes full circle next week as the Dawgs return to the Georgia Dome where the season started. They will challenge the #1 team in the country, the Louisiana State University Tigers, for the SEC Championship. LSU’s resume is impressive, as they have dominated every team they have played, excluding Alabama. I imagine Georgia will be a double-digit underdog, and it is evident from watching the sports highlight shows that a majority of the prognosticators already believes that LSU will win.

The Tigers are a dominating team and deserve to be an early favorite, but I believe the Bulldogs have a punchers chance if their defense continues to dominate and force turnovers. LSU has two average quarterbacks; therefore, if we can limit their stellar run game (as we did with Tech) and make them rely on Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee, we might have a chance.

Offensively, the

Georgia

offensive line will have to play the best game of their season. They will have to protect Murray from LSU’s aggressive pass rush, and Murray will have to protect the ball by specifically not taking big sacks and throwing stupid interceptions. Further, the Dawgs will need Crowell to play as he’s the best running back on the team and the rest of guys will have to pull their weight when Crowell’s off the field.

Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, Circa 2011

2011-11-25T21:41:00.001-05:00

I travelled to Yaroslavl, Russia in 1995. While I was in the city, I went to a Torpedo Yaroslavl hockey match, and helped cheer them to victory. It was my the first professional hockey match, and it was so exciting because it was a "foreign" sport in a foreign country. The Torpedo are now known as Lokomotiv Yaroslavl.

Psalms 100 (NIV)

2011-11-25T20:54:00.001-05:00

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the Earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture; give thanks to him and praise his name.

Enter his gaes with thanksgiving and his court with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the Lord is good and his love endures foreever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

If

2011-11-21T21:22:00.000-05:00

By Rudyard Kipling

If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too:
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk to wise;

If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim,
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two imposters just the same
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build'em up with worn-out tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings,
And never breathe a word abotu your loss:
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virture,
Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much:
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son!

Kentucky 10, #14 Georgia 19

2011-11-19T22:08:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to the Georgia Bulldogs for winning the SEC East! I a lot of people wrote the Dawgs off after starting 0-2, but these guys believed in themselves and their coach and turned it into a championship season. Next week, the Bulldogs travel 75 miles down Highway 316 play their in-state rival, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. The State Title is on the line - We Run This State!

Invictus

2011-11-19T22:00:00.000-05:00

By: William Ernest Henley

Out of the night that covers me,

Black as the Pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeoning of chancee

My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged the punishments the scroll.

I am the master of my fate:

I am the captain of my soul.

R.I.P. Heavy D

2011-11-12T20:04:00.000-05:00

I was surprised earlier this week when I learned that Heavy D died at the age 44. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family.

#20 Auburn 7, #15 Georgia 45

2011-11-12T19:50:00.000-05:00

Georgia dominated every facet of the game and made Auburn looked inept – glory, glory old Georgia! These Bulldogs believe and I believe. Aaron Murray started the season bad, but every since the Florida game, something clicked. Murray’s played amazing over the last three games. He finished tonight’s game 14 of 18, with 224 yards and 4-touchdowns. Murray was accurate and hit players in stride. Moreover, he is distributing the ball evenly, hitting Malcolm Mitchell (85 yards and 1-touchdown), Michael Bennett (50 yards, 1-touchdown), Tavarres King (43 yards, 1-touchdown), Marlon Brown (25 yards), and Bruce Figgins (15 yards, 1-touchdown).

In addition to the Dawgs throwing the ball all over, the Bulldogs completely ran over the War Eagle. Smokeys – Isaiah Crowell and Carlton Thomas – ran extremely well. Crowell finished with 132 yards and 1 touchdown and Thomas finished with 127 yards, a career best. The glue to our dominate air and ground game is the offensive line.

On the other side of the ball, Todd Grantham’s Red & Black Attack completed smothered the Tigers. The defense sacked Auburn 6 times and held the War Eagle to 51 total rushing yards. Bacarri Rambo added an interception, his 7^th of the season, and it was beautiful.

Georgia plays Kentucky next week and has an opportunity to clinch a SEC East title. Let’s finish the drill!

#18 Georgia 63, New Mexico State 16

2011-11-06T08:48:00.001-05:00

On a positive note, I like that UGA’s tailbacks are friends and appear to participate in teambuilding activities. However, they need to work on the type of activities they select. It is unfortunate that they decided to smoke marijuana. The not only let themselves down, they let their teammates and fans down. I pray that Isaiah Crowell, Ken Malcom, and Carlton Thomas learn from these mistake and realize that not only has God blessed them with the ability to get a free education from the state’s top public institution. God blesses them with ability to also play Division I football in the SEC. Both opportunities are privileges, and both can be lost immediately. I hope they govern themselves accordingly.

The big question coming into yesterday’s game was would UGA be able to run the ball since Samuel is out for the season with a leg injury and Crowell, Malcolm and Thomas were suspended for failing a drug test. Initially, the answer was no as the Bulldogs only ran the ball approximately three times in the first quarter. The first run was a beautiful 56-yard sprint from cornerback Branden Smith for a touchdown. Then former walk-on Brandon Harton carried the ball twice and fumbled at the goal line. At the end of the first quarter, the Dawgs held a 7-0 lead over the Aggies. As I sat in cold Sanford Stadium with Wubya, I thought this game might be closer than I hoped.

Thankfully, the second quarter started and the Dawgs realized they were playing the Farmers and not the Gators. Harton adjusted to the speed of the game and ran for touchdown. Quarterback Aaron Murray then went on an amazing passing streak, which resulted in 5 touchdown passes to Michael Bennett, Brandon Boykin, Chris Conley, Orson Charles, and Aron White. Georgia went into halftime winning 49-3.

I am happy that Coach Mark Richt sat the first team at the start of the third quarter and gave the second and third team some repetitions. Hudson Mason looked sharp and showed an understanding of the playbook. Congratulations to walk-on Kyle Karempelis for scoring a touchdown. When was the last time white tailback scored a touchdown for UGA?

I realize that New Mexico State is not Auburn, but I am glad that Harton, Karempelis, and Smith were able to carry the load. If anything, it lets Crowell, Malcolm, and Thomas know that there are guys willing and able to take your place if you cannot stay out of trouble.

Georgia now controls their destiny with Arkansas’ win over South Carolina. The Bulldogs can win the SEC East title with wins over Auburn and Kentucky. The Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry carries even more significance this year.

#22 Georgia 24, Florida 20

2011-10-30T21:53:00.000-04:00

As I watched the first quarter of the World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, I simply thought, here we go again. The Gators elected to receive and one of Florida’s speedsters ran the ball back 70+ yards. Thankfully, the referees called holding. Next play, the Gators run one of their patented bubble screens and their receivers go for 70+ yards. The hobbled John Brantley, who has not played or practiced in two and half weeks, is slicing and dicing the Bulldog defense like Tim Tebow.

Luckily, Florida misses the field goal. Georgia gets the ball, but goes three and out after getting an initial first down. The Bulldog defense pushes Florida into a 4 and 19, and next thing John Brantley throws a 31-yard touchdown to Jordan Reed I could only think, here we go again. UGA scores a field goal on the next drive, only to allow Jeff Demps to return the ensuing kickoff for 99 yards. Here we go again.

Aaron Murray, completely out of sync throws a pass that hits Isaiah Crowell in the back of head, which causes the ball to bounce high and into a Florida player’s hand. This leads to a Gator field goal. Here we go again. Blair Walsh misses an easy field goal. Here we go again.

The Dawgs are losing 3 to 17 and our prospects seem deem. They show the Georgia fans, one guy in particular who is seated with his arms cross. Like many Bulldogs at the game (and watching on television), you can almost hear the dialogue in his head. “Why do come down here every year to watch Georgia lose?”

In the dark moment, this Bulldog team showed grit. Coach Mark Richt coached like a man who believed in his team. He recognized that Walsh was struggling, so he went end zone on 4 and 6 – touchdown Georgia! If one play characterized this game, it was this offensive touchdown. It inspired not only the players, but it inspired the fans that this game would be different, and in the end, it was as Georgia ended its three year losing streak to Florida.

Georgia’s defense led the charge. It held the Gators to -19 rushing yards. It sacked their quarterback 6 times, and forced 2 fumbles. Many of us doubted Todd Grantham, but his defense is nasty. Aaron Murray atoned last year’s game, finishing 15 of 34 for 169 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception, and 42 rushing yards. As I watched the game, it did not seem as if Isaiah Crowell rushed for any significant yards, but he finished with a game high 81 yards. My offensive game ball goes to Richard Samuel, who I have criticized most of season. This was by far his best game. Samuel ran hard and without regard. He finished with 58 yards and 1 touchdown.

Georgia’s wide receivers also deserve lots of praise. Six different players caught passes for double-digit yards. The 4 and long catches by Tavarres King Michael Bennett were amazing and should be included in the video montage before home games. I also liked the fact that Coach Richt utilized true freshmen Rhett McGowan and Chris Conley. Both caught for first downs in one of the biggest games of the season.

This was not a pretty game, but my beloved Bulldogs won, and that is all that matters. I hope that Florida and Arkansas will beat South Carolina and we will have a SEC East title, provided we beat Kentucky and Auburn. Go Dawgs!

It's Almost Cocktail Time

2011-10-25T22:25:00.002-04:00

“Nothing is ever done beautifully which is done in [rivalries,] or nobly, which is done in pride.” – John Ruskin

The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party is my favorite of the year. Of all of Georgia’s rivalry games, World’s Largest Cocktail Party is my favorite of the year. Although the Bulldogs have lost three in a row, I am hopefully this will be our year to reverse the trend. Here are my top four Georgia – Florida moments:

1. In 2004, the Bulldogs were trailing late in the game, and David Greene threw a long beautiful and easy pass to wide receiver Fred Gibson, who looked like he looking for any excuse to drop the ball. Thankfully, Gibson caught the pass. The Dawgs continued down the field to score. For the first time in 6 years, the Bulldogs beat the Gators 31-24.

2. In 2005, Georgia lost to Florida 14-10 in a largely uneventful game; however, this was the first time I went down to the World’s Largest Cocktail Party. We stayed in St. Augustine, went to the Landing, and tailgated along the St. Johns River. It’s a necessary pilgrimage for both Georgia and Florida fans alike.

3. In 2007, the entire Bulldog team performed the “Gator Stomp” in the end zone after running back Knowshon Moreno scored Georgia’s first touchdown of the game. It was a surreal and exciting moment to watch the UGA bench clear and parade on the field. I have never been so hype during a game. The Dawgs won 42-30, Moreno finished with 188 yards, and Georgia defense sacked Tim Tebow 6 wonderful times.

4. In 2009, the Gators destroyed the Bulldogs 41-17, but this was first and only time (to date) that Georgia wore black helmets, white jerseys with black lettering, and black pants with ride, silver, and white stripes. Most folks hate these uniforms because they stray so far from UGA’s tradition and based on the fact that UF beat us bad that year, but I like them and hope Coach Richt has the courage to pull them out the closet again.

One Name, Two Fates

2011-10-25T22:21:00.001-04:00

As I sat in the San Francisco Airport, I mused, "I want a book." Dr. Smiles, who was all smiles, lovingly replied, "I didn't know you could read. I guess after ten years, you do learn something new." I responded with a toothy grin. Feeling the effects of the marathon, I gingerly raised myself from the hard plastic airport chair and wobbled to the bookstore. Inside, I shuffled through the "bestsellers", "classics", and "pocket books" in search of an interesting read for the return trip to Atlanta.

The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates by Wes Moore caught my attention. It tells a true life story of two African-American boys who share the name Wes Moore. They coincidentally grew up blocks apart in single-parent homes in Baltimore, Maryland. Although they are superficially similar, their difference is major - one Wes Moore escapes the trappings of the inner city and becomes a Rhodes Scholar and White House Fellow while the other Wes Moore becomes a convicted felon sentenced to life in prison without parole. Is it a tale of mistaken identity? Hardly, but it is a thought provoking journey through the lives of the two boys who grow up to be men. Both are initially enamored with the promise of street life, but one Wes Moore diverges while the other is engulfed. As you read about their respective lives, you start to wonder how their lives turned out so different. What clicked for one Wes? At what point did Wes' second chance become his last?

I encourage you to read this book because "the chilling truth is that Wes's story could have been [ours]; the tragedy is that [our] story could have been his."

999 Is A Joke

2011-10-14T00:16:00.000-04:00

"So get up, get, get get down, 9-9-9 is a joke in ya town. So get up, get, get, get down. 9-9-9 wants to raise your taxes now!" - MC Hermanator

Georgia 20, Tennessee 12

2011-10-08T23:10:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Coach Mark Richt on getting his 100^th career win! It is impressive that all 100 wins were with the Bulldogs in a difficult conference like the SEC. Congratulations to defensive coordinator Todd Grantham and the Georgia defense for holding Tennessee to only 9 total rushing yards. The Red & Black Attack also held the Volunteers’ high-powered quarterback Tyler Bray, ending his 10 game streak of throwing two touchdowns per game.

For the second consecutive week, the Dawgs showed tremendous focus on their first offensive and defensive sets. You could tell Georgia wanted to win tonight in Knoxville. I know it was risky, but I liked Coach Richt’s willingness to go for it on fourth down. He is coaching fearless, and I think it is a good thing for the team because it shows he believes in his players. The season is still early, but for the first time in two seasons, I believe Bulldogs have their swagger back.

The offensive line played amazing. Aaron Murray showed great poise, going 15 of 25 for 227 yards. Moreover, Murray spread the love, throwing to 9 different players – Malcolm Mitchell, Tavarres King, Chris Conley, Orson Charles, Michael Bennett, Marlon Brown, Isaiah Crowell, Aron White, and Branden Smith. I am glad that offensive coordinator Mike Bobo allowed Murray to use his legs to pick up first downs as opposed to trying to do everything with his arm.

Isaiah Crowell played most of the game hurt, with injuries to his right wrist and ankle. The Vols loaded the box, but Crowell finished with 58 yards and 2 touchdowns. Malcolm Mitchell continues to impress, finishing with 126 yards. He left the game with a hurt hamstring. It is hard to believe he is only a true freshman.

The only low point of the game was string of penalties in the third quarter. The Bulldogs had reached the Volunteers’ 25-yard line, but after a series of penalties, Georgia was 3 and 57 on their own 25-yard line. It was embarrassing and championship caliber teams do not make these types of mistakes. Hopefully, Coach Richt will fix this problem.

Occupy Your Space

2011-10-06T22:09:00.000-04:00

"I lost a job, but I found an Occupation." - Occupy Wall Street Sign.

"We are the 99%. We will no longer remain silent." - Occupy Atlanta Slogan.

"Don't blame Wall Street, don't blame the big banks, if you don't have a job and you're not rich, blame yourself!" - Republican Presidential Herman Cain.

Although I am not clear on why or what the occupation movement hopes to accomplish, I like their nonviolent approach. Further, I am encouraged by the diverse nature of the protesters and supporters and I believe we can learn from these peaceful exercises of the First Amendment. Our forefathers used similar techniques during the Freedom Movement, and maybe we can use them now to occupy our respective places so we can advocate for ideals that benefit all Americans, like equality, compassion, tolerance, and respect.

Herman Cain's comments on the occupation movement are disappointing. First, he minimizes the legitimacy of their grievances by labeling them as a group of people looking for a scapegoat for their own failures. Second, he has to audacity to say that if you are jobless, it is all your fault, although the recession has proven this it not always true. I have met numerous people who worked for the same company for 20 plus years, have never been reprimanded, and always received good performances reviews, but still lost their job because they were allegedly making too much, the company was eliminating positions / off-shoring, or the company was going out of business. Third, he assumes that everyone wants to be rich.

Thank You Sarah!

2011-10-05T22:07:00.000-04:00

Thank you Sarah Palin for not running for president!

Why Washington Why?

2011-10-03T21:30:00.000-04:00

Georgia has had problems with its linebackers all season. Cornelius Washington finally has a breakout game against Mississippi State, finishing with three solo tackles, 1 assist, and 2 sacks. He celebrates his achievement by being arrested for DUI in Commerce, Georgia, which is approximately 30 minutes outside of Athens. As a result, Coach Richt suspended him for the Tennessee and Vanderbilt games. It seems like every time UGA takes a step forward, they have to take a corresponding step back.

I hope players and fans learn from his mistake. Don’t drink and drive!

Williams' Respect

2011-10-03T21:14:00.002-04:00

I am not much of a fan of country music; however, I will listen from time-to-time with Dr. Smiles as she likes the genre. I cannot name one Hank Williams, Jr. song, but I am familiar with his long-time Monday Night Football introduction. According to the Associated Press, Williams compared President Obama to Hitler and said that Obama and Vice President Biden was “the enemy”. In response, ESPN pulled Williams’ introduction from the Monday Night Football telecast.

In released statement, Williams declared the he “always respected the office the office of the president.” If comparing Obama to Hitler and labeling him as “the enemy” is respect, I hate to see what he considers disrespect.

We Run Brookhaven

2011-10-02T20:29:00.000-04:00

RAGE Racing participated in the 13.1 Atlanta event in Brookhaven. It was approximately 40 degrees this morning when the race started at Town Brookhaven. We ran through the picturesque Brookhaven neighborhood. It was fun for all those who participated.

Georgia 24, Mississippi State 10

2011-10-02T20:24:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was a wonder autumn Saturday. Wubya and I travelled north to the Classic City to watch our beloved Georgia Bulldogs take on the Mississippi State Bulldogs. Mississippi State showed their distain and disrespect for Georgia by jumping on the “G” during the pre-game, and the Red & Black Attack took exception to their actions. The entire UGA team, including the injured players, ran to midfield to push MSU of the “G”. It was a beautiful thing.

You could tell the Mutts’ actions insulted the Dawgs. Instead of playing out of control when the game started, UGA channeled their aggression and completely dominated MSU. The score appears close, but Mississippi State never had a chance. Our defense simply overpowered them and probably should have had at least three more interceptions. Sanders Commings and Shawn Williams had 1 interception each. Cornelius Washington had 2 sacks. The defense forced 1 sack and held the Mutts to 213 total yards.

Isaiah Crowell is legit. He hits the hole hard, has great vision and cut back ability, and he always falls forward. He still needs to learn how to black. Crowell finished with 104 yards off 22 carries. The touchdown run they reversed was sweet. Carlton Thomas added 35 yards and 1 touchdown and Richard Samuel added 28 yards. Although Samuels did not finish with lots of yards, he is starting to get his running back vision. I have been critically of his play, but I like the fact that he is willing to put team first and play whatever position they need him to play.

Coach Mark Richt and Mike Bobo need to talk with Aaron Murray immediately because he is in the middle of a sophomore slump. The 3 interceptions he had were reminiscent of the ones Joe Cox use to throw – just plain bad. Georgia won yesterday’s game in spite of him. Murray’s staying in the pocket too long and he needs to stop keying in on one receiver. On a positive note, he went 13 of 25 for 160 yards and 2 touchdowns. He threw to six different receivers – Orson Charles (46 yards and 1 touchdown), Tavarres King (21 yards), Carlton Thomas (14 yards), Michael Bennett (11 yards), Chris Conley (8 yards), and Malcolm Mitchell (60 yards and 1 touchdown).

It is hard to believe that Mitchell is a true freshman. He is not afraid to catch the ball in traffic and he makes the big catches. One of my favorite plays of yesterday was a catch he did not make. It was third and long and Murray overthrew the ball, but Mitchell laid out to at least to catch the errant threw. That is heart. We may be seeing the next A.J. Green.

Overall, Georgia played a great game and the offensive and defensive lines deserve most of the credit; however, I have two concerns. First, Aaron Murray has to find his game. He has not played a complete game this season and I believe he is trying to do too much. Murray needs to take it easy and let the game come to him. Further, Murray needs to take care of the ball. He has thrown more turnovers in 5 games than he did all last season.

Second, Georgia’s offense must improve when Isaiah Crowell is not in the game. The offense looks anemic and out of sync when Crowell’s on the sideline. The Dawgs had this same issue when Knoshown Moreno left games two seasons ago. Two things generally happen – Richard Samuel and Carlton Thomas fail to gain yards or UGA abandons the run altogether. Either way, this is not good for the Red & Black Attack. Hopefully, the Dawgs can get this worked out as they head to Rocky Top.

Falcons Rule the Nest

2011-09-19T21:05:00.000-04:00

Congratulations on the Atlanta Falcons on their come from behind victory over Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles. I will be the first to admit that I have been critical of the Birds because they always seem to lose the big prime time games. Yesterday, they silenced critics and Vick supporters like me. Maybe I can jump on the Matt Ryan Experience.

Why We Cheer

2011-09-18T20:47:00.000-04:00

Every since the NFL released the Atlanta Falcons’ 2011-2012 schedule, people have talked about the September 18^th game against the Philadelphia Eagles and the return of Michael Vick. As soon as tickets went on sale the game against the Eagles, they sold out. I looked at tickets, but I refused to pay $80.00 for nosebleed seats.

I am the first to admit that I am a Michael Vick fan. His electrifying play made me a Falcons fan, made their games appointment television, and made them a relevant team. Many fans of the Birds share this same narrative and that is why they still cheer Vick and want to see him succeed although he is not with Atlanta. He sparked my interest and sparked their interest in the NFL.

The media may criticize us for cheering for Vick and challenging our loyalty to the Birds, but we do not deserve this criticism because Vick played an important part in Atlanta’s football history. He led us to the playoffs, won playoff games, and made us a regular on Sportscenter highlights. Add in the fact that except for the 1998 season (and some of the Deion Sanders years), the Falcons were irrelevant before Vick and irrelevant until Matt Ryan arrived.

Georgia 59, Coastal Carolina O

2011-09-17T21:53:00.002-04:00

I have gone to lots of Georgia games over the past several years, and I cannot remember a time where Georgia laid the smack down as they did today. The Bulldogs needed a slump buster, and Chanticleers were the perfect opponent because they allowed our players to dominate and hopefully get their confidence back as we prepare to enter conference play. It was a perfect fall afternoon for The Shad and me to travel to the Classic City to watch UGA. We had great covered seats off the 50 yard line.

Aaron Murray finished 18 of 26 for 188 yards and 3 touchdowns. Murray’s passes were accurate today, but he needs to work on not focusing on one receiver and working through his progression. Additionally, I would have also liked to see Murray try to throw the ball down field. Backup quarterback Hutson Mason got some snaps with the first team offense and threw a beautiful pass to Orson Charles for a touchdown. I was looking forward to seeing Christian LeMay play, but he did not get any playing time; however, I did see him try to kick a football into the kicker’s net, which he missed. The football went into the stands and hit somebody in the head. It was funny.

Isaiah Crowell finally got the start at runningback and once again showed why he was highly recruited and why he should be starting. He finished with 86 yards and 1 touchdown. His 27 yard long run was beautiful. Get well Richard Samuel. Carlton “5’7” Thomas tried to show the coaching staff why he should get more playing time, finishing with 71 yards and 1 touchdown off 15 carries. I still do not understand why Georgia makes him run through the middle. Georgia’s other “mini” tailback, freshman Brandon “5’6” Harton got some carries in the fourth quarter and finished with 33 yards.

If I had to name one player that needed a slump buster, I would pick Tavarres King. You could tell the coaching staff was trying to rebuild his confidence as the offense went through him during the first half. He finished with 6 receptions for 65 yards and 2 touchdowns. If UGA is going to make a run at the SEC title, then they will need King. Malcolm Mitchell was also part of the “Dream Team” signing class and he is living up to the hype. He finished with 43 yards and 1 touchdown. Orson Charles reappeared after his South Carolina disappearance, finishing with 42 yards and 1 touchdown. Coming into the season, I had not heard much about freshman Michael Bennett, but he is scrappy and a playmaker. He finished with 40 yards.

The Red & Black Attack caused three turnovers and Bacarri “First Blood” Rambo had an amazing interception, but subsequently fumbled it for no apparent reason. We can only wonder what his impact would have been had he played in the Boise State game. The defense needed a shutout. It was also good to see Ray Drew come off the edges. He is still raw, but he has the size and speed to be a playmaker.

Georgia returns to league play next week as the take on Ole Miss in Oxford, Mississippi.

The American Jobs Act

2011-09-09T22:31:00.000-04:00

The national unemployment rate is approximately 9.1 percent (9.1%). The unemployment rate for the African-American community is worst, as it is approximately16.1 percent (16.1%). Approximately 6 million Americans have been jobless for 27 weeks or more.

President Obama took steps last night to address this pressing issue by introducing the American Jobs Act. According to the White House, the proposed legislation will get Americans back to work by: (1) giving tax breaks for hiring; (2) pathways back to work; (3) rebuilding and modernizing American infrastructure; and (4) providing tax relief for every American worker and family. The plan is bipartisan in nature and I hope Congress considers passing it or drafting legislation to get America back to work. As Obama said in his speech, the next election cycle is 14 months away, and we cannot afford to wait until then to act. We have to act now.

Tax Breaks for Hiring

Obama’s plan calls for tax cuts for small businesses when they hire new workers and increase wages for existing workers. Additionally, the government will cut payroll taxes in half, and small business can deduct 100% of their business investments.

I am happy to see Obama finally link tax cuts to tangible job creation, i.e. you hire and you receive a tax break. It is a simple concept because both the employer and new hire benefit. I shared a similar concept with Dr. Smiles last week. I did not think of connecting it with wage increases, but I like it because it gives employers an incentive to combat stagnant wages. Now, can we get Obama to propose a living wage law?

Pathway Back to Work

Obama’s proposed legislation provides a $5,600.00 tax credit for any business that hires any of the 877,000 unemployed veterans, or a $9,600.00 tax credit if you hire a veteran with a service-connected disability. Additionally, if a firm hires one of the 6 million long-term unemployed, then it will receive a $4,000.00 bonus tax credit.

It is good to see the State of Georgia leading the pack on policies to bridge the game to re-employment. I like these proposals because it removes the stigma associated with being “long-term unemployed”; however, I do wonder will it lead to businesses no longer hiring “short-term unemployed” workers so they can maximize the tax benefit.

Rebuilding and Modernizing American Infrastructure

Obama’s plan advocates using the approximately 2 million unemployed construction workers to repair America’s public schools and colleges, and the 3.9 million miles of road, 120,000 miles of railroads, 250,000 mile of waterways, 5,000 airports, and 300 ports. He hopes to accomplish the feat by creating the National Infrastructure Bank, where entities can apply for loans and loan guarantees, provided they can answer two simple questions – is the project needed and will the project help the economy?

Providing Tax Relief for Every American

Obama’s plan proposes that we increase the payroll tax cut for employees from 2 percent (2%) to 3.1 percent (3.1%). By doing this, the 160 million working Americans will pocket an extra $500.00.

More money in your pocket after two weeks of work is always good.

Luke 6:43-45

2011-09-05T21:11:00.001-04:00

43. No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.

44. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. Please do not pick figs from thorn-bushes, or grapes from briers.

45. The good man brings good things out of the good stored in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks."

#19 Georgia 21, #5 Boise State 35

2011-09-04T20:21:00.000-04:00

Unfortunately, the Bulldogs did not start their road to redemption last night. As much as it pains me to say, in five years, the roles of Boise State and Georgia have reversed. The Broncos established cause for why they deserve a shot at the national title, while the Bulldogs continued their trend of going belly-up against tough opponents. I truly believe that last night’s embarrassing loss is not an indicator of how the Red & Black Attack will do this season, but it hurts all the same. UGA has lost its way.

I doubted Boise State. I was at the 2005 game when the Dawgs destroyed the Broncos in the Classic City. Although the Blue Ponies had won many games and beaten some high profile teams, I felt that the deck was stacked against them – playing at the “Georgia” Dome in the middle of SEC country, a stadium filled with rabid UGA fans, playing a UGA team and coach disparate for a high profile win. Georgia was the underdog and Boise State had all the pressure. Unfortunately, I called it wrong. The Broncos are the better team. They dominated both sides of the ball. Kellen Moore is as good (or better) than advertised. I hope Boise State gets their shot this year.

I normally like alternate uniforms, but Nike’s Pro Combat uniform was hideous - too much red. The helmet looked okay, but it would have been better had it been one color - silver, red, or black. I am glad this was a one game experiment. The one thing I really liked were the gloves. The united gloves forming a "G" - amazing. I will definitely look for those at the Nike Outlet store.

The best part about the Broncos' uniform was the helmet. The over-sized horse on one side looked good, and since it was before Labor Day, the all-white was not a fashion no-no.

Here are the five things I learned last night about my beloved Bulldogs:

Once Issiah Crowell learns how to pass block, he is going to be a great back. He has great speed and powered through contact. He carried the ball 12 times and averaged 3.0 yards per carry, and finished with 60 yards. Unfortunately, Richard Samuel showed why he was moved to linebacker. The Bulldogs need a #2 back immediately.
Georgia has not found replacements for A.J. Green and Kris Durham. Wide receivers Tavarres King, Marlon Brown, and Rantavious Wooten were non-factors, plus they had too many drops and too many blotched routes. On a positive note, true freshman Malcolm Mitchell looks like he wants to fill the void, as he finished with 3 catches for 64 yards and 1 touchdown.
Orson Charles and Brandon Boykin are the truth. The Bulldogs' success is tied to their success. I liked Coach Richt's use of Boykin on offense. Give the ball to a true athlete, and he will make something happen.
At least for one game, Georgia's coaching staff reverted to the hated halfback draw play. It did not work several years ago, it likely will not work now. Georgia's offensive line continues to look bad. It may be time for Rodney Garner to go.
Georgia's defense is a work in progress and still cannot play a full game. Todd Grantham, it is time to make it happen.

2011-08-30T21:49:00.000-04:00

Juke (v): to fake out of position

Robin's Wardrobe

2011-08-24T22:05:00.000-04:00

The fine folks at ign.com report that Robin will have two additional skins – Red Robin and Batman the Animated Series Robin. Red Robin looks badass, although it would have been funny if they had Boy Wonder Robin, wearing his short shorts and fairy boots. The more I read about this game, the more excited I am. I hope they make Nightwing a playable character.

The Redeem Team

2011-08-24T21:47:00.000-04:00

University of Georgia football is a little over a week away. The Bulldogs hope to rebound from a disappointing 2010-2011 campaign, where the red & black attack suffered embarrassing loses to Mississippi State, Colorado, and Central Florida, and ended the season with an overall losing record. For the time in his career, Coach Mark Richt starts the season on the hot seat and fans are pining for a return to glory.

Georgia ditched their customary Division-2 warm up game to play #7 Boise State Broncos at the Georgia Dome in the Chick-fa-la Kickoff Classic in front a national televised audience. Coach Richt justified the switch, stating that Georgia’s return to prominence starts with beating prominent programs, and he’s right. The ascension starts September 3, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. After the Blue Ponies, the Dawgs host #12 South Carolina, who many consider the frontrunner to win the SEC East. I think the Gamecocks were one and done. After the Chickens, Costal Carolina travels to the Classic City for a beat down, the Ole Miss [Confederate] Rebels. Yeah I typed it.

Georgia continues their march through the Magnolia State teams as the host #20 Mississippi State Bulldogs. Revenge is a dish best served cold. The Dawgs leave the Magnolia State teams for the Volunteer State teams, playing Tennessee and the “richer” less successful brother Vanderbilt in back-to-back weekends.

The Bulldogs travel to Jacksonville to share “The World’s Largest Cocktail” with #23 Florida Gators. The Dawg faithful need this win, it’s been too long. The Bulldogs return to Athens to take on New Mexico State and enjoy homecoming week festivities. The “Defending National Champion”, #19 Auburn Tigers will be Between the Hedges, minus Cam Newton and Nick “Body Slam” Fairly. The Kentucky Wildcats come to town the following week, and Georgia ends their season against the “North Avenue Trade School” – Georgia Tech on November 26, 2011.

The Bulldogs is definitely navigable. I hope this team can redeem ole Georgia. This fan needs something to cheer for.

Batman’s Wardrobe

2011-08-15T21:32:00.002-04:00

The fine folks at ign.com report that there are multiple Batman skins in the upcoming Arkham City game. According to ign.com, individuals who preorder the game at select United Kingdom stores will get to select one of the above Batman skins. My two favorites are the Batman Beyond and Dark Knight Returns. I hope the above skins are available in the States as downloadable content. I’m really excited about this game.

Silverbacks' Tamed

2011-08-07T18:13:00.000-04:00

Wubbya and I went to Silverbacks' Park last night to watch the Atlanta Silverbacks take on FC Tampa Bay. Unfortunately, the home team was outmatched as the Rowdies beat the Apes 4-0. The MVP of the game was Jimmy Maurer, the goalkeeper, because the score could have been much worse. Maurer made several great saves, but he was left in horrible positions all night. The Apes must improve their transition defense if they want to be competitve. Additionally, Atlanta lacks offensive weapons and although they fail victim to bad refereeing, the team needs to focus on playing with the calls their dealt as opposed to arguing with the zebras.

This was my first time going to a Silverbacks' game and although they loss, the atmosphere and venue were top notch. We sat on the second row at midfield, but it appeared that all the seats provided a great view of the action. The fans were excited and passionated, and the employees were nice and helpful. If you want low cost, but enjoyable professional sports, I suggest you check out the Atlanta Silverbacks. They play the Carolina Railhawks on August 27, 2011; the Puerto Rico Islanders on September 3, 2011, and the Montreal Impact on September 24, 2011. Kick off is at 7:30 p.m., except for the game against Montreal, it's at 7:00 p.m. Go Silverbacks!

Georgia's Redeem Team

2011-08-04T21:13:00.001-04:00

Georgia

recruited a so-called “Dream Team” earlier in the year composed of some of the nation’s top high school recruits. Bulldog fans rejoiced. However, a promising winter morphed into a troubling summer as the Bulldogs permanently lost its top two tailbacks (Ealey and King) and lost a returning contributor (Thomas) to a suspension.

In response, Coach Richt re-commissioned Richard Samuel to the running back position. Samuel is listed number one on the depth chart, although he hasn’t played the position in a year and was suppose to be a linebacker this season. Georgia recruited Isaiah Crowell, a high profile prospect, but my UGA insider – Spawn of J – reports that he may have read too many of his own press clippings for his own good, but Spawn of J did report that the team has had a “Come to Jesus” meeting with him and he seemed responsive.

The Coaches Poll ranked UGA #22 in its pre-season poll. Generally, I would be disappointed with such a low ranking, but considering last year’s team was 6-6 at one point, with loses to Colorado and Mississippi State (no disrespect) and an embarrassing bowl loss to Central Florida (no disrespect), I guess I’ll settle for a #22 ranking. The Dawgs game against Central Florida was one of the most boring games I’ve ever watched.

This post started with me mentioning the recruiting “Dream Team”. I hope the recruits mesh while with the existing players because UGA really needs a Redeem Team. The red and black attack have it hard times, and we need a group of men who are truly passionate about the “G” and willing to bring glory back to old Georgia.

Resurrection of Spider-Man

2011-08-04T20:43:00.001-04:00

Spider-Man was one of my favorite superheroes growing up because when he wasn’t crawling the skyscrapers of Manhattan, he was your typical teenager. As Peter Parker, the secret identity of Spider-Man, he had to balance the complexities of the high school hierarchy, strike a balance between part-time work and school, and make time to chase and ultimately catch the high school hotty. Spider-Man was also different from other superheroes because no matter how often he saved New York City, the city never fully accepted him and J. Jonah Jamison of the Daily Beagle labeled him a public enemy (he’d be a terrorist today).

Earlier this summer Marvel killed off Spider-Man in their ultimate universe. They gave him a heroic death as he once again saved the city. Earlier this week, Marvel announced that starting in September; they’ll be a new Spider-Man in the ultimate universe. The new Spider-Man is not Peter Parker. He’s Brooklynite teenager named Miles Morales, who’s half-Black and half-Hispanic. This will mark the first time in history that a person of color will don the red and blue spider costume.

As a person of color and Spider-Man fan, I’m excited to see how the “new” webslinger in action. I hope Marvel doesn’t take the cheap route and make him the “Black” Peter Parker, but rather develop him into his own person by giving him a distinct personality and background with his own motivations for wanting to be Spider-Man. With great powers, comes great responsibility.

Atlanta Attack, Circa 1989

2011-07-21T20:36:00.001-04:00

I remember mom taking me to watch the Atlanta Attack at the old Omni. The Attack were Atlanta's professional indoor soccer team. There were generally no out-of-bounds, except when you hit the net, and the team's could free substitute. It was a fast pace and high scoring brand of soccer. I grew up playing outdoor soccer, but watching the Attacked encouraged me to also play indoor soccer.

William Tillman, I'll Keep My Freedom or I'll Give You Death

2011-07-20T22:06:00.002-04:00

Chris Carola, a writer for the Associated Press has a great story about William Tillman, an African-American merchant cook and steward who worked aboard the S.J. Waring. Carola writes that during the early parts of the Civil War, a Confederate raid ship named the Jefferson Davis, seized the S.J. Waring in the Atlantic Ocean. Five confederate sailors boarded the S.J. Waring and attempted to sail the ship to a southern port. The rebels told Tillman that once they returned south, they would sell him into slavery. Tillman, a free man by birth, replied hell no and staged a one-man, no surrender revolt. On July 16, 1861, he killed three of the rebel pirates and tossed their bodies overboard. Tillman then threatened to kill the two remaining sailors if the didn't assist him in sailing the ship to a northern port.

According to Carola's article, Tillman gain notarity for this one-man revolt. P.T. Barnum hired him to work in his New York museum where he told audiences of his daring tale of survival and how he single-handedly battled "pirates" off the Atlantic Ocean and killede three of them in less than eight minutes. Additionally, a court awared Tillman $6,000.00 for saving the Waring from sure destruction.

Special thanks to Chris Carola for writing a wonderful story. Please click HERE to read Chris Carola's story.

Running Out of Runningbacks

2011-07-20T20:32:00.001-04:00

The AJC reported earlier this week the UGA suspended returning tailback Carlton Thomas for violating team rules. Thomas will most likely miss the Bulldogs' season opener against Bosie State. This has been a bad summer for the UGA backfield as Washan Ealey transfered, Caleb King became academically ineligible, and Carlton Thomas just got suspended.

At this rate this rate the Bulldogs will have no choice but to depend on the 5'11, 210 pound freshman Isaiah Crowell. According to Scouts.com, Crowell has great balance, breakaway speed, and change of direction; however, he may lack durability as he was never an every down back in high school.

King's Out

2011-07-11T21:16:00.000-04:00

I still can't believe Caleb King is off the football team. It really stinks that he couldn't keep his grades up. I honestly believed that he'd have a break out year, especially with the departure of Washaun Ealey. Like Ealey, King's tenure at Georgia was disappointing. They both showed glimpses of greatness, but then they'd follow it up with subpar performances where they'd fall after one hit or hit the hole slow.

The college football season starts in two months and UGA's without their two leading rushers from last year. Maybe it's better they're gone so UGA can turn the page, similar to how UGA turned the page on Kregg Lumpkin and Thomas Brown. It took both of the them going down to open the door for Knowshon Moreno to get the majority of carriers. Although Ealey and King were serviceable, it was evident that they weren't game changers. I guess we'll see if either redshirt freshman Ken Malcolm or true freshman Isiah Crowell can carry the load for the bulldogs.

If Crowell is ready, I hope Coach Mark Richt uses him because UGA needs a game changer and from what I've seen in his high school highlights, he has the ability. However, if Crowell is not ready, then I hope Coach Richt eases him into the rotation because it's more important to develop Crowell into a healthy and confident running back than to throw him into the fire and he's no use for the rest of his UGA career.

Peachtree Road Race, 2011

2011-07-04T19:53:00.000-04:00

Dr. Smiles, Big Maw Maw, and I walked the Peachtree Road Race for the third consecutive year. Bean joined in the fun this year as he won entry at the Peachtree Fitness Expo on Saturday. He gets big ups for participating since he hadn’t trained for or expected to walk six miles today. This year’s race was 60,000 strong and was definitely the hottest. Congratulations to all who participated!

Gadsden Flag, Circa 1775, Declaration of Independence, Circa 1776

2011-07-04T19:42:00.000-04:00

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

Locked Out

2011-06-30T19:08:00.000-04:00

I hoped the players and owners would reach an agreement an overt a NBA lockout, but union chief Billy Hunter stated, “it’s obvious the lockout will happen tonight” and further stated “obviously, the clock is now running with regard to whether or not there will be a loss of games…” Commissioner David Stern also confirmed that he’s going to recommend a lockout.

Like most labor disputes, the disagreement centers on money. The Association alleges it will lose $300 million this season and further contend that 22 of the 30 teams would lose money. To minimize losses, the Association wants to institute a hard salary cap system with no exceptions, substantial reductions in length and amount of current and future contracts, and elimination of guaranteed contracts.

The players on the other hand, want a soft salary cap with exceptions that allows teams to retain free agents, an increased portion of basket related income, and maintaining the status quo on guaranteed contracts.

If the owners are serious about restructuring existing contracts, i.e. lowering them and eliminating guaranteed contracts, then there probably won’t be a 2011-2012 NBA season because I don’t see the player’s union giving back money already promised to them. Other issues allegedly include league revenue sharing and contraction. I support revenue sharing; it keeps the league level and helps small markets stay competitive with the big markets. I’m neutral about team contraction as long as their not talking about eliminating the Hawks.

I hope the parties can come to an agreement so games are missed. Both parties will lose the public relations battle because very few people with sympathize with billionaires fighting with millionaires over the distribution of money.

Atlanta Black Crackers, Circa 1920

2011-06-28T20:40:00.000-04:00

Bouncing Ball in the Summer

2011-06-28T20:11:00.002-04:00

I use to really enjoy watching the NBA draft, especially watching who went in the top ten. I’d sit and watch with my notepad, writing down player names, height, weight, school, strengths and weaknesses, and their new NBA team. Once I compiled that information, I’d then create the new players on my videogame and these players would start their virtual careers in the league.

Unfortunately, last week’s draft didn’t excite me because I hadn’t heard of any of the players. I realize we won’t find out the true value of any of these players until after year three, but there didn’t appear to be any players who could make an immediate impact. Although it’s generally a good thing when you team doesn’t have a high draft pick, but it didn’t help matters that the Hawks first pick didn’t occur until the second round. The Hawks drafted 6’11 and 230 pound center Keith Benson with the 48^th pick. Scouts describe Benson as a good defender, shot blocker, and consistent rebounder.

I hope I’m wrong, but I don’t expect Benson to do much to help the Birds get to the next level of success. I hope the Hawks utilize the free agent market to make an impact. Rumors around the Highlight Factory suggest the Birds may try to move Josh Smith in a sign and trade deal. This possibility scares me because Smith is the heart and soul of the club. He’s definitely erratic and his effort is questionable, but he at least tries for the spectacular in the biggest games as compared to Joe Johnson and recently Al Horford. However, the current roster has unfortunately reached its ceiling and Smith (and Horford) is the only ones with trade value. Johnson would have trade value if the Birds didn’t sign him to a ridiculous contract. It’s hard to believe that his contract is worth more money than LeBron James.

Here are my top five free agents the Hawks should pursue if Smith is dealt:

Caron Butler: He averages 15 point per game from the forward position and he could take some of the scoring load off Johnson.
Tyson Chandler: The Hawks need a big body that’s willing to play defense and rebound. Chandler didn’t impress me during the early part of his career, but he showed heart during the finals and the Hawks could use a player with heart.
Nene: He’s the only one name guy in the NBA. His game has come along way and he averages 14.2 points per game and 9 rebounds.
Zach Randolph: “Z-Bo” redeemed himself in Memphis and with averages of 22.2 points per game and 11 rebounds per game, the Hawks could use him.
Michael Redd: He didn’t play any games last season, but when he’s healthy he’s an excellent scorer.

I’m disappointed to hear that owners and players have not made progress on the collective bargaining agreement. The NBA is coming off one of the more memorial finals in recent history; the league doesn’t need a lockout. America apparently can’t live without the NFL, but the same can’t be said about the NBA. It’s a different demographic. According to NBA.com, the players are seeking $500 million in salary givebacks over 5 years. The owners counter that the league operates a collective loss of $300 million. I hope the sides can reach an agreement because the league’s previous lockout was a publicity nightmare and only the “un-retiring” of Michael Jordan saved the league from prolonged exposure.

Robin Strikes!

2011-06-21T21:31:00.002-04:00

Early last week IGN.com announced that Robin will be a playable character in the upcoming Batman Arkham City, provided you pre-order with Best Buy. Earlier today, Rocksteady Games released an image of the Boy Wonder.

According to Rocksteady, the playable Robin is none other than Tim Drake, the third youth to wear the read and yellow. In the comic books, Drake is known for his detective skills as he discovered Batman's secret identity through his own research.

Based on what I've seen and read on IGN.com, Batman Arkham City is shaping up to be a pretty cool game. IGN.com reports that Rocksteady has fine tuned the combat system, lengthen the story mode, and improved the challenge arena. In addition to playing as Batman and Robin, players will have the ability to play as Catwoman.

Gahuti

2011-06-18T20:46:00.001-04:00

The naturally dark canopy of the Gahuti Trail further darkens as clouds roll-in from the east. Ka-boom goes the thunderclap! Multiple strikes of lightening illuminate the deeming sky as the heavens open and droplets of rainfall pour from the sky. "Where five miles in and the car's only three miles away", says Dr. Smiles. "I saw a campsite a half mile back and the park entrance is only two miles back", I replied. Dr. Smiles asks and answers her own question, "We should hike the three miles to the car."

Dr. Smiles sets the pace, a frantic but controlled jog through the woods alongside the narrow cliffs of Fort Mountain State Park. Trees sway, then break from wind induced strain. Visibility decreases as the skies darken and the rain intensifies. Ka-boom goes the thunderclap, followed by lightening, illuminating our path ever so briefly. The narrow paths and steep declines of Mother Mountain challenge our balance and courage as we traverse through the storm.

"The path's blocked", yells Dr. Smiles over the wind. "We can't get over that tree. We're either going to have climb down the ledge and go 'under' the tree or climb up the mountain and go 'over' the tree", I reply. Dr. Smiles without hesistation states, "Let's go high." "Grab my arm", I reply as we start up the incline. She grabs my wet and slippery arm as we crawl up the muddy and uneven mountain terrain.

We glance at the fallen tree below, as we move through the untamed wildlife. I state, "Let's climb down to the trail", says I, now that I can see that we've passed the tree. "I'll go first", yells Dr. Smiles as the downpour increases. Ka-boom goes the thunderclap! "Ahhh", screams Dr. Smiles as her footing gives way and she slides down the mountain. She regains her balance as both feet hit the trail. I cautiously climb down. We're back on the path, Dr. Smiles sets the pace.

The rain intensifies; the sky continues to darken; ka-boom goes the thunderclap; lightening illuminates the sky as we continue through the shadowy canopy of the Gahuti.

Congrats Mavs!

2011-06-13T22:03:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to the Dallas Mavericks on an impressive finals victory. Although I wanted Miami to win, it's hard to go against a team like the Mavs. They weren't the most athletic bunch, but they played solid basketball throughout the playoffs and they team work humbled Miami's Big 3.

I'm happy for Jason "the Jet" Terry, he was one of my favorites when he played for the Hawks back in the day. It's also good to see a guy like Jason Kidd finally get a ring. Lastly, I was never a Dirk Nowitzki fan, but after watching him score at will throughout the finals and lead his team, I'm a fan.

National Hate LeBron James Day

2011-06-13T21:51:00.001-04:00

I'm amazed by the level of hate placed on LeBron James and the Miami Heat after last night's loss. One writer had the nerve to say that Miami should go ahead and break the team up and trade Bosh and/or James because they failed to win the championship. Even worst, John Kasich, the Governor of Ohio, took shots at James by passing a resolution bestowing honorary citizenship to the entire Dallas Maverick team. The resolution also read, "NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Dirk Nowitzik chose to re-sign with the Dallas Mavericks in the summer of 2010, forgoing free agency and keeping his talents in Dallas, thus staying loyal to the team, city and fans for whom he played his entire career."

I realize James' participation in the "Decision" was bad and his proclaimation of wanting to be a part of a dynasty with Miami was a little over the top, but I don't think it warrants this much hate. Professional athletes change teams all the time, and as an Atlanta Hawks fan, I wish Joe Johnson and the rest of the Birds at least act like they wanted win a title. The way people are "celebrating", you'd think Miami got swept out the first round or didn't make the playoffs.

In reality, NBA fans everywhere should be scared because the Heat were two games away from winning it all and they had only played together one year and their core group is young. If Miami gets a point guard that can play defense and hit the open jumper, that dynasty may not be that far off.

First Class

2011-06-12T20:42:00.001-04:00

I joined the million of others watching X-Men First Class last week. I went into the movie with little expectations and I was pleasantly surprised as it contained a great story and action. It was cool seeing a young Professor X and Magneto as they complied their team. The scene with Wolverine was funny.

Chosen One

2011-06-12T20:33:00.001-04:00

The media often characterizes LeBron James as the "Chosen One", the savior of the NBA and heir apparent to Michael Jordan. The mythos of "King James" developed early as he led St. Vincent-St. Mary's High School to three Ohio State Championships and earned the title "Mr. Basketball of Ohio" three straight years. James graced the covers of national magazines like Slam, ESPN the Magazine, and Sports Illustrated, and ESPN televised a handful of high school games.

James surprised no one when he elected to go straight to the NBA after high school. His performance in the league and claim to superstar status has gone without question until now. In the span of five games during this years NBA finals, a significant number of people are questioning his "superstar credentials."

Granted, James performance against the Dallas Mavericks ranges between below average and average, but I believe a majority of this criticism is retaliation for his ill advised participation in the "Decision" where he publically "dumped" the Cleveland Cavilers and their fans. It's amazing how one moment can turn the perception of one man from "hero" to "villain" in less than an hour (with commercial breaks).

Tonight's do-or-die for the Heat, and if James wants to truly live up to the moniker "Chosen One", he's going to have to play within the team's game plan and dominate on both ends of the floor, and remind everyone that "superstar credentials" don't disappear just because you struggle in five games, even if it's the NBA finals.

Batman of Africa

2011-06-09T21:13:00.000-04:00

Add caption

DC Comics hits the "reset" button in September 2011 and all their comics will start with new #1 issue. As part of the re-launch, DC is introducing the "Batman of Africa". He'll be the first person of color to wear the bat symbol.

As a long time Batman fan, I'm interested to see how DC handles this story. I'm also interest in whether this Batman will truly be the Batman of Africa, patrolling the world's largest continent, or whether he will be stationed in one city and one country.

Bye Bye Washaun!

2011-05-14T22:31:00.002-04:00

The University of Georgia granted last year's starting tailback, Washaun Ealey, an unconditional release from his scholarship. As such, Ealey can immediately transfer to a Division II school and play this season or transfer to a Division I school and play the following season.

Ealey finished last season with a team high 800 yards, but found himself running into more off-the-field trouble than rushing yards on the field. He was suspended from the team twice in a seven month period and recently was suspended indefinitely for missing an early-morning disciplinary run.

Although Ealey didn't help his cause, I do feel bad for him because he was stuck in the middle. First, Ealey came to UGA the fall after Knowshon Moreno left for the NFL. He found success his freshman year, but wasn't as talented or productive as Moreno, so the fans gave him mixed reviews. Ealey earned the starting job last season, but suffered from inconsistent play, costly fumbles, and off-the-field troubles. Now, Ealey is overshadowed by incoming freshman, Isaiah Crowell, the nation's top tailback recruit.

I hate that Ealey's time at UGA didn't work out, but I do wish him luck.

In Flames

2011-05-14T22:07:00.004-04:00

Atlanta's playoff run ends in flames with a 93-73 home loss to Chicago. The Bulls took an early and commanding lead and the Hawks never made any adjustments to get back in the game. As weird as this sound, I knew the game was over when Jeff Teague left with a right wrist injury because he (and Josh Smith) was the only player attacking the basket, distributing the ball, and trying to play defense during the series. I knew that when Jamaal Crawford came into the game, he was a liability in the Chicago series because he couldn't run with Derrick Rose. In addition, he ruined the flow of the offense because he relies on isolation plays and if his jump shot isn't falling, he lacks the explosiveness to get to the basket.

The Birds' future is uncertain as we move into the offseason. It's hard to say, but the team's core group - Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, and Al Horford - and they're supporting cast are not good enough to take us to the next level. Do we stay the course or do we try to trade one or two of our "superstars" for new talent?

The team needs fresh blood. Most people say trade Josh Smith, but I say keep him. At least he makes an impact on big games - good or bad. I'd like to see Joe Johnson traded, but his new contract is so ridiculous that I doubt any other team will take him. Marvin "Duck" Williams must go. He was a waste of a #2 pick. Al Horford is an all-star, but he completely disappeared in the playoffs. He's a restricted free agent, so I'd entertain offers, especially if a team is willing to trade a similar talent and a high draft choice. Jamaal Crawford is a free agent and wants too much money, so I'd let him go. Jeff Teague played great against Chicago, so I'd try to work him into the rotation with Kirk Hinrich, who plays good defense.

The Josh We Expected

2011-05-09T21:20:00.000-04:00

The best part of Sunday's game was seeing Atlanta play inspired basketball - diving for loose balls, running in transition, contesting shots, and making the extra pass. Every time you're ready to write off Josh Smith, he puts in an all-star performance and shows his true potential. Sunday's performance against the Bulls was one for ages as he finished with 23 points, 16 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 blocks, and 1 steal. If Smith continues to play like this, Atlanta will be in prime position to win their series against Chicago. I want to believe.

Home Disappointment

2011-05-07T21:01:00.001-04:00

It's the second round of the playoffs and the series is tied 1-to-1. You're in your home gym in front of a sellout crowd and a national television audience and you come out so flat and with little effort that your coach has to call a time out 43 seconds into the game to remind you of the seriousness of the game. I just don't get how a team can make it to the second road of the playoffs, steal home court advantage from the number one seed and still lack motivation.

On a positive note, point guard Jeff Teague continues to make a case for why he should get increased playing time next season. Teague showed great recognition of defensive switches and got the ball to the mismatch. I like the fact that he aggressively attacked the basket, delivering a strong layup or floater, and did not settle for jump shots, like Joe Johnson and Jamaal Crawford. Teague was definitely our player of the game for the first half and finished with 21 points.

Josh Smith was our second half player of the game. He started playing the brand of basketball he's built to play - banging inside the paint and slashing to the basket. He challenged shots, grabbed rebounds, and limited the number of boneheaded outside jump shots. He finished with 17 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 4 blocks.

Where were Joe Johnson, Jamaal Crawford, Marvin Williams, and Al Holford last night? They may have been on the court but they weren't factors.

Windy City Dud

2011-05-05T21:24:00.002-04:00

On a positive note, Atlanta played about as bad as they could, but were still in the game. On a negative note, they played about as bad as they could in playoffs. I'm a big Hawks fan, but it's hard to take this team seriously because they're so inconsistent. One game their up - playing great defense, driving through the lane, and giving the extra pass and hitting the open man. The next game their down - Iso Joe or Iso Jamaal, 3-point taking Josh Smith, and no defense.

You'd think the core group would have it together by now, but last night's 73-86 lost to the Bulls showed that it's still questionable if this team is ready for prime time.

Voice of the Hawks

2011-05-04T21:24:00.002-04:00

Atlanta Hawks play-by-play man Steve Holman makes listening to Hawks games enjoyable because he's not only descriptive; he's a homer and clearly loves the Birds. I also admire the fact that he's not afraid to call out the Birds when their playing bad, especially Josh Smith. Holman's not afraid to criticize Smith when he takes an ill advised 3-point shot or fade away, which happen more than I'd like to admit, and if Smith's playing poorly, Holman will quickly question why he's still in the game.

I also like the fact that Holman isn't afraid to make fun of the opposing team and their fans. His criticisms of Dwight Howard's "illegal moving screen" and "I'm superman" were good. Another example was Monday night when he called out the "loyal" Chicago fans for leaving the game early when it became apparent that the Bulls weren't going to win.

Birds Strike First

2011-05-03T22:08:00.003-04:00

The media (and most Hawks fans) predicted the Hawks would once again get out classed and swept out the the second round of the playoffs. It's happened two years in row with this same team, so it was definitely possible. Apparently, the Chicago Bulls felt they only needed to show up and the Birds would roll over on their bellies. Thankfully, the Hawks knew better and were able to go into the United Center and come away with a 103-95 victory over the Toros.

As a long time Hawks fan, who is critical of the team because they're so inconsistent, I was really happy that the Birds finally won a game in the first round. I realize the series is still early, but Chicago's a young team who is not playoff tested. If Atlanta can figure a way to stop the rest of the Bulls from playing well, much like they did with Orlando, there is a chance they could upset Chicago and find themselves in the conference finals.

The good thing for the Hawks is all the pressure is on the Toros. They had the best record in the regular season, they hold the #1 seed, Derrick Rose is the current league MVP, and Carlos Boozer was their big free agent. No one expected the Birds to beat Orlando or even win one game against the Windy City, so they should be relaxed and ready to use their playoff experience

Valor of a Spartan

2011-04-30T23:05:00.009-04:00

On Saturday, April 30, I (along with Miguel Lebanon and MLT) completed the Spartan Sprint in Conyers, Georgia at the Georgia International Horse Park. The Spartan Sprint is a 3.7 mile trail race with multiple difficult and challenging obstacles.

The first obstacle was a a series of traffic barriers stuck in mud. As you attempted to hurdle the barrier, a group of three men shot you with a high-power fire hose. My vision went white and my nose filled with fire hydrant water. The water was so strong that it knocked me face first into to mud. Muddy and wet is always a good way to start a race.

The second obstacle was going over and under a series of wooden barricades. The over barricades were approximately five feet high and the under barricades left a gap off the ground of approximately two feet. After clearing the barricades, you had to jump threw elevated car tires which were approximately five feet off the ground.

The third obstacle was a 35 yard mud crawl under barbwire positioned two feet off the ground. Honestly, this was one of the hardest obstacles in the race, mainly because I didn't practice crawling on my stomach. Initially, I pick the left course only to find out that the barbwire sagged to approximately one foot above ground, so I had slide horizontally.

The fourth obstacle was a river run. The water was knee high in parts and river bed sand was unstable and filled with holes. Luckily, no ankles were twisted and big up to the guy in front of us called out the forthcoming holes.

The fifth obstacle was a eight foot wall climb. We did our good deed of the day by helping a team of women clear the wall. I hate to brag, but I "beasted" up the wall.

The sixth obstacle was a ten foot cargo net climb. After the mud climb and wall jump, this was welcome obstacle. The only potential issue was missing the net and falling through holes. I'm sure that never happens.

The seventh obstacle was walking a multi-segment balance beam. My balance was horrible abs I fell early. As a result, I had to do 30 burpies, a kind of jump push up.

The eight obstacle almost broke my spirits, a 100 plus yard hill climb carrying a ten gallon bucket filled with black dirt. You had fill your bucket with dirt, carry the bucket and dirt up the hill and the walk back down the hill with your bucket and dump your dirt. Big up to MLT who "beasted" up and down the hill.

The ninth obstacle was pulling a cider block around a circle with a diameter of approximately 25 feet. This obstacle was easier than it looked.

The tenth obstacle was another crawling event. This time we crawled through a dark and hot plastic tent.

The eleventh obstacle was climbing another cargo net. This time the net was approximately twenty five feet. I wish I'd taken the time to take in the view.

The twelfth obstacle was another mud crawl under barbwire and through a fire ant colony. Luckily, I didn't encounter the fire ants. The major difference between this crawl and the previous one was that it was in front of the gallery, so your family and friends could see you wallow in the mud.

The thirteenth obstacle was an incline rope climb, which was really easy.

The fourteenth obstacle was a horizontal wall climb. I fell off the wall before I even got on good. As a result, 30 more burpies.

The fifteenth obstacle was a spear throw into a spartan dummy. I hit the dummy, but my spear didn't stick. As a result, 30 more burpies.

The sixteenth and final obstacle was combat with two spartan warriors with giant joust sticks. As there were three of us and two of them, we served our battle with the spartans.

Overall, the race was a ton of fun and I'm glad I was able to participate. I'm definitely interested in doing a Super Spartan, an 8 plus mile trail race. I've never been one to play in the mud, but this was definitely worth the extra dirt, loose of running shoes and extra laundry.

2011-04-29T21:27:00.002-04:00

Sun May 1st 5pm-8pm
Elliott Street SW
Atlanta, GA

PSA Casting Call: Need 300 extra cast
Please wear a solid black Tshirt

Thanks for helping to end dog fighting!

Birther Movement, You're Fired!

2011-04-27T21:17:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe that people still question President Obama's place of birth. He's already released a Certificate of Live Birth, a legal and certified document used in the State of Hawaii to confirm a person's birth. Birther's demanded more. They wanted to see his "long-form" certificate, theorizing that it either didn't exist or it somehow supported their fantastical conspiracy theory that President Obama was born in Kenya and his election was thus invalid.

President Obama directly confronted the Birther Movement today when he releaed his "long-form" birth certificate, after obtaining a copy from the State of Hawaii, which doesn't release the "long-form" certificate. Guess what - the "long-form" confirms that President Obama was born in Honolulu, which is in the United States, and it was signed by both his parents and the attending physician.

The funny thing about all this is Republican leaders like Sarah Palin and Donald Trump helped to mainstream this fringe movement, and after the release, they accused President Obama of using the birth certificate silliness to distract voters from the real issues like the wars and deficit. Talk about irony.

Coming Home

2011-04-27T20:51:00.003-04:00

The Birds are my basketball team, but at times I can't stand them. How can a team so talented drop dud-after-dud, especially in the playoffs? I listened to Orlando's blowout of Atlanta until the third quarter and then I called it quits. The more I realized, the more I realized the Hawks called it quits after the first quarter. Talk about uninspired basketball. Championship caliber teams don't flake out in a closeout game. Luckily, the Hawks have another opportunity tomorrow night. The Magic were on the ropes and played without confidence, one game may have given them their swagger back. If the series goes back to Orlando, it's a crap shoot.

Frustrating But Rewarding Play

2011-04-24T21:50:00.002-04:00

I love the Hawks, but they're so frustrating because their consistently inconsistent. For every moment of brilliance, there are moments of disaster and you wonder - why do I even support this team because it seems like these people don't even care. They start fast and build a big lead, only to blow them and have to fight to win in the final minutes. Josh Smith's play is representative of the Hawks overall play. He'll have a highlight dunk then follow it with several boneheaded 3-point attempts or ill advised no look passes.

The Hawks play is frustrating and they appear reluctant to take the next step toward NBA greatness, they handled their business this weekend beating the Orlando Magic, 88-84 on Friday and 88-85 on Sunday. I'm often critical of Joe Johnson, but good job making those 4 free throws down the stretch. The Birds held home court advantage at the Highlight Factory and they head back to Orlando to close out the season.

Atlanta Chiefs, Circa 1979

2011-04-21T20:35:00.003-04:00

Bus Ride

2011-04-21T20:24:00.002-04:00

By Kate Daniels

Niobe is very old now.
She has hardly anything left
to lose: her teeth, her eyesight
are already gone, her hair's
falling out in gray-black clumps.
All her children are dead.
So when the white man wants
to sit down, and gives her the Look,
she can't tell if it's tiredness
or strength that keeps her fixed
on the plastic seat.
Suddenly
everyone in very quiet.
Heat whirs in through the opens the door and tells her
to get out if she won't move back.
But Niobe won't
move back. She's lived
her life. She knows
she's right. Only god can hurt
someone as much
as she's been hurt.
And they aren't god
because they're scared
of her - an old woman
who's almost crushed
with only this much left:
to lift her chin
and look them in their eyes
and shake her head
and sit there, riding
all the way to Hisotry.

Woeful Offense

2011-04-20T23:00:00.006-04:00

Atlanta shot a horrible 39.5% from the floor and still only lost by 6 points. Orlando was worst, finishing 32% from the floor. The Magic's saving grace was Dwight Howard, who continues to play like a scoring and rebounding superman. As much as he may want to wear capes and flex his muscles, he's only human and I believe that fatigue will eventually catch up to him as this series progress.

The Hawks can improve their chances on Friday if Al Horford stays out of foul trouble because the Magic can't guard him, get Josh Smith to drive to the basket instead of taking jump shots, get Joe Johnson and Jamal Crawford in a shooting rhythm, and continue to play total team defense. The Highlight Factory will be crazy!

Birds Storm the Magic Kingdom

2011-04-16T20:14:00.004-04:00

I haven't blogged about the Hawks much this season because this year's team hasn't excited me. My lack of enthusiasm developed at the end of last season when the Orlando Magic embarrassed the Birds in the second round of the playoffs. My apathy further grew during the offseason when they overpaid to resign Joe Johnson and committed to bring back the same team - Mike Bibby, Joe Johnson, Marvin Williams, Josh Smith, and Al Horford - that struggled against elite NBA teams.

The Hawks finished the season 44-38 with little expectation and without much fanfare. They now start the 2010-2011 playoffs against the Orlando Magic; the team that previously killed their shine. Revenge is dish best served cold and this year's Magic isn't as good as last season's. The Birds beat them 3 of 4 times during the regular season; however, playoff basketball is a completely different animal and if the Hawks want to advance, Johnson must show up and play like an all-star, Smith must play within his skill set, Horford must continue to be consistent, Crawford and the rest of the bench must play strong, and somebody better slow down Dwight Howard.

Tonight, Atlanta proved that you can beat Orlando, 103-93, even if you don't slow Dwight Howard. What impressed me most was the fact that the Hawks actually won a road playoff game, something they haven't done in two years. Second, it was good to see them hold a lead in the fourth quarter and stop their opponent from rallying. Johnson led the team with 25 points, followed by Jamal Crawford with 23, Horford with 15, Smith with 13 and Kirk Hinrich with 13.

The Renaissance Man

2011-04-12T20:38:00.002-04:00

Paul Robeson (1898-1976) was a renaissance man who excelled in academics, sports, and the arts during his life. As a college student at Rutgers University (New Jersey), he earned membership into Phi Beta Kappa, one of the most prestigious and selective honor societies at a university. When he wasn't studying, he lettered in 12 varsity sports, even earning first team All-American honors in football.

After graduating Rutgers as the 1919 class valedictorian, Robeson entered Columbia University Law School (New York City) where he graduated in 1923. As a means of paying his way through law school, Robeson played professional football in the American Professional Football Association (later then NFL). He was a defensive end with the Akron Pros and Milwaukee Badgers.

He briefly practiced law in New York City, but soon realized there weren't many opportunities for blacks in the field in the 1920's. As such, he turned to entertainment where he immediately gained success singing "Negro spirituals" and performing on Broadway and in Hollywood and British movies. As he practiced his arts, Robeson fell in love with the languages of the world, and reportedly learned 12 to 20 languages.

Robeson impresses me because he was so well rounded and seemed to find success in so many different avenues. Many of us can't find success in one. His accomplishments are even more impressive because he accomplished them in a time where American society institutionalized racism and opportunities for blacks were significantly limited due to thoughts on race and economic reasons.

First Fig, Second Fig

2011-04-07T21:36:00.003-04:00

By Edna St. Vincent Millay First Fig My candle burns at both ends; It will not last the night; But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends - It gives a lovely light! Second Fig Safe upon the solid rock the ugly houses stand; Come and see my shining palace built upon the sand!