The Common Room

Euro 2012 Qualifiers

2010-10-17T21:26:00.004-04:00

First off, I want to apologize for not writing in a while and for interrupting my best of the 90's posts, but I just finally read my brothers Premier League breakdown. First off, I want to commend him for a great piece of writing, and I felt I would keep up with his soccer motif and write about the Euro 2012 qualifiers. Outside of the World Cup I would have to say that the European Championship is the most exciting competition in the world (yes, more than the Summer Olympics). Europe has the best concentration of talented soccer countries in the world, which was reflected in the 13 teams their continent sent to the world cup in 2010 (the next best continent, Africa, sent 6, including hosts South Africa).

Like the World Cup, The European Championships are held every four years, and teams face a grueling qualifying campaign that began this past September for most countries (Estonia and Faroe Islands had a qualifier in August, but neither country played in the World Cup), and runs through next October. For those that are familiar with the qualifying process for UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) teams for the World Cup, it is a very similar process for the Euros. The main exception being that 16 teams participate in the Euros and 13 qualified for the World Cup (starting in 2016, 24 teams will participate in the Euros). The countries are drawn into into 9 groups according to power rankings. The group winners and best runner-up will automatically qualify, and the remaining eight runners-up play a home and away playoff. In the playoffs the team who wins on aggregate score goes through. If the aggregate score is tied, the winner is determined on away goals, then a penalty shootout.

Every team has played at least three qualifiers to this point, and there have been some real shocking results, as well as some great underdog stories. I will go into a few brief game summaries, followed by the current group standings and my predictions for where teams finish.

Here are a few upsets by round that stood out before I post the current tables:

First Round:

First, was France losing to Belarus in Paris 0-1. The troubled French squad hoped their disastrous World Cup saga wouldn't carry over into the Euro qualifiers, but this loss did little to settle the French about Les Bleus. Belarus have been in good form to this point, (fun fact about Belarus: they are the only country in Europe to be on the US Treasury List of sanctioned countries).

The next shocker was a 4-4 draw between Portugal and the island nation of Cyprus who were ranked 63rd in the world at the time (they jumped 20 positions following the result), compared to Portugal's 8th.

Second Round:

First, was The Czech Republic coming off of a disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign losing to Lithuania at home. The Locomotive, as the Czechs are affectionately known to their fans...insert clever pun about derailment here.

Second, was Portugal losing on the road to surprising Norway. The 1-0 result has propelled Norway in their group hoping to earn themselves a spot in the competition for the second time in the nations history.

Third Round:

Slovakia had a surprisingly strong World Cup qualifying campaign in which they clinched an automatic berth ahead of The Czech Republic and runner-up qualifiers Slovenia. A 3-1 thrashing in Armenia was a surprising result the Slovaks hope won't keep them out of another major competition.

Serbia was another team who had a strong qualifying campaign leading into the World Cup, finishing ahead of France. Serbia lost at home to Estonia, also by the score of 3-1.

The next result was a tie between Northern Ireland and Italy in Northern Ireland, a nil nil draw.

Fourth Round:

Turkey got trounced by Germany 3-0 the week before they were slated to play Azerbaijan. The Crescent-Stars of Turkey hoped this would be a good bounceback, but their nightmare continued in a 1-0 loss in Azerbaijan.

England looked to continue their strong qualifying against Montenegro at Wembley, but were frustrated despite outplaying The Brave Falcons, whose performance truly lived up to their name. In fact, they almost stole three points, but a late effort rang off of the crossbar leaving both sides with a point after a 0-0 draw. Even more impressive is that Montenegro is tied with England atop the group with three wins and a tie.

That does it for the upsets, but I wanted to mention the fact that after 6 minutes in the Italy Serbia game, the match was abandoned due to crowd control issues (namely, masked Serbian fans straddling the glass and throwing flares onto the field. If you get the opportunity, check this out on youtube. UEFA are investigating the incident.

Standings (All teams have played four games unless noted otherwise)

Group A
Germany (12 Pts)
Austria (7 Pts)*
Turkey (6 Pts)
Belgium (4 Pts)
Azerbaijan (3 Pts)*
Kazakhstan (0 Pts)

Germany should run away with this group. Look for Turkey to have a strong last six games and finish second, but don't count Austria out with a 1 point lead, and a game in hand over the Turks.

Group B
Russia (9 Pts)
Ireland (7 Pts)
Armenia (7 Pts)
Slovakia (7 Pts)
Macedonia (4 Pts)
Andorra (0 Pts)

This is an intriguing group where every team has at least one loss. No team has shown any real dominance. Armenia have been the surprise team, and Ireland have only taken 1 point from their last two matches against Russia and Slovakia, they will need at least 4 pts from those two countries in their next matches to avenge their heartbreak in World Cup qualifying. My Prediction is Russia barely winning, Ireland second, with Slovakia third, and Armenia falling a distant fourth despite a surprising first four games.

Group C
Italy (8 Pts)
Slovenia (7 Pts)
Estonia (6 Pts)
Serbia (5 Pts)
Northern Ireland (5 Pts)*
Faroe Islands (1 Pt)**

Italy have not lost yet, but they also haven't buried their opponents. They tied Northern Ireland and were given a tie by UEFA for failing to control the crowd in their match against Serbia. Despite poor play by Italy in the World Cup, this group should be a cake walk for them, look for Italy first, and Serbia second despite a poor start.

Group D
France (9 Pts)
Belarus (8 Pts)
Albania (5 Pts)
Bosnia Herzegovina (4 Pts)*
Romania (2 Pts)*
Luxembourg (1 Pt)

France needs to continue to play well after their loss to Belarus. Belarus have shown that they are dangerous, and Bosnia and Herzegovina made it to the playoff leg of qualifying for the World Cup, but lost out to Portugal. France will take this group barely ahead of a surprising Belarus side.

Group E

Netherlands (12 Pts)
Hungary (9 Pts)
Sweden (6 Pts)*
Moldova (6 Pts)
Finland (0 Pts)*
San Marino (0 Pts)

Netherlands didn't lose one qualifying game for the World Cup, and lost in Extra Time to Spain in the World Cup Final. They will easily take this group, which has no other country that qualified for the World Cup. Sweden will finish second.

Group F

Greece (8 Pts)
Croatia (7 Pts)*
Georgia (6 Pts)
Israel (4 Pts)
Latvia (4 Pts)
Malta (0 Pts)*

Greece had a rough showing at the World Cup after an impressive playoff win over The Ukraine. Croatia had a lackluster qualifying effort in the World Cup, but are undefeated to this point in the Euro qualifiers. Croatia will finish first and Greece will finish second, no other teams will pose a threat in this group.

Group G

Montenegro (10 Pts)
England (7 Pts)*
Switzerland (3 Pts)*
Bulgaria (3 Pts)*
Wales (0 Pts)*

This is one of the toughest groups. Montenegro are playing great ball and England are one of the world's best. Switzerland are much better than they have played and Dimitar Berbatov and Bulgaria are no pushovers. England were unlucky not to defeat Montenegro, as they outplayed the Brave Falcons. This is not to say Montenegro are not a formidable opponent, they have beaten everyone else in the group so far, and showed some serious courage drawing with England at Wembley. England will finish first and Switzerland will barely edge out Montenegro.

Group H

Norway (9 Pts)*
Portugal (7 Pts)
Denmark (6 Pts)*
Cyprus (1 Pts)*
Iceland (0 Pts)*

Norway have been impressive so far getting the maximum 9 points in three games. Portugal are in trouble, but are no where near out of it. Look for Norway to get an automatic bid for finishing first continuing in their impressive form and Denmark and Portugal to battle out for second, but Portugal coming out on top.

Group I

Spain (9 Pts)*
Czech Republic (6 Pts)*
Scotland (4 Pts)
Lithuania (4 Pts)*
Liechtenstein (0 Pts)*

Spain appear unstoppable at the moment as should have little trouble winning this group. A young Czech Republic side with some veteran leadership shouldn't have many more mistakes like their loss to Lithuania on their way to a second place finish.

*Indicates team only played three matches so far
**Indicates team has played five matches so far

I will try to update this as the rounds progress.

Quizno's Gettin' It

2010-08-01T20:37:00.001-04:00

Seriously ?

2010-07-14T17:52:00.002-04:00

This is a trailer for a show on the Animal Planet. A show that apparently has been on for one season already (I have no idea how), it is called "Pit Boss" and I'll let the trailer do the talking.

Promising Trailers

2010-07-05T23:36:00.005-04:00

Keep an eye out for these movies to hit your local theater.

"Flipped"

"Somewhere"

"Get Low"

"Nowhere Boy"

Nike's version of the Madden Curse

2010-07-01T11:54:00.004-04:00

I don't know if you saw the 3 minute commercial that Nike debuted before the World Cup (why they created a 3 minute commercial I'm not sure), but it seems that it helped seal the fate for many of the star players in it. The video, called "Write The Future," featured international soccer stars such as Ronaldinho, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Wayne Rooney, among others. Now, as the World Cup continues on to the Quarterfinals, it seems that none of these players are actually left in the tournament (Ronaldinho didn't even make it to South Africa)! Below I've included the original, kick-ass video (which costs about $30 million to make...no big deal or anything) as well as a funny fan video that outlines this phenomenon. John Madden would be proud.

Props to Jeff Klein for pointing out this situation, but I felt it too good not to share.

A Beginner's Guide to the English Premier League

2010-06-29T15:20:00.005-04:00

When the United States got knocked out of the World Cup, most Americans were resigned to the fact that they will not watch another soccer match until June, 2014. That is when the next World Cup kicks off in Brazil. For those Americans who want to continue watching the beautiful game at its best, this post is for you. This post will help beginners dive into the wonderful world of English Premier League Football. It is a team by team breakdown of sorts. It will help you to find the club that suits you best as a fan.

The Recently Promoted:

Blackpool F.C.

Briefing - The Seasiders are the biggest surprise of the three newly promoted team. Despite finishing 6th in The Championship (the second highest league in England), Blackpool won the play-off in dramatic fashion to find themselves in the EPL. Blackpool plays their home matches at Bloomfield Road, a small stadium that can has a capacity of 12,555.

Redeeming Quality - They are going to come into this season as one of the biggest underdogs in recent history, could make for a nice story.

Buyer Beware - Becoming a fan of any newly promoted club is a risky call. Especially with Blackpool, who are not expected to have a very long shelf life in the Premiership. However, if one does choose 'Pool as the team of his or her liking, they can look at Stoke City for an example of a team that has stayed in the Premiership after most thought they'd go right back down.

West Bromwich Albion

Briefing - Since 2000, the Baggies have been back and forth between the Premier League and The Championship several times. They are having trouble finding their place in top flight football. Under former Italian international, Roberto Di Matteo, Albion hope to finally find that elusive niche.

Redeeming Qualities - Besides having a great nickname, Albion also have an intense rivalry with two premiership sides, Aston Villa and Wolverhampton.

Buyer Beware - Can not find a way to stay in top flight football.

Newcastle United

Briefing - Newcastle had never been relegated from the Premier League until 2009. After a debacle of a season that was filled with ownership issues, managerial problems, and terrible play, the Magpies found themselves in The Championship in 2010. They showed why they had never been there before though, and earned automatic promotion in record time.

Redeeming Qualities - One of only a few teams in the North of England, the Toon Army is a great fan base with few bandwagoners. They have a great rivalry with Sunderland, and were spotlighted in a movie called Goal: The Dream Begins.

Buyer Beware - Definitely not the most stable of clubs at the moment.

The Pack

West Ham United

Briefing - West Ham is one of five teams that play their home matches in London. They also have one of the great developmental academies in all of the EPL. Because of this they are known as the "Academy of Football." They have been in the Premiership since gaining promotion in 2005, but have not finished above 9th since.

Redeeming Qualities- The developmental academy is definitely something to brag about. Like Newcastle, the Hammers also have been featured in a motion picture. The movie Green Street Hooligans focused on the club's notorious hooligans. Playing in London can't hurt either.

Buyer Beware - West Ham finished one spot above the relegation zone in the 09/10 campaign. Also, Robert Green - the goalie now known for his gaffe against the USA, is the goalkeeper for West Ham.

Wigan Athletic

Briefing - The youngest club in the Premier League (formed in 1932), Wigan Athletic have been in the top flight since 2005. While this is their only spell in the top division, they have shown that they can hang and have not really shown any signs of letting up.

Redeeming Qualities - Their nickname, The Latics, is pretty fly. They have a pretty intense rivalry with Bolton and play in Manchester.

Buyer Beware - Wigan had the lowest average attendance in the EPL. They also lost two games by more than 8 goals last season, a 9-1 dismantling to Tottenham and an 8-0 drubbing versus Chelsea.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Briefing - Wolverhampton are playing their second straight season of Premier League Football. They play their matches out of the city of Wolverhampton in the West Midlands. They finished 15th in the 09/10 campaign.

Redeeming Qualities - Wolverhampton is a pretty cool name for a city. They have a cool nickname, Wolves, a great kit, and a wild history of hooliganism. Lastly, Marcus Hahnemann, an American goalkeeper, plays for Wolves.

Buyer Beware - Although Wolves did stay in the EPL last year, they haven't shown yet that they are going to be able to stay in the top division.

Bolton Wanderers

Briefing - Bolton have been in the Premier League since 2001. They play their home matches at Reebok Stadium in Greater Manchester.

Redeeming Qualities - Bolton have players from Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and the United States on their roster. They have been around the top flight for a long time now, and are a stable club.

Buyer Beware - Bolton have spent a total of 71 seasons in the top flight without ever winning a championship, most of any club. With Manchester United and Manchester City nearby, they do not get much attention from the media.

Sunderland

Briefing - Sunderland are one of the northernmost teams in the EPL. They play their home matches at The Stadium of Light. Since Niall Quinn took over the team, they have had an influx of Irish players, sometimes being called "Sund-Ireland."

Redeeming Qualities - Awesome nickname. Awesome kits. Awesome stadium name. They also have a raucous fan base. Big rivalry with Newcastle that culminated in several Sunderland fans making fake bids to buy Newcastle when they were put up for 100 million pounds.

Buyer Beware - They haven't finished above 13th since being promoted in 2007.

Fulham

Briefing - Fulham are another one of the clubs that play out of London. They play their home matches at Craven Cottage. They lost in the UEFA Europa League Final in extra time to Atletico Madrid this past season. They have been in the EPL since 2001.

Redeeming Qualities- Besides having a cool nickname, The Cottagers, Fulham are notorious for signing American players. Brian McBride captained the team in the past, and Clint Dempsey is a current fan favorite.

Buyer Beware - Have flirted with relegation while in the EPL. In 2007/2008, they got by on goal differential. Fulham have a rivalry with Chelsea, and they are usually on the wrong side of the rivalry.

Stoke City

Briefing - Stoke were promoted two seasons ago and were picked by bookmakers all over to go right back down. However, the Potters surprised everyone and have finished mid-table in both of their seasons in the EPL.

Redeeming Qualities - Stoke have a lot going for them in our eyes. Especially for new fans looking for a team they could call their own. They have a great stadium, a great nickname, a great kit, and a general likability about them. They have a great fan base and regularly sell out Brittania Stadium. The Potters also have one of the most infamous firms, a firm is a hooligan group or militia, called the Naughty Forty. In 2003 the BBC described Stoke City as having "one of the most active and organised football hooligan firms in England".

Buyer Beware - The Potters have only been in top flight football for two years, so they still are not cemented in the EPL.

Blackburn Rovers

Briefing - Since 1995, only one team not named Manchester United, Arsenal, or Chelsea has won the Premier League. That team? Blackburn Rovers.

Redeeming Qualities - Blackburn have been in the Premier League since 2002. They have a solid manager in Sam Allardyce and a great captain in Ryan Nelsen. They have bitter rivalries with Man Utd., Man City, and Bolton.

Buyer Beware - Blackburn have not shown the same promise since the '95 title. They also have the worst attendance record in the EPL, which has a lot to do with the fact that it is very hard to get to Ewood Park, their home grounds.

Birmingham City

Briefing - The Blues were promoted before last season. They not only staved off relegation, something they had trouble doing in the past, they surprised many and finished in 9th place, their best since 1951.

Redeeming Qualities - Birmingham City have a lot of momentum coming into the new campaign. They have a great fan base, called the Blue Noses, which is pretty cool too.

Buyer Beware - Still only one season fresh off their promotion, one has to tread carefully with the Brummies.

The Challengers

Everton

Briefing - The Toffees are my favorite team, and have been since 1998 when I took a liking to the EPL. They play their home matches in Liverpool at Goodison Park. Because of this, they have a great rivalry with Liverpool, known as the Merseyside Derby.

Redeeming Qualities - Everton are known as "The People's Club." They are not the most successful club, but they own the longest streak of playing in England's top flight at 108 years. Everton has one of the best managers in the game in David Moyes and also have one of the best academies in the league. Their goalkeeper, American hero Tim Howard, is one of the tops in the league. Add one of the league's most passionate fan bases to all of this, and you have a great club.

Buyer Beware - Everton never seem to have the resources to make that final push into the top 4.

Liverpool

Briefing - Liverpool are the most successful team in English Football. They have won more trophies than any other team in England.

Redeeming Qualities - Liverpool are one of the most famous clubs in England. They are well represented around the world with many fans in every part of the world. They also have a great captain in Steven Gerrard.

Buyer Beware - Big time bandwagon. The Reds finished a disappointing 7th last year.

Aston Villa

Briefing - After Everton, the Villains have been in top flight football the longest of any other team at 100 years in a row. They play in Birmingham and are the most successful team in that city.

Redeeming Qualities - Villa is one of the teams that have no threat of a band wagon, and also are not really a threat to be relegated. They have solid a solid rivalry with Birmingham City called "The Second City Derby."

Buyer Beware - Nothing too bad here other than the fact that they can't make that final step into the top 4.

Manchester City

Briefing - Known as Manchester's "other team", the Citizens have been working hard, and spending harder to make sure that moniker disappears soon. With a rich Sheikh owner, City has bought some of the biggest names in football in the past few years.

Redeeming Qualities - Definitely one of the most talented teams in the league. They have a fierce rivalry with Man Utd. Every game is an adventure to watch with City, because of all their talent.

Buyer Beware - They have decided to start buying rather than developing are quickly turning into one of the league's biggest villains.

The Top 4

Tottenham Hotspur

Briefing - Spurs are another London team and play their home matches at White Hart Lane. They have qualified to play in the UEFA Champions League for the upcoming campaign.

Redeeming Qualities - Playing Champions League Football certainly is a plus and Spurs are the only team in the Big 4 that won't have a big bandwagon. Being a London team, Tottenham gets a good deal of attention from the media. They have a fierce rivalry, known as the North London Derby, with Arsenal.

Buyer Beware - Spurs fluctuate within the league and are known as one of the more inconsistent clubs.

Arsenal

Briefing - The Gunners have won 13 titles in the top division. They have also won 13 FA Cups. They are another one of the London sides. They play their home matches at Emirates Stadium in North London.

Redeeming Qualities - Arsenal seem to be the most well-liked of any of the "Big 4" by fans of other clubs. They have a lot of young talent which they develop and run a solid, classy club. They do have a loyal fan base.

Buyer Beware - Big time bandwagon and a lot of "pseudo" fans.

Manchester United

Briefing - The most recognizable name in the EPL. They have won the Premier League more than any other side, and have one of the best coaches of all-time in Sir Alex Ferguson. Their home ground, Old Trafford, is one of the most recognizable stadiums in the world.

Redeeming Qualities - They win. A lot.

Buyer Beware - Don't even think about it.

Chelsea

Briefing - The Blues are the defending Premier League and F.A. Cup champions. They play their games at Stamford Bridge in London.

Redeeming Qualities - They aren't Manchester United.

Buyer Beware - Bandwagonry!

There you have it. The 20 English Premier League teams broken down, and simplified.

The World Reacts

2010-06-24T18:55:00.002-04:00

Dear Ghana and the World,

The Yanks Are Coming.

We Deserve This.

2010-06-21T23:15:00.005-04:00

Citizens of the World,

We deserve to be happy. And the following will make us happy!

And now, back to your regularly scheduled Oil Spill/Greek Economic Travesty/North Korea & South Korea about to go to war/Jamaican Drug War/Kyrgyzstan Ethnic Cleansing/

USA v. England: Lego Style

2010-06-15T18:45:00.001-04:00

World Cup Predictor

2010-06-10T12:51:00.004-04:00

With the world cup kickoff less than twenty-four hours away I am going to make my predictions for the tournament. I am going to take into account qualifying, injuries, and friendlies leading up to the world cup.

World Cup Predictions:

Group A:

In this group, are host nation South Africa, France, Uruguay, and Mexico. Conventional wisdom would have most people saying France should come out on op of this group with Mexico and Uruguay battling out for the second spot. This year, however, France saw a lackluster qualifying campaign, barely eeking by Ireland in a playoff that will remain one of the most controversial games in World Cup qualifying history. This game may also lead to the institution of instant replay or extra officals in future qualifiers. All this and the fact that France lost to 82nd ranked China at home have the French very nervous about their chances in the group stage. Mexico are one of the most dynamic and dangerous squads in the world right now. Their fast paced play and relentless attack have the potential to beat most countries in the world. They have had one of the most rigorous friendly schedules in the world with games against Chile, England, The Netherlands, and Italy. Three of those four matches were played in Europe where North American teams traditionally struggle. El Tri lost close matches to England and the Netherlands, but then shocked Italy 1-0. They also beat Chile at home before these games. Uruguay are a wildcard, they have played very few tune up matches, and squeaked into the World Cup after a playoff with Costa Rica. They netted three away goals against a staunch Swiss defense en route to a 3-1 win, and beat Israel earlier this week. No host country has ever failed to exit the group stage. A few short months ago not many people expected Bafana Bafana to have any chance at getting through the group. With new coach Carlos Alberto Parreira the South Africans will look to keep this trend going. They have strung together wins against Guatemala, Colombia, and most recently a dark horse Danish side. Look for Bafana Bafana to feed off of the home energy to get through with a 1-1-1 record.

Prediction:

1. Mexico 3-0-0
2. South Africa 1-1-1
3. France 0-1-2
4. Uruguay 0-2-1

Group B:

This group will see a more clear cut frontrunner, but the second spot is up for grabs. Group B includes Argentina, Greece, Korea Republic, and Nigeria. Argentina are the heavy favorite in this group despite narrowly winning the fourth and final qualifying spot in a much anticipated match in Montevideo, Uruguay between bitter rival countries. Led by one of Argentina's most beloved players Diego Maradonna, people have questioned his coaching ability with all of the qualifying struggles. Since qualifying for the World Cup Argentina have had a number of soft tune up matches, but also beat Germany 1-0 on the road. Greece were another European playoff winner over the slight favorites, Ukraine, but they have not won a match since. The Pirate Ship have followed their currency into the dumps losing matches to Senegal and Paraguay and they tied North Korea who are the lowest ranked team in the tournament. Nigeria also played a friendly against the North Koreans, but were 3-1 victors. They also racked up ties against Saudi Arabia and Colombia. Nigeria are playing on their home continent, so look for a slight edge against their competition. The final team in this group are South Korea, who have been disappointing since their improbable semifinal run on home turf eight years ago. They have shown some promise in qualifying matches with wins against Ecuador, and an away win against continental rival Japan. They also dropped an embarrassing game to Belarus, but bounced back last week with a close 1-0 loss against power house Spain. Every year a powerhouse limps into the tournament only to dominate competition, and I believe that team will be Argentina this year. They should easily win this group. Greece will in all likelihood finish last unless they can turn their countries economic woes into a rallying point. It will be a very interesting battle for second and third between Nigeria and Korea, with the last game coming between these two countries, it really could go either way, but I feel like the fast paced Nigerians will be able to break through the methodical South Koreans.

Prediction:

1. Argentina 3-0-0
2. Nigeria 2-1-0
3. Korea Republic 1-2-0
4. Greece 0-0-3

Group C

For Most Americans this is the most important group. It will include England, Algeria, Slovenia, and the United States. England are the favorites in this group. They dominated qualifying in their European group, and have shown no signs of slowing down in their tune up matches. The only real dark spot is losing Rio Ferdinand who was slated to be Captain after the very public stripping of John Terry as a result of an affair with a teammates former girlfriend. The English people are hoping that the Three Lions can finally hoist their second cup after a forty-four year drought. The English will look to their talented striker Wayne Rooney and level headed, playmaking Captain Steven Gerrard to lead England to this lofty goal. The United States are coming off of one of their most disappointing finishes in the country's limited World Cup history. They were highly overranked going into the tournament (fourth in the world), but will look to bounce back with a bevy of young talent, who up until very recently looked rather disorganized following their runners-up finish at the Confederations Cup one year ago. The come from behind victory against Turkey and convincing win over Australia are showing that the Americans mean business. The only question will be whether the weakened U.S. defense can hold up against their opponents. Algeria have not performed well of late, but had surprisingly strong campaigns in their previous two world cups. This included one of the more controversial exits in World Cup history in which West Germany and Austria cooked up a scheme to allow the two nations to advance on goal difference sending the Algerians packing. As a result of this game, final matches in the group stage have to be played at the same time. The Algerians will more than likely finish fourth, but don't count them out as they beat one of the most decorated African sides, Egypt, to qualify. The Slovenian side will be eerily reminiscent of the Czech Republic from four years ago. They had a stronger qualifying campaign than many anticipated, and beat heavily favored Russia to book their trip. They have not played a strong tune up schedule, but will have the advantage of playing Algeria in their opening match. Look for the first game between England and the U.S.A. to decide the winner of this group, and if England does win, do not count out the Slovenians especially since the English will in all likelihood go into the final match not having much to play for.

Prediction:

1. England 2-0-1
2. U.S.A. 2-1-0
3. Slovenia 1-1-1
4. Algeria 0-0-3

Group D

One of the tougher groups out there, Group D contains Germany, Serbia, Ghana, and Australia. Germany are the heavy hitting favorites out of this group, but they have lost gritty veteran Michael Ballack to injury. Germany's only real test in getting ready for the world cup was against Argentina at home where they lost an 0-1 result. The Germans still have a strong team, but do not expect them to trounce their competition. Ghana was a surprise in 2006 to exit the group of death, but were also considered a dark horse to get out of the group. They held their own beating the Czech Republic and United States after an initial loss to Italy. They are also missing their star in Michael Essein. Ghana has had a lackluster qualifying campaign, enduring a 4-1 thrashing at the hands of the Dutch, and a loss to European playoff losers Bosnia-Herzgovina. They did have a win over Latvia, but losing Essein may prove to be a serious blow. Serbia had a trememndous qualifying campaign beating France for the automatic berth in their group. Qualifying has been somewhat of a rollercoaster for the Serbs, but their last game will provide hope with a win over Cameroon. Australia's Socceroos had a great 2006, losing out to eventual champions Italy, in a controversial match. The Socceroos have a very large team, and a serious attacking threat in the embodiment of Tim Cahill. They put together a very steadfast back, and are very dangerous on set pieces as a result of their size. Germany should come out of this group on top, but it will not be a cake walk. The second spot will go to the hungriest team. It will be interesting to see the very attack minded Serbia and Ghana go against the strong defense of Australia.

Prediction:
1. Germany 2-0-1
2. Australia 2-1-0
3. Serbia 1-1-1
4. Ghana 0-0-3

Group E

This is another one of the more clear cut groups, but more often than not, the groups that seem simple turn in some of the most shocking upsets. Group E includes The Netherlands, Cameroon, Japan, and Denmark. The Netherlands have been one of the best footballing countries in the world, and were it not for their propensity for underachievement in international competition I think many would be saying that the Dutch and Brazilians would be the odds favorites to win the Cup. Wins over The United States, Mexico, Ghana, and Hungary in friendlies have shown that the Dutch are in top form after dominating their group in qualifying, winning every game and conceding only two goals. Cameroon have not won a friendly leading up to the World Cup, but have had some very encouraging and close matches against quality opponents including, but not limited to tying Italy 0-0, a closely contested 3-4 loss to Serbia, and a 1-3 loss to Portugal. Look for Cameroon's high powered, fast paced offense to feed off of the energy of playing on their home continent. The Danes are one of the dark horses of the tournament and are led by the longest tenured coach in the World Cup, Morten Olsen. Although their qualifying campaign has not been what they would have hoped for look for the Danes led by Nicklas Bendtner to pose a threat. Japan have lost most of their qualifying games leading up, and are looking to be the odd man out in this group. The last time they made it out of the group stage was as the co-host eight years ago, losing to Turkey in the round of 16. Look for the Netherlands to move forward with a plethora of talent as they try to shake the ghosts of past iniquities. Cameroon and Denmark will fight for second with Cameroon making it through on their home continent.

Prediction:

1. Netherlands 3-0-0
2. Cameroon 2-1-0
3. Denmark 0-2-1
4. Japan 0-2-1

Group F

This group has defending Champion Italy alongside New Zealand, Slovakia, and Paraguay. Italy could not have asked for a much easier trip back to the knockout stages than this group. Slovakia and Paraguay are both great sides, but neither pose the kind of threat Italy do. Italy are defending their world title with one of the best keepers in the game in Gianluigi Buffon, as well as one of the best defenses in the world. The Azzurri will run through this group with few problems despite a sloppy friendly campaign leading up to the World Cup with a loss on European soil to Mexico and a tie with Switzerland. The Slovaks stunned their qualifying group including their former countrymen the Czech Republic. The Slovaks handily defeated Costa Rica and tied Cameroon in friendlies. The match against Paraguay will in all likelihood determine who moves on with Italy. Paraguay qualified ahead of Argentina in South America finishing third in their group overall (behind Brazil and Chile respectively). Paraguay have beaten Greece and only narrowly defeated North Korea leading up to the World Cup. They drew against Ivory Coast and lost to Ireland. New Zealand were the Oceania group winner now that Australia have moved into the Asia group. New Zealand will in all likelihood finish last in this group, but don't expect them to get pushed around as they have faired well against a number of strong teams including a 1-0 victory over Serbia.

Prediction:

1. Italy 3-0-0
2. Paraguay 1-1-1
3. Slovakia 1-1-1
4. New Zealand 0-0-3

Group G

The group of death; this group includes Brazil, Portugal (two of the top three FIFA ranked teams in the world), Ivory Coast, and Korea DPR. This group includes three teams that many people would say have a realistic shot at challenging for the title, and one of them will not even make it out of the group. It was eight years ago that Portugal didn't get out of their group, but four years ago they lived up to the hype with a fourth place finish. Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the most dynamic players in the world, and has the ability to control the flow of a game. He also gets very emotional when he plays though, and if he takes himself out of the game emotionally it could spell disaster for Portugal. Brazil are the most dominant footballing nation in the world, they have won the most world titles (5), and have three players coming off of a the European Champion Squad. They are the favorites to win the tournament in the eyes of most. Ivory Coast was dealt a really tough blow earlier this week as Didier Drogba went down with a fracture in his arm. He told teammates he would not be able to play, but there is some optimism he may be able to play in some capacity. The cards unfortunately are stacked against them as if they were in any other group they would be able to get through group play and have Drogba join up in the knockout phase. Even if they had Korea DPR in one of the first two games it would be better, but it is their last match. Don't count this team out, but without Drogba they are missing considerable firepower. Korea DPR are a shocker to be in the tournament, but they have performed surprisingly well in their qualifying matches. They have had close losses to Nigeria and Paraguay (3-1 and 1-0 losses respectively). They have also tied hosts South Africa and the reeling Greeks (currently ranked 13th in the world). Conventional Wisdom would have Brazil and Portugal to move on, but the Elephants of Ivory Coast are a great squad, and I think they could put together wins against Portugal and Korea DPR.

Prediction:

1. Brazil 2-0-1
2. Ivory Coast 2-1-0
3. Portugal 1-1-1
4. Korea DPR 0-0-3

Group H

The final group in the World Cup has the reigning Europeans, Spain, with Chile, Honduras, and Switzerland. This is another group that sees a powerhouse country with two (maybe an outside shot at three) teams who will be hotly contesting the second place position. Spain have been as dominant as ever culminating in a 6-0 dismantling of Poland yesterday. They do not have as easy of a trip to the knockout phase of the tournament as Italy do, but it would be a huge upset if they did not at least pass the group stage. Chile finished second in qualifying, just behind heavy favorites Brazil in South America, and are a very dangerous squad. Chile's only real test during the friendly schedule was Mexico, which ended in a 0-1 defeat. They have won every other match during their tune up phase. The Swiss are an enigma they have the ability to be contend against some of the best countries in the world, as shown when they won their group in Germany in 2006 (with France in it) and in their 1-1 draw with Italy, but they also didn't make it out of the group phase when they co-hosted the European Championship two years ago. The Swiss are built on a strong defense and methodical ball movement, as many European squads are. If Switzerland can keep Spain close in match one look for a close match against Chile, but if their first game gets out of hand look for them to fold. Honduras landed their automatic berth when the United States scored a late winner against Costa Rica in qualifying. Honduras have not faired well in matches leading up to the World Cup, but never count a gritty side like theirs out.

Prediction:

1. Spain 2-0-1
2. Switzerland 2-0-1
3. Chile 1-2-0
4. Honduras 0-0-3

Since these are only predictions I will reserve in depth analysis for the knockout phase until after the group stage is complete. I will just write in my predictions for winners.

Mexico vs. Nigeria
Argentina vs. South Africa
England vs. Australia
U.S.A vs. Germany
Netherlands vs. Paraguay
Italy vs. Cameroon
Brazil vs. Switzerland
Spain vs. Ivory Coast

Mexico vs. England
Netherlands vs. Brazil
Argentina vs. U.S.A.
Italy vs. Ivory Coast

England vs. Netherlands
Argentina vs. Ivory Coast

Argentina vs. Netherlands

Winner= Netherlands

Watch Out Red Coats

2010-06-03T15:22:00.001-04:00

Things That Go Well Together Part 6

2010-06-03T00:44:00.003-04:00

Today we bring back our exclusive series called "Things That Go Well Together." Today's pairing is inspired by a relatively new trend, especially in urban areas.

People Toting Dogs In Hand Bags

and

A Firing Squad

Look what you've done, Taylor Lautner

2010-05-26T12:48:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q77sJT8O56E

I admit, I am a cynical person. There are a few things that anger me that probably shouldn't anger most people. HOWEVER, if this doesn't anger you, I don't know what will. I mean, is it funny? Of course it is. 16 year old kids think they're werewolves and wear fake tails! Did you hear the girl say that gangs are just posers?! Their stupidity is hysterical! I was laughing right up until the part where they said the kid cut the head off of his neighbor's dog and carried it around with him. How is that acceptable?!?! That's not a "kids will be kids" kind of thing. Killing small animals is the first sign of a serial killer! And how is that mom like "it takes courage to be this way"? That's not courage! It takes a clear set of issues to be that way! With a little dose of Twilight. God I hate Twilight...

The World Cup: A Guide To The World's Largest Sporting Event

2010-05-25T17:13:00.002-04:00

On June 11th the world will stop what its doing for a month and turn its attention to South Africa as the World Cup kicks off with a match between South Africa and Mexico.
Here at The Common Room, we love the beautiful game. We love everything it represents, especially on the national level. However, we do realize that in the US, it is much harder to follow than baseball, football, or basketball. Since soccer doesn't get much attention from the sports media here in the states, we are here to help you, our loyal readers with a guide to the World Cup. Today we are going to start with a little background on the 32 countries in the tournament.

Group A

South Africa
Fun Fact - Host Nation
Colors - Green and Yellow
Nickname - Bafana Bafana (The Boys)
FIFA Ranking - 90th
Coach - Carlos Alberto Parreira

Mexico
Colors - Red, Green, White, and Black
Nickname - El Tri
FIFA Ranking - 17
Coach - Javier Aguirre

France
Colors - Blue, White, and Red
Nickname - Les Bleus
FIFA Ranking - 10
Coach - Raymond Domenech
1998 World Cup Champions

Uruguay
Colors - Light Blue, Black, and White
Nickname - Charruas (Indigenous People of Uruguay)
FIFA Ranking - 18
Coach - Oscar Tabarez
1930 and 1950 World Cup Champions

Group B

Korea Republic
Colors - Red, Blue, and White
Nickname - Taegeuk Warriors (Taegeuk is the Korean equivalent of Yin and Yang)
FIFA Ranking - 47
Coach - Huh Jung Moo (really.)

Greece
Colors - Blue and White
Nickname - The Pirate Ship
FIFA Ranking - 12
Coach - Otto Rehhagel

Argentina
Colors - Blue and White
Nickname - La Albiceleste (White and Sky Blue)
FIFA Ranking - 7
Coach - Diego Maradona
1978 and 1986 World Cup Champions

Nigeria
Colors - Green and White
Nickname - The Super Eagles
FIFA Ranking - 20
Coach - Lars Lagerback

Group C

England
Colors - Red and White
Nickname - The Three Lions
FIFA Ranking - 8
Coach - Fabio Capello
1966 World Cup Champions

United States
Colors - Red, White, and Blue
Nickname - The Yanks
FIFA Ranking - 14
Coach - Bob Bradley

Slovenia
Colors - Green, Yellow, and White
Nickname - Zmajecki (Dragon)
FIFA Ranking - 23
Coach - Matjaz Kek

Algeria
Colors - Red, White, and Green
Nickname - Les Fennecs (The Desert Foxes)
FIFA Ranking - 31
Coach - Rabah Saadane

Group D

Serbia
Colors - Red, White, and Blue
Nickname - The White Eagles
FIFA Ranking - 16
Coach - Radomir Antic

Ghana
Colors - Red, White, and Yellow
Nickname - The Black Stars
FIFA Ranking - 32
Coach - Milovan Rajevac

Australia
Colors - Green, Yellow, and Blue
Nickname - The Socceroos
FIFA Ranking - 20
Coach - Pim Verbeek

Germany
Colors - White, Black, and Red
Nickname - Die Mannschaft (The Team)
FIFA Ranking - 6
Coach -Joachim Low
1954, 1974, 1990 World Cup Champions

Group E

Netherlands
Colors - Orange, Blue, and White
Nickname - The Oranje
FIFA Ranking - 4
Coach -Bert van Merwijk

Denmark
Colors - Red and White
Nickname - Olsen's Eleven
FIFA Ranking - 35
Coach -Morten Olsen

Japan
Colors - Red, White, and Blue
Nickname - Samurai Blue
FIFA Ranking - 45
Coach -Takeshi Okada

Cameroon
Colors - Yellow, Green, and Red
Nickname - The Indomitable Lions
FIFA Ranking - 19
Coach - Paul Le Guen

Group F

Italy
Colors - Blue and White
Nickname - The Azzurri
FIFA Ranking - 5
Coach - Marcello Lippi
1934, 1938, 1982, 2006 World Cup Champions

Paraguay
Colors - Red, White, and Blue
Nickname - Guaranies (Indigenous People of Paraguay)
FIFA Ranking - 30
Coach - Gerardo Martino

New Zealand
Colors - White and Black
Nickname - The All Whites
FIFA Ranking - 78
Coach - Ricki Herbert

Slovakia
Colors - Blue and White
Nickname - Repre
FIFA Ranking - 38
Coach - Vladimir Weiss

Group G

Brazil
Colors - Blue and Yellow
Nickname - The Samba Kings
FIFA Ranking - 1
Coach -Dunga
1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002 World Cup Champions

Cote d'Ivoire
Colors - Orange, Green, and White
Nickname - The Elephants
FIFA Ranking - 27
Coach -Sven-Goran Eriksson

Portugal
Colors - Red, Green, and White
Nickname - Seleccao de Quinas
FIFA Ranking - 3
Coach - Carlos Queiroz

North Korea
Colors - Red and White
Nickname - Chollina
FIFA Ranking - 106
Coach - Kim Jong-Hun

Group H

Honduras
Colors - Blue and White
Nickname - Los Catrachos
FIFA Ranking - 40
Coach - Reinaldo Rueda

Chile
Colors - Red, White, and Blue
Nickname - La Roja
FIFA Ranking - 15
Coach -Marcello Bielsa

Spain
Colors - Red, Blue, and Gold
Nickname - La Furia Roja
FIFA Ranking - 2
Coach - Vincente del Bosque

Switzerland
Colors - Red and White
Nickname - Schweizer Nati
FIFA Ranking - 21
Coach - Ottmar Hitzfeld

Thus concludes the first part of our World Cup coverage. We leave you with the Official Theme Song for World Cup 2010.

Twas The Night Before The Lost Series Finale

2010-05-23T00:40:00.003-04:00

There is going to be a huge hole to fill in my life at 11:30 PM tomorrow night. More on this in the upcoming week. For now, sit back and enjoy the last few hours we get to spend with Jack, Kate, Hurley, Sawyer, Ben, and everyone else. It has been a wild ride.

Zoinks!

2010-05-19T15:35:00.002-04:00

The London 2012 Olympic Mascots. Maybe its a good thing the world is ending shortly after.

Goosebumps Alert!

2010-05-16T03:34:00.002-04:00

The 90's: A Television Love Affair

2010-05-12T13:19:00.002-04:00

The nineties were a great time to grow up as a child, period. Television became a pseudo babysitter during this time, and almost another member of the family whose sole purpose was to entertain children to the point where they became hypnotized into mindless drones watching their favorite shows. The nineties gave rise to all kinds of tremendous programming, from cartoons to action shows to kids’ game shows there was always something great on television before and after school.

Cartoons during this time really set the bar for future programming for children. Nickelodeon, which was founded as pinwheel in the late 70’s, really garnered major success throughout the 90’s. Shows like Rugrats, Doug, Rocco’s Modern Life, and later on Rocket Power entertained children across the country. These shows were on the Leboff family television on a regular basis. Whether it was mindless bathroom humor like in Rocco’s Modern Life or tales of friendship and hard times as a student on Doug there was something for everyone. Cartoon Network was born in the early nineties as well. This channel originally started to recycle old cartoons such as one of my personal favorites, Scooby Doo, on a 24/7 basis has enjoyed wild success and now has its own original programming as well as a timeslot for the high school/college age crowd with adult swim. Two other shows I will mention in the cartoon category are The Real Ghostbusters and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles originated as a comic that turned into a cartoon series followed by a number of movies whereas Ghostbusters originated as two wildly popular movies that turned into a series in the late 80’s and early 90’s. These two shows along with Scooby Doo (which was actually a product of the 70’s) were my favorite shows of this decade. I would parade around in my backyard catching (hopefully) imaginary ghosts as Dr. Ray Stantz or fight New York City’s evildoers as Leonardo.

This decade also gave rise to a number of great reality game shows for children. Every kid our age dreamed of bringing home a piece of the crag, getting slimed, or getting a pie in the face on one of Nickelodeons tremendous game shows. Marc Summers was a household name hosting both What Would You Do and Family Double Dare. Family Double Dare probably cracked my top three favorite shows in this category. Everyone always sat on the edge of their seat hoping that the families would supersede the double dare into the physical challenge. The other two shows that cracked my top three, in no particular order, were Legends of the Hidden Temple and Guts/Global Guts. Guts itself was great, but when the producers of the show decided to have kids compete for their native countries, the stakes really jumped up a notch. Mike O’Malley and Moira Quirk were really an unbeatable combination. The one last show I will bring up in this category as an honorable mention was Wild ‘N Crazy Kids. The ridiculous activities that these kids got to perform on television were the envy of every kid that watched the show, hosted in part by, my boy, BrOmar Gooding.

Finally, and most importantly, the one kid’s action show I will bring up in this section is Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. This show was so cool that it saved the g at the end of Morphin to put an extra g in ganggster. I honestly don’t think I know one person that didn’t watch this show. Everyone loved tuning in to watch the power rangers kick some butt (I said butt because I wasn’t allowed to say ass in the 90’s) every Saturday morning. Every week they would take on some new monster sent to Earth from outer space by Rita Repulsa. Looking back on this show the only thing more entertaining than the monsters and putty patrollers the team fought was the lack of any politically correct tact in giving the rangers their colors. Walter Jones (a black man) was the black ranger, Thuy Trang (an Asian woman) was the yellow ranger, David Yost was the blue ranger (not too politically incorrect, but he was a dude who got the color blue), Amy Jo Johnson the hot girl was the pink ranger, and Austin St. John (who has native American heritage) was the red ranger. It is safe to say that if Rev. Al Sharpton watched this show he would have turned his pants into the brown ranger. Much the same as Ghostbusters and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, everyone had their favorite ranger in this show that they would pretend to be when playing in the backyard, and would fight who got to save Kimberly (the pink ranger played by the super fine Amy Jo Johnson). This show was everything a kid could ask for before it was bastardized into a thousand new age spinoff shows with new characters.

The ‘90s really were a tremendous decade for television. From cartoons to game shows to Mighty Morphin Power Rangers I will always revel in the incredible programming of this Era. I will always get nostalgic when I see my old proton pack or ninja turtle outfit. Here is a preview of the next topic...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Heoa-AI42bA

Things That Go Well Together Part 5

2010-04-29T12:14:00.002-04:00

Today's Picks

The Zoo

and

Greek Women

There is no better place for overly obnoxious women, then the zoo.

I think this man ROCKS!

2010-04-22T11:41:00.004-04:00

"A man is but the product of his thoughts what he thinks, he becomes."

I simply love this guy. Go Ghandi!

Things That Go Well Together Part Four

2010-04-13T09:40:00.004-04:00

This is inspired by me looking at facebook pictures.

Sluts

AND

Cameras

Things That Go Well Together Part 3

2010-04-12T17:38:00.003-04:00

Today's installment of Things That Go Well Together is inspired by the show I went to last night.

Scene Kids

and

A Guillotine

Things That Go Well Together Part 2

2010-04-09T17:44:00.002-04:00

Today's pair are two completely unrelated, yet wonderfully compatible things. They work well together on several levels, and can make a bad night turn into a good one real quick.

Sixpence None the Richer

AND

Alcohol

Things That Go Well Together Part 1

2010-04-08T20:31:00.004-04:00

Today marks Part 1 of the series "Things That Go Well Together." From now until the forseeable future, I will be posting two things that go well together, and these posts won't be the typical, peanut butter and jelly. These will be things that people may not think of when they think of the great duos in life. Think of it as a sort of advice column.

Today's Couple:

Bugles and Slurpees

Tiger

2010-04-08T17:07:00.002-04:00

For months, those who haven't been living under a rock (and some who have) have been listening to the Tiger Woods scandal unfold. The man shook his stick around for years, chased street trash around the Holiday Inn like he was Chingy, got caught, and has spent the past few months rehabbing/rebuilding/signing up for more private cell phone plans/getting tested/etc. I'm not so much concerned about that part.

What I am concerned about is the general public's attention to today's opening round of the Masters. Tiger chose this stage to start his comeback tour, and people have bought into it hook line and sinker. For weeks, all I've heard from different news reports is that everyone is going to watch in exciting anticipation and see "what Tiger does next." Allow me to save you the suspense: he's going to play golf! If your mind didn't just explode, allow me to continue. Tiger Woods has been playing golf for almost 14 years. And he's been doing it quite well. And when he takes the 1st tee at Augusta National, he's gonna do it again. Why is everyone packing into ESPN Zone wondering what's gonna happen? Are people expecting him to pop Ambien and sleep on the course? Are they waiting for him to take a random patron and bang her out as well? Why do people think something outrageous is going to happen?! The news today went to ESPN Zone and had this exchange with a woman there:

Reporter: "How is it to watch Tiger Woods again?"
Woman: "Really exciting. I can't wait to see what he does next."
Reporter: "Have you ever watched golf?"
Woman: "No. It's kinda boring otherwise."

You've got to be kidding me. As much as I would love for Tiger to pull a Happy Gilmore and toss a beach ball around or sign some breasts before teeing off, it's just not going to happen. This is the same sport that people have been watching (or actively ignoring) for years. AND it's the one sanctuary Tiger has left. Think less about what you think Tiger's feeling and use common sense. It's golf, not the WWE.

In Honor Of Baseball

2010-04-06T18:51:00.000-04:00

Awwww

2010-04-03T14:58:00.000-04:00

The 90's: A Music Love Affair

2010-03-31T15:55:00.003-04:00

There is so much incredible music that came out of the 1990's. From the rise of the Spice Girls, Boy Bands from New Kids on the Block (who were formed in the late 80's, but won their first music award in 1990) to the Backstreet boys, N sync, 98 Degrees and beyond, Good hip hop, to my personal favorite 90's Alternative. Bands such as Spin Doctors, Better than Ezra, Dishwalla, The Goo Goo Dolls, Eve 6, and one of the best bands of the decade; Third Eye Blind. I am yet to meet a teenager from this decade who did not like this band, their music was awesome, and although we may not have understood the menagerie of drug references in Semi-Charmed Life it is still one of my favorite songs of all time.

Pop really saw its rise during this decade with boy bands. They played to the hearts of teenage girls (and sometimes boys) with their lyrics and made you feel like they were only talking to you. The Spice Girls gave you a little more of an in your face up beat type of pop. Girls loved the in your face attitude and guys loved Posh (or Ginger if you're into redheads). This time period also saw the rise of pop artists such as Usher, Mariah Carey, J-Lo, and the blonde pop sisters (Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Jessica Simpson, and Mandy Moore). As popular as this genre was only one "pop" artist stands out in my mind as a good artist from this group, and that is Alanis Morissette. Jagged Little Pill stayed in the top 20 on top 200 billboard hits for over a year. With songs like "Ironic" and "Hand in my Pocket" that everyone could enjoy.

Hip Hop also saw its roots grow in this time and really evolved very quickly. From MC Hammer to The Beastie Boyz to Biggy and Tupac to Jay-Z's humble beginnings Hip Hop really earned its place in the music spotlight on the 90's. The most important Hip Hop artists of this time were definitely Biggy and Tupac. These two stars wrote tremendous music that was only eclipsed by their unfortunate demise due to the East Side West Side gang violence.

One of the most influential and groundbreaking bands of this decade were Nirvana. Nirvana who were formed in the late 80's, but made it big in the 90's with their huge hit "Smells Like Teen Spirit" off of Nevermind, their second album. Their grunge 90's alternative style saved rock music from whatever distortions had popped up during the 80's. Alternative rock from this time period is probably one of my favorite genres, period. Everything about this music continues to enrapture me, even today. As happens with most bands many only had one hit album or song that really caught on, and they disappeared from the limelight after their fifteen minutes (or 3-4 minutes) of fame dissipated. Bands that fit this bill include Semisonic with "Closing Time," Marcy Playground with "Sex and Candy," and The Verve with "Bittersweet Symphony." There are a number of bands from this time period who did bridge the gap from the 90's to the new millenium. Artists such as Blink 182, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Goo Goo Dolls, and Counting Crows continue to make insightful music While their hits from the 90's are still very popular.

After I finish the series of posts on the nineties, I will try and assemble lists of top tens for each category.

Here is a little preview from my next 90's topic:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7c3bQQmwVE

2010-03-29T15:22:00.002-04:00

Before I continue my love affair with the 90's story a friend sent me this article which I thought everyone would enjoy

http://www.montrealgazette.com/travel/Boozy+chimp+sent+rehab+Russia/2616639/story.html

The '90's A love Affair

2010-03-17T15:12:00.005-04:00

With the new decade only a few months old, I am going to take a trip back to my personal favorite decade, the 1990's. When the clock struck midnight on December 31, 1999, it sounded the birth of the new millennium, but it was also the death toll for an incredible decade, the last millennium seriously went out with a bang. Now that I have lived through another full decade, I have to express how much the 1990's meant to me. I am pretty sure that my brother Michael has written about the 90's already, but I would like to affirm how much that decade kicks the crap out of every other decade.

It could have to do with the fact that the 90's were the time of my childhood,the time period that took me from age 4-14, but I loved almost everything about this decade from snap bracelets to the first time I ever really followed the NCAA Tournament. I am going to look at the 90's from a number of different perspectives, from music, to pop culture, to sports, videos games, movies, TV shows, and more. Every few days or at least once a week I will try and add a different topic. For now I will leave you with a tremendous 90's classic from Snap!.

Nomar Retires!

2010-03-10T23:33:00.002-05:00

yeah, yeah, I'm sure none of you New Yorkers care much about this, but Nomar Garciapara... one of my favorite Red Sox retired today, and with who else BUT the Red Sox. =)

Ahhh.. ain't life sweet? I mean obviously he would want to retire with such a dignified and well respected team, who wouldn't?! Nomar signed a one day contract with the sox so that he could retire with the team he loved most. Boston has always said that Nomar is always friendly and appreciative when he sees people around the city. Not cocky or rude... like Beckett (don't get me wrong, love the guy and he wears my number) But Nomar has always been a great kid, plus he's married to soccer legend Mia Hamm. no biggie, just legends all around.

Why is Nomar so great? Well besides the fact that he isn't the cutest puppy in the window (But, real baseball players don't wear makeup like Arod & Jeter) He was a hustler. One thing my dad always taught me in sports was if you want to get noticed, you hustle. And boy did Nomar hustle. He didn't jog to first because he knew he was going to be out, he ran like the wind because that was his job. Yeah I don't know too many statistics with baseball and other sports, but I know my players.. and I loved Nomar.

(By the way... don't try to tell me that I was too young to watch him play on the Sox. I'm 20 years old and I remember him plain as day on the team. Granted I was young, but I would remember that nose anyday.)

tootlelou

Ok Go at it Again!

2010-03-06T18:13:00.001-05:00

Remember the craze over that perfectly timed dance routine on treadmills a few years back? Better yet. Don't remember that slow-mo dance routine recorded in a backyard. The one released by the same band even before the treadmills? Well, they're at it again with their damned crazy video antics.

Hailing from Chi-town USA, the band OK GO may be better known for their well choreographed music videos, than their music itself. Gaining international fame after releasing homemade videos of themselves dancing to their music in the early 2000's, the band became a YouTube sensation receiving millions of hits on their video's in just days. While you might have just begun to think they were long gone, OK GO has just released a new video for their single "This Too Shall Pass." The video that is gaining the mass attention is the Rube Goldberg-esque short made for the song that involves tons of bells, whistles, marbles and dominoes, that seemingly all coincide with the emotions of the song. While single shot film's are one of the bragging points OK GO has claimed, I have since heard rumors that this new video has cuts in it (not at all taking away from this genius music video). If the band does decide they still want to claim their video's are done in one take, they can just use the original idea they filmed for "This Too Shall Pass," which was done in a single shot with over one hundred members of a marching band. You can watch that video here, which is still listed as the official video for the song . The contraption used in the "Rube" version was apparently created by a team of engineers and has become yet another youtube sensation for the midwest band, currently based out of Los Angeles.

While personally I give their music a B- rating, nobody can deny the visual genius of this band and the entertainment they provide with the release of each of the videos.

Here's the video for "This Too Shall Pass"

Tillikum Strikes... again.

2010-02-27T11:32:00.003-05:00

Unfortunately Tillikum the Killer Whale has killer his beloved trainer Dawn Brancheau. Dawn worked with this whale for about 17 years and never really had a problem. Sea World is looking into what could have been the reason why a whale that she has worked with for so long would do such a thing. Apparently, she laid down on her back on a submerged shelf alongside the pool's edge, for whales this is a very vulnerable position and Sea World experts think that her ponytail drifted in the water by Tillikum and he snatched it and dragged her under. The place where Tillikum used to be kept was Sealand in B.C. where he also killed a trainer there. The owner who gave Tillikum to them told them not to let Tillikum be used in any acts. He was to be used for breeding purposes only. Clearly that didn't happen. This whale also killed another man who apparently snuck into the park after hours and jumped into the tank where Tillikum killed him. The owner of SeaWorld stated that they are not going to put this whale into retirement, but are not sure if they are going to let him be in any more acts. After further investigations are made about the death of Dawn they will make some further decisions.

Well, here's my take on this story. Clearly the death of this trainer is horrible and she did nothing wrong. It just should have been stopped before. Once the man from SeaLand sent Tillikum to SeaWorld after he already killed a trainer they should have set up a set of rules when dealing with this particular whale. Tillikum is an animal and all animals are unpredictable. I hope they don't put this whale into retirement or punishment or whatever they are going to call it because this fuckin whale has not a clue what just happened. It's a like a pitbull attack, one minute they can be the sweetest dogs ever and then the next they rip your head off. Well, anyways- RIP Dawn Brancheau.. the whales and us will miss you.

Why Norway Should Be Declared Olympic Champions.

2010-02-25T13:39:00.003-05:00

There have been some nice stories in these Olympics. From the US hockey team's upset of Canada to Bode Miller to Shaun White, American's have had a hell of a time in Vancouver. However, one country has seriously outdone us, as well as every other country in the world. That country is Norway.
Currently Norway is sitting in third place in the medal count with 18 medals. Only Germany and the USA have more medals.

However, Norway's world domination doesn't end with its 18 medals. No, its recent success transcends the Olympic Games.

Team Norway would easily win 4,000 gold medals for how cool their curling team's pants are. They are the definitiond of swag. I'm pretty sure those pants are the piece of clothing I covet the most. However, Norway's coolness doesn't end with a pair of knickers.

Tore Vikingstad is a 34 year old forward who plays for Team Norway. That's right, Tore Vikingstad. Vikingstad is hands down the best last name in history. Also, Tore is a pretty dope first name.

Lastly, Erik the Red is pretty cool.

Best Music Video of All-Time?

2010-02-23T14:42:00.004-05:00

What happens when you put the RZA, Lil' Jon, Joe Jonas, and Jake Gyllenhaal together on a tennis court? This does:

To All Of Our Loved Ones.

2010-02-11T21:53:00.000-05:00

Yo Iran, Chill Out.

2010-02-11T15:40:00.003-05:00

While major anti-government protests were predicted for Thursday to coincide with Iran’s 31st anniversary celebration of the revolution, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad successfully overshadowed dissidents with scare tactics, a large pro-government rally, and a news-making announcement that Iran is now a “nuclear state.” Iranian hardliners went so far to stifle opposition that they attacked dissident leaders, including the wife of Mir-Hossein Mousavi.

Mir-Hossein Mousavi was approaching Azadi Square, where Ahmadinejad gave his speech, when he was surrounded by baton wielding plainclothes militia, and wasn't able to join the people, according to an opposition web site, Kalame.org

His wife, Zahra Rahnavard, who took the unlikely step of campaigning with her husband last year, was allegedly surrounded and beaten with batons on the head and shoulder. But protestors formed a circle around her and escorted her away. She's safe now, according to Kalame.

The only time having a baton in one's hand is if a person is in a marching band, even then, having a baton in your hand is a cry for help. Baton twirling itself is about as asinine as an activity can get. That being said, hitting people with batons is pretty funny. But seriously Iran, simmer down.

The Snow Day

2010-02-10T12:00:00.002-05:00

No one wants to write about the snow days we've been having??! I will take it upon myself to discuss these wonderful occurances that SHU has been giving us lately. The blackout a few weeks ago was very successful cancelling school because of a power outage. We got delayed a week ago from 2 inches of snow that fell to the ground, mostly because southern Connecticut doesn't know how to handle a little snow. Last night, as I read the weather.com forecast and watched the news I realized how inevitable it was that there was another storm coming our way. Snow days in college seem to be more of an uproar than snow days in high school or middle school. As I was walking through the halls yesterday, all I kept hearing about was that there may be a snow day tomorrow! With 2 grueling classes on Wednesday for me, I hoped and prayed all I could that we were not going to have school. Last night, deciding whether or not to write my paper and study for my 2 quizzes, I checked the online forecast about 54 times. I decided against the homework/studying idea and headed over to my friends room to start drinking. The second we hear anything of snow or an electrical mishap- we strap on our beer goggles and get goin'. I did, however, start to get a little nervous when I still did not see any snow around 1 am. I figured the weather men, once again, made a mistake and we were all dooped.

But after I fell asleep and prayed to the gods above- I woke up at 9 and looked outside, LOW AND BEHOLD- snow. I got 2 texts from friends letting me know that classes were cancelled so I didn't feel the need to read my emails and I fell right back asleep. I woke up around 10 am again to snowballs being pelted off the side of my window and knew it was time to get up. See, when you have snowdays in college it takes you back to those mystical, wondrous days back in middle or high school where you would grab your sled and hit the hills. But we are here, drinking our faces off the night before and even some, the day of. Infact, I've already gotten 3 texts asking to drink today and it's 12:11PM. Even so, we aren't even sure if we have tomorrow off yet. So why would we even drink? That would be like drinking on a Sunday, but I guess that's normal for some of you.

Anyways- point is, I'm 20 years old and haven't been more excited about a snow day in a long time. My no homework/studying last night lucked out. But, instead of the sleds and snow gear, we have vodka and more beer.

The Best Ad Campaign of All-Time?

2010-02-08T21:51:00.003-05:00

One reason that so many people love the Super Bowl so much is for the commercials. In fact, a good portion of those who do watch the big game just watch for the advertisements.

Today is Super Bowl Monday. Meaning all the hoopla is over with. However, today I saw one of the best commercials I've ever seen. Since then, I have looked up other commercials from the campaign.

Enjoy.

the Blackout

2010-02-07T11:43:00.002-05:00

There's a certain mystic about living a portion of your life that you will later have no recollection of. Common to most college crazies, the blackout is ever so popular in youthful vitality. Don't get me wrong though, I am not a fan; but it happens (more so than i'd like). Usually I wake up perplexed with an aching headache and a tummy in flux. I then peek around to adjust to my whereabouts, because lets be honest, I was not on this tangible earth the previous night. Thereafter I check for my wallet, phone, keys and card, in that order.

On this particular morning, I found none of the above, even my jacket was not in the goddamn room. I woke up in a drunken haze which must've been a bit loud as it woke up my fellow roomates. At the present moment I am still without my belongings but I am hoping it is in that locked room of that blue house I, rather, someone else was at last night. I guess it's the liquer that does it to me; I only remember those rum and cokes we had in the dorm and nothing else. So now I go and await my future...actually as these words are written my roomate Lucas got a phone call...my jacket (and hopefully my otha shit) is hanging on the outside knob of the blue house.

So tah tah enjoy the big game today, and remember, that you can't remember when your blackout out. The choice is up to you...and the bottle.

NCAA Tournament shakeup?

2010-02-05T14:27:00.003-05:00

My favorite four sports days of the year are the first four days of March Madness. Most people I know love watching the David's of the NCAA Basketball world toppling the Goliaths. Bucknell over Kansas, Hampton over Iowa State, Northwestern State over Iowa; who doesn't love seeing the Cinderella team dance their way into the sweet 16 or elite 8? The Gonzaga squads from the beginning of the this millennium always found a way as a 10 seed or lower to upset ranked teams on their way into the sweet 16, really putting the spotlight on the mid major conferences. This is what I live for in those four days where I do my best not to get out of my pajamas all day, and spend so much time on the couch that it takes a week for my contours to disappear from the couch cushions. March Madness on Demand has become my best friend so I am no longer at the mercy of whoever is at the controls at CBS.

So with Selection Sunday a little over a month away I found a very interesting article that will tickle the fancy of every March Madness fanatic such as myself who loves the upset. This article is claiming that an expansion of the field from 65 teams to 96 teams is a "done deal." This is great news for me because it will include an extra 31 teams, at least one extra day of madness, and much more potential for crazy upsets. Some people might think this expansion as overkill, but personally I love the idea. I am attaching the link for the article, and feel free to leave your own views on the potential expansion, I would definitely like to hear what everyone else thinks about the possible expansion.

http://ow.ly/12Ijc

I'm Gonna Miss It.

2010-02-02T01:52:00.003-05:00

Life moves quick. I can't believe this will end up being the last season of Lost. A show that has been a part of my life since its premiere during my freshman year of high school (2004), is coming to an end. It is one of the last things that remain from my high school years. Its a wake up call, to me at least, of how fast life moves.

Should be one fucking awesome season though.

The Unsung Heroes of Transit System

2010-01-28T16:20:00.020-05:00

Everyday, I take the New York City subway to work. It’s also not a secret that the New York City subway system is littered with street performers. Many of the performers are commissioned by the Music Under New York program that’s set up by the MTA. Some are commissioned by local churches to preach about the horrors that await you on judgment day. However, there are still plenty of performers who do it for the thrill. Sure they throw a hat in front of them and ask you to “donate,” but what’s a few cents to hear a seemingly poor person crank out some tunes on an electric guitar and amp accompanied by a beat on an iPod? And let’s not forget the group of individuals who enter a subway car with a bongo, start dancing, and are finished with enough time to not only impress you with their skill but ask for donations to their “youth group” before exiting the subway a station later. At times I’m impressed by the skill of some of these performers, and sometimes I’m appaled by it. However, there are three along my particular route that I feel deserve special mention. For (mostly) good and bad reason.

#3. The Boar

Is this his name? Probably not, but I gave it to him because he resembles…yup, you guessed it…a boar. I know; it’s terrible and offensive, but I’m gonna roll with it. He also rocks a pony tail similar to Randolph from Free Willy. Anyways, The Boar plays for the idealogical reason that I’ve come up with in my head: the thrill. He has no sign or plea, but sets up shop along a construction site and starts blasting the same 2 chords on an acoustic guitar that has many holes in it. In fact, I would not be surprised if this was a “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” kind of situation. So The Boar blasts a C chord followed by an G chord repeatedly. What’s better is that he tries to pull off making it seem like he’s performing "Master Exploder" So by now you may be asking “well what song is he playing? Is it an original piece?” And the answer to that is: I have no idea. I’m assuming it is because after listening to this gentlemen for months now, I am yet to understand a single lyric. I have come to the conclusion that he is not singing any words, but rather sounds like the result of someone plugging their nose, sticking out their tongue, and saying “ahhhhh.” I do want the best for him, and I hope he one DAY finds the words to SAY what he MAY be feeling inside. That should be his bridge.

#2 Luke Ryan

Luke is a guitarist that is commissioned in the MUNY program. He usually performs underneath Grand Central Terminal by the S train, and has more of a Southern twang sound. Unlike The Boar, however, Luke is actually not too bad. He breaks out a few smooth solos and accompanies them with some warm riffage. He also has CD’s available for purchase (I have not bought one…yet). What makes him so unique though is his character. For one, he looks like a combination of Rocco from The Boondock Saints with a biker vest and Mick Foley. Next, he has a sign with him at all times that reads “Too Weird To Live, Too Mean To Die.” I don’t know about you, but a guy that carries a (almost) Hunter S. Thompson quote with him must be, at the very least, intriguing. Not to mention the names of his songs being things like “Weasel Slapper.” Lastly, in between songs, Luke talks to the crowd with the same personality as the guy running the water shooting game at a carnival. I’m not talking about the dunking booth guy that purposely gets you pissed off so you spend more money. I’m talking about the water shooting guy that delivers compliments in a creepy voice and makes you wonder what exactly his intentions are (i.e. at a couple: “hey guy, c’mon and win a prize for your girlfriend. She’s got a backside that deserves one.”). When Luke talks to the crowd, especially to women who are appalled by him, it’s nothing short of hilarious. If you see him, he may offer you the opportunity to guess his weight for a nickel or partake in a conga line. Rock on, Luke.

# 1 The Apparition

I have seen him twice, maybe three times, but once I wanted to hear his music again and try to pin down what he sounds like, he was gone. TA (as he will be known for now) is the best musician I’ve heard in the subway system…ever. From what I remember of him, he wielded an acoustic guitar and had a very depressed tone in his music. Think Johnny Cash's version of "Hurt” with a voice between Mr. Cash and Sufjan Stevens. What makes his tale even better his that he would ONLY play music when facing a column! When turned around and facing people, he would simply stand there, but after a quick break he would turn back around, face steel, and break out into melody. As I said, I’ve only had the pleasure two or three times before he pulled a Keyser Soze and vanished. Believe me, if he comes back, I’ll be excited.

Where did you go???

This Man Is An AFC Champion

2010-01-24T22:51:00.001-05:00

Entering the Ring standing at 6 feet zero inches and weighing in at 190 lbs, Jose Offerman

2010-01-18T01:47:00.001-05:00

Is it just me or does this whole Jose Offerman umpire attack remind you of some cheap scripted WWE bit? It almost seems as if Jose Offerman is the guest host of Monday Night Raw and throws a terrible scripted punch at Mr. Umpire (wait that’s a terrible wrestling name, how about the Abominable Vagina after the way he dropped to the floor as a result of that half hearted punch). Mr. Umpire, being a professional wrestler and all, has to follow the script despite the weak blow and falls to the mat (or in WWE terms, he is knocked out cold and his career seems in jeopardy, only later on in the show he and his crew of umpires interfere with a match and get revenge on Offerman, setting up the plot line for next month's pay-per-view event!!!!!!!). I think the WWE should definately look into bringing Mr. Offerman aboard. After all, we are talking about the guy who once attacked the opposing team's pitcher with a bat. Mr. McMahon, please get on this for our sake as viewers and for Jose's sake, for I don't think he will be having a job much longer.

P. S. Yes, I did just make a post about Wrestling. The fourth grade version of me is Ecstatic right now!

The Jersey Shore- Your Guilty Pleasure

2010-01-17T22:58:00.000-05:00

I'm back. Haven't blogged in a while, vacation suddenly started to get busy. I figured I would take some time out of my day and write, because I miss it. Being the only girl blogger on this site I figured I would discuss a topic a little girlier than most topics that the boys blog about. Although I am a hockey fan, having played for about 10 years, I still don't know much about teams and drafts (GO BRUINS!). I love movies too, but we all know Mike has got us covered with movie facts. BUT I do know a lot about television. (NOT all that late night junk because my bedtime is far earlier) I really like reality shows. Don't judge me for my trashy taste in television, I'm not who I seem. I love shit TV. Real Housewives of Orange County (and all the others), Real World, all those dating shows- I Love _____ whoever, Keeping Up With The Kardashians, IDK anything reality. The funny thing is- I hate all of those people. ALL of them. And if you knew me well you would know that I am not like a single housewife or guidette. But there is something about watching a fabulous life of a filthy rich woman who I learn to despise or a overly tanned, blowout sporting, steroidal guido who lives off of jager. I want to introduce to you a show which all of you have heard about, some of you watch, and few of you plan out your Thursdays so that you are home in time to watch it- the Jersey Shore. This show has grown on me. From day one I was mesmerized watching these tools and I want to show you why.

1. Nicole or Snooki
You all know her. Don't ever tell me you haven't watched this show because you have and you LOVE it. Snooki is actually friends with my friend from SHU which is awesome. When I first watched the show with her I hated Snooki (like I hated everyone else) but she was sloppy, WAY too tan, and she had witch hair down to her ass. Snooki’s goal is to “Move to the Jersey Shore nice, juiced, hot, tan guy”. Anyway after the first episode she started to grow on me. She fell down those stairs that lead up to the roof like I don't even know how many times and she can dance like an animal. One thing about her though is that she continuously cannot seem to find a guy to fuck. ALL she wants to do is fuck and she's had her chances... it's just never happened. Poor snooks, or snickers (whatever the rest of the cast calls her) Snooks got rocked in the face by a huge fraternity jock and then continued to somehow get herself into catfights. Also, last episode a roommate told her she didn't need to have another roll at dinner because she already had enough. Snooki has gotten quite a beating throughout this show, will someone just please fuck her already?

2. Ronnie.
There's not much to Ronnie except for his perfect body. I do not understand how these guidos can be the ugliest yet the hottest all at the same time. Whatever. Ronnie's #1 rule before he came on the show was to "not fall in love down the Jersey Shore", yeah that worked out well for you buddy. You were gun hoe Sammi the fuckin first week you were there. Pussy. He's gotten into I don't even know how many fights and recently got arrested for knocking some guy out then running down the street screaming- "That's one shot! That's one shot!" Of course he gave the cops the self defense excuse but I mean comon you fuckin BOLTED after that guy. Gimme a break. All guidos should be exiled.

3. Sammi.
Sammi "Sweetheart". Really? RIIIIGHT. I know you're not as bad as "J WOWW", but you are a HUGE bitch. How can someone run around telling everyone "I'm the sweetest bitch you'll eva meet" when you say- "This little shrimp thing is like bopping all around, on the circle and like doing her thing, doing backwards flips with her thong hanging out; her whole crotch is in the air." (talking about poor little Snooks dancing) aww, that's really sweet, Sammi Sweetheart. God, these fuckin kids need an etiquette class. Like really? Half of them aren't even kids anymore they're like 27-29 grow up already! Anyways, before Ronnie,"her number one mission is to go out, find the hottest guido and take him home" Such goals. Your parents must be proud! By the way SAMMI, I lovedddd watching Ronnie toss you on the boardwalk. Bitch.

4. Mike. "The Situation".
We all hate Mike. Everyone who watches hates Mike. His self-proclaimed name "The Situation" is disturbing. What is "The Situation" you ask? Well, his "abs are so ripped up, we call it the situation". YUP. That’s how it started then it went from abs to everything being the situation. He even refers to himself in the third person as The Situation saying that "The Situation sits at the head of the table". I am just so astounded as to how he actually GETS girls. These girls must be really stupid. I mean his daily activities everyday are gym, tanning, laundry. WHICH might I add, have come to be an acronym- GTL. "GTL baby all day". Such high goals these guys have. Besides talking a big game about fighting and such, he is the root of all problems and has yet to hit one person. They have shown him actually walking away from a fight. God, the situation. WHAT SITUATION! There’s nothing there, you 27 buddy, it’s time to grow up. I don't know.

5. Jenni or J WOWW.
J WOWW. This girl has to be the trashiest looking one on the show. She has blonde and black hair and wears the oddest sorts of outfits with the fakest of boobs. One of my favorite lines out of her mouth was- “After I have sex with a guy I will rip his head off” Well then J WOWW, I’m sure every guy in America wants you now! After cheating on her boyfriend with 29 year old DJ Pauly D, who yes, showed her his penis piercing, she decided to tell her boyfriend about what she had done and then continued to act just as slutty as before. Exhibit A of her trashiness was PUNCHING “The Situation” in the face after he didn’t walk her back to the hotel room in AC . The club ended up being in THE SAME HOTEL. Give “The Situation” a break, “The Situation” just wanted to get some sweet transvestite ass before “The Situation” ‘s night was over. But whatever, fights make good TV so I’m not complaining. She also beats bitches up so I guess she’s pretty cool in my book.

6. Pauly D. or DJ Pauly D.
Pauly is the only house member from the beautiful state of Rhode Island. He is actually a well known DJ in that state, but probably only because it is so small. He did ACTUALLY say that “Guidettes cream in their pants when they hear my music”. Your music? It’s not even your music Pauly! You’re a DJ who mixes other people’s music. EW. Anyways Pauly has a GIGANTIC tattoo down his side that says Cadillac and a huge crest with Italian flag colors on his back, plus many more. His kids will be so happy when they are grown up and looking at daddy with his Cadillac tattoos. Pauly is the FULL BLOWN guido of the house by far. He packed an entire suitcase full of hair gel and accompanies Mike on his GTL trips. Pauly actually has a stalker who’s this Israeli chick that is obsessed with him after hanging with him once. She even got him a shirt that said I Love Jewish Girls and gave it to him when he was with a group of different girls on the boardwalk! HAHA I live for this shit, it’s classic and seriously hilarious. Pauly has a tanning bed in his house at home and is just living the dream down the Jersey Shore. GOD. These people are pathetic.

7. Vinny.
I love Vinny. Vinny is adorable and your typical Italian mama’s boy. He’s a gentleman never getting into fights with anyone, but seems to sometimes get picked on by Mike. His eyebrows are perfect and he enjoys a good fist pump now and then. Because Vinny doesn’t get into too many problems on the show we don’t see too much of him EXCEPT when put his face in a woman’s fat ass and ended up getting pink eye from it. Ahhh there’s nothing better than some pink eye.

8. Angelina.
Yea. I saved her for last because she sucks. The girl left the show because of no reason, but just because she wanted too. WHY’D YOU EVEN COME THEN YOU STUPID SLUT! I WOULDA WENT! Stupid. Anyways, she considers herself to be “the Kim Kardashian of Staten Island, baby.” Cute, really cute. She continues to tell Mike- “Look at me! Look at me!” when she tries to convince him she is ALL natural. Hit the gym, chunky. Yeah you are all natural we can see it! Now put it away! Gross. HAHA I almost forgot- she told the cast to call her Jolie because normally people call her Jolie, well ya know because her and Angelina share the same name. YEAH! Along with all the other Angelina’s out there! Do you ACTUALLY THINK YOU ARE ANYTHING LIKE ANGELINA JOLIE? Fucking loser. Anyways, Angelina left the show to be with her boyfriend who didn’t really seem to care much about her to begin with- you can now see why.

WELL- if your brain isn’t bleeding by now then I hope that picture at least put the icing on the cake for you. This blog isn’t condoning any of their behavior as normal, but just to put it bluntly- it’s hilarious. I don’t think I have laughed this much during a TV show in a long time. It’s funny because they are serious, DEAD serious. Well, if you haven’t watched this show by now, you at least have to watch the finale- Thursday night at 10 on what else but MTV or (trashTV). :)

Exclusive Interview With Carson Daly.

2010-01-17T15:32:00.000-05:00

While the rest of the entertainment world is focusing on Jay Leno and Conan O'Brien, The Common Room decided to take time and sit down with the man forgotten in the shuffle, Carson Daly.

The former host of MTV's Total Request Live has been hosting Last Call With Carson Daly since 2002. When it was announced that Conan was going to move from Late Night to take over The Tonight Show, Carson Daly made it publicly known he was interested in taking over Late Night. Instead, he was passed over for Jimmy Fallon.

With all the changes coming to the Late Night lineup, the only thing that seems definite is that Carson will lose his show when the dust settles. With that in mind, we sat down with Carson to discuss the recent events.

TCR: How are you Carson?

CD: Well, I've been better, to be honest.

TCR: I can imagine. With all the hype surrounding Conan and Jay, how do you keep doing your job without getting distracted?

CD: Well, to be honest with you, it cuts me real deep. I've been in this family since 2002, and it is now 2010. I have given my all to this network and now they treat me like I am still a nobody.

TCR: Let me stop you right there.

CD: Why?

TCR: Because nobody cares.

We'd like to thank Carson Daly for stopping by The Common Room.

Kimmel: Alot, Leno: 0

2010-01-15T13:00:00.001-05:00

I've never really thought one way or the other about Kimmel (other than his phenomenal work on The Man Show and Win Ben Stein's Money). I always assumed he was funny seeing as that his show survives (which I guess is a testament to his writers as well). But this video sealed it for me. To go on Leno's show and continuously bitchslap him everytime Leno opened his mouth takes balls. Well done, Jimmy.

2010-01-15T02:24:00.000-05:00

You Don't Know Me and I intent to change that.

Why NBC Sucks.

2010-01-14T18:52:00.001-05:00

How can you get rid of something like that?

Godspeed, Conan.

Liveblog from PSC 142: Western Political Theory from Plato to Hobbes

2010-01-13T13:53:00.000-05:00

So I just finished my last class in my collegiate career this past December, and I figured I would liveblog from my last class ever.

6:30 Class starts.

6:34 I arrive four minutes late...right on time.

6:37 4 people have arrived after me, this is unacceptable, I am almost always the last person to class, except for weird glasses girl, who consistently shows up at 7 for a 6:30 class.

6:39 Professor is talking about sororities.

6:40 We are hearing about her innumerable traffic violations for the umpteenth time, but she is one of the best drivers in Great Neck (self-proclaimed, I am waiting on verification)

6:44 75% of our class is in attendance, about 40% above the norm.

6:45 She is telling us the exact same story from last week, word for word, impressive.

6:50 The kid in my class who is the poster child for nerds everywhere just left, and I want to knock his books off of his desk.

6:52 I refrain

6:55 Nerd boy returns, he was probably reorganizing his pens in his backpack

6:56 8 people have now entered after me, this is probably because we have our term paper due today, weird glasses girl is still a no show.

7:00 7 people are on their laptops, excluding myself. 5 on facebook (one on Farmville) 1 playing poker and one actually taking notes. 3 people sleeping, 2 side conversations, and 2 gingers here, I think they are twins, gingers scare me.

7:06 A girl with a voice deeper than mine just said she thinks about indigestion when she eats. I don’t know how many more ways she could turn a person off.

7:09 When did we decide that raising hands to answer questions in college was a bad idea?

7:10 We just started the fourth and final book in our syllabus with 45 minutes left in our last class, no joke

7:17 We are now on Ch. 6 of Hobbes Leviathan. Just over a chapter a minute thus far, maybe we will get out early

7:18 Side story (Americas smartest shopper), we’re not getting out early

7:19 Smarty Pants Metro Mcgoo just stolled in as the 9^th person A.D. (After David)

7:22 We have commenced talking about the different types of zombies

7:25 the second person just left early, I want to leave, but then this blog would be incomplete

7:26 We are on chapter 13, I think I missed something while I was watching my neighbor post on Cindy’s wall. I can’t wait til finals are over either neighbor

7:31 24 minutes left in my last class at Hofstra University (hopefully)

7:33 One of the gingers left for the bathroom, a few moments of peace, it is ironic that she left just as Professor Feldman mentioned Salem witches.

7:36 Ginger girl is back, she looks unhappy, that makes me happy

7:43 the entire row against the wall is asleep

7:46 Single digits left in my final class at this place

7:47 Professor is looking for a quote that took her an hour to find the other night, I am not a particularly organized person, but wouldn’t it make sense to maybe mark the spot?

7:50 The window to this class is always open, but the temperature remains around a cool 90 degrees, I think this may be a portal to hell.

7:51 my last class here is dismissed.

David Backes: American Hero

2010-01-13T02:59:00.002-05:00

David Backes is an American professional hockey player currently playing for the St. Louis Blues. On New Years, David had the privilege to be named to the USA Olympic Hockey Team.

Since then, he has shown what it means to be a true American hero.

The night after he was named to the Olympic Roster, Backes and the Blues took on the Chicago Blackhawks. During that game, David fought Canadian Olympian Jonathan Toews.

A mere five nights later, David and the Blues travelled to Anaheim to take on the Ducks. When he looked up and down the roster, he had a myriad of Olympians to beat down. Backes chose sniper Corey Perry, another Canadian, and beat him down.

If you think Backes was finished there, you are terribly wrong. Another five nights had passed and David Backes was thirsting for Canadian blood. When the Columbus Blue Jackets strolled into St. Louis earlier tonight, Backes knew what he had to do. Take out Canadian superstar Rick Nash. Needless to say, an American Hero like David Backes does not ever not accomplish his mission.

America is going through a tough time right now, nobody can doubt that. However, with heroes like David Backes on our side, we will be fine.

Thank you, David.

Harrison Ford: Working Around The Clock.

2010-01-12T00:22:00.001-05:00

2010-01-11T15:19:00.004-05:00

So I have been absent from the blog for a while, and for that I apologize, but I was perusing the world wide web yesterday and came across this gem of a video. See if you can find anything racist about this Australian KFC commercial.

5 Reasons I Love Hockey

2010-01-10T15:54:00.000-05:00

My favorite sports blog in the universe is Puck Daddy. It is a hockey blog written by Greg Wyshynski on Yahoo! Sports. Every week he asks someone to give 5 reasons they love hockey. Out of respect for Greg and his work, here are the five reasons I love hockey.

1. Nassau Coliseum

Say what you want about the old barn. The one concourse (yes Nassau Veteran's Memorial Coliseum has only one concourse), the fact that it is in need of repair ASAP, or the fact that it could be the ugliest looking arena in sports history from the outside, but I dare you to find a place with better sight lines in every seat. The upper bowl at the coliseum is not really an upper bowl, but more like an extended lower bowl. From every seat, you can see everything. Also, when the coliseum sells out for a big game, or for the play-offs there is not a better barn in hockey. It is built like one of the old school arenas from the eighties, it is small and noise does not escape into a maze of concourses, or shopping centers, or anything. The place legitimately shakes when it gets loud.

2. Hockey Holidays

a.k.a the draft, the frenzy, and the deadline

Since I was in 8th grade, I've played hooky every trade deadline day . Because for some reason, Steve Montador for Petteri Nokelainen sounds so exciting coming out of Darren Dreger's mouth. Or maybe because its when you know if your team is going to exhaust all options to make it to the post-season. Or maybe its because you love Ryan Smyth and when the Islanders traded for him on February 27, 2007. You ran downstairs from your room screaming "Captain Canada is coming! Captain Canada is coming!" much like a certain Revolutionary did back in the late 1700's.

The NHL draft is the perfect thing to get back in the hockey spirit after the cup champion is anointed. The draft has a little bit of everything, jockeying, trades, and teenage boys being courted by middle-aged men. The draft is where the teams that finished at the bottom have something to cheer about for the first time in months. It is where each GM has his own plan, and it usually is don't let Brian Burke manipulate you.

Then there is July 1. That is also the date of my parent's anniversary, so when they go out to celebrate their anniversary, I stay in, glued to my computer, waiting to see who's going where. On July 1, 2007, the man who brought me to tears a few months earlier, brought me to tears again, this time they were tears of sadness. On that day, I saw Tom Poti, Viktor Kozlov, Jason Blake, and Ryan Smyth all leave the Island. Who were they replaced by? Jon Sim, Bill Guerin, Ruslan Fedotenko, and Mike Comrie. Presently, only Sim is still an Islander. Thats the kind of day July 1st is. It is filled with excitement and movement, but you really won't know if its a good day or a bad day for a long time.

3. Goalie Masks

No other position player in sports has more artistic freedom in sports than NHL goaltenders. In today's age, NFL players are fined for wearing their socks too low. In our beautiful league, we have 60 goalies with 60 very different masks. I love seeing what new designs goalies have when they switch teams. There is something about Patrick Lalime’s Marvin the Martian, Johan Hedberg’s Moose, and of course Ed Belfour’s Eagle that tickle my fancy in a big way.

4. The Brotherhood

No other sport in the world is as quirky as hockey. With that being the case, talking hockey is one of my favorite activities in the world. No matter who it is, if two people who are die-hard fans spot each other a conversation will immediately follow. Hockey fans are not as easy to come by as baseball or football fans, and while those two sports certainly dominate the airwaves there is nothing like a solid, intelligent hockey conversation. Since ESPN has yet to tarnish hockey with asinine statistics, it is usually pure, passionate, and intelligent.

5. Stick Tapping

No other sound can give me goose bumps like the sound of a bunch of sticks tapping against the boards. Playing goalie in a men’s league with a bunch of my friends during my senior year of high school may be the time of my life. We finished we a 2-8 record but we upset the defending champs in front of a raucous crowd one night in January. After I made a flurry of saves, the only sound I could hear was the sound of about 13 sticks hitting against the boards. Little moments like that, make hockey.

Trunk Monkey

2010-01-01T19:28:00.001-05:00

I'm investing in one of these! They are going to be the future of car protection. I've uploaded the chaperone edition, but there are many editions of the trunk monkey (mostly security) anyways, I leave you with one clip. Go trunk monkey, GO!

carry on...

a Rebuttle to: a Snacktacular Snack

2009-12-31T02:10:00.004-05:00

Michael, my dear blogger, I know I haven't stood up to my blogging ability like we all should, but I thought this blog would help my effort. My mind is racing all over as should every 19-20 somethings should,, this is a weird time!! but anyway life should be good (hopefullY) for everyone theres a lot of good people out there. i'm temporarily held up on these bose headphones they've turned me into a glowing toneeee (haha i totally rhyme)/

shit. i must hold up. i started this blog entry to discuss a specific thing. yes this cheez it snack. its got everyone wack. yes another rhyme. my apologizes. but let me me indulge. Michael, you said this snack was versatile. how so? when you think about a cheez it snack it grabs you by the bite. the sharp cheese bite. countless others and myself continually report whilst sober or more often than not non sober the idea that this cheese snack attacks you. the cheez-it absorbs. it enslaves and takes total control; once engulfed the psyche thinks they have reached the perfect part time snacky snack, but WRONG!!! indeed i have researched and does. i'm not gonna give you a bogus number but i can tell you from a prior suburban standpoint and a college standpoint that the cheez-it enslaves!!! i think i have gotten my point across and myself but thats beyond myself for reals i,m glad i extended myself to this cyber world its not to often that one (me) gets streched out. sorry, bros, some old school moon and antarctica modest mouse is coming thru and i hafta roll thru hope ya'll have had a good night despite this ridiculous height (another rhyme!!!) .

think about it. you love the cheez-it. you adore it. the best thing you've ever tasted. but then again you think about it. you weren't thinking of a cheez it previously to defeat your hunger. you would never have thought about it.finally hits you: THEY DON'T TASTE GOOD BUT I JUST WANT TO EAT MORE!!

yes mike, your right, there versatile. the way they mix up there intentions makes me mention: check your teeth aft

Oscar Power Rankings

2009-12-28T23:42:00.001-05:00

Every Week or So, I am going to give my Best Picture Power Rankings. They will be based on buzz, reviews from several outlets, and my own reviews where applicable. Here are my Power Rankings as of 12/28/2009:

(NOTE: These are not my picks for the best movie of the year, just what I think the Academy will pick.)

1. Up In The Air
2. Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
3. Avatar
4. An Education
5. The Hurt Locker
6. Up
7. A Serious Man
8. Inglorious Basterds
9. Invictus
10. Nine

Outside Looking In: 500 Days of Summer, A Single Man, District 9, The Road, Public Enemies, The Informant!, Where the Wild Things Are.

Ironic? I think so.

2009-12-24T11:53:00.000-05:00

Brittany Murphy's death was very tragic. While appearing in many films, most of which were quite popular, she mostly played a cute, fun girl who could sometimes be a little clueless (ha, get it?) Anyways, I was shocked to find out that Brittany Murphy died in her bathroom at the age of 32. Nothing has really be proven that she died of natural causes, but most doctors think she did. I don't know about you, but I loved this actress. She was great in a lot of my favorite movies and I find it very sad that she has passed. What is so ironic to me is that Brittany Murphy was supposed to be playing in the movie "Deadline". Well, she is playing in the movie because it is going to show, but a certain poster company called Redbox was supposed to release posters of the former actress lying lifeless in a bathtub. (Brittany died in her shower, in real life). The company Redbox is trying their best to take back all of the posters that were sent out all over in about 19,000 locations. Right around the new year is when mostly all of the posters will be removed from the locations, but as of now some are out there. It is very unfortunate, the death of Brittany, and I'm sure Murphy's family doesn't need any more reminders of it. Although her death is tragic, the people in charge of the new movie Deadline, are still going to show it. They feel like what would be a better tribute to Murphy than to air a movie, which is supposed to be one of her best. I for one, completely agree.

Anyways, on a lighter note, Merry Christmas!

Welcome to Long Island

2009-12-21T01:06:00.003-05:00

I am home from school and back on Long Island. To show my LI Pride, I dug up this gem. I sure hope this becomes the official state song when Long Island becomes a state.

The Tonight Show With Jerry Seinfeld?

2009-12-17T18:30:00.002-05:00

There have been rumors circulating around Hollywood that Conan O'Brien's disappointing transition into the 'Tonight Show' may lead to him losing his job as host of the late night talk show. According to Popeater.com, NBC reports a 52% loss in viewership in just one year. All parties are still denying the rumors, but Seinfeld has a great relationship with NBC and would definitely boost ratings.

Conan does have a few things that may help him out in the long run. The first being that David Letterman has seen a boost in ratings over the past year because of the Sarah Palin fiasco, as well as the blackmail controversy. The second being that Conan has only been on since June and he could still be figuring his new audience out. Another thing that may help Conan's case is that Conan got off to a very slow start as host of "Late Night" so he could just be a slow starter. He could also argue that giving Jay Leno a show at 10 PM is a ratings killer for him, by giving Leno a show, NBC shot itself in the foot a little bit because all of Leno's old viewers can just tune in a little earlier and don't need to stay up for their late night fix.

It will be very interesting to see how this plays out.

Top 12 Movies of the Decade

2009-12-13T16:14:00.000-05:00

It is that time of the decade, the time for more lists than Santa gets. Without further ado, here comes my take on this decade's top 10 movies.

12. Team America World Police (2004)- A movie with horribly made puppets should never crack a list like this right? Wrong. Trey Parker and Matt Stone deliver one of the funniest movies of the decade with this satire on America and the rest of the world. When a movie has a song like, America, Fuck Yeah! you know the movie is going to be good.

11. There Will Be Blood (2007)- Daniel Day-Lewis turns in what could have been the best performance of his career in P.T. Anderson's adaptation of Upton Sinclair's novel "Oil." Paul Dano also does a great job in the film. "I drink your milkshake!"

10. Gran Torino (2008)- It had some awkward moments, it had some funny moments, and it certainly had some touching moments. Clint Eastwood turns in a great performance and delivered as a director in this movie. The movie captured the plight immigrants in America even today. It also tackles the problem of getting old, one Eastwood knows personally now, and does a great job making the audience sympathize with Eastwood's character even when he is using every racial slur known to man.

9. Once (2007)- Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova star in this low-key, low-budget musically inspired film. The movie was so low key that the two main character's names were Guy and Girl. The movie, shot in Ireland for pretty much nothing, turned into one of the cinderella stories in Hollywood this decade. The movie won an Oscar for Best Original Song and gained the two musicians uncharted popularity.

8. Ratatouille (2007)- Pixar is a machine. Everything they pump out is usually critically acclaimed, publicly admired, and pretty much worshipped. Ratatouille was just that and then some. A great movie for kids, adults, and rodents alike it was well made, well written, and visually stunning. If the Oscars were open to 10 Best Picture Nominations in 2007, Ratatouille would have been nominated for sure.

7. The Dark Knight (2008)-Chris Nolan's second Batman movie was one of the best movies of the decade for several reasons. First and foremost, the job turned in by a star studded cast. From Ledger to Caine to Oldman to Freeman, it was one of the best acted movies of the decade. Next, the effects, from the sound to the visuals were nearly perfect. The movie was given great reviews and the public obviously loved it, landing it on our list.

6. The Visitor (2008)- This indie film is one of the best movies that nobody has heard of. Richard Jenkins turned in the best performance of his career and the rest of the movie followed suit by being awesome. Focused around the Illegal Immigration debate, the movie didn't let politics get in its way of being one of the best movies of the decade.

5. No Country For Old Men (2007)- The Coen Brothers are amazing. Anything they touch seems to turn into Oscar gold. Their adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's "No Country for Old Men" was no different. The movie moved so slow, which added to the suspense and its lack of a score or really any music at all, made it uncomfortable to watch alone. The scene in the gas station with the coin flip is one of the most haunting scenes I have ever seen. The movie was so well acted I am now afraid of Javier Bardem. Josh Brolin, Woody Harrelson, and Tommy Lee Jones also turned in impressive performances.

4. The Lord of The Rings Trilogy (2001-2003)- Peter Jackson left no stone unturned in his adaptation of J.R.R Tolkien's masterpiece. His use of extras, CGI, and other visual effects led these movies to Oscar domination in the early millennium. Viggo Mortensen was brilliant throughout the trilogy.

3. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)- Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet star in one of the most creative love stories ever told. The tagline, "I already forget how I used to feel about you," is one of the best taglines I've ever read. The movie touches nearly every emotion and Charlie Kaufman's screenplay is superb.

2. Gangs of New York (2002)- When you put Martin Scorsese and Daniel Day-Lewis together it becomes unfair. Throw in a little DiCaprio here and some Cameron Diaz there and you have yourself the second best movie of the decade. During the Civil War, the country was in utter turmoil. This movie really gave you the sense of how hard it was during the time. The sets, the effects, and the writing were all incredible. All the actors did a great job, and obviously Scorsese came through.

1. The Departed (2006)- Martin Scorsese can make a movie with ants. With Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Wahlberg, Jack Nicholson, Martin Sheen, and Matt Damon (not to mention the always breathtaking Anthony Anderson) Martin Scorsese can make a timeless classic, which is exactly what he did with The Departed.

Comments welcome.

just to put the cherry on top

2009-12-13T14:33:00.000-05:00

had to do it. BAAI

some sad goodbyes

2009-12-13T13:22:00.000-05:00

I'm sure people were expecting a goodbye blog to our fellow friends here at school, although they won't be leaving forever (because of visits of course)they won't be here everyday like the rest of us shmucks -I think that's how you spell it. So I thought I would post something today in memory of our friends leaving SHU, and because I'm too lazy to start studying in the library.
It's sad to think that one of my BEST friends in this world will be leaving after this semester to go home- Kassy. She always lit up the room with adorable smile- or mean/drunken smirk she would give random people in the room. (I know this sounds like an obituary, but I don't care) Kass has this remarkable personality that I have never seen in another person before. She can turn my day from sucking so hard to making me roll around on the floor laughing, in a matter of seconds- there's not too many people in the world that can do that to me, haha. I've met a number of great people here at SHU, but when I met Kassy on the night before my birthday last year, it's changed my life since then. She's done me many favors as I have done for her too, but she would drop anything in a second if I needed help. Although I have taken care of her drunken ass many nights- I loved every second of it, as well as recorded every second of it (I would never show anyone though- it's only for us to laugh at). Some favorite moments you ask? Well..
Her countless nights on the dog bed because he bed was bunked too high for her drunk ass to climb up on and late night trips to Merrit (me driving, and Matt riding shotgun) with Kass singing obnoxiously loud in the back, then suddenly soundless- face planted in the seat. Day parties in the silly suite playing knee hockey and random nights celebrating that our exams were over for the week (more excuses to get drunk). Mike driving Soltisha's car with me and Kass in the back going to Mcdonalds and blasting Blink182. I will miss the giant sweatshirts she has from her brother, because it was mostly what I chose to wear everyday. Recording obnoxious videos of us mouthing the words to Queen and then posting it all over facebook for the world to see. Bagel trips in the morning to get not one, but two bagels just because we thought the bagels were too small (validating our fatness). Me making egg and cheeses on Thursday mornings for us. Playing pong in eckart. Dave Matthews band concert and me dying in the car when my Dad picked us up, but still didn't tell my mom that I yacked all over her front seat. Slightly Stoopid concert and me dying on the dirt and throwing up in Jared's car, (I don't mix well with concerts, baaai concerts). - side note- everytime I see the word concert, I think concerta... is that bad? I'll miss cakefarts and movie nights. Basically it's gonna be really hard to see Kass go, but we know she'll be back to visit because working in the bowling alley is gunna get old real fast. (just kidding, love u) You mean a lot to us Kass, cheers to you, dad :)

Kiefer and Rob- I'll miss you guys a lot. I'm going to leave this one open ended because I'm sure one of your fellow silly suiters will want to write something for you guys. Rob- I will miss your mojo (and I mean that in both terms). Day 1 in Seton, everyone was curious as to WHO Rob Coloney was, his 25,000 songs amazed everyone in our building. He has an amazing singing voice and an enormous TV that I'm sure everyone will miss. I will miss the neatness of his room and his hot dad. I will miss his radio show- but I won't miss his loving of the Yankees or any New York sports for that matter, :). Rob, you better visit soon. QUEEFER- I'll miss your love for Boston and that we both love Will Wilson and Twaaaanks. We'll miss your nickname- QUEEFER and we'll miss your smile, because if I do say- it's the best one in the world. I'll personally miss of your awesome tattoos and I'll miss that we both love that wonderful 4 letter word that leads to trails behind Jhill or a golf course?

You guys are awesome, never change and visit lots!

CHEERS TO YOU DADS :) GOOD LUCK.

Ho! Ho! Ho!

2009-12-10T00:54:00.001-05:00

PARMA, Ohio – Police near Cleveland say a man dressed as Santa Claus tried to kidnap a 12-year-old girl walking to school.
Anthony Russo was later arrested wearing the Santa suit, complete with pillow and beard, and carrying a sack, a large box of candy canes and a unicycle with Christmas decorations.
Parma Police Capt. Robert DeSimone says the 46-year-old Russo, of Brook Park, is jailed pending charges expected to be filed Thursday.
DeSimone says Russo was hiding in bushes Wednesday in costume and jumped out at the girl. He says Russo tried to get the girl into the bushes, but she walked away. DeSimone says the man followed the girl and grabbed her arm before she entered a store and reported the encounter to a worker.
Police say Russo was arrested on a transit bus.

Okay, lets just ignore the fact this guy dressed as Santa, hid in the bushes, and tried to kid nap a girl. What I want to focus on instead is the fact that this guy was fucking riding around on a unicycle. This man tried to kidnap someone on a unicycle. How the fuck is that supposed to work? Where was he going to put her after he completed the kidnapping? His lap? The Sack? If this girl did in fact get kidnapped, I would not be upset, just really impressed that someone kidnapped someone else on a unicycle.

Merry Christmas!

How Will Our Generation Be Remembered?

2009-12-03T23:56:00.004-05:00

I hope it is not for shows like "Jersey Shore," "The Real World," or "The Hills." But at this rate it could be. Because people like this are part of the same generation as I am:

Because that video was so awful, here is a better one to put a smile back on your face.

Intro to Microbiology LiveBlog.

2009-11-30T13:04:00.001-05:00

-although this is already on my blog, I'm going to throw it on here because I've yet to write anything. thanks. (I'll step my game up once finals is over)

5:01 PM- The annoying, smarty pants girl Ruth is talking to Professor Kardys, AGAIN. She is always talking to him before class and she is also always wearing a blue fleece vest with tight sweatpants, EW. "Okay, let's start class."- Professor Kardys. she finally sits down.

5:02 PM- roll call. Approximately 15 girls aren’t here. And because it’s a nursing class, there are only 2 boys and about 30 girls in the class. He's handing out our graded exams- get pummmmppped.

5:03 PM- 82- YES!

5:04 PM- He's chewing gum, again. In EVERY class he chews gum, but it's not cool. I'm actually affraid to ask him questions after class because white shit gathers in the corners of his lips. EW.

5:05 PM- "I just want to get an idea, how many people are actually taking notes during this class?" -Professor Kardys. 2 people raise their hands (out of 25)... "Okay.. let's begin".

5:08 PM- He keeps staring at me so I look up at the powerpoint and pretend to be taking down the notes in a word document. (a specialty of mine).

5:09 PM- He takes a drink of water from his thermos, hopefully to remove the white slime on his mouth.

5:10 PM- We've covered one slide about pathogens and keeps asking "Does anyone need more time?", no answer.

5:11 PM- Kardys is staring at the powerpoint... and is still not acknowledging this one girl who has had her hand raised for about 2 minutes. We're not in kindergarten sweetie if you need to use the bathroom, just get up.

5:12 PM- "Does anyone need more time?"- Kardys

5:13 PM- 15 girls have their computers. 8 are on facebook, 3 are on blackboard (not for this class), 1 is playing a motorcycle game, 1 is farming, 1 is studying notes for another class, and 1 is actually taking notes.

5:15 PM- Kardys just reached up to fix the projector and his briefs just popped out, disgusting.

5:17 PM- this class sucks.

5:18 PM- Kardys just said vagina, YES!, now I will take some notes.

5:20 PM- Why do I smell raw eggs? This is a lecture classroom, no one should be smelling raw eggs. I'm scared.

5:22 PM- The lights are now on in the classroom to copy stuff off the board... not one person is even looking at it.

5:23 PM- I ask myself- if this man wants to teach us anything, then why is he just reading right off the powerpoint, that we already have on our computers. Stupid, I should just get up there and teach.

5:24 PM- Some girl just strolled into class with a coffee and a sandwich. Bitch you're 24 minutes late, who do you think you are?

5:25 PM- All 15 girl are now on facebook, (not counting me).

5:26 PM- Ruth is now staring at Kardys and nodding. Yuck, stop it. I hate people.

5:28 PM- I just noticed how funny Kardys' hair is today. I just giggled a little and 5 girls turned around and stared at me. WHAT! It's not like I interupted your note taking!

5:29 PM- If one more person coughs I swear to God.

5:30 PM- Someone decides to go to the bathroom, a conversation is taking place in the back corner about going to the liquor store, and the girl in front of me is taking a nap.

5:31 PM- Lights are back on for more notes... everyone is still on facebook.

5:32 PM- Ruth asks a question and everyone is whispering to their friends how annoying she is.

5:33 PM- Kardys' voice is just like Forrest Gump's. strange.

5:34 PM- 4 people are texting... and the girl who went to the bathroom, still isn't back.

5:36 PM- the girl next to me has long fake nails, she also has a Mac, the sound of her typing- is OBNOXIOUS.

5:37 PM- Bathroom girl arrives!

5:38 PM- Someone else decides to take a stroll to the bathroom.

5:39 PM- The boy sitting 2 rows up is playing with the lever on his chair.

5:40 PM- He pulled the one that lowers you, HAHAHAHAHAHA he just slammed the seat all the way down to the floor. loser.

5:41 PM- The girl the row diagonally has been shuffling around in her bag for about 5 minutes now looking for something.

5:42 PM- OH, just her credit card to purchase some Juicy Couture flats online. I hate rich bitches.

5:43 PM- Awkward (turtle) silene... minus fingers typing.

5:44 PM- We've already learned about phagocytosis 30 times, why on earth is it going to the topic of our final? whatever.

5:45 PM- Facebook count- 10.

5:46 PM- Ruth just blew her nose. And yes, she's one of the people who blow their nose and then look at the tissue afterwards. gross.

5:47 PM- "Does anyone need more time?"

5:49 PM- My stomach just growled loudly because I'm hungry. The girl next to me turned and stares at my stomach.

5:50 PM- The girl in front of me is packing her backpack and closing her computer. Did I miss something?

5:51 PM- Nope, didn't miss anything... she just decided to leave. Lucky.

5:52 PM- Never Let Monkeys Eat Bananas - Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eocinophils, Basophils. I love acronyms.

5:55 PM- Random Things in plain sight (thanks mike)
Peanut butter
turtle skeleton
about 17 blackberrys
fish tank
corn meal

5:57 PM- "Does anyone need more time?" Kardys, your entire class is in the middle of a facebook frenzy, they don't have time for notes.

6:00 PM- text from Mike: "Just made my cousin cry in Mariotennis, Kids soft" ... asshole.

6:01 PM- 14 MINUTES TIL FREEDOM.

6:02 PM- one girl is braiding her hair, I'm intrigued.

6:03 PM- this coughing thing has gone beyond annoying. Maybe if more than half of the SHU population didn't smoke, we wouldn't have this problem. (NEWSFLASH- cigarettes kill.)

6:05 PM- LAST SLIDE. class is almost over. Everyone's still on facebook and the only thing I remember from this class is the word- vagina. success!

A Very Early Oscar Preview.

2009-11-29T01:42:00.001-05:00

The weather is getting colder. This means one thing, Oscar Season has arrived. Much has been made about two big changes to the 2010 Academy Awards. The first change is that it has moved back in the calendar, to March 7th, 2010. The second (and more peculiar) change is that there will be 10 nominees for Best Picture, rather than the usual 5. Several already released films have gotten plenty of buzz, as have several films that haven't been released yet. For your convenience I have broken down my predictions into 3 groups, Locks, Probables, and Dark Horse Candidates. Obviously, these are just guesses and I would not be surprised if I am way off. As William Goldman once said of Hollywood, "Nobody Knows Anything." So, with that in mind, lets do this. First, the locks:

Locks
- Precious: Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire
- Up
-Avatar

These three very different films are my three locks for nomination for very different reasons. There are some experts who are saying Precious is the best acted film of the year. Oscar worthy performances are turned in by Mo'Nique (not kidding), Mariah Carey (still not kidding), and newcomer Gabourey Sidibe. The movie did surprisingly well at the box office and was pushed (no pun intended) by both Oprah and Tyler Perry (those two together are the equivalent of eleventeen Barack Obamas).

Up is an interesting case. If it is in the category for Best Picture, does that mean it automatically wins Best Animated? That point aside, Up is most definitely going to be nominated but will have a tough time winning. No animated feature has ever won, and only one other, Beauty and the Beast in 1991, has ever been nominated for best picture. One could definitely argue that animated films will benefit the most from the expansion of the number of nominated films.

Avatar, James Cameron's $300 million dollar movie, is the third and final film that I consider to be a lock for Best Picture. Since it has not been released yet, and the previews are not revealing much it is leaving the general public in a state of confusion. However, it did cost $300 million dollars to make and it is James Cameron, that is enough for me to believe it will be there.

Probables

-Up In The Air
-A Serious Man
-The Lovely Bones
-Invictus
-Inglorious Basterds
-An Education
-The Hurt Locker

This category has a ton of big names, which could lead to big buzz.
Up In The Air has George Clooney and everyone's new favorite director Jason Reitman.
A Serious Man has the Coen Brothers.
The Lovely Bones is a Peter Jackson film.
Invictus is Eastwood+Damon+Freeman.
And of course Inglorious Basterds has Tarantino and Pitt (although Christoph Waltz is the best part of the movie).
The more intriguing films are the two that lack star power. First we will look at An Education.
An Education is a movie that nobody will talk about much in the mainstream media, but will certainly garner a lot of attention when it comes time for the Oscars. The movie left people amazed at both The Sundance and Toronto Film Festivals.
The Hurt Locker is the movie that should have had the most impact of any release this summer due to the fact that it is a movie about a few soldiers in Iraq. However, the best part of the movie is that it did not inspire any political rhetoric what so ever. Director Kathryn Bigelow (Point Break) did not make the movie about the war, no she made the movie about war and about the people in war. The movie was nearly perfect, save for one random, gratuitous scene.

Dark Horse Candidates
-500 Days of Summer
-The Road
-Public Enemies
-Nine

I picked these four movies either because I really liked them or because I have not heard much about them other than that they are supposed to be very well made, well acted films. In the case of both Public Enemies and 500 Days of Summer, I picked them because these are two of the better movies I saw thus far this year. 500 Days was a breath of fresh air for Romantic Comedy fans. Public Enemies was just a well made movies. It captured the feeling of the time, and made you fall in love with a murderous villain. The Road and Nine, on the other hand are supposed to be very, very good movies. Much is being made about Viggo Mortensen's performance in The Road. It is another Cormac McCarthy novel being adapted, as was No Country for Old Men, the winner in 2007. Nine is a Rob Marshall film. Why is that important? It isn't really except for the fact that he is rumored to be directing the fourth installment of Pirates of the Caribbean. Also, Daniel Day-Lewis stars in Nine. Which means that no matter what, it will get a lot of buzz.

Twas The Night Before Thanksgiving.

2009-11-26T02:16:00.001-05:00

I find it very peculiar how the night before Thanksgiving has developed into this uber-reunion type holiday. I understand this is the only holiday that everyone in America celebrates. I get it. Everyone wants to bask in the glory of completely wiping out a race of people. But these days, people look forward to the night before Thanksgiving more than the actual holiday itself. Okay, we get it, you haven't seen your friends in a few weeks because of work or school or whatever. That is all well and good, but it is where I draw the line. As a college student I love seeing my friends from home, but I don't care about seeing kids I hate from high school and having them pretend like I was their pal. I had several kids come up to me tonight and try to talk to me about how my life has been since high school. Oh, so now you want to know how my life has been? How about the four fucking years we spent in the same building you prick. Why didn't you care then? Was I not cool enough to talk to then? Now that nostalgia plays a role you actually want to talk to me? It is so sad that people actually think that they are doing other people a favor by saying "Hey." In a public environment. I am glad that this night is over and that I don't have to see any of the kids I hated in high school for another year.

Happy Thanksgiving.

We are men...sort of

2009-11-23T12:02:00.000-05:00

This post is going to be something of a confession and will leave me open to all kinds of shots at my manhood, but I feel it prudent to voice to the members and readers of The Common Room. This past Saturday morning I woke up early enough that I could flip through the channels before college football came on. College gameday was on, but unfortunately since there have been no good matchups since Halloween when USC were manhandled by Oregon and Texas won big at Oklahoma State, I really didnt want to see anything other than when Lee Corso made his choice of mascot head. This left me to flip through movies that were on. I always look to the deadly combination of TBS, TNT, USA, and FX first. Yes these channels do have commercials, but they often have some golden oldies on. What could possibly make someone's day better than a morning screening of Big Daddy or Tommy Boy? The selection on this particular morning was rather grim. One movie though, put me at a moral crossroads. There are a number of movies out there that I have trouble admitting that I like around male peers for fear of reprisal. It is one of those movies that you are flipping through the channels with a friend and this kind of movie comes on and you both look at one another and although neither of you will openly admit you want to watch it you come up with a lame excuse like "Well nothing else is on", "The remote is too far away", or relinquish the remote and tell your friend "You can change it if you want to." It is the type of movie that if you are watching alone with other people in your home you keep the remote handy so you can change the channel, so you dont have to withstand the bullyings of your mother or sister. All that said there is very little that is more gratifying than when you find out that a friend of yours enjoys the same type of movie because you can put up a united front against bullies such as your mother, sister, or sister's friends. The movie I chose to watch, and I am now proud to say I enjoy was 13 going on 30, a gem of a movie starring Mark Ruffalo as he uses his natural sage to guide former best friend Jennifer Garner back to her roots.

P.S. On a more masculine note make sure to check out the trailers for the new Scorcese movie that Ruffalo costars in alongside Leonardo DiCaprio, Shutter Island.

Why Christian Bale's Life Sucks.

2009-11-23T01:53:00.005-05:00

Honestly, it probably rocks. But I do believe he must be a frustrated individual, as is evidenced by his outburst on the set of Terminator Salvation, for he is a good actor but he gets out-acted in every movie. So without further ado, here is the Christian Bale Scale.

Movie: Newsies
Bale's Role: Jack 'Cowboy' Kelly
Out-Actor: Dean Portman
Verdict: Bale is pretty awesome in Newsies. But Dean Portman is a bash brother. Sorry Chris.

Movie: Pocahontas
Bale's Role: Thomas, the englishman who kills that indian who likes Pocahontas
Out-Actor: The Fuhrer Himself, Mel Gibson
Verdict: This was a tough call but Adolf, er, Mel does a good job singing all those songs.

Movie: Shaft
Bale's Role: Walter Wade Jr.
Out-Actor: Samuel L. Jackson
Verdict: No explanation necessary, "L" has Bale by leaps and bounds in both life and on set.

Movie: Batman Begins
Bale's Role: Batman
Out-Actor: Michael Caine and Gary Oldman
Verdict: This one was the closest one. Bale does a real good job in this movie. However, Oldman and Caine do a better job in this underrated film.

Movie: The New World
NOTE- This movie sucked. It could possibly be the worst movie I have ever seen. It made Big Fat Liar look like an Oscar winner.

Movie: 3:10 To Yuma
Bale's Role: Dan Evans
Out-Actor: Russell Crowe
Verdict: Gritty, gutty Western. The two main characters are cowboys and both are portrayed by foreigners. Oddly enough, they both sell it, Crowe wins on sheer guts.

Movie: The Dark Knight
Bale's Role: Batman
Out-Actor: Heath Ledger, Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, Gary Oldman, Aaron Eckhart
Verdict: Everyone made such a big deal about the job Heath Ledger did as the joker, that people sometimes forget how good the rest of the cast was. Bale was the sixth best actor in this movie and he still did a great job.

Movie: Public Enemies
Bale's Role: Melvin Purvis
Out-Actor: Johnny Depp
Verdict: This one was not even close. Johnny Depp kills it in Public Enemies.

Playdates: A Nostalgic Trip Back To My Younger Years.

2009-11-19T23:01:00.002-05:00

I loved play dates. Loved 'em. Everything about them to me was so innocent and wonderful. However one play date in my long history of play dates reigns supreme over the rest. It was a nice Spring day in 3rd grade and it was gym time. After a nice round of Tom and Jerry me and two friends slaked our thirst at the water fountain. While on line, a girl came behind me on line. She complemented me on my play and we went our separate ways. When gym was over we met up again. She asked me if I wanted to play kickball on her team at recess (the modern day equivalent of an absolute smoke show asking for my number at a bar or something, maybe I peaked at a very early age). Obviously I acquiesce her request and play kick ball. Now my memory is a little fuzzy here but I was a force at kick ball. I used to put on more clinics than a Baptist Church in Inner City Detroit. So, with that in mind my stats were probably something like this: 6 for 6 with 4 home runs, a triple, and a double. Most likely I drove in somewhere between 18-22 runs. In the field I probably put on a show as well, but we don't need to get mixed up in stats really. So anyways, after I went bonkers in kick ball me and this fine young lady got to talking. She told me that we should set up a play date after school. We decided it would be a good idea and that we would go home and then set it up. So, when the day ended and I went home I immediately asked my mom to call this girl's mom and see if we could have a play date. My mother played wingman for me and got out the PTA phonebook and gave this girl's mom a ring. When the conversation ended I looked at my mom with eager eyes and she told me that this girl was going to come over for a play date. Well to make a long story short this girl and I had a wonderful play date, played some soccer in the yard, watched some full house, probably ate some pizza bagels, and sent her on her merry way. Needless to say, this girl developed into one of the hotter girls in my neighborhood and soon enough she stopped recognizing my existence. Girls suck. But anyways, the reason I bring this up is I saw someone mention play dates on my Facebook news feed today, it made me think of how great they were. One mom calls another and sets up a play date with someone who you won't be friends with in a couple of weeks, most likely because they won't share their new Tonka Truck with you. Nowadays, kids don't need to do any work to have a play date. They just text their buddies from their Blackberry and boom, its done. Back when the days were good, we had to work for our play dates. I guess thats what made them that much sweeter.

Hipster Bullshit.

2009-11-19T20:17:00.000-05:00

http://nyc.barstoolsports.com/random-thoughts/hipster-douches-devastated-that-williamsburg-pool-parties-may-be-cancelled/

I'm going to start off saying that I do not read Barstool. I did not even know such a website existed until about a month and a half ago. I was told about the article posted above, so I figured I'd check it out. Well let me tell you Mr. "KFC" (the author), you suck. Fuck you. Now that's out of the way, I'd like to discuss why KFC and that blog suck. First of all bro, just because Jack Johnson and OAR, your brogods, won't play in a park for free doesn't mean the concerts are bad. Who doesn't like free music? Free live music? Shit man, its free live music OUTDOORS?! What's better than seeing a free show outside on a beautiful summer day? Not much. Even Senator Chuck Schumer is backing up the hipsters claiming that "the concerts would be back on the waterfront in 2010." So basically, this guy is shitting on probably one of the coolest summer events in the city just because he doesn't know any of the bands that are playing and because he hates "hipsters". "I dunno I've never heard shit about Pool Parties..." everyone knows if he did know about it, he would in fact have probably gone and had a ball if he wasn't such an ignorant prick. Between Dirty Projectors, Grizzly Bear, Girl Talk, Fucked Up and Deerhunter all playing this past summer, how can anyone complain about such a diverse musical lineup. Sorry, but just because the people in those bands are long haired, bearded men who wear slim fitting jeans and t-shirts, does not mean they're "douches". This guy probably sat at his computer and wrote this article sitting in his uggs with his northface zippered up and his lacrosse stick in hand. People like that shouldn't be allowed to post things on the internet.

8th Wonder of the World? Vending Machines

2009-11-19T02:25:00.000-05:00

Vending machines man. Vending machines. The things vending machines put a man through are almost unexplainable. That’s why I come to this blog once again, to give my meek attempt at explaining one of the world’s greatest inventions.

There is a lot that goes into a trip to the local vending machine. First you must prepare yourself mentally as well as physically. The physical is easy. Everyone knows you bring more money than you think you will need, just incase there is that hidden snack you weren’t expecting. The mental preparation is one of the tough parts. First as you are walking towards the machine you immediately get nervous as to what the machine had last time, what you’re hoping for this time, and the eventual what she is willing to give you. As soon as you arrive you’re hit with a rush. In my case as with other pathetic humans like me we call this adrenaline, it comes at big meals and during snack times.

Bright colors! Cheesy, Chocolaty, Sour, Salty!!!! So many choices! So you’re facing the opposition now. This is when things get strange. No matter what, when you go to a vending machine you are met with disappointment. “Ah fuck they only have Fritos! I’m in the mood for pizza.” Absurd but you still say it. Once you move on from wanting filet mignon, you start scanning your options. Do you attempt the double bag of M & M’s that are stuck? It could potentially be glorious. That is, if both fall. If not we will most definitely have a situation on our hands, because you’re not letting Joe Blow get the triple bagger if you paid for it. Carefully your eyes scan the top row down to the lower half. The one rule everyone knows from birth is you never get the Certs or the Wrigley’s. Every man woman and child on Earth knows you never get them and that they haven’t been replaced since that fine machine rolled of the production line in 1972.

So now you’ve scanned the machine and you have a new problem, your friends. Immediately the peanut gallery is on your back and the heat is on. The pressure has mounted, but we’re in luck! First round draft pick- Doritos! Top right corner, B123. It’s all yours, but again vending machines are crazy. Suddenly there is an extreme rush of nervousness all over your body in that 2 seconds before the food is selected. Everyone is so worried about fucking up the number, you double-triple-quadruple check the number of your Dipsy Doodles more than you checked the answers on your Physics final. I digress.

So you have made your decision. You’ve got the number punched in. Now the longest 3 and half seconds of your life are here. You have prepared yourself for this moment for the past five minuets. It’s time for your selection to fall. If all goes well it will. But on the off chance something goes awry, your day may be ruined.

KERPLUNK!! The Doritos landed safely and Mother vending machine has provided for you once again.

Now onto the soda machines, which is a whole different animal.

-tommy

Tis the Season ONLY of Buckle-Hat People

2009-11-18T14:51:00.002-05:00

So for some reason, and I have absolutely no idea what made me think of this, every year I'm reminded that some people try to jump the gun and start talking about Christmas when it's inappropriately early for the subject. Now don't get me wrong, I love Christmas. It is my favorite holiday of the year, and I look forward to it several times throughout the year.

(Now I know what question you're throwing around inside of that noggin of yours: "Didn't you just admit to commiting the very act you hate?" And the answer is no, because I merely think about it but never act on it. You may think about a certain opinion of a person and the things you may want to do to said person, but more times than not you will keep these thoughts at bay. Same thing goin on here.)

I, unlike so many, do not feel the need to celebrate Christmas particularly early. A few years ago, my friends and I made an agreement: no talk of Christmas until after Thanksgiving. No songs, no red & green, nothing. I've heard of people making similar agreements. Now that ABC Family has launched the "Countdown to the 25 days of Christmas," I feel that action needs to be taken on a much larger scale. They're counting down to a countdown! That's about as necessary as an Anne Frank joke on Yom Kippur.

Please give the pilgrim people their props. They actually got an entire species of people to celebrate their imminent demise. Agree with it or not, that's balsy. Give thanks, and please leave Christmas out of the discussion until Nov. 27.

Top Ten Christmas Songs Of All Time.

2009-11-17T01:54:00.002-05:00

1. Happy Xmas (War Is Over)- John Lennon
2. Come On! Lets Boogey To The Elf Dance- Sufjan Stevens
3. White Christmas- Bing Crosby
4. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas- Hootie & The Blowfish
5. Wonderful Christmastime- Paul McCartney
6. Christmas in Hollis- Run-DMC
7. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town- James Taylor
8. Here Comes Santa Claus- Elvis Presley
9. Christmas Eve- Trans-Siberian Orchestra
10. The Christmas Song- Nat "King" Cole

I figured now was a good time to post this since we are getting close to the holidays.

Happy Listening.

2009-11-12T16:46:00.000-05:00

Hello Common Room,

While doing my daily surfing the web routine, which along with coffee has become quite the daily addiction, I stumbled along this fine piece that I found quite enjoyable and stunningly accurate.

http://thepigskindoctors.com/2009/11/the-32-nfl-quarterbacks-and-their-major-league-pitching-equivalents/

Read and feel free to start any discussion in the comments section.

A Snacktacular Snack.

2009-11-11T23:42:00.000-05:00

In an earlier post I alluded to Cheez-Its and how I used to take them for granted. This year I have learned to really appreciate Cheez-Its for what they really are, the most versatile snack of all time. They are the utility infielders of the snack world. I have enjoyed my fair share of Cheez-Its in my day, and not once was I unhappy with I just ate, no matter the time. I think Cheez-Its are the best food in the 7-11 food group (the foods one can eat at any hour of the day without it being weird). In fact, I think Cheez-Its not only are versatile because of when they can devoured, but also are versatile because of what they can be devoured with. From Okra to Salmon there is never a meal that can't be spiced up with tiny square crackers packed with cheese flavor. In fact I declare that Cheez-Its are the only food that can take an any ordinary food experience (e.g. a Jack Daniels Burger from T.G.I.F) and turn it into something beautiful. So, the next time you go to your local grocery store to buy something for dinner, remember to buy Cheez-Its. Because we all know what they say, perfection does exist, in conveniently sized red boxes.

Fuck Cheese Nips, I'm Out.

Shame, Shame, Shame

2009-11-11T22:24:00.000-05:00

I am sitting on my couch with my roommates watching the 10PM news on Fox, which is a joke to begin with. No self respecting local news program (which is probably a paradox because there is no self respecting local news program, yes, were talking about you Ernie Anastos) should ever have an hour long program. Then again, I guess the joke is on me because I am the one sitting here watching it, and even worse, giving them recognition in my writing. That is besides the point, the thing that really bothered me is the little caption they put underneath peoples names to identify what they do or have done. I understand why they do this for lesser known people, so people who do not listen to the whole story can get a two word synopsis on why they are invading their living room via the television (or televisor as my portly spanish compatriate would say). Fox had a story about Peter Gabriel and his humanitarian work and labeled him a "Music Legend". I have no real issue with this, I would have been a little more comfortable labeling him "musician" or "humanitarian" since that is what the story was about. It is a bit overzealous of Fox, but whatever, it led to some fun banter between me and the roommates about what we could do with some other people's captions, such as Paris Hilton, Michael Jackson, etc. it got ridiculous, but it was fun, I recommend you try it as well. It wasn't until Chuck Norris came on that I became enraged. Let me state that I have nothing against Peter Gabriel, but Chuck Norris was simply labeled as "Actor." The man is a martial arts expert, insert quippy Chuck Norris fact here, and the best Fox could do was "Actor." Next time I hope for their sake that Fox rights this injustice.

Chuck Norris does not hunt because the word hunting infers the probability of failure. Chuck Norris goes killing.- Sorry I couldn't help myself

Holding open a door: don't do it

2009-11-11T10:48:00.000-05:00

LET IT BE KNOWN-whomever holds the door for you when your 10 feet away from them or more-they are not doing you a favor. in fact THEY SUCK. First off they think that they're doing a godly charity act by holding this fucking door open for you. Secondly by them holding the door open for you while your like 5 minutes away from the door forces you to hurry up to accept the door opening. BUT its a fucking door!!! i can open a door!! you can open a door!! Those people suck and its been something i've been bickering about for a while now

A not so epic stair-down

2009-11-10T17:46:00.000-05:00

I’ve been working in an office building for a couple of months now. I’m on the top floor of an 8-floor building in the city (quite the skyscraper I know). The mail center in this particular building is on the 6th floor, and there’s another company that has offices on the 7th and 8th floors. Why am I giving you a detailed layout? Because I’ve noticed something about the other company that tends to bother me: they avoid the staircase like the plague. I admit that I have just as many (sometimes more) bouts of laziness than a lot of people, but when dropping off mail, I take the stairs. Why? It’s mainly because of the pseudo exercise I tell myself that I’m getting, but it also has to do with this growing epidemic. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve taken the elevator to the ground floor and had someone take the elevator from the 8th to 7th floor and then another person take it from the 7th to the 6th floor. The staircase leads to the same place as the elevators do, and it’s 2 flights of about 10 steps each! Once, I overheard one of their employees say he was going to the mail center, so I took the stairs at a regular pace and beat him by a suprising margin. I’ve been trying to figure it out since I started, and so far I have nothing. Every person I’ve seen on the elevator could physically handle the stairs without any difficulty. Is it possible that an entire company is vehemently against taking the stairs? Is it perhaps company policy? Either way I don’t get it. But if you’re taking the elevator less than two floors, then I suggest doing it alone.

Monday Night Live Blog

2009-11-09T21:25:00.000-05:00

I go to Sacred Heart University and live in a suite with 11 other guys. There’s plenty in the world to write about but from time to time I’d like to write what’s directly in front of me. This is tonight’s live-blog.

7:27 First swig and Monday nights round of Edward Forty Hand’s in the Silly Suite has begun.

7:28 Andrew Soltish has claimed to have just had the ‘key’ burp already. This may be due to the fact that he ate a Pork sandwich 5 mins before the game began. Not a good sign.

7:33 Zach is working the one handed game and is far below the label on his right hand but has a full beer in his left. The rest of the crew is working the double fist. The double-fist is my own personal strategy.

7:37 Ryan’s radio show is on in the background and surprisingly enough he is playing a lot of upbeat music, which I feel is leading to the aggressive drinking.

7:40 Zach is about 3 sips away from finishing his first forty, pretty significant for a first timer. Go Zach!

7:43 Zach is well in the lead and is 40 oz’s from freedom.

7:44 While probably in last place, Mike is easily the most entertaining during this game. He has instant messaged, neatly disposed of dirty tissues and provided family entertainment for the whole suite (all with no hands, ma!).

7:46 During this slight lull in the action (due to a boring story) I would like to mention that of all of the five participants in this game except one, Christopher Gallagher, is abiding by standard forty hands rules. However no one disputes his ways due to the fact that Chris can’t drink beer. Chris plays forty hands with two monster and vodkas. He’s disgusting.

7:54 Chris is done with his mixed drinks and has alerted us he will be returning shortly after making another mixed drink.

7:57 Emmett is pronouncing suitemate names wrong. Soltish has announced he’s drunk and Zach forgot Emmett was playing. This is when the game gets fun.

8:00 People get so loud when they drink.

8:01 I am 2 Natty’s in and it kind of sucks I don’t have any forty’s cause my friends just got drunk in 15 mins.

8:02 I’ve noticed several labored burps beginning from the “players”

8:04 Zach (our ‘hands virgin) is two sips away from finishing. I’m amazed

8:05 Emmett has been telling me for 20 mins that nobody knows how close to done he is and he will beat everyone

8:08 Emmett is in the bathroom currently bent over the bowl. I’m very surprised at my roommate.

8:08 Zach is done!

8:10 Apparently after some serious burping and some deep breaths, Emmett is still in the game, without puking.

8:11 Trash talking is big on the Leboff/Biondi team. The gossip talking is huge on the Soltish/Burpmeister team.

8:14 Biondi just held the tissue as Leboff blew his nose. That’s not teamwork that’s roommate love.

8:16 Miraculously, Leboff straggled in the finish and let both Emmett and Soltish take the win. Despite the opposition’s victory, all is not lost. Zach the first timer has surprisingly won the overall game. Congrats.

8:22 The game is over and I have a room full of drunken suitemates. It took less than 45 mins of my Monday night. That was easy and well worth it.

‘til next time all.

tommy

White People Trade for Sammy Sosa

2009-11-09T16:18:00.001-05:00

So apparently Sammy Sosa got his skin bleached. I call bull shit on that. My guess is that steroids had something to do with this. But anyways Sammy, welcome to the light side.

Amigo

2009-11-09T15:46:00.000-05:00

Every Monday that there is an English Premier League match up. ESPN 2 airs the game live at 2:55 EDT. This has become somewhat of a ritual for me during my exciting period of unemployment. Roll out of bed around 12:30, so I don't have to deal with the kids my roommate Patti babysits. Don't get me wrong I love kids (not in a Michael Jackson way), but the one girl that Patti babysits for makes Macaulay Culkin in Uncle Buck seem like a mute. She asks more ridiculous and repetitive questions than I knew possible, but anyway I digress. From 12:30 on I watch Sports Center, and catch up on emails from the weekend. About a half an hour before game time, I decide on what my meal for the afternoon will be. Today, I decided on a regular slice and buffalo chicken slice from Miceli's. I love Gino's buffalo chicken slices, but Miceli's buffalo chicken is very underrated, especially for people who like more spice and less bleu cheese. This is where my story unfolds. I ordered my slices just like any other day; I paid, received my food, and began the trek back to my car. As I was leaving I saw a portly hispanic man walking in. I stepped aside to let him in, but at that same time he motioned for me to go through. I acquiesced to his polite offering and thanked him in kind. That is when he said it; "Ok amigo." I always enjoy when people are polite, but this was something more. I thought to myself "Dave, why was this more than just a polite exchange?" Then I understood, it wasn't just this man smiling and responding, but that he recognized me crossculturally. He could have just said something like "No problem," but he thought it prudent to speak to me in his native tongue. It was as if I acted as an ambassador to the people of some hispanic nation, and this man accepted my olive branch and exchanged one to me in kind. Now looking back on the experience I just wish I could have shared some facet of my culture with this man, such as buying him a pint, or perhaps politely tapping his backside with a hockey stick (a Lithuanian tradition that bears the equivalence of the American hug). If only all exchanges between cultures could be handled in such as way.

Hello Cyber-Expression

2009-11-09T15:41:00.000-05:00

I've held the general opinion that blogs aren't an effective means of expression or an interesting form of conversing, but hell i'll try anything once (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcze-UD1D4w). I guess my main problem with blogs is ive assumed the prevalence of rather in depth descriptions of personal experiences or opinions that end up overly introspective/conceited. Here in the the common room, as our cyperspace club is appropriately named, things sound a little more multi-dimensional with some giving and taking goin down. So, figured id begin by giving all you fans out there some of my recent dylan faves from youtube you hopefully havent seen, with first a great outtake from eat the document -- straight sexy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1isqzasUtk&feature=related

next percy's song which youve prolly heard joan baez sings on dont look back

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqW7W40DIOk

a nice 1965 era rocker with a great refrain

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLeutT09Vnk&feature=related

and an alternate rare visions of johanna with a distinct feel

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tI492mTwa0w&feature=related

one more-- bonus track "old hollywood" for those loving phrazes for the young

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4iQWgF0UMEg

hopefully these links work and you haven't heard, and will enjoy, at least one of these.

Be Kind, Rewind!

2009-11-09T15:04:00.000-05:00

So over the past 3 semesters I've realized that our generation loves computers. I think that every single class i've been to throughout my college career, at least one person is sitting in the back flipping through their new facebook photos from that "siqqq 3kegger" the past saturday night. Don't get me wrong, i have no problems with the internets or computers in general, but come on folks let's use them with a little more appropriately. The one aspect that i'm going to focus on though is specifically in class when notes are being taken. Call me old fashioned but i personally like to write my notes in a notebook. I don't know why, but i feel its just easier and more efficient. I don't care if you want to type your notes into word, that also is fine with me. The thing that gets me though, man, is when teachers give their class powerpoint presentations in advance, and people download them to their computer and print them out. First of all, those things are like 18 pages long. Who wants to waste 18 pages worth of ink and not to mention the 18 pages of paper. If you're going to sit on your laptop all class, why not just open the presentation on your computer? Besides the trees that you are killing, you look like an idiot. In my art history class, there's a girl who sits in front of me who every class decides to print out our powerpoint. On EVERY slide there is a large picture of some old Vase or Mosc along with facts about the piece of art. Think about how much ink is wasted there! Don't tell me things like, "oh it makes me more prepared for class" and "i learn so much better with it." No, you don't. I'm so sure walking to the print lab and standing on line to print out 30 pages and then throw them in a binder is going to help you get the material down pat. Why not just open it up on your laptop instead?? Would it kill you if you couldn't be on facebook for 45 minutes out of your day? It doesn't make you look more "studious" or anything like that, you just look dumb. So please stop. That is all

Straight Chilling.

2009-11-09T03:43:00.001-05:00

My roommate is not sleeping here tonight, which means that I have this simple cubicle to myself for the evening. While it does suck that I won't be pillow-chatting tonight, it does mean I have a license to chill for the whole night.

This year I have a new found respect for chilling. Chilling goes beyond sitting on a coach and munching out to a movie, TV, or playing a video game. When one is totally chilling, they are in an existential dream. For when one is chilling or lounging out, he or she knows that from the moment they hit the point where they are totally comfortable with where there life is in that exact moment to the moment they decide to snap out of chill mode, nothing is going to bother them.

It is peculiar the types of things one can take for granted in life, I used to take chilling for granted (I also used to take Cheez-Its for granted but that is another story for another time). Now, after seeing so many people around me start to take themselves too seriously, I have realized that they have lost their license to chill and will regret spending so much of their allotted time being uptight and anxious. And, I do not want that to happen to me. So I am taking life slow these days, one chill session at a time.

summertime blues and cousin it

2009-11-09T02:16:00.002-05:00

well, hello internet!! yea!!!! i am jay,mac and i/m currently residing in my comfortable quad here in wonderfully nested Scranton Pa. The unusual good weather of clear skies and 65 degree weather here today got me thinking summertime. not that that matters or anything. but it so happened that after my routine vap tonight i happened to pick up the most recent issue of Rolling Stone and i just happened to flip to a page about this psychedelic early 60s band Blue Cheer and that so happened to pull me to youtube to naturally get visual and audio of this band. my inquisitive quest did not disappoint. i fell upon this Eddie Cochran "Summertime blues" cover. Enjoy, reminisce, anticipate, whatever you will, this gets you into that summertime feel. oh yeah, cousin itt absolutely fucks shit up on drums.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU5uDozoSSM

Welcome to the Common Room

2009-11-08T18:19:00.000-05:00

Dear All,

I am glad you have found your way to The Common Room. This is a place where absurdity meets elegance in such a matter that has never happened before. The Common Room is comprised of a team of writers whom I am sure you will all get to know and love very soon. As of right now The Common Room is still being furnished. It should be ready in the very near future. The Common Room is all about being yourself so I ask you to take off your coats and make yourself at home and enjoy the comfortability of The Common Room.

We Look Forward to Seeing You Soon,

The Common Room Staff