since its thanksgiving ...

What I am thankful for as we enter my favorite month of the year (and yes, the tree is already up, the stockings are ready to hang, and with luck, the first present goes under the tree on Friday ...)

* Sports wise, I am most thankful for the magical, miraculous three pointer by Mario Chalmers to force overtime against Memphis in the national title game. As Dusty and Megan can confirm ... I literally hit the floor, curled up in the fetal position, and cried for four minutes when that three went in. Plus I pounded the floor a few times. Rock! Chalk! Championship!!!

* Politics wise, I am thankful that a new era is upon us. Where we will go with President Obama, I don't pretend to know. But I'm grateful ... and humbled ... that our great nation, which less than 40 years ago said President Obama's parents weren't allowed to marry based on their skin color, has now elected this man to rule the free world. What an awesome, awe-inspiring nation we live in!

Most importantly, people-wise ...

* I am thankful for an incredible roommate who ignores my obvious moments of insanity, and just rolls with the punches. Dusty's one of the truly good ones in life. And I don't say that about many people. Dusty is one of the truly good ones in life.

* I'm thankful for getting to know the roomie's former girlfriend. I've freely admitted, I had a crush on her. Still do. Not quite "stuff Steve in the box like Joey crammed Chandler in the box on Friends" level of crush, but still. I miss Megan. Looking forward to her homecoming next month. Megan redefines the meaning of "one of the truly good ones in life". (aww ...) OK, let's move on before Dusty starts driving nails into a makeshift box in the main room for the next Bucks party ...

* I'm also thankful for getting to really know one of his best friends, Damien. That guy is also one of the few truly good ones in life.

* I am thankful for the previous roommate and his lovely and beautiful better half, for embracing and welcoming me into their new life. I'm not the easiest person in this life to live with, or get to know ... yet Gregg put up with me for what, seven, eight years? Good Lord. And Ashley just looked the other way so many times, went with the flow so many other times ... two more people that are truly the good ones in life.

* I am thankful that Brent has moved back here from North Carolina. Because without that decision ... wait. If he doesn't move back, I'd have never lost my spot on the couch. No, just kidding. Without that decision, I'd have never met Meagan, or Mallory, or countless other folks that have enriched the 2008 experience.

* I am thankful for two incredible bosses right now, who stand behind me no matter what. Who actually give a sh*t about their employees. Its been a long, long time since I had that in the workplace. Not since pre-Josh.

* I am thankful for the "core members" of my tailgating group. Russ and Mona, my second parents. And Nancy, my second mom. Just ... you can't do better than any of them. You just can't. 2009 will be better than 2008, for all of us. Bet on it.

* I am thankful for the college roommate, Vineet. I can't imagine what life would have been like without him. Or what life post 9/11 would have been like without him. Here's to believing we never relive that day.

* I'm thankful for Chris. Two of the five best concerts I've been to in the last couple years, he was there. I think that's a pattern. Plus, he's another of the truly good ones in life. Hang in there champ. Its always darkest just before it goes pitch black.

* I am thankful for my folks. To have two down to earth, honest, decent people to look up to, and respect, is a rarity in life. To be able to claim them as your mom and dad ... wow.

* I am thankful for my brother. Drew and I were not really close growing up. Our parents once forced us to be "roommates" as a punishment. (It lasted 2 hours, my mom gave up because we were literally beating each other senseless). I didn't really get to know Drew until college, when I started driving up for his games my senior year / his freshman year. Then he started staying at the apartment more and more. Then got the job as an intern in my department.

I cannot imagine life without him. I don't even want to envision it. He is ... I have so much respect for that guy. I hope someday to be half the man, husband, and father that he is.

* and the sister in law as well. They're a perfect match.

* Finally, I am most grateful for, well, the only person ever born that I have literally cried over seeing, touching, holding for the first time:



Ayden Graham.

Cutest. Kid. Ever.

Welcome to this life pal. Between your dad, your mom, your uncle (hey, that's me!), your grandpas, and your grandmas, you will always know what it means to be loved.

Especially from your uncle, champ ...

the border war prediction

"Any of you that's ever played down in Columbia, Missouri, you know its a damned war! And that's another thing -- some of you old timers that have been down there, you gotta tell these young people what its like!

They will do everything in their power to distract you from the football game! They got, I don't know what in the hell they call it, their damned group that they put them on scholarship, and all they do is to just get out there and hollar at you, and call you names -- they'll call you everything that you've ever heard of before!

They're trying to get your mind off of the football game! Their fans, they're -- 80,000 of them, or however many there'll be, will all be drunk. There won't be a sober person in the whole damned stadium ..."

-- Legendary KU Coach Don Fambrough, from his pep talk delivered to the 2005 Jayhawks prior to the MU game.

------------------

It is a war.

Albeit for tailgating purposes, a friendly kind of war.

Saturday, at almost high noon, KU and MU do battle on the gridiron.

The stakes are nowhere near as high as last year's epic battle, when KU entered at #2, MU entered at #4, the Big XII North title, the number one ranking in the land, and a potential national championship berth were on the line.

This year, all that's on the line for both schools is pride. MU has already won the North, and will play whoever survives the South next week at Arrowhead for a BCS berth (with the South team likely playing for a national championship berth). KU is bowl eligible, and will go bowling in back to back years for the first time in program history. (Further proof that if you're a team I have season tickets for, you probably suck ass).

But one thing that hasn't changed ... is the hatred of both teams fans for the opposition.

Saturday, we'll be rolling into (probably) Lot G to tailgate the day up right. We're starting early. Dusty and I will be there by 8. Brent, Meagan, and Mallory to follow shortly, if they don't beat us in. Damien to get the grill going for some promising breakfast tacos and quesadillas. Damien's sister and whoever she brings to ... uuh, be typical college kids -- hopefully have so much fun they won't remember a damned thing come Sunday morning.

If you're going, feel free to stop by. I figure we'll do our damnest to grab our usual Chiefs tailgating spot, in the grassy lot at the back of Lot G. The washers will be tossed, the footballs will be flying, the grill will be smoking, the mamossa's will be bubbly, the jello shots will be cold and smooth, (hopefully) we'll have some brownies ... and I'm setting 3.5 as the over / under on the "Steve Drinking" game.

(I'm also guessing Dusty and Damien will not be locking arms and swaying side to side with Brent, Meagan and myself for the Alma Mater. But that's ok. They don't have to "lift the chorus ever onward" ... so long as they promise to drop the "rip his f*cking head off!!! chant at least once. Really, its the greatest chant in sports. Hope you'll participate ...)

I feel this game will be close. I think it will come down to who has the ball last.

I'm guessing we won't.

MU 38, KU (+15) 35.

Whatever happens on the field though ... there's a saying we had in Texas, to recognize a UT / A&M mixed gathering -- "Where we're united by the fact that Texas Tech isn't a real school". KU, MU fans? We can unite behind the fact that Kansas State University isn't a real school, just made a horrid, jaw droppingly awful, backward looking hire, and the only school we have to fear other than each other for the next decade in the division is Nebraska.

Until Saturday, have a great holiday, enjoy the friends and family, and remember: Hawk Football! You Can't Drink All Day, Unless You Start in the Morning!

steve reacts to ridiculous fox 4 story

Readers of this site know that I am not a fan of the religious right.

I believe the religious right, the evangelical right, whatever you want to call it, has done more damage, harm, and destruction to this great nation than every other group or organization you can think of combined. These people stand in the way of progress at every turn, opposing stem cell research, opposing environmental protections. They oppose equal rights for all citizens, as evidenced by their stance on gay rights. They would rather hold placards and chant catchy themes at a problem (abortion), rather than embrace common sense tactics to reduce or eliminate the problem (condom distribution, legalization of morning after pill, sex education classes that teach more than just abstinence).

For a group of people so hell bent on imposing their moral standards on everyone, isn't it incredible how many sex and fraud scandals emerge amongst their elite? When was the last time a week went by without a "top evangelist resigns amidst sex scandal" headline? Or "key religious organization's accounting practices questions, prosecutors subpoena the books" article?

Or my personal favorite example of far right logic, if you can call it that: cheating on your wife (aka getting head from an intern), well that's high crimes and treason against the Constitution and worthy of removal from office. Lying about winning a war, resulting in the additional deaths of over 4,000 citizens as a result, well that's ok. Hell, that's not just ok -- we'll re-elect that guy!

Like I said, can't say I'm a fan of these people. And I usually get a good laugh or three at the inevitable articles exposing these hypocrites for what they are.

But this one, on FOX 4 last night ... this one is just priceless.

Its been a while since I broke a story down "Steve style", so let's do this. The article itself is in italics, by the way. My commentary is in regular font.

The link: http://www.myfoxkc.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail?contentId=7951418&version=3&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=1.1.1

KANSAS CITY, MO -- From the soccer field to the basketball court, the fight is on. But, instead of school versus school, it's religion versus religion.

In a FOX 4 Problem Solvers Investigation, high school athletes are upset. They've been barred from the state finals, not because they lack talent, but because of where they go to church.

sk: are you kidding me. I nearly spit out the shiraz when I heard this opening. At first I thought this was going to be a "Christian school won't play Muslim school" kind of thing, but oh no. That would be giving these people way too much credit ...

"On their website it says they are promoting an athletic association in a Christian environment. Yet they are discriminating against us," said Brandon Wood. Wood plays soccer for Center Place Restoration School in Independence.

sk: "they are discriminating against us". No. I mean, the religious right never engages in spite and intolerance against those different from them. I'm shocked -- shocked! -- that someone would accuse those people of being anything less than friendly and inclusive to people of all faiths and backgrounds ...

Wood's team plays against private Christian schools across Missouri and until a few years ago his school competed in the Missouri Christian School State Finals. In fact, Brandon's school even received the Outstanding Christian Award.

That's until the Missouri Christian School Athletic Association decided Brandon's school wasn't Christian enough.

"We might have different beliefs but we are still Christian because we do believe in Christ," said Wood.

sk: wait for it ... wait for it, this is about to get hysterical, at least to me ...

That's not according to a very detailed statement of faith adopted by the Athletic Association. It says the true word of God is in a Bible consisting of 66 books from Genesis to Revelations and no more.

Because Brandon's school is based on Mormon beliefs and follows more than 66 books, it had to drop out of the association. And, it's not just Mormons that had to leave. So did a Catholic school and Episcopalians now can't join.

sk: and boom goes the dynamite! Seriously, is this a f*cking joke? Since when is evangelical Christianity the model for what being a Christian is? Since when do these self righteous blowhards determine what being a Christian is? Seems to me, I was taught that you're saved by faith in Jesus? I mean, wasn't that what we were taught growing up in the Church? That the church you belong to, the works you do, the words you say, that doesn't make you a Christian, its a faith in Jesus that does? Did I miss something here? Good grief, these people are just unbelievable. Cracked Magazine unbelievable.

"You always want your kids to think that it is a fair world and that you have commonalities with these other christian schools. I would like to see our commonalities be the things that unite us and not small doctrinal differences that divide us," said Center Place Athletic Director Judy Faunce.

sk: I'd like these people to just go away, but tragically, we can't always get what we want, Judy.

What Faunce can't understand is why her kids can play in local tournaments against schools that are part of the Missouri Christian School Athletic Association schools, yet her kids can't join the association or go to the state finals.

sk: Judy, you seem like a nice lady, but really, you have to understand, you cannot apply logic to these people. They're not logical. This isn't about sports or competition or fairness to them. Its about ideology. Namely, you are different than me, therefore you are a bad person and can't play with my kids. Its completely illogical. Its religion at its finest.

Star basketball player Kirsten Baker is baffled. She's hoping to go to college on a sports scholarship.

"It's very frustrating especially if I'm trying to be recruited. A lot of them ask if you go online and fill out their questionnaires or even just talk to you have you ever been all state. Or how far did your team go in state?" said Baker.

sk: I feel sorry for the kids in this, I honestly do. They're the ones getting screwed here. Seriously, how the hell do so many people buy into these people's way of thinking? I have good friends that are SDA's. Most of my family is Catholic. Does that mean we stand around whenever we get together and get into a p*ssing match over whose Bible is more accurate? Hell no! Because at the end of the day, we share the same basic value and belief systems! We just have a slightly different method of getting there. Someone needs to knock some sense into the heads of this athletic association ...

For four years, the kids at Center Place Restoration have been trying to convince the association to return to the original statement of faith that allowed them and others to participate.

"We've sent stuff to them and asked them to change their policies but they have started not even to respond to us any more," said Baker.

sk: wait. Hold it. This one just really blew my mind. This is a NEW development? Its only in the last couple years that these schools have been kicked out of the organization? What kind of idiot makes a decision to "change the statement of faith" that results in a worse organization, a smaller less effective one, than what you already had? What kind of moron does this to high school kids, simply because their Bible has a couple extra pages in it, pages that are accepted as "statements of faith" by their church? This is just retarded to me. But then again, retarded and the far right tend to be synonymous words.

Still, let me be fair here. I'm sure that this decision will be explained and defended by the head of this organization, and by the people who supported the change, right? I mean, if faith is about one thing, its transparency, correct? Our lives being an open book, an example to the world of what Christ would live as?

So, Brandon called FOX 4 Problem Solvers and we called the head of the Missouri Christian School Athletic Association, Terry Alcorn in Springfield.

We wanted an on-camera interview so Alcorn could explain why the organization was excluding Mormons, Catholics and Episcopalians.

Alcorn declined to go on camera. He even asked us not to show up at the state finals in Joplin. He told us the overwhelming majority of athletic directors at the member schools agree that Mormons, Catholics or Episcopalians should not be members.

FOX 4 tried to talk to some of those athletic directors at Raytown Baptist Church where they were attending a Conference of Christian Schools.

But, none of them would talk to us on camera. Off camera one man told us the statement of faith was adopted because the majority of schools are Evangelical and they don't want their students to play against students who they don't consider to be Christian.

sk: I love the religious right. Look it, I understand the folks at Raytown Baptist Church not wanting to be quoted on camera. I'm actually ok with that, I'm not a fan of ambush journalism for the most part. But for the head of the association to not only refuse an interview, refuse to explain the policy, but to also in essence ban a news organization from a news worthy event, are you kidding me?

Who exactly benefits from this news blackout imposed by the association? Surely they don't. They come across looking like a bunch of bigoted idiots. Or worse. Surely not the kids in the schools allowed in the association, because their teams are being denied the right to prove they can beat anyone that's on a level par with them. Surely not the kids in the banned schools, because they're being denied that same right. Surely not the parents paying to send their kids to any of these schools, because their kids are not being granted opportunities they're paying for.

Who benefits from this? I mean, that is what every person involved in this fiasco should be asked. Who the hell benefits from a friggin disagreement over whose Bible is most accurate?

"When I was asked 'Am I Christian?' I said, 'Yes' and they said 'What is your definition?'" Faunce told FOX 4. "I am follower of Christ. That I believe in Jesus Christ and him being the son of God and that the only way I can attain salvation is through him and that makes me a Christian."

sk: seems to me that is the Bible's definition of what a Christian is. Too bad some folks in the association decided to commit an even crasser offense than "adding to the Bible", and actually change said Bible's definition of what being a Christian is. I'd like to ask them what possessed them to change Jesus' own definition of what being a follower of his means. If they'd ever grant me an interview of course, which is about as likely to occur as me hooking up with someone tonight.

But, not to the Missouri Christian School Athletic Association. It was pretty grim for the kids at Center Place Restoration School until we met Corrie Lopez.

"What does the indicative mood do?" said Lopez.

Lopez is with the Training Center Christian School in Garden City. She is also an Athletic Director at an Evangelical School. But, she wants to see Mormons, Catholics and Episcopalians back on the court again.

"We shot ourselves in the foot when we eliminated the schools. Now the league is much smaller and now we are searching for schools to come play," said Lopez.

sk: the point I made a few paragraphs above. When you make a change, it damned well had better be to improve the situation. That is true for anything in life, for any group or business or in this case, athletic association. You don't just make a change to make a change, you do it to improve. Clearly, limiting membership in this association only to people who buy into the narrowest definitions of their faith, is not an improvement for anyone.

Lopez said differences in Christian theology shouldn't apply to sports. "We have never had a student change their religion because of what they play on the basketball court."

sk: exactly! That's the issue here: what the hell does your belief in Jesus, or how many books there are in the Bible, have to do with shooting a ball through a hoop? Or throwing a ball into a deep cover two? Or kicking a ball into the upper 90? What the hell does religion have to do with high school sports? Or any sport for that matter?

The policy stands in contrast to the largest Christian Athletic Association in the world, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

"We don't exclude churches. We don't exclude denominations," said Dan Rogeberg, with the FCA.

Everyone can attend an FCA event. Although the FCA does not allow mormons to hold leadership positions.

sk: see, this is how the Missouri Christian School Athletic Association should handle this situation. Thank you FCA for exhibiting some common sense. Now its up to the MCSAA to follow suit. Will they?

So, how do you solve this problem?

The Missouri Christian School Athletic Association says the only way to change the statement of faith is to have a member school request it and, then all the schools must vote on it.

Corrie Lopez said she plans to have her school make that request to help get kids back in the game again.

The Missouri Christian School Athletic Association is expected to vote on the issue this Spring. Unfortunately, even if it passes it will be too late for Brandon and Kirsten. But, it would help younger students.

sk: "help students". What a novel idea for a school athletic association to do, help the students. I mean, isn't that the whole freaking point of anything and everything affiliated with education, is to help the damned students?

Here's hoping these kooks that run the MCSAA revise their policies, allow these kids and their schools back into their organization, and realize that one person's definition of being a Christian isn't necessarily the right one. Here's betting they won't ...

as jim nantz would say ...

Easter Sunday, April 11, 2004.

The roommate got to witness history live, as did our buddy Tim. I was stuck at family events ... until Mickelson reached the 9th, when I'd had all I could take.

I said my goodbyes, headed out the door, drove like a maniac to get home.

I walked in the door, fired up the TV, as Mickelson stood on the 12th tee, 3 back of Els with 7 to go (and Els had just eagled 13).

He just nailed the tee shot on 12, birdie result. Birdie 13. Birdie 14. A shocking par on 15. Then the shot of the tournament to that point, the first time I cried, when he drilled it on 16 to within 12 feet. And the glorious, magical words of Verne Lundquist on the putt for bird. "Mickelson ... Yes Sir! There You Have It! He's Tied with 2 to go!"

Par on 17, Tremendous tee shot on 18. Incredible approach on 18, that DeMarco's 3rd shot gave him a great read from.

As Jim Nantz famously called it ...

"Is it his time? ..."

I say that ... because the 25 Hall of Fame semi-finalists have been announced for the 2009 NFL Hall of Fame. Up to 5 of these guys will make it.

Here are the 25 semi-finalists, in alphabetical order, with primary team / team they'll go in with, before any semi-colon, and other teams they played for after it:

* Cris Carter, WR, Vikings; Eagles.
* Roger Craig, RB, 49ers; raiders, Vikings.
* terrell davis, RB, donkeys.
* Dermontti Dawson, C, Steelers.
* Richard Dent, DE, Bears; 49ers, Colts, Eagles.
* Chris Doleman, DE, Vikings; Falcons, 49ers.
* Kevin Greene, DE, Rams; Steelers, Panthers, 49ers.
* Russ Grimm, G, Redskins.
* ray guy, P, raiders.
* Charles Haley, DE, 49ers; Cowboys.
* lester hayes, CB, raiders.
* Cortez Kennedy, DE, Seahawks.
* Bob Kuechenberg, G, Dolphins.
* Randall McDaniel, G, Vikings; Bucs.
* Art Modell, owner, Browns; Ravens.
* John Randle, DT, Vikings; Seahawks.
* Andre Reed, WR, Bills; Redskins.
* shannon sharpe, TE, donkeys; Ravens.
* Bruce Smith, DE, Bills; Redskins.
* ken stabler, QB, raiders: Oilers, Saints.
* Paul Tagliabue, commish.
* Steve Tasker, ST, Bills; Oilers.
* Ralph Wilson, owner, Bills.
* rod woodson, CB, Steelers; Ravens, raiders, 49ers.

Oh, and

* Derrick Thomas, LB, Chiefs.

Realistically, I see three sure-fire, guaranteed to get elected HOFers in there. sharpe, who contrary to what us Tony G lovers think, is THE greatest tight end in league history. Bruce Smith, who dominated offensive tackles for a decade for some tremendous Bills teams. And Rod Woodson, who was as dominant of a defensive back as you'll ever find.

Figure those three easily cruise into the finalist round, and the HOF. That leaves 12 finalist slots (and 2 HOF slots) for my boy Derrick.

(The two Senior nominees are Bob Hayes and Claude Humphrey. They are voted on separately).

Here's my guess as to how it unfolds.

Finalists (15 total):

* Cris Carter
* Dermontti Dawson
* Chris Doleman
* Kevin Greene
* Russ Grimm
* Charles Haley
* Lester Hayes
* Bob Kuechenberg
* Art Modell
* ken stabler
* shannon sharpe
* Bruce Smith
* Derrick Thomas
* Ralph Wilson

HOF:

* Rod Woodson.
* shannon sharpe.
* Bruce Smith.
* Russ Grimm.
* Derrick Thomas.

I think Bob Gretz, whose speech every year in DT's honor gains another vote or three, will be so glorious, so incredible, that this year, he gets the 2-3 votes he was missing last year to put him over the top. I have to believe, after every damned thing has gone wrong on the field for the Red and Gold, that a tremendous honor for the player that defined my generation of Chiefs fans is going to go right.

"Is it his time ... YES!" -- Jim Nantz as Mickelson's 12 foot putt skirted the edge, then dropped in, to win his first major, 2004 Masters.

Hopefully this means we're planning a road trip for the first week in August to a little slice of heaven known as Canton.

Ohio, not Illinois. Good God, nobody will ever confuse Canton, Illinois with a "little slice of heaven" ...

two years ago today ...

I am beginning typing this at about 6pm. It was right about that time, two years ago tonight, that our tailgating group took top honors at the Thanksgiving Night game against denver.

That night, anything seemed possible. A flawed, beat up, horrendously managed team won 19-10 to get to 7-4, in control of its own playoff destiny. The celebration that night was amazing. (Its in a "classic" recap posted in July).

Since that night ... the Chiefs are 7-25. They have lost 19 of 20, after today. We've started 5 different guys, and played 7, at quarterback. Our franchise running back is likely gone after the season. Our fanbase is so disgusted that it is avoiding the product in record numbers. And we can definitely say that a defense that held the vaunted donkeys rushing game to 38 yards that night, is in utter ruin.

On the bright side ... at least the other team I follow religiously looks good at this point. (fireman ed voice) J E T S Jets Jets Jets!

Here we go ...

* The "core group" today was down to 4. So we made the decision last night that we weren't hauling the tailgating vehicles out, we weren't getting up at the ass crack of dawn, we'd all arrive at Russ and Mona's by 9:30 and just tailgate. Solid decision.

* The sandwiches were delicious. The bloody mary's were delicious. And it was nice to avoid the awkwardness that all the cracks in the current group have created. To say nothing of meeting some new folks. Kind of a Royals Sunday tailgate atmosphere, only at a Chiefs game. Good friends, having a good time, over some good food and booze. I liked it.

* Headed down to the Grigsby's tailgate about 10:45. Had a lovely 30 plus minute stay. Its always good to see good people doing, uuh, good. Which most everyone down there appears to be.

* Got to the seat about 11:30. I opted not to drink during the game today, save for the flask. Mainly because I'm sick of giving this franchise even $0.01 more than they deserve of my money, let alone $10 for the Labatt Blue 24oz.

* KC Wolf's sketch was actually kind of funny for the second week in a row. This week's was a James Bond ripoff. The "magically appearing ATV" trick was actually laugh out loud funny. At least to me. I love the "conveniently and strategically placed ATV" that Wolf finds every week to aid him in his revenge quest.

* Every frigging regular person in 131 / 132 was there today. It was unbelievable. Every single one, save for Gary and his wife (they were there; they just used their other tickets today, ran into him in the bathroom line). I only note this, because you have to figure this might be the final time that opening statement can be said.

* Hootie! Hootie! OK, just Darius Rucker, performing the National Anthem, but man was I fired up.

* I was pleasantly surprised at the attendance today. I guessed 35,000 would show up in my picks. I'm guessing it was close to 60,000. The lower bowl was filled. The club level wasn't shabby. Even the upper deck was pretty populated in the decent seats. To show up in decent numbers to watch a 1-9 squad that's lost 18 of its last 19, is impressive.

* Bills won the toss, and deferred. I don't understand why every team doesn't do that. Of course, I've never understood why you'd want to play defense first, I'd always want to send my offense out and put the opposition on notice that we're shoving it down your throat today, so get your gag reflex ready. But that's probably just me.

* Speaking of get the gag reflex ready, our first drive everyone! Charles cut to reach the end zone was sweet. It was the first time we had scored a touchdown on our opening drive this year. That is ... Jesus, that is horrendous.

* The Bills response? A beautiful drive that ends with a 4th and one plunge into the end zone. They had runs on that drive of 11, 13, 14, and 15 yards. You just have to admire that.

* The Bills scored on 9 of their first 10 possessions: 5 TDs and 4 FGs. They also had the TAINT to add 7 to their total. Call me crazy, but when you can't stop the other team, and they're scoring with their defense, you're in trouble pal.

* Another awful Chiefs stat, courtesy Mitch and Len: the Bills converted a 3rd and 7 on their second drive, that ended in a field goal to go up 10-7. After that conversion, the Chiefs had faced 3rd and 7 or 8 15 times this season. The opposition had convered 11 of those 15 times. Again, call me crazy, but when 3rd and long is easily makeable against you, you're probably 1-9.

* LJ's long run! That helped the fantasy team. Although you watch, I guarantee you his getting tackled at the 2, and not scoring, is going to somehow cost me my playoff game against Anthony when our two week battle is done next week.

* Awesome bootleg by Thigpen, to Gonzalez, for the touchdown.

Now that we're hitting the point the Chiefs opted to no longer give a sh*t, I'll do the same, and go rapid style and end this. That, and the Colts / Chargers are getting ready to kick off, huge game tonight in my never ending quest to see denver miss the postseason:

* Thigpen needs to learn how to throw a slant.

* Bills QB Trent Edwards is really good at play action.

* If Thigpen hadn't thrown pick number two before the half, the Bills utter incompetence at clock management could have really aided us. (They ran out of bounds on 2nd down, then had to burn a timeout after 3rd down because a gimpy player couldn't get off the field. If neither event occurs, they kick the FG with about :20 on the clock, instead of 1:36).

* Edwards TD run right before the half is arguably the single worst play run against us this year. Someone should be sh*t canned for that.

* The halftime show was horrendous. Absolutely horrendous.

* Blatant hold in the end zone on Edwards' second TD. Walker just mauled Jarrad Page at the goalline to spring Edwards for the six. Not called, despite side judge and referee Leavy being right there to see it.

* Nice of the sun to make an appearance after the half. It was a little chilly with the cloud cover. And yes ... I was in shorts.

* Stat courtesy of kansascity.com: of the 16 NFL head coaches with at least 75 career games as head coach in the league, guess who has the worst winning percentage of any of them? Herm Edwards, at .420 and falling after today. When you're worse than Norv Turner, its probably time to make a change. Beginning with the man who not only hired you, but gave away a 4th round pick that turned into Leon Washington to bring you to town.

* I left after the Bills went up 47-27. I couldn't take it anymore. If the team I love doesn't care enough to man up and play some defense, why the hell should I stick around and watch.

* The Chiefs have 6 sacks as a team. 19 individual players have at least 6 sacks. Can someone explain to me why Tim Crumrie has a job?

* Speaking of horrendous coaches, my God, Mike Priefer everyone! If this isn't the worst special teams unit in franchise history, I cringe to think of what's worse. Twice in this game, we had returners crash into each other because neither one called the other off. We had three muffed kickoffs. We had Mike Cox dive to field a ball in front of a returner. The punting game today was horrendous. At least Connor Barth hit his field goal attempt, a tough 45 yarder with the swirling wind conditions.

* I guess, in the end, that you have to view this objectively. This is just another defeat in a long line of them, another setback in a season full of them.

But today ... I don't know. Today felt different. I honestly don't feel angry, or upset. I really don't feel the need to drink this one away, even though I probably will. I'm not frustrated, or punching counters, or even taking a walk to vent.

Today was just another game. Nothing special, nothing to get emotionally attached to, just another Chiefs football game. Nothing more, nothing less.

I don't know whether that's a good thing, or a bad thing ... but I know I don't like it ...

a steve's site congratulations

to good buddy, "Rivermaster", former co-worker, fellow Jayhawk enthusiast, ridiculous overly-optimistic Royals fan, and loyal reader Heath, who is marrying the lovely Sarah today. Congratulations champ! Here's hoping you have a long, happy, prosperous life together.

And if not, well ...

(dan dierdorf voice) we've seen it before.
(frank gifford voice) oh yeah.

I kid, I kid. I like Sarah, so I'm rooting for this one to work. Seriously, congratulations to the two of you, I wish you nothing but the best.

when "good friends" get what they deserve

Today at work, a person in our department was let go. Considering we're already severely understaffed ... and that most of us are working 8 plus hours in the office, plus 2-3 more at home every night, you'd think this would be a disturbing development.

It wasn't.

I mean, I feel sorry for this person, because trying to find a job right now can't be easy. Especially given their age (60). Having said that ... the reason we're all working 55 hours a week is because this person literally did nothing. They literally did nothing. And got away with it for almost two years. So, our workload won't increase as a result of downsizing. That's effed up.

I don't wish unemployment on many people. In my nearly ten years in the professional workplace (Good Lord, I'm getting old), I have rooted for exactly two co-workers to get sh*t canned. Hell, I did more than root -- I proudly acted as a key catalyst to get them both terminated.

Readers who worked with me at my previous employer, can probably immediately figure out who those two were. One was booted July 28, 2003, the other April 9, 2004. And yes, I hate(d) them so much that I still remember the dates they were fired. That's ... ok, that's slightly insane, I will grant you. But still, my point is, I don't wish ill on many folks when it comes to their ability to draw a paycheck.

So on Sunday, November 16th, 2008, when the sports world saw a head coach lose his job ... all I could do was smile. Cheer. Feel optimistic, positive, uplifted.

And I dare say, every Chiefs fan felt at least some satisfaction at seeing it happen.

Our "good friend", Greg Robinson, is out as Syracuse head coach, effective at the end of the season.

Thank God.

Look it, Robinson is a nice guy. I've actually met him a couple times, when he was here destroying the Chiefs defense at the beginning of this decade. He is one of the truly decent, stand-up, arguably honorable guys in the coaching profession.

He's also an awful, awful, awful coach. He is absolutely wretched at his job. The man ... he's a truly awful head coach. (every Chiefs fan reading this nodding in agreement).

I hope Syracuse makes a solid hire, and returns to its rightful place atop the Big East. It wasn't that long ago that McNabb to Harrison was landing the Orange in BCS bowls. That Dwight Freeney was decimating opposing quarterbacks.

The 'Cuse has a storied, rich, proud tradition.

That Greg Robinson whizzed over, crapped on, and drug behind a El Camino through the dirt for the last four years.

Make a solid hire, AD Gross. Don't botch this opportunity like you did the last one ...

the week twelve predictions

"Hey girl, you know you drive me crazy!
One look puts the rhythm in my hand.
Still I'll never understand why you hang around,
I see what's going down.

Cover up with makeup in the mirror,
Tell yourself it's never gonna happen again,
You cry alone,
And then he swears he loves you ...

Do you feel like a man,
When you push her around?
Do you feel better now,
As she falls to the ground?
Well I tell you my friend,
One day this world's gonna end,
As your lies crumble down,
A new life she has found ..."

-- "Face Down" by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus. And yes, I am flat out saying being one of the last die hard season ticket holders for this franchise is the direct equivalent of having the person you love take a freaking fist to you every night in a drunken stupor ...

-----------------

Last Week SU: 9-6-1
Season to Date SU: 84-73-1

Last Week ATS: 5-11-0
Season to Date ATS: 75-82-1

Last Week Upset / Week: looked good entering the fourth quarter.
Season to Date Upset / Week: 3-8-0
This Week's Upset / Week:

The Non-Chiefs Predictions:

* at Steelers (-11) 27, Bengals 3.
* at Browns (-3) 31, Texans 24.
* Jets (+5 1/2) 31, at Titans 27.
* Patriots (+1 1/2) 16, at Dolphins 9.
* at Cowboys (-10 1/2) 41, 49ers 0.
* Buccaneers (-9) 24, at Lions 14.
* at Ravens (-1) 26, Eagles 21.
* Bears (-9) 34, at Rams 3.
* at Jaguars (-2 1/2) 24, Vikings 20.
* Panthers (+1) 17, at Falcons 13.
* Redskins (-3) 24, at Seahawks 20.
* at Cardinals (+3) 34, Giants 30.
* at Chargers (-3) 41, Colts 20.
* at Saints (-2 1/2) 27, Packers 24.

The "Steve roots solely for deaths, paralysis, career-ending injuries, and terrorist strikes" showdown:

* at broncos (-10) 51, raiders 0. Words cannot describe how much I hate both franchises. Especially the home team. Again, if the terrorists strike during this game, and blow fake mile high up, is it actually a national tragedy? I continue to say no. God above, I f*cking hate these two teams ...

The Chiefs Prediction:

It wasn't that long ago, that Buffalo / Kansas City was a huge game. Or at least memorable. Consider the last few times these teams have tangled:

* 2005 at "The Ralph": a bad Bills team beat the Chiefs, a defeat that ultimately cost the Chiefs a playoff berth.

* 2003 at Arrowhead: a Sunday Night Football blowout victory by the Chiefs.

* 2002 at Arrowhead: a shocking defensive masterpiece by the "32 Defense", as the Chiefs completely shut down the Bills in the second half, and an Eric Warfield interception sealed a one point win.

* 2000 at Arrowhead: the game that I think ultimately did Gunther in. Both squads entered at 5-5, in the thick of the wildcard race. Bills won on a fake punt, called by the punter ... because the Chiefs only had 9 guys on the field for the return. BOTH gunners were uncovered. God I miss Mike Stock.

* 1997 at Arrowhead: one of Gunther's finest moments. Chiefs led 23-17 in the home opener. Bills had goal to go with :26 to go. First down, Gun sent 7, incomplete. Second down, Gun brought 8, incomplete. Arrowhead rocking. Third down, Gun sent 8 again, another incompletion. On fourth down, Gun literally sent every defender on the field. Collins had no chance. Chiefs hold on to win.

* 1996 at "The Ralph": the season finale. The loss gave the AFC East title to Buffalo, and cost the Chiefs the final wildcard spot.

And that doesn't even address the two playoff games (both won by Buffalo), the 1993 showdown at Arrowhead that was an incredible game to witness, as Montana and Kelly both just put on a clinic, and of course, the 1991 game that put the Chiefs on the national map.

This year, doesn't figure to be memorable. The Chiefs enter at 1-9, in last place, losers of 18 of 19. The Bills enter at 5-5, in last place, losers of 4 straight. Something has to give.

The Bills need this one badly to keep their fading playoff hopes alive. Sadly ... they'll get it.

Bills (-3) 24, at Chiefs 21, in front of maybe 35,000 people who have nothing better to do. If you go Sunday, you know where I sit. (And if you don't, feel free to ask). There were at least 5 empties immediately around me last Sunday. Here's guessing there will be more this week. (My way of saying, if you're going to witness the latest Carl Peterson induced abortion in person, at least witness it with one of the last die-hards still standing ...)

mark the calendars!

After some hard fought, tough nosed ... ok, "please, let's find a way to make this work" negotiations with the beautiful, lovely, talented, amazing "wife" known to the world as Megan ... a Bucks Party is on for Saturday, December 27th, at the Casa de Dusty y Steve.

Tipoff is 7:30, against divisional rival Detroit.

Hope you can make it.

If we schedule a watch party between now and December 27th, (verne lundquist voice) wonderful! If not ... you're on notice for party number two.

Week Twelve Picks coming tomorrow, along with potentially my thoughts on our "good friend", Greg Robinson, finding out the true meaning of "confident ... and classy" ...

"classic" roadie: chiefs! bengals! 2003!

As best I remember it. I'm sure I'm missing stuff ... but there's just too much that was golden on this trip to not attempt to remember ...

* Road Trip participants: me and Gregg. Any road trip that is some combination of me, Gregg, Brent, and/or Jasson, is "old school" to the core.

* Left KC at some point on Friday, and stayed at (I believe) the Marriott at Lambert Airport in beautiful St Louis. I know we hit the Marriott and the Hilton, I believe the Hilton was the drive back and Marriott was on the way there. Either way, when you have to freaking pay to park at a hotel, and said hotel is NOT in the Tri-State or the Bay Area, that's ridiculous.

* I know we went to Dave and Buster's for dinner that Friday night. I also remember stopping at the gas station for a 12 pack before heading back to the hotel room. Said 12 pack didn't last the night.

* Saturday, we stopped off at my favorite place on earth, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where I completed my first (and to date, only) lap around the track. In a tragic development, you could still see the awful black stripe where Paul Dana had lost the car (and his life) earlier that week.

* Saturday around 5ish, we finally roll into the 'Nati. OK, technically, the 'Newport, since we stayed in Newport, Kentucky, at the Radisson.

* And allow me to go off on said Radisson. First of all, our room was f*cking freezing. I remember that. There was no heat to be had anywhere. Secondly, because the thing was built like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, there was only one bed in the room, and it could barely fit one person, let alone the "two" the room advertised it could hold. Anyways, Gregg won it. (I forget if we flipped a coin, or did rock / paper / scissors). So I was on the floor. Which normally, I'm fine with. As my close friends can attest: I can sleep anywhere, on anything, if I'm tired or drunk enough. I slept on a friggin tree root that destroyed my air mattress on Float Trip 08 ... and never gave it a moment's thought.

I also had that wonderful night at the 2006 "Gregg and Steve's Blow Up the Backyard Beer BBQ Bonanza", when I tried to go to sleep ... passed out on the floor ... and when the alarm went off the next morning to get up for the IndyCar race, I realized I not only was on the floor, the dogs were sleeping next to me just like I was up in the bed. (homer simpson voice) Here's to alcohol! The cause of, and solution to, all of life's problems ...

But this floor ... was ridiculous. Bad enough its 30 degrees outside AND inside the room. To add the concrete floor ... not a good night. Sadly, a sign of things to come.

* Saturday, the traditional "pregame" meal was at Mitchell's Seafood joint there in Newport. Incredible. Just incredible. Not quite Willie G's in Houston good, but pretty close. After a few libations at some sports bar there on the Riverfront, off to the concrete floor!

* Woke up early Sunday, headed down to get a paper, and recall encountering a Bengals fan and his wife in the lobby. Friendly folks, they drove in a few hours for every home game, only they stayed at a hotel instead of with friends and family. That earns my respect. You drive x amount of hours every game to see your team play, you're on my "champ" list, pal.

* The tailgating scene in Cincinnati is awful. Just wretched. Half the folks park in a parking garage and just head inside. The other half wouldn't know a quality tailgate if it bit them in the ass.

* Paul Brown Stadium itself is very nice. I hope the concourses at Arrowhead are as wide as they are at The Paul when the remodel is done. My only complaint about the stadium is the bathroom in the east end zone where we sat. One entrance in, one entrance out. (peter griffin voice) cracked magazine. Even Arrowhead offers multiple doors for every bathroom. Absolutely ridiculous.

* we sat in the east end zone, maybe 11th, 12 row. Solid seat purchase.

* they had fireworks go off during the National Anthem, which is fine ... only the weather conditions that day (40ish, very humid, light rain) meant the smoke went nowhere. The kickoff was actually delayed because of the fog like conditions the fireworks created.

* "the moment". The Bengals have just stretched the lead to 24-13 on a Peter Warrick bomb touchdown catch. I've just about had all I can stand from arrogant Bengals fan. Up to this point, I was my usual charming, amusing self. I had stood there and taken the taunts, the cheap shots. You have to expect that when you're a visiting fan. But if you give it out, you'd better be ready to take it back. So when drunk Bengals fan (and he was five sheets to the wind), when he drops the "its over b*tch! Its over! Your team f*cking sucks!" blast, I calmly pull the guy down to engage in a private conversation.

I go "you know, there's still 7 minutes left buddy. We were down 17 at this point a month ago to Green Bay, and won. So shut your mother f*cking mouth". Apparently he took offense to the word "mouth", because that's what he attempted to hit. He took a swing at me, and connected on the side of my left eye, knocking my glasses off. I was enraged. Everyone else was stunned. I swiftly headed up to find security.

Only ... there was no "security" to be found. After a couple minutes I finally find a guy, explain what happened ... and he just looked at me and said "well, you're a Chiefs fan, what do you expect?" Are you f*cking kidding me? Look it, I am all for taunting, razzing, even the occasional profane blast at the other team's fans. I engage in it every Sunday at Arrowhead, because the two seats next to me that do get used are almost always filled with visiting team's fans. But I never escalate it to violence, and will immediately seek security to protect them if anyone does escalate it that far.

Finally I find a guy who gets it, and he comes back with me. Drunk Bengals fan refuses to leave. After a brief scene, he's escorted out. Even his buddies confirmed my version of the events, they at least had a conscience.

The final encounter I had with the guy, security asks if I want to press charges. I declined. Sure, he assaulted me ... but we've all done dumb things while drinking and watching a game involving a team we love. One stupid screw up shouldn't cost you $500 plus and an additional night in jail.

* that was the first time I was ever assaulted at a roadie. Didn't even make it a month until Vikings fans decided to defile my Santa hat like "New Brian" defiled Rupert ... and played my head like a bongo drum. Stay classy NFL fans. Stay classy.

* Chiefs lost 24-19. On the walk out, Bengals fans celebrating everywhere. The taunting began almost immediately. Fine. You won a game. Enjoy it. But when a few of them started chanting "bandwagon" ... are you kidding me? I've seen Gregg angry before. Usually because of something I did ... or didn't pay him for. But this, this was rage. You don't call us "bandwagon" when it comes to the Chiefs, pal. Anyone who knows who "The Golden Toe" is, ain't bandwagon.

* the drive from Cincinnati to St. Louis for the night started out ok. Got to see Kentucky Speedway, literally in the middle of nowhere, about halfway between Louisville and Cincinnati. Drove by Churchill Downs (I'd love to be in the infield for the Derby at least once before I hit 40, would be too old to be there, so I'd have to sit with the stuck ups in the stands ...), and headed across the Ohio River to freedom! Oh wait, I'm flashing back to that Underground Railroad Museum. I'm white, I could have crossed the Ohio with no problems.

* Once we crossed though ... (steve sighing with frustration). The drive home last January from Milwaukee, in a blinding fog, was bad. This was horrible. At least that Milwaukee drive, I could see 50 feet in front of me. This fog was so bad, I was scared to go faster than 30mph, the sightlines were that bad. And this is coming from someone who gets irate when getting stuck behind someone not going at least 75mph in the left lane. I drive like a Texan and make no apologies for it. But even I took it overly cautious.

* Got to St. Louis, and pretty much immediately crashed. Probably the last time I went to bed without downing an adult beverage or four. (I kid, I kid. I know I had a few trips to Canton after this roadie ...) I not only got a bed ... there was a friggin heater in the room. Novel idea, heating a room you're paying $100 / night for. Novel idea.

* trip home to KC the next day was relatively uneventful.

* the big joke on the drive home was "can we get Phogger out the door before she whizzes from excitement at seeing us". My guess was no. Thankfully I lost. I miss that dog sometimes. You have to love a dog whose favorite thing in life was to flop on her back, stick her paws up, and just let you rub her belly ... and then got angry when you'd quit after 10 minutes because your arm and hand were worn out. Like I said, I miss that dog.

* and that's about it. I'm sure I missed a few things that I originally commented on, but since I no longer work at "company with a pyramid type building as its logo", I don't know what all the original email said. The next "classic" roadie to recap should be the Dallas trip in 2005, that one ... easily my favorite roadie ever.

a friday night in lawrence

(how I spent my Friday night ... photo: me via the webcam).

I've been blessed enough in this life, that really, save for Jimmy Buffett, I have seen every artist I love in concert at least once.

And entering Friday night, if I had to rank my favorite concerts I've ever been to, here's four of my top 5:

* Paul McCartney at Arrowhead, summer 1992. The "Off the Ground" tour, me and my mom and 80,000 others singing every word to every song for 2 plus hours. Kind of like a religious experience if you will. (Just avoid getting my mom off on the Beatles. She still has the ticket from the 1964 show at old Municipal Stadium framed in the house. Which in her defense ... I would too).

In fact, to this day, the only "regret" I have when it comes to Chiefs football, is the Sunday night before Thanksgiving 1995. Chiefs hosted the old Houston Oilers. Tied up with less than 20 seconds to go. Oilers simply running the clock out to go to overtime. My first semester of college (yup, I'm old). I didn't come home for this game, I hadn't come up with the brilliant "all Tuesday / Thursday classes means 4 day weekends!" schedule yet. So I flip back to ABC because the Beatles Anthology is about to debut "Free as a Bird". And my mom and I are talking on the phone discussing the first "new" Beatles song in 25 years ... when all hell breaks loose in the dorm room next door to me (two fellow KC area students). It was Mark Collins returning the fumble by Todd McNair to give the Chiefs the most improbable of wins. Needless to say ... "Free as a Bird" is not one of my favorite Beatles songs.

* Ben Harper at Starlight, summer 2006. I love Ben Harper, but this one just rocked the house. Me, Dusty, Chris and Ryan. In a friggin monsoon. It rained like there was no tomorrow once Benny took the stage. A solid 90 minutes, smoking in the rain, singing along to every awesome word (he'd just released the amazing "Both Sides of the Gun" cd). Awesome stuff.

* Carole King at the Midland, spring 2006. A last second addition, my mom and dad were going but my mom was sick. So I filled in. And loved every friggin second of it. Seriously readers, "Tapestry" is one of, if not the single greatest, cds / albums / call it what you want, of all time. "I Feel The Earth Move". "So Far Away". "Its Too Late". "Tapestry". "Out In the Cold", a highly underrated song. My favorite song on the cd, "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" (listen for a young, up and coming, uncredited James Taylor as the backup vocal). A cd so incredible, that it spawned 7 top 5 smashes ... and she gave two of those 7 away to other artists! And even more incredibly, BOTH of them are arguably those famous artists "signature" song! "(You Make Me Feel Like a) Natural Woman". And "You've Got a Friend". Just ... to sit and listen to such incredible artistry for two plus hours, its something everyone should get to experience at least once.

* Projekt Revolution at Sandstone, summer 2004. I've detailed in the "answers to the quiz" post from late July why this one is my favorite concert ever.

But the fifth concert on my top 5 list ... is the one I'd compare Friday night's Matt Nathanson concert to.

It was a cold, late September evening in 2002. I went with this girl named Courtney to Sandstone that night to see Sheryl Crow. I honestly didn't want to go. I liked Sheryl Crow, but wasn't a huge fan. Plus, it was friggin freezing outside, it was in the 40s that night. But I liked the girl, so why not.

Michelle Branch opened for Sheryl that night. Awesome, awesome performer live. Just amazing. Plus I've always dug "All You Wanted", highly underrated song. So about 9pm, Sheryl takes the stage. She's just released a new cd, and plays some song off the new album I hadn't heard. Then, she takes the mic, and basically says the following:

(sheryl crow) Hello Kansas City!
(crowd) (roars its approval)
(sheryl crow) As I'm sure a lot of you know, I view this as my hometown venue!
(crowd) (more roaring its approval)
(sheryl crow) So as my loyal fans, I want you to decide what tonight's show will be! What do you want to hear?

And for the next 2 1/2 hours, she sang her classics, she sang other folks classics, it was an audience driven, audience interactive show. That's what Friday night was like with Matt Nathanson for me. A fun, full on interactive show that never left you bored, never left you tired, kept you into the performance, and was still rocking Lawrence hard at 1:20 in the morning, nearly 3 full hours after he took the stage.

A few highlights / recap thoughts:

* left for Lawrence around 5:45pm. I rode up with Heath and Sarah, because I wasn't staying the night. Dusty and Damien followed.

* Met up at Quinton's with Meagan, Mallory and Dana. A couple quick thoughts on what is rapidly becoming my favorite bar in Lawrence:

1. any place that has pint sized "well drinks" for $3, is my kind of joint. Even if they were a little watered down, its all good.

2. the double vodka tonic, holy Lord. I make my adult beverages "steve style" (aka a 50 / 50 mix of liquor and mixer). This thing was at least 60/40 booze. Awesome.

3. The bacon potato soup bowl is just amazing.

* left Quinton's around 8:15 to walk the three blocks to the Bottleneck for the concert. The line was impressive. Took almost half an hour to get in.

* the opening act, and the 2nd act, I liked them both. I apologize that I don't remember their names, but the opening act, I really liked. And that was the one Heath and Sarah said was "just ok" coming into this event. I really liked the lead singer. He's got a solid voice, has kind of a smooth style at the keyboard, good stuff. The chick who went 2nd was solid as well. And pleasant to look at. Always a plus.

* Finally about 10:30ish, the featured performer took the stage. As much as I like Matt Nathanson, I'm still new to some of his stuff. So I'm not the best person to recap his show, obviously. But "Car Crash" was his 2nd song, I like that one a lot. He also did "Bent" pretty early on, another Steve approved selection. Although I wish he'd gone off on the "Such Great Heights" closing rant by the Postal Service like he does on the live cd I have downloaded on my mp3 player. Its the perfect close to that song.

* He was big into audience interaction. Played off the crowd really well, I thought. Plus, its obvious that while he's serious about his music, he doesn't take himself seriously. I dig that in a person, the ability to make fun of yourself, to let the funny comebacks just roll off you and give the audience a cheap laugh. I love people like that.

* I also loved all the 1980s music he worked into his show. Anytime you get a Rick Springfield reference / partial song, its all good.

* Speaking of all good, $3 wells and draws all night. Let me get this straight: a concert venue with solid acts AND cheap booze?!?! (steve with stunned, shocked expression of amazement ...)

* Performed "Curve of the Earth" at about midnight. He was 90 minutes in at that point, and the four best songs of the night were yet to go. That's f*cking amazing.

* Followed that up with "I Saw", a song rapidly climbing my favorites list. Its my 3rd favorite he does (my favorite two closed the show for us, more below).

* My 2nd favorite moment of the night: when he divided the house up for A-ha's "Take On Me". Look it, I'm a child of the 80s. I love 80s music for the most part. And to have the entire audience chanting / singing at each other "Take On Me / Take On Me / Take Me On / Take On Me" and then unite for "I'll Be Gone ...", I just totally loved that moment of the show.

* My favorite moment though, was Matt performing back to back my two favorites by him. "Answering Machine" is my favorite song he does. I friggin love the lyrics. I love the sound. Just awesome stuff all around. (Good God, I'm sounding more and more like my mom with my use of the word "awesome". Might need to reign that in).

Then, following "Answering Machine", in Matt's words, "the single". "Come On Get Higher". I actually just closed my eyes as I sang along to the words, just soaked it all in. In an entirely unrelated development, I was probably pushing a .15 at that point as well, plus (bill clinton voice) I'd inhaled.

* After that, me, Heath and Sarah were out. After a quick, pretty much mandatory puke in the alley, it was off for home, which I reached at 2:24am. I finished watching some TV, set the alarm for 7:30, and got three hours of sleep before heading back to Lawrence for the KU / UT debacle.

All in all, an awesome, awesome concert ... that would probably rank 6th or 7th on my list of favorites. I would definitely pay to see Matt Nathanson again, and I strongly encourage all of you to do the same. Two huge thumbs up for Friday night's show.

I'll post some pics when / if they're sent on to me ...

the week eleven chiefs prediction

"The stars will cry,
The blackest tears tonight.
This is the moment that I live for!
I can smell the ocean air!

Here I am!
Pouring my heart onto these rooftops!
Just a ghost to the world,
That's exactly, exactly what I need --

From up here the city lights burn,
Like a thousand miles of fire,
And I'm here to sing this anthem,
Of our dying day ..."

-- Story of the Year, "Anthem of Our Dying Day"

-----------------------

November 16th is a day that has some historical significance attached to it when it comes to the Red and Gold recently.

The last three times we have taken the field on November 16th, it has been memorable:

* November 16, 2003. at Bengals 24, Chiefs 19. The Chiefs entered this game at 9-0. I entered this game with a handsome, impressive, "every girl dreams about waking up next to this" face. Both left the game beat up and bloodied. Although my favorite moment (because let's face it, getting decked by drunk Bengals fan is not a "favorite" moment), my favorite moment was leaving that game, as Bengals fans are celebrating in the streets in front of the Underground Railroad Museum, when some of them start taunting me and Gregg as "bandwagon Chiefs fans". That moment just kills me. Yeah. Of ALL the people in this life to be accused of being "bandwagon Chiefs fans", me and G are at the top of the list. (peter griffin voice) Cracked Magazine. Really.

(Note: this entire road trip deserves a separate "classic" recap, now that I think of it ... although the recap of Matt Nathanson takes priority later today ...)

* November 16, 1998. at Chiefs 7, donkeys 30. The "Monday Night Meltdown" as some like to call it. The "shannon sharpe should have been f*cking killed on the field" game, as I like to call it. I did not come home for this one. The Chiefs entered at 4-5, the donkeys were 9-0. It was in essence Marty's last stand. And I had a friggin exam at 8am the next day. So I did the next best thing: I convinced Frank to join me in the house of the enemy, and watch this thing at the official broncos watching party ... at the Hooters in Arlington. From the "yup, Steve's a f*cking idiot" department ...

* November 16, 1997. at Chiefs 24, donkeys 22. I still tear up just thinking about this ending. To this day. (mitch holtgus voice, fighting back tears of joy) Pete ... Pete Stoyanovich! (losing it on air) Pete for President! Or the moment that will always resonate with any fan of this team:

(jim gray) do you think your kick saved the season?
(pete stoyanovich) I don't think (the kick) saved the season -- I don't think this season needed to be saved! (huge ovation from the 79,625, none of whom had left yet ...)
(jim gray) ok, Dick back to you.
(andre rison) I LOVE YOU MAN!!! (hugs Pete)
(dick enberg) I love you man! The feelings of nearly 80,000 here in Kansas City ...

Today's prediction is simple, really. Either we're going to lose in spectacular fashion, or win in spectacular fashion.

And I'm probably getting taken to the woodshed by Saints fans.

at Chiefs (+5 1/2) 24, Saints 22. I embrace the greatness, the potential, that this day holds. I believe the last three weeks, all close, heart breaking, last moment defeats, have built to this breakthrough victory.

And to any Saints fans thinking about throwing down with a face every hot chick visualizes in her most private of moments ... flash back to 30 some odd hours ago at the Bottleneck ...

(matt nathanson) Say after me! Better to be safe than sorry --
(right side of audience) Take On Me!
(left side of audience) Take On Me!
(right side of audience) Take Me On!
(left side of audience) Take On Me!
(whole audience) I'll Be Gone ...

(Sweet f*cking Jesus, I need a girl that loves me for what I am ... or at least a friend with benefits ...)

whatever i may think ... he is my president.

Its taken me 9 days to get around to posting this.

Let me state up front: I did not vote for Barack Obama. I know people who plead the "sanctity of the booth" and refuse to reveal who they back. That's b.s. If you believe in your candidate, you admit you backed them. I'm not going to say I agreed with Senator McCain on everything. Hell, I have no doubt I agree with President-elect Obama on far more than I agreed with Senator McCain on. But I backed the Senator from Arizona.

Having said that, and anyone can search this site and read my opinions of the election, whether it be the convention blogs, the major speech reactions and recaps, the debate blogs and recaps, my thoughts on any given day, its all there ... it has been suggested to me that I show more class, grace, and decorum than anyone in my party did in 2000, and embrace our President-elect and give him a chance.

I'm not willing to embrace him. But I'm willing to give him a chance. And here's a few initial reasons why I hope you'll share my sentiments. (More to come as we near a truly historic Inaugural. Again, as Keith Olbermann noted in his rant I linked to a couple posts ago -- for all you "don't redefine marriage" kooks, you do realize that Barry's parents COULD NOT HAVE MARRIED 40 years ago in over half the country because of your misguided "traditional definition of marriage". What an amazing, incredible nation we live in, to overcome the worst among us, and enact the best we have to offer. The fact that an African American overcame two women, in essence, to win this election, is such a testament to the strength of what this country is, you can't feel anything other than pride).

Oh, back to the point. 5 of them to begin with:

1. Because Senator Obama proved once and for all that Rush Limbaugh, and Sean Hannity, and Mike Church, and "The Great One", Mark Levin, are full of crap in one regard. Rush and company have claimed for years that us liberal Democrats have to camouflage ourselves, that we have to run as anything other than what we are, to win a national election. Barry hid NOTHING. He never denied for one second what his intentions were (unlike Bill Clinton). He never backed down from his left wing stances on social issues of the day (unlike John Kerry). He never came across as someone who refuses to engage in intelligent thought with the opposing side (unlike Al Gore). Senator Obama ran as a left-wing, anti-war, pro-socialism candidate ... and won a mandate for himself in the popular vote, and an electoral landslide the likes of which we haven't seen since Clinton ran for re-election in 1996.

2. Because the Courts are ours (aka, "the left's") for the rest of my lifetime now. Even if there isn't a single Supreme Court appointment (highly unlikely; the only President without one in my lifetime is Ford), even if the High Court itself remains unchanged, President Obama can pack the Circuit and District Courts with judges who understand that a document written 200 plus years ago needs to be adaptable to modern circumstances, within reason of course. For those of us who still have a D on the voter card mainly due to social issues, we can at least sleep easier at night.

3. Joe Biden. Any reader of this site knows I have a huge man crush on the guy. My goal in life is to shake that man's hand, buy him a beer, and have him say "thanks, pal or champ" in the next four years. God, I love Joe Biden. But Biden is more than a gaffe machine that makes me laugh continually. He's been dead on accurately right about Iraq since day one (invasion was justified, but holding the country together was stupid; surge was right but why the hell let Bush get away with lying about Mission Accomplished). Again, I Love Joe Biden!

More importantly, he'll be the voice of moderation in the Obama White House. Well, one of them. He'll keep Obama grounded in the center, like Gore held Clinton to the middle when his instincts took him far left.

4. Rahm Emanuel. I LOVED this pick. I actually breathed a heavy, heavy sigh of relief when President-elect Obama picked Emanuel as Chief of Staff. Is he partisan? Sure. Who cares? You just won a popular vote mandate (if Bush at 48.7 and 51.2 is a "mandate", Barry at 52.9 is a "mo fo mandate!"). Go partisan! And pick someone who signals three things with his arrival. (1) We're solidly behind Israel. (2) We ain't bowing to the religious right on anything, despite point one. And (3) We ain't bowing to the lunatic left on anything either. Great pick.

5. (curtis blow voice) we playin' bask ... et ... ball ... we playin' bask ... et ... ball ... The guy is a hoops addict! Granted, he's a Bulls fan, which as a reformed Knicks kook and now Bucks backer, should disgust me ... but really. Set aside your political thoughts for a moment. How effing AWESOME would it be to play a pickup game with President-elect Obama? And how effing AWESOME is it that we have a guy in the Oval Office that actually knows that "pick up game" refers to hoops, not wars or whores! (rimshot!)

I wish President-elect Obama the best. I truly hope and pray he sets the standard for the next generation as to what a President should be. I hope someday his respect level among the American public matches what we witnessed for President Reagan's funeral processional.

I fear we're in for the worst four years of our lives ...

the week eleven non-chiefs predictions

The Chiefs pick coming tomorrow.

Last Week SU: 9-5-0
Season to Date SU: 75-67-0

Last Week ATS: 6-8-0
Season to Date ATS: 70-71-1

Last Week Upset / Week: winner!
Season to Date Upset / Week: 3-7-0
This Week's Upset / Week: Jaguars (+3) over Titans. If my predicted Super Bowl champ intends to make themselves a factor in January, they can start by getting back to .500 and beating the best team in the AFC at home ...

The Non-Chiefs Prognostications:

* Jets (+3 1/2) 31, at Patriots 13.
* broncos (+5 1/2) 34, at Falcons 31.
* at Dolphins (-10 1/2) 24, raiders 0.
* at Giants (-6 1/2) 24, Ravens 10.
* at Colts 24, Texans (+8 1/2) 20.
* at Jaguars (+3) 27, Titans 17.
* at Packers 24, Bears (+3 1/2) 21.
* Eagles (-9 1/2) 45, at Bengals 3.
* at Panthers (-14) 45, Lions 0.
* at Bucs 28, Vikings (+4) 27.
* Rams (+6) 3, at 49ers 0.
* at Seahawks (+2 1/2) 20, Cardinals 17.
* at Steelers (-4 1/2) 31, Chargers 10.
* at Redskins (+2 1/2) 26, Cowboys 21.
* at Bills (-4 1/2) 37, Browns 13.

Coming later, the Chiefs pick. (If you had "Steve wanted to get the Thursday night pick in on time, but still has no clue who he's taking between the Chiefs and Saints" in the "why the Chiefs pick is delayed" pool, congratulations, you're a winner ...)

amen, ko. a friggin men.

sk: this might be the first time I have agreed with Keith Olbermann in a long, long time. So give him a read and a listen.

(And I will refrain from my anti-Republican, anti-common sense rant for now ...)

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27650743/

bucks party, roadie thoughts?

I thought last Friday was a solid success. I hope all my fellow Buck You's! (unofficial nickname at this point) felt the same.

So, looking at the schedule, I figure we'll have 6 to 8 more of these things. We can do party two over here after work again in a couple weeks (options upcoming), or we can host elsewhere with a Time Warner hookup (my customer service provider I spoke to tonight, swears if I just plug one of our boxes in, it'll work with your cable line).

Party three, I'd like to host here while the lovely, beautiful, "every person in the 9330 misses her", when the incredible Megan is home for Christmas. I know she's met Brent and Meagan (at 311 and Snoop) ... but Ashley and Gregg, you'd love her. Hell, I love her ... wait, that's (newsweek's evan thomas describing obama today) that's "creepy". I mean, I love her as a friend. There, that's not as "creepy". :) Seriously, y'all'd get along really great. I hope we can make that happen in later December.

(Hope all is good in Germany. And hope you're still here somehow, someway, on January 21st at 8CT when "Lost" premieres, it'll never be the same without downing the Skyy Vodka bottle without ya ...)

So, here goes.

For party number two, I see three solid dates:

1. Wed Nov 26th vs Atlanta, 6pm. Day before Thanksgiving Holiday. Drawback is that some folks are likely going out of town, although I know I'm not, my brother is hosting the holiday this year (poor guy, no wonder I'm on the hook for "a case of beer and a couple boxes of wine please").

2. Sat Nov 29th vs Cleveland, 8pm. Its KU/MU Day at Arrowhead, so we'll already be linked up. (Although at least half of us will be p*ssed off when that game is done). Since KU/MU kicks off early, this is doable ... especially since we live 10 minutes from the Sports Complex.

3. Fri Dec 5th vs Charlotte. Awful game, but its the last doable game in the next couple weeks if you build in for the alcohol to be consumed.

Let me know your thoughts.

For party number three, with hopefully Megan in attendance, we'll work that out when she's home. There are a few dates that we can make this work on the schedule.

For the proposed roadie ... there's only one date / weekend I'm looking at right now, and Gregg signed off on it.

(My way of saying, at least a true "old school" road trip will occur for the first time since ... uuh ... I'm thinking Jayhawks / Cyclones hoops in early 2006 ...)

President's Day Weekend! Bucks! Cavs! Ridnour! LBJ! Only in ... Milwaukee!!!

We'd leave Thursday Feb 19th after work. Probably find a cheap ass motel in Des Moines or the Quad Cities to crash in overnight. Get going that Friday morning ... to catch the Bucks vs Cavaliers that Friday Night at 7:30. I'd have to build in a round or two with the family Saturday ... plus build in a tour of a couple local breweries (Lakefront, Point, possibly Miller).

(steve note: if we want to build in the 90 some odd minutes to Green Bay, and 90 some odd minutes back, into the Saturday schedule ... I'm perfectly cool with that ... I got screwed out of my Lambeau experience earlier this year, I'm willing to forego putting the glove on the Lakefront conveyor belt and singing the "Laverne and Shirley" theme song to do a Lambeau Leap ...)

Then we head back home Sunday (its an 8 1/2 hour drive if you go the speed limit and only stop to pee and gas up ... and I made it in 7:42 last January. Just sayin'. Give Dusty the wheel). And you'll still have Monday off as a holiday to recover.

Again, post or let me know your thoughts. Tough game tonight at "The Q", Bucks hung tough, but when Bogut got his 5th foul late in the 4th, LBJ just abused Alexander to put the game away. Huge game tomorrow night at the Bradley Center against reeling San Antonio, who'll be flying in from Texas late tonight after facing the Knicks. Win this one, then a very winnable roadie at Memphis on Friday, and you're back to .500 at 5-5 before hosting Boston Saturday night.

the latest song i'm digging ...

I know, I know ... with a huge group of us headed to Matt Nathanson on Friday, I should be focused in on his earlier stuff. And "Answering Machine" is an awesome effort, I've probably hit rewind about 15 times already on my mp3 player this week listening to it.

But the song I currently have programmed on about 5 different channels on the Sirius receiver, that I set on "repeat" whenever it pops up ... is "Shattered" by OAR.

"Love and Memories" by OAR is a great song as well, from a couple years ago. But this ... holy Lord. Rivermaster Heath, put this damned thing on the Floatapalooza 3.0 (I believe that's the version we'll be up to come summer 2009 ...)

For the cheap among us, the Youtube! link (and note: the video is pretty kick ass, unlike most songs I love): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzwAXlWkk3Y

And the lyrics, because as I "gracefully age", I'm beginning to agree with Heath that the lyrics matter as much as, if not more than, the actual sound of the, uuh, song ... (mayor west voice) can we confirm this? (lab guy) yes sir. the bird is equal to, or greater than, the word! (mayor west voice) Good Lord! ...:

In a way, I need a change
From this burnout scene
Another time, another town
Another everything
But it's always back to you

Stumble out, in the night
From the pouring rain
Made the block, sat and thought
There's more I need
It's always back to you

But I'm good without ya
Yeah, I'm good without you
Yeah, yeah, yeah

How many times can I break till I shatter?
Over the line can't define what I'm after
I always turn the car around
Give me a break let me make my own pattern
All that it takes is some time but I'm shattered
I always turn the car around

I had no idea that the night
Would take so damn long
Took it out, on the street
While the rain still falls
Push me back to you

But I'm good without ya
Yeah, I'm good without you
Yeah, yeah, yeah

How many times can I break till I shatter?
Over the line can't define what I'm after
I always turn the car around
Give me a break let me make my own pattern
All that it takes is some time but I'm shattered
I always turn the car around

Give it up, give it up, baby
Give it up, give it up, now
Now

How many times can I break till I shatter?
Over the line can't define what I'm after
I always turn the car around
All that I feel is the realness I'm faking
Taking my time but it's time that I'm wasting
Always turn the car around

How many times can I break till I shatter?
Over the line can't define what I'm after
I always turn the car around

Don't wanna turn that car around
I gotta turn this thing around

Available on ITunes for $.99. I'll do some research to see when OAR is here next. I hope we get as solid of a turnout for this pick as we're getting for Matt Nathanson in 72 hours ...

so here's the plea ...

There have been a lot of changes to what we have known the "Arrowhead Experience" to be over the last few seasons.

We have lost loved ones, both due to tragic passings, and tragic marriages. We have split into different tailgating camps.

We have seen the on field product transform itself time and time again. From dominant offense, to dominant team, huge disappointment, to "luckiest team alive" with the Immaculate Trifecta, as Bob Gretz phrased the New Year's Eve miracle two years ago ... to what we are today -- a young, rebuilding, genuinely entertaining, visibly improving team that is still at least a year, probably two, away from being a viable threat.

(Words I would not have written three weeks ago. But even me, the most frustrated of all fans, even I have to admit -- when you go on the road to the AFC East leading Jets and have the ball with a shot to win, when you host the NFC South front running Bucs, and have the ball with a shot to win, and you hit the road against the one-game-back Chargers, and have the ball with a shot to win ... you can't argue this team isn't entertaining. Even if they keep finding new ways to lose ...)

Anyways, my point is this. I swore at the beginning of this season, I would not beg anyone to show up for any game other than denver. I think, for the most part, I've kept my promise. No "fire up the fanbase speeches", no "show up if you're a real fan" emails. No passionate pep talks, no lengthy discussions on why we're going to win, just simple, stick to the point commentary that has been anything but complimentary of these guys.

(Again, save for denver. That one is special to me).

Like I said, I've kept my promise.

Until Sunday.

Because Sunday, the Chiefs universe, the tailgating world, the "core" as I know it when it comes to One Arrowhead Drive ... the center no longer holds.

The Bus Man isn't coming.

I don't want to get into too much detail, partly because I don't think its right, but mostly because I fear for what lies ahead. If you remember the root cause of what caused Randy's downward spiral four years ago, history is tragically repeating itself. The Bus Man is having surgery on Thursday in an attempt to stave off the same physical situation going from bad to horrid.

I got a call last Tuesday, asking if I would be willing to fill in as "The Bus Man" this Sunday for the Saints game. To keep at least one tradition alive. Even if the Tradition Holder can't be there.

I have rarely been as honored in my life as I was to be asked. Then, reality set in.

I had never in my life driven a stick shift vehicle before yesterday. My lack of skill in that department has resulted in some embarrassing moments, like having to ask the neighbor to back Brent's car up because neither Gregg nor I knew how to do it ... to conning Dusty's mom that "sure, Steve can drive us home" in Dusty's car at the summer company picnic this year. (Note to Dusty's mom: ANY time the phrase "sure, Steve's good to drive" is involved, its a scam. Its a friggin scam. Don't believe it).

Anyways, yesterday, I got a crash course in driving a manual transmission. I got some pointers and practice piloting the tailgating bus. I think I'm ready.

My question, my plea, my heartfelt request, is this:

Will you join me?

I know I put far, far too much emphasis on symbolism, on tradition, on things that nobody else finds even remotely amusing or interesting, save for maybe Gregg and occasionally Damien if he's bored enough. (And sometimes Dusty if he's in, uuh, Dustyland). And I know that nobody looks to the past more than me, nobody I know of studies history, no matter how pointless said history seems to be, and treasures it, like I do.

I hope Sunday (and likely next week as well against Buffalo) is an aberration, a temporary suspension of the tailgating glory and greatness and madness that has gotten us into a couple Price Chopper commercials, has won us the Tailgaters of the Game twice (including less than a month ago), and has led to so many great memories and friendships, which is what really counts when its all said and done. I hope Sunday is a temporary speed bump. I pray its just a temporary suspension of play.

I fear Sunday is the final transition from the founding generation of tailgating, to us, the heirs.

Because let's face it. For the first time ever ... the kids are running the show.

Hence this week's special plea. If this is our first shot at running things, let's do this right.

I hope you'll make the personal sacrifice to get up early, load the coolers, bundle up tight (it'll be a little "nipsey russell" out there ...) meet up and head out as one on the tailgating bus. To stake our claim. Just like Randy and Nancy and Jasson, and Gregg and Gordon did 20 years ago, to kick this thing we call "The Arrowhead Experience" off ... its our turn now to plant the flag in the ground, and ensure we keep this thing going for another 20 years.

Sunday, I believe the page sadly turns to its next chapter. My plea is let's do this right. If you love this team, be there! What more reason do you need, other than to be a part of establishing history as we'll know it for the next generation, our generation of Chiefs fans and tailgaters?

If you need a place to crash Saturday night to ensure you can make it, we've got room over here (and our Bucks vs the Celtics!)

The more things change, the more I sometimes wish they could stay the same. Well fellow Chiefs fans, "Buck You's" ... here's our chance. We can start the next 20 years of tailgating excellence ... by continuing to do what's made the last 20 years so great.

I'll close the initial plea (yup, the picks are returning to the traditional fire-us-up speech format, for one week only ...) with this:

The last two years, some of us have had a "Restore the Tradition" tailgate at our old spot on the Hill. Most everyone who reads this, no matter how infrequently, has partied it up at the Crosswalk to G in Lot N with us. That was Tradition as we knew it.

Sunday, let's "Sustain the Tradition". Let's show up, as one. Do it for me, if only because it'll make for a tremendous post come Sunday night. Do it for yourselves, because you love this team. Do it because you've tailgated with us before, you enjoyed it, and you want to come back for more.

Most of all, do it for The Bus Man. All of us have had a beer or three with that guy at some point. Most of us have enjoyed the pool on a hot Sunday afternoon. Some of us have had the distinct privilege of getting to call him "friend". "Pal". Even fewer of us view him like a second father.

I'm in that select crew. I pray that this is a temporary setback, that come the Chargers game to open December, he's back behind the wheel, endangering lives by charging down Sterling at 50 plus mph at 6:30 in the morning while nursing a Johnny Walker on the rocks.

Until that time arrives, it falls on me. I literally shook, my hands were shaking, as I shifted from R to 1 to 2 to 3 to 4 driving the Beast around yesterday. The tradition, the history that vehicle holds ... to be entrusted with maintaining it, is almost overwhelming. Hell, who am I kidding, its me on a stick shift. It is overwhelming.

But I hope it also overwhelms you, to help me carry on the greatest tradition we know. Chiefs football. As its been for 20 years. As I hope it continues to be for 20 more. At least. (Although let's be fair, 20 only puts Ayden at "legal" drinking age. We all know he'll be bonging out there with us by 16 ... 17 at the latest ...)

If this is our first time running the show, let's make it count.

Let's do this up right. Let's have a Beast full of diehard, half baked, half buzzed Chiefs fans ready to start the next 20 years off right: with a helluva pregame party, a helluva postgame celebration, and a Chiefs victory!

(more pleas to come later this week ... because this is personal to me ... and its my site dammit ... at least until some folks from charter or two rivers show up on the door and get me the mental help i need ...)

bucks party number one! the recap ...

First, allow me to apologize in advance ... a few of us were pretty bombed by the time this thing was done. Which I guess makes us (d voice) "milwaukeean in nature". So I'm sure I'm going to forget some funny details. So ... that's what the comments section is for.

Let's do this.

* I got home around 3:30 to begin the final cleanup of the house to at least make it semi-presentable. I'd forgotten how much cleaning the place from top to bottom sucks.

* Sadly, I did not score a date from "reputable singles site" for this thing. Although from the way things unfolded, you wouldn't have known it ...

* Dusty got home around 4:30, armed with a new lamp, a Ne-Yo cd, and a Matt Nathanson Live cd to set the pregame mood. Solid choices all around.

* Damien and Mallory arrived first, around 5:30. They had $50 plus in "foo foo cheeses", plus a few of Milwaukee's finest products -- PBR and the Beast. Plus Mallory had some vodka and Dr Pepper concoction that was really good ... but really potent ...

* I was actually working when they arrived. Working. At home. At 5:30 on a Friday night, when we're hosting a party. (peter griffin voice) Cracked Magazine.

* I believe Gregg and Ashley were next, although it might have been Brent and Meagan. They both arrived around the same time.

* After a nice 30, 40 minute pregame conversation over some solid alcoholic beverages and Ne-Yo's latest efforts, it was game time.

* Mike Gorman! Tommy Heinsolm! Yup, we got the Celtics broadcast! No Bob "Beer" Cousy though, that was a shame.

* Bucks got off to a rock solid start. Led by 9 after one.

* The chicken was really good. Even if I didn't eat any until the next day, but once I started, (ne-yo voice) I just can't stop, I just can't stop ...

* About midway through the 2nd quarter, it was time to start taking some pics:


(left to right: gregg, ashley, meagan, mallory, me, brent, damien. not pictured: dusty. photo: brent's camera).

* OK, round two:


(left to right: gregg, ashley, meagan, mallory, me, brent, damien. again not pictured: dusty. photo: brent's camera).

(steve note: Gregg holding a beer in both pics ... and me NOT holding anything alcoholic in nature? The world has truly gone mad. Back to the recap ...)

* Bucks led by 5 at halftime if I remember right. Which led into a hysterical discussion on "Family Guy", followed by me demanding we play the "dignified cripple" episode that caused us to miss the first 5 minutes of the 3rd quarter. Not my finest hour.

* this round of drunken entertainment (as the Bucks were collapsing on the court), led to a hilarious recap of last week's package incident at the KU game with me and Brent's mom. Once again, my life exists for the entertainment of others. Somehow, I'm coming to grips with this.

* but the funniest moment of the night, at least to me: after we go off about the whole "package" deal, there, in the middle of the rug, is Duke the Wonder Dog, uuh, licking his package. After someone cracked the obligatory joke, the house just came down. Dusty would up snorting the Relax out of his nose. I was in tears. As were a lot of other people.

* our first casualty of the night? That would sadly be our Bucks, who lost 101-89. Props to Damien, who predicted a 103-89 final at halftime. Pretty damned close.

* our second casualty of the night? My dignity, which lost its last shred at about 9:30 when the first drinking game of the night began, focused on a part of my body being (2008-2009 bucks slogan voice) ready to rise.

* our third casualty of the night? Mallory, shortly after the above pic was taken, off to pass out in Dusty's room. And eventually in the guest room.

* We still don't have a name for the group. Apparently "Buck-a-Roos" isn't as funny as I find it. Right now the "Buck You's" is the front runner but I know we can do better. Speaking of doing better ...

* a big "Buck You" to nba.com for their p*ss poor shipping practices. To recap: I ordered my Luke Ridnour player t-shirt, plus an Oscar Robertson throwback t-shirt, last Saturday. I paid for 3-5 business day express shipping. At the absolute latest, I should have received my package no later than the day of the first party. As of the start of this post, it is still sitting in a UPS facility in Earth City, MO. Absolutely effing ridiculous. nba.com is getting a very nasty email out of me once said package arrives. No sense sending it now, only to have a "screw Steve, hold his package" email sent to Earth City, MO by David Stern and crew.

* speaking of packages, we got one from the Bucks front office! Full of schedules, a magnet, a pen, all kinds of good stuff. Thank you Milwaukee Bucks for actually believing you have fans in KC!

* Damien's folks showed up! We should invite them to join the "Buck You's", or "Buck-a-Roos" or "Who Gives a Buck" crew.

* On second thought, should we just hijack the "Outback Steakhouse" dj phrase and edit it slightly to "Its Just the Bucks, So What the F*ck!" as our group name? I mean, think about it. It incorporates the team name. It notes how pathetic the franchise has been. And it incorporates quality adult entertainment into the mix. (sports guy voice) done and done.

* D's folks clocked out about 12:15am. Probably good Mallory was already passed out. Gregg, Ash, Brent and Meagan left shortly afterwards. Dusty, me and Damien stayed up a while longer. Finally about 1am, a bong appeared. We'll leave it at that.

* I clocked out for the night about 1:15.

* I woke up the next morning about 8:30. D and Mallory passed out in the guest room, Dusty passed out in his room. After doing the pile of dishes, off to watch College Gameday.

* Sometime betwen 9:30 and 10, everyone else woke up. Probably because after 20 months in this house, I still can't close the damned dishwasher door without pounding it a couple times. (everyone joking at steve voice) that's the only thing you're pounding pal (rimshot!)

* If you had 10:12am in the "Steve gets back on the drinkin' wagon" pool for Saturday, congratulations, you're a winner! Mallory made me one of the drinks that caused her to prematurely leave the party. After having that ... I can see why she didn't last past 10pm. Strong, but good.

* D took off for the MU / KSU game around 11. Mallory left at the same time. And with that, Bucks Party Numero Uno was officially done. Hopefully round two is as much fun. Oh, and we actually win, because other than that, this party rocked.

Once I get picks from D, I'll add them on here. Until the next party, remember: we're Ready to Rise!