Well, here we are. We didn't get wiped out by The Rapture that was supposed to go down on 12/21/12, and the Blog is almost a year old. For me, personally, I am sooooo glad 2012 is finishing up. I did not have a wonderful year. I left my old band, and subsequently took a break from music. In March, I had to have an emergency gallbladder removal surgery, and in the last several months, I've had to deal with a serious illness in my family. A few cool things did take place this year however. I made some new friends, started this little blog that you are reading, attended my 500th live sporting event, and re-modeled my apartment. A lot of wild and stupid shit happened too, Such as me recently cracking my front tooth outside of a bar and me almost sleeping with a chick with braces
As far as the world around us, well, there was plenty of bullshit to keep us busy. From Television and Media garbage like Honey Boo Boo, Gangnam Style and 50 Shades of Gray (Bored) to the Election (zzzzzz....) Even sports was crazy this year with the NHL Lockout, the Saints Bounty Scandal and the Replacement Refs in the NFL
Basically, 2012 was a reflective year. A year full of experiences to learn from and use to better ourselves in the future ahead.
Anyways, I want to thank every last single person who has viewed this Blog in 2012. What started as a drunken facebook rant and a nifty idea from a couple of my friends has turned into my soapbox which, based on your responses, have made you laugh, pissed you off, and most importantly, made you think for a little bit. I am happy that I can contribute to your day with the crazy thoughts in my head.
So, raise a glass of something strong and let's toast 2012 goodbye, and to an awesome 2013 ahead.
Have a Happy, Safe and Epic New Year. And like I always remind you, Keep your genitals out of harm's way.
Alex B. Smith
Courtside Seats to Hell
December 28, 2012
December 12, 2012
Grab Bag #17: Catfish, Pink Snapper, and Swordfish
It's only fitting that I fell asleep talking to a friend about Seafood, and then I wake up to this shit:
* So, MTV (The Channel Formerly Known as "Music Television") has a new reality show out called Catfish. As you know, I'm 23 going on 46 so I get lost in some of these terms. I didn't know that Catfish is a term for people who make fake profiles on Facebook or Twitter or whatever social media site you prefer, and then bait people into having online relationships with them,
In Episode 1 (according to Wikipedia, there will be 12 of these. holy fuck) we have a guy from Georgia who has been talking to a girl named Abigail (Abby) from Biloxi, Miss. They have chatted on Facebook for over a year and have talked on the phone, but haven't met each other. They have had some hardcore messages like (OMG I Luv U Foreverrrrrrr!!! <3 Marry Meeee" kinda shit) But when Georgia dude wanted to meet the love of his life, she had an "Unexpected Family Emergency" come up. (Women are real good for pulling that shit.. Just saying) and so he contacted this show to finally get to meet Abby, who according to her Facebook profile, is a dainty looking slim blonde gal. Fairly easy on the eyes. They chat, he drops the deal that there's this MTV show, I wanna meet ya, blah blah blah.
So she kinda tries to duck the meeting but agrees anyway. So now Georgia dude (Jarrod is his name, just remembered that) goes to Biloxi to meet Abby. They pull up to what looks like a fucking mini barn or an old slave quarters and knock on thestable Front Door and there's no answer. Walk around to the side and there is a brunette standing outside, Not Abby. It's Melissa. The Real Person Jarrod was talking to! It's like the 1-900 Phone Sex Bait and Switch for the 21st Century! Now don't get me wrong, the fact that Melissa isn't like Abby in the photo sense but the fact that she fucking lied to him about EVERYTHING!!! And then blamed it on her self-esteem issues. Um, Lady do you realise this is fucking fraud and could have gotten you into some serious trouble. If you can't face someone then work that issue out on your time, now you dragged this guy's heart through babyshit because you can't deal with yourself? you selfish stupid bitch. And of course she keeps saying, "But I do care about him" The Fuck You Do! You were another person for a year plus and didn't once ever think this shit would hit the fan.
I have done online dating, and I am against it. I believe people should stop being such fucking introverts and go meet people when they go outside. But for Tebow's sake, You can possibly think this catfish shit will work if you try it. Just dumb. Get a life.
* Increepy Celebrity news, Anne Hathaway (drool) is in the film adaptation of Les Miserables, and at the Red Carpet Premier, not only was she wearing this hot bondage style leather wraparound kinda dress but she left the dessert tray off the pie if you know what I mean, Here's the Safe for Work version (E-mail courtsideseatstohell@gmail.com if you wanna see the other one)
That's all for now. Have a Swimmingly awesome Hump Day today!
* So, MTV (The Channel Formerly Known as "Music Television") has a new reality show out called Catfish. As you know, I'm 23 going on 46 so I get lost in some of these terms. I didn't know that Catfish is a term for people who make fake profiles on Facebook or Twitter or whatever social media site you prefer, and then bait people into having online relationships with them,
In Episode 1 (according to Wikipedia, there will be 12 of these. holy fuck) we have a guy from Georgia who has been talking to a girl named Abigail (Abby) from Biloxi, Miss. They have chatted on Facebook for over a year and have talked on the phone, but haven't met each other. They have had some hardcore messages like (OMG I Luv U Foreverrrrrrr!!! <3 Marry Meeee" kinda shit) But when Georgia dude wanted to meet the love of his life, she had an "Unexpected Family Emergency" come up. (Women are real good for pulling that shit.. Just saying) and so he contacted this show to finally get to meet Abby, who according to her Facebook profile, is a dainty looking slim blonde gal. Fairly easy on the eyes. They chat, he drops the deal that there's this MTV show, I wanna meet ya, blah blah blah.
So she kinda tries to duck the meeting but agrees anyway. So now Georgia dude (Jarrod is his name, just remembered that) goes to Biloxi to meet Abby. They pull up to what looks like a fucking mini barn or an old slave quarters and knock on the
I have done online dating, and I am against it. I believe people should stop being such fucking introverts and go meet people when they go outside. But for Tebow's sake, You can possibly think this catfish shit will work if you try it. Just dumb. Get a life.
* In
To be honest, It wasn't as bad as other car shots we've seen. I could do a slideshow but most of us are reading this at work.
* I'm making Swordfish tonight, Here's the recipe I will be using for Ponzu Sauce:
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon sweet rice wine
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Cover and chill.
That's all for now. Have a Swimmingly awesome Hump Day today!
December 11, 2012
Why Northern Illinois Going to the Orange Bowl is Awesome
This New Year's Day, I will be proudly watching my favorite College Football team, the Northern Illinois University Huskies play Florida State on ESPN in the Orange Bowl. Just typing that sentence is crazy and awesome because of all of the things that happened to lead up to this game.
For me, this story starts in 1997. I remember being in my room, watching college football on a Saturday when my mom walked in and telling me what she thought was good news. My god-cousin, Vince Thompson, was getting a full ride to NIU. I remember feeling my face drop and if I was swearing back then, I'm sure the first words out of my mouth would have been "You gotta be fucking kidding, right?" but in '97, the first words I uttered was, "They Suck!"
Vince was a multi-sport star athlete and top student at St. Rita High School in Chicago, A Catholic League powerhouse for football (and the shithole I would end up stuck in a decade later) With his great grades and even better on-field numbers, I thought for sure he was a shoe-in to go to either Northwestern or Purdue (which made since because he was into engineering as well) or any other Big 10 or even Big East schools (When the Big East had decent football programs like Syracuse and Miami)
I found out later that he went to Northern for 2 reasons, It was a full ride and he was rejected from Northwestern and Purdue as far as athletic scholarships due to his size (As a Cornerback/Wide Reciever and Return man, he was only 5'7" and 155, very short and small for a D-Back going up against wideouts 6'2" and up)
Despite this, it was still going to be cool to finally get to go see some Division 1-A college football live. Me and my folks and my god-uncle and his wife would load our cars up with food, pop and booze and make the near 3-hour trip to DeKalb and watch the Huskies, well, Pretty much get their asses kicked every home game the first years in 98 and 99 (they were 0-11 in 1997) But this team started showing small improvements, They had some solid players such as WR P.J. Fleck (Who ended up having a cup of coffee with the 49ers for a year) and O-Lineman Ryan Diem (Who went on to be a Super Bowl Champ with the Colts) They also had a power run game led by Thomas Hammock, who would have been a serviceable back on Sundays had he not had a heart condition that ended his career. My Cousin wasn't too bad either, Leading the Mid-American Conference one season with 5 Interceptions and was mentioned as a player to watch out for in 2002 for the Nagurski Award.
The Huskies had started to win a few games here and there along the way, and once Vince graduated from NIU in '03, they had a blueprint to draw with for the future. Power running football with a solid defense that can make key stops and takeaways. They made a big jump and splash in 2003, beating Maryland at home in OT on regional TV, then beating ranked Alabama on the road (No easy task the last 20 years) and also beating Iowa State. It was weird to finally see NIU games on TV every other weekend and hear ESPN mention them in the polls and on broadcasts. They even cracked the bottom of this newfangled system they call the Bowl Championship Series for a week. Then they lost some conference games late and that was the end of it. The 2003 team went 10-2 and didn't even get invited to a bowl game. All of the hard work and dedication those men put in went for nought.
However, Under the leadership of Coach Joe Novak, this club kept winning and eventually made it into some mid-level bowl games. They were turning out some key players too such as Running Backs Garrett Wolfe and Michael Turner, both having good careers in the NFL. They hit a bump in the road and had a bad year in 2007 and Novak decided it was time for a change. He retired and the team signed long time successful coach at Southern Illinois, Jerry Kill.
J. Kill made a significant impact right off the bat in DeKalb. They made it to 3 straight bowl games and was now mentioned year after year in the Chicagoland area right along with the Northwestern's and Illinois's of the state. After dropping the 2010 MAC Title game, and 2 weeks before a bowl bid, Jerry Kill took off and left to go to Minnesota (Big mistake on his part and the Gophers part) and ended up signing coach Dave Doeren to head the team.
Doeren finally did what J.Kill couldn't and Joe Novak never could have imagined in 2 seasons. NIU finally won the MAC Championship Game last season, beating Ohio on a last second field goal. They finished 11-3 and won another bowl game. This season, with the arm and legs of QB Jordan Lynch, The Huskies, after dropping a close game against Iowa at Soldier Field, went on an absolute assault, crushing everyone the rest of their season, winning a second straight MAC Title, and because of how bad a ton of big schools were this year along with good programs facing bowl bans, The Dog finally got it's shot. Northern Illinois is about to play a meaningful New Year's Day Bowl Game versus a big conference school.
So while Kirk Herbstreit can be a conceited prick and think that this game is a "Joke" match-up, the System that he and so many of these brainless assholes in college football thinks works to pick a National Champion, is why NIU is in the Orange Bowl. But in reality, it's way more than that. It was the work of Tons of Players, Coaches and Staff from the last 15-16 seasons that made this happen. Guys who went un-noticed and never made a dent in any draft talks, Guys like Doug Free, Dan Sheldon, Vinson Renyolds, Steve Azar, Chandler Harnish, Benji Peacock, Chris Finlen, Marlon Rucker, Darrell Hill and Vince Thompson. Guys who weren't exactly Blue-Chip recruits or 1st Round Picks, but men who played their hearts out and transformed a shitty football program at a western suburban college outside of Chicago, into a school that could change the landscape of midwestern football in the 21st Century. This bowl game is for those guys who worked and bled and made strides but never made it this far. And while my God-Uncle is no longer here on earth with us, I know he'll be looking down in Miami January 1st, wearing his Huskie fleece pullover, watching what none of us ever thought would happen back in 1997.
For me, this story starts in 1997. I remember being in my room, watching college football on a Saturday when my mom walked in and telling me what she thought was good news. My god-cousin, Vince Thompson, was getting a full ride to NIU. I remember feeling my face drop and if I was swearing back then, I'm sure the first words out of my mouth would have been "You gotta be fucking kidding, right?" but in '97, the first words I uttered was, "They Suck!"
Vince was a multi-sport star athlete and top student at St. Rita High School in Chicago, A Catholic League powerhouse for football (and the shithole I would end up stuck in a decade later) With his great grades and even better on-field numbers, I thought for sure he was a shoe-in to go to either Northwestern or Purdue (which made since because he was into engineering as well) or any other Big 10 or even Big East schools (When the Big East had decent football programs like Syracuse and Miami)
I found out later that he went to Northern for 2 reasons, It was a full ride and he was rejected from Northwestern and Purdue as far as athletic scholarships due to his size (As a Cornerback/Wide Reciever and Return man, he was only 5'7" and 155, very short and small for a D-Back going up against wideouts 6'2" and up)
Despite this, it was still going to be cool to finally get to go see some Division 1-A college football live. Me and my folks and my god-uncle and his wife would load our cars up with food, pop and booze and make the near 3-hour trip to DeKalb and watch the Huskies, well, Pretty much get their asses kicked every home game the first years in 98 and 99 (they were 0-11 in 1997) But this team started showing small improvements, They had some solid players such as WR P.J. Fleck (Who ended up having a cup of coffee with the 49ers for a year) and O-Lineman Ryan Diem (Who went on to be a Super Bowl Champ with the Colts) They also had a power run game led by Thomas Hammock, who would have been a serviceable back on Sundays had he not had a heart condition that ended his career. My Cousin wasn't too bad either, Leading the Mid-American Conference one season with 5 Interceptions and was mentioned as a player to watch out for in 2002 for the Nagurski Award.
The Huskies had started to win a few games here and there along the way, and once Vince graduated from NIU in '03, they had a blueprint to draw with for the future. Power running football with a solid defense that can make key stops and takeaways. They made a big jump and splash in 2003, beating Maryland at home in OT on regional TV, then beating ranked Alabama on the road (No easy task the last 20 years) and also beating Iowa State. It was weird to finally see NIU games on TV every other weekend and hear ESPN mention them in the polls and on broadcasts. They even cracked the bottom of this newfangled system they call the Bowl Championship Series for a week. Then they lost some conference games late and that was the end of it. The 2003 team went 10-2 and didn't even get invited to a bowl game. All of the hard work and dedication those men put in went for nought.
However, Under the leadership of Coach Joe Novak, this club kept winning and eventually made it into some mid-level bowl games. They were turning out some key players too such as Running Backs Garrett Wolfe and Michael Turner, both having good careers in the NFL. They hit a bump in the road and had a bad year in 2007 and Novak decided it was time for a change. He retired and the team signed long time successful coach at Southern Illinois, Jerry Kill.
J. Kill made a significant impact right off the bat in DeKalb. They made it to 3 straight bowl games and was now mentioned year after year in the Chicagoland area right along with the Northwestern's and Illinois's of the state. After dropping the 2010 MAC Title game, and 2 weeks before a bowl bid, Jerry Kill took off and left to go to Minnesota (Big mistake on his part and the Gophers part) and ended up signing coach Dave Doeren to head the team.
Doeren finally did what J.Kill couldn't and Joe Novak never could have imagined in 2 seasons. NIU finally won the MAC Championship Game last season, beating Ohio on a last second field goal. They finished 11-3 and won another bowl game. This season, with the arm and legs of QB Jordan Lynch, The Huskies, after dropping a close game against Iowa at Soldier Field, went on an absolute assault, crushing everyone the rest of their season, winning a second straight MAC Title, and because of how bad a ton of big schools were this year along with good programs facing bowl bans, The Dog finally got it's shot. Northern Illinois is about to play a meaningful New Year's Day Bowl Game versus a big conference school.
So while Kirk Herbstreit can be a conceited prick and think that this game is a "Joke" match-up, the System that he and so many of these brainless assholes in college football thinks works to pick a National Champion, is why NIU is in the Orange Bowl. But in reality, it's way more than that. It was the work of Tons of Players, Coaches and Staff from the last 15-16 seasons that made this happen. Guys who went un-noticed and never made a dent in any draft talks, Guys like Doug Free, Dan Sheldon, Vinson Renyolds, Steve Azar, Chandler Harnish, Benji Peacock, Chris Finlen, Marlon Rucker, Darrell Hill and Vince Thompson. Guys who weren't exactly Blue-Chip recruits or 1st Round Picks, but men who played their hearts out and transformed a shitty football program at a western suburban college outside of Chicago, into a school that could change the landscape of midwestern football in the 21st Century. This bowl game is for those guys who worked and bled and made strides but never made it this far. And while my God-Uncle is no longer here on earth with us, I know he'll be looking down in Miami January 1st, wearing his Huskie fleece pullover, watching what none of us ever thought would happen back in 1997.
December 7, 2012
Grab Bag #16: Boxing, Booze and Broads. Yeah. I like that combo.
* This Saturday, Boxing Great Manny Pacquiao is facing Juan Manuel Marquez for the 4th time in their epic rivalry. This clash for modern boxing fans is our answer to the throwback slugfests of Sugar Ray Leonard vs Roberto Duran or Arturo Gatti vs Mickey Ward. This will be a fight to watch. If you aren't into boxing, you should start watching with this fight. Or check out this cool video. And this video
* Holiday time is upon us, and you're probably gonna go home to see family or invite family over. And 9.9 out of 10 families are fucking crazy, Here's something to ease the insanity (maybe)
*Rangpur Rickey
- 2 Shots Tanqueray Rangpur (Lime) Gin
- 1 ounce Lime Juice
- 1/ 2 ounce simple syrup
- dash of Soda Water
Build in a rocks glass and serve with a Lime Wedge
*Johnnie Walker Black Label Neat
- 1 1/2 shots Johnnie Walker Black Label
Pour in a glass and serve with a side glass of water
*Baileys Spiced Cake Martini
2 Shots Bailey's Hazelnut
1 shot Smirnoff Iced Cake Vodka
1 sprinkle Nutmeg
Shake and strain into martini glass, sprinkle with nutmeg
*Speaking of wonderful and tastey things, (Send the kids out of the room) I always like to recap what I've done after I get through having sex. So last week, I was with this girl, running my usual routine and I realised some more observations:
1: I get the appeal of Doggy Style, but I'm not overly crazy about it. As a larger gentleman, either I have to get into this weird Victory / Tebowing pose or I have to just push her down like a ramp and it's just not as fun as porn makes it out to be.
2. I use regular ribbed condoms, they work for their dual purposes and feel nice, But I understand flavored condoms. It's weird when you're banging and then when you switch positions, you take a small break by going back down on her and you taste straight plastic
3. Smile! and Laugh! Sex is so much fun, why would you not laugh a little bit? I know whenever I'm having a great time, I'm all smiles and giggles.
*Hey wanna get me something for X-mas? This would be awesome!
Talk to ya later, Boneless Wings conclusion coming this weekend (Get Excited!)
* Holiday time is upon us, and you're probably gonna go home to see family or invite family over. And 9.9 out of 10 families are fucking crazy, Here's something to ease the insanity (maybe)
*Rangpur Rickey
- 2 Shots Tanqueray Rangpur (Lime) Gin
- 1 ounce Lime Juice
- 1/ 2 ounce simple syrup
- dash of Soda Water
Build in a rocks glass and serve with a Lime Wedge
*Johnnie Walker Black Label Neat
- 1 1/2 shots Johnnie Walker Black Label
Pour in a glass and serve with a side glass of water
*Baileys Spiced Cake Martini
2 Shots Bailey's Hazelnut
1 shot Smirnoff Iced Cake Vodka
1 sprinkle Nutmeg
Shake and strain into martini glass, sprinkle with nutmeg
*Speaking of wonderful and tastey things, (Send the kids out of the room) I always like to recap what I've done after I get through having sex. So last week, I was with this girl, running my usual routine and I realised some more observations:
1: I get the appeal of Doggy Style, but I'm not overly crazy about it. As a larger gentleman, either I have to get into this weird Victory / Tebowing pose or I have to just push her down like a ramp and it's just not as fun as porn makes it out to be.
2. I use regular ribbed condoms, they work for their dual purposes and feel nice, But I understand flavored condoms. It's weird when you're banging and then when you switch positions, you take a small break by going back down on her and you taste straight plastic
3. Smile! and Laugh! Sex is so much fun, why would you not laugh a little bit? I know whenever I'm having a great time, I'm all smiles and giggles.
*Hey wanna get me something for X-mas? This would be awesome!
Talk to ya later, Boneless Wings conclusion coming this weekend (Get Excited!)
November 26, 2012
Musical Stuff: Bands and Songs to Check Out
Here's some music I've been listening to lately
For those of you who like Pop-Punk like Paramore and VersaEmerge, Check out this Chicago band called Farraday.
Here's the video for "Put Me on the Next Plane"
Another song that I heard recently that is now stuck in my head is "True Affection" by The Blow
It's been around for a while, but I never knew who made it until recently
One of my favorite rappers out right now is Kendrick Lamar, He murders this beat on his new album.
I saw a new commercial for these new awful flavored vodkas created to get hot chicks drunk and I recognized the awesome voice in the song. It's the wonderfully talented, highly underrated Angela McClusky, the song is called "Sometimes" and it's not released yet, but, her new EP, "Lambeth Palace" is out. Here's a track from it called "Take Me Out Tonight":
November 20, 2012
A Rant: Thanksgiving in Black & White
So, Thursday is Thanksgiving, and for the 1st time, I will be cooking for the holiday as a result of staying in town and not flying home. I am grilling turkey breasts (because it's not blizzard like conditions yet) and I'm doing sweet potatoes and a corn dish that is a newer family tradition of mine.
Since Thanksgiving is a family holiday, many folks cook traditional fare related to their heritage of sorts. For example, I grew up with traditional southern black foods like Chit'lins (Chitterlings for you non-coloreds) and Collard greens as part of dinner. Lots of folks find that really weird (I do too. There's no real reason to choose to eat pig intestines, it made sense 200 years during slavery).
Upon looking up ideas for side dishes online, I noticed a lot of cranberry everything. I just find it funny no one gives a shit about cranberries outside of juice with vodka until this weekend, and then everyone and they mama wants to buy that damn can of cranberry sauce or make a cranberry chutney topping something. Then there's the, as I call them, "one-off" Vegetables. Shit like parsnips and brussel sprouts and cauliflower. Basically vegetables that you hear kids feeding to their dogs off the plate. Growing up, None of my friends ate any of this stuff for Thanksgiving. Mashed potatoes is a regular every day staple in most homes. (I grew up with baked potatoes) Macaroni and Cheese is a big thing in my family, Sweet Potatoes are a yearly staple as well. Most of my (white) friends say they don't care for sweet potato pies or whipped sweet potatoes. And I realised, once I looked up other recipes, that some jackass back in the day thought adding marshmallows to them would be a great idea. Wrong. All you need is butter, sugar, nutmeg and some vanilla extract. That's it. No cinnamon, No whipped cream and No Fuckin Marshmallows!
And what is the obsession with Stuffing and Casserole? Nothing sounds worse than dry ass cornbread mixed with veggies shoved in a turkey's hole. And it's not much better shoved in a baking pan either. Green beans were ment to be either boiled or fried and salted, not thrown in an oven with cheese and canned onion peels (don't even get me started with those flavorless pieces of nothing)
Whatever you and your family chow down on this Thanksgiving, I wish you all a safe, fun, and tastey holiday weekend. Watch some football and for fuck's sake, No Marshmallows!
November 7, 2012
Grab Bag #15: Give Up Your Clothes, Drink in Lakeview and Recapping The Election
Hello, sorry for being gone so long. Been with family in Chicago.
* As you all know, Hurricane Sandy kicked the shit out of the northeast corridor a couple weeks ago (thoughts and prayers with all affected, especially any of my readers out there)
Of course the Red Cross is asking for your financial contributions, but these people have lost EVERYTHING. So one thing I have plenty to donate and I'm sure a lot of you do as well is Clothing.
I am donating clothes from here in Chicago, as well as when I get back to Minnesota. So I'm asking everyone to take the time and look in your closets and dressers and get out some of those shirts and pants and stuff you haven't worn in awhile and help some people out. I'm looking to see which organizations are taking donations straight to the Northeast area. I'm guessing either Red Cross or Salvation Army (Call your local location and ask)
* Being up here in Chicagofor way too long For the last week+ I went to some bars over in the Lakeview area. One great spot located on the corner of Sheffield & Wellington called DMK Burger Bar, a Nebraska Cornhusker bar called Kirkwood Bar and an All-Ohio bar called Vaughan's Pub. I recommend visting all 3 of these spots if you are around the North Side of town.
* So, we have our President back in office. Barack Obama defeated Mitt Romney to retain the title last night. Here are some key points from the election coverage I noticed:
- If you watched WGN in the Chicago area or WGN America last night after the victory was announced, Melanie Griffith was being interviewed and she dropped the F-bomb last night on live TV (she said she was Fucking Excited) few people caught it, @bakeanddestroy mentioned it on her Twitter and there doesn't seem to be any video of it online, but it happened.
- I don't watch a ton of financial television networks and especially haven't watched Bloomberg TV since it was a DirecTV only channel and I had a shitty H.S project involving Overseas Stocks (long story) but I watched most of the election coverage on here and I enjoyed hearing the financial aspect of how the election would affect the nation.
...Did you really buy that above? hahahah, I watched and found my new television crush Trish Regan. With those green eyes and that whiskey-cigarette voice. I actually paid attention to most of whatever they were talking about.
- Wolf Blitzer didn't seem as racist as usual last night. Still not a fan. Asshole.
Ok, enough election talk. Have a good day. And don't forget, Barack still runs the military, if you want that beef
* As you all know, Hurricane Sandy kicked the shit out of the northeast corridor a couple weeks ago (thoughts and prayers with all affected, especially any of my readers out there)
Of course the Red Cross is asking for your financial contributions, but these people have lost EVERYTHING. So one thing I have plenty to donate and I'm sure a lot of you do as well is Clothing.
I am donating clothes from here in Chicago, as well as when I get back to Minnesota. So I'm asking everyone to take the time and look in your closets and dressers and get out some of those shirts and pants and stuff you haven't worn in awhile and help some people out. I'm looking to see which organizations are taking donations straight to the Northeast area. I'm guessing either Red Cross or Salvation Army (Call your local location and ask)
* Being up here in Chicago
* So, we have our President back in office. Barack Obama defeated Mitt Romney to retain the title last night. Here are some key points from the election coverage I noticed:
- If you watched WGN in the Chicago area or WGN America last night after the victory was announced, Melanie Griffith was being interviewed and she dropped the F-bomb last night on live TV (she said she was Fucking Excited) few people caught it, @bakeanddestroy mentioned it on her Twitter and there doesn't seem to be any video of it online, but it happened.
- I don't watch a ton of financial television networks and especially haven't watched Bloomberg TV since it was a DirecTV only channel and I had a shitty H.S project involving Overseas Stocks (long story) but I watched most of the election coverage on here and I enjoyed hearing the financial aspect of how the election would affect the nation.
...Did you really buy that above? hahahah, I watched and found my new television crush Trish Regan. With those green eyes and that whiskey-cigarette voice. I actually paid attention to most of whatever they were talking about.
- Wolf Blitzer didn't seem as racist as usual last night. Still not a fan. Asshole.
Ok, enough election talk. Have a good day. And don't forget, Barack still runs the military, if you want that beef
October 25, 2012
hiatus...
Over the last several months, I have been trying to work on building myself back within the local music scene. I had gone back to writing poetry and working on my compilation of basslines and poems, titled "BassPoetry" and I have also tried to start up or work with some new artists and projects in the area.
While I understand the task of starting up from scratch, I realised recently that my heart and motivation for music is no longer what it once was. After my stepping down from my old project, I realized that the amount of work that I have put into music over parts of nearly 14 years have never came close to being reciprocated. That goes the same for the artists in which I have managed.
At 23, I realise that while there is a lot of life left to live, time is running short as to building a career and a path for the future. So I am talking this time to announce my indefinite leave of absence from the world of music. While I know that being in one city doesn't mean a career can't be formed somewhere else, I know that if I can't keep motivated and find people fully dedicated to music in a city that is known for a so-called strong music scene, then it would be more of a headache to try and pull it off anywhere else.
I know a few people will be disappointed to hear this news, mostly my family, who never had the chance to see me perform live, for which I am truly sorry for. And to the people who I'm currently working with on a social media capacity, I do apologize for this sudden dismissal from my work, but I will work with you all to make the transition smooth and easy.
It is time for me to move into a new chapter of life, and sadly, peforming and recording music seems far away from that new chapter. Perhaps at some point in life, music will find it way back in on a perfomance level, but I have other things I need to work on in the coming months.
In closing, I would like to thank every single person who has ever heard me perform live or in recording, all of you who have supported me in my 14 years of playing music, you mean the world to me and I thank you so much for enjoying the ride.
Alex B. Smith
October 23, 2012
Obvious Relationship Advice for the Oblivious
People have always come to me for different types of advice, but I was always stunned with people would ask me about advice with relationship and dating. People who know me well have heard of my string of luck in that department but yet people still ask me.
Well some shit that I've seen and have been involved with I can tell you about, but this shit is so damn obvious, that honestly, you should already see this if you are paying attention.
Situation #1 involves people I know from out of town. A guy I know (We'll call him Boyfriend for chart purposes) is dating a lady (Girlfriend) in which they work together (hardly ever a good thing to begin with). However, it's quite clear that the said lady really likes another dude (Gentleman) who is also a co-worker at their office. It's now to the point of where when they all hang out after work, Girlfriend has a few too many and starts hitting on Gentleman, which rightfully pisses off Boyfriend, but Boyfriend gets mad at Gentleman instead of Girlfriend. 2 weeks ago, Gentleman and Girlfriend hang out together at a bar. (Keep in mind, despite all of the flirting, Gentleman has Not slept with Girlfriend, which explains his chart name) Boyfriend gets furious and blows up Girlfriend's phone, which she isn't answering, eventually leaving Boyfriend to find Girlfriend at another mutual friend's house, where she was staying because she was too drunk to drive. Gentleman had left for the evening (avoiding the confrontation, he nearly fought Boyfriend at their job a month earlier) Boyfriend eventually picks up Girlfriend and they argue all the way home.
Advice For Boyfriend: It's pretty fucking clear that for your girlfriend to be hitting on another man that you work with and consider somewhat a friend, she obviously doesn't care about you as a boyfriend. And instead of getting pissed at Gentleman (Who could have become Asshole by fucking your GF) you should probably dump your Girlfriend.
Advice For Girlfriend: You need to get your shit together and fucking figure out who you really care about and want to be with. You are being rude to your boyfriend and dragging along Gentleman isn't cool, especially when he's being nice to you and as courteous as possible to Boyfriend.
Advice For Gentleman: You've done a nice job with the circumstance. Me, I'm an asshole and I would have banged Girlfriend's brains out, but you kept it classy. Personally, I would dodge this whole shitstorm and not bother with either one of them outside of work.
Situation #2 involves a Guy (Boyfriend) a Girl (Girlfriend) and an asshole (Asshole or Ass for short)
Boyfriend and Girlfriend have been dating for a little bit, and Girlfriend moves in recently. First weekend she's in town, she meets Asshole and they become friends. Asshole at first doesn't know that Girlfriend has said title. He however does find out upon meeting Boyfriend and now he becomes an Ass. Boyfriend has made it very clear that he is a jealous and passive person and now Asshole smells blood. He keeps texting Girlfriend, who is oblivious to the fact that Ass is hitting on her. Asshole goes out to the bars with both BF and GF and basically plays what I like to call Two-Way Flirting. He goes on the offensive by making contact with Girlfriend every chance he can and plays defense by keeping Boyfriend at bay (usually with friendly conversation and alcohol) In fact, Asshole had a perfect opportunity to be a real dick when he had Girlfriend at his spot drunk and Boyfriend was upset about it and nearly left her there in a fit of rage. However, Asshole isn't trying to be Creeper, he actually likes Girlfriend and so he pumped the brakes at that point. One night un-related, Boyfriend and Girlfriend have an argument which leads to a break-up (temporary one at that but still) Asshole hears this news and basically alters his style to a more classic approach. However, before Asshole has a chance to be more legit about the situation, they get back together. Eventually Asshole starts to feel bad and he talks to Girlfriend about what he's been doing, she's upset about it and tries to get past it and wants to just be friends with Asshole.
Advice For Boyfriend: You need to man the fuck up and realise when someone is macking on your girl. While Asshole didn't succeed, one day, another dude just might step up and say/do the right shit to steal her off your arm. You never even called out Asshole or try to fight Asshole or anything. It's not robbing the safe in the bank if you leave the keys on the table. Your girlfriend probably deserves better, like a dude who will pay attention to her and not just flip out like a 5 year old girl. Be lucky Girlfriend loves you and is still with you. Don't get mad. Do better.
Advice for Girlfriend: You kept everything honest with everyone, which is what you were supposed to do. I would say just be a little more attentive to guys who come around you in the future. And probably you should ask yourself, How attentive is my Boyfriend, and why didn't he do anything if he realised what Asshole was doing. Not to get all medieval or anything but shouldn't boyfriends try to protect their girlfriends?
Advice for Asshole: You walked into a trap of sorts at the beginning, the classic "You can't tell if they are really seriously dating or not" But once you found out what was up, something bad snapped in you. It happens. Like I said to Boyfriend, it's nor robbery if you leave the safe keys on the table, you took a long shot bet on a woman you liked and it failed. Dust yourself off and try someone else and don't be an asshole like that. Go search for single women (MUCH Easier said than done, but you can't go buying cars out of people's garages)
So yeah, that's my Obvious advice for now. If anyone else has any situations or stories they want to e-mail to me and I can review them with my advice, send it to me at courtsideseatstohell@gmail.com
Well some shit that I've seen and have been involved with I can tell you about, but this shit is so damn obvious, that honestly, you should already see this if you are paying attention.
Situation #1 involves people I know from out of town. A guy I know (We'll call him Boyfriend for chart purposes) is dating a lady (Girlfriend) in which they work together (hardly ever a good thing to begin with). However, it's quite clear that the said lady really likes another dude (Gentleman) who is also a co-worker at their office. It's now to the point of where when they all hang out after work, Girlfriend has a few too many and starts hitting on Gentleman, which rightfully pisses off Boyfriend, but Boyfriend gets mad at Gentleman instead of Girlfriend. 2 weeks ago, Gentleman and Girlfriend hang out together at a bar. (Keep in mind, despite all of the flirting, Gentleman has Not slept with Girlfriend, which explains his chart name) Boyfriend gets furious and blows up Girlfriend's phone, which she isn't answering, eventually leaving Boyfriend to find Girlfriend at another mutual friend's house, where she was staying because she was too drunk to drive. Gentleman had left for the evening (avoiding the confrontation, he nearly fought Boyfriend at their job a month earlier) Boyfriend eventually picks up Girlfriend and they argue all the way home.
Advice For Boyfriend: It's pretty fucking clear that for your girlfriend to be hitting on another man that you work with and consider somewhat a friend, she obviously doesn't care about you as a boyfriend. And instead of getting pissed at Gentleman (Who could have become Asshole by fucking your GF) you should probably dump your Girlfriend.
Advice For Girlfriend: You need to get your shit together and fucking figure out who you really care about and want to be with. You are being rude to your boyfriend and dragging along Gentleman isn't cool, especially when he's being nice to you and as courteous as possible to Boyfriend.
Advice For Gentleman: You've done a nice job with the circumstance. Me, I'm an asshole and I would have banged Girlfriend's brains out, but you kept it classy. Personally, I would dodge this whole shitstorm and not bother with either one of them outside of work.
Situation #2 involves a Guy (Boyfriend) a Girl (Girlfriend) and an asshole (Asshole or Ass for short)
Boyfriend and Girlfriend have been dating for a little bit, and Girlfriend moves in recently. First weekend she's in town, she meets Asshole and they become friends. Asshole at first doesn't know that Girlfriend has said title. He however does find out upon meeting Boyfriend and now he becomes an Ass. Boyfriend has made it very clear that he is a jealous and passive person and now Asshole smells blood. He keeps texting Girlfriend, who is oblivious to the fact that Ass is hitting on her. Asshole goes out to the bars with both BF and GF and basically plays what I like to call Two-Way Flirting. He goes on the offensive by making contact with Girlfriend every chance he can and plays defense by keeping Boyfriend at bay (usually with friendly conversation and alcohol) In fact, Asshole had a perfect opportunity to be a real dick when he had Girlfriend at his spot drunk and Boyfriend was upset about it and nearly left her there in a fit of rage. However, Asshole isn't trying to be Creeper, he actually likes Girlfriend and so he pumped the brakes at that point. One night un-related, Boyfriend and Girlfriend have an argument which leads to a break-up (temporary one at that but still) Asshole hears this news and basically alters his style to a more classic approach. However, before Asshole has a chance to be more legit about the situation, they get back together. Eventually Asshole starts to feel bad and he talks to Girlfriend about what he's been doing, she's upset about it and tries to get past it and wants to just be friends with Asshole.
Advice For Boyfriend: You need to man the fuck up and realise when someone is macking on your girl. While Asshole didn't succeed, one day, another dude just might step up and say/do the right shit to steal her off your arm. You never even called out Asshole or try to fight Asshole or anything. It's not robbing the safe in the bank if you leave the keys on the table. Your girlfriend probably deserves better, like a dude who will pay attention to her and not just flip out like a 5 year old girl. Be lucky Girlfriend loves you and is still with you. Don't get mad. Do better.
Advice for Girlfriend: You kept everything honest with everyone, which is what you were supposed to do. I would say just be a little more attentive to guys who come around you in the future. And probably you should ask yourself, How attentive is my Boyfriend, and why didn't he do anything if he realised what Asshole was doing. Not to get all medieval or anything but shouldn't boyfriends try to protect their girlfriends?
Advice for Asshole: You walked into a trap of sorts at the beginning, the classic "You can't tell if they are really seriously dating or not" But once you found out what was up, something bad snapped in you. It happens. Like I said to Boyfriend, it's nor robbery if you leave the safe keys on the table, you took a long shot bet on a woman you liked and it failed. Dust yourself off and try someone else and don't be an asshole like that. Go search for single women (MUCH Easier said than done, but you can't go buying cars out of people's garages)
So yeah, that's my Obvious advice for now. If anyone else has any situations or stories they want to e-mail to me and I can review them with my advice, send it to me at courtsideseatstohell@gmail.com
October 18, 2012
Are Sports Fans Becoming Too Sensitive??
Now, In previous posts, I have talked about the sensitivity of people in life, mostly with the modern and future generations and how they have been raised. But now, I'm asking this question to the sports fans of the world. Are fans becoming too sensitive?
Recently, there were fan incidents in Atlanta (Braves bad call leading to garbage being thrown on the field) and Kansas City (Chiefs fans booing/cheering QB Matt Cassel when injured) and the Refgate Response from Green Bay (Packers whining about that call, threatening to riot allegedly)
Then, There's West Virginia.
Let it be known that I do not like the Mountaineers. I always lose money when I bet on or against them, their uniforms are ugly and I don't really care for that region personally (Ohio Valley) and I have a good friend from H.S. who attends WVU and while I know he's a good person, not much can be said for a lot of the other students based on the numerous reports I hear from writers and sports personalities and other fans who have been there and heard tons of degrading comments, racist comments and other general rude showings that they use to create their home field advantage.
2 weekends ago, WVU pulled out an exciting 48-45 win over Big 12 opponent Texas down in Austin. Back in Morgantown, Mountaineer kids started to light couches on fire, flip cars, toss garbage, the whole nine riot yards. I've never understood this behavior in any capacity, but especially during a Win? What is burning your cheap dorm furniture going to prove to anyone, other than you not having a place to pass out on next weekend?
Last week, the Mountaineer express, led by Heisman Hopeful QB Geno Smith, came to a screeching halt at the unlikely hands of Texas Tech, pretty much putting a dent into their hopes of a B(C)S Title Game. I haven't heard of any of the same violent rioting news after this crushing loss, but one can only assume some minor incidents took place.
Now this weekend, Top 5 and legit Title contender Kansas State strolls into Morgantown for what was already going to be an interesting game to watch on the field, but now might be something to witness around the stadium as well. This week, a fan forum (www.goEMAW.com) has come, if not under fire, but under the spotlight over a series of posts regarding comments over this week's matchup. A lot of different things were said, mostly joking about West Virginia's rural location, stereotypical "Drunken Meth-headed Toothless Cousin-Fuckin' Hillbilles" type of chatter that is purely satirical and to me personally, quite entertaining to read. Apparently, word got around to some WVU fans that their team was being trashed-talked on an opponent's forum (OOOH What a fucking shocker!) and they went in for blood. People lined the forum with threats of violence, attacks against a former prominent member of the board who tragically passed from cancer, and one lady even went so far as to string together quotes from the thread and write a Cease & Desist style letter to the Head of the NCAA. Let me repeat that, The HEAD of The NCAA!
How can a big, bad, rowdy group of proud Mountaineer fans go from burning couches and claiming titles one weekend to getting angry (or Butthurt, as so many on the forum claimed) about trash talk that honestly isn't even new or clever or really hurtful (unless you are one of the above mentioned stereotypes, in which case it's true).
People don't seem to understand trash-talk anymore in sports. The whole thing is to get into someone's head so that the goal at hand isn't as easy to achieve. Gregg Williams said it best, "A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on victory." That same mentality is active with fans just as it is players. All the time you hear road teams say we want to take the crowd out of the game. They matter just as much as the players on the field do. So with that being said, trash talk is fine and necessary for sports. It's when people want to start taking the shit that is being said personally and then things get out of line.
The passion and camaraderie of College Football is what makes it such a special and wonderful event. and people show their passion for the game and want to brag about their team and want to get their boys (and girls Title IX) fired up for the game. Taking a comment said on an opponent's fan forum so hard that you write the top suit of a top sports organization? Guess what, WVU fan who wrote that, I'm sure that the NCAA head did This with the print-out of your letter. There are over 100 Division 1-A (because I refuse to call 1-AA anything different) schools who play football, and probably have fan forum with the same kind of shit talk and chatter. Is it childish? Slightly. Are people living and dying from it, More than likely, No.
Which brings me to my next point of the fact that I am hearing that Police in Morgantown are going to be on super high alert, not just for the couch-burning, but to make sure the safety of the Kansas State fans won't be compromised. Really? I'm all for going to an opposing venue to support my teams, and I get that if you talk shit to the wrong people or cross the line at a game, you may get dealt with outside afterwards. But that's only fine if you Cross The Line. I feel that people who aren't even involved with this whole back-and-forth mess, simple casual fans making a trip to a stadium, are going to be overly harassed and possibly injured because of the harshness of this "kerfuffle" (someone else's term, not mine)
People want to slam Soccer supporters in England for their violent behavior in matches, but like everything in life there is a code that is followed. If you wanna have a good old fashioned smack-talk session and just leave it between the game, that's all fine and dandy. And if you want to take it to another level and push it to an engagement of fisticuffs, there's a group or two who will happily oblige to that as well. But when you have casual fans and families around, those are people to leave alone and let them watch the game. I understand this concept, being in all three groups at some point in time as a sports fan. Everyone has to know their stance and respect that.
In closing, my family taught me to take shit just as well as you can dish it out. And I think some fans around the nation, not just Morgantown, aren't getting that memo. Suck It Up! (and accept this ass-whuppin Colin Klein and the Wildcats are gonna give ya Saturday night)
Recently, there were fan incidents in Atlanta (Braves bad call leading to garbage being thrown on the field) and Kansas City (Chiefs fans booing/cheering QB Matt Cassel when injured) and the Refgate Response from Green Bay (Packers whining about that call, threatening to riot allegedly)
Then, There's West Virginia.
Let it be known that I do not like the Mountaineers. I always lose money when I bet on or against them, their uniforms are ugly and I don't really care for that region personally (Ohio Valley) and I have a good friend from H.S. who attends WVU and while I know he's a good person, not much can be said for a lot of the other students based on the numerous reports I hear from writers and sports personalities and other fans who have been there and heard tons of degrading comments, racist comments and other general rude showings that they use to create their home field advantage.
2 weekends ago, WVU pulled out an exciting 48-45 win over Big 12 opponent Texas down in Austin. Back in Morgantown, Mountaineer kids started to light couches on fire, flip cars, toss garbage, the whole nine riot yards. I've never understood this behavior in any capacity, but especially during a Win? What is burning your cheap dorm furniture going to prove to anyone, other than you not having a place to pass out on next weekend?
Last week, the Mountaineer express, led by Heisman Hopeful QB Geno Smith, came to a screeching halt at the unlikely hands of Texas Tech, pretty much putting a dent into their hopes of a B(C)S Title Game. I haven't heard of any of the same violent rioting news after this crushing loss, but one can only assume some minor incidents took place.
Now this weekend, Top 5 and legit Title contender Kansas State strolls into Morgantown for what was already going to be an interesting game to watch on the field, but now might be something to witness around the stadium as well. This week, a fan forum (www.goEMAW.com) has come, if not under fire, but under the spotlight over a series of posts regarding comments over this week's matchup. A lot of different things were said, mostly joking about West Virginia's rural location, stereotypical "Drunken Meth-headed Toothless Cousin-Fuckin' Hillbilles" type of chatter that is purely satirical and to me personally, quite entertaining to read. Apparently, word got around to some WVU fans that their team was being trashed-talked on an opponent's forum (OOOH What a fucking shocker!) and they went in for blood. People lined the forum with threats of violence, attacks against a former prominent member of the board who tragically passed from cancer, and one lady even went so far as to string together quotes from the thread and write a Cease & Desist style letter to the Head of the NCAA. Let me repeat that, The HEAD of The NCAA!
How can a big, bad, rowdy group of proud Mountaineer fans go from burning couches and claiming titles one weekend to getting angry (or Butthurt, as so many on the forum claimed) about trash talk that honestly isn't even new or clever or really hurtful (unless you are one of the above mentioned stereotypes, in which case it's true).
People don't seem to understand trash-talk anymore in sports. The whole thing is to get into someone's head so that the goal at hand isn't as easy to achieve. Gregg Williams said it best, "A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on victory." That same mentality is active with fans just as it is players. All the time you hear road teams say we want to take the crowd out of the game. They matter just as much as the players on the field do. So with that being said, trash talk is fine and necessary for sports. It's when people want to start taking the shit that is being said personally and then things get out of line.
The passion and camaraderie of College Football is what makes it such a special and wonderful event. and people show their passion for the game and want to brag about their team and want to get their boys (and girls Title IX) fired up for the game. Taking a comment said on an opponent's fan forum so hard that you write the top suit of a top sports organization? Guess what, WVU fan who wrote that, I'm sure that the NCAA head did This with the print-out of your letter. There are over 100 Division 1-A (because I refuse to call 1-AA anything different) schools who play football, and probably have fan forum with the same kind of shit talk and chatter. Is it childish? Slightly. Are people living and dying from it, More than likely, No.
Which brings me to my next point of the fact that I am hearing that Police in Morgantown are going to be on super high alert, not just for the couch-burning, but to make sure the safety of the Kansas State fans won't be compromised. Really? I'm all for going to an opposing venue to support my teams, and I get that if you talk shit to the wrong people or cross the line at a game, you may get dealt with outside afterwards. But that's only fine if you Cross The Line. I feel that people who aren't even involved with this whole back-and-forth mess, simple casual fans making a trip to a stadium, are going to be overly harassed and possibly injured because of the harshness of this "kerfuffle" (someone else's term, not mine)
People want to slam Soccer supporters in England for their violent behavior in matches, but like everything in life there is a code that is followed. If you wanna have a good old fashioned smack-talk session and just leave it between the game, that's all fine and dandy. And if you want to take it to another level and push it to an engagement of fisticuffs, there's a group or two who will happily oblige to that as well. But when you have casual fans and families around, those are people to leave alone and let them watch the game. I understand this concept, being in all three groups at some point in time as a sports fan. Everyone has to know their stance and respect that.
In closing, my family taught me to take shit just as well as you can dish it out. And I think some fans around the nation, not just Morgantown, aren't getting that memo. Suck It Up! (and accept this ass-whuppin Colin Klein and the Wildcats are gonna give ya Saturday night)
October 10, 2012
Grab Bag #14: Fall Time Drinks, Home Shopping Hilarity and some Food Porn (the good kind)
* So, one thing I like to do year-round is change up what I'm drinking. Here are 3 tasty beverages to sip on while it starts to get cooler outside:
Boulevard
2 oz rye whiskey (I like Bulleit Rye)
1/2 oz Grand Marnier® orange liqueur
1/2 oz dry vermouth
Stir with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with flamed orange peel, and serve
Cider Punch
1 1/2 qt hard cider
4 oz Drambuie® Scotch whisky
4 oz dry sherry
2 oz lemon juice
8 oz club soda
3 cored, thinly sliced apples
1 tspgrated nutmeg
Place the cider, Drambuie, sherry, lemon juice and club soda into a large punch bowl, and stir well. Add a large block of ice, then add the slices of apple. Sprinkle nutmeg across the top, and serve. Makes 18 (6-ounce) punch cups.
Bourbon Blackhawk
2 oz bourbon whiskey
1 oz sloe gin
1 maraschino cherry
In a mixing glass half-filled with ice cubes, combine the bourbon and sloe gin. Stir and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with the cherry.
* Have you guys seen this shit? a lady selling some crap on QVC apparently faints on Live TV and her co-host just keeps talking and selling whatever crap they were getting rid of. Video of it HERE
This is right up there with some of the best home shopping bloopers of all time, like these
Retro Ladder Fail: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZhMfzc9RbU
Sword Fail: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2EQWCpnIR8
Another Ladder Fail: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC70vdm4Al0
* Today, I bought myself and my mom a ton of quality meat and seafood from Omaha Steaks. Their Website is basically a hardcore food porn site for carnivores
Boulevard
2 oz rye whiskey (I like Bulleit Rye)
1/2 oz Grand Marnier® orange liqueur
1/2 oz dry vermouth
Stir with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with flamed orange peel, and serve
Cider Punch
1 1/2 qt hard cider
4 oz Drambuie® Scotch whisky
4 oz dry sherry
2 oz lemon juice
8 oz club soda
3 cored, thinly sliced apples
1 tspgrated nutmeg
Place the cider, Drambuie, sherry, lemon juice and club soda into a large punch bowl, and stir well. Add a large block of ice, then add the slices of apple. Sprinkle nutmeg across the top, and serve. Makes 18 (6-ounce) punch cups.
Bourbon Blackhawk
2 oz bourbon whiskey
1 oz sloe gin
1 maraschino cherry
In a mixing glass half-filled with ice cubes, combine the bourbon and sloe gin. Stir and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with the cherry.
* Have you guys seen this shit? a lady selling some crap on QVC apparently faints on Live TV and her co-host just keeps talking and selling whatever crap they were getting rid of. Video of it HERE
This is right up there with some of the best home shopping bloopers of all time, like these
Retro Ladder Fail: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZhMfzc9RbU
Sword Fail: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2EQWCpnIR8
Another Ladder Fail: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC70vdm4Al0
* Today, I bought myself and my mom a ton of quality meat and seafood from Omaha Steaks. Their Website is basically a hardcore food porn site for carnivores
October 4, 2012
The One and Only Post I'll Ever Write About The WNBA, I Promise
Ok, so one event you didn't notice happening this week unless you are a degenerate gambler (cough, cough) or you have a family member involved is the start of the WNBA Playoffs. Now, I can't call myself a fan of this league. I was pissed at the lame name choice of the Chicago Sky, and even more upset that we ended up with Denver Nuggets colors. The lack of dunking from women taller than me is absurd. The amount of passing in a play reminds me of 4th grade "Everyone Touch The Ball" rules. This league needs fixing to become credible.
Of all the criticism these women get, the harshest (and unfortunately, the most truthful) is that most of them aren't exactly runway models in the visual department. While that is an unfair balance, considering you're seeing them in full game action (where looks mean jackshit) there actually are some good looking women in the league. Here's my list of 5 WNBA Players I'd Watch:
1. Lauren Jackson (Center - Seattle Storm)
They call her the "Thunder from Down Under", and I could go off on a tangent that would be classless even for Courtside Seats to Hell standards. But this Aussie beauty has been tearing up the court on the pro ranks since she was 16. With 2 WNBA Titles, 3 MVP Trophies and a host of records under her belt, L. J. has mad skills on the court. This is one tall glass of water I would gulp down anyday of the week (Did I mention she's 6'5")
2. Sammy Prahalis (Guard - Phoenix Mercury)
3. Leilani Mitchell (Guard - New York Liberty)
4. Brittany Jackson (Guard - Atlanta Dream)
5. Candice Parker (Forward - Los Angeles Sparks)
So there you have it, basically the Starting 5 I would run out if I had the revenue-sucking task of operating a WNBA franchise. I don't even know how in the fuck I was able to spend nearly an hour of life talking about Women's Hoops. This only solidifies the fact that I am a sports junkie and that I should look for another dayjob that takes up more time of my life.
The funniest part of it all is that this started as a Facebook post about how women look better than men in basketball jerseys, Unless said man is actually playing basketball. To see grown (and usually overweight) men wearing basketball jerseys in the stands just screams Inferiority Complex to me. I think of Steve Brady from Sex and the City, trying for hours to hit a half-court shot at a ballyard in the park while wearing a practice reversable. If you are 13 or younger, walking around with your favorite NBA or NCAA team's jersey is cool and acceptable, but once you hit high school, that better be your name and number on the back of that shit.
One more great tidbit, I know every WNBA team name, even the ones who dont exist anymore (R.I.P Charlotte Sting & Cleveland Rockers)
September 25, 2012
Reciever Wins Jumpball, Every Time.
Ok, normally, I won't do game reviews on this blog, but due to the overwhelming response from Twitter and Facebook, I will give you my two cents on last night's Packers-Seahawks ending and the Replacement Refs in the NFL..
Unless you live under a rock or you are too busy (I.E. Lame, Un-American) to follow what's going on in the National Football League, the normal referees are on strike, bitching about not being paid enough (NFL owners are assholes) and so the current replacement refs are from Small College divisions, Top High School states, and even that kinda-hot, kinda-shitty Lingerie Football League
That being said, they are missing a shit ton of calls in the first 3 weeks of the season. They aren't used ot the pace of the league and I knew more about the NFL rulebook when I was 6 then most of these Foot Locker employees know now on the field.
Cut to last night's Monday Night Football match-up between the Green Bay Packers (suck) and the Seattle Seahawks (really shitty team). Seattle wins 14-12 on a Hail Mary Pass by Russell Wilson completed to wideout Golden Tate. What comes down as jumpball, the pass is caught by both Tate and Packers Cornerback M.D Jennings, and insanity ensues:
After the game, Millions of Packer fans and Packer bettors and people who think they know football wIn Monday's game between the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks, Seattle faced a 4th-and-10 from the Green Bay 24 with eight seconds remaining in the game.
This is the Official Statement From The NFL (anyone who was with me at Wild Tymes last night heard me say the exact same thing damn near word-for-word)
Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson threw a pass into the end zone. Several players, including Seattle wide receiver Golden Tate and Green Bay safety M.D. Jennings, jumped into the air in an attempt to catch the ball.
While the ball is in the air, Tate can be seen shoving Green Bay cornerback Sam Shields to the ground. This should have been a penalty for offensive pass interference, which would have ended the game. It was not called and is not reviewable in instant replay.
When the players hit the ground in the end zone, the officials determined that both Tate and Jennings had possession of the ball. Under the rule for simultaneous catch, the ball belongs to Tate, the offensive player. The result of the play was a touchdown.
Replay Official Howard Slavin stopped the game for an instant replay review. The aspects of the play that were reviewable included if the ball hit the ground and who had possession of the ball. In the end zone, a ruling of a simultaneous catch is reviewable. That is not the case in the field of play, only in the end zone.
Referee Wayne Elliott determined that no indisputable visual evidence existed to overturn the call on the field, and as a result, the on-field ruling of touchdown stood. The NFL Officiating Department reviewed the video today and supports the decision not to overturn the on-field ruling following the instant replay review.
The result of the game is final.
Applicable rules to the play are as follows:
A player (or players) jumping in the air has not legally gained possession of the ball until he satisfies the elements of a catch listed here.
Rule 8, Section 1, Article 3 of the NFL Rule Book defines a catch:
A forward pass is complete (by the offense) or intercepted (by the defense) if a player, who is inbounds:
(a) secures control of the ball in his hands or arms prior to the ball touching the ground; and
(b) touches the ground inbounds with both feet or with any part of his body other than his hands; and
(c) maintains control of the ball long enough, after (a) and (b) have been fulfilled, to enable him to perform any act common to the game (i.e., maintaining control long enough to pitch it, pass it, advance with it, or avoid or ward off an opponent, etc.).
When a player (or players) is going to the ground in the attempt to catch a pass, Rule 8, Section 1, Article 3, Item 1 states:
Player Going to the Ground. If a player goes to the ground in the act of catching a pass (with or without contact by an opponent), he must maintain control of the ball throughout the process of contacting the ground, whether in the field of play or the end zone. If he loses control of the ball, and the ball touches the ground before he regains control, the pass is incomplete. If he regains control prior to the ball touching the ground, the pass is complete.
Rule 8, Section 1, Article 3, Item 5 states:
Simultaneous Catch. If a pass is caught simultaneously by two eligible opponents, and both players retain it, the ball belongs to the passers. It is not a simultaneous catch if a player gains control first and an opponent subsequently gains joint control. If the ball is muffed after simultaneous touching by two such players, all the players of the passing team become eligible to catch the loose ball.ent to the Facebook and the Twitter and said, "That was an interception, what a fucking garbage call, dumb fake refs!"
What the Real Missed call here is Tate Pushing down Green Bay safety Sam Shields, which should have been offensive pass interference, leading to a 15 yard backpedal, which would have probably ended the game 12-7 Packers final.
But the deal is, from the 4 camera angles repeated Ad Nauseam on ESPN, 2 angles show the interference, 2 don't. The regular officials wouldn't have made a difference here. They only have one set of eyes per person and could have missed that call just as well. Instant Replay, you ask? Can't challenge the ruling of a penalty.
So while I agree with everyone about how bad these crackerjack referees are, I don't want to hear anything else about "It was an interception" because it wasn't. If you want to be mad about something, get mad about the Packer O-Line letting Aaron Rodgers lay on his back the whole first half, or the fact that they don't have a decent run game
For the record, I bet the Under in this game. #Winning.
September 18, 2012
Grab Bag #13: Lots of Stuff
Sorry that's it's been so long since I've posted on here (with the exception of my College Football Polls)
I have been busy struggling with losing my bets and out drinking, as usual. But there has been lots going on, so let's catch up right quick:
* I'm getting my feet back into the door in the world of music, I am working with some musicians on a blues project here in St. Paul and also doing some session gigs as well. This comes in perfect timing with me about to buy a new Bass Guitar this month. I will keep you guys posted on any shows I ever do right here on the blog.
* I don't know how me or my friends or anyone who likes real fuckin Rap missed this last Killer Mike album, "R.A.P". This has to be one of the best albums I've heard in awhile. My favorite track right now is "Untitled" but you can listen to the entire album HERE
*Coming up soon will be my 2012 Election Preview. It's one of two times I will talk about the Race for President. Remember this Isn't CNN or Fox News, but keep an eye out for it within the next month.
* Fall is officially here in town, weather-wise. Time to turn off the A.C and dry clean those comforters. Here's a Whiskey to try out and I'll leave you with an awesome recipe for one of my favorite cold-weather dishes, and the closest thing to soup that I'll ever eat, Chili!
Total recipe time: 2-2-3/4 hours
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds Ground Round
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt
Black Pepper
Paprika
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small bag of yellow and white corn
1 medium jalapeño pepper, minced (with seeds)
2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) chili-seasoned diced tomatoes
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in stockpot over medium heat until hot. Brown 1/2 of beef; remove from stockpot. Repeat with remaining beef. Remove beef from stockpot. Season with salt, pepper and paprika, as desired. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, onion and jalapeño pepper to stockpot. Cook and stir 5 to 8 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Return beef and juices to stockpot. Add tomatoes and corn; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 hours or until beef is fork-tender.
I have been busy struggling with losing my bets and out drinking, as usual. But there has been lots going on, so let's catch up right quick:
* I'm getting my feet back into the door in the world of music, I am working with some musicians on a blues project here in St. Paul and also doing some session gigs as well. This comes in perfect timing with me about to buy a new Bass Guitar this month. I will keep you guys posted on any shows I ever do right here on the blog.
* I don't know how me or my friends or anyone who likes real fuckin Rap missed this last Killer Mike album, "R.A.P". This has to be one of the best albums I've heard in awhile. My favorite track right now is "Untitled" but you can listen to the entire album HERE
*Coming up soon will be my 2012 Election Preview. It's one of two times I will talk about the Race for President. Remember this Isn't CNN or Fox News, but keep an eye out for it within the next month.
* Fall is officially here in town, weather-wise. Time to turn off the A.C and dry clean those comforters. Here's a Whiskey to try out and I'll leave you with an awesome recipe for one of my favorite cold-weather dishes, and the closest thing to soup that I'll ever eat, Chili!
Total recipe time: 2-2-3/4 hours
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds Ground Round
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt
Black Pepper
Paprika
1 medium onion, chopped
1 small bag of yellow and white corn
1 medium jalapeño pepper, minced (with seeds)
2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) chili-seasoned diced tomatoes
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in stockpot over medium heat until hot. Brown 1/2 of beef; remove from stockpot. Repeat with remaining beef. Remove beef from stockpot. Season with salt, pepper and paprika, as desired. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, onion and jalapeño pepper to stockpot. Cook and stir 5 to 8 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Return beef and juices to stockpot. Add tomatoes and corn; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 hours or until beef is fork-tender.
September 11, 2012
Never Forget...
11 Years ago on a Tuesday, our lives were changed forever. I just want to thank all of the men and women in the military, firefighters, medical staff and police of this nation, who take on the tasks of keeping all of us safe. And thoughts are with those who perished on that terrible day in New York. #neverforget #9-11-01
If You Know A Soldier, Or Even See One Out Today at a Bar or Restaraunt, Buy that Man or Woman a Drink. Cheers those who make our lives what they are today. For me to even be able to write this blog you are reading, people sacrificed everything to protect us and our nation. Never Take That For Granted!
August 22, 2012
Asking the Fans to Critique my Dating Profile
I asked a friend to do this once before and they never got around to helping me with it, so I'm leaving it to you faithful readers to send me messages on what I should change/keep/re-arrange about my dating profile on OKCupid
Here's the link:
http://www.okcupid.com/profile/axbass
Fire away, send suggestions to courtsideseatstohell@gmail.com or leave them on the facebook page
Here's the link:
http://www.okcupid.com/profile/axbass
Fire away, send suggestions to courtsideseatstohell@gmail.com or leave them on the facebook page
August 21, 2012
Cute Chicks on Daytime Television
Last month, I got a TV in my bedroom, so now I'm watching a bit more television than I had been the last couple of years (Outside of sports, of course) and I thought, why not point out some of the gorgeous women I've noticed on the tube lately.
* Melissa D'arabian (Ten Dollar Dinners; Food Network)
This cute southwestern mom of 4 was one of the winner's of the Food Network's "Next Network Star" back in 2009, and now she has her own show and cookbook, featuring meals that can feed a family of 4 for just $10 bucks or less. Cute and Thrifty? That's a winning combo right there.
* Clarissa Thompson (SportsNation; ESPN2)
It takes some knowledge and talent to fill the big heels left from the amazing Michelle Beadle, but if there was one woman in sports who fit the job perfectly, it's Clarissa Thompson. She's been around for a bit, bumming along on Fox Sports Net and Big Ten Network before finally getting a shot on the big time in 2010 with ESPN. Hot, Smart, and enough sass to put that moron Colin Cowherd in his place, just like Beadle.
* Elizabeth Ries (Twin Cities Live; KSTP-5 Twin Cities)
You live outside of Minnesota, I'm sure you've never heard of her. You live in Minnesota, You know exactly who I'm talking about (maybe). Local television around here sucks more than the Vikings and Twins do combined, but this woman is very easy on the eyes. She's been hosting this around town afternoon variety show for awhile, and hopefully, the folks at ABC notice this cutie and maybe give her a shot at the national scene. And like me, she has a cool Blog as well. She even does some double duty on the radio too.
August 20, 2012
Food Review: Stella's Fish Cafe
This past Sunday, a friend of mine texted me, wanting to go to eat somewhere with a rooftop. So myself and 2 others went to one of the best seafood spots in the Twin Cities, Stella's Fish Cafe in Uptown Minneapolis.
What makes this rooftop so special, is that it has 2 different levels. One spot that is more of a Bar & Apps kinda level and the very top of the restaurant is more of a dining area. it's a perfect spot to take a date for a sunset dinner or to reserve and have a classy dinner party (which they do offer) This spot also has a wonderful bar and 2 levels inside that have the perfect blend of fun and class that is missing from a lot of the hipster, bro-ish bars and spots in the surrounding area.
The food was nothing short of amazing. They offer tons of options throughout the seafood world, from over a half-dozen different varieties of Oysters, several types of fish, from Walleye toP Tilapia to Swordfish, and of course, Shrimp and Lobster.
I had the East Coast Swordfish, which came with a select choice of sauces and veggies. I chose to have the ponzu sauce with the side of wasabi and broccoli. The Japanese influenced flavors went perfectly with the delicate fish. My friends had the grilled Salmon and the Lobster Pasta. One drawback was the lack of decent garlic bread, something that is usually found in any seafood place. But overall, the portions were well-sized and the presentation was fantastic.
Overall, I give Stella's Fish Cafe 4.5 out of 5 Flames
Stella's Fish Cafe
1400 West Lake Street
Minneapolis
Phone: (612) 824-8862
What makes this rooftop so special, is that it has 2 different levels. One spot that is more of a Bar & Apps kinda level and the very top of the restaurant is more of a dining area. it's a perfect spot to take a date for a sunset dinner or to reserve and have a classy dinner party (which they do offer) This spot also has a wonderful bar and 2 levels inside that have the perfect blend of fun and class that is missing from a lot of the hipster, bro-ish bars and spots in the surrounding area.
The food was nothing short of amazing. They offer tons of options throughout the seafood world, from over a half-dozen different varieties of Oysters, several types of fish, from Walleye toP Tilapia to Swordfish, and of course, Shrimp and Lobster.
I had the East Coast Swordfish, which came with a select choice of sauces and veggies. I chose to have the ponzu sauce with the side of wasabi and broccoli. The Japanese influenced flavors went perfectly with the delicate fish. My friends had the grilled Salmon and the Lobster Pasta. One drawback was the lack of decent garlic bread, something that is usually found in any seafood place. But overall, the portions were well-sized and the presentation was fantastic.
Overall, I give Stella's Fish Cafe 4.5 out of 5 Flames
Stella's Fish Cafe
1400 West Lake Street
Minneapolis
Phone: (612) 824-8862
August 16, 2012
that's a Hang Wiff'em...
Hang wiff'em = A baseball term, famously coined by Sox broadcaster Hawk Harrelson; used to describe a hard hit ball that is heading right to a fielder's glove for an out. The fact that a batter hit the ball hard enough to get a base hit, but landed in the wrong spot means it will "hang with" the player, as he thinks about it.
So here's the scenario. It's midnight at a bar in Dinkytown (U of M Campus area, for you non-minnesotans) and I'm there with a friend-girl (described in a previous post) and she talks to some dude who mentioned South America (where she was traveling abroad this summer). Eventually, we get invited to his table, which consisted of (from left to right) a gay dude, a quiet dude, a cute girl, a really quiet dude with gauges, and travel guy. During name exchange introductions, they mention that they live in St. Paul, and the cute girl says she lives in a house over east and is looking for extra roommates next month.
Key Point: she looks at quiet guy and really quiet gauge guy and says those are her current roommates.
So, at this point I'm nodding along and listening. I see her grab both of them beers along with her drink, which seems to solidify the claim of them being just roommates. As time passes, and I know I'm going to leave I casually mention that "I actually have someone moving here soon. My brother is looking to stay around st.paul" The squeeze bunt play works to perfection as she goes, "Here, take down my number". At this point I type the number in my phone, smile, and wish the table a good night.
This seems to have all the makings of a perfect 9th inning rally, so I decide to play offense and go for the winning run. So when I got home, I sent this text:
Me:
"Hey I'm gonna keep it real with you, my buddy isn't moving up here. I said that to see if I could get your number. You're cute and you said your friends were just your roommates so I'm making the bold assumption you're single? If I'm wrong then forgive me and I'll pretend this didn't happen, but if I'm right, I'd like to take you to dinner somewhere at some point"
So, I'm thinking here's the runner advancing to 3rd on the way to home. She replies:
Her:
Goodness, well thank you. I'm actually not single :( the guy sitting next to me in the black shirt and stretched ears is my boyfriend... I'm sorry :(
Out at the plate, ballgame over, drive home safely.
But one giant plus out of this is that she said later:
Her:
You seem like a good guy, don't give up on the bold moves. If I was single, I'd be impressed by your creativity.
But what kills me is how this guy was so distant and didn't look like he was even her good friend, let alone her boyfriend. I understand not being "That" couple, but for the love of pizza, at least look like your dating the damn person next to ya. Because remember, what one dude doesn't appreciate, another dude certainly will.
Anyways, I thanked her and wished her a good night. Not bad for an on-the-fly play. But "That's a hang wiff'em right there."
So here's the scenario. It's midnight at a bar in Dinkytown (U of M Campus area, for you non-minnesotans) and I'm there with a friend-girl (described in a previous post) and she talks to some dude who mentioned South America (where she was traveling abroad this summer). Eventually, we get invited to his table, which consisted of (from left to right) a gay dude, a quiet dude, a cute girl, a really quiet dude with gauges, and travel guy. During name exchange introductions, they mention that they live in St. Paul, and the cute girl says she lives in a house over east and is looking for extra roommates next month.
Key Point: she looks at quiet guy and really quiet gauge guy and says those are her current roommates.
So, at this point I'm nodding along and listening. I see her grab both of them beers along with her drink, which seems to solidify the claim of them being just roommates. As time passes, and I know I'm going to leave I casually mention that "I actually have someone moving here soon. My brother is looking to stay around st.paul" The squeeze bunt play works to perfection as she goes, "Here, take down my number". At this point I type the number in my phone, smile, and wish the table a good night.
This seems to have all the makings of a perfect 9th inning rally, so I decide to play offense and go for the winning run. So when I got home, I sent this text:
Me:
"Hey I'm gonna keep it real with you, my buddy isn't moving up here. I said that to see if I could get your number. You're cute and you said your friends were just your roommates so I'm making the bold assumption you're single? If I'm wrong then forgive me and I'll pretend this didn't happen, but if I'm right, I'd like to take you to dinner somewhere at some point"
So, I'm thinking here's the runner advancing to 3rd on the way to home. She replies:
Her:
Goodness, well thank you. I'm actually not single :( the guy sitting next to me in the black shirt and stretched ears is my boyfriend... I'm sorry :(
Out at the plate, ballgame over, drive home safely.
But one giant plus out of this is that she said later:
Her:
You seem like a good guy, don't give up on the bold moves. If I was single, I'd be impressed by your creativity.
But what kills me is how this guy was so distant and didn't look like he was even her good friend, let alone her boyfriend. I understand not being "That" couple, but for the love of pizza, at least look like your dating the damn person next to ya. Because remember, what one dude doesn't appreciate, another dude certainly will.
Anyways, I thanked her and wished her a good night. Not bad for an on-the-fly play. But "That's a hang wiff'em right there."
August 15, 2012
UPDATE: Changes made to the Football Days Schedule
http://axsmith.blogspot.com/2012/07/courtside-seats-to-hell-presents.html
Some new updates and changes to the Football Days events, Including a new Tailgate party in Chicago for the Northwestern - Boston College game on September 15th.
Some new updates and changes to the Football Days events, Including a new Tailgate party in Chicago for the Northwestern - Boston College game on September 15th.
August 14, 2012
Grab Bag #12: Jaz is Alive, Alex dances and dries out, and would you like some tortilla chips?
*Wonderful news about Killing Joke singer Jaz Coleman. He was reported missing by his bandmates a couple weeks ago, but we learned today that he is safe and well and was in the Western Sahara working on a new symphony.
*After 2 incidents of blacking out, vomiting, and not remembering what happened, I have decided to dry out for the next week or so. I'm getting a bit tired of having my right side hurting every morning when I wake up and I'm trying to drink away some of the shit I've been dealing with lately, which isn't a good idea. While I know, very few people don't enjoy and/or have never encountered me sober, I assure you all, I will do my best not to injure or obliterate anyone, even if you say something stupid around me. Maybe.
* Another reason to put the bottle down for a bit: This 30-second gem filmed this past weekend
* I have an awesome recipe for Homemade Tortilla Chips:
Ingredients
Peanut oil, for frying
8 fresh flour tortillas
House Seasoning, recipe follows
Directions
Heat 1-inch of peanut oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat to 350 degrees.
Arrange the tortillas in a stack and cut into 6 equal wedges like a pizza. Fry a few chips at a time, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon, until crisp and lightly browned, ABOUT 10-20 SECONDS! (any longer and they will burn!) Drain chips on a paper towel-lined plate; sprinkle lightly with House Seasoning and store in an airtight container.
House Seasoning:
1 cup salt
1/4 cup black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Mix ingredients together and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
They should come out looking epic, like above.
August 6, 2012
Is Alex B. Smith gonna buy a dog?
So the other night, I walked out of my apartment to smoke a cigar and I saw 4 attractive women in the park, all walking dogs. Then I walk across the street, I see 2 other good looking chicks huddled by a patio chair, petting some furry poodle or maybe it was one of those shitzu deals, I dunno.
My point is, for some reason, it seems like nearly every woman loves dogs. Especially out here in Minnesota. They are solid conversation starters and girls like to think that a guy with a pet is more caring and kind than someone without.
Here's my problem: I genuinely do not like dogs. Not one bit.
This photo was taken last week at a friend's house.
I posed for my friend (who loves animals to the point where once she swerved out of the way for a duck on the street... But, I digress)
This little puppy thing jumped on me, and while I don't like pets, I'll never be mean to one. I would have loved to move the thing off of me but I wasn't going to go chuck the damn thing in another yard Brett Farve style. It's one thing to not want them shitting and running in your house, it's another to be mean to them.
But, it makes me think more and more that my distate for pets is being translated into a small sign of inablity to commit to something caring and loving (Like a relationship)
While this is Not the case, I am trying my best to be more accepting to pets. I don't mind cats at all. They keep to themselves, keep moderately clean, and they shit in a box, not in the middle of the floor or yard or wherever the hell they want. I used to have a fish tank when I was a kid, but those things die so fast and cleaning the tank can be a hassle every now and then.
In closing, I would just like to let everyone know that I care about people way more than animals. And I'd much rather buy a girl dinner and a fur coat then have to buy dinner for the fur coat messing up my nice couch.
July 26, 2012
Grab Bag #11: LOL (Lots of Links)
* One of my new addictions online is this food recipe mega-search engine called Foodily. As you all know, I love to cook and try out new recipes and put twists on old classics. if you like to do the same, this site is a must-bookmark in your browser. You can also favorite different recipes, make lists and share them with friends on the site or on Facebook as well.
* One interesting sports story today is 50 Cent apparently filed and received a Boxing Promoter's Licence in New York this week. He is supposedly going to start a promotion company and draw in currently locked up Welterweight Champion Floyd Mayweather to fight arguably, the best fighter of the 21st Century, Manny Pacquiao, in what would easily be called The Fight of The Century. The door gate and Pay-Per-View draw of this event would rival money made in some of the last several Super Bowls and big Box Office movie hits that have been released in the recent times. I will be keeping an ear open on this story, and while a lot of you might not follow boxing (I am a huge boxing fan, and used to do cornerwork in fights after graduating H.S.) It will be a Breaking News story on here if that fight is announced.
* Been following this story about the ongoing trouble Chick-Fil-A has been through. For those of you who don't know, Chick-Fil-A is an awesomely tasty chicken place that is hard to find in the Midwest, but littered throughout the South. They have their "Old Southern Values" such as being closed on Sundays and apparently not supporting Gay Marriage. Let me now state a disclaimer
*DISCLAIMER* Courtside Seats to Hell has no problem with any couples being together or married, Gay, Lesbian, Straight, Whatever. Get Married if you like (Personally, Marriage seems dumb in general, but people do dumb shit all the time)
That being said, now Chicago, Boston, Philly and other cities are about to try and boycott Chick-Fil-A's from being opened in their respective cities. However, disallowing a franchise to open somewhere violates some Constitutional rights. I hope that things can be resolved so that we can just let people have their rights. Gays and Lesbians need their rights to marry, and I could really use a chicken sandwich about now.
* Read a study about the effects of Alcohol mixed with energy drinks of high caffeine (Vodka-Red Bulls and Jager Bombs) Basically telling us that the combo is dangerous and leads to reckless behavior and lots of casual sex. In other news, I have now started buying women more Vodka-Red Bulls at bars. But seriously, these can be tasty combos, you should just drink them in moderation
*One more thing, check out this awesome recipe I found on Foodily that I'll be making all Football Season long.
* One interesting sports story today is 50 Cent apparently filed and received a Boxing Promoter's Licence in New York this week. He is supposedly going to start a promotion company and draw in currently locked up Welterweight Champion Floyd Mayweather to fight arguably, the best fighter of the 21st Century, Manny Pacquiao, in what would easily be called The Fight of The Century. The door gate and Pay-Per-View draw of this event would rival money made in some of the last several Super Bowls and big Box Office movie hits that have been released in the recent times. I will be keeping an ear open on this story, and while a lot of you might not follow boxing (I am a huge boxing fan, and used to do cornerwork in fights after graduating H.S.) It will be a Breaking News story on here if that fight is announced.
* Been following this story about the ongoing trouble Chick-Fil-A has been through. For those of you who don't know, Chick-Fil-A is an awesomely tasty chicken place that is hard to find in the Midwest, but littered throughout the South. They have their "Old Southern Values" such as being closed on Sundays and apparently not supporting Gay Marriage. Let me now state a disclaimer
*DISCLAIMER* Courtside Seats to Hell has no problem with any couples being together or married, Gay, Lesbian, Straight, Whatever. Get Married if you like (Personally, Marriage seems dumb in general, but people do dumb shit all the time)
That being said, now Chicago, Boston, Philly and other cities are about to try and boycott Chick-Fil-A's from being opened in their respective cities. However, disallowing a franchise to open somewhere violates some Constitutional rights. I hope that things can be resolved so that we can just let people have their rights. Gays and Lesbians need their rights to marry, and I could really use a chicken sandwich about now.
* Read a study about the effects of Alcohol mixed with energy drinks of high caffeine (Vodka-Red Bulls and Jager Bombs) Basically telling us that the combo is dangerous and leads to reckless behavior and lots of casual sex. In other news, I have now started buying women more Vodka-Red Bulls at bars. But seriously, these can be tasty combos, you should just drink them in moderation
*One more thing, check out this awesome recipe I found on Foodily that I'll be making all Football Season long.
July 25, 2012
I'm not a self-racist, and that stripper's a bitch
So, I am blogging late at night after leaving a strip club for a friend's birthday. I should be telling you an awesome story about hot strippers and blowing cash but I'm writing because I am pissed off and extremely insulted.
I had one long lap dance the whole night. It was amazing. Around 1:45 AM, me and 2 friends briefly left to catch last call at a nearby bar. While it was to no avail, we head back into the strip club and right as I sit down, I am approached by a dancer (who is black) and she rudely states, "Oh, so you must not be into black women?" What makes this such a fucking ignorant comment is that the first girl I conversed with in the club was black and when I wanted to get a dance from her, she was in the back room and was never available. Keep in mind, there are only 5 girls on staff tonight (3 black and 2 white). This stripper goes on to call me an "Uncle Tom" and calls one of my friends's friend a prostitute. At this point, I am completely outraged and I tell the story to one of the bouncers, who has known me since I've started going to this club in 2009.
What kills me about this whole situation is that I have had to deal with simple-minded bullshit like this ever since I was a little kid. When I was 6 years old, I had a crush on a jewish girl and I mock proposed to her with a Ring Pop (She declined, but purchased the ring pop from me for a Quarter) and even then, I remember kids making a comment about me not going after someone "who looks like me."
I get a lot of bullshit for liking things that most black people don't stereotypically enjoy, like Hard Rock music, Hockey, and Cold weather. But one of the things that has always pissed me off is that people feel that I am not attracted to black women because they say that "I've never seen you hang out with any black women" or "You're never hitting on any black women.", I grew up hearing comments in a slightly jestful manner from family like "I could see you marrying a white girl" but they never meant it in a negative connotation, nor was it ever because I disliked a race.
Once again the ignorance is never short of a miscue. I wasn't raised to do certain things or to avoid things based on how few or how many black people were involved. I'm sorry, but I was raised in an era where race was only as big as how someone or the media empathized it. I'm not seen around any black women in Minnesota because a good chunk of the things and places I do and go to, there just aren't any around. I find women of all race attractive. But at the same time, I refuse to feel bad for things that stick out with me. Everyone knows that one big attraction of mine is that I love redheads, especially natural redheads. Now, numbers tell us that Redhead genetics are established from people of Irish or Scottish descent. That eliminates people from all walks of life mostly, not just blacks. But aside from this point, I find women of all races and colors beautiful. Therre are gorgeous women in every race, and there are ugly ones too, and this stripper, for the record, must have interviewed for her spot over the phone.
It sickens me that in 2012, I have to defend myself not from outward racism, but more self-racism than anything else.I don't fucking need to perpetuate any stereotypes and I can do and be with or hang out with or get a fucking lap dance from anyone I want. Like Dr. King preached, I judge by content of charactor, not color of skin. Ergo, I didn't dance with said stripper because she was black, but because she was a total bitch.
July 24, 2012
Bands to Watch: Forever Waiting
So, this is a new segment I'm gonna throw in here and there, Bands to Watch
The band to watch in July and August is a 5-Piece Hard Rock band from Glenwood City, Wisconsin called Forever Waiting
Fans of Red and Breaking Benjamin should really enjoy this group, they are busy playing some big shows in the Twin Cities area, Currently in the Rawkzilla Battle of the Bands and also opening for Trapt at Station 4 on August 12. For more info on FW, check them out on Facebook.
Check out their debut single,
"Lost in Silence" HERE
Like Forever Waiting on Facebook HERE
Cosmo: Funny read, but really?
So, I'm pretty old school in the sense that I like to still read and subscribe to magazines. I recently signed up to GQ and Esquire, and as a promo, I'm getting Redbook, Wired and Cosmo.
I always read Cosmo sporadically, back when I used to get my hair cut at the same salon my Mom went to, and then on the lobby tables outside my Dad's office. It seemed like a boring read when I was a child, but over time, I realised that a lot of women read this and look to this mag for a ton of advice. Eventually, I saw this more as a glance into the playbook of a woman, if you will.
But if you really read some of the shit that they write in here, it's not super bright advice or wisdom. (like Esquire , for example, is basically the Older Brother I never had) A lot of the things they claim men like or want from a woman is absolute bullshit. And I've had several female friends say that a lot of these tips are garbage as well.
Case in point, half of the relationship tips in here are common sense things that no one (magazine or person) should have to tell you, and the other half is stuff that is only true to such a small number of people that it's hardly worth mentioning. Don't waste your time and cash on this mag, just pay more attention to what's going on around you and you'll figure it out. Hopefully...
I always read Cosmo sporadically, back when I used to get my hair cut at the same salon my Mom went to, and then on the lobby tables outside my Dad's office. It seemed like a boring read when I was a child, but over time, I realised that a lot of women read this and look to this mag for a ton of advice. Eventually, I saw this more as a glance into the playbook of a woman, if you will.
But if you really read some of the shit that they write in here, it's not super bright advice or wisdom. (like Esquire , for example, is basically the Older Brother I never had) A lot of the things they claim men like or want from a woman is absolute bullshit. And I've had several female friends say that a lot of these tips are garbage as well.
Case in point, half of the relationship tips in here are common sense things that no one (magazine or person) should have to tell you, and the other half is stuff that is only true to such a small number of people that it's hardly worth mentioning. Don't waste your time and cash on this mag, just pay more attention to what's going on around you and you'll figure it out. Hopefully...
July 20, 2012
Unreal...
Are. You. Fucking. Kidding. Me?
http://www.latimes.com/news/nation/nationnow/la-na-nn-dark-knight-shooting-20120720,0,2147749.story
Prayers and Thoughts going out to all of those affected in Colorado.
There is NO Fucking reason why this should have happened, when and where this happened. It is an absolute tragedy
It made me think of this song.
"How could you be so full of hate, to take away somebody's life?"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9U6kpj-k8BE
Again, Keep the victims & families in your thoughts.
http://www.latimes.com/news/nation/nationnow/la-na-nn-dark-knight-shooting-20120720,0,2147749.story
Prayers and Thoughts going out to all of those affected in Colorado.
There is NO Fucking reason why this should have happened, when and where this happened. It is an absolute tragedy
It made me think of this song.
"How could you be so full of hate, to take away somebody's life?"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9U6kpj-k8BE
Again, Keep the victims & families in your thoughts.
July 18, 2012
New Look, New Stuff, Same Old Hell
*Hey, hope you guys like the new look of the page. Wanted to change it up just a 'lil bit.
*I'm gonna start doing some new feature segments in the upcoming months. One new segment will be a Mailbag. I want to talk about what the people want to hear about (sometimes) and so people can E-Mail me questions, comments and/or ideas to my e-mail
And once a month, I will answer as many questions as i can on here in a post.
*Another new segment starting this fall will be The Betting Window. Every Friday Night this football season, I will post my College & Pro betting picks on here, and toss in some game previews here and there. Also, for all you tailgaters and foodies, I will have some weekend recipes in there as well.
That is all. Carry on.
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