It seems like forever since I last had time to blog, probably because it's been... Well, forever. Time is a precious commodity when you work two jobs and have kids you actually enjoy spending time with. Sometimes, being an adult really sucks.
Enough of the pity party. Things are going relatively well. I've been on vacation for a week now, and I have another week to go. Vacations rock! I've spent a lot of time just hanging out with my boys. They got skateboards, snowboards and Heelys for Christmas (helmets, too). The mild weather has been perfect for teaching my 6- and 5-year old sons how to skateboard, even though it's been a while since they're dad was shredding the half pipe at the Red Brick Inn in Plainwell. Snowboarding, on the other hand, has been a bit difficult without any snow. Once we get some, I'll have to commandeer Uncle Tony to teach them how to shred the slopes.
Tomorrow is New Year's Eve, and it amazes me another year has passed. I don't know when time started moving so fast. So many things I hope to accomplish remain unchecked on my life's to-do list. Are there enough years remaining in my humble time on this earth to do all I hope to do? O.K. Moving away now from the philosophical mumbo-jumbo.
Here are the things I am thankful for in 2006, in no particular order of importance.
- Time with my family, especially my two sons.
- The blessing of having two jobs and the ability to work to support my family.
- Good friends and loving family, who keep me going every day.
- Mountain Dew and jalapeno flavored Krunchers.
Here are my wishes for 2007, also in no particular order of importance.
- My wife, children, family, friends and co-workers have a blessed, safe and prosperous year.
- People worry less about their "rights" and start to focus on common sense and courtesy.
- We find peace; within ourselves, within our society, with other cultures and with our God.
- The continued ability to support my family and give my boys all the privileges and opportunities I was fortunate enough to have.
- More Mountain Dew and jalapeno flavored Krunchers.
Those of you who know me, know I am a sentimental sap. I'd apologize, but I can't help it. I love you all, and I wish you all a wonderful and blessed New Year.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
CONTROL + OPTION + Life
There's nothing quite like watching your children.
They can be doing anything: Eating, playing, coloring. Whatever it is, you're convinced your child is a prodigy and, surely, there are no smarter children of the same age anywhere else in the world.
My boys are both playing hockey now, and let me tell you, that illusion has come quickly crashing down. Don't get me wrong. I still well up a little bit each and every time I watch them skate, but clearly, there are better hockey players out there. I hear my dad's voice: "Son, there will always be someone better than you."
Michael is the slow and methodical skater, making sure each and every motion is done to perfection. His skills are developing but he doesn't have speed yet. Anthony, on the other hand, is all about speed. His form is ugly, and he is known as "crazy legs" in the KOHA learn-to-skate circle because of his complete inability to control most of his body as he jets around the ice at top speed.
They both make me smile and I love them both more than I ever thought possible. Perhaps that's why I'm able to laugh at their shortcomings while revelling in the absolute joy of fatherhood.
It wasn't so long ago my wife and I had the conversation about what kinds of "hockey parents" we'd be. Of course, she was convinced I'd be the dad in the stands coaching his kids, berating the other team and correcting the officials, all at the top of my generous and well-exercised lungs.
Actually, quite the opposite is true. I don't like to yell. I enjoy watching them and smiling... or frowning, if the occasion calls for it. I guess it all boils down to this: I don't need my boys to play hockey. I just want them to find something they are as passionate about as I am about hockey. The tuba, sculpture, cars, ballet or hunting. It doesn't matter what it is, as long as they're passionate about it.
But hockey was a logical place to start, don't you think?
They can be doing anything: Eating, playing, coloring. Whatever it is, you're convinced your child is a prodigy and, surely, there are no smarter children of the same age anywhere else in the world.
My boys are both playing hockey now, and let me tell you, that illusion has come quickly crashing down. Don't get me wrong. I still well up a little bit each and every time I watch them skate, but clearly, there are better hockey players out there. I hear my dad's voice: "Son, there will always be someone better than you."
Michael is the slow and methodical skater, making sure each and every motion is done to perfection. His skills are developing but he doesn't have speed yet. Anthony, on the other hand, is all about speed. His form is ugly, and he is known as "crazy legs" in the KOHA learn-to-skate circle because of his complete inability to control most of his body as he jets around the ice at top speed.
They both make me smile and I love them both more than I ever thought possible. Perhaps that's why I'm able to laugh at their shortcomings while revelling in the absolute joy of fatherhood.
It wasn't so long ago my wife and I had the conversation about what kinds of "hockey parents" we'd be. Of course, she was convinced I'd be the dad in the stands coaching his kids, berating the other team and correcting the officials, all at the top of my generous and well-exercised lungs.
Actually, quite the opposite is true. I don't like to yell. I enjoy watching them and smiling... or frowning, if the occasion calls for it. I guess it all boils down to this: I don't need my boys to play hockey. I just want them to find something they are as passionate about as I am about hockey. The tuba, sculpture, cars, ballet or hunting. It doesn't matter what it is, as long as they're passionate about it.
But hockey was a logical place to start, don't you think?
You might have heard these before, but they made me laugh
PONDERISMS
I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learned that most people die of natural causes.
Gardening Rule: When weeding, the best way to make sure you are removing a weed and not a valuable plant is to pull on it. If it comes out of the ground easily, it is a valuable plant.
The easiest way to find something lost around the house is to buy a replacement.
Never take life seriously. Nobody gets out alive anyway.
There are two kinds of pedestrians: the quick and the dead.
Life is sexually transmitted.
Health is merely the slowest possible rate at which one can die.
The only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth.
Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing.
Have you noticed since everyone has a camcorder these days no one talks about seeing UFOs like they used to?
Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.
All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to criticism.
In the 60's, people took acid to make the world weird. Now the world is weird and people take Prozac to make it normal.
How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire?
Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things here, and drink whatever comes out?"
Who was the first person to say, "See that chicken there? I'm going to eat the next thing that comes out of its butt."
Why is there a light in the fridge and not in the freezer?
If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares, why is there a song about him?
If quizzes are quizzical, what are tests?
Do illiterate people get the full effect of Alphabet Soup?
Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him on a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?
Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle?
I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learned that most people die of natural causes.
Gardening Rule: When weeding, the best way to make sure you are removing a weed and not a valuable plant is to pull on it. If it comes out of the ground easily, it is a valuable plant.
The easiest way to find something lost around the house is to buy a replacement.
Never take life seriously. Nobody gets out alive anyway.
There are two kinds of pedestrians: the quick and the dead.
Life is sexually transmitted.
Health is merely the slowest possible rate at which one can die.
The only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth.
Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing.
Have you noticed since everyone has a camcorder these days no one talks about seeing UFOs like they used to?
Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing again.
All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to criticism.
In the 60's, people took acid to make the world weird. Now the world is weird and people take Prozac to make it normal.
How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire?
Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things here, and drink whatever comes out?"
Who was the first person to say, "See that chicken there? I'm going to eat the next thing that comes out of its butt."
Why is there a light in the fridge and not in the freezer?
If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares, why is there a song about him?
If quizzes are quizzical, what are tests?
Do illiterate people get the full effect of Alphabet Soup?
Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him on a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?
Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle?
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Sorry
Apparently, the newsroom election-night slideshow link didn't work in a previous post.
Sorry about that.
It wasn't that big of a deal anyway.
Sorry about that.
It wasn't that big of a deal anyway.
Friday, November 10, 2006
A step in the right direction
Voters nationwide were so mad at Republicans, they voted the Democrats into power.
Forget what Gee-Dub said last Wednesday. It was ALL ABOUT the war in Iraq. How else can you explain the world's most liberal Republican losing to a Democrat?
But it wasn't 72 hours and already Bush was up to the same "I own the world" bulls--t. I'm not sure if he really thinks getting rid of Rummie will secure Bolton's confirmation, even if Gates has been a vocal opponent of some of the President's moves.
Ah, yes. Politics.
Forget what Gee-Dub said last Wednesday. It was ALL ABOUT the war in Iraq. How else can you explain the world's most liberal Republican losing to a Democrat?
But it wasn't 72 hours and already Bush was up to the same "I own the world" bulls--t. I'm not sure if he really thinks getting rid of Rummie will secure Bolton's confirmation, even if Gates has been a vocal opponent of some of the President's moves.
Ah, yes. Politics.
The election is over, and Democrats rule!
So, aside from my obvious elation at the Democrats reclaiming Congress, Tuesday was a long day.
And by long, I mean about 18 hours. Phew. It's over, and here's what the newsroom looked like for most of the evening.
Thanks to Dana Jacob-Carter, assistant metro editor at the Enquirer, for the cool slideshow.
Also, it's kind of ironic that I asked you all to tell me what you thought about my blog, including should I post more frequently.
That was, what, like a year ago?
And by long, I mean about 18 hours. Phew. It's over, and here's what the newsroom looked like for most of the evening.
Thanks to Dana Jacob-Carter, assistant metro editor at the Enquirer, for the cool slideshow.
Also, it's kind of ironic that I asked you all to tell me what you thought about my blog, including should I post more frequently.
That was, what, like a year ago?
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Dooce and blurbomat
So a friend directed me to read this blog, Dooce, and I went, albeit reluctantly. I've read other blogs by people who post daily or near-daily entries about their lives. I usually wind up thinking, "Who cares?" Then I remember I am one of those bloggers.
Ouch.
Now I am wondering what kinds of things people actually like to read when they visit blogs. As a reporter, I am used to reader survey information that tells us what readers want from their newspaper. But I've never actually approached blogging from that standpoint. Perhaps it's time I did.
Here are a few questions I encourage you to answer, if for no other reason than to help direct the future of The Script.
- What do you like to read?
- Which posts on The Script have been your favorites? Which ones did you like the least?
- Should there be more pictures and videos?
- If you could change anything about this blog, what would it be? Feel free to list all of your ideas.
In the meantime, I have added Dooce and the author's husband's blog, blurbomat, to my links on the right. Check them out and let me know what you think.
Oh, and GO TIGERS!
Ouch.
Now I am wondering what kinds of things people actually like to read when they visit blogs. As a reporter, I am used to reader survey information that tells us what readers want from their newspaper. But I've never actually approached blogging from that standpoint. Perhaps it's time I did.
Here are a few questions I encourage you to answer, if for no other reason than to help direct the future of The Script.
- What do you like to read?
- Which posts on The Script have been your favorites? Which ones did you like the least?
- Should there be more pictures and videos?
- If you could change anything about this blog, what would it be? Feel free to list all of your ideas.
In the meantime, I have added Dooce and the author's husband's blog, blurbomat, to my links on the right. Check them out and let me know what you think.
Oh, and GO TIGERS!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Mags comes through HUGE!
Maglio Ordonez hits a three-run, walk-off bomb and the Detroit Tigers win the American League pennant.
Unbelievable.
Way to go, guys. Good luck in the Series.
GO TIGERS!
Unbelievable.
Way to go, guys. Good luck in the Series.
GO TIGERS!
Friday, October 06, 2006
Why didn't they tell me sooner?
If any of you wonder what it's like for me to be a journalist, here's a great column by Washington Post columnist Gene Weingarten.
Not only is it insightful, it's very funny.
In response to my last post, a couple people made a point of stressing the importance of voting and being involved in the political and election process.
I submit to you that it takes more than voting and involvement. Voting, in itself, is a rather simple act, but it can't stand alone.
People who want to vote and play a role in shaping our leadership must act before and after they visit the polls.
Each person needs to make a zealous effort to educate himself or herself and independently arrive at a decision on who or what to support in each election based on his or her own values, morals and beliefs.
We cannot simply accept the talking points and platforms wholesale of either party or a special interest and expect government to be responsive to our needs and wants as a society.
We need to educate ourselves and others, which is hard work, but too many people are going to the polls and making decisions that will impact our future without enough knowledge to do so effectively.
Ignorant people are deciding my future, and that's perhaps the most disappointing part of the political culture.
Only slightly less disappointing is the fact that elected leaders, such as Pres. George W. Bush, V.P. Dick Cheney and many others, are counting on the ignorance of the masses to elect them to positions of power, from which they impose their will on the rest of us.
After we arm ourselves with knowledge and go to the polls to cast educated votes, we then have more work to do. We have to hold elected officials at all levels accountable for their actions. I'm not suggesting an armed revolt. Instead, I am encouraging us all to write to our representatives and let them know what we think. If we don't tell them, they won't know.
Here are some links to find your appropriate representatives at the various levels of government:
Michigan House of Representatives
Michigan Senate
Michigan Governor
U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Senate
President of the United States
For city officials or other states, a simple Google search should get you the right information.
Not only is it insightful, it's very funny.
In response to my last post, a couple people made a point of stressing the importance of voting and being involved in the political and election process.
I submit to you that it takes more than voting and involvement. Voting, in itself, is a rather simple act, but it can't stand alone.
People who want to vote and play a role in shaping our leadership must act before and after they visit the polls.
Each person needs to make a zealous effort to educate himself or herself and independently arrive at a decision on who or what to support in each election based on his or her own values, morals and beliefs.
We cannot simply accept the talking points and platforms wholesale of either party or a special interest and expect government to be responsive to our needs and wants as a society.
We need to educate ourselves and others, which is hard work, but too many people are going to the polls and making decisions that will impact our future without enough knowledge to do so effectively.
Ignorant people are deciding my future, and that's perhaps the most disappointing part of the political culture.
Only slightly less disappointing is the fact that elected leaders, such as Pres. George W. Bush, V.P. Dick Cheney and many others, are counting on the ignorance of the masses to elect them to positions of power, from which they impose their will on the rest of us.
After we arm ourselves with knowledge and go to the polls to cast educated votes, we then have more work to do. We have to hold elected officials at all levels accountable for their actions. I'm not suggesting an armed revolt. Instead, I am encouraging us all to write to our representatives and let them know what we think. If we don't tell them, they won't know.
Here are some links to find your appropriate representatives at the various levels of government:
Michigan House of Representatives
Michigan Senate
Michigan Governor
U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Senate
President of the United States
For city officials or other states, a simple Google search should get you the right information.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
GOP = Gross Overabundance of Power
In a Rolling Stone article, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. basically alleges Pres. G. W. Bush stole the 2004 election from John Kerry, then Kennedy backs his charge up with four pages of research.
A couple of things struck me before I even read the story: Bobby Jr. is a Democrat (he's a Kennedy, after all) and his report was published in a magazine that targets the liberal 18- to 34-year-old demographic.
With that said, I don't think the report should be dismissed out of hand. I think RFK Jr. is attempting to connect with America's grass-roots crowd, albeit through pop culture.
The article blasts Ohio's Republican leaders' handling of the 2004 presidential election, as well as exit polling. Both arguments make pretty convincing cases.
But even as Bobby Jr. points out himself, our nation's election system is far from consistent and riddles with flaws. Still, I'm inclined to believe Gee Dub and his cronies had their hands in the electoral process rather than believing there were so many mistakes in so many different places that all favored Bush.
It's not beyond our infamous Commander in Chief to lie to us. There weren't any weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Saddam Hussein didn't have anything to do with the 9/11 attacks. The list goes on and on.
As a reporter and a member of the "mass media," I am a little disappointed in how the information was ignored or swept aside without proper scrutiny. Perhaps if enough reporters in enough cities had reached enough people with the facts...
Oh, well. Here's to wishing.
I guess this teaches us all a valuable lesson. The government has only as much power as we give them, and the intelligent people haven't been paying close enough attention to the power our government has usurped from us.
We have a chance to make a difference in November. Maybe we should start taking our right to vote a little more seriously.
A couple of things struck me before I even read the story: Bobby Jr. is a Democrat (he's a Kennedy, after all) and his report was published in a magazine that targets the liberal 18- to 34-year-old demographic.
With that said, I don't think the report should be dismissed out of hand. I think RFK Jr. is attempting to connect with America's grass-roots crowd, albeit through pop culture.
The article blasts Ohio's Republican leaders' handling of the 2004 presidential election, as well as exit polling. Both arguments make pretty convincing cases.
But even as Bobby Jr. points out himself, our nation's election system is far from consistent and riddles with flaws. Still, I'm inclined to believe Gee Dub and his cronies had their hands in the electoral process rather than believing there were so many mistakes in so many different places that all favored Bush.
It's not beyond our infamous Commander in Chief to lie to us. There weren't any weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Saddam Hussein didn't have anything to do with the 9/11 attacks. The list goes on and on.
As a reporter and a member of the "mass media," I am a little disappointed in how the information was ignored or swept aside without proper scrutiny. Perhaps if enough reporters in enough cities had reached enough people with the facts...
Oh, well. Here's to wishing.
I guess this teaches us all a valuable lesson. The government has only as much power as we give them, and the intelligent people haven't been paying close enough attention to the power our government has usurped from us.
We have a chance to make a difference in November. Maybe we should start taking our right to vote a little more seriously.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Marissa has a new Web site
It's modernmontages.com and it's AWESOME! You have to check it out.
The sample clip on the Web site part of a video she made for our grandparent's 60th anniversary, so you KNOW it's quality.
If you've got any kind of milestone celebration coming up, Marissa is the chick to talk to. Obviously she's talented, and you know she's got style if she's related to me!
Oh, and in case you're wondering. That adorable baby about a quarter of the way through the sample movie, the one in the blue hat with the red ball on top, dancing in the swing?
That's right. It's me, and damn, am I cute!
The sample clip on the Web site part of a video she made for our grandparent's 60th anniversary, so you KNOW it's quality.
If you've got any kind of milestone celebration coming up, Marissa is the chick to talk to. Obviously she's talented, and you know she's got style if she's related to me!
Oh, and in case you're wondering. That adorable baby about a quarter of the way through the sample movie, the one in the blue hat with the red ball on top, dancing in the swing?
That's right. It's me, and damn, am I cute!
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
The golf was good...
The weather was so-so. The Kid Rock concert was awesome.
More than anything, I enjoyed the three days I got to spend with my little brother. I had a great time, and we didn't golf all that bad, either.
It was two weekends ago that we went to Boyne to play four courses: The Alpine, the Moor, the Ross and Crooked Tree.
They were all beautiful courses, but I think the Donald Ross Memorial was my favorite. The ProLink Satellite Yardage System was cool, although Tony will tell you it has its drawbacks.
The Kid Rock show on Saturday at Boyne Mountain was fun, too. The best part was people watching. That, and waiting for Tony to actually kick someone down the hill.
Sadly, there aren't many pictures from this year's trip, but if Tony puts them on his Web site, you'll be able to see them on MetaphysicalRockstar.com.
If you're interested in helping the cause, the third annual Schirripa Brothers Golf Trip is only 11 months and three days away. You can send donations to either President of Rock Tony Schirripa, or the Sergeant of Soul Nick Schirripa.
HA!
More than anything, I enjoyed the three days I got to spend with my little brother. I had a great time, and we didn't golf all that bad, either.
It was two weekends ago that we went to Boyne to play four courses: The Alpine, the Moor, the Ross and Crooked Tree.
They were all beautiful courses, but I think the Donald Ross Memorial was my favorite. The ProLink Satellite Yardage System was cool, although Tony will tell you it has its drawbacks.
The Kid Rock show on Saturday at Boyne Mountain was fun, too. The best part was people watching. That, and waiting for Tony to actually kick someone down the hill.
Sadly, there aren't many pictures from this year's trip, but if Tony puts them on his Web site, you'll be able to see them on MetaphysicalRockstar.com.
If you're interested in helping the cause, the third annual Schirripa Brothers Golf Trip is only 11 months and three days away. You can send donations to either President of Rock Tony Schirripa, or the Sergeant of Soul Nick Schirripa.
HA!
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
MetaphysicalRockstar updated
My brother's Web site, MetaphysicalRockstar, has been reworked with a new look and seriously updated content.
Lost of pictures, a few videos and a collection of music.
There's even a page dedicated to the stuff we've done together.
For future reference, MetaphysicalRockstar is linked in the right column of this blog.
Lost of pictures, a few videos and a collection of music.
There's even a page dedicated to the stuff we've done together.
For future reference, MetaphysicalRockstar is linked in the right column of this blog.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Feature presentation
Check out this video of the Winston Churchill Trio rockin' Ben Harper's "Steal My Kisses" at Toxic Bash 2006.
NOW SHOWING
Here are more videos from Toxic Bash, featuring the Winston Churchill Trio.
Barenaked Ladies' "Brian Wilson" and "Good Boy."
My brother e-mailed them to me, and his disclaimer was this:
"They are big files, so they take a little while to load, but it is worth it. Also, the videographer is very amateur, so don't mind the sneezing, talking, and jittery camera work."
We rock!
Barenaked Ladies' "Brian Wilson" and "Good Boy."
My brother e-mailed them to me, and his disclaimer was this:
"They are big files, so they take a little while to load, but it is worth it. Also, the videographer is very amateur, so don't mind the sneezing, talking, and jittery camera work."
We rock!
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Online shopping rules!
In case anyone is thinking about what to buy the three Schirripa boys in this household for Christmas, might I suggest anything from this page?
Friday, August 04, 2006
Some days are better than others
There are days when my job is extremely rewarding, some days are boring, some are frustrating.
And then there are a few, just a few, that are ridiculous.
Today, I wrote a story about the Calhoun County Fair, and one of the exhibits is a giant colon.
That's right. A 20-foot by 20-foot model, hand-painted to illustrate all kinds of colon-related illnesses.
It's called "Coco the Colossal Colon."
And I have to crawl through it for a story.
Oh, boy.
And then there are a few, just a few, that are ridiculous.
Today, I wrote a story about the Calhoun County Fair, and one of the exhibits is a giant colon.
That's right. A 20-foot by 20-foot model, hand-painted to illustrate all kinds of colon-related illnesses.
It's called "Coco the Colossal Colon."
And I have to crawl through it for a story.
Oh, boy.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
The Groin-inator returns to Hockeytown
Great. I thought Eddie Belfour was a bad idea, but it looks like Ken Holland and the rest of the Red Wings management has decided to go down another dark, aged and injury-plagued trail.
Don't get me wrong. Dominik Hasek was one of the game's best gladdened for, like, 15 minutes.
But at 41 years old and already known for season-threatening groin injuries, "The Dominator" may be more of a liability than an asset in net.
I hope Jimmy Howard is ready soon.
Don't get me wrong. Dominik Hasek was one of the game's best gladdened for, like, 15 minutes.
But at 41 years old and already known for season-threatening groin injuries, "The Dominator" may be more of a liability than an asset in net.
I hope Jimmy Howard is ready soon.
Concerts are supposed to be hot and sweaty, right?
The Winston Churchill Trio made its big debut Saturday at Toxic Bash, and I have to say, Tony and I were a hit.
Not nearly as fun as "Justdefy," but still fun.
We played two, three-song sets. The first was "Brian Wilson" by the Barenaked Ladies, "Janine" by Mike Doughty and "Love Song for No One" by John Mayer. The second set was the Barenaked Ladies' "Good Boy," Radiohead's "Karma Police" and Ben Harper's "Steal My Kisses."
We're awesome.
Video to follow soon. (Get on that, Tony!)
Not nearly as fun as "Justdefy," but still fun.
We played two, three-song sets. The first was "Brian Wilson" by the Barenaked Ladies, "Janine" by Mike Doughty and "Love Song for No One" by John Mayer. The second set was the Barenaked Ladies' "Good Boy," Radiohead's "Karma Police" and Ben Harper's "Steal My Kisses."
We're awesome.
Video to follow soon. (Get on that, Tony!)
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Toxic Bash
The site is up, and directions are posted.
Saturday is the day.
I expect to see you all there in time to watch the Winston Churchill Trio do amazing things with music.
Saturday is the day.
I expect to see you all there in time to watch the Winston Churchill Trio do amazing things with music.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
What? No white glove or moonwalk?
This was too funny not to share, especially if you're a child of the '80s. The Kid 'n Play two-step is almost too much. I wish I knew which wrestling "league" this is from.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Defeated by the Reuben
Today was the day. I hadn't eaten in more than 12 hours (Itself an accomplishment for me.) and I felt ready to eat my weight in Pastrami Joe's Reuben sandwiches.
It was a great crowd in Marshall, and my family was there to cheer me on.
My five minutes started, and I was off. Well, I started eating my first Reuben.
The toasted rye bread, the Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing dripping, and all of that Sy Ginsberg corned beef.
I was loving every bite, going as fast as I could, ready to see that second plate with a fresh sandwich fall in front of me. I AM GOING TO TAKE OVER THE WORLD, ONE REUBEN SANDWICH AT A TIME!
I only ate one sandwich, and the guy who won the amateur competition -- Jake "The Butcher" Casey -- ate three.
I am such a disappointment to those who love me.
It was a great crowd in Marshall, and my family was there to cheer me on.
My five minutes started, and I was off. Well, I started eating my first Reuben.
The toasted rye bread, the Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing dripping, and all of that Sy Ginsberg corned beef.
I was loving every bite, going as fast as I could, ready to see that second plate with a fresh sandwich fall in front of me. I AM GOING TO TAKE OVER THE WORLD, ONE REUBEN SANDWICH AT A TIME!
I only ate one sandwich, and the guy who won the amateur competition -- Jake "The Butcher" Casey -- ate three.
I am such a disappointment to those who love me.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Yeah, golf!
So, 39 days until Tony and I are golfing at Boyne. 72 holes in two days. I CAN'T WAIT!
I also can start posting videos on "The Script," so in honor of the upcoming golf trip, the first video on this blog is of my favorite golf shot.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
The Eagle may take (Red) Wing
I know Manny's career as a Red Wing is over, but oh, dear God. Not this.
Eddie Belfour in Detroit? What the H-E-double hockey sticks is going on?!
I understand the Wings are looking to put someone between the pipes until Jimmy Howard is ready to be the next starter, but Belfour is 41 years old and is coming off a back surgery.
Eddie would be an average goalie at best and likely will get more penalty minutes than Chris Chelios. Not to mention the fact his penchant for off-ice antics will make for a public-relations nightmare.
The Wings have signed Chris Osgood for two more years, but will he and Belfour battle for the starting job? Talk about the lesser of two evils.
The good news is the Red Wings don't appear to be interested in Dominick Hasek, even though his people are lobbying hard in Detroit for a deal.
I may have to start cheering for the New York (Shutter... Gulp...) Rangers.
Eddie Belfour in Detroit? What the H-E-double hockey sticks is going on?!
I understand the Wings are looking to put someone between the pipes until Jimmy Howard is ready to be the next starter, but Belfour is 41 years old and is coming off a back surgery.
Eddie would be an average goalie at best and likely will get more penalty minutes than Chris Chelios. Not to mention the fact his penchant for off-ice antics will make for a public-relations nightmare.
The Wings have signed Chris Osgood for two more years, but will he and Belfour battle for the starting job? Talk about the lesser of two evils.
The good news is the Red Wings don't appear to be interested in Dominick Hasek, even though his people are lobbying hard in Detroit for a deal.
I may have to start cheering for the New York (Shutter... Gulp...) Rangers.
Reuben, anyone?
Only four days until chow time, kids, and I can'’t even begin to tell you how excited I am.
For those of you who haven't read Robert Warner'’s column from Sunday, Cranky Bob and I will be donning bibs to compete in Pastrami Joe'’s first ever World Reuben Eating Championship on Saturday in Marshall.
Starting at 2 p.m., I will be eating as many of P.J.'s delicious Reuben sandwiches as I can in eight minutes. I'm guessing two sandwiches, which I don't think will be enough to win the amateur contest I'm in.
I say amateur contest because after we rookies are done, there's a professional eaters contest, and these cats are thinking they'll eat seven or eight of these Reubens in eight minutes.
I guess I'm more of a distance eater than a sprinter.
I wrote a story about the event. You know, FYI. It's a fund-raising event for the Child Advocacy Center of Calhoun County.
Pastrami Joe'’s has started a blog about the competition. It makes for fun reading.
Hope to see you there. Click here for directions.
For those of you who haven't read Robert Warner'’s column from Sunday, Cranky Bob and I will be donning bibs to compete in Pastrami Joe'’s first ever World Reuben Eating Championship on Saturday in Marshall.
Starting at 2 p.m., I will be eating as many of P.J.'s delicious Reuben sandwiches as I can in eight minutes. I'm guessing two sandwiches, which I don't think will be enough to win the amateur contest I'm in.
I say amateur contest because after we rookies are done, there's a professional eaters contest, and these cats are thinking they'll eat seven or eight of these Reubens in eight minutes.
I guess I'm more of a distance eater than a sprinter.
I wrote a story about the event. You know, FYI. It's a fund-raising event for the Child Advocacy Center of Calhoun County.
Pastrami Joe'’s has started a blog about the competition. It makes for fun reading.
Hope to see you there. Click here for directions.
Monday, July 10, 2006
No more jigs for Shanny
First Yzerman retires, now Brendan Shanahan is leaving for Broadway.
What's a Red Wings fan to do?
I would be more upset if it was a money thing or if Shanny just couldn't find it within himself to get along with coach Mike Babcock, but it's none of those things.
Mitch Albom's column makes it clear that Shanny just felt his time in Detroit has come to an end.
It'll be hard to watch him get to the golf course early next year when the Rangers don't even make the playoffs.
What's a Red Wings fan to do?
I would be more upset if it was a money thing or if Shanny just couldn't find it within himself to get along with coach Mike Babcock, but it's none of those things.
Mitch Albom's column makes it clear that Shanny just felt his time in Detroit has come to an end.
It'll be hard to watch him get to the golf course early next year when the Rangers don't even make the playoffs.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Some fond memories
Here is a great collection of Steve Yzerman videos.
This is one of my favorites.
And here is Yzerman's announcement.
This is one of my favorites.
And here is Yzerman's announcement.
Monday, July 03, 2006
It's a sad day
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
The Winston Churchill Trio
Or "WC3," as we call ourselves. Catchy, huh?
The "we" I speak of is my little brother, Tony, and me. We are performing in this year's Toxic Bash on Saturday, July 29.
For directions and more info, check out the Web site (as soon as it's operational).
Maybe you'd even like to buy some Toxic Bash gear.
The "we" I speak of is my little brother, Tony, and me. We are performing in this year's Toxic Bash on Saturday, July 29.
For directions and more info, check out the Web site (as soon as it's operational).
Maybe you'd even like to buy some Toxic Bash gear.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Google is a wonderful thing
A few people have asked me how they can read my work. Unfortunately, if you don't live in the Battle Creek area, you have to look at the Enquirer's Web site.
Instead of searching through the site, looking at most of the stories to find which ones I've written, you can set up a Google news alert.
The alert will do the searching for you and deliver the headlines and links to your e-mail every day.
If you are interested, go to Google Alerts to create your customized alert. Enter the search terms:
Nick Schirripa source:battle_creek_enquirer
Don't forget your e-mail address. You want to search "News" and "once a day," so don't change those.
I have set up alerts for Mom, Dad and Angie. I hope they will leave comments on this post letting me know how they are working for them and if any changes need to be made.
Instead of searching through the site, looking at most of the stories to find which ones I've written, you can set up a Google news alert.
The alert will do the searching for you and deliver the headlines and links to your e-mail every day.
If you are interested, go to Google Alerts to create your customized alert. Enter the search terms:
Nick Schirripa source:battle_creek_enquirer
Don't forget your e-mail address. You want to search "News" and "once a day," so don't change those.
I have set up alerts for Mom, Dad and Angie. I hope they will leave comments on this post letting me know how they are working for them and if any changes need to be made.
1984?
With all the hype over the Stanley Cup, NBA finals and soccer's FIFA World Cup, our Detroit Tigers have been quietly amassing 50 wins to lead the American League.
Now, with no other Detroit (or U.S.) teams competing, the Tigers should have our full attention. This may be the team's best chance in more than 20 years to take the A.L. Pennant and return to the World Series.
It's a little sad, though, that this also is the year the fate of the old Tiger's Stadium has apparently been decided. I have several fond memories -- and a baseball hit by the Brewer's Ted Simmons -- from Tiger's Stadium. Sometimes, it's hard to say, "Good-bye."
Does this mean we may see the perennial-loser Lions make a playoff appearance, too?
Now, with no other Detroit (or U.S.) teams competing, the Tigers should have our full attention. This may be the team's best chance in more than 20 years to take the A.L. Pennant and return to the World Series.
It's a little sad, though, that this also is the year the fate of the old Tiger's Stadium has apparently been decided. I have several fond memories -- and a baseball hit by the Brewer's Ted Simmons -- from Tiger's Stadium. Sometimes, it's hard to say, "Good-bye."
Does this mean we may see the perennial-loser Lions make a playoff appearance, too?
Friday, June 23, 2006
Lord Stanley's Cup
It was hard to watch my Red Wings lose in the first round of the playoffs to the Oilers of Edmonton, and it was almost as difficult to watch the Oilers lose game 7 in the finals on Monday to the Carolina Hurricanes.
But, if the game has taught me anything, it's to respect the winners. Plus, with the men of the Winged Wheel out of the picture, it didn't realy matter who won.
It was nice to see the Stanley Cup make an appearance after a year off, and it was great to see Rod Brind'Amour, a one-year Michigan State Spartan in the CCHA, hoist the cup after 17 long years in the league.
Welcome back, NHL, and here's to a great season.
But, if the game has taught me anything, it's to respect the winners. Plus, with the men of the Winged Wheel out of the picture, it didn't realy matter who won.
It was nice to see the Stanley Cup make an appearance after a year off, and it was great to see Rod Brind'Amour, a one-year Michigan State Spartan in the CCHA, hoist the cup after 17 long years in the league.
Welcome back, NHL, and here's to a great season.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Lights out!
Go here, and check out the hit the Buffalo Sabres' Brian Campbell delivered to R. J. Umberger from the Philadelphia Flyers On April 22 ("Campbell checks Umberger." It's about half-way down the page under the heading, "Just" a check.).
While I kind of understand why all the Flyers decided it was necessary to defend Umberger after the fact, I hope everyone realized the next day that it was a clean hit. Really, you have to blame the Flyers' Niko Dimitrakos for the pass that set Umberger up for the hit.
God, I love this game!
While I kind of understand why all the Flyers decided it was necessary to defend Umberger after the fact, I hope everyone realized the next day that it was a clean hit. Really, you have to blame the Flyers' Niko Dimitrakos for the pass that set Umberger up for the hit.
God, I love this game!
What a beautiful game
Many of you may already know of my love of hockey. Many people play hockey, but it takes something special to be a hockey player. It's a game of many skills, not the least of which is scrapping.
Once you're at the site, click on the videos link on the left, then just pick a video or two and enjoy.
If you're feeling a little adventurous, join the forum. It's free and you can see even more videos.
Once you're at the site, click on the videos link on the left, then just pick a video or two and enjoy.
If you're feeling a little adventurous, join the forum. It's free and you can see even more videos.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
For your (laughing) pleasure
I know, I know. It has been a month since the last post.
But when a brother comes back with something, he comes packing the laughs!
But when a brother comes back with something, he comes packing the laughs!
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Almost 30!
Today, my little brother turned 29.
He's my hero, and I couldn't have asked for a better friend, confidante, teammate and role model.
I love you, Tony, and I'm proud to be your brother.
Happy birthday, Bro.
Friday, March 10, 2006
This is a good month
March is a great month and features many great birthdays.
Here are a few of the wonderful people born in March and the dates:
3: Jackie Terpstra
7: Michael Schirripa
9: Mike Terpstra
10: Gabriel Stewart
16: Tony Schirripa
19: Kris Schirripa
24: Dave Stewart
I picked today to note these birthdays because today is my birthday.
32. That's me. The birthday boy.
Another year completed, and they just keep getting better, if not shorter.
Happy birthday to all my fellow March-ers. You are remembered and loved.
Here are a few of the wonderful people born in March and the dates:
3: Jackie Terpstra
7: Michael Schirripa
9: Mike Terpstra
10: Gabriel Stewart
16: Tony Schirripa
19: Kris Schirripa
24: Dave Stewart
I picked today to note these birthdays because today is my birthday.
32. That's me. The birthday boy.
Another year completed, and they just keep getting better, if not shorter.
Happy birthday to all my fellow March-ers. You are remembered and loved.
Monday, March 06, 2006
I knew him when...
Scott Johnson is a former Portage Central Mustang and now is a referee.
Nice guy, but you've got to read about how lucky he got this past weekend.
Nice guy, but you've got to read about how lucky he got this past weekend.
I'm in the record books
Well, at least the game will be.
I lined a regional high school championship game Saturday, and the refs were Paul Rigby and Stu Lewis.
The Grand Rapids Catholic Central Cougars were heavily favored over the Mattawan Wildcats. Six overtimes, 86 minutes and 55 seconds later, Mattawan lost 4-3.
According to the Michigan High School Athletic Association record books, the longest game before Saturday's was the Davison vs. Port Huron Northern game on March 2, 1991, that lasted 86 minutes and 49 seconds.
An interesting note, another record-holding game is the Feb. 28. 1989 game between Kalamazoo Loy Norrix and Kalamazoo Central. After 72:19, Loy Norrix won 3-2.
I lined a regional high school championship game Saturday, and the refs were Paul Rigby and Stu Lewis.
The Grand Rapids Catholic Central Cougars were heavily favored over the Mattawan Wildcats. Six overtimes, 86 minutes and 55 seconds later, Mattawan lost 4-3.
According to the Michigan High School Athletic Association record books, the longest game before Saturday's was the Davison vs. Port Huron Northern game on March 2, 1991, that lasted 86 minutes and 49 seconds.
An interesting note, another record-holding game is the Feb. 28. 1989 game between Kalamazoo Loy Norrix and Kalamazoo Central. After 72:19, Loy Norrix won 3-2.
Monday, February 20, 2006
New meaning to cartoon violence
I remember watching Elmer Fudd chasing Bugs Bunny with his shotgun blaring, or Sylvester the Cat trying to make a meal out of Tweety Bird.
Cartoon violence is one thing, but now people are killing each other over a cartoon depicting the Prophet Mohammed wearing bomb-shaped turban.
The cartoon was originally published in a Danish newspaper last September, but Muslims around the world have protested, crying foul about the infringement of their religious beliefs.
While the staff of the offending paper has apologized, as has the Danish government, journalists and editors around the world are defending free speech.
In the Sunday Washington Post, Danish editor Flemming Rose explained his paper's decision to publish the cartoon.
He said: "When I visit a mosque, I show my respect by taking off my shoes. I follow the customs, just as I do in a church, synagogue or other holy place. But if a believer demands that I, as a nonbeliever, observe his taboos in the public domain, he is not asking for my respect, but for my submission. And that is incompatible with a secular democracy."
But sensitivity to possible offense is running so high right now, an African state has banned a planned protest. How's that for free speech infringement?
Where do we draw the line? Why are some Muslims so upset about a cartoon?
Cartoon violence is one thing, but now people are killing each other over a cartoon depicting the Prophet Mohammed wearing bomb-shaped turban.
The cartoon was originally published in a Danish newspaper last September, but Muslims around the world have protested, crying foul about the infringement of their religious beliefs.
While the staff of the offending paper has apologized, as has the Danish government, journalists and editors around the world are defending free speech.
In the Sunday Washington Post, Danish editor Flemming Rose explained his paper's decision to publish the cartoon.
He said: "When I visit a mosque, I show my respect by taking off my shoes. I follow the customs, just as I do in a church, synagogue or other holy place. But if a believer demands that I, as a nonbeliever, observe his taboos in the public domain, he is not asking for my respect, but for my submission. And that is incompatible with a secular democracy."
But sensitivity to possible offense is running so high right now, an African state has banned a planned protest. How's that for free speech infringement?
Where do we draw the line? Why are some Muslims so upset about a cartoon?
Monday, February 13, 2006
Another year, another Polar Bear Splash! The guy on the left is Rick Merrit, a hockey buddy. The guy on the right... Well, you all know who he is.
This was taken at The 2006 Quincy Chain of Lakes Tip-Up Festival, which was pretty much a bust because of the lack of ice.
I talked The Ricker into taking the New Year's Day Splash with me in Goguac Lake and he had so much fun (chuckle) he agreed to come with me to Quincy.
Just thought you'd enjoy another picture of the fat guy in cold water. Thanks to Enquirer photographer Doug Allen for the art.
A little scary
I just got this Web site in an e-mail from my dad. The Family Watchdog has compiled the National Sex Offender Registry into a map. Simply enter your address and the site will generate a map showing the locations of all the registered sex offenders near your home. Click on one of the colored boxes, and a window pops up giving all the information about the offender; name, address, age, height, weight and offense.
I guess I am a little torn about this kind of stuff. As a parent, I think I want to know where these people are and what kind of contact they may have with my kids.
At the same time, it seems a little invasive. How many of these people just made a mistake? I'm sure there are some who are ill and still pose a threat to society, but I would venture a guess that many of them simply made a poor choice and aren't prone to be repeat offenders.
With Web sites like this, the folks who are not a danger are lumped in with the sickos and branded as the like.
I guess I like the knowledge presented by the site, but I am a little worried that we, as a society, are becoming too scared.
People like these have existed for a few thousand years, I would assume, but how many people who visit this site are going to be even MORE paranoid than they already were? Is it possible we're feeding a fear that leads us down an individually isolationist path? Are we going to start doing background checks on everyone to make sure our children are with people of only the highest character and morals?
Like I said, I'm torn.
I guess I am a little torn about this kind of stuff. As a parent, I think I want to know where these people are and what kind of contact they may have with my kids.
At the same time, it seems a little invasive. How many of these people just made a mistake? I'm sure there are some who are ill and still pose a threat to society, but I would venture a guess that many of them simply made a poor choice and aren't prone to be repeat offenders.
With Web sites like this, the folks who are not a danger are lumped in with the sickos and branded as the like.
I guess I like the knowledge presented by the site, but I am a little worried that we, as a society, are becoming too scared.
People like these have existed for a few thousand years, I would assume, but how many people who visit this site are going to be even MORE paranoid than they already were? Is it possible we're feeding a fear that leads us down an individually isolationist path? Are we going to start doing background checks on everyone to make sure our children are with people of only the highest character and morals?
Like I said, I'm torn.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
I got a tattoo. I know, I know. It's permanent. But I've been considering a tattoo incorporating my children's names or something since before Michael was even born. It's on my right bicep, and along with the names are olive branches to honor our Italian heritage. I got it done at New Addiction here in Kalamazoo by Chris. He's a great artist, and he really helped me develop the final look of the tattoo. It hurt A LOT, especially the underside of my arm, but it was well worth it. I LOVE IT!
Friday, February 10, 2006
Sunday, January 22, 2006
They call the thing Rodeo
Today I covered a bull riding show in Battle Creek. I know it may surprise many of you -- it shocked the hell out of me -- but it was awesome.
It's not the gory bull- fighting traditionally seen in Spain or Mexico, but a quite humane competition between the riders and bulls, who are athletes in their own right.
Sure there is some uncomfortable cinching of genitals to get the bulls a little more riled than usual, but I guarantee the riders come away with more discomfort and injury than the bull ever will.
I got to talk with some of the bull riders, the bull fighters (NOT rodeo clowns!), the judges and even get right up next to the bulls. They are HUGE! It's a lot easier to appreciate 2,000 pounds of bovine when it's staring you in the face only a few inches away.
The Ring of Fear is aptly named as ten participants enter a 40-foot diameter ring in the dirt and one bull has his way with them. The last man or woman (yes, there was a woman in the ring) left in the ring wins $500. Huh. That just doesn't seem like enough.
Cowboy Poker involves gambling but no cards. The bull came out of the chute and immediately floored two of the guys at the table. The other two sat motionless and the bull even passed close enough to brush the back of both men's heads with a horn. Eventually, one guy was tossed a few feet and the last guy seated took home $100.
Mutton Bustin' is one of the funniest things I've ever seen. I guess it has something to do with small children, between the ages of 4 and 6, clinging to the backs of sheep that are running at full speed.
If you ever get the chance to go to a bull riding show, I urge you to do so.
It's odd how you can find yourself enjoying something you never thought you had an interest in... Kind of like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
It's not the gory bull- fighting traditionally seen in Spain or Mexico, but a quite humane competition between the riders and bulls, who are athletes in their own right.
Sure there is some uncomfortable cinching of genitals to get the bulls a little more riled than usual, but I guarantee the riders come away with more discomfort and injury than the bull ever will.
I got to talk with some of the bull riders, the bull fighters (NOT rodeo clowns!), the judges and even get right up next to the bulls. They are HUGE! It's a lot easier to appreciate 2,000 pounds of bovine when it's staring you in the face only a few inches away.
The Ring of Fear is aptly named as ten participants enter a 40-foot diameter ring in the dirt and one bull has his way with them. The last man or woman (yes, there was a woman in the ring) left in the ring wins $500. Huh. That just doesn't seem like enough.
Cowboy Poker involves gambling but no cards. The bull came out of the chute and immediately floored two of the guys at the table. The other two sat motionless and the bull even passed close enough to brush the back of both men's heads with a horn. Eventually, one guy was tossed a few feet and the last guy seated took home $100.
Mutton Bustin' is one of the funniest things I've ever seen. I guess it has something to do with small children, between the ages of 4 and 6, clinging to the backs of sheep that are running at full speed.
If you ever get the chance to go to a bull riding show, I urge you to do so.
It's odd how you can find yourself enjoying something you never thought you had an interest in... Kind of like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
From my brother, Tony, second from the right:
"I thought this was pretty cool. Because the place where I work is one of the largest military R&D firms in the state, U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) came to visit. She was discussing the possability of further funding one of our projects, and looking at a few of the other things we are working on. I found it to be an interesting experience, and thought I would share the picture with you."
Please note, the picture above Sen. Stabenow's head is of Michael and Anthony. Even cooler.
It's in the genes!
Michael is half-way through his first year of KOHA learn-to-skate and beginning hockey.
Man, I almost cry every time I see him on skates. It's awesome!
I am trying to get some pictures to post, so keep checking.
He's #15 on the Sharp Shop team. He picked his own number, so be sure to give a shout-out to 15 when you see him.
Anthony is well on his way to starting next year, and I already have started apologizing to anyone who might be his coach next fall. The kid is going to be a terror!
Yea, Schirripa boys! Ice hockey will never be the same.
Man, I almost cry every time I see him on skates. It's awesome!
I am trying to get some pictures to post, so keep checking.
He's #15 on the Sharp Shop team. He picked his own number, so be sure to give a shout-out to 15 when you see him.
Anthony is well on his way to starting next year, and I already have started apologizing to anyone who might be his coach next fall. The kid is going to be a terror!
Yea, Schirripa boys! Ice hockey will never be the same.
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