SmartPhone again...
I made the purchase. I'm in Des Moines teaching a class, and over lunch yesterday, I decided to roam the local mall. I found a T-Mobile store, and so I wandered in and asked if they had the PocketPC phone. "This is your lucky day," said the fellow behind the counter. They had gotten one in that morning, the only one they've had in the last six months. This is the new version with Pocket PC 2003 OS installed. I plunked down my $400 and walked away with a new toy.
I've been trying to become accustomed to this new device. The obvious advantages of having this thing are many. If you use a PDA, it's great to have your calendar, contact information and inbox all accessible on this small device that you can carry with you wherever you go. The problem I've found is that I end up not carrying it around everywhere, and as such, I don't use it like I should. The device that I do carry with me everywhere I go is my cell phone. So, if the cell phone were also a PDA, wouldn't that force me to start using it? I would hope so.
The PocketPC phone edition is capable of sync'ing to my company's Exchange server. So, no matter where I am, I have access to my inbox, calendar and contacts. When new emails arrive, my phone notifies me, and I can respond.
This works great - when it works. I've been having difficulty with getting the sync to work with our server. It was failing everytime I tried a sync, but then this afternoon, it started working. I foolishly reset my device, and now it's failing again. :(
So, after about 24 hours of tinkering, the jury is still out. So far, I do like the device. It's compact, fits nicely in my pocket, works great as a phone. It came with a case for clipping it to my belt, but I'm not sure I'm ready to announce my geekdom to that extent just yet. If the sync issue can be worked out (and hopefully, my company's admins are willing to work with me on it), I think it'd be the perfect tool. Especially for someone who finds himself in airports fairly frequently.
Stay tuned, since I do have a 14 day trial period...
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Friday, March 26, 2004
SmartPhone Update
I visited the Verizon store yesterday to learn more about their PocketPC Phone. Verizon offers the Samsung SCH-I700 PocketPC phone which, to me, is the best device on the market today. I saw the device in the store. It's fairly slim, small and light for the functionality it packs (PDA, phone, camera, etc).
The price of the phone is similar to the Hitachi G1000 that Sprint offers - around $600. I was ready to purchase until I checked into the monthly service fees. Verizon, like T-Mobile, offers a calling plan and then you can add internet access to the plan. T-Mobile's internet add-on runs about $20 per month. Verizon's internet add-on runs $80 per month. A huge disparity there. The total monthly charge for Verizon (calling plan plus internet) would run around $120 per month, compared to T-Mobile's $60 per month.
I may go with T-Mobile, since their phone is the only one running the new Pocket PC 2003 Phone Edition and their monthly service is reasonable.
Stay tuned....
I visited the Verizon store yesterday to learn more about their PocketPC Phone. Verizon offers the Samsung SCH-I700 PocketPC phone which, to me, is the best device on the market today. I saw the device in the store. It's fairly slim, small and light for the functionality it packs (PDA, phone, camera, etc).
The price of the phone is similar to the Hitachi G1000 that Sprint offers - around $600. I was ready to purchase until I checked into the monthly service fees. Verizon, like T-Mobile, offers a calling plan and then you can add internet access to the plan. T-Mobile's internet add-on runs about $20 per month. Verizon's internet add-on runs $80 per month. A huge disparity there. The total monthly charge for Verizon (calling plan plus internet) would run around $120 per month, compared to T-Mobile's $60 per month.
I may go with T-Mobile, since their phone is the only one running the new Pocket PC 2003 Phone Edition and their monthly service is reasonable.
Stay tuned....
Affeldt
Last night, in a rare night game in Arizona, the Royals played the Angels to an 8-8 tie in 11 innings. Jeremy Affeldt got the start for the Royals, and while he got knocked around a little bit (11 hits, 5 runs, 2 walks, 3 strikeouts in 5 innings), the good news is that he threw 88 pitches with no sign of irritation on his troublesome middle finger.
It was interesting to hear his remarks during the radio broadcast of the game last night. He said that he feld good and that the curveball was coming out of his hand good, but the dry air prevented it from breaking the way it should. He was confident that once they head to KC and get into more humid air, his pitches will all be working well. When we saw him pitch in Surprise a couple of weeks ago, I noticed his curveball wasn't quite as good as it normally is.
It might be interesting to look at how pitchers do at Bank One Ballpark in Phoenix, compared to other, more humid cities.
Last night, in a rare night game in Arizona, the Royals played the Angels to an 8-8 tie in 11 innings. Jeremy Affeldt got the start for the Royals, and while he got knocked around a little bit (11 hits, 5 runs, 2 walks, 3 strikeouts in 5 innings), the good news is that he threw 88 pitches with no sign of irritation on his troublesome middle finger.
It was interesting to hear his remarks during the radio broadcast of the game last night. He said that he feld good and that the curveball was coming out of his hand good, but the dry air prevented it from breaking the way it should. He was confident that once they head to KC and get into more humid air, his pitches will all be working well. When we saw him pitch in Surprise a couple of weeks ago, I noticed his curveball wasn't quite as good as it normally is.
It might be interesting to look at how pitchers do at Bank One Ballpark in Phoenix, compared to other, more humid cities.
Thursday, March 25, 2004
Smart and Smarter Phones
After spending a few days in Arizona with Dan Fox, I began to realize how nice it would be to have a smarter phone.
Dan has the T-Mobile PocketPC Phone. We were both in the desert to get away from work and enjoy some Cactus League baseball, but we also both needed to periodically check email.
I have a Samsung N400 on SprintPCS. With my phone, I can access the "wireless web" and log into Quilogy's wireless intranet. From there, I can access a company directory, look at recent sales numbers, etc. I can also access my Exchange Inbox and read, delete and reply to emails. Sounds fine, however it actually quite difficult. One issue is that when I access the intranet, I need to peck in my username and password. My user name consists partially of my last name, which is 9 characters long. Using a numeric keypad to enter that is quite cumbersome. Additionally, I need to re-enter my username and password to log into Exchange. I can then read and delete emails easily enough, but replying presents the same problems with typing. (as an example, to type "Quilogy," I would have to peck 77884445556664999.)
Meanwhile, Dan was checking email on a device that presented a larger, easier to read screen. Also, the device is pre-configured with his username and password, so he simply needs to "sync," and the device automatically syncs his Exchange information. Not just email, but also contacts and calendar information, which I have to keep separately if I want that information on my phone. His phone also includes the convenience of being able to dial directly from his Exchange Contact list.
Of course, the downside is that I had a nice, small phone that clipped to my belt. He had a larger device that he kept in his pocket.
So, since returning from Arizona, I've been researching various phone/PDA combinations to see if one of these devices would be right for me. Off the bat, I felt I wanted a PocketPC phone. I've been using a PocketPC off and on for a couple of years. There are things about it that just can't be beat. Now that the Microsoft Compact Framework and other development tools for mobility are available, I'm also excited about being able to write custom applications for my device. My current carrier is SprintPCS, so I checked their web site to see what kind of PDA Phones they had available.
The options with Sprint are basically the huge and heavy Hitachi G1000 and the poorly reviewed Toshiba 2032. The Hitachi has a builtin thumb-board for easier input, but adding that makes the device really too big to carry everywhere you go, IMO. The Toshiba doesn't run PocketPC Phone Edition, rather it runs the standard PocketPC OS with proprietary phone softward built on top of it. I've seen nothing but poor reviews for this Toshiba.
Another carrier in my area, Verizon, seems to be ahead of the curve on devices. They are currently offering both a PocketPC phone as well as a SmartPhone. The SmartPhone is a newer device. Like the PocketPC, it can sync to my Exchange so it has my calendar, contacts and email, but it has a smaller form factor, much like a standard cell phone. It doesn't have a touch screen, so unlike the PocketPC where you tap the screen to interact, the SmartPhone uses buttons and the numeric keypad for input.
Verizon is offering the Samsung SCH-I600 SmartPhone and the Samsung SCH-I700 PocketPC Phone. The I600 is the only SmartPhone available in my area, that I am aware of, and the I700 is the most advanced PocketPC phone available.
Finally, TMobile, who was the first to offer the PocketPC phone, is still offering their phone, but now offers it with the new PocketPC 2003 OS.
After muddling through all of the information, I'm not sure I've decided what device is right for me. It seems all devices offer something of value, but none seem to offer everything.
In the meantime, I'll keep pecking away...
After spending a few days in Arizona with Dan Fox, I began to realize how nice it would be to have a smarter phone.
Dan has the T-Mobile PocketPC Phone. We were both in the desert to get away from work and enjoy some Cactus League baseball, but we also both needed to periodically check email.
I have a Samsung N400 on SprintPCS. With my phone, I can access the "wireless web" and log into Quilogy's wireless intranet. From there, I can access a company directory, look at recent sales numbers, etc. I can also access my Exchange Inbox and read, delete and reply to emails. Sounds fine, however it actually quite difficult. One issue is that when I access the intranet, I need to peck in my username and password. My user name consists partially of my last name, which is 9 characters long. Using a numeric keypad to enter that is quite cumbersome. Additionally, I need to re-enter my username and password to log into Exchange. I can then read and delete emails easily enough, but replying presents the same problems with typing. (as an example, to type "Quilogy," I would have to peck 77884445556664999.)
Meanwhile, Dan was checking email on a device that presented a larger, easier to read screen. Also, the device is pre-configured with his username and password, so he simply needs to "sync," and the device automatically syncs his Exchange information. Not just email, but also contacts and calendar information, which I have to keep separately if I want that information on my phone. His phone also includes the convenience of being able to dial directly from his Exchange Contact list.
Of course, the downside is that I had a nice, small phone that clipped to my belt. He had a larger device that he kept in his pocket.
So, since returning from Arizona, I've been researching various phone/PDA combinations to see if one of these devices would be right for me. Off the bat, I felt I wanted a PocketPC phone. I've been using a PocketPC off and on for a couple of years. There are things about it that just can't be beat. Now that the Microsoft Compact Framework and other development tools for mobility are available, I'm also excited about being able to write custom applications for my device. My current carrier is SprintPCS, so I checked their web site to see what kind of PDA Phones they had available.
The options with Sprint are basically the huge and heavy Hitachi G1000 and the poorly reviewed Toshiba 2032. The Hitachi has a builtin thumb-board for easier input, but adding that makes the device really too big to carry everywhere you go, IMO. The Toshiba doesn't run PocketPC Phone Edition, rather it runs the standard PocketPC OS with proprietary phone softward built on top of it. I've seen nothing but poor reviews for this Toshiba.
Another carrier in my area, Verizon, seems to be ahead of the curve on devices. They are currently offering both a PocketPC phone as well as a SmartPhone. The SmartPhone is a newer device. Like the PocketPC, it can sync to my Exchange so it has my calendar, contacts and email, but it has a smaller form factor, much like a standard cell phone. It doesn't have a touch screen, so unlike the PocketPC where you tap the screen to interact, the SmartPhone uses buttons and the numeric keypad for input.
Verizon is offering the Samsung SCH-I600 SmartPhone and the Samsung SCH-I700 PocketPC Phone. The I600 is the only SmartPhone available in my area, that I am aware of, and the I700 is the most advanced PocketPC phone available.
Finally, TMobile, who was the first to offer the PocketPC phone, is still offering their phone, but now offers it with the new PocketPC 2003 OS.
After muddling through all of the information, I'm not sure I've decided what device is right for me. It seems all devices offer something of value, but none seem to offer everything.
In the meantime, I'll keep pecking away...
Tuesday, March 23, 2004
Hot Dogs
Here's a pet peeve for me. You're at the stadium enjoying a game. You decide to head to the concession stand for a hot dog and a drink. You agree to also pick up some extra items for your friends or family.
So you wait in line, and finally order 3 or 4 hot dogs, a few sodas, and some nachos. The hot dogs are nicely wrapped in foil, keeping them warm. The problem is that you want some ketchup and mustard for your dogs. No worries, right? You'll just grab a few packets and head back to your seats.
But, no...
You find that to get mustard and ketchup, you need to walk to the condiment station. There, you wait for the other folks to finish so you can elbow your way in. Then, you have to unwrap all of your hot dogs and squirt the mustard and ketchup on them. But the mustard is usually on the opposite side of the table from the ketchup. And one of the two is usually empty or otherwise non-functional. Once you get the condiments dispensed, you then wrap your dogs back in the supplied foil.
When you get back to your seats and unwrap your dogs, the mustard and ketchup is no longer on the dog, but all over the foil.
Annoying! Is it really that expensive to provide ketchup and mustard packets so folks can apply their condiments at their seats?
Interestingly, Surprise Stadium (where the Royals play their Spring Training games) implements the condiment station described above, however, their hot dogs are served unwrapped in a paper basket. That's a little better, since the unwrapping/rewrapping/unwrapping process is eliminated.
Here's a pet peeve for me. You're at the stadium enjoying a game. You decide to head to the concession stand for a hot dog and a drink. You agree to also pick up some extra items for your friends or family.
So you wait in line, and finally order 3 or 4 hot dogs, a few sodas, and some nachos. The hot dogs are nicely wrapped in foil, keeping them warm. The problem is that you want some ketchup and mustard for your dogs. No worries, right? You'll just grab a few packets and head back to your seats.
But, no...
You find that to get mustard and ketchup, you need to walk to the condiment station. There, you wait for the other folks to finish so you can elbow your way in. Then, you have to unwrap all of your hot dogs and squirt the mustard and ketchup on them. But the mustard is usually on the opposite side of the table from the ketchup. And one of the two is usually empty or otherwise non-functional. Once you get the condiments dispensed, you then wrap your dogs back in the supplied foil.
When you get back to your seats and unwrap your dogs, the mustard and ketchup is no longer on the dog, but all over the foil.
Annoying! Is it really that expensive to provide ketchup and mustard packets so folks can apply their condiments at their seats?
Interestingly, Surprise Stadium (where the Royals play their Spring Training games) implements the condiment station described above, however, their hot dogs are served unwrapped in a paper basket. That's a little better, since the unwrapping/rewrapping/unwrapping process is eliminated.
Thursday, March 18, 2004
Spring Training
We just returned from Arizona where we took in some Cactus League ball games. On Sunday, we arrived and drove straight to Scottsdale to see the Cubs take on the Giants. Since we had just come from KC, the 90 degree heat was pretty tough to take. Plus, our seats were way down the third base line in the bleachers. We ended up spending most of the game walking around in the shade and smearing on the sun screen. The Giants ended up winning the game 11-3.
On Monday, we drove to Mesa and arrived early enough to see the Cubs Minor Leaguers in their workouts. My son Joey was pleased when they tossed a couple of balls over the fence to him. We then took the long walk to the stadium to see the Cubs take on the Royals. We had great seats, thankfully in the shade. Jeremy Affeldt pitched well for the Royals, but the Cubs prevailed 3-2. Before the game, we saw the great Buck O'Neil. My son took a ball down for him to sign. Buck told Joey he had to catch the ball before he'd sign it. He made Joey go up the steps, and he then tossed the ball and Joey caught it. Buck then signed it. He's a very charming man. After the game, we drove up to Usery Pass and walked through the desert. It was an enjoyable walk, even though we didn't quite make it all the way to the top of the mountain.
On Tuesday, we drove to Surprise and arrived early enough to see the Royals work out before their game. It's fun seeing these guys in this relaxed atmosphere enjoying themselves as they prepare for the long season. During batting practice, Joey and I moved out beyond the left field fence to try and snag a home run ball. Juan Gonzalez hit one that was coming right toward me. I thought I would have a chance and grabbing it until it went over the fence - into the next field. The shot had to be about 430 feet. He can really mash. We got Garth Brooks' autograph and then headed into the stadium for the game.
The Royals played the Rangers and they hit well against Kenny Rogers. The Royals ended up winning 12-7. We saw Mike MacDougal wandering around the concourse, so we got his autograph.
What a great trip. I'm really anxious for the season to start, and am already planning next year's trip to Arizona.
We just returned from Arizona where we took in some Cactus League ball games. On Sunday, we arrived and drove straight to Scottsdale to see the Cubs take on the Giants. Since we had just come from KC, the 90 degree heat was pretty tough to take. Plus, our seats were way down the third base line in the bleachers. We ended up spending most of the game walking around in the shade and smearing on the sun screen. The Giants ended up winning the game 11-3.
On Monday, we drove to Mesa and arrived early enough to see the Cubs Minor Leaguers in their workouts. My son Joey was pleased when they tossed a couple of balls over the fence to him. We then took the long walk to the stadium to see the Cubs take on the Royals. We had great seats, thankfully in the shade. Jeremy Affeldt pitched well for the Royals, but the Cubs prevailed 3-2. Before the game, we saw the great Buck O'Neil. My son took a ball down for him to sign. Buck told Joey he had to catch the ball before he'd sign it. He made Joey go up the steps, and he then tossed the ball and Joey caught it. Buck then signed it. He's a very charming man. After the game, we drove up to Usery Pass and walked through the desert. It was an enjoyable walk, even though we didn't quite make it all the way to the top of the mountain.
On Tuesday, we drove to Surprise and arrived early enough to see the Royals work out before their game. It's fun seeing these guys in this relaxed atmosphere enjoying themselves as they prepare for the long season. During batting practice, Joey and I moved out beyond the left field fence to try and snag a home run ball. Juan Gonzalez hit one that was coming right toward me. I thought I would have a chance and grabbing it until it went over the fence - into the next field. The shot had to be about 430 feet. He can really mash. We got Garth Brooks' autograph and then headed into the stadium for the game.
The Royals played the Rangers and they hit well against Kenny Rogers. The Royals ended up winning 12-7. We saw Mike MacDougal wandering around the concourse, so we got his autograph.
What a great trip. I'm really anxious for the season to start, and am already planning next year's trip to Arizona.
Saturday, March 13, 2004
Dev Days
Microsoft's Dev Days event passed through KC this week. I was pleased to have been asked to present at the event, and enjoyed the experience a great deal. In the final web app track session, Rick Kight and I split a presentation discussing Microsoft's entry into eWeek's OpenHack competition.
In 2002, eWeek sponsored a competition in which applications could be submitted, posted on the Internet, and opened up for hackers. Oracle and Microsoft both submitted applications, and Microsoft's withstood the challenge. (The Oracle application did allow cross-site scripting. This isn't a weekness of the Oracle product, just careless coding).
It was interesting digging into a "secure" application and learning various techniques. Most important to me were the input validation and scrubbing techniques. Basically, on any web form, using ASP.NET's validation controls can help prevent a malicious user from submitting script into our application by validating the input to limit what characters are allowed. To prevent malicious input through the query string parameters, a "CleanString" method is used for any and all input. This method scrubs the input before allowing it to be passed to a stored procedure. Also, any output to the pages is passed through a method that HTML-Encodes it.
I also enjoyed visiting with friends and co-workers Dan Fox and Jon Box.
Microsoft's Dev Days event passed through KC this week. I was pleased to have been asked to present at the event, and enjoyed the experience a great deal. In the final web app track session, Rick Kight and I split a presentation discussing Microsoft's entry into eWeek's OpenHack competition.
In 2002, eWeek sponsored a competition in which applications could be submitted, posted on the Internet, and opened up for hackers. Oracle and Microsoft both submitted applications, and Microsoft's withstood the challenge. (The Oracle application did allow cross-site scripting. This isn't a weekness of the Oracle product, just careless coding).
It was interesting digging into a "secure" application and learning various techniques. Most important to me were the input validation and scrubbing techniques. Basically, on any web form, using ASP.NET's validation controls can help prevent a malicious user from submitting script into our application by validating the input to limit what characters are allowed. To prevent malicious input through the query string parameters, a "CleanString" method is used for any and all input. This method scrubs the input before allowing it to be passed to a stored procedure. Also, any output to the pages is passed through a method that HTML-Encodes it.
I also enjoyed visiting with friends and co-workers Dan Fox and Jon Box.
The Ordinary Man's Game
Here's a great snippett from Buck O'Neil's book, I Was Right On Time:
"The black kids were just playing basketball and football. This is why RBI (Riviving Baseball in the Inner-Cities) is trying to rejuvinate baseball in the inner city. And we want these kids to play baseball. Right now the majority of blacks in the majors are from Latin countries. There are a lot of kids in our cities who are good atheletes, but they'll never play pro basketball or pro football because you have to be big and quick to play those sports. But in baseball you can be five-foot-nine and be a superstar. It's the ordinary man's game."
I've not had the pleasure of seeing Ken Burns' film Baseball, so my knowledge of Buck O'Neil comes from living in his adopted hometown. Even at 93, he's still a very visible fixture in this city. I see him at just about every Royals game I've attended, sitting in his same seat behind home plate, scorecard in hand. Last year, my son Joey and I were fortunate enough to get some seats right behind home plate for a Royals game. Joey was on the aisle, and we were filling out our scorecard before the first pitch. Suddenly, Joey's cap was flipped down over his eyes. He pulled the cap up and looked up to see a grey haired old man walking down the steps. Buck turned around and gave my son a wink.
After we return from Arizona, Joey and I plan on visiting the Negro League Museum, located right here in KC. It's amazing how you just never bother to appreciate the things that are in your own backyard. Joey has been interested in visiting the museum ever since our trip to Atlanta earlier this year. We were strolling through Underground Atlanta, and there was a cart selling Negro League merchandise. Monarchs caps, Clowns jerseys. They had everything. The "cool" factor was enough for Joey. I'm looking forward to the visit and learning more about these great players.
Here's a great snippett from Buck O'Neil's book, I Was Right On Time:
"The black kids were just playing basketball and football. This is why RBI (Riviving Baseball in the Inner-Cities) is trying to rejuvinate baseball in the inner city. And we want these kids to play baseball. Right now the majority of blacks in the majors are from Latin countries. There are a lot of kids in our cities who are good atheletes, but they'll never play pro basketball or pro football because you have to be big and quick to play those sports. But in baseball you can be five-foot-nine and be a superstar. It's the ordinary man's game."
I've not had the pleasure of seeing Ken Burns' film Baseball, so my knowledge of Buck O'Neil comes from living in his adopted hometown. Even at 93, he's still a very visible fixture in this city. I see him at just about every Royals game I've attended, sitting in his same seat behind home plate, scorecard in hand. Last year, my son Joey and I were fortunate enough to get some seats right behind home plate for a Royals game. Joey was on the aisle, and we were filling out our scorecard before the first pitch. Suddenly, Joey's cap was flipped down over his eyes. He pulled the cap up and looked up to see a grey haired old man walking down the steps. Buck turned around and gave my son a wink.
After we return from Arizona, Joey and I plan on visiting the Negro League Museum, located right here in KC. It's amazing how you just never bother to appreciate the things that are in your own backyard. Joey has been interested in visiting the museum ever since our trip to Atlanta earlier this year. We were strolling through Underground Atlanta, and there was a cart selling Negro League merchandise. Monarchs caps, Clowns jerseys. They had everything. The "cool" factor was enough for Joey. I'm looking forward to the visit and learning more about these great players.
Tuesday, March 09, 2004
Baseball Survey
In an earlier blog, I mentioned a survey in the latest issue of Baseball America. It's an interesting survey, which asks about the popularity of baseball compared to other sports. Here are my thoughts...
Yes, Baseball is my favorite sport. I like baseball because it is relaxing. I can count on baseball everyday of the summer. I can listen to games while I work around the house. I can take my son to baseball games and we both enjoy it without having to put up with a large, drunk, obnoxious crowd (NFL anyone?).
My next favorite sport is NFL football, probably just because that's the other major league sport in my town (KC). Football is a great sport for TV. For over 12 years, I've had season tickets to the Chiefs, but over the last few years I've found it less enjoyable to go to the games. With tailgating, it can be an 8 hour affair. Without tailgating, you get to the stadium and have to park way far away (and pay $20 to do so). Then you walk to the stadium and wait in a mob to get in the gates. Then, almost without fail, drunk loudmouth fans will be around you. My son is 10 years old, and I still do not feel comfortable sharing this experience with him.
I don't believe MLB needs to do anything to make it more appealing. The biggest mistake MLB can make is to try to make baseball more like football or basketball. I'm afraid that baseball will get desperate to remain a popular sport and will start tinkering with rules to try to make it "less boring." The "boring"-ness of the game is what is so appealing.
This reminds me of the steroid debates that are raging this year. I keep hearing the argument that "fans want to see more homeruns." I disagree. The beauty of the game is the strategy, the gracefulness, the chess-match moves that managers make throughout the game. It isn't a game for huge brutes. I would argue that it's more exciting seeing a runner try to go first to third on a base hit than seeing a bulked up monster trot around the bases.
In an earlier blog, I mentioned a survey in the latest issue of Baseball America. It's an interesting survey, which asks about the popularity of baseball compared to other sports. Here are my thoughts...
Yes, Baseball is my favorite sport. I like baseball because it is relaxing. I can count on baseball everyday of the summer. I can listen to games while I work around the house. I can take my son to baseball games and we both enjoy it without having to put up with a large, drunk, obnoxious crowd (NFL anyone?).
My next favorite sport is NFL football, probably just because that's the other major league sport in my town (KC). Football is a great sport for TV. For over 12 years, I've had season tickets to the Chiefs, but over the last few years I've found it less enjoyable to go to the games. With tailgating, it can be an 8 hour affair. Without tailgating, you get to the stadium and have to park way far away (and pay $20 to do so). Then you walk to the stadium and wait in a mob to get in the gates. Then, almost without fail, drunk loudmouth fans will be around you. My son is 10 years old, and I still do not feel comfortable sharing this experience with him.
I don't believe MLB needs to do anything to make it more appealing. The biggest mistake MLB can make is to try to make baseball more like football or basketball. I'm afraid that baseball will get desperate to remain a popular sport and will start tinkering with rules to try to make it "less boring." The "boring"-ness of the game is what is so appealing.
This reminds me of the steroid debates that are raging this year. I keep hearing the argument that "fans want to see more homeruns." I disagree. The beauty of the game is the strategy, the gracefulness, the chess-match moves that managers make throughout the game. It isn't a game for huge brutes. I would argue that it's more exciting seeing a runner try to go first to third on a base hit than seeing a bulked up monster trot around the bases.
Spring
Last weekend, the Royals Radio Network broadcast their first games of the season - two Spring Training games on Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Here in KC, the weather over the weekend was beautiful - sunny, and warm. Having the Royals on the radio while I worked around the house in the warm weather had me in paradise. My favorite moments in life involve taking care of household projects with the voices of Denny Matthews and Ryan Lefevre in my ears.
In only 4 days, I'll be heading to the Phoenix area to take in some Catcus League baseball...
Last weekend, the Royals Radio Network broadcast their first games of the season - two Spring Training games on Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Here in KC, the weather over the weekend was beautiful - sunny, and warm. Having the Royals on the radio while I worked around the house in the warm weather had me in paradise. My favorite moments in life involve taking care of household projects with the voices of Denny Matthews and Ryan Lefevre in my ears.
In only 4 days, I'll be heading to the Phoenix area to take in some Catcus League baseball...
Thursday, March 04, 2004
Baseball Survey
There's an interesting survey in the latest issue of Baseball America. Here are the questions:
If you have thoughts, send me an email. I'll be posting my thoughts in a blog to come...
There's an interesting survey in the latest issue of Baseball America. Here are the questions:
- Is baseball your favorite sport? If yes, why? If not, why not?
- Besides baseball, what is your favorite sport? Why?
- What does MLB do that makes it more appealing than the NFL? The NBA? The NHL? NASCAR?
- What do the following sports do that make them more appealing than baseball: the NFL, NBA, NHL, and NASCAR?
If you have thoughts, send me an email. I'll be posting my thoughts in a blog to come...
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
Rotation News
Miguel Asencio is experiencing tightness in his elbow - the same elbow that was operated on last season. Though the Royals are being cautious, I don't think he will pitch again. Even when healthy, I'm not sure he could be a consitently effective pitcher.
I think it's starting to look more and more like Zach Grienke will open the season in KC. He's the young pitching phenom who has been outstanding in A and AA ball. He's with the team in Spring Training and has impressed everybody. In an inter-squad game today, he got out of a jam by getting Juan Gonzalez to ground into a double play. Beltran reached base on Ken Harvey's error and Mike Sweeney hit a single setting up an interesting match up with Juan Gone. After working the count to 2-2, Juan hit a grounder back to Grienke who started the double play.
The Royals keep saying that they want to make sure Grienke's ready before promoting him to the big league team. Allard Baird has said that he wants him to experience failure so we will know how well he can bounce back. My feeling is that if he can help the team win now, let him pitch. Injuries are mixing up the rotation to start the season. They've already lost Kyle Snyder. Asencio is questionable. Appier supposedly won't be ready for opening day. Affeldt's blister problem may keep him in the bullpen. That leaves several lefties for the rotation (Gobble, May, Anderson, George). Grienke would be a nice fit.
Miguel Asencio is experiencing tightness in his elbow - the same elbow that was operated on last season. Though the Royals are being cautious, I don't think he will pitch again. Even when healthy, I'm not sure he could be a consitently effective pitcher.
I think it's starting to look more and more like Zach Grienke will open the season in KC. He's the young pitching phenom who has been outstanding in A and AA ball. He's with the team in Spring Training and has impressed everybody. In an inter-squad game today, he got out of a jam by getting Juan Gonzalez to ground into a double play. Beltran reached base on Ken Harvey's error and Mike Sweeney hit a single setting up an interesting match up with Juan Gone. After working the count to 2-2, Juan hit a grounder back to Grienke who started the double play.
The Royals keep saying that they want to make sure Grienke's ready before promoting him to the big league team. Allard Baird has said that he wants him to experience failure so we will know how well he can bounce back. My feeling is that if he can help the team win now, let him pitch. Injuries are mixing up the rotation to start the season. They've already lost Kyle Snyder. Asencio is questionable. Appier supposedly won't be ready for opening day. Affeldt's blister problem may keep him in the bullpen. That leaves several lefties for the rotation (Gobble, May, Anderson, George). Grienke would be a nice fit.
Royals BLOG
Just found a Royals blog at Bradford Doolittle's Page.
There's some pretty interesting stuff there. Bradford writes a correspondent's column for ESPN's fatansy baseball page.
Just found a Royals blog at Bradford Doolittle's Page.
There's some pretty interesting stuff there. Bradford writes a correspondent's column for ESPN's fatansy baseball page.
Monday, March 01, 2004
Royals Lineup
The Royals lineup is beginning to take shape. Yesterday, Tony Pena announced that Angel Berroa will begin the season batting leadoff. I think this is a good move. Berroa was the leadoff man late last season, and hit .333 and had a .371 OBP hitting first. Berroa's not a real patient hitter, but he may not have to be. In an interview, Carlos Beltran announced that Pena had told him he would bat second. That means Berroa should see some pretty good pitches as pitchers try to get him to make contact to get an out instead of potentially walking him with Beltran coming up. Following Beltran, we should see Sweeney and Juan Gonzalez. That's a pretty good bunch of hitters at the top of the lineup. Here's how the lineup looks:
Berroa - SS
Beltran - CF
Sweeney - 1B
Gonzalez - RF
Randa - 3B
Stairs/Harvey - DH
Santiago - C
Guiel - LF
Relaford - 2B
It also looks like Brian Anderson will begin the season as the number 1 starter, pitching against the White Sox for Opening Day on April 5. Spring Training reports also indicate that Affeldt's finger is doing just fine, so far. Personally, I'm hoping the blister problem is behind him and that he can give us 200 innings this year.
The Royals lineup is beginning to take shape. Yesterday, Tony Pena announced that Angel Berroa will begin the season batting leadoff. I think this is a good move. Berroa was the leadoff man late last season, and hit .333 and had a .371 OBP hitting first. Berroa's not a real patient hitter, but he may not have to be. In an interview, Carlos Beltran announced that Pena had told him he would bat second. That means Berroa should see some pretty good pitches as pitchers try to get him to make contact to get an out instead of potentially walking him with Beltran coming up. Following Beltran, we should see Sweeney and Juan Gonzalez. That's a pretty good bunch of hitters at the top of the lineup. Here's how the lineup looks:
Berroa - SS
Beltran - CF
Sweeney - 1B
Gonzalez - RF
Randa - 3B
Stairs/Harvey - DH
Santiago - C
Guiel - LF
Relaford - 2B
It also looks like Brian Anderson will begin the season as the number 1 starter, pitching against the White Sox for Opening Day on April 5. Spring Training reports also indicate that Affeldt's finger is doing just fine, so far. Personally, I'm hoping the blister problem is behind him and that he can give us 200 innings this year.
Friday, February 27, 2004
BC Scorebook
Last summer, I purchased an eBook called "Feeding the Green Monster" by Rob Neyer. It was great because I was travelling a lot, and I could carry the book on my PocketPC without having to carry an actual book. Of course, as is my luck, my PocketPC has crashed, and I don't have a copy of the book file on my other computers. I want to talk about the book, but I'll be going from my memories of reading it last summer. (And by the way, I will always buy books with actual pages from now on).
I discovered Rob Neyer back in 2000 or 2001. In 2000, the Royals had a very promising year. They won 77 games, and had a fantastic offense that year, but struggled with their pitching. They had a healthy Jermaine Dye, a promising young Johnny Damon, "Dos Carlos" - 1999 AL Rookie of the Year Carlos Beltran and Carlos Febles, the promising second baseman. I was regaining my interest in the Royals and stumbled upon the Rob & Rany page. If you're not familiar with them, Rob Neyer is a baseball columnist for ESPN.com and Rany Jazayerli is a doctor who also writes for Baseball Prospectus. It just so happens that both of these fellows are fans of the Kansas City Royals. So, every so often, they get together to banter about the Royals, and they post their discussions at Rob's site. (I was very disappointed in October of 2001 when Rob quit writing about the Royals. He was fed up with the team after GM Allard Baird announced that Tony Muser would return as manager in 2002. Of course, Baird finally wised up in May of 2002, fired Muser, hired Pena, and the team started to turn around. Rob has since resumed writing about the Royals, to the delight of Royals fans everywhere.)
In addition to his ESPN columns, Neyer also occassionally authors baseball books. Most are statistical analyses, but "Feeding the Green Monster" is different. In the summer of 2000, Neyer, who lives in the Northwest, moved into an apartment 4 blocks from fabled Fenway Park, and went to every Red Sox game in Fenway that season. He wrote about his experiences in the book.
There's an interesting twist to this book. When he presented the final manuscript to his publisher, they hated it and refused to publish it. Neyer was finally able to get it published by iPublish.com, and the book is available in paperback at Amazon.com.
I enjoyed the book very much. It reads like a journal that describes many of Neyer's experiences that summer. Periodically, he will discuss the details of a game he watched, questioning Jimy Williams' moves, or describing a great play.
Since Neyer was writing about his experiences nearly every day, it is natural that many aspects of his personal life came through as well. I've read reviews that criticized the book for going into too much detail about Neyer's personal affairs, including his girlfriend (since it's been a while since I read it, I can't remember if he found a new girlfriend, lost his old girlfriend, or maybe a little of both). While I didn't enjoy the girl talk quite as much, I didn't mind it because I was learning a little more about Neyer's personality in those passages. Throughout the book, I found myself realizing that Neyer and I are very much alike. We both hate conflict, we are generally quiet, etc. I really began to relate to Neyer and his experiences.
There were several good stories in the book about how Neyer had to deal with scalpers to get tickets. He started the season with no tickets, so every day he had to find a way to get tickets and get into Fenway. Also included is a funny story of arriving at Fenway only to realize he had forgotten his tickets. He described Fenway in great detail, which he could since he sat in just about every section of the stadium. He told the story of how he and a friend stayed in the ballpark after a game, and spent the night there touching the Green Monster, going into the scoreboard, and fighting off the rats. He also spent some time travelling to New York and told stories of Yankee Stadium (which even though is a storied venue, does not retain any of its charm).
Since Neyer is a Royals fan, he of course discusses his (and my) favorite team when they played the Red Sox. He also described a trip to KC to see a game at Kauffman Stadium.
Now, the reason I'm writing about this book is because I was reminded of it recently. In the book, Neyer tells the story of how he lost his scorebook when he left it on a commuter train. He describes how he scores almost every game he sees, and his favorite scorebook is the Bob Carpenter Scorebook. I decided last summer while reading this that I would try to get a BC Scorebook for this season, since I was growing tired of scoring games on those Budweiser ads they sell as scorecards at the stadium. Yesterday, my BC Scorebook arrived in the mail. It's a fairly small book (7" x 8 1/2"), and is well laid out with plenty of room for notes and substitutions. The book includes enough pages for 100 games and is spiral bound so it's easy to hold while at the stadium. Its arrival is another signal of the upcoming season. Since Spring Training is for fans too, I'll be taking my new scorebook to Arizona and testing it out so I'll be ready for opening day.
I'll be sure to mark it with my name and phone number so should I leave it on a commuter train, the nice person who picks it up will be able to return it to me, just as Neyer's was.
Last summer, I purchased an eBook called "Feeding the Green Monster" by Rob Neyer. It was great because I was travelling a lot, and I could carry the book on my PocketPC without having to carry an actual book. Of course, as is my luck, my PocketPC has crashed, and I don't have a copy of the book file on my other computers. I want to talk about the book, but I'll be going from my memories of reading it last summer. (And by the way, I will always buy books with actual pages from now on).
I discovered Rob Neyer back in 2000 or 2001. In 2000, the Royals had a very promising year. They won 77 games, and had a fantastic offense that year, but struggled with their pitching. They had a healthy Jermaine Dye, a promising young Johnny Damon, "Dos Carlos" - 1999 AL Rookie of the Year Carlos Beltran and Carlos Febles, the promising second baseman. I was regaining my interest in the Royals and stumbled upon the Rob & Rany page. If you're not familiar with them, Rob Neyer is a baseball columnist for ESPN.com and Rany Jazayerli is a doctor who also writes for Baseball Prospectus. It just so happens that both of these fellows are fans of the Kansas City Royals. So, every so often, they get together to banter about the Royals, and they post their discussions at Rob's site. (I was very disappointed in October of 2001 when Rob quit writing about the Royals. He was fed up with the team after GM Allard Baird announced that Tony Muser would return as manager in 2002. Of course, Baird finally wised up in May of 2002, fired Muser, hired Pena, and the team started to turn around. Rob has since resumed writing about the Royals, to the delight of Royals fans everywhere.)
In addition to his ESPN columns, Neyer also occassionally authors baseball books. Most are statistical analyses, but "Feeding the Green Monster" is different. In the summer of 2000, Neyer, who lives in the Northwest, moved into an apartment 4 blocks from fabled Fenway Park, and went to every Red Sox game in Fenway that season. He wrote about his experiences in the book.
There's an interesting twist to this book. When he presented the final manuscript to his publisher, they hated it and refused to publish it. Neyer was finally able to get it published by iPublish.com, and the book is available in paperback at Amazon.com.
I enjoyed the book very much. It reads like a journal that describes many of Neyer's experiences that summer. Periodically, he will discuss the details of a game he watched, questioning Jimy Williams' moves, or describing a great play.
Since Neyer was writing about his experiences nearly every day, it is natural that many aspects of his personal life came through as well. I've read reviews that criticized the book for going into too much detail about Neyer's personal affairs, including his girlfriend (since it's been a while since I read it, I can't remember if he found a new girlfriend, lost his old girlfriend, or maybe a little of both). While I didn't enjoy the girl talk quite as much, I didn't mind it because I was learning a little more about Neyer's personality in those passages. Throughout the book, I found myself realizing that Neyer and I are very much alike. We both hate conflict, we are generally quiet, etc. I really began to relate to Neyer and his experiences.
There were several good stories in the book about how Neyer had to deal with scalpers to get tickets. He started the season with no tickets, so every day he had to find a way to get tickets and get into Fenway. Also included is a funny story of arriving at Fenway only to realize he had forgotten his tickets. He described Fenway in great detail, which he could since he sat in just about every section of the stadium. He told the story of how he and a friend stayed in the ballpark after a game, and spent the night there touching the Green Monster, going into the scoreboard, and fighting off the rats. He also spent some time travelling to New York and told stories of Yankee Stadium (which even though is a storied venue, does not retain any of its charm).
Since Neyer is a Royals fan, he of course discusses his (and my) favorite team when they played the Red Sox. He also described a trip to KC to see a game at Kauffman Stadium.
Now, the reason I'm writing about this book is because I was reminded of it recently. In the book, Neyer tells the story of how he lost his scorebook when he left it on a commuter train. He describes how he scores almost every game he sees, and his favorite scorebook is the Bob Carpenter Scorebook. I decided last summer while reading this that I would try to get a BC Scorebook for this season, since I was growing tired of scoring games on those Budweiser ads they sell as scorecards at the stadium. Yesterday, my BC Scorebook arrived in the mail. It's a fairly small book (7" x 8 1/2"), and is well laid out with plenty of room for notes and substitutions. The book includes enough pages for 100 games and is spiral bound so it's easy to hold while at the stadium. Its arrival is another signal of the upcoming season. Since Spring Training is for fans too, I'll be taking my new scorebook to Arizona and testing it out so I'll be ready for opening day.
I'll be sure to mark it with my name and phone number so should I leave it on a commuter train, the nice person who picks it up will be able to return it to me, just as Neyer's was.
Tuesday, February 24, 2004
Royals Team Doctors
Rob Neyer - Rob and Rany
My favorite Royals commentators, Rob & Rany, just posted a new installment in which they discuss the latest injury to Kyle Snyder. For several years now, the Royals' medical staff has been criticized for not treating injuries properly. Several examples from last year support the point:
And now Kyle Snyder is going under the knife for the same injury that he had surgery for last season. I'm pretty ignorant about all things medical, but it seems to me that there are a lot of "redos" involving Royals and their injuries. I'd like to see a medical staff who can diagnose and fix the problems the first time around.
Rob Neyer - Rob and Rany
My favorite Royals commentators, Rob & Rany, just posted a new installment in which they discuss the latest injury to Kyle Snyder. For several years now, the Royals' medical staff has been criticized for not treating injuries properly. Several examples from last year support the point:
- Jose Lima - pulled a groin, came back too early and made it worse
- Runelvys Hernadez - injured, came back and though the team tried to force him to pitch, he insisted he was still hurt. After a second opinion, he had Tommy John surgery.
- Jeremy Affeldt - it took 2 years of fighting the blisters before they finally wised up and had the fingernail removed, thus wasting valuable innings.
And now Kyle Snyder is going under the knife for the same injury that he had surgery for last season. I'm pretty ignorant about all things medical, but it seems to me that there are a lot of "redos" involving Royals and their injuries. I'd like to see a medical staff who can diagnose and fix the problems the first time around.
Fay's Book
After having finished Fay Vincent's book "The Last Commissioner," I loaned the book to Dan Fox, who commented on the book in his blog.
My final thoughts on the book are here.
I found Fay's retelling of the World Series Earthquake in 1989 very interesting. I was at home, preparing to watch the game on TV, so I remember the event well. Fay's insight into the decisions made, and how they were made, were fascinating. Vicnent also fondly recalls the police officer who took charge at the stadium after the quake, and how he also convinced Vincent to postpone the game.
Vincent's love for the game comes through throughout the book. Even though Fay has bitter memories of dealing with owners such as Bud Selig and Jerry Reinsdorf, as well as struggling with George Steinbrenner's "lifetime ban" and Pete Rose's Lifetime Ban, he still loves the game with all of his heart. That is the strength of the game. While sports like football and basketball can have a huge number of fans, no game has the number of lovers that baseball has. Baseball evokes history, memories, emotion and love like no other sport. There is no trouble that can't be soothed by an afternoon at the ball park.
After having finished Fay Vincent's book "The Last Commissioner," I loaned the book to Dan Fox, who commented on the book in his blog.
My final thoughts on the book are here.
I found Fay's retelling of the World Series Earthquake in 1989 very interesting. I was at home, preparing to watch the game on TV, so I remember the event well. Fay's insight into the decisions made, and how they were made, were fascinating. Vicnent also fondly recalls the police officer who took charge at the stadium after the quake, and how he also convinced Vincent to postpone the game.
Vincent's love for the game comes through throughout the book. Even though Fay has bitter memories of dealing with owners such as Bud Selig and Jerry Reinsdorf, as well as struggling with George Steinbrenner's "lifetime ban" and Pete Rose's Lifetime Ban, he still loves the game with all of his heart. That is the strength of the game. While sports like football and basketball can have a huge number of fans, no game has the number of lovers that baseball has. Baseball evokes history, memories, emotion and love like no other sport. There is no trouble that can't be soothed by an afternoon at the ball park.
Monday, February 23, 2004
Snyder Surgery
Kansas City Royals News
Looks like Royals pitcher Kyle Snyder will be out with another shoulder surgery. This further clouds the picture for the Royals starting rotation this year. Snyder has been a fairly effective pitcher when healthy, but he missed quite a bit of last season to injury, and this was after missing at least a full season prior. Part of me thinks that we will not see Snyder again, however, he has vowed to return. We will see...
So the candidates for the starting rotation are...
Kevin Appier - though he's rehabbing and isn't expected back until late April or May
Jimmy Gobble - a young lefty who showed some promise late last season
Jeremy Affeldt - if the blister problem is solved, could be a dominate lefty
Brian Anderson - free agent signing, solid lefty
Darrell May - veteran lefty who pitched better than his ability last season; I'm looking for a return to earth for May this year
Chris George - another lefty, struggled last season, will try again this year
Zach Grienke - young phenom prospect; probably won't make the team out of spring training, but should be called up sometime this year
Miguel Asencio - coming off surgery last year, pitched well in 2002, and 2003
Plenty of lefties for the starters. The bullpen was light on left handed pitchers, so the Royals signed Greg Swindell to possibly be a left hander to come out of the bullpen.
Only 3 weeks until I travel to Surprise to see some spring training...
Kansas City Royals News
Looks like Royals pitcher Kyle Snyder will be out with another shoulder surgery. This further clouds the picture for the Royals starting rotation this year. Snyder has been a fairly effective pitcher when healthy, but he missed quite a bit of last season to injury, and this was after missing at least a full season prior. Part of me thinks that we will not see Snyder again, however, he has vowed to return. We will see...
So the candidates for the starting rotation are...
Kevin Appier - though he's rehabbing and isn't expected back until late April or May
Jimmy Gobble - a young lefty who showed some promise late last season
Jeremy Affeldt - if the blister problem is solved, could be a dominate lefty
Brian Anderson - free agent signing, solid lefty
Darrell May - veteran lefty who pitched better than his ability last season; I'm looking for a return to earth for May this year
Chris George - another lefty, struggled last season, will try again this year
Zach Grienke - young phenom prospect; probably won't make the team out of spring training, but should be called up sometime this year
Miguel Asencio - coming off surgery last year, pitched well in 2002, and 2003
Plenty of lefties for the starters. The bullpen was light on left handed pitchers, so the Royals signed Greg Swindell to possibly be a left hander to come out of the bullpen.
Only 3 weeks until I travel to Surprise to see some spring training...
Tuesday, February 17, 2004
ARod
One of the highlights of our upcoming Spring Training trip to Arizona was going to be seeing ARod (The Rangers share Spring Training facilities with the Royals). That was nixed this weekend when the Yankees completed their trade of Soriano for ARod. At first glance, you would think the Yankees are taking on a huge payroll burden with this deal, but they are losing Soriano's salary (around 5.5M), and will likely get out of Aaron Boone's contract since he nullified it by injuring himself in a game of pickup basketball. The Rangers were also willing to help with some of the money owed ARod just to get out from under his contract.
This presents an interesting scenario. On the one hand, we see a team paying the price for vastly overpaying for a player. I think it is safe to say that we will no longer see any 10 year contracts signed in baseball. Because of the money going to ARod, the Rangers were unable to build up the rest of their team (their pitching has been awful), and subsequently they have ended the last 3 seasons in last place. Proving once again that baseball is the ultimate team sport. Having the best player in the game could not help them compete.
On the other hand, we have a team in the Yankees who are willing and able to spend as much as it takes to get the players they want. The Yankees' payroll is now around $190 Million. Add in the revenue sharing money and the luxury tax and they Yankees will spend well over $200M this year. The Royals, as a point of reference, will spend about $45M on payroll this year.
So the question is: Is this good for baseball? As a fan of a small market team, my first reaction is to say no - this is a perfect example of all that is wrong with baseball. My team has absolutely NO CHANCE of signing a player like ARod. However, when I look at the Royals this year and compare them to the Yankees, I think I'd rather have the Royals. The Royals are a collection of young, talented players who are thirsty to play and win on the Major League level. We saw that last year - the Royals started the season 9-0 and was contended into August. The team should not have done that well. With basically the same team, the Royals lost 100 games the year before. But last year showed how energy, enthusiasm, and a love of the game can propel a team. This year the team returns with some obvious gaps from a year ago plugged. Will they do better than last year? Who knows. I have a feeling they will equal or even better last year's 83 wins. Even if they don't, they will be fun to watch.
In New York, they've assembled a group of older, more grissled veterans - all of which are making a huge salary. What is their motivation? How hard will they work? Will they become baseball's rendition of this year's Oakland Raiders? Only time will tell, but this season will have lots of interesting twists and story lines to follow. The Boston/New York rivalry will be more intense than ever. It will be a fun year.
One of the highlights of our upcoming Spring Training trip to Arizona was going to be seeing ARod (The Rangers share Spring Training facilities with the Royals). That was nixed this weekend when the Yankees completed their trade of Soriano for ARod. At first glance, you would think the Yankees are taking on a huge payroll burden with this deal, but they are losing Soriano's salary (around 5.5M), and will likely get out of Aaron Boone's contract since he nullified it by injuring himself in a game of pickup basketball. The Rangers were also willing to help with some of the money owed ARod just to get out from under his contract.
This presents an interesting scenario. On the one hand, we see a team paying the price for vastly overpaying for a player. I think it is safe to say that we will no longer see any 10 year contracts signed in baseball. Because of the money going to ARod, the Rangers were unable to build up the rest of their team (their pitching has been awful), and subsequently they have ended the last 3 seasons in last place. Proving once again that baseball is the ultimate team sport. Having the best player in the game could not help them compete.
On the other hand, we have a team in the Yankees who are willing and able to spend as much as it takes to get the players they want. The Yankees' payroll is now around $190 Million. Add in the revenue sharing money and the luxury tax and they Yankees will spend well over $200M this year. The Royals, as a point of reference, will spend about $45M on payroll this year.
So the question is: Is this good for baseball? As a fan of a small market team, my first reaction is to say no - this is a perfect example of all that is wrong with baseball. My team has absolutely NO CHANCE of signing a player like ARod. However, when I look at the Royals this year and compare them to the Yankees, I think I'd rather have the Royals. The Royals are a collection of young, talented players who are thirsty to play and win on the Major League level. We saw that last year - the Royals started the season 9-0 and was contended into August. The team should not have done that well. With basically the same team, the Royals lost 100 games the year before. But last year showed how energy, enthusiasm, and a love of the game can propel a team. This year the team returns with some obvious gaps from a year ago plugged. Will they do better than last year? Who knows. I have a feeling they will equal or even better last year's 83 wins. Even if they don't, they will be fun to watch.
In New York, they've assembled a group of older, more grissled veterans - all of which are making a huge salary. What is their motivation? How hard will they work? Will they become baseball's rendition of this year's Oakland Raiders? Only time will tell, but this season will have lots of interesting twists and story lines to follow. The Boston/New York rivalry will be more intense than ever. It will be a fun year.
Tuesday, February 10, 2004
Baseball Season
Tonight, back in KC (this is my last night in Atlanta), my son had his second practice with his new baseball team. The team is made up 10 year old boys who are all pretty good ball players. This team will be our first "serious" foray into little league baseball. We will be travelling to Omaha and potentially St. Louis to play in tournaments. The normal league play is typically made up of about 10-15 games and then a post season tournament that could be up to 4 or 6 games. With the tournaments, we expect to play 40 to 60 games this year. That is quite a bit. The fact that we began practice in January indicates the level of competition for this team.
Joey is extremely excited. I am very pleased that he has taken such an interest in the game I love so much. He has played two leagues every year (spring and fall) since he was 6, and has enjoyed every bit of it. He has never complained about having to go to practice, and always gives his all. While I love sitting out at the K and taking in a Royals game, it pales in comparison to watching my boy and his teammates compete. I'm am looking forward to seeing more of his games this year since I won't be travelling as much as I was last year.
Tonight, back in KC (this is my last night in Atlanta), my son had his second practice with his new baseball team. The team is made up 10 year old boys who are all pretty good ball players. This team will be our first "serious" foray into little league baseball. We will be travelling to Omaha and potentially St. Louis to play in tournaments. The normal league play is typically made up of about 10-15 games and then a post season tournament that could be up to 4 or 6 games. With the tournaments, we expect to play 40 to 60 games this year. That is quite a bit. The fact that we began practice in January indicates the level of competition for this team.
Joey is extremely excited. I am very pleased that he has taken such an interest in the game I love so much. He has played two leagues every year (spring and fall) since he was 6, and has enjoyed every bit of it. He has never complained about having to go to practice, and always gives his all. While I love sitting out at the K and taking in a Royals game, it pales in comparison to watching my boy and his teammates compete. I'm am looking forward to seeing more of his games this year since I won't be travelling as much as I was last year.
Affeldt
Yahoo! Sports - MLB - Royals: Nail removal fixes Affeldt's blister problem
For the last 2 years, Royals lefty pitcher Jeremy Affeldt has shown flashes of brilliance. When he's truly "on," his stuff is absolutely unhittable. The problem is that over the last 2 years, Affeldt has had chronic blister problems on the middle finger of his pitching hand. He had tried everything to try to toughen the skin around the nail, but the blister kept returning. The blister last year forced Affeldt to bullpen duty, though he and the Royals both would love to make him the "ace" of the starting rotation.
So, it seems that drastic times call for drastic measures. This offseason, Affeldt had a procedure that killed part of his fingernail. He essentially had to dip his finger in acid, thus killing the nail and preventing it from ever growing back. In this article, he is quoted:
"I've got half a nail for the rest of my life… So it'll be one of those things where I'm losing body parts but, hey, whatever it takes to be out on the mound."
Last year, Affeldt struggled at times. I feel he was gripping the ball differently to avoid the blister. If he can comfortably grip the ball and throw like he knows how to throw, then we can expect to see him emerge as one of the best pitchers in the AL this season.
Yahoo! Sports - MLB - Royals: Nail removal fixes Affeldt's blister problem
For the last 2 years, Royals lefty pitcher Jeremy Affeldt has shown flashes of brilliance. When he's truly "on," his stuff is absolutely unhittable. The problem is that over the last 2 years, Affeldt has had chronic blister problems on the middle finger of his pitching hand. He had tried everything to try to toughen the skin around the nail, but the blister kept returning. The blister last year forced Affeldt to bullpen duty, though he and the Royals both would love to make him the "ace" of the starting rotation.
So, it seems that drastic times call for drastic measures. This offseason, Affeldt had a procedure that killed part of his fingernail. He essentially had to dip his finger in acid, thus killing the nail and preventing it from ever growing back. In this article, he is quoted:
"I've got half a nail for the rest of my life… So it'll be one of those things where I'm losing body parts but, hey, whatever it takes to be out on the mound."
Last year, Affeldt struggled at times. I feel he was gripping the ball differently to avoid the blister. If he can comfortably grip the ball and throw like he knows how to throw, then we can expect to see him emerge as one of the best pitchers in the AL this season.
Sunday, February 08, 2004
The Last Commissioner
I am currently reading Fay Vincent's The Last Commissioner. So far, it is a fascinating book. The book is not so much an autobiography, but more a collection of stories and information about baseball. The sub-title, A Baseball Valentine certainly fits.
I would like to re-read the book with a highlighter and bookmarks handy so I can mark the more interesting tid-bits of the book.
Fay was involved in the Rose controversy and had a hand in imposing the lifetime ban. His version of the story is fascinating, and should be read by every person who bothered to read Rose's recent book.
Vincent grew up as a fan of the Yankees, and had the pleasure of knowing Joe DiMaggio. One of the best stories involves the 3 hour breakfast Fay had with DiMaggio and Ted Williams. A dream come true for any fan of the game.
I just read Fay's retelling of DiMaggio's memory of Lou Gehrig's farewell speech. In early 1939, Gehrig finally took himself out of the lineup (after 2,130 straight games), and was then diagnosed with ALS, a terminal disease. On July 4, the Yankees had a ceremony honoring Gehrig. Lou was not scheduled to speak. Just before he went to the field, he changed his mind and ad-libbed the now famous speech ("Today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the planet.") Babe Ruth was standing nearby, having been retired for 4 years. It was rumored that Babe and Gehrig didn't get along, but DiMaggio says it was the two men's wives who had issues. After the speech, Ruth hugged Gehrig, and DiMaggio saw that Ruth had tears streaming down his face and that he was crying like a baby.
I have yet to finish the book, but look forward to reading the story of how the owners eventually pushed Fay out of baseball.
I am currently reading Fay Vincent's The Last Commissioner. So far, it is a fascinating book. The book is not so much an autobiography, but more a collection of stories and information about baseball. The sub-title, A Baseball Valentine certainly fits.
I would like to re-read the book with a highlighter and bookmarks handy so I can mark the more interesting tid-bits of the book.
Fay was involved in the Rose controversy and had a hand in imposing the lifetime ban. His version of the story is fascinating, and should be read by every person who bothered to read Rose's recent book.
Vincent grew up as a fan of the Yankees, and had the pleasure of knowing Joe DiMaggio. One of the best stories involves the 3 hour breakfast Fay had with DiMaggio and Ted Williams. A dream come true for any fan of the game.
I just read Fay's retelling of DiMaggio's memory of Lou Gehrig's farewell speech. In early 1939, Gehrig finally took himself out of the lineup (after 2,130 straight games), and was then diagnosed with ALS, a terminal disease. On July 4, the Yankees had a ceremony honoring Gehrig. Lou was not scheduled to speak. Just before he went to the field, he changed his mind and ad-libbed the now famous speech ("Today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the planet.") Babe Ruth was standing nearby, having been retired for 4 years. It was rumored that Babe and Gehrig didn't get along, but DiMaggio says it was the two men's wives who had issues. After the speech, Ruth hugged Gehrig, and DiMaggio saw that Ruth had tears streaming down his face and that he was crying like a baby.
I have yet to finish the book, but look forward to reading the story of how the owners eventually pushed Fay out of baseball.
Atlanta
I'm in the middle of a trip to Atlanta. I was summoned to the ATL to do some training for a large telecommunications firm. I taught 3 days of advanced .NET development last week, and will teach it for another 3 days this coming week. The class is a shortened version of Quilogy's Atomic.NET class. I stayed in Atlanta over the weekend, and my family flew down to spend some time with some friends we have in the area.
On Saturday, we toured the studios of CNN. It was interesting to see the place where the news gathering happens as well as the desk where the on-air talent does their thing. I found the tour to be a bit disappointing. I did enjoy seeing the studios of CNN, CNN Headline News and the other CNN networks. But I would have like to have seen a bit more about the history of the network. I think the tour should have begun with a video that discusses the history of the network and how world events helped to launch the all-news network format - especially the first Gulf War.
After CNN, we took the MARTA to Underground Atlanta, an underground shopping area. We had some dinner and wandered around until it was time to head back to Philips Arean (next door to CNN) to take in Hawks game. It was fun seeing Yao Ming (from our up-high seats, he was clearly the biggest man on the floor, but also the slowest. When we left he had only 4 points). The Hawks lead into the 4th quarter but ended losing the game.
On Sunday, we relaxed a bit, then headed back to downtown to check out the World of Coke. This Coke museum was interesting, and at the end, we had the opportunity to try all the various flavors that Coke produces. Some international flavors were less than tastey.
I just dropped my family off at the airport and they are headed back to the snow of KC. For my own part, I'm ready to return, and Wednesday can't come soon enough.
I'm in the middle of a trip to Atlanta. I was summoned to the ATL to do some training for a large telecommunications firm. I taught 3 days of advanced .NET development last week, and will teach it for another 3 days this coming week. The class is a shortened version of Quilogy's Atomic.NET class. I stayed in Atlanta over the weekend, and my family flew down to spend some time with some friends we have in the area.
On Saturday, we toured the studios of CNN. It was interesting to see the place where the news gathering happens as well as the desk where the on-air talent does their thing. I found the tour to be a bit disappointing. I did enjoy seeing the studios of CNN, CNN Headline News and the other CNN networks. But I would have like to have seen a bit more about the history of the network. I think the tour should have begun with a video that discusses the history of the network and how world events helped to launch the all-news network format - especially the first Gulf War.
After CNN, we took the MARTA to Underground Atlanta, an underground shopping area. We had some dinner and wandered around until it was time to head back to Philips Arean (next door to CNN) to take in Hawks game. It was fun seeing Yao Ming (from our up-high seats, he was clearly the biggest man on the floor, but also the slowest. When we left he had only 4 points). The Hawks lead into the 4th quarter but ended losing the game.
On Sunday, we relaxed a bit, then headed back to downtown to check out the World of Coke. This Coke museum was interesting, and at the end, we had the opportunity to try all the various flavors that Coke produces. Some international flavors were less than tastey.
I just dropped my family off at the airport and they are headed back to the snow of KC. For my own part, I'm ready to return, and Wednesday can't come soon enough.
Wednesday, February 04, 2004
Friends in Low Places
I recently learned that Garth Brooks is going to be going to Spring Training with the Royals this year. At first, I was upset. What in the world is this old guy doing? Just trying to garner some more publicity for himself?
I've since learned he intention is to raise awareness and money for Brooks's Teammates 4 Kids Foundation.
As long as Garth's parcipitation doesn't get in the way of the development of the Royal's younger players or the preparation of the team, I'm all for it. Plus, it'll be one more autograph that we'll be hunting for when we go out to Arizona.
I recently learned that Garth Brooks is going to be going to Spring Training with the Royals this year. At first, I was upset. What in the world is this old guy doing? Just trying to garner some more publicity for himself?
I've since learned he intention is to raise awareness and money for Brooks's Teammates 4 Kids Foundation.
As long as Garth's parcipitation doesn't get in the way of the development of the Royal's younger players or the preparation of the team, I'm all for it. Plus, it'll be one more autograph that we'll be hunting for when we go out to Arizona.
Jacko
MSNBC - Spike Lee calls Jackson's flash a 'new low'
It's time for the entire Jackson family to just go away. Here's a news flash folks - America is sick of seeing Michael's messed up face. America is sick of hearing about Michael's relationships with children. America is sick of seeing LaToya and Janet's breasts. America is sick of hearing Tito rail on the media. We've had enough. Enough cookie cutter pop songs. Enough over used dance moves. Enough crotch grabs. This is it - enough already.
The entire family should just go into seclusion (Michael may have no choice, come to think of it) and remove themselves from our society.
MSNBC - Spike Lee calls Jackson's flash a 'new low'
It's time for the entire Jackson family to just go away. Here's a news flash folks - America is sick of seeing Michael's messed up face. America is sick of hearing about Michael's relationships with children. America is sick of seeing LaToya and Janet's breasts. America is sick of hearing Tito rail on the media. We've had enough. Enough cookie cutter pop songs. Enough over used dance moves. Enough crotch grabs. This is it - enough already.
The entire family should just go into seclusion (Michael may have no choice, come to think of it) and remove themselves from our society.
Thursday, January 29, 2004
HT Update
It's been a while since I've written about the home theater.
Everything's working great, and I continue to be pleased with the PLUS Piano DLP projector. HD channels are clear and brilliant. DVD movies look great. By far, this projector is a better choice than a rear projection television, if you have a room dark enough for it.
I recently installed LUTRON Spacer Light Dimmers. These are dimmer switches that control the lighting in the theater. They can be controlled by remote control. LUTRON sells a proprietary remote control for these controllers, but fortunately my HT dealer programmed my universal remote with the proper codes. So, while sitting comfortably in my seat, I can start the movie and dim the lights via remote control. They dim slowly providing a nice effect.
I recently found and purchased a Pac Man arcade game. Unfortunately, the monitor went blank a few weeks after we got it. I found a used monitor and replaced it, but the machine still isn't working. I found an arcade game repair specialist in the area, and he is coming to the house tonight to take a look. Hopefully we can have the game up and running for our family get together this Sunday.
It's been a while since I've written about the home theater.
Everything's working great, and I continue to be pleased with the PLUS Piano DLP projector. HD channels are clear and brilliant. DVD movies look great. By far, this projector is a better choice than a rear projection television, if you have a room dark enough for it.
I recently installed LUTRON Spacer Light Dimmers. These are dimmer switches that control the lighting in the theater. They can be controlled by remote control. LUTRON sells a proprietary remote control for these controllers, but fortunately my HT dealer programmed my universal remote with the proper codes. So, while sitting comfortably in my seat, I can start the movie and dim the lights via remote control. They dim slowly providing a nice effect.
I recently found and purchased a Pac Man arcade game. Unfortunately, the monitor went blank a few weeks after we got it. I found a used monitor and replaced it, but the machine still isn't working. I found an arcade game repair specialist in the area, and he is coming to the house tonight to take a look. Hopefully we can have the game up and running for our family get together this Sunday.
Windows 9x
Interesting article in eWeek on the lifespan of Microsoft's older operating systems. Developers' Take on Win 9X.
Fellow Quilogy employee, Jon Box is quoted in the article.
Interesting article in eWeek on the lifespan of Microsoft's older operating systems. Developers' Take on Win 9X.
Fellow Quilogy employee, Jon Box is quoted in the article.
Wednesday, January 28, 2004
DSL
Several years ago, when SBC was still Southwestern Bell, I ordered DSL service from SWB. One option with the SWB DSL service was your choice of ISP's. So, in effect, SWB provided the wire, and the ISP provided the service. I selected Grapevine at the time because they had a better web site hosting service for hosting a personal site.
Later, SWB changed to SBC, and somewhere in there, my DSL service was transferred completely to Grapevine. Instead of paying some money to SWB and some to Grapevine each month, I sent the entire amount to Grapevine. That worked great for a few years until this month when Grapevine folded up their tent and left town.
They sent me a letter a month ago advising me that they were discontinuing their residential DSL service and that I needed to find a new provider.
I called SBC and placed my order. The problem is that as long as Grapevine has the line, SBC cannot do anything. The customer sales rep described it as a one car garage. You can't pull your car in until they take their car out.
Yesterday, out of the blue, my DSL was turned off. I tried to call Grapevine to verify that they had switched me off, but their numbers are disconnected.
My next call to SBC resulted in that verification. They can now turn on the SBC DSL service since the Grapevine car had left the garage. But, of course, it's not as easy as turning on a light switch. It takes a week to turn it on. So, I'm without internet service at my house until next week.
It's a crazy business. Hopefully things will be smooth once the new service gets switched on.
Several years ago, when SBC was still Southwestern Bell, I ordered DSL service from SWB. One option with the SWB DSL service was your choice of ISP's. So, in effect, SWB provided the wire, and the ISP provided the service. I selected Grapevine at the time because they had a better web site hosting service for hosting a personal site.
Later, SWB changed to SBC, and somewhere in there, my DSL service was transferred completely to Grapevine. Instead of paying some money to SWB and some to Grapevine each month, I sent the entire amount to Grapevine. That worked great for a few years until this month when Grapevine folded up their tent and left town.
They sent me a letter a month ago advising me that they were discontinuing their residential DSL service and that I needed to find a new provider.
I called SBC and placed my order. The problem is that as long as Grapevine has the line, SBC cannot do anything. The customer sales rep described it as a one car garage. You can't pull your car in until they take their car out.
Yesterday, out of the blue, my DSL was turned off. I tried to call Grapevine to verify that they had switched me off, but their numbers are disconnected.
My next call to SBC resulted in that verification. They can now turn on the SBC DSL service since the Grapevine car had left the garage. But, of course, it's not as easy as turning on a light switch. It takes a week to turn it on. So, I'm without internet service at my house until next week.
It's a crazy business. Hopefully things will be smooth once the new service gets switched on.
Monday, January 26, 2004
Speed-Up Rules
This past Saturday, I attended a meeting of the Monarchs Chapter of SABR. The guest speakers were Brian McRae and John Sickels.
You can learn more about the meeting at Dan Fox's Blog, so I won't bore you with the details. But, Brian McRae did say something that interested me. Someone in the audience asked a question about the strike zone, and MLB's efforts to expand the strike zone and make it more consistent across the board. McRae's response began with a question: "Are you married?"
His point was just as your wife may have tried to change you when you were first married, you may have changed for a while, but eventually resorted back to who you really are. Same with umpires. The league may say "do it like this" and the umpires may do that for a while. But, umpires being umpires, they will tend to resort to their old ways. After all, if an umpire's been calling a game a certain way for 25 years, why change now?
The thing that really interested me was when McRae started talking about "speed-up rules." He said that in certain situations, like in a blow-out game, umpires will tend to call games in such a manner as to end the game more quickly. So, pitches that may normally have been balls are then called strikes. Or, a runner who would have been safe at second on a close, but missed tag, would be called out.
I've never really noticed this before. This is something I'll try to look for this season, while I'm watching the Royals run away with the AL Central.
This past Saturday, I attended a meeting of the Monarchs Chapter of SABR. The guest speakers were Brian McRae and John Sickels.
You can learn more about the meeting at Dan Fox's Blog, so I won't bore you with the details. But, Brian McRae did say something that interested me. Someone in the audience asked a question about the strike zone, and MLB's efforts to expand the strike zone and make it more consistent across the board. McRae's response began with a question: "Are you married?"
His point was just as your wife may have tried to change you when you were first married, you may have changed for a while, but eventually resorted back to who you really are. Same with umpires. The league may say "do it like this" and the umpires may do that for a while. But, umpires being umpires, they will tend to resort to their old ways. After all, if an umpire's been calling a game a certain way for 25 years, why change now?
The thing that really interested me was when McRae started talking about "speed-up rules." He said that in certain situations, like in a blow-out game, umpires will tend to call games in such a manner as to end the game more quickly. So, pitches that may normally have been balls are then called strikes. Or, a runner who would have been safe at second on a close, but missed tag, would be called out.
I've never really noticed this before. This is something I'll try to look for this season, while I'm watching the Royals run away with the AL Central.
Friday, January 23, 2004
Great Off-season
The Royals are wrapping up one of their best off-seasons ever.
Today, they signed Darrell May, thus avoiding arbitration. They also signed Carlos Beltran before reaching arbitration.
It's been a positive off season with some key free agent signings (Graffanino, Sullivan, Gonzalez, Santiago, Stairs and others), as well as convincing guys like Leskanic and Randa to stay in KC.
Now that everybody's signed, let's get the season started.
The Royals are wrapping up one of their best off-seasons ever.
Today, they signed Darrell May, thus avoiding arbitration. They also signed Carlos Beltran before reaching arbitration.
It's been a positive off season with some key free agent signings (Graffanino, Sullivan, Gonzalez, Santiago, Stairs and others), as well as convincing guys like Leskanic and Randa to stay in KC.
Now that everybody's signed, let's get the season started.
Tuesday, January 20, 2004
Tuesdays
I just finished Mitch Albom's Tuesdays with Morrie. I've seen Albom on ESPN off and on over the years, and was vaguely aware that he had written this book. I grabbed it on a whim while in the bookstore the other day, and read it in about 2 1/2 hours.
The book is building a reputation for "changing lives," and I can see how that can happen. The book recounts Albom's experiences as he spent each Tuesday over about 6 months with his dying professor from college. In the book, Albom describes how he had buried himself in his busy life and work schedule and how spending time with Morrie began to reshape his views on life - and death.
It's a quick and easy read, and wasn't quite as in depth as I would have liked. Each visit is briefly described by the topic of the day and a short description of the conversations. Many stories are only touched upon. I'm sure this is somewhat intentional. The goal of the book is to document what Morrie wanted to say about life, culture, marriage, death, and other heavy topics. By keeping the chapters to only a few pages, I found it easy to read through the entire book without feeling bogged down. Morrie's message was successfully delivered to this reader.
In the end, any reader is sure to be touched by Morrie's attitude and love for life - even when facing his own mortality.
I just finished Mitch Albom's Tuesdays with Morrie. I've seen Albom on ESPN off and on over the years, and was vaguely aware that he had written this book. I grabbed it on a whim while in the bookstore the other day, and read it in about 2 1/2 hours.
The book is building a reputation for "changing lives," and I can see how that can happen. The book recounts Albom's experiences as he spent each Tuesday over about 6 months with his dying professor from college. In the book, Albom describes how he had buried himself in his busy life and work schedule and how spending time with Morrie began to reshape his views on life - and death.
It's a quick and easy read, and wasn't quite as in depth as I would have liked. Each visit is briefly described by the topic of the day and a short description of the conversations. Many stories are only touched upon. I'm sure this is somewhat intentional. The goal of the book is to document what Morrie wanted to say about life, culture, marriage, death, and other heavy topics. By keeping the chapters to only a few pages, I found it easy to read through the entire book without feeling bogged down. Morrie's message was successfully delivered to this reader.
In the end, any reader is sure to be touched by Morrie's attitude and love for life - even when facing his own mortality.
Commish
Here's an interesting question to ponder: What would you do if you were baseball commissioner? I have a short list of items:
Here's an interesting question to ponder: What would you do if you were baseball commissioner? I have a short list of items:
- Make it illegal for the commissioner to have any interest in a ball club
- Settle the Expos situation
- Move a little closer to revenue sharing
- Enact a world draft
- Adjust the World Series game times so my son can see the end of at least one of the games
Saturday, January 17, 2004
Molitor Hall-Bound
In September of 1996, I decided to attend a Royals game with my neighbor Kent. I remember sitting at the game complaining that the crowd was so small. It's not surprising that the crowd was small - baseball was still in the shadows of the '94 strike season and the Royals were among the worst teams in baseball. But in this series against the Twins, KC fans had a chance to see a future hall of famer get his 3,000th hit.
It happened at that game. After Paul Molitor smacked his 3,000th hit, ushers distributed "I Was There" certificates to the small crowd. I still have mine with the ticket stub attached, framed and displayed in my home office.
Now, 7 years later, Molitor has been elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
It's starting to make me feel old. To me, Hall of Famers were always great players from the past, who I only saw on grainy old highlight films. Now, Hall of Famers are guys I actually saw play. In my adult life.
In September of 1996, I decided to attend a Royals game with my neighbor Kent. I remember sitting at the game complaining that the crowd was so small. It's not surprising that the crowd was small - baseball was still in the shadows of the '94 strike season and the Royals were among the worst teams in baseball. But in this series against the Twins, KC fans had a chance to see a future hall of famer get his 3,000th hit.
It happened at that game. After Paul Molitor smacked his 3,000th hit, ushers distributed "I Was There" certificates to the small crowd. I still have mine with the ticket stub attached, framed and displayed in my home office.
Now, 7 years later, Molitor has been elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
It's starting to make me feel old. To me, Hall of Famers were always great players from the past, who I only saw on grainy old highlight films. Now, Hall of Famers are guys I actually saw play. In my adult life.
Thursday, January 15, 2004
My Football Season Ends...
Chiefs lost...
Now on to baseball! This is the worst time of the year. There's nothing in sports to be interested in until Spring Training opens up in late February.
Because of that, I'm officially in count-down mode. In exactly 2 months, I will be in Arizona to check out some Cactus League baseball. I'll be going with my brother, my friend Dan and his father-in-law, and my son Joey.
I went out to Surprise last year for a Royals game. I flew in, drove to the stadium, watched the game, drove back to the airport and flew home. After that trip, I knew that I wanted to spend a couple of days out there with Joey and friends.
It should be fun. We'll be checking out the Giants, Cubs, Royals, and Rangers in our 3 day whirlwind trip. I hope it's like I remember last year, where the players are very relaxed and willing to spend time with the fans. We're excited at getting an early peek at the '04 Royals, including slugger Juan Gonzalez. Not to mention Sosa, Bonds, ARod and all the others.
Chiefs lost...
Now on to baseball! This is the worst time of the year. There's nothing in sports to be interested in until Spring Training opens up in late February.
Because of that, I'm officially in count-down mode. In exactly 2 months, I will be in Arizona to check out some Cactus League baseball. I'll be going with my brother, my friend Dan and his father-in-law, and my son Joey.
I went out to Surprise last year for a Royals game. I flew in, drove to the stadium, watched the game, drove back to the airport and flew home. After that trip, I knew that I wanted to spend a couple of days out there with Joey and friends.
It should be fun. We'll be checking out the Giants, Cubs, Royals, and Rangers in our 3 day whirlwind trip. I hope it's like I remember last year, where the players are very relaxed and willing to spend time with the fans. We're excited at getting an early peek at the '04 Royals, including slugger Juan Gonzalez. Not to mention Sosa, Bonds, ARod and all the others.
Tough to be a Parent
Last week, my 10 year-old son Joey came home from school all excited about a band called Pomeroy. It seems the school music teacher is friends with this regional band, and she had them stop by the school for a short concert assembly.
Seeing a real live band perform up close and personal can really spark fandome. That's why performers tour - assuming you'd be so impressed that you will then go buy the CD.
This is what happened. Joey loved Pomeroy so much that he wanted to go buy the CD. The band, of course, encouraged the kids to do so, mentioning that it's available at the local Best Buy store.
So, we bought the CD. As we were driving home from Best Buy, we put it in the CD player to check it out. Much to our surprise, we heard language that isn't appropriate for kids. Now, the language wasn't awful (no F-words and no mention of killing cops or anything like that), it was just innapropriate.
It just proves that as a parent, you must be very diligent about what your kids are doing. Imagine if I hadn't bothered to listen to the CD, and it did have worse material...
Last week, my 10 year-old son Joey came home from school all excited about a band called Pomeroy. It seems the school music teacher is friends with this regional band, and she had them stop by the school for a short concert assembly.
Seeing a real live band perform up close and personal can really spark fandome. That's why performers tour - assuming you'd be so impressed that you will then go buy the CD.
This is what happened. Joey loved Pomeroy so much that he wanted to go buy the CD. The band, of course, encouraged the kids to do so, mentioning that it's available at the local Best Buy store.
So, we bought the CD. As we were driving home from Best Buy, we put it in the CD player to check it out. Much to our surprise, we heard language that isn't appropriate for kids. Now, the language wasn't awful (no F-words and no mention of killing cops or anything like that), it was just innapropriate.
It just proves that as a parent, you must be very diligent about what your kids are doing. Imagine if I hadn't bothered to listen to the CD, and it did have worse material...
Tuesday, January 06, 2004
Royals Sign Juan Gone
Kansas City Royals : The Official Site
The Royals are looking good. Today they signed Juan Gonzalez, completing a very impressive lineup. I'm excited about this season. It's January and the Chiefs are in the playoffs, but I'm thinking baseball. I am pumped about a lineup that includes Juan Gone, Sweeney, Beltran... I'm loving it.
Potential Lineup:
Angel Berroa - SS
Carlos Beltran - CF
Mike Sweeney - 1B/DH
Juan Gonzalez - RF
Ken Harvey - 1B/DH
Joe Randa - 3B
Aaron Guiel/Matt Stairs - LF/DH
Benito Santiago - C
Desi Relaford/Tony Graffanino - 2B
SP: Appier, May, Anderson, Gobble, Asencio, Greinke, Affeldt
RP: Leskanic, Grimsley, Sullivan, Carrasco, Wilson, MacDougal
Kansas City Royals : The Official Site
The Royals are looking good. Today they signed Juan Gonzalez, completing a very impressive lineup. I'm excited about this season. It's January and the Chiefs are in the playoffs, but I'm thinking baseball. I am pumped about a lineup that includes Juan Gone, Sweeney, Beltran... I'm loving it.
Potential Lineup:
Angel Berroa - SS
Carlos Beltran - CF
Mike Sweeney - 1B/DH
Juan Gonzalez - RF
Ken Harvey - 1B/DH
Joe Randa - 3B
Aaron Guiel/Matt Stairs - LF/DH
Benito Santiago - C
Desi Relaford/Tony Graffanino - 2B
SP: Appier, May, Anderson, Gobble, Asencio, Greinke, Affeldt
RP: Leskanic, Grimsley, Sullivan, Carrasco, Wilson, MacDougal
Not So Rosey
Interesting opinion on the Pete Rose Situation:ESPN.com - MLB - Caple: Charlie Hustler
Personally, I think he should be in the Hall of Fame in recognition of his great career as a player (and as Caple says, with mention of his gambling on the plaque). But that should be it. He should never be allowed to participate in the game again. He's still a gambler, and nothing he has said or done has convinced me that he believes what he did was truely wrong and damaging to the sport.
He says he never fixed a game or let his bets affect his managing. I find that hard to believe. But even if that's true, his activities did affect the game. If the manager of a baseball team suddenly does not bet on his team one day, what does that tell the bookie? I don't like this situation at all, and I'm afraid that Rose's confession comes now only to promote his book, which of course leads to $$$.
Interesting opinion on the Pete Rose Situation:ESPN.com - MLB - Caple: Charlie Hustler
Personally, I think he should be in the Hall of Fame in recognition of his great career as a player (and as Caple says, with mention of his gambling on the plaque). But that should be it. He should never be allowed to participate in the game again. He's still a gambler, and nothing he has said or done has convinced me that he believes what he did was truely wrong and damaging to the sport.
He says he never fixed a game or let his bets affect his managing. I find that hard to believe. But even if that's true, his activities did affect the game. If the manager of a baseball team suddenly does not bet on his team one day, what does that tell the bookie? I don't like this situation at all, and I'm afraid that Rose's confession comes now only to promote his book, which of course leads to $$$.
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
Gadget
My present this year was an Apple iPod. This is my third MP3 player, and by far the best.
The device has a tiny 20GB hard drive inside, and it has the capacity to store every song from my collection.
First impressions are grand when opening the package. Apple is nothing if not stylish. The packaging makes you think you are truly priviledged to own one of these devices.
The device itself is great. Easy to use, solidly built. Apple's iTunes software is easy to use and flawlessly transfers music to the iPod. I'm running this on a Windows machine, and it works great.
My present this year was an Apple iPod. This is my third MP3 player, and by far the best.
The device has a tiny 20GB hard drive inside, and it has the capacity to store every song from my collection.
First impressions are grand when opening the package. Apple is nothing if not stylish. The packaging makes you think you are truly priviledged to own one of these devices.
The device itself is great. Easy to use, solidly built. Apple's iTunes software is easy to use and flawlessly transfers music to the iPod. I'm running this on a Windows machine, and it works great.
HP
For Christmas, I purchased a new HP digital camera and HP printer for my wife. The idea was to finally upgrade our digital camera, which is about 4 years old, and provide a way for her to easily and quickly print pictures.
Unfortunately, the HP products failed us. The camera was the worst product I've ever experienced. First, it wouldn't turn on. When hitting the power button, the camera would flash momentarily, then turn off. Fresh batteries didn't help. After hitting the power button several times, the camera would finally power up. The camera is designed to plug directly into an HP printer with a supplied cable. When trying this, we only got error messages.
I returned both items, and purchased a new Sony camera. Our old digital camera is a Sony and has worked perfectly for a long time. The new one is smaller, and produces higher resolution pictures.
As for printers, what we wanted was a small printer that would easily print photos. I like the small HP PhotoSmart printer for this. It has a small LCD screen on it. You can simply plug a memory card into it, select the pictures you want to print using the screen, then press the "Print" button. A nice product. I found one that was an "Open Box" item - it was a floor model that didn't include a box or manuals. It was discounted, but it also didn't work. It would never feed the paper in.
Needless to say, at this point, I was pretty disappointed with HP products. Unfortunately, HP dominates this market. No other manufacturer makes a printer like this, that I could find. Sony has one with similar functionality, but at $500 was too expensive for us. I finally settled on another HP printer (new, in the box) and so far, it is working well.
This follows similar HP problems I had when looking for an All-In-One (Printer/Fax/Scanner/Copier) for my home office. I won't go into that, but I went through 3 or 4 printers before finding one that works.
For Christmas, I purchased a new HP digital camera and HP printer for my wife. The idea was to finally upgrade our digital camera, which is about 4 years old, and provide a way for her to easily and quickly print pictures.
Unfortunately, the HP products failed us. The camera was the worst product I've ever experienced. First, it wouldn't turn on. When hitting the power button, the camera would flash momentarily, then turn off. Fresh batteries didn't help. After hitting the power button several times, the camera would finally power up. The camera is designed to plug directly into an HP printer with a supplied cable. When trying this, we only got error messages.
I returned both items, and purchased a new Sony camera. Our old digital camera is a Sony and has worked perfectly for a long time. The new one is smaller, and produces higher resolution pictures.
As for printers, what we wanted was a small printer that would easily print photos. I like the small HP PhotoSmart printer for this. It has a small LCD screen on it. You can simply plug a memory card into it, select the pictures you want to print using the screen, then press the "Print" button. A nice product. I found one that was an "Open Box" item - it was a floor model that didn't include a box or manuals. It was discounted, but it also didn't work. It would never feed the paper in.
Needless to say, at this point, I was pretty disappointed with HP products. Unfortunately, HP dominates this market. No other manufacturer makes a printer like this, that I could find. Sony has one with similar functionality, but at $500 was too expensive for us. I finally settled on another HP printer (new, in the box) and so far, it is working well.
This follows similar HP problems I had when looking for an All-In-One (Printer/Fax/Scanner/Copier) for my home office. I won't go into that, but I went through 3 or 4 printers before finding one that works.
Dreadlock Holiday
Another holiday season is drawing to a close. Again, I was blessed to enjoy family and friends this year.
Giving and receiving gifts was again a truly enjoyable experience this year. Each year, we take several "ornaments" from our church "giving tree." Each ornament represents a gift that an unfortunate person is wishing for. We usually take one orament for each of us, two for children and two for adults. This year, we took a few extra, and for me, nothing is more enjoyable than shopping for these gifts. I don't know the person, and they don't know who gave them these gifts. But I try to buy something a little better than they asked for. This year, one gift was a new wagon for a little girl. We brought the wagon home, and the kids and I assembled it. We included a nice stuffed toy with the wagon. I hope she will get lots of enjoyment out of that wagon.
This year kids loaded up on video games, board games, clothes and various other toys. They of course loved Christmas this year.
My wife's sister's family was able to come to town (they live in Houston), and so we were able to celebrate Christmas with the entire family. We enjoyed Christmas Mass with them.
Another holiday season is drawing to a close. Again, I was blessed to enjoy family and friends this year.
Giving and receiving gifts was again a truly enjoyable experience this year. Each year, we take several "ornaments" from our church "giving tree." Each ornament represents a gift that an unfortunate person is wishing for. We usually take one orament for each of us, two for children and two for adults. This year, we took a few extra, and for me, nothing is more enjoyable than shopping for these gifts. I don't know the person, and they don't know who gave them these gifts. But I try to buy something a little better than they asked for. This year, one gift was a new wagon for a little girl. We brought the wagon home, and the kids and I assembled it. We included a nice stuffed toy with the wagon. I hope she will get lots of enjoyment out of that wagon.
This year kids loaded up on video games, board games, clothes and various other toys. They of course loved Christmas this year.
My wife's sister's family was able to come to town (they live in Houston), and so we were able to celebrate Christmas with the entire family. We enjoyed Christmas Mass with them.
Tuesday, December 23, 2003
Royals Hot Stove Action
I've been really impressed with the Royals this off season. They've made some great moves, and have signed players that I never thought they would be able to sign. (most notably, Brian Anderson).
There's an indication that players are willing to sacrifice a little for the opportunity to play in KC for Tony Pena. Anderson is from Cleveland, and everybody thought he would return to pitch in his home town. Joe Randa gave up at least a million a year to stay in KC. Curtis Leskanic was going to retire, but decided to come back and play one or two more seasons with the Royals.
I'm looking forward to the 2004 season. Of course, I'm trying not to get my hopes up too high. Being a KC sports fan, it's easy to think something great is about to happen only to have it pulled out from under you. (see the Chiefs, they are currently yanking on the rug).
If the Royals could find one more player, preferable a corner outfielder who has power (Going-Going-Gonzalez), they will enter the season with a formidable line up and as favorites to win the AL Central. Should be fun!
I've been really impressed with the Royals this off season. They've made some great moves, and have signed players that I never thought they would be able to sign. (most notably, Brian Anderson).
There's an indication that players are willing to sacrifice a little for the opportunity to play in KC for Tony Pena. Anderson is from Cleveland, and everybody thought he would return to pitch in his home town. Joe Randa gave up at least a million a year to stay in KC. Curtis Leskanic was going to retire, but decided to come back and play one or two more seasons with the Royals.
I'm looking forward to the 2004 season. Of course, I'm trying not to get my hopes up too high. Being a KC sports fan, it's easy to think something great is about to happen only to have it pulled out from under you. (see the Chiefs, they are currently yanking on the rug).
If the Royals could find one more player, preferable a corner outfielder who has power (Going-Going-Gonzalez), they will enter the season with a formidable line up and as favorites to win the AL Central. Should be fun!
Scoring Update
In football, it's possible to score 6, 3, 2, even 1 point on a play. In basketball, you can score 3, 2, or 1 point on a play. Wouldn't it be interesting if baseball had something similar? (of course, it doesn't. Its simplicity is part of its beauty). But, what if scoring were based on number of bases instead of number of runs. Hit a double, get 2 points. Triples score 3 points. I would be curious to see what percentage of game's outcomes would change using this scoring system.
In football, it's possible to score 6, 3, 2, even 1 point on a play. In basketball, you can score 3, 2, or 1 point on a play. Wouldn't it be interesting if baseball had something similar? (of course, it doesn't. Its simplicity is part of its beauty). But, what if scoring were based on number of bases instead of number of runs. Hit a double, get 2 points. Triples score 3 points. I would be curious to see what percentage of game's outcomes would change using this scoring system.
Friday, December 19, 2003
Undaunted Courage
I just finished Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose. This book tells the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition to the west. It's an interesting snapshot of the history of our country. While Lewis and Clark are considered to be the "first" white men to explore the west, actually, French and English traders had already trekked through the country, mostly heading south from Canada.
Lewis and Clark did, however make a great contribution to our history. While they did not succeed in their mission to find an unobstructed water way to the Pacific, they did make many scientific discoveries and convinced several indian nations that the U.S. was friendly (in 1804-05, the U.S. was indian-friendly. Later, the progress of the country changed the indian policy).
Ambrose's book goes into great detail on Lewis' personality. While a great explorer, Lewis suffered from deppression and was hooked on drugs and alcohol. After returning from the expedition, he was appointed governor of the Louisiana territory, but he failed at this job, along with failing to ever get his journals published. He depression eventually led to his suicide in 1809.
The book also provides some interesting history on Thomas Jefferson, the president who most pushed for western expansion.
In all, a very good book which provides great insight into our history. I also have a copy of Nothing Like It in the World, Ambrose's account of the building of the TransContinental Railroad. I plan on reading that next.
I just finished Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose. This book tells the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition to the west. It's an interesting snapshot of the history of our country. While Lewis and Clark are considered to be the "first" white men to explore the west, actually, French and English traders had already trekked through the country, mostly heading south from Canada.
Lewis and Clark did, however make a great contribution to our history. While they did not succeed in their mission to find an unobstructed water way to the Pacific, they did make many scientific discoveries and convinced several indian nations that the U.S. was friendly (in 1804-05, the U.S. was indian-friendly. Later, the progress of the country changed the indian policy).
Ambrose's book goes into great detail on Lewis' personality. While a great explorer, Lewis suffered from deppression and was hooked on drugs and alcohol. After returning from the expedition, he was appointed governor of the Louisiana territory, but he failed at this job, along with failing to ever get his journals published. He depression eventually led to his suicide in 1809.
The book also provides some interesting history on Thomas Jefferson, the president who most pushed for western expansion.
In all, a very good book which provides great insight into our history. I also have a copy of Nothing Like It in the World, Ambrose's account of the building of the TransContinental Railroad. I plan on reading that next.
Thursday, December 18, 2003
DVR
I picked up my Time Warner Cable DVR Box yesterday. This box replaces a digital cable box that we had in our living room. In the first 24 hours of use, I've been very impressed with the box. This is Time Warner's attempt to get in on the TIVO wave. It has its advantages over TIVO. First, you don't have to fork over $300 for the box, and the monthly fee is less than TIVO's $12.95.
Using this box, I may never miss a TV show again (I wanted to watch the President Bush interview the other night, but forgot to tune it in until it was almost over). This box has a hard disc inside, and it records using MPEG video.
Any time you turn it on and watch TV, it is recording the show. That means that if you missed something, you could hit the "instant replay" button, and it will replay the last 30 seconds. Or, hit the pause button to answer the phone, then resume the show when ready. This is a great feature. It's like power windows in cars. Until you had them, you didn't realize how convenient they are.
The box also does standard recording. From the program guide (the same guide that is in the standard digital cable box), you can select any show and press the "record" button. The box will then ask if you want to record just that one episode, or the "entire series." It also offers options for recording all episodes (including reruns), or just the first run episodes. It can also search for the same show on any channel. For example, I asked it to record Seinfeld, and it records the show anywhere it finds it, on any channel, at any time. It's flexible enough to let you specify to only record shows on weekdays, weekends, or a specific day of the week, or a specific time of day.
We've already used it quite a bit. My wife was able to catch Oprah yesterday, I've grabbed 6 episodes of Seinfeld already. There was a segment of the O'Reilly Factor that I missed, so I simply "rewound" it and watched it.
I've been reading a lot of comments on message boards from folks who have been having problems with this DVR box. I'll test it out and see how it works. So far, so good!
I picked up my Time Warner Cable DVR Box yesterday. This box replaces a digital cable box that we had in our living room. In the first 24 hours of use, I've been very impressed with the box. This is Time Warner's attempt to get in on the TIVO wave. It has its advantages over TIVO. First, you don't have to fork over $300 for the box, and the monthly fee is less than TIVO's $12.95.
Using this box, I may never miss a TV show again (I wanted to watch the President Bush interview the other night, but forgot to tune it in until it was almost over). This box has a hard disc inside, and it records using MPEG video.
Any time you turn it on and watch TV, it is recording the show. That means that if you missed something, you could hit the "instant replay" button, and it will replay the last 30 seconds. Or, hit the pause button to answer the phone, then resume the show when ready. This is a great feature. It's like power windows in cars. Until you had them, you didn't realize how convenient they are.
The box also does standard recording. From the program guide (the same guide that is in the standard digital cable box), you can select any show and press the "record" button. The box will then ask if you want to record just that one episode, or the "entire series." It also offers options for recording all episodes (including reruns), or just the first run episodes. It can also search for the same show on any channel. For example, I asked it to record Seinfeld, and it records the show anywhere it finds it, on any channel, at any time. It's flexible enough to let you specify to only record shows on weekdays, weekends, or a specific day of the week, or a specific time of day.
We've already used it quite a bit. My wife was able to catch Oprah yesterday, I've grabbed 6 episodes of Seinfeld already. There was a segment of the O'Reilly Factor that I missed, so I simply "rewound" it and watched it.
I've been reading a lot of comments on message boards from folks who have been having problems with this DVR box. I'll test it out and see how it works. So far, so good!
Workflow and SharePoint
I just met with a potential client in the LA area. We showed them SharePoint and what it can do for them. They were extremely impressed, however, their main concern revolved around workflow.
I'm looking for a good solution to integrate workflow in a SharePoint solution. I've found some information on MSDN, and I believe there are some third party vendors looking at solutions.
Seems like a perfect fit for SharePoint. Seems perfectly logical for a document library to be able to manage the flow of say, a purchase order.
I just met with a potential client in the LA area. We showed them SharePoint and what it can do for them. They were extremely impressed, however, their main concern revolved around workflow.
I'm looking for a good solution to integrate workflow in a SharePoint solution. I've found some information on MSDN, and I believe there are some third party vendors looking at solutions.
Seems like a perfect fit for SharePoint. Seems perfectly logical for a document library to be able to manage the flow of say, a purchase order.
Monday, December 15, 2003
Cable vs. Satellite
I've been a cable TV viewer for the past 4 or 5 years. Before that, in my old house, I owned a BUD (big ugly dish). My BUD was a big ole 10 foot dish that took up the entire back yard. Back then, the cable in our area was poor, which is why I bought the dish system. In the years that I was watching satellite TV, our local cable system was bought by Time Warner Cable, and the improvements came fast and furious.
Back then, owning a dish meant choosing between some 25 or so programming providers. That level of competition kept prices low. I bought my programming on an annual basis, and the monthly rate averaged about $22.00 per month. That's for a standard package similar to DirecTV's Total Choice package. Shortly after I purchased my big dish, the small dishes started to hit the market.
Every few months, I evaluate my cable package and comparable satellite packages to see if I should switch. So far, I have not found enough reasons to switch to satellite. The biggest reason of all is ease of installation. When I built my house, I ran cable to every room in the house. So now, if I want to watch the Food Network in my den, I simply carry a small TV in there and plug in the cable. Boom! I'm watching Food! The main cable comes into the house, and it is then split to all the rooms. In three rooms, we have a digital cable box. This box allows us to watch HBO, and in two of our rooms, gives us a handful of HDTV channels (I'm watching Monday Night Football in HiDef as I type this).
Occassionally, when our children need to stay home sick from school, we can simply move a small TV into their bedroom, plug it in, and then they are able to watch Cartoon Network in bed. Easy as pie.
The reason I evaluate my cable package every so often is because my cable is in the neighborhood of $80.00 per month, which makes me cringe a bit everytime I write that check. The HBO package is an additional $10 or $15 per month (I don't remember for sure), and each digital cable box is about $9 per month. Meaning, on top of my standard cable package, I'm paying an additional 30 or 40 bucks.
But, I've not had to go out and purchase any equipment. And, when new, better equipment becomes available, I can just take my old box to the nearby cable store and exchange it for the new-fangled device. For example, I will soon trade in a digital cable box for a DVR. That means I can have TIVO-like capabilities without having to fork over the $400 for the box and the extra $13/month for the service. The DVR adds about 4 dollars to my monthly cable bill.
With satellite, it's not nearly as simple to hook up multiple TV's. The satellite companies are trying by offering "3 room" or "4 room" systems. But in each case, a separate cable needs to be run from the dish all the way to the room where the receiver will sit. Which means instead of simply splitting it out to the house, I have to make sure each cable runs uninterrupted from dish to receiver. And, the dish antennas I have seen are limited to 4 receivers. And, each additional receiver costs an additional $5.00 per month. Granted, digital cable boxes cost twice as much monthly, but the box is not REQUIRED to watch cable.
Everytime I analyze the cost of purchasing the dish and all of the receivers I would need (at least 4, but right now I have 6 TV's hooked to cable), as well as the programming and the additional receiver fees, the total turns out to be very similar to my current monthly cable bill. Not to mention that some technical wizardry and expense is required to hook up more than 4 receivers (that may even require a second dish!).
I've been pretty happy with my cable service. The competition from satellite has forced Time Warner Cable to keep improving their service. I get all of the channels I want, in any room I want (without setting up additional equipment). I can get HiDef channels, and a DVR box is available. All for a price that is similar to the DirecTV monthly price.
Another comment about DirecTV. I recently had the pleasure of purchasing a DirecTV system, and setting up three receivers. At first, I was very excited about the self-service aspect of activating and purchasing my programming on-line at Directv.com. I set up the dish and three receivers, and was able to acquire the signal. I then went to the web site and proceeded to activate the primary receiver. Each receiver has a unique serial number as well as a unique receiver ID number. Then, each receiver requires an access card (looks like an American Express Blue card - smart chip and all) inserted. Each card has a unique ID number. So that's three unique numbers that have to be provided to "turn on" a receiver.
I entered all of the required information, and the activation failed. I eventually called the customer service line and a human activated the first receiver for me (very helpful, no hold time). I then needed to activate two more receivers. I attempted both on the web site, and both failed. In all, I made 4 calls to DirecTV to get the system up and running. Not that I hate talking to people, I just think it's much more convenient when the process can be automated. It's too bad DirecTV's systems aren't quite up to snuff.
I also feel like DirecTV is sort of a "big brother." To purchase the dish and receivers, I had to provide my name and address, as well as a credit card. I also had to sign an agreement that I would activate the system within 30 days or they could charge me an additional $150 per receiver. When making the purchase, the serial numbers and access card numbers are tied to me.
Then, when activating, all of those ID numbers are required. The receivers are "required" to be plugged into a phone line. The whole thing makes me feel very uncomfortable.
Of course, just like the "activation" process for Microsoft Office products, these tactics are the direct result of crooks. People buying DirecTV systems and hacking them to receive programming for free. It's a pain in the ass, but I suppose necessary in today's world.
One last note. Since DirecTV is the only provider of programming for this system, there is no (or very little) competition. I preferred the days when I could choose programming from more than 20 providers. I wonder what the effect of the DirecTV/Dish Network merger would have been?
I've been a cable TV viewer for the past 4 or 5 years. Before that, in my old house, I owned a BUD (big ugly dish). My BUD was a big ole 10 foot dish that took up the entire back yard. Back then, the cable in our area was poor, which is why I bought the dish system. In the years that I was watching satellite TV, our local cable system was bought by Time Warner Cable, and the improvements came fast and furious.
Back then, owning a dish meant choosing between some 25 or so programming providers. That level of competition kept prices low. I bought my programming on an annual basis, and the monthly rate averaged about $22.00 per month. That's for a standard package similar to DirecTV's Total Choice package. Shortly after I purchased my big dish, the small dishes started to hit the market.
Every few months, I evaluate my cable package and comparable satellite packages to see if I should switch. So far, I have not found enough reasons to switch to satellite. The biggest reason of all is ease of installation. When I built my house, I ran cable to every room in the house. So now, if I want to watch the Food Network in my den, I simply carry a small TV in there and plug in the cable. Boom! I'm watching Food! The main cable comes into the house, and it is then split to all the rooms. In three rooms, we have a digital cable box. This box allows us to watch HBO, and in two of our rooms, gives us a handful of HDTV channels (I'm watching Monday Night Football in HiDef as I type this).
Occassionally, when our children need to stay home sick from school, we can simply move a small TV into their bedroom, plug it in, and then they are able to watch Cartoon Network in bed. Easy as pie.
The reason I evaluate my cable package every so often is because my cable is in the neighborhood of $80.00 per month, which makes me cringe a bit everytime I write that check. The HBO package is an additional $10 or $15 per month (I don't remember for sure), and each digital cable box is about $9 per month. Meaning, on top of my standard cable package, I'm paying an additional 30 or 40 bucks.
But, I've not had to go out and purchase any equipment. And, when new, better equipment becomes available, I can just take my old box to the nearby cable store and exchange it for the new-fangled device. For example, I will soon trade in a digital cable box for a DVR. That means I can have TIVO-like capabilities without having to fork over the $400 for the box and the extra $13/month for the service. The DVR adds about 4 dollars to my monthly cable bill.
With satellite, it's not nearly as simple to hook up multiple TV's. The satellite companies are trying by offering "3 room" or "4 room" systems. But in each case, a separate cable needs to be run from the dish all the way to the room where the receiver will sit. Which means instead of simply splitting it out to the house, I have to make sure each cable runs uninterrupted from dish to receiver. And, the dish antennas I have seen are limited to 4 receivers. And, each additional receiver costs an additional $5.00 per month. Granted, digital cable boxes cost twice as much monthly, but the box is not REQUIRED to watch cable.
Everytime I analyze the cost of purchasing the dish and all of the receivers I would need (at least 4, but right now I have 6 TV's hooked to cable), as well as the programming and the additional receiver fees, the total turns out to be very similar to my current monthly cable bill. Not to mention that some technical wizardry and expense is required to hook up more than 4 receivers (that may even require a second dish!).
I've been pretty happy with my cable service. The competition from satellite has forced Time Warner Cable to keep improving their service. I get all of the channels I want, in any room I want (without setting up additional equipment). I can get HiDef channels, and a DVR box is available. All for a price that is similar to the DirecTV monthly price.
Another comment about DirecTV. I recently had the pleasure of purchasing a DirecTV system, and setting up three receivers. At first, I was very excited about the self-service aspect of activating and purchasing my programming on-line at Directv.com. I set up the dish and three receivers, and was able to acquire the signal. I then went to the web site and proceeded to activate the primary receiver. Each receiver has a unique serial number as well as a unique receiver ID number. Then, each receiver requires an access card (looks like an American Express Blue card - smart chip and all) inserted. Each card has a unique ID number. So that's three unique numbers that have to be provided to "turn on" a receiver.
I entered all of the required information, and the activation failed. I eventually called the customer service line and a human activated the first receiver for me (very helpful, no hold time). I then needed to activate two more receivers. I attempted both on the web site, and both failed. In all, I made 4 calls to DirecTV to get the system up and running. Not that I hate talking to people, I just think it's much more convenient when the process can be automated. It's too bad DirecTV's systems aren't quite up to snuff.
I also feel like DirecTV is sort of a "big brother." To purchase the dish and receivers, I had to provide my name and address, as well as a credit card. I also had to sign an agreement that I would activate the system within 30 days or they could charge me an additional $150 per receiver. When making the purchase, the serial numbers and access card numbers are tied to me.
Then, when activating, all of those ID numbers are required. The receivers are "required" to be plugged into a phone line. The whole thing makes me feel very uncomfortable.
Of course, just like the "activation" process for Microsoft Office products, these tactics are the direct result of crooks. People buying DirecTV systems and hacking them to receive programming for free. It's a pain in the ass, but I suppose necessary in today's world.
One last note. Since DirecTV is the only provider of programming for this system, there is no (or very little) competition. I preferred the days when I could choose programming from more than 20 providers. I wonder what the effect of the DirecTV/Dish Network merger would have been?
Monday, December 08, 2003
Sonic
I think Sonic is probably my favorite fast food restaurant (except for LC's Hamburgers, which is locally owned, not a humongo national chain).
But, I'm really perturbed by Sonic's most recent ad campaign. I'm sorry, but seeing these two a-holes deriding the workers at other restaurants does not make me want to eat at Sonic. "Can we plug our Crock Pot of chili in here?" Please.
Note to Sonic - go back to the happy, Beach Boys feel of your older commercials.
I think Sonic is probably my favorite fast food restaurant (except for LC's Hamburgers, which is locally owned, not a humongo national chain).
But, I'm really perturbed by Sonic's most recent ad campaign. I'm sorry, but seeing these two a-holes deriding the workers at other restaurants does not make me want to eat at Sonic. "Can we plug our Crock Pot of chili in here?" Please.
Note to Sonic - go back to the happy, Beach Boys feel of your older commercials.
Grims
Suprising move. The Royals were able to sign relief pitcher Jason Grimsley. Grims was just quoted in the paper as saying that he didn't think he would be able to reach an agreement with the Royals. Hopefully, in 2004, Grims won't be quite so over-used. In '03, Grimsley was used way too much, and his effectiveness really faded after the All Star Break.
Suprising move. The Royals were able to sign relief pitcher Jason Grimsley. Grims was just quoted in the paper as saying that he didn't think he would be able to reach an agreement with the Royals. Hopefully, in 2004, Grims won't be quite so over-used. In '03, Grimsley was used way too much, and his effectiveness really faded after the All Star Break.
Sunday, December 07, 2003
Loss 2
The Chiefs suffered the second loss of the season this year. Several years ago, I was a die-hard Chiefs fan. In college, I lived and died with the Chiefs (back then, mosty died). In 1989, I graduated from college, and landed my first full-time job. My first major purchase was season tickets to the Chiefs. That was the same year that Lamar Hunt finally got tired of losing and hire Carl Peterson to lead the team. Peterson brought Marty Schottenheimer to KC, and the Chiefs began a reign of NFL success. My girlfriend and then wife accompanied me to many tailgate parties and games through the years.
Over the last couple of years, however, I've grown tired of the Arrowhead experience. I still fork over the cash for season tickets each year, and I attend at least half of the games, but I just can't seem to enjoy it like I used to. I think it is the effect of growing old(er). I just don't enjoy fighting the crowds there. Since 9/11, getting in the gates is a tedious task involving bag searches and pat-downs. I've gotten to the point where I'd much rather sit in my comfortable living room and enjoy the game. This could be a result of spending so much time at Kauffman Stadium over the last few years. I've come to a point in my life where the slower, more relaxed feel of baseball is much more desireous. Of course, that being said, I did just recently send in my check for playoff tickets. There's hope in me that I can enjoy a successful post-season. Perhaps if the team can reach the Super Bowl (oh wait, I'm not a license holder - the Championship Game in Houston) I can then pass my fandome on to others.
The Chiefs suffered the second loss of the season this year. Several years ago, I was a die-hard Chiefs fan. In college, I lived and died with the Chiefs (back then, mosty died). In 1989, I graduated from college, and landed my first full-time job. My first major purchase was season tickets to the Chiefs. That was the same year that Lamar Hunt finally got tired of losing and hire Carl Peterson to lead the team. Peterson brought Marty Schottenheimer to KC, and the Chiefs began a reign of NFL success. My girlfriend and then wife accompanied me to many tailgate parties and games through the years.
Over the last couple of years, however, I've grown tired of the Arrowhead experience. I still fork over the cash for season tickets each year, and I attend at least half of the games, but I just can't seem to enjoy it like I used to. I think it is the effect of growing old(er). I just don't enjoy fighting the crowds there. Since 9/11, getting in the gates is a tedious task involving bag searches and pat-downs. I've gotten to the point where I'd much rather sit in my comfortable living room and enjoy the game. This could be a result of spending so much time at Kauffman Stadium over the last few years. I've come to a point in my life where the slower, more relaxed feel of baseball is much more desireous. Of course, that being said, I did just recently send in my check for playoff tickets. There's hope in me that I can enjoy a successful post-season. Perhaps if the team can reach the Super Bowl (oh wait, I'm not a license holder - the Championship Game in Houston) I can then pass my fandome on to others.
Thursday, December 04, 2003
Free agents
The Royals had a good day last week. Though Raul Ibanez slipped away to Seattle, the R's managed to sign Joe Randa (3B), Brian Anderson (SP), and Curtis Leskanic (RP).
I like Joe Randa, but was rather indifferent about resigning him. He had a great year in 2003, but at his age, the decline could come quickly. He is a Kansas City guy (lives here year 'round), so the hometown guy is always well liked. Since the R's had nobody to take over at third, it is a good signing.
Leskanic is a great signing. The R's traded for him mid-season and he was a solidifying factor in the bullpen. A great set up man who could close if needed.
The big one here is Anderson. He's a guy who should have been a much-coveted free agent. A left hander who has learned to pitch with finesse and eats up innings. He could be a 2 or 3 starter on just about any team. For the R's he'll probably be the 2 guy with May getting the number 1 spot coming out of Spring Training.
There are rumors that the R's are looking at signing Benito Santiago, Matt Stairs and Raul Mondesi. They definitely need a catcher - I'll be glad to see the human automatic out (Mayne) gone. Benito is older than dirt, but he's durable, and can hit some. Joe Posnanski of the Kansas City Star says:
"They would like very much to sign Benito Santiago, which would be great because it would mean the Royals would have two of the three National League All-Star catchers from 1989. OK, one of them is Tony Pena. No matter. Santiago even at age 87 is the best catcher available at the Royals' price."
Stairs would be a good signing. He can play left, and 1B. After losing Ibanez, and with Sweeney's health issuse, Stairs could be a great addition.
I'm not too keen on Mondesi. I'm not real familiar with him, but I have the impression that he wouldn't be a good club-house guy. Plus, he's never realized his potential. Great talent, but has never put up the numbers.
The Royals had a good day last week. Though Raul Ibanez slipped away to Seattle, the R's managed to sign Joe Randa (3B), Brian Anderson (SP), and Curtis Leskanic (RP).
I like Joe Randa, but was rather indifferent about resigning him. He had a great year in 2003, but at his age, the decline could come quickly. He is a Kansas City guy (lives here year 'round), so the hometown guy is always well liked. Since the R's had nobody to take over at third, it is a good signing.
Leskanic is a great signing. The R's traded for him mid-season and he was a solidifying factor in the bullpen. A great set up man who could close if needed.
The big one here is Anderson. He's a guy who should have been a much-coveted free agent. A left hander who has learned to pitch with finesse and eats up innings. He could be a 2 or 3 starter on just about any team. For the R's he'll probably be the 2 guy with May getting the number 1 spot coming out of Spring Training.
There are rumors that the R's are looking at signing Benito Santiago, Matt Stairs and Raul Mondesi. They definitely need a catcher - I'll be glad to see the human automatic out (Mayne) gone. Benito is older than dirt, but he's durable, and can hit some. Joe Posnanski of the Kansas City Star says:
"They would like very much to sign Benito Santiago, which would be great because it would mean the Royals would have two of the three National League All-Star catchers from 1989. OK, one of them is Tony Pena. No matter. Santiago even at age 87 is the best catcher available at the Royals' price."
Stairs would be a good signing. He can play left, and 1B. After losing Ibanez, and with Sweeney's health issuse, Stairs could be a great addition.
I'm not too keen on Mondesi. I'm not real familiar with him, but I have the impression that he wouldn't be a good club-house guy. Plus, he's never realized his potential. Great talent, but has never put up the numbers.
Tuesday, December 02, 2003
Stadia
Interesting article on how baseball has finally hit a lull in new stadium construction.
This was a big topic in KC a couple of years ago. There was an effort to put a tax on the ballot for stadium renovations (to both Kauffman and Arrowhead). This, of course, fired up the debate on whether these 30 year old stadiums should be spruced up, or new ones built.
For years, KC has struggled with a deteriorating downtown area. It seems that once 5:00 hits, everybody heads for the 'burbs and downtown is dead. Some wanted a new stadium built in the downtown area, saying that would spur development in the area and revive the city. At the time, I was in agreement. I thought having a ballpark downtown was a great idea.
This past summer, I spent a lot of time at Kauffman stadium. I've now decided that the Royals should play there as long as possible. It's just a great stadium. And I still love the idea of having the two stadiums (Arrowhead and Kauffman) right next to each other.
The stadiums could use some upgrades. Both have concourses that are too narrow, making it difficult to walk around the stadium. Arrowhead is in desperate need of more women's bathrooms. And both would benefit from increased and enhanced luxury suites.
The stadium refurbishment tax never made it to the ballot, but I'm sure the backers will try again soon. It will get my vote.
Interesting article on how baseball has finally hit a lull in new stadium construction.
This was a big topic in KC a couple of years ago. There was an effort to put a tax on the ballot for stadium renovations (to both Kauffman and Arrowhead). This, of course, fired up the debate on whether these 30 year old stadiums should be spruced up, or new ones built.
For years, KC has struggled with a deteriorating downtown area. It seems that once 5:00 hits, everybody heads for the 'burbs and downtown is dead. Some wanted a new stadium built in the downtown area, saying that would spur development in the area and revive the city. At the time, I was in agreement. I thought having a ballpark downtown was a great idea.
This past summer, I spent a lot of time at Kauffman stadium. I've now decided that the Royals should play there as long as possible. It's just a great stadium. And I still love the idea of having the two stadiums (Arrowhead and Kauffman) right next to each other.
The stadiums could use some upgrades. Both have concourses that are too narrow, making it difficult to walk around the stadium. Arrowhead is in desperate need of more women's bathrooms. And both would benefit from increased and enhanced luxury suites.
The stadium refurbishment tax never made it to the ballot, but I'm sure the backers will try again soon. It will get my vote.
Wednesday, November 26, 2003
Monster's Ball
I watched the movie "Monster's Ball" the other night. A dark, somewhat depressing movie about a prison guard (Billy Bob Thornton) who's racist attitude is softened when he falls in love with the black wife (Halle Berry) of a convict he helped execute.
A great movie. If you find yourself with a couple of hours without kids around (a very "R" rated movie), take a look at it. Great movie.
I watched the movie "Monster's Ball" the other night. A dark, somewhat depressing movie about a prison guard (Billy Bob Thornton) who's racist attitude is softened when he falls in love with the black wife (Halle Berry) of a convict he helped execute.
A great movie. If you find yourself with a couple of hours without kids around (a very "R" rated movie), take a look at it. Great movie.
It's an Effing joke
I enjoy a bit of crudeness as much as the next guy. But I was really concerned when I read Dan Fox's remarks regarding the use of the F-Word on TV. The "legend" is that the FCC has approved the use of the word on TV. This is not true (thankfully). The confusion arose when U2 lead singer uttered the word on a recent awards broadcast. The FCC received complaints, but determined that this particular incident did not violate FCC regulations (huh?). Their reasoning was somewhat ubscure, but basically, this was an isolated incident.
Rest assured however, that the FCC has not approved the use of the word on TV. But, this does bring up an interesting point. The F-word cannot be used on TV under most circumstances, but I'm convinced that one day, it will be allowed. Language on TV is already becoming crude. As a father of two young children, I find it increasingly difficult to shield them. Watch any sit-com tonight. See if you hear the word "ass," or references to sex. Again, I'm no prude, but I think it would be nice to let the TV be on a network channel without worrying about what my kids are hearing.
And the radio is even worse. The FM stations that play the music that kids typically enjoy have morning zoo shows that are beyond distasteful.
Add to that the limited number of movies that are kid-friendly, and we can see why parenting is so difficult. Even "kids" movies do not meet with my approval. I remember a recent movie called "The Iron Giant." This was an animated movie about a boy who befriends a giant robot from outer space. The movie is obviously aimed at children, however, the producers found it necessary to squeeze "damn" and "hell" into the film. Why? Tamer words would have worked just as well ("darn" and "heck").
I enjoy a bit of crudeness as much as the next guy. But I was really concerned when I read Dan Fox's remarks regarding the use of the F-Word on TV. The "legend" is that the FCC has approved the use of the word on TV. This is not true (thankfully). The confusion arose when U2 lead singer uttered the word on a recent awards broadcast. The FCC received complaints, but determined that this particular incident did not violate FCC regulations (huh?). Their reasoning was somewhat ubscure, but basically, this was an isolated incident.
Rest assured however, that the FCC has not approved the use of the word on TV. But, this does bring up an interesting point. The F-word cannot be used on TV under most circumstances, but I'm convinced that one day, it will be allowed. Language on TV is already becoming crude. As a father of two young children, I find it increasingly difficult to shield them. Watch any sit-com tonight. See if you hear the word "ass," or references to sex. Again, I'm no prude, but I think it would be nice to let the TV be on a network channel without worrying about what my kids are hearing.
And the radio is even worse. The FM stations that play the music that kids typically enjoy have morning zoo shows that are beyond distasteful.
Add to that the limited number of movies that are kid-friendly, and we can see why parenting is so difficult. Even "kids" movies do not meet with my approval. I remember a recent movie called "The Iron Giant." This was an animated movie about a boy who befriends a giant robot from outer space. The movie is obviously aimed at children, however, the producers found it necessary to squeeze "damn" and "hell" into the film. Why? Tamer words would have worked just as well ("darn" and "heck").
Thursday, November 20, 2003
Royals Moves
My favorite Royals Fans, Rob and Rany, have a new entry in their running dialog about the Royals. Most interesting are the comments on Raul Ibanez, who just signed as a free agent with the Mariners. As much as I liked Raul, I'm glad the M's signed him. Raul's a great player, but his age and salary prevent him from being a member of the Royals. And by the M's being so impatient to sign him, the Royals get 2 draft picks. A great deal for the Royals.
The Royals are also in the process of moving the fences back at Kauffman Stadium. Also a great move. The Royals have always been built as a speed, gap hitting team. The Royals have never been a power team, and the closer fences hurt the Royals' young pitchers more than helped their hitters.
It should be an interesting off season as the Royals try to build on the surprise success of 2003.
My favorite Royals Fans, Rob and Rany, have a new entry in their running dialog about the Royals. Most interesting are the comments on Raul Ibanez, who just signed as a free agent with the Mariners. As much as I liked Raul, I'm glad the M's signed him. Raul's a great player, but his age and salary prevent him from being a member of the Royals. And by the M's being so impatient to sign him, the Royals get 2 draft picks. A great deal for the Royals.
The Royals are also in the process of moving the fences back at Kauffman Stadium. Also a great move. The Royals have always been built as a speed, gap hitting team. The Royals have never been a power team, and the closer fences hurt the Royals' young pitchers more than helped their hitters.
It should be an interesting off season as the Royals try to build on the surprise success of 2003.
Tuesday, November 18, 2003
Friday, November 14, 2003
Godfather
I watched all three Godfather movies this week - two on Saturday and the third Tuesday evening. Obviously, the first Godfather movie is a classic. A great movie. I love its meandering pace, and it's interesting to see the transformation of Micheal from "that's my family, that's not me" into a full fledged gangster.
The second movie is also pretty good, but way too long, in my opinion. The second continues to follow Michael's life as he builds up his wealth with Las Vegal casinos. The movie also flashes back to tell the story of how Vito, the original godfather, ended up in America and how he gained his power. Interesting to know, but not necessary. The movie also takes us to Cuba for a confusing sequence of events. I'm still not sure if Hyman Roth was Michael's friend or enemy, or why there was rioting in Havanna. The powerful ending of the movie had Michael commiting an act that he would regret for the rest of his life.
Godfather Part III is just a confusing mess. This time, we pick up Michael after he's sold all of his casinos and has become a very wealthy man. The movie tries to tell us how Michael is involved with business deals with the Catholic Church. We see that his health if failing a bit, his son has become an opera singer, and his daughter has fallen in love with her cousin. The best scene involved Michael confessing his sins to the soon-to-be Pope. Very powerful. Beyond that, I'm confused. Who killed the Pope and why? What happened to Immobilare? Why did Michael give up his control over the family? Who tried to kill Micheal and why? Who killed the old men in Sicily? I don't know!!! Maybe I just wasn't in the proper frame of mind for this movie. The only thing I got out of it is that Michael lived to be an old man, and died of natural causes in Sicily. Good for him.
I watched all three Godfather movies this week - two on Saturday and the third Tuesday evening. Obviously, the first Godfather movie is a classic. A great movie. I love its meandering pace, and it's interesting to see the transformation of Micheal from "that's my family, that's not me" into a full fledged gangster.
The second movie is also pretty good, but way too long, in my opinion. The second continues to follow Michael's life as he builds up his wealth with Las Vegal casinos. The movie also flashes back to tell the story of how Vito, the original godfather, ended up in America and how he gained his power. Interesting to know, but not necessary. The movie also takes us to Cuba for a confusing sequence of events. I'm still not sure if Hyman Roth was Michael's friend or enemy, or why there was rioting in Havanna. The powerful ending of the movie had Michael commiting an act that he would regret for the rest of his life.
Godfather Part III is just a confusing mess. This time, we pick up Michael after he's sold all of his casinos and has become a very wealthy man. The movie tries to tell us how Michael is involved with business deals with the Catholic Church. We see that his health if failing a bit, his son has become an opera singer, and his daughter has fallen in love with her cousin. The best scene involved Michael confessing his sins to the soon-to-be Pope. Very powerful. Beyond that, I'm confused. Who killed the Pope and why? What happened to Immobilare? Why did Michael give up his control over the family? Who tried to kill Micheal and why? Who killed the old men in Sicily? I don't know!!! Maybe I just wasn't in the proper frame of mind for this movie. The only thing I got out of it is that Michael lived to be an old man, and died of natural causes in Sicily. Good for him.
ShrarePoint Complete
Sheesh! It's been a long time since my last post. I've been busy working on a consulting engagement for a local Engineering firm. When working on an engagement, I typically don't take time out for blogging. My evenings have been tied up with general life/family events. That's my excuse.
Okay, so back to SharePoint. We've completed our first Proof of Concept project using SharePoint Portal server. It turned out great. I was able to build some custom web parts to take care of the desired functionality that is not natively provided by the product. Writing web parts takes some getting used to, but after building a couple, I found it to be fairly simple. One resource that I used quite often was MSD2D.com. This is a community site with lots of helpful tips published. I've submitted a few tips sharing some techniques that I stumbled across.
The project we did was a small Proof of Concept designed to give the executives of the organization a taste of what could be done with the product. The hope is that once they see the product in action, they will sign off on a large, full implementation of SharePoint to build an entire intranet/portal for the organization.
I am overall pleased with SharePoint. Great product, but not without its faults. SharePoint uses lots of XML and ASPX template files. These files can be changed to customize the look and feel of the portal. Unfortunately, the documentation for this is scarce. In fact, our portal was broken for two weeks while we hunted down one piece of of bad code in an XML file. Live and learn, I suppose.
The web part pages seem to suffer from over-intelligence. The designer at the organization was getting very frustrated because the web part zones would size themselves based on the size of other items in the page. She could not control exactly how the page would look. This is going to come up a lot as designers try to customize their SharePoint pages.
Sheesh! It's been a long time since my last post. I've been busy working on a consulting engagement for a local Engineering firm. When working on an engagement, I typically don't take time out for blogging. My evenings have been tied up with general life/family events. That's my excuse.
Okay, so back to SharePoint. We've completed our first Proof of Concept project using SharePoint Portal server. It turned out great. I was able to build some custom web parts to take care of the desired functionality that is not natively provided by the product. Writing web parts takes some getting used to, but after building a couple, I found it to be fairly simple. One resource that I used quite often was MSD2D.com. This is a community site with lots of helpful tips published. I've submitted a few tips sharing some techniques that I stumbled across.
The project we did was a small Proof of Concept designed to give the executives of the organization a taste of what could be done with the product. The hope is that once they see the product in action, they will sign off on a large, full implementation of SharePoint to build an entire intranet/portal for the organization.
I am overall pleased with SharePoint. Great product, but not without its faults. SharePoint uses lots of XML and ASPX template files. These files can be changed to customize the look and feel of the portal. Unfortunately, the documentation for this is scarce. In fact, our portal was broken for two weeks while we hunted down one piece of of bad code in an XML file. Live and learn, I suppose.
The web part pages seem to suffer from over-intelligence. The designer at the organization was getting very frustrated because the web part zones would size themselves based on the size of other items in the page. She could not control exactly how the page would look. This is going to come up a lot as designers try to customize their SharePoint pages.
Tuesday, October 28, 2003
Home Theater
The home theater is up and running. We've enjoyed it quite a bit. To help break it in, I had several friends over for Game 1 of the World Series. Even though FOX didn't broadcast the games in HiDef, they did broadcast them in widescreen format. Everybody seemed to enjoy the experience.
When the Chiefs played on Monday night (ABC has done a great job of pushing out HiDef content, including MNF), the game was absolutely stunning. The ABC HiDef format just seems to really shine on my home theater projector.
Last night, I watched a little bit of Monsters, Inc. The colors were bright and beautiful. Very enjoyable.
I would say the most stunning experience I've had in my new home theater was watching the new Lion King DVD with its Home Theater Sound Mix. The sound engineers did a great job remixing the soundtrack to match most home theater applications (smaller rooms, etc). I think more DVD's will be doing this in the future. Taking a soundtrack that was engineered for a large theater with lots of people into a small home theater isn't quite the optimum solution. You will find that the studios don't use the rear speakers quite as heavily as you would think. But folks watching at home expect to hear lots of sounds from their rear speakers. The Disney mix did a great job of filling the room with sound without muddying the soundstage. Great use of the rears.
The home theater is up and running. We've enjoyed it quite a bit. To help break it in, I had several friends over for Game 1 of the World Series. Even though FOX didn't broadcast the games in HiDef, they did broadcast them in widescreen format. Everybody seemed to enjoy the experience.
When the Chiefs played on Monday night (ABC has done a great job of pushing out HiDef content, including MNF), the game was absolutely stunning. The ABC HiDef format just seems to really shine on my home theater projector.
Last night, I watched a little bit of Monsters, Inc. The colors were bright and beautiful. Very enjoyable.
I would say the most stunning experience I've had in my new home theater was watching the new Lion King DVD with its Home Theater Sound Mix. The sound engineers did a great job remixing the soundtrack to match most home theater applications (smaller rooms, etc). I think more DVD's will be doing this in the future. Taking a soundtrack that was engineered for a large theater with lots of people into a small home theater isn't quite the optimum solution. You will find that the studios don't use the rear speakers quite as heavily as you would think. But folks watching at home expect to hear lots of sounds from their rear speakers. The Disney mix did a great job of filling the room with sound without muddying the soundstage. Great use of the rears.
SharePoint Again
I've immersed myself in Microsoft's Windows SharePoint Services and SharePoint Portal Server. This is a great product. For my current client, we are building an Intranet Portal system for their employees to have access to all sorts of information. The solution includes document management, security, targeted content, and much more. And, we're building it in 3 weeks.
My company used to butter its bread building intranet solutions from scratch using ASP and SQL Server back ends. A solution like this could easily take 6 months or a year to build. And it wouldn't have the level of functionality or customization that a SharePoint implementation provides.
I think it's a great product. However, it is not without its faults. Some things that seem like they should be so easy to do are not. For example, if a company has an external timecard application, it should be able to notify users in SharePoint that they need to approve a timecard. So far, I have not found an easy way for this to happen. I have tried to set up a custom list for all of these notifications, and then each user must then subscribe to receive alerts from this list. That works, but it isn't quite as functional as we would like.
I was hoping the Alerts OM would expose a method to allow external apps to create new alerts targeted to specific users. I haven't found that yet.
I've immersed myself in Microsoft's Windows SharePoint Services and SharePoint Portal Server. This is a great product. For my current client, we are building an Intranet Portal system for their employees to have access to all sorts of information. The solution includes document management, security, targeted content, and much more. And, we're building it in 3 weeks.
My company used to butter its bread building intranet solutions from scratch using ASP and SQL Server back ends. A solution like this could easily take 6 months or a year to build. And it wouldn't have the level of functionality or customization that a SharePoint implementation provides.
I think it's a great product. However, it is not without its faults. Some things that seem like they should be so easy to do are not. For example, if a company has an external timecard application, it should be able to notify users in SharePoint that they need to approve a timecard. So far, I have not found an easy way for this to happen. I have tried to set up a custom list for all of these notifications, and then each user must then subscribe to receive alerts from this list. That works, but it isn't quite as functional as we would like.
I was hoping the Alerts OM would expose a method to allow external apps to create new alerts targeted to specific users. I haven't found that yet.
Catching up
It's been a while since I blogged. First: the World Series. Unfortunately, I missed game 6. It sounds like Beckett pitched a fabulous game. It will be interesting to see what happens to the Yankees this off season. I have a feeling Brian Cashman's powers are going to be greatly diminished. How much more money will George sink into the payroll in attempt to buy the championship next year?
It's been a while since I blogged. First: the World Series. Unfortunately, I missed game 6. It sounds like Beckett pitched a fabulous game. It will be interesting to see what happens to the Yankees this off season. I have a feeling Brian Cashman's powers are going to be greatly diminished. How much more money will George sink into the payroll in attempt to buy the championship next year?
Friday, October 17, 2003
World Series
I wonder how many folks were actually rooting for a Marlins/Yankees world series. This is pathetic. Considering I had just finished a beautiful theater room in which I could enjoy the World Series in 92" glory, the games I have to watch now are pathetic.
Perhaps next year, the Royals will be Marlins of the league (just as the Marlins this year were the Angels of last year).
I wonder how many folks were actually rooting for a Marlins/Yankees world series. This is pathetic. Considering I had just finished a beautiful theater room in which I could enjoy the World Series in 92" glory, the games I have to watch now are pathetic.
Perhaps next year, the Royals will be Marlins of the league (just as the Marlins this year were the Angels of last year).
SharePoint
I've been working recently on a SharePoint Portal Server 2003 implementation. Frankly, it's frustrating. Even though the product is officially "released" (at least to Partners, who are now implementing it), there is absolutely no useful documentation on it.
I'm trying to accomplish some fairly simple functionality, and I am just spinning my wheels. The SDK is incomplete. The object model is documented, as far as what objects exist, there is no useful information on how to use the OM. I suppose this is what it's like to be one of the first to do real projects using a brand new product.
I've been working recently on a SharePoint Portal Server 2003 implementation. Frankly, it's frustrating. Even though the product is officially "released" (at least to Partners, who are now implementing it), there is absolutely no useful documentation on it.
I'm trying to accomplish some fairly simple functionality, and I am just spinning my wheels. The SDK is incomplete. The object model is documented, as far as what objects exist, there is no useful information on how to use the OM. I suppose this is what it's like to be one of the first to do real projects using a brand new product.
Tuesday, October 07, 2003
World Series
I'm pulling for a Cubs/Red Sox World Series. I think any "true" baseball fan is pulling for this match up. Mainly because it is an unlikely match up between two teams who have had poor post season luck for nearly a century. Unfortunately for Red Sox fans, I would be pulling for the Cubs in that World Series. The Cubs are a likeable team. They have a good mixture of veterans and young guys. The Red Sox, on the other hand... I don't know. The only word that seems to come to mind is... thugs.
While I don't think the Cubs will have too much trouble with the Marlins, it will be a different story for the Red Sox. I see the Yankees and Cubs in the WS with the Yankees winning it in seven.
I'm pulling for a Cubs/Red Sox World Series. I think any "true" baseball fan is pulling for this match up. Mainly because it is an unlikely match up between two teams who have had poor post season luck for nearly a century. Unfortunately for Red Sox fans, I would be pulling for the Cubs in that World Series. The Cubs are a likeable team. They have a good mixture of veterans and young guys. The Red Sox, on the other hand... I don't know. The only word that seems to come to mind is... thugs.
While I don't think the Cubs will have too much trouble with the Marlins, it will be a different story for the Red Sox. I see the Yankees and Cubs in the WS with the Yankees winning it in seven.
Though they haven't arrived yet, the carpet layers are due today. Tomorrow, loose ends will be tied up and then it's party time!
I purchased a new receiver, the NAD T752. I haven't hooked it up yet. I think it's going to be a good receiver for me.
After the carpet is down, I will set up the receiver and speakers and try it out. On Friday, my home theater dealer is going to come by and calibrate and optimize the system. And he's going to do it at no charge! Then on Sunday, we will have a house full of family to watch some football. We're really looking forward getting the system up and running.
Speak of the devil. Carpet layers just arrived!
I purchased a new receiver, the NAD T752. I haven't hooked it up yet. I think it's going to be a good receiver for me.
After the carpet is down, I will set up the receiver and speakers and try it out. On Friday, my home theater dealer is going to come by and calibrate and optimize the system. And he's going to do it at no charge! Then on Sunday, we will have a house full of family to watch some football. We're really looking forward getting the system up and running.
Speak of the devil. Carpet layers just arrived!
Monday, October 06, 2003
Basement almost complete
Last Friday, the tile guys laid tile in the bathroom and tiled the shower. On Saturday, the electrician came and installed the light fixtures and finished the outlets and switches.
Today, the plumbers were at the house to finish the plumbing. They installed the toilet, and finished the shower. They also installed the sink in the bar. They couldn't quite finish, though because we don't have the vanity top/sink for the bathroom. I'm not sure what went wrong there - perhaps it was assumed the plumbers would bring it, I don't know. At any rate, they will need to come back to install the bathroom faucet when the sink gets installed.
We are scheduled to be completely done on Wednesday of this week. The carpet is coming tomorrow, and the final hardware (door knobs, etc) will be installed on Wednesday.
Over the weekend, I installed the screen and projector and I hung the back surround speakers. Things are really starting to come together.
Last Friday, the tile guys laid tile in the bathroom and tiled the shower. On Saturday, the electrician came and installed the light fixtures and finished the outlets and switches.
Today, the plumbers were at the house to finish the plumbing. They installed the toilet, and finished the shower. They also installed the sink in the bar. They couldn't quite finish, though because we don't have the vanity top/sink for the bathroom. I'm not sure what went wrong there - perhaps it was assumed the plumbers would bring it, I don't know. At any rate, they will need to come back to install the bathroom faucet when the sink gets installed.
We are scheduled to be completely done on Wednesday of this week. The carpet is coming tomorrow, and the final hardware (door knobs, etc) will be installed on Wednesday.
Over the weekend, I installed the screen and projector and I hung the back surround speakers. Things are really starting to come together.
Bunch 'o Long Hairs
Last week, I had decided that I would blog about the Boston Red Sox. Of course, this blog no longer applies, but I'm going to blog on it anyway.
The Boston Red Sox look like a bunch of losers. I've never seen one collection of guys who, almost to a man, look so sloppy. Every one of them has long hair and some kind of facial hair. Why is that? Why would one team have so many players who look like slobs.
Being a Royals fan, I have always been partial to Johnny Damon. I think Johnny's an above-average player with good speed and enough patience to be a good lead off hitter. Since he decided to grow his hair out, I no longer like him. He looks like he should be living in the woods scaring campers. And the rest of the team looks like a bunch of hairy losers.
Of course, just as I was going to write this, several players decided to change their luck by getting haircuts. Think about it - with long hair, they were down 2 games to none. Since they've cut their hair, they've won two straight and go for the series victory tonight. I guess there is something to be said for presenting a good appearance.
Last week, I had decided that I would blog about the Boston Red Sox. Of course, this blog no longer applies, but I'm going to blog on it anyway.
The Boston Red Sox look like a bunch of losers. I've never seen one collection of guys who, almost to a man, look so sloppy. Every one of them has long hair and some kind of facial hair. Why is that? Why would one team have so many players who look like slobs.
Being a Royals fan, I have always been partial to Johnny Damon. I think Johnny's an above-average player with good speed and enough patience to be a good lead off hitter. Since he decided to grow his hair out, I no longer like him. He looks like he should be living in the woods scaring campers. And the rest of the team looks like a bunch of hairy losers.
Of course, just as I was going to write this, several players decided to change their luck by getting haircuts. Think about it - with long hair, they were down 2 games to none. Since they've cut their hair, they've won two straight and go for the series victory tonight. I guess there is something to be said for presenting a good appearance.
Thursday, October 02, 2003
Rush to judgement
ESPN hired Rush Limbaugh to add a bit of spice to their Sunday morning NFL pregame show. Rush has long been an avid NFL fan, and being an opinionated person by nature, did contribute interesting commentary to the show.
Recently, Rush found some trouble after he made a comment on the show about Donovan McNabb, the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. Rush's point was that McNabb is not quite as talented as we are led to believe. Unfortunately, Rush decided to bring race into the picture. His comment eluded to the perception that the media is propping McNabb up because he is black. While I agree with Rush that McNabb's talent is overrated, I'm do not think it has anything to do with race. McNabb plays football in a large media market on the east coast. His football team has been successful the last couple of years. The quarterback is always the focal point for any successful football team. I believe the Eagles' success has been a result of a fantastic defense in tandem with a sufficient offense. McNabb is a good enough quarterback that he won't throw the game away, but I'm not convinced he is an impact player like Michael Vick.
I believe Rush is a victim of the media looking for somebody to attack. Rush has made enough enemies over the years that there are lots of folks looking to tear him down. Nobody even noticed the comments until a full three days after they were made. Is what Rush said right? No, of course not. The media isn't propping up a player because of his race. The media is propping up McNabb because he is the quarterback of a successful team in a large market. Did Rush's comments warrant his resignation? No. What he said was stupid. But that's what he was paid to do: to provoke discussion on the show. I believe Rush would still have his job today had the other cast members successfully argued against Rush on the show. Instead, they didn't seem to put up much fight, and his comments stood on their own. Then, a couple of days later, the media found something they could latch onto to attack Rush. The machine was set in motion, and Rush is now gone from the show.
I've listened to Rush for years on his radio show. I'm somewhat conservative, so I tend to agree with Rush's comments. I don't agree with his comment regarding McNabb, but I don't believe he should have lost his job over it. Why can't different opinions be discussed and differing points argued?
ESPN hired Rush Limbaugh to add a bit of spice to their Sunday morning NFL pregame show. Rush has long been an avid NFL fan, and being an opinionated person by nature, did contribute interesting commentary to the show.
Recently, Rush found some trouble after he made a comment on the show about Donovan McNabb, the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. Rush's point was that McNabb is not quite as talented as we are led to believe. Unfortunately, Rush decided to bring race into the picture. His comment eluded to the perception that the media is propping McNabb up because he is black. While I agree with Rush that McNabb's talent is overrated, I'm do not think it has anything to do with race. McNabb plays football in a large media market on the east coast. His football team has been successful the last couple of years. The quarterback is always the focal point for any successful football team. I believe the Eagles' success has been a result of a fantastic defense in tandem with a sufficient offense. McNabb is a good enough quarterback that he won't throw the game away, but I'm not convinced he is an impact player like Michael Vick.
I believe Rush is a victim of the media looking for somebody to attack. Rush has made enough enemies over the years that there are lots of folks looking to tear him down. Nobody even noticed the comments until a full three days after they were made. Is what Rush said right? No, of course not. The media isn't propping up a player because of his race. The media is propping up McNabb because he is the quarterback of a successful team in a large market. Did Rush's comments warrant his resignation? No. What he said was stupid. But that's what he was paid to do: to provoke discussion on the show. I believe Rush would still have his job today had the other cast members successfully argued against Rush on the show. Instead, they didn't seem to put up much fight, and his comments stood on their own. Then, a couple of days later, the media found something they could latch onto to attack Rush. The machine was set in motion, and Rush is now gone from the show.
I've listened to Rush for years on his radio show. I'm somewhat conservative, so I tend to agree with Rush's comments. I don't agree with his comment regarding McNabb, but I don't believe he should have lost his job over it. Why can't different opinions be discussed and differing points argued?
I recently decided that I do not want to tear apart my existing home theater system for the basement theater. Because of that, I will be purchasing a new receiver for the basement theater. The model I've decided on is the NAD T752. This receiver's stats are not as mind-blowing as other models out there, but just like my projector choice, I'm not looking at raw stats to decide. I'm trying the models out and purchasing the one that gives me what I need for the price I desire. The projector I bought (the Plus Piano Avanti) is not very popular among the so-called experts. These folks talk about how it's brightness is only 450 Lumens, or the contrast ratio is to low. Well, I've seen the projector next to a much more expensive projector with fat stats. I didn't see much of a difference. For my money, I'll take the $3,000 project that does all I need over the $6,000 projector that does all I need.
At any rate, the NAD receiver produces a nice sound and is plenty powerful for my room. I'm looking forward to getting it hooked up to my Wharfedales.
At any rate, the NAD receiver produces a nice sound and is plenty powerful for my room. I'm looking forward to getting it hooked up to my Wharfedales.
We are getting so close now, we can almost taste it. The painters did come on Monday and painted the walls. The colors look great. In the theater, we picked a darker color for the wall where the screen is mounted. It looks great.
On Tuesday, the tile guy game to lay tile. Unfortunately, it was raining, so the tile got wet on the way to the house, so he said that he needed to let the tile dry out before laying it. I think it was a cop out, but that's just me. Anyway, he dropped the tile off and left. Tuesday evening, I mounted the frame for the screen on the wall.
On Wednesday, the tile guys came and laid the tile around the bar. They also put some floor leveler in the bathroom, and then left. I'm hoping they will be back today to finish the job. They still need to put the tile on the bathroom floor, tile the shower, and then grout all of the tile.
As for the rest of the work, I think we will be finished sometime around next Tuesday. The electricians are coming Saturday to install light fixtures and finish their work. The plumbers are scheduled to come next Monday to install the sinks, shower and toilet. On next Tuesday, the carpet is scheduled to be laid. That should finish it up! The furniture is scheduled to be delivered on Thursday of next week, and we are planning on having a bunch of people over next Sunday to watch football.
On Tuesday, the tile guy game to lay tile. Unfortunately, it was raining, so the tile got wet on the way to the house, so he said that he needed to let the tile dry out before laying it. I think it was a cop out, but that's just me. Anyway, he dropped the tile off and left. Tuesday evening, I mounted the frame for the screen on the wall.
On Wednesday, the tile guys came and laid the tile around the bar. They also put some floor leveler in the bathroom, and then left. I'm hoping they will be back today to finish the job. They still need to put the tile on the bathroom floor, tile the shower, and then grout all of the tile.
As for the rest of the work, I think we will be finished sometime around next Tuesday. The electricians are coming Saturday to install light fixtures and finish their work. The plumbers are scheduled to come next Monday to install the sinks, shower and toilet. On next Tuesday, the carpet is scheduled to be laid. That should finish it up! The furniture is scheduled to be delivered on Thursday of next week, and we are planning on having a bunch of people over next Sunday to watch football.
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