Okay, it is about time that I put something on this blog before they take it down. In fact we had a milestone this summer. We had our 10,000th hit. Whooo hoo. 10 grand. Sweet. Enjoy it TT Nation, you deserve it.
In the ongoing saga that is the TundraTalk Entourage I am here today to announce the second to last member. The man who missed me soooo much when I moved away from Edmonton he followed me to Regina. The man who is by far the finest journalist I have ever worked with, mainly because he put up with me. The man who is a fan of the worst hockey team in the NHL, the Detroit Red Wings. The man who forgot to put 25 bucks down on the Packers for me last week in Vegas. Wait, there are a few negatives in there, maybe I should reconsider. Nah, he's alright. Trevor Doroshenko, the Ukranian Nightmare.
I first met Trev when I moved to Edmonton in the year 2000. He worked as a reporter for that, ahem, fine news organization A-Channel Television. He, along with me, was a huge fan of the ND there, Chris Duncan. We both took great pleasure in getting him to turn red. CD, as has been chronicled in TT before, turned beet red when he got angry. Huge A-hole. CD, not Trev. If I was having a shitty day at the A, which was most days, and Trev got in the vehicle we would just drop in Tenacious D F##k Her Gently and all would be good. Trev also knows a good thing when he sees it. He is one of the many converts to Dakota Kid sunflower seeds here in Canada. Every, and I mean EVERY, person who has tried them, will not go back to that bag of crap Spitz. Trust me, I won't.
The day after 911 we spent the day in some godforsaken town, covering some lame ass story that CD thought up, in Alberta listening to Green Bay Packer songs. It was nice to get out of the newsroom and get away from the media frenzy that was the day after 911.
Trev also was my partner in crime with the OCAFW. The One Check Away From Welfare golf tournament for the Edmonton Food Bank. For 6 years we put on the BEST golf tourney in the upper, lower, eastern, west Edmonton area. He also was there on the day that I got my Canadian Citizenship. He took pictures as you can see from the picture below that is Trev with the camera.
Where do I think Trev will fit in in this Posse? Well, let me tell you before he does. He will be one of those guys who will be there thru thick and thin. Hell, he moved to Regina after me because he missed me so much. That is loyalty. He will be the one in the back with the smart ass remark after every brilliant thing I say. He will more than likely get a long with Marty very well and those two together will be deadly. Trev, why don't you just let the rest of know what you think.
Well, two thoughts...
Firstly, I'm suspicious of any club that would have me as a member. And secondly...I'm surprised this even happened...as I was first interviewed for this gig over two years ago. Christ, pyramids have crumbled in less time.
Admittedly, I will bring nothing to the table as part of this entourage. The lone exception may be that I live in the same town as Peterson, so I can call him on his shit a little more often than the rest of you guys. Aside from that, consider me Turtle.
Thanks Chris,
Trev..
So if you are turtle that means you are driving. Good. I hope to have our final member announced in the next few days. I know, it has taken for ever to get this far, but good things come to those who wait.
I promise to be more attentive to TT this fall. Promise.
I gots two things for ya today. First my picks for the second round of the NHL playoffs. As you probably already know, or have already called me an idiot for, my picks for the first round were a bit off. I picked the Avs to beat the Sharks. Which I was looking pretty good for a while but that young team just could not handle the pressure. I also picked the Kings, which also looked good for a while, no go for the same reason. A person can only pick so many upsets in one round and I just went too overboard on the upsets. Montreal also rose up and beat back Ovectchkin and the Caps. Who saw that coming? NOvetchkin was non existent. Jerk. Oh and then there was the Sabres. Dammit.
Oh well, a person has to move on and not dwell on their mistakes. I won't so here are my picks for the second round....
WESTERN CONFERENCE
San Jose Sharks (1) vs. Detroit Red Wings (6)
Again, I am put in this dilemma. Stupid southern team versus the Godless Red Wings. I made a deal with the devil in the first round, but I cannot do it again. Screw Trev, Preacherman and the Red Wings. I hope for a lot of injuries and embarrassment in this series. I know that if the Sharks get past the Wings in this round they have NO chance in the final. None. Sharks in 7.
Chicago Blackhawks (2) vs. Vancouver Canucks (3) Vancouver fans are some of the most arrogant fans around. Arrogant for fans who have never won ANYTHING. They live out on the stupid west coast with their inflated rents and stupid sushi on every corner. Tofu lovin, birkenstock wearing, flannel flying, my apartment is no bigger than your bathroom but costs me 3000 bucks a month, be in debt for the olympics for ever, green suit wearing jagoffs. Hate those guys. The Vancouver Canucks remind me of a soccer team. Lots of europeans, lots of whining and diving, and rarely, if EVER, scoring. A good reason for a nap. BORING.
The only problem is that Donny Granato thinks that the Hawks do not have the depth in goaltending to go the distance. They definitely have the scoring power they just need their goalie to steal a few games for them. Whoever that is on this night. I mean really, Luongo is not the answer either. Gotta go with the Hawks on this one. Blackhawks in 6.
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Pittsburgh Penguins(4) vs. Montreal Canadiens (8)
Sid the kid versus the Montreal Soccer team. Montreal fans are a lot like Canuck fans, except their team has actually won something. Just not in this century. I will give Halak his due. He played great. It is just that they started comparing the kid to Patty Roy. That will be his downfall. Being compared to the greatest goaler of all time is just too much to handle, especially in Montreal. Those fans are CRAZY. The Penguins have been there before and know how to win.Pittsburgh in 5.
Boston Bruins (6) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (7)
I picked the Bullies in the first round because I just had a feeling. That, like the gas I got from eating bratwurst last night, has passed. I love Ian Laperriere and how he plays the game but I hate Chris Pronger more. Screw Chris Pronger.Boston in 7. There you have it. I promise to be better in the second round. But, again, if you wager on what I have picked here. It is on you to listen to a blowhard like me.
NEXT: As you all know there is no love lost with some of the News Directors that I have served under in my career. I have found that to be a ND most of the time they are souless, heartless, SOB's that care about nothing but being a bully and stroking their own ego. They are kind of like mall cops, except with less power.
Case and point, Chris Duncan. News Director during my stint at the A Channel in Edmonton. Man that guy, in my humble opinion, sucked. His trademark was to call you into his office by saying to you - "Hey Trev, got a sec?" As if you are going to say no. You knew that if you heard that in your day time routine your day would suck.
Another great thing about this genius was that when he got mad he turned beet red. Loved making this guy turn red. Saw it several times. Actually saw it a lot during the strike. Whenever we got over on him and his band of scabs and goons he turned red. The best time I saw the red was my last day.
Long story even longer, I gave my two weeks. He was on vacation for the first week of that two weeks. On the Monday that he came back I suspected that he would have me work the day out and then, in his typical dick move, he would send me home for the rest of the week. He was so predictable. I was ready for it so I had already taken all my stuff home earlier in the day so as to avoid the whole 'shit in a box walk of shame' routine that he liked to do. I was off around 5ish and as it was in Edmonton if you did not leave the downtown before 4pm, you did not get home until 6. We got to drive our company rigs home so I headed for the barn. Around 4:50 or so as I was rounding the back stretch to my house the radio goes off.
Greg Donnelly, the AE, was calling me back to the station. I explained that it would take me around 45 minutes to get back into the downtown core and it would cost overtime and could it wait until tomorrow. All the while knowing what was happening. Greg explained that CD wanted to talk to me. I again explained how far away I was and how long it would take. CD got on the radio and explained to me that "I am still your boss so come back to the station." I knew that the red headed volcano was about to erupt.
I drove back and was met in the news room by CD's flunkie John Cuccaro (pictured on the left being annoyed by me and my bullhorn). I asked for a Union rep and they complained but complied because that is part of why we went on strike. Plus I just wanted someone else to be there when the red headed moron blew. I went in to his office and he began to reprimand me for arguing with John last week. I told him I did not argue with John, he argued with me. It was over a photo radar ticket that I had gotten a while back that I was going to fight and get reduced. Their thinking was that I was just going to quit and not pay the ticket so they wanted to take it out of my check. I told them no that I was going to fight it. They said why? I said because I do not trust them. BLAMMO, mount dickhead just turned red. It was awesome. He then informed me that I would be relieved of duty. I said "Great! I can start my new job a week early and get paid by two companies." He did not like that either.
CD then informed me that I would not be riding in any news vehicles home tonight. Uh, no duh, dipshit. I informed him that I would not be riding in any company vehicles. He then put his hands on his desk and got real red, like Ferrari red, and yelled that I would not be getting a ride from any news guys home and in fact that they had booked me a cab. I again, calmly with a big smile informed him that I would not be getting a ride home from any company employees that my wife was on her way to pick me up. That pissed him off even more. He told his puppy dog Cuccaro to escort me out of the building and that was it.
By the way, I went in to fight the ticket a few months later, because I am a man of my word and when I say I am going to do something, I do it, and the ticket was paid. The day after I was asked to leave the station. Losers.
Good story but not the best "I quit" story from the A. Drew B is legend for how he quit the station. He put a yellow post it note on CD's door. That is epic.
Anyway, the reason I brought all this up, is Mr. Duncan left what was the A Channel and is now CityTV. Below is the email that was sent out announcing the fact. I will of course provide commentary on the email. Enjoy... TO ALL STAFF
I am writing today to announce the departure of Chris Duncan from his position as Manager, Local Content Group for Citytv Calgary.By departure what I hear is he is being forced out.
After nearly 13 years with our Alberta stations, Chris has decided to move on and pursue some new opportunities. Uh, yeah, get out.
Chris joined our Edmonton station during our "start-up" phase in 1997 , an experience that could only be described as trying to take a sip of water from a fire hose!Sip of water from a firehose?
Under Chris' leadership the Edmonton newsroom and local programming department was born and proceeded to crank out 31.5 hours per week of local shows over the next 12 years highlighted by three consecutive AMPIA's for Best Newscast from 2000-2003.Leadership? Yeah 31.5 hours that was knocked down to about half that after the CRTC licence probation time was over. Oh and the AMPIA's stopped the minute we went on strike.Speaking of that strike...that was the strike that basically was the death blow to this station. Oh, and did I mention that YOU AND YOUR ARROGANCE, Chris Duncan, were the basic reason the Union was brought to A Channel. Remember the shooter fridge that you banished from the building. The next day someone contacted the Union.
Within 6 months we had a date set to sign cards. The week before we signed cards you fired one of the most popular employees to 'send a message' (allegedly) and that really drove people to the union. Had you not fired Randy we probably would not have gotten enough people to sign. Randy then sued your ass and won forcing you to offer him his job back. To which he told you guys to F -off. We then went on strike for 166 days, crippled your advertising, cut your ratings down to nothing, put a black eye on A Channel in the community, and then ultimately to it's sale. Nice job Chris. You and your management drove a stake through what was a pretty good newsroom and split it down the middle. I thought most of us in the newsroom wanted to work together and put on a good product. Helluva a job Brownie errrrrr, I mean Duncan.
In 2006 Chris made the move to Calgary to lead our re-vamped local Content group with his usual skill and dogged determination. We moved him to Calgary because the newsroom in Edmonton was poisoned and he was the main reason for that poison.Half the people did not trust you and the other half put up with you, but still did not trust you.
On behalf of all of us at Rogers Broadcasting Limited, I would like to thank Chris for his commitment and hard work for our organization. Good bye and good luck ruining another newsroom.
Please join me in wishing Chris well in his future.No thanks. I prefer to tell him to GET BENT.
Chris' last day with the Company is this Friday, April 30th.May first is the first day the company and all it's employees can actually take a deep breath and move on.
I have a million CD is an ass stories but I need to get to sleep. Maybe some other time. Good riddance CD. Wish I had never met you.
That is all I have for your Friday.... GET BACK TO WORK.
It is that time of year again. The time of year when multi-millionaires skate around on artificial ice and wow us with their skill of pushing a circular vulcanized rubber object into a net. Yup I am geeked. It is also the time of year when I put on my prediction cap and let all of you know just who is gonna win this dog and pony show. Time for you to call your bookie and make yourself some mortgage money.
Oh, how can I forget, it is also my favorite time of the hockey season when Gary Bettman gets his ass booed at centre ice. I absolutely love that. I also get to root against satans team, the Detroit Red Wings. I hear that Brent Favre is considering a playoff run with them this year. Only appropriate, the biggest douchebag on the planet playing for Douchebagtown USA.
This years playoffs are a bit more interesting. There are 4 new teams in it this year. The Godless Flames are not there, NICE. The Oil are not also. The Kings, Coyotes, Avs, and Sabres are in this year. As you all know, I only missed one series last year in the first round, and the year before I got them all right. How am I gonna do this year? Only time will tell. I do know that former Gambler and always Stanley Cup runner up, Ty Conklin is not in the playoffs this year so I will not have to deal with that mojo. Former Gambler Matt Greene is though so I do have to deal with that. Okay, lets get this party started...
WESTERN CONFERENCE San Jose Sharks (1) vs Colorado Avalanche (8)
Here is the deal, I love the Avs. I am down with them forever. The Sharks are perennial regular season juggernauts and post season choke jobs. My homeboy, TONY FREAKING GRANATO was the coach of the Avs last year. I am not really happy with how they did him when they let him go. Tony is now working with the current Stanley Cup Champions the Pittsburgh Penguins. Tony laces them up with Sidney Crosby every day. Not a bad fall back. Think about that. Tony has played with the Great One, Coached Burnaby Joe Sakic, and is now working with Sid the Kid. Awesome. Normally I would express some anger with the Avalanche and how they fired Tony, but since Tony is doing alright and the team had a great year, I will be the typical fan and let it slide. With that said, I will take the upset, Avalanche in 6. Chicago Blackhawks (2) vs Nashville Predators (7)
It is so good to see the Blackhawks back in form. I love to hear the noise in their barn in the playoffs. The National Anthem is an amazing spectacle at the United Centre. Of course if you listen to the Podcast that does not suck, TundraTalk, you would know that. Don Granato and Tony Granato have detailed that extensively. I spoke to Don recently and he gave me his assessment of the Hawks playoffs. He says that they are not deep enough in goal to win it all but will have some success in the early rounds because of their depth elsewhere. There you have it.
The Hawks have the Nash Vegas Predators. I guess I really did not know that they still played hockey in Nash Vegas. We all know that they should not still be there, so screw 'em. Never root for a southern based team. Gary Bettman can go get bent. Blackhawks in 5.
Vancouver Canucks (3) vs Los Angeles Kings (6)
Now here is where I contradict my self and become the ultimate hypocrite. I just got done saying that we never root for a southern team. Just to spite Bettman. He is a tool. I guess LA would be the exception to the rule. The only exception. After all Marcel Dionne played for LA. Wayne Gretzky played for LA. TONY FREAKING GRANATO played for LA. I saw my first NHL game at the Forum back in 1981. That's right, I said it, the Forum. Back when they still had those goofy purple and yellow jerseys. Check the price and the location of the seats. No way you get into Staples for 14 dollars now.
Now here is a tough one. The Phoenix Coyotes are the example for the rule as to why NOT to root for southern teams. Bettman has a guy, the owner of the Blackberry empire, who wants to buy the team. Wants to give him more than what it is worth, but wants to move it to Winnipeg or Hamilton. Bettman gives a lame ass speech that he does not run out on the fans of NHL teams. FU bettman, you run THIS F'N TEAM out on the fans of WINNIPEG. I hate Bettman. I also hate Detroit. Detroit sucks balls. Their goaltending is suspect and they wear those stupid red jerseys. They will however get past the flash in the pan Phoenix Coyotes. Preacherman and Doroshenko get their way. Again like last year, I hate myself, Detroit in 5.
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Washington Capitals (1) vs Montreal Canadiens (8)
Alexander the great versus Montreal. Hmmm this is tough. Caps in 4.
New Jersey (2) vs Philadelphia Flyers (7)
Not a big fan of the Devils and Martin Brodeur. I am still pissed that he did not continue in net for Canada at the olympics. He really should have been the guy for Canada. This series presents some difficulties also. For the Flyers everyone's favorite dirty player, Chris Pronger, is playing. Not a fan. But Ian Laperierre is also playing for the Flyers, he is cool. Former Av and a guy who used to bust my balls back in Edmonton every time they came through. This one is gonna be a barnburner. I like Philly in 7.
Buffalo Sabres (3) vs Boston Bruins (6)
Randy Hawke, of the Madison Hawkes, is a HUGE Sabre fan. HUGE. They have been playing well of late and the Bruins had to fight just to get in the playoffs, so I am going to take the Sabres in 7. You are welcome Hawke.
Pittsburgh Penguins (4) vs Ottawa Senators (5)
This one is easy. Ottawa just has not gotten over the Ty Conklin jinx of a few years back. They have had one problem after another. The Penguins have not been playing well down the stretch, BUT Sid the Kid is coming off his Golden Goal from the Olympics (dick) and he always seems to step it up when he needs to. Preacherman has a man crush on this guy. I will take the Penguins in 5.
There you have it, my predictions on the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. Take it to the bank. But as you know, any losses you have based on my predictions are all on you. I take no responsibility on your lack of picking prowess. If you lose, YOU LOSE. Not me.
Now, have a great day and GET BACK TO WORK
Preacherman sent his picks in and as usual they are wrong...
Western
Sharks vs. Avs Avs in 6, are you kidding me!??!?! With players like Marleau, Ortmeyer, Thorton, and Blake the Sharks won’t have much problem with the sucky Avs. Oh yeah, I forgot one thing, Joe Pavelski. He is the best player I’ve seen come through the USHL and he should have won the Hobey Baker when he was at UW. When it is all said and done, Pavelski will be the greatest power forward ever to play the game. Sharks in 5.
Blackhawks vs. Predlies I agree. It is great to see the Blackhawks doing good again. I have been to the United CentER and heard the National Anthem, very cool. I can only imagine what it’s like during the playoffs. The Blackhawks have way too much talent for Nashville to handle. Mr. Everything, Jonathan Toews, will have an unforgettable playoffs. Blackhawks in 4.
Vancooter vs. LA Not really sold on either of these teams. I guess I’m leaning towards Vancooter because of the Sedin sisters and Yan Stastny. Vancooter in 6.
Phoenix vs Detroit. How the hell can you play hockey in a desert!?!? Even though my Wings aren’t too good this year … 16 games until my Redwings win the Stanley Cup! Eastern
Washington vs Canadians They just might call this one after three games. Washington is WAY too much for the Habs to handle.
Devils vs Flyers I am a Brodeur fan and he should have been in net for Team Canada. This is going to be a chippy, dirty series. I hate the Flyers and Bob Clarke. Flyers are just talentless punks. Devils in 5. SabERS vs Bruins I haven’t seen much of either of these teams this year. But I know if Tim Thomas was in net for the Olympics, USA would have won the gold. But still have a bad taste in my mouth with the Bruins because of the traitor Phil Kessel. Once again Sabers in 6 just for you Hawke.
Pittsburgh vs Oh Ottawa This is one awesome series!!! Where do I begin? Is there anything Crosby can’t do??? Youngest to ever wear the C and hoist the Cup. He is the closest to perfection we’ll ever see. Malkin will lead the playoffs in goals. But it won’t be that easy, Pittsburgh is going to run into a roadblock named Chris Phillips, Anton Volchenkov, and Brian Elliot. Spezza will be great like always. Game on!!! Pittsburgh in 7
Yes, it is hard to be humble. I called it. I told you what would happen, and it happened. Some might call that having ESP, most TV networks might call me up and base a prime time show on me. I just am that good.
The Stanley Cup went to the Pittsburgh Penguins in seven games. If you would like to confirm that I was right, just click here. It was a great final game that was a nail biter from end to end. I am usually very critical of Detroit fans because they hardly ever get to the game on time, or back to their seats for the beginning of the period but I will give them credit for staying through the trophy ceremony and actually clapping for the Penguins. I will also give them credit for booing the shit out of Bettman. I love that. It happens every year and it is worth the wait every year. Bettman is a tool.
I want Ty Conklin's name on the cup really bad, but he just was on the wrong team. If you look at recent history, he has been on the wrong team of late. He was in Edmonton when they lost in seven games to the Carolina Hurricanes. He was also in Ottowa when they lost the cup. He was on the Pittsburgh Penguins last year when they lost to the Wings. I think it is safe to say at this point that if Ty is on your team you will get to the final but winning it is probably not in the cards. In the USHL Ty won back to back championships for the Green Bay Gamblers so he is not a jinx by any means but he did lose the NCAA Frozen Four with the New Hampshire Bears and the Calder Cup (game 7) with the Hamilton Bulldogs. Not sure what to do with all that math.
Let me tell you a story. There is a guy I know named Preacherman. He is a guy from Pulaski Wisconsin. He likes hockey. He also likes the Godless Detroit Red Wings. As he has always done, he will call me or text me after the Red Wings win against the Avs. During this final he took time out of his 'busy' schedule to text me immediately after EVERY game in this series. Of course these texts were not of a complimentary nature. Most of them were very braggadocio. Nice word huh? Yeah, I am kind of a big deal. Anyway, he would most of the time tell me how many games the Red Wings had won. I would always tell him that it takes 4 to win the Cup. He was counting his chickens so to say, which we all know, especially in hockey, a person should not do.
Well, Preacherman has something to say to all of you out there in TundraTalk Nation...
Dear TundraTalk Nation,
I still sit here brokenhearted. When parents say they love their kids equally in their own way, THEY ARE LYING! Every parent has their fav kid. My favorite "kid", the Detroit Red Wings, decided only to show up to a couple of the the Stanley Cup finals games. And it showed by bowing out to my other kid, Sid the kid, and the Pittsburgh Penguins in seven games (as Sign Boy perdicted once again). Chris is getting almost as good with his picks as the stinking genious Arnie Spanier.
As I sat there watching game seven in my Joey Kocur sweater (and Crosby sweatsuit underneath) I realized how much they need Darren McCarty and Chelli out there. The Wings were trying to be too pretty, they need to play that tough game that brought them the past 4 cups. They don't have the skill that they had in '02 (thank God for Brett Hull!) They got ran over, out played, out everything by the Pens. And it does seem like Ty Conkiln is a Stanley Cup curse, even though it pains me to say that. My heart did stop for a little while when Sidney got hurt, but it's all good now.
Mario finally passed the torch to Sid, it's now his league. It was awesome seeing Mario with the cup again. PLEASE Mario, just one more shift. You, Sid, and Malkin.
Preacherman
Well Preacherman, it takes a strong man to admit he was wrong, and boy you were wrong, so I congratulate you on your admitting wrongness. You root for a crappy hockey team and you are not ashamed to admit it. If only you could be as bold about your Lions. Man they suck.
I would like to also at this point say I offered space to Trev Doroshenko to apologize to you, but he would not. He has too much pride (ego) to admit when he is wrong. Oh and he IS WRONG. NEXT: I had the opportunity to conduct my interview with OG Posse Member Chad Weiser, of the Seattle Weisers, this week. Chad took time out of his 'big city' schedule to make his case for being part of the most elite posse this side of the Mississippi. We are on this side of the Mississippi aren't we?
Anyway, Chad (that is him as Bob McKenzie on the left in the black and white pic) brought the noise and made a strong case for inclusion. He took Marty Frey's smak and handed it right back, he set the record straight on the War Hero in the car wash incident, and did quite well on his movie quotes. CLICK HERE to listen to the podcast or just click the link at the top right of the page. You know TundraTalk is the Podcast that does not suck.
Next up on the Podcast that never ends is Shawn Hauser of the Green Bay Hausers. He will round up our interview process and send the wheels in motion to selection. Unless, Tony Mutzenberger makes a late apperance. Which would be nice.
How will the selection happen you ask? Well let me tell ya. It, of course, will be long and drawn out. I will be selection 5 guys for the posse, PLUS two alternates. The alternates will not have the honor of being in the actual posse BUT will be called upon at a moments notice to fill in for a 'first team' memeber if he cannot fulfill his duties at any time.
On the first selection post I will name the two fellas who rose up to be apart of the the alternate crew. Then I will post once a day until we have the whole crew named. I know, the tension is thick and you cannot hardly wait, but it will be worth it.
Okay, I know a lot of you have already seen the video above but I am showing it now because it is almost boat season here in Saskabush and I am damn sure going to be singing this song, in my head, every time I set foot in my boat. Funny as shit. I played it at work about 30 times the other day.
Oh, if you are at work make sure you do not turn it up because there is some swearing in the song. I will not take any responsibility if you lose your job because you are jamming out to this. I saw it first on Shannon Just Blog.
NEXT: I conducted Marty Frey's Entourage interview last night and it was epic. I will be editing it today and hopefully have it up tonight for all 20 or so of you who actually take the time to listen to it to peruse. Marty came strong and took shots at the host, NBC, Jay Leno, and of course the queens.
Speaking of Jay Leno he gave us some insight in the whole shift of power between Jay and Conan since he has been in rehearsals for Conan's show all week. This is another TT exclusive for you. I am truly a media mogul running this multi dollar website. You can CLICK HERE or click on the link to the right to listen to the podcast. If the words are not blue I do not have it up yet. When they turn blue it is on. Nice.
That also means that Chad Weiser, of the Seattle coffee drinkin' Weisers, is up next. I plan on cranking that one out soon also so be prepared.
NEXT: My picks for the Stanley Cup Final will be very similar to last year except for one thing....
DETROIT RED WINGS (2) VS PITTSBURGH PENGUINS (4)
Now, you all know I hate the Red Wings with a passion. I don't need to go there. We also know that Preacher and Doroshenko misguidedly love the wings. Don't need to go there. Ty Conklin is one of the greatestGreen Bay Gamblers of all time AND a TT vetran. True. I want Ty's name on the Cup more than I want Favre to stay retired (which he will). Yes we know that. Preacher is in love with Sidney Crosby. True.
So where is this going? To the obvious, Penguins will win the Stanley Cup. Take it to the bank. Now I will tell you why. Since Gary Bettman is a tool and his only desire is not to keep the game of hockey great but to get better ratings in the USA (which will NEVER happen). In his infinite wisdom, and since NBC has their hand up his ass (sorry Marty). He has decided to play back to back games in the Stanley Cup final. Somebody kick this guys ass now.
Some of you may say that these guys are pros and should just shut up and play. Well you can say that as long as you are just watching them on TV. BUT, I followed the Oilers in 2006 in the playoffs and finals and I can tell you by being there that this is a very difficult thing to win the Stanley Cup. These guys beat the shit out of each other and that day of rest is very important to them. Gary, the numbnuts, Bettman makes them play Saturday night and then again Sunday afternoon. That is less than 24 hours to recover. God forbid the game goes a few overtimes. Screw Gary Bettman. He is ruining the game of hockey. Not to mention his hypocracy with this whole Phoenix Coyotes thing. Screw him.
Anyway, I think the Penguins are less beat up and are more ready for this. Sid the Kid has the eye of the tiger and Billy Gun Guerin has not got this far in his career and is not going to let it slip away. Sorry Ty, I am taking the Penguins in 7.
I would also like you to notice for the past few posts there has been little things to click on at the bottom. Kinda instant feedback you can say. Make sure you take time to click on the stuff on the bottom. Especially the viqueens suck one.
Oh and one more thing: I found this the other day on PackerPalace dot com. Fran Tarkenton, who played for the queens, has apparently lots to say about Favre in the Green Bay Press Gazette. After reading this...
“I think it's despicable,” Tarkenton told 790 The Zone in Atlanta (via the Minneapolis Star Tribune) regarding the possibility of Brett Favre playing for the Vikings. “What he put the Packers through last year was not good. Here’s an organization that was loyal to him for 17, 18 years, provided stability of organization, provided players. It just wasn’t about Brett Favre. In this day and time, we have glorified the Brett Favre’s of the world so much, they think it’s about them. He goes to New York and bombs. He’s 39 years old. How would you like Ray Nitschke in his last year [playing for] the Vikings, or I retire, and go play for the Packers? I kind of hope it happens, so he can fail.”
“He told the Packers [after 2008 that], ‘I’m retiring,’” Tarkenton said. “They’ve got to move on. They’ve got to go through their offseason plan, their workouts, they go with the other quarterback [Aaron Rodgers], who is a good player, and then [Favre] comes back and says, ‘I think I want to play.’ . . . You build your team in the offseason. Everybody knows that. It’s about team. It’s not about Brett Favre. So he goes and runs up to the Jets, doesn’t even dress in the locker room with the players. Has a separate facility. Playing quarterback is about the relationships you have with your coaches, with your players, with your trainers, with your managers. How can you do that if you show up on gameday and you haven’t put the time in? And now he’s trying to do it again in Minnesota. And if Minnesota bites, God bless them. . . .
“He’s been a great player, there’s no question about it, but it’s all about him. It is supposed to be all about your team. If you’re going to be the quarterback of your team, you need to be there in the offseason workouts in March and April. Peyton Manning’s there. Tom Brady’s there.”
“I think [Favre] has been a great flamboyant quarterback, but he has made more stupid plays than any great quarterback that I’ve ever seen,” Tarkenton said. “Look at his final game in a Packers uniform [the 2007 NFC title game]. He blew that game against the Giants. He’s playing against Eli Manning. I love Eli Manning, but he’s still not a great quarterback. He’s not Peyton yet, or Tom Brady. He’s just a guy. And [the Packers] are playing at home, and they’re in a tight situation, they went to overtime and [Favre] throws the interception that allows [the Giants] to come back and win the game.”
I used to have a lot of respect for Fran, but now all I have to say to him is show me your ring dick weed, then you can talk. Suck on that Frannie boy.
Thank you.
Make sure you send Derek Venckus, of the Deep South Venckus', a happy birthday greeting. He will appreciate it. Have a great day and an even better weekend. Now GET BACK TO WORK.
The first round is in the books and man was it a gooder. That Blackhawk, Godless flames series was awesome. We can all now enjoy the playoffs that much better now that the flames are done. I hate those guys.
The Hurricanes Devils series was great also. The Rangers showed us all how to choke it out and how to act very unprofessional. Sorry Hauser, but your boys blew.
How did I do, well let's check. Well I was 6 for 8 in picking. I missed the Vancouver series because the Canuckelheads finally showed up for the playoffs and the biggest choke team ever, the San Jose Sharks proved that winning the Presidents trophy doesn't mean shit in the second season. I hate the Mighty Ducks, I hate the Mighty Ducks, I hate the Mighty Ducks. Shitty movie, shitty team. Oh and for the record Preacherman was 4 for 8. Loser. Better luck next time.
Second round picks, here they come...
EASTERN CONFERENCE:
BOSTON BRUINS (1) vs CAROLINA HURRICANES (6)
Now we have a huge series here. Huge. Both of these teams never say quit. Boston is a punch you in the mouth as they whip you team and Carolina plays along the same lines. Carolina also is Ric Flair's team so this makes it a bit harder to pick. My gut says Carolina but my head says Boston. Gotta go with the gut.Carolina in 7
WASHINGTON CAPITALS (2) vs. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS (4)
This one is tough also. I don't like how the Russians play hockey. They have too much skill and are a little too arrogant. Ovetchkin is an amazing player along with his linemates, BUT, I think that the Penguins have the edge in goalies. That goes a long way in this time of the year. I am going to take Preacher's boyfriend Sid the Kid and the Pens in 6.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
DETROIT RED WINGS (2) vs ANAHEIM MIGHTY DUCKS (8)
We all know how much I hate these two teams. So I will just keep this one short. Trev and Preacher, I hate saying this. Wings in 7. I feel dirty.
VANCOUVER CANUCKS (3) vs CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS (4)
The Canucks are another one of those dissappearing teams. Luongo has been playing out of his mind lately and the Sedin sisters have hiked up their skirts and started to play. That said, I love the Blackhawks and the skill on that team. Backed by the Bulin Wall that team can be unstoppable. Youth is the only thing they have going against them. That can be helped by the noise of the United Center but they don't have home ice. The Canuckleheads do. Wow, this one is very tough. I am sticking with the Hawks. Chicago in 7.
Well there you have it, the sure fire picks for the second round of the NHL playoffs. Again, call your bookie and make your bets. I love being right.
Okay people. Episode three is up and on the air. CLICK HERE if you want to listen to the finest podcast on the internet. Of course it goes without saying that it does not suck.
On this episode Blair and I are waiting in line getting nervous about meeting the 16 time world champion. Yup you heard me right, I got a bit nervous. Just to ease the mood a bit I started a fight with Yukon Jack-ass of the Bear radio in Edmonton. He is a jack ass and I pointed it out to him. That shit is funny.
We also visit with Trev Doroshenko again as he comes to pick me up at the airport. I can make a podcast out of anything. Really I can. So if you have 12 minutes to kill, have a listen. We also revisit the Drunk PJ incident again. That shit is funny.
TundraTalk the Podcast that does not suck is finally back on the internet. Part one of a I don't how long series is up and on the air. In this episode of TundraTalk we catch up on the action as Trevor Doroshenko, of the Regina Doroshenkos, drives me to the airport to fly to Edmonton for the Ric Flair show. We also meet up with Blair Stefishin', of the Edmonton Stefishin's as he picks me up at the airport. Man this is compelling stuff.
CLICK HEREif you want to listen, or just click on the link on the right hand side of this page.
Okay, I am sorry that it took me to blow up on you but you came through. Marty was the first to step up to the plate but the rest of you took off.
First up we have Ivy, of the Moorhead Minnesota Ivy's. He apparently is down south somewhere that is not experiencing the best of weather. Ivy what you got?
Peterson:
I was actually thinking a Pack jersey might be OK, as I thought "the" question could be Pack, or Queens? He is an old Gopher you know.
And it is totally appropriate to break tradition and do the 4 fingers with Nature Boy. You really shouldn't do it any other way in my opinion.
Wish I was there. Coldest weather in Florida since the Ice Age and too windy to fish. Oh well...
Later
Ivy
Okay Ivy is for the Pack jersey. Figures since he is a queen fan. Remember all you queen fans are welcome under our tent. No harm done. He is also for the four fingers up. I am thinking that is a good idea also. As for your question, not bad. I might add that one in there. If he says queens, I am not sure if I will tell him he is wrong, even though he would be. I know it would be an honour for him to lock in the figure four on me, but that kinda hurts so I think I will leave it alone.
Next up is Danny McIntosh, of the Regina CTV (sucks) McIntosh's. He is also in agreement on the four fingers up...
I have the solutions to your problems my friend. You wear your very own Ric Flair/Chris Peterson head to toe Armani. You flash the 4 fingers. And you ask him how his kids are doing. Problem solved.
Need anything else - let me know.
Dan McIntosh
Okay Danny. Thanks for the help. Not sure I am going to ask how are his kids. I do know that one of his boys is going to wrestle one of Hogan's kids. The one who is not in jail for killing someone (allegedly). As for the 'anything else' how about coming over and shoveling my driveway. See ya soon.
Next on the list of those who helped is Jon Bauer, of the Minot Budget Tapes and Records Bauer's..
Chris,
thing to sign : your arm so that you can make it into a real neat tattoo thing to wear: Carolina Huricanes Hockey jersey question: ask him if he has ever met Chris Paul
hope this helped
Jon Bauer
First off, no, Jon is not related to Jack Bauer of 24 fame. Second, the tattoo is funny but not practical. I did a story on a guy in GB once who wanted Favre to sign his back so he could do that. He also had a full size tattoo of Lambeau Field, Lombardi, the Super Bowl trophies (viqueens don't have any), and about 10 0ther things Packer related. Nope, not gonna do it. The Carolina Hurricanes jersey is a good idea but I do not have one. Last but not least, who is Chris Paul? Is he a basketball player, and why should Flair know him?
Next up is Heath McCoy, of the Calgary Herald McCoy's. He is as you all know the author of the great book about Stampede Wrestling. You can buy it here. Great book. Let see if his ideas are as good as the book...
Seriously man… That was a funny blog. I'd definitely pose with him doing the horsemen hand sign. It's a show of respect and will show him you're a true fan as opposed to the generic thumbs up.
As for the question… I think I'd ask him what he considers to be the golden era of professional wrestling and if he thinks the art is dying in the current climate. How does today's product measure up to what he was bringing people in the 70s and 80s?
Good luck man… I'm pumped for ya.
Heath
Thank you Heath. I appreciate your comments since you are a big time author and all. Another vote for the four fingers up. I like your question a lot. I was thinking of asking something along these lines but could not word it as well as you did. I guess that is why you get paid to do this by the Calgary Hearald. Nice job Heath. I will ask him that.
Donna, of the Donna's who lives in my house Donna's, also gave me some, ahem, advice.
Christopher,
You sound like a girl getting ready for the prom. I don't think you planned this much for our wedding.Donna
uh thanks, I think. I am not sure if you really know what a prom is since you do not have those here in Canada. But thanks again. Oh and I did plan a lot for our wedding. Remember the keg. That was me.
Last but not least, Venckus Schmenkus, of the Tennessee Venckus',drops this one on me...
Peterson,
You think you're stressed? Really? My stomach has been in knots for months waiting to find out if I'm part of your entourage.
Venckus
Okay Derek, dually noted. I am still trying to get over the fact that I did not get the war hero on a podcast and have got a bit lazy. First order of business next week is getting Mitch Davis on his interview for the Entourage. I have a few days off next week so I can get this done. Oh, wait, he is going to some beach somewhere. Okay, so we will adjust our lineup a bit and skip over to Marty. Then Mitch, if he is back. Or we will just do Weiser. Get ready boys cause here I come.
Tomorrow, Doroshenko is driving me to the airport at 7am so I have to pack. Get ready E Town Here I come.
The Packers season is ready to start again and I thought I would post the video above just to get all of us motivated to cheer on the greatest football team to walk the face of the earth. I am not sure who shot this footage and I am also unsure of who edited it. Maybe I did, maybe James Rafferty, of the Montana Rafferty's. Who knows. All I know is it is awesome.
This is something I think about on occasion. At WGBA we had a great group of shooters. With the exception of Flan from FOX in Green Bay, WGBA had THE BEST football shooters in town. Hands down. NFL films looks at our stuff and drools. Anyway, enjoy this video. I do daily.
So the new season is upon us and I have yet to proclaim to you that the Packers are gonna win the Super Bowl. It is a seasonly occurrence, one that comes in the fall along with the bluster of the cold winds. Well this year I am still stinging a bit from the whole Brett Favre thing. Oh and to just pile on a bit TT decides to release Regina's own, Jon Ryan. You will know that story because TundraTalk broke the story NATIONWIDE. Those Bozo's dump the 9th ranked punter in the league for a guy who has NO ranking in the league. MORONS. Oh and again, all the great pics of Packers and stuff are from PACKER PALACE DOT COM.
Anyway to get back to my proclamation. Like I said it is tough. Had Number 4 still been here I would have been shouting it from the mountain tops, or here in Regina hilltops. Don't get me wrong the Packers are still going to win the SuperBowl. Oh yes they will. I just needed a little more time to get behind it this year. So here we go...
THE GREEN BAY PACKERS WILL WIN THE SUPER BOWL. Believe that.
They of course open the season this Monday night against the queens. Which brings me to my next comment. Like you didnt' see this one coming. The queens suck. What better team to start your season at home with an ass kicking? Maybe the bears. It will be great to see on MNF, for the whole world to see. A Rod better have his head wired on straight or there will be lynch mobs outside Lambeau.
For all you queen fans out there, there is a standing offer to bet on this game. Not for money, you all know the currencey I wager in. Peanut Butter Cap'n Crunch, Funyuns, and the best beer in the world Leinie's. Bring it queen fan. I am running low on the Cap'n and Funyuns. Principe, you owe me a dinner, might as well be two. Bring it. Dahl, wanna go 'round again? Those Leinies that you paid up with this summer sure tasted good. Wanna fill my fridge some more? How about you Keller? You want some? I mean really it is like shooting queens in a barrel. How about some of you newbies out there? Want to get in on the action?
Oh and one more thing. I have been critical of A Rod our new QB that he is candy ankles and kind of a pussy but in honor of the team I have decided to throw my support behind this guy. I will be shaving my beard on Sunday to resemble his. He has this crazy goatee thing going on that I am sure will look crazy on me and sure as hell looks crazy on him. I will post it on game day for you all to laugh at.
To go along with the Packers season opener I also put up the classic CWA interview and video that I shot at Lambeau. This is a band that truly is awesome. I have all their albums and a poster. If anyone is interested in a copy of the CD's let me know. This is great music to listen to on game day, at a tailgate, or any other day of the year. VERY Inspirational. Ask Trevor Doroshenko of the Regina Doroshenkos. He knows.
In the past few days I found some old school stuff that I put to DVD and then to the computer. So in the next week or so I will be posting some classic WhiteHot productions stuff that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe throw up. Stay tuned and GO PACK GO!!!! Shane T Keller, of the Hollywood Kellers, sent Tony some love for being in Speilberg's video...
That is so cool! The coolest thing is not that he is in this video, but the reason that he is in this picture. I am very proud of Tony and am very proud to say that I know him, his wife and people of their caliber. It really takes a special thing to do what they do and to have that kind of conviction!! Well done.
As I sit here with a bag of frozen peas on my lap I can honestly tell you that I am willing to share anything up here on TundraTalk. I shared with you my root canal. I shared with you my Trish Stratus fart story. Nothing really is out of bounds.
I am now taking it to the next level. If you are a loyal listener to TT the Podcast, you know that I was scheduled to get fixed. That's right the Big V. Before you run screaming to your You Tube site to watch some dude sing a bad version of Karioke, I will tell you I have no pictures, just a few good stories. If you enjoy laughing, read on. If you enjoy laughing at me, you HAVE to read on. Doug Helbing of the Bismarck Helbings, said he had it done a while back so if guys are doing it it must be okay, right?
Before I went to this thing I decided that if I do not make it through this, I would give all my sports memoribilia to Trev Doroshenko, of the Regina Doroshenkos. EXCEPT the Brett Favre ball because when I go, I am taking that with me. Not sure if Trev wants all of it, but that is too bad if he doesn't. Donna was a bit upset with that because she said she would want to keep it around and 'cherish' it. Not sure if that is code for garage sale, but it was nice to hear.
It was yesterday at 12:30pm. I of course was soooo excited. I mean really, who doesn't want to lay on a table with your junk hanging out for some dude to take a scalpel to? Oh, yeah, just get in that line. Nick Chase, of the fighting terrorism Fargo Chases, commented that he thinks it is a "minor" surgery and I told him it is "bigger" than he thinks, and stop thinking about 'it'. Not that there is anything wrong with that.?.
Lets go back a few months. I was hanging out at the CBC in Kenny Bilash's, of the Regina Bilash's, edit bay when the subject came up. Not sure how or why, but it did. Kenny said that the CBC had done a story on this new 'scalpeless procedure' that they are doing now and that I should watch it. Well, I am one for not having too much pain, especially down there, so Kenny goes and gets the story and I go to a vacant edit bay and sit down for a look see.
I cue it up and the first thing I see is another dudes junk right there in 16x9. That is all I need is someone to come into this edit bay, where I am sitting by myself, and see me looking at some other guys junk! Kenny set me up. He says he didn't, but with a smirk on his face. Nice. No digi back when they did this story? Come on. No one wants to see another guys junk.
Needless to say the doc that is doing the procedure does not do the new 'scalpeless' way. So I guess the joke is on me again.
Fast forward to yesterday around noon we are pulling into the Pasqua General Hospital and there is this big German Shepard in the back of a truck in front of us barking his head off. Yeah buddy, I know how you feel.
After around a 30 minute wait, Canadian wait times aren't that bad don't beleive what the fear mongering Republicans tell you, my name is called. Moment of truth. I have been waiting for around 3 or 4 months for the day (I had to cancel once, and the doctor had to cancel once) to get here and now was go time. I was instructed remove my gear and to lie on the table and cover up with a blanket. I brought my iPod with me to try to cope with the idea that I am going to be awake while some dude has sharp edges near my stuff.
Doc walks in, I put on Rage Against the Machine. He asks me what is that? I say and iPod and he responds what is that? My doctor does not know what the hell an iPod is? What the hell? Am I sure that he is who he says he is. Maybe I should check ID. 'Just another bomb track' is now blasting in my ears.
As a cameradude who once worked for Trinity Hospital in Minot and did Trinity Health Talk once a week for the lousy noon show on KX, I have shot hundreds of surgeries. Major and 'minor' as Nick calls it. I have seen a mans heart stopped, I have seen total knee replacement, and I have even seen an angioplasty (I think). BUT ALWAYS THROUGH A BLACK AND WHITE VIEWFINDER. Never in color and never with my own two naked eyes. Sorry about saying naked. Whenever I flip by some show that is showing a surgery I flip fast. Cannot stand to see it, don't want to see it. Keep it away from me.
The doctor asked me if I wanted to know what he was doing? Nope, just leave me alone with my Rage. I just want you to do it and get out. He of course did not like that but still did not take away my iPod.
Since I had the iPod only in one ear so as to make sure that I heard his instructions "Whatever you do don't move your hands down here." Okay that is easy. I hear this metal clip that appears to sound a bit like when you release a vice grip pliers. Uh oh, what is that for? I did not have to wait long to find out. That is exactly what it was, a vice grip for my boys. Now the next time I hear that a chick has a dudes nuts in a vice, I know exactly what they are talking about. Hey doc how about some numbing for the area? Holy crap that is a bit of a pain.
By this time we are up to 'Killing in the Name of". Okay here we go, needle number one. Pain but not bad. Now this guy must have been in a hurry because he hadn't set down the needle before I could feel the scalpel cutting me. Yeowch. Not something I recommend to anyone. Things are going along well, if you consider 'well' is another guy with a vice grip on your boys slicing and dicing his way through my privates. When all of a sudden I feel like someone just kicked me as hard as they can. I of course express my discomfort. The the doc says "Oh sorry, I can fix that."
WHAT!?!?!?! YOU CAN FIX THAT? WTF? That is the last thing a dude wants to hear when a doctor is working on the boys. He says 'I can fix that'? Oh man, am I pissed. I put both ear pieces in and hear "F#ck you I won't do what I tell you". Yeah, Rage is just what I need right now.
He 'fixes' that and says to me "If it is any consolation I am almost done....with this side." Thanks, dick. He stiches me up and starts on the other side and a nurse comes in, on the other side of the screen, and asks the doctor if he needs anything. My first thought is he needs a manual, but doc says he is fine. I tell the nurse I could use a shot of vodka and she replies that they have some but do not share with the patients. Great, everyone is a comedian.
At this point I am half way thru the Rage record and I am sweating like a pig. Just sweat running off of me. He tells me he is going to give me extra pain stopper for the other side. Thanks dude, now just get it done. He manages to get thru the other side with out having to 'fix' anything and is sewing me up. At this point he calls for a nurse to come in and 'help' him find a band aid. Oh great, it is not humiliating enough that a guy has a hold of my jewels but now someone else gets to come in and witness it. I think to myself, she is just a nurse, no big deal. Nurses are like your mom. Great, now I have mentioned my mom. I open my eyes and see the nurse. Great. She looks like the nurse that you see at a strip show. I am lying here with my junk out, some dude has a hold of it, and strip show nurse comes in.
How do you act cool in this situation? No way to do it. On top of that I look like someone has dumped a bucket of water on me I am sweating so much. Hey doc, can you wrap this thing up soon while I still have a fragment of my dignity?
So he does and then just says to me, "When you feel like getting up just get up and go." And he left. Whatever happened to bedside manner? You just spent 30 minutes holding onto my family jewels and you don't even say goodbye? How about buying me dinner?
So I lay there for a while reflecting on what just happened, and another nurse comes in and gives me some paperwork and then kinda stands there as to say "Well, are you leaving?"
I appease them and get up gingerly and head to the waiting room where Donna and the girls are waiting. As I walk out of the joint, again gingerly, I could not help but think that it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be but hell, could they not at least get me drunk before they did all that to me?
Okay, so Trev, of the Regina Trev's, and me went to the Rider game on Saturday. It was against the Montreal Allouettes. Anyway, I was geeked and so was Trev. We totally had good seats, 24 rows up on the 40 yard line. Sweet.
It was really rainy right up to kick off. We stood underneath the stadium to partake in tasty beverages and delicious bratwurst. As we were doing so I noticed a TSN Camera jockey taking pictures of the water that was draining off the stadium. Now me being the low keyed guy that I am naturally decided to stay away from the camera and not risk being noticed. Yeah right. I walked right up to the camera and said hello. Nice. Well after that I then recieved several phone calls letting me know that I made the show. NATIONWIDE BABY!!!. Yup, that is how I roll.
Then the rain stopped, we took our seats, the we had more tasty beverages, we sang a few songs, saw Elvis, high fived several complete strangers, saw a rainbow, and oh, yeah, THE RIDERS BEAT THE SNOT OUT OF THE ALS. In that order. Gotta love it when a plan comes together.
Outstanding game to watch. The Riders knocked a ball loose on a kickoff, picked off a pass, and scored a brilliant TD to win. All in the last three minutes or so. AWESOME.
Riders are 4-0, first time since 1970 they have been 4-0. Ahhhhhh, I remember that year well. I was three years old and just finished a mini movie on toilet training. Very successful year for me. Hosted by Chad Weiser, of the Seattle Weiser's.
You want to be in my posse. You know you do. Hell, I want to be in my posse. You want to roll with me. As Jim Rome said, "You are who you roll with". Word Up. You know that wherever you go, you will be recognized. Recognized for being cool, phat(not fat), smooth, smart, happenin' (without the g), chillin' (again without the g), and most of all really, really, really, really, neato. Yes, I am bringing Neato back.
Okay, so I still have not gotten Tony on the Podcast. I will, I will. This week I promise. I have been kinda busy, you know being a National TV star and all.
Hmmm, what's next for me? Let's see, big screen twice, Nationwide TV on TSN, and on all the highlight shows all night long (TSN,SNet, and Score). Done all that. Well I guess, next stop is Hollywood. Marty, make some room on your couch, there is a superstar on his way. WHooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!
Oh, and Brett Favre was on the ESPYS this weekend. Nice. He was funny. Oh and the video that they showed was pretty amazing. Made me again realize why he is the greatest.
So my homey Trev, now of the Regina Doroshenko's, gave me a hook up to the season opener of the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Which I might also add was against the hated Edmonton Eskischmos. Of course I was not going to turn it down. I am so excited to have football back. It is only a matter of time until the NFL is back. There is nothing better than football on a hot summer afternoon. Especially when your team get the chance to whip the snot out of the Eskimos.
Some of you now might be saying, "Wait, Chris. Did you not at one time have season tickets to the Esks?" I would have to answer yes, at one time I was a ticket holder at Commonfilth stadium. Everyone makes mistakes in their life. I have made many. But everyone is also given a second chance, a new lease on life if you will.
I was shown the light by Dan Kepley on that fateful day back in 2002 when he threatened my life at Eskimos practice. I realized that I was backing the wrong horse. I have changed my ways and moved away from the Evil Empire to a more righteous team. Not unlike God's team, the Green Bay Packers (That is what the G on the helmet stands for is God). The Riders are community owned, just like the Pack. They issue stock, just like the Pack. And they travel well, just like the Pack. You go to a game in any other barn in this country and you will find more Rider fans than the locals. Oh and the S on the Riders helmet stands for, uh, SuperAwesome, uh, I think. So lets get back to the issue at hand, the Riders beating the snot out of the Esks on Saturday.
Trev and I decided to head to the stadium early enough to get a Pilsner and a Bratwurst. As we were enjoying the fine Saskatchewan weather and one of the tastiest brats this side of Lambeau Field, Trev noticed a dude that looked strangely like the commisioner of the CFL. After a few moments of discussion and disputing, we decided that it was him and I decided that I needed to get a brush with greatness photo. How could I pass up the opportunity to get a pic with the commish? The guy on the left in the pic is Commisioner Mark Cohon, and the dude on the right is the CEO and President of the Riders Jim Hopson. Oh and the good looking dude in the middle is me. How cool is that? The Commisioner of the freaking league and the CEO of the Riders was hanging out drinking Pilsner in the tailgate area. Only in the CFL. Cohon also told Trev that he has Pilsner shipped out to him in Ontario he likes it so much. Nice.
As we were taking that fine picture Mr. Hopson commented on my awesome Ray Elgaard jersey. I mentioned that I was a big fan of Ray and he told me that Ray was at the game today. I have been trying to get Ray's autograph for a long time. Apparently he does not come back to Regina much. Mr. Hopson then laid out the plan on how I was going to get my jersey autographed by the big WR. Sweet, this game was turning out great already. A Bratwurst, a few tasty beverages, I met the commishioner, AND I get Ray Elgaard's autograph. Hopson told us to meet him in the green and white room and he would make it happen. You do not have to ask me twice.
Ray was totally cool and even gave Trev some shit. Trev told Ray that he was a big fan and Ray said "So that is why you chose to back DeFrance (74 jersey that Trev was wearing)." Sweet.
The game hasn't even started yet. So then we roll to our seats to watch the game. We again aquired a few tasty beverages to cool our parched throughts.
The commish came out gave a little speach and they played this video up on the big screen. It was awesome. It would be good for those of you south of the border to see what the CFL is about. Just a little bit of love for the CFL. CLICK HERE and then click on "This is our league" to see it if perhaps you cannot see the video above.
The Riders started slow but finished strong and whipped the Eskischmos 34-13. Even better during the game Me and Trev managed to get on the scoreboard three times. I have said it before and I will say it again... It helps when you know the guys who run the cameras. Great time had by all.
So for those of you south of the border, if you per chance want to come up to a CFL game, and get on the scoreboard, give me a call. Just do it soon because most of the games are sold out. I highly recommend a trip to Taylor field for a brat, a few tasty beverages, and most importantly a Rider win.
Okay, it is about time that I put something on this blog before they take it down. In fact we had a milestone this summer. We had our 10,000th hit. Whooo hoo. 10 grand. Sweet. Enjoy it TT Nation, you deserve it.
