Forget about Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year for many Americans is March Madness, baby! And, it's right around the corner.
Is today's matchup between #1 UNC and #5 Duke a possible preview of the NCAA Championship game weeks from now? Are people enjoying the intrigue surrounding these two great teams?
Louisville (13) vs. Georgetown (10) should be exciting just hours from now.
ESPN.com has a great Bracketology listing that's being updated regularly.
Moving to baseball: Where do folks feel Barry Bonds will be playing this year?
Also, is Tiger Woods the most dominant athlete in history?
Finally, Husker Brandon Sheppard needs a huge high jump today in Iowa to make it to next week's Indoor National Championship. Positive thoughts from NBers around the world could get him over the top!
Comments Policy
Cool Pic, NS
March 8, 2008 - 11:47 ET by BlondeHere's sending lots of Gator champion thoughts Brandon's way. Keep us posted.
Most dominant ever? Maybe Martina Navratilova. She was the best ever, for a very long time, at a much more physically demanding game.
As to the question though, both Tiger & MN have one thing in common...they changed their sport forever. Michael Jordan also comes to mind in this regard. Emmit Smith? Wayne Gretzky?
Maybe that ought to be the question...who forever changed his/her sport?
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Blonde
March 8, 2008 - 12:13 ET by Noel SheppardB,
Thanks for the well wishes. This has been an interesting season so far for Brandon, filled with excitement and disappointment -- much like life. What I've tried to keep him focused on is the experience rather than the results. I want him to be able to look back on these years with great fondness, regardless of how he does, because so few people get to this level in sports.
Of course, as you are likely aware, I'm also trying to remove some of the pressure that he feels believing that he'll perform better if he can relax. :-)
As for most dominant athlete, I think it's too soon to discuss Tiger, for he's going to accomplish so much more. That said, if he continues to perform at this level, ten years from now there'll be no question. He's likely to rewrite all golf records in the next decade and clearly become the greatest athlete ever.
As for Gretzky, people I think forget just how good the Edmonton Oilers were in the '80s. His success had a LOT to do with other star players on the team, including Grant Fuhr, one of the greatest goalies ever. When Wayne got traded to the Kings, his performance declined. In fact, he never won a Stanley Cup after he left the Oilers.
By contrast, Mark Messier went to the Rangers and made that team a powerhouse that did indeed win a Cup. This is something Gretzky never did without the Oilers.
As for MJ, I never saw a better basketball player. Ever. I'd name him, at this point, the most dominant player in recent history.
As for Emmitt Smith, I think his success was largely due to that amazing offensive line. I'm actually more partial to Barry Sanders who had to make most of his yards virtually on his own. ns
Must Disagree, N.
March 8, 2008 - 12:28 ET by BlondeOf course you had to pick the one athelete about whom I know virtually nothing...other than he's the name I know when the sport is mentioned (hockey).
As for Emmitt, he surely would have been on top of the Heisman pile had he stayed for his senior year at UF (the innaugural year of the Spurrier era). How many college superstars excel to the level that Emmitt Smith did once they go pro? And, as you alluded to above, it's difficult to measure an individual who is playing a team sport.
As usual, spot-on with Brandon...focus on the experience. I participated in intramural sports only at the college level....waterskiing. It was a blast, and some of my fondest memories of my days at UF.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Noel
March 8, 2008 - 12:46 ET by shawn228Good Luck to your son today, he is very lucky to have a supportive father like yourself.
I know how many touraments Tiger has won but I can't really comment because I don't understand gulf. I know a hole in one, but I have no idea what bogie or under or over par means. I will catch major flack for this but I do not consider gulf a true sport. It is the only game I can think of, with the exception of figure skating, that there is nothing an opponent can do to mess with your score and it does not demand much physically. mentally yes, but not much physically.
Gretzkey was awesome. He hold records that will never be broken, He scored 92 goals one yr, now a player is lucky to have 50. The thing is Gretzky even in his prime can not do what he did in todays game. The players are bigger, faster and the goalies are better. IMO, the most talented players in NHL history are Mario Lemieux, and Bobby Orr.
As a Cowboy fan growing up, Emmitt Smith was great. He was a great power runner, but Barry Sanders was much more talented. LT on the Chargers reminds me alot of Barry Sanders, The Cowboys had so many other weapons that they could not just concentrate on him. They had Irwin and Harper as wide receivers, Of course Troy Aikman as QB and Troys safety blanket Jay Novechek.
I would agree that Michael Jordon is the most dominant figure in sports history. I can't count how many times I have seen the Bulls down, by as much as 15 and MJ just started to sink the threes from downtown. He made it seem so easy. I would also have to put Joe Montana and Tom Brady in this category as well.
Shawn
March 8, 2008 - 12:53 ET by Noel SheppardShawn,
Thanks for the well wishes. No matter what happens, this is a big day for my son.
I'm in the middle of a pretty cool post about Glenn Beck and Olbermann. Will get back to you. ns
Shawn, trust me. Golf is a sport.
March 8, 2008 - 14:45 ET by R D HelmLOL-I have walked 18 holes on enough really hilly golf courses in North Georgia to know that. We have some courses here that have some serious elevation changes.
Augusta National is dead flat compared to some courses in the northern part of the state. Sadly, I have never actually played there. Darnit.
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
I read once somewhere that
March 8, 2008 - 22:22 ET by balboaI read once somewhere that what Gretzky did in hockey was akin to a baseball player hitting over .600.
That...is pretty impressive. Still doesn't excuse his SNL appearance. :-)
»→ Pete Maravich
March 8, 2008 - 12:20 ET by Cool ArrowBasketball used to be so dang dull.
♣ a seal
»→ Dick Fosbury
March 8, 2008 - 12:23 ET by Cool ArrowThe absolute definition of "paradigm shift"
♣ a seal
»→ Renee Richards
March 8, 2008 - 12:25 ET by Cool ArrowRevolutionized "Mixed Doubles"
♣ a seal
LOL.. All by him...
March 8, 2008 - 12:30 ET by JerryLOL.. All by him... herself.
When asked if he went to war with Iraq to derail the impeachment vote: “I don’t think any serious person would believe that any President would do such a thing." - President Clinton (Dec 1998).
»→ Pete Gogolak
March 8, 2008 - 12:27 ET by Cool ArrowPlacekicking has never been the same
♣ a seal
»→ Eddie Cochems
March 8, 2008 - 12:30 ET by Cool ArrowSaint Louis University football coach Eddie Cochems called the first forward pass in football 100 years ago, on Sept. 5, 1906.
♣ a seal
Most dominant athlete?
March 8, 2008 - 21:55 ET by NL207Most dominant athlete? That is easy.
Lawrence Taylor.
#56 redefined football. This man had eye popping speed in a heavyweight linebacker. He played at weights around 248. He reputedly had 4.35 speed in the 40 yd dash. This is WR/CB speed. Anybody who ever saw him play knows what he was like. He was a devil. He humiliated Hall of Fame offensive linemen. He destroyed entire offenses. His mere presence on the field was worth an unheard of 6 points on the spread.
NS, may your sons'
March 8, 2008 - 12:03 ET by FastEdlegs be as quick as a demolib escaping issue conversation, and his jump as high as their "planned" taxes!
Best of days, may he exceed his/your expectations!
There is no sense in being stupid, if you can't prove it! - my dad V
"and his jump as high as
March 8, 2008 - 12:15 ET by Jerry"and his jump as high as their "planned" taxes..."
Ed, this is the high jump, not the pole vault.
When asked if he went to war with Iraq to derail the impeachment vote: “I don’t think any serious person would believe that any President would do such a thing." - President Clinton (Dec 1998).
FE
March 8, 2008 - 12:22 ET by Noel SheppardFE,
Thank you. I haven't even looked at the matchups, and what the starting height is. I'm trying to take the pressure off myself, too.
You know, that trip I made to NU last month really changed my view of all of this. I had NO idea what bigtime college track was about until I went to that meet. Now I know, and want my son to enjoy it as much as he can. For me now, this is much more important than him winning, for I want him to be able to look back at these days with fondness and joy rather than disappointment that he didn't perform as well as he wanted.
There aren't a lot of people that can jump over a horizontal bar set at seven feet in height. It's really crazy. And, though this has been his goal since he was fourteen, he may never get there. But that shouldn't detract in any way from the fact that he is currently competing against the best in the country in front of packed stadiums.
Know what I mean? ns
He might not know the feeling(s) now
March 8, 2008 - 16:30 ET by FastEdbut way, way later, he WILL remember who was there! My memories of my dad are: not knowing what was really going on, either hoops or baseball, but he was there, watching, and rooting for his son. Didn't matter he didn't know the ins-and-outs of the games, MY dad was there.
In the future, your pride, his memories - priceless!
There is no sense in being stupid, if you can't prove it! - my dad V
Track: Edwin Moses, Carl
March 8, 2008 - 12:28 ET by JerryTrack: Edwin Moses, Carl Lewis, Al Oerter
Skating: Eric Heiden
Swimming: Mark Spitz
Basketball: Michael Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain, Pete Maravich
Football: Jim Brown, Lawerence Taylor, Dick Butkus, Deion Sanders
When asked if he went to war with Iraq to derail the impeachment vote: “I don’t think any serious person would believe that any President would do such a thing." - President Clinton (Dec 1998).
UNC vs Duke for the
March 8, 2008 - 12:35 ET by JerryUNC vs Duke for the NC...
As a native North Carolinian, I would love to see two NC teams battling it out for the NC.
When asked if he went to war with Iraq to derail the impeachment vote: “I don’t think any serious person would believe that any President would do such a thing." - President Clinton (Dec 1998).
As a major Duke fan I have
March 8, 2008 - 13:16 ET by Gat New YorkAs a major Duke fan I have to admit that I will not be surprised to see UNC hammer Duke as payback for the last game.
If Duke gets back on track we could see a final game with UNC.
11" of snow here in
March 8, 2008 - 12:41 ET by the struggler11" of snow here in Louisville.Awesome!
Go Cardinals.Woo-Hoo!
What do you mean...?
March 8, 2008 - 13:16 ET by mrjeff"around the corner?" MM is HERE! :-) Is there any other sport as safe, but exciting as basketball? Sure, there are some sprained ankles or inadvertent (maybe some intentional)elbow-throwing fouls, but football has to have pads for protection (and even then there are much more devastating injuries than in b-ball), racing is toying with eventual suicide, baseball lasts too looonnnng for the action, soccer doesn't have high enough scoring for the activity, and golf demands silence--and these characteristics are supposed to be fun and exciting?! Basketball strikes a good mix of great action and limited injury! And, yes, I'm a Tarheel fan and anti-Duke (ABD--anybody but Duke)! DUKE has their hands full just trying to recover from their lacrosse team antics off the field! Anyway, I am looking forward to the big game tonight and would love to see it repeated in the championship! As far as the verbal backnforth, there is plenty of blame to go 'round on both sides. Cursing, downgrading another person, or boasting of one's abilities is NEVER excusable, even in sports.
I'm Here
March 8, 2008 - 13:39 ET by ricklailWell y'all know that I can't keep quiet. I am looking for my Heels to put a good ole back yard whuppin' on DOOK and in Cameron at that.
If you ain't the lead dog, the scenery never changes.-Lewis Grizzard
I'm over here
March 8, 2008 - 19:05 ET by scamoramaI think we'll see Duke win a sqeaker. UNC isn't completely healthy, and Cameron is always nasty.
But, I expect UNC to win the ACC Tournament and get a #1 Seeding.
March Madness picks:
Duke loses in a Regional. UNC loses to UCLA in the Final.
The sports question of the day...
March 8, 2008 - 13:51 ET by goldenthroatIs Tiger Woods the most dominant athlete in history?
NB staffers, here is my question: Is golf even a sport? Would someone please tell me where is the athletic prowess in golf? What kind of physical condition must you be in in order to be a pro golfer?
If you look at fat boys like John Daly or Craig Stadler, the answer is clear: no shape at all. That's one reason I have a hard time equating golf with athleticism. It is more like an outdoor skill game.
I am am avid fisherman but I don't call fishing a "sport" - it is an outdoor activity.
Basketball, football, baseball, soccer, skiing, track and field - yeah, those are sports REQUIRING athleticism. Golf? The jury is out...
GT
March 8, 2008 - 14:07 ET by Noel SheppardGT,
You're darned right golf is a sport, one that the best athletes in the world can't do as well as the best golfers. Just ask Michael Jordan.
What's the athletic prowess? First, eye-hand coordination, which I suggest the top golfers far excel at than those in any other sport. The ability to strike that little ball so perfectly so many times over a four day period is nothing but astounding.
Furthermore, today's top golfers are in extraordinary physical condition. Tiger weightlifts regularly, and has full-time fitness instructors. It's not a fluke that this man hits the ball consistently further than anyone else on the tour.
If it matters to you, the opinions above come from someone that doesn't play a lot of golf, and doesn't consider himself a big golf fan. I'd much prefer to watch a college basketball or football game, unless we're talking about the final rounds of a major. So, I'm not coming at your question as a major golf enthusiast.
That said, as someone that has played a lot of sports in his life, there's no question in my mind that the toughest I've tried is golf. ns
»→ Golf
March 8, 2008 - 14:13 ET by Cool ArrowThere is much less evidence that figure skating and bullriding are sports. Seems they need judges to tell them if they did better than the opponent.
♣ a seal
Cool
March 8, 2008 - 14:25 ET by Noel SheppardCool,
Well, diving requires judges, and I think that's a sport. I also think gymnastics is a sport as well. ns
»→ I agree Noel
March 8, 2008 - 14:31 ET by Cool ArrowI was pointing out that people have different criteria for deciding what is a sport.
Some would say ballroom dancing is a sport. By what criteria could it be excluded?
♣ a seal
Reminds me of a song...
March 8, 2008 - 15:01 ET by goldenthroat"I rode 2.7 seconds on a bull named Fu Manchu..."
Maybe it's the BULL that's the athlete here!
And that's no bull...
Apples to oranges?
March 8, 2008 - 14:54 ET by goldenthroatNoel,
You bring up some good points. On the issue of the "top" golfers being in, what you call, extraordinary physical condition: yes, Tiger IS the best at what he does and KEEPS himself in shape - but is Tiger, and the few like him, the exception to the rule? He obviously works at his game and it is good to know he does PT. Maybe that's one of the major reasons why he is the #1 golfer in the world.
But again, I cannot compare Tiger Woods with overweight, out of shape guys like John Daly, who I have seen on gold tourneys with a consistent cigarette in his mouth while traversing the fairways, looking like a stroke waiting to happen.
And I doubt TW could play BB like MJ or LBJ...
Also, like you, I am not an avid golfer. In fact, if I do go golfing, I usually go kicking and screaming.
Now when it comes to fishing - get me up at 5 a.m. and I'll have the boat ready.
Mere talking points, Noel!
Let's go fishing sometime...---------<><
So fishing is not a sport?
March 8, 2008 - 15:02 ET by BlondeEver hauled in a 500 lb. billfish on 50 lb. test? They don't call it Sportsfishing for nothing. ;)
As far as I'm concerned, anything that gets one off the sofa, and involves competition of some sort, is a sport.
Oh, and don't forget to let me know about the fishing date...I'll get up at 4 a.m.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
»→ Blonde
March 8, 2008 - 15:07 ET by Cool ArrowI'm not particularly fond of the sport of Post Hole Digging.
♣ a seal
Cool
March 8, 2008 - 15:12 ET by BlondeWell, you would be if you lived on the King Ranch.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
»→ King Ranch
March 8, 2008 - 15:16 ET by Cool ArrowNever understood that. Seems they could let the cattle out at the center of the King Ranch and they'd die of old age before they could complete the trek out of the place.
♣ a seal
King Ranch
March 8, 2008 - 15:20 ET by BlondeI think the quarter horses are a wee bit faster than the cows...hence the post holes.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Factoring in inflation...
March 8, 2008 - 15:24 ET by goldenthroatBlonde,
Why aren't they called 50 cent horses now? Shouldn't we factor in inflation?
"Yeah! That's the ticket!" - Tommy Flanagan
Or eighth horses
March 8, 2008 - 15:27 ET by Cool ArrowSince the Horses Union only allows them to run an eighth of a mile according to the new contract.
♣ a seal
Dunno...
March 8, 2008 - 15:27 ET by BlondeDon't care...I'm riding an arabian these days (see my profile for a pic).
Must get moving...it's been fun, have a good one, my fellow angler.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
I blacked both my eyes
March 9, 2008 - 10:33 ET by the strugglerI blacked both my eyes digging post holes.It's a sport.
Blonde, there's something fishy here...
March 8, 2008 - 15:11 ET by goldenthroatBlonde,
Now THAT'S not a bad definition of sport! My biggest catch has been an 7 pound largemouth bass that I caught several years ago and hangs handsomely on my living wall!
I would love to spend a week at Ocheechobee - Okeechubee - ah, whatever that big Florida lake is and do some serious largemouth bass fishing there.
Tarpon, marlin or bluefish would be my dream saltwater fishing - northern pike or muskie in Canada would be fun, too.
Golden
March 8, 2008 - 15:17 ET by BlondeWell, if you make it as far as Okeechobee...look me up. I'd be happy to introduce you to saltwater fishing...I'd recommend the Keys.
Northern pike and lake trout in Canada are more than fun....any day fishing is fun. One of the best days I ever had fishing was for tiny little brown trout in Colorado, well, until I slipped and fell in.
It's all good.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
GT
March 8, 2008 - 18:00 ET by Noel SheppardGT,
That's funny. I love fishing. I've always wanted to go flyfishing, but never have. I hear you really need a lot of patience for that, which isn't my strong suit.
What we have here in Northern California is AMAZING salmon fishing. When late spring arrives, and the salmon begin their trek north, you can get on a party boat from Berkeley at six in the morning for one of the greatest times of your life. And, when they're really hitting, the boat can limit out before noon affording one a truly delicious ride into SF Bay that by itself is worth the price of admission.
Honestly, there's nothing like driving under the Golden Gate on a beautiful sunny day. Brings tears to my eyes every time.
Where are you from, and what kind of fishing do you do? ns
Fish schticks...
March 8, 2008 - 19:06 ET by goldenthroatNoel,
I live in northeast Ohio - Akron/Canton - within a short driving distance of some of the finest lakes in this region - Lake Erie (the walleye capital of the world) - Portage Lakes region, Atwood Lake region, other lakes like Clendening, Leesville, Pymatuning (which is split down the Ohio/Pennsylvania border) - and other too numerous to mention.
Walleye fishing on Lake Erie in late spring/early summer can be just like your salmon fishing on a good day - limit out by noon. And then in the late summer/early fall, smallmouth bass fishing kicks in!
There are places near the near shore marinas that will clean your catch before you go home! I have loved largemouth bass fishing for years although I just love fishing in general - whether it's blue gill, crappie, smallmouth bass or whatever. We also have some incredible muskie lakes in this region.
I am in possession of my late father's fly rods that he used as a teenager growing up in western Pennsylvania. I also have an arsenal of rods and tackle boxes myself!
Northern California salmon fishing sounds awesome! What species? Coho, king, sockeye, chum? Ah, who cares? As long as they're biting!
GT
GT
March 8, 2008 - 21:32 ET by Noel SheppardGT,
I think it's king. We'll pull in 20, 30 pounders. Monsters. Unbelievable eating. ns
ahhh!!!!
March 8, 2008 - 15:00 ET by candanceThe dook/Carolina game is huge this year!
When they beat dook back in 2006 we were on vacation in Wilmington. We busted out of our hotel room and started running through the parking lot screaming, "dook sucks!"
*sigh*
And then last year Hansbrough got his nose broken in that "accident" when dook realized they would lose.
Here's a little good luck charm for the road.
Candance
March 8, 2008 - 22:33 ET by MrShy"Tyler Handsbrough, baaabeeeeeey!!!
Jerry Stackhouse, baaaabeeeeeey!!
Vince Carter, baaabeeeey!!!
Antoine Jamison, baaabeeeeey!!
Rasheed Wallace, baaabeeeey!!!!
James Worthy, baaaabeeeeey!!
Kenny Smith, baaabeeeeeey!!!
Michael...... Jordan......... baaaabeeeeeeeeey!!!!!!!!"
:p
* * * SOCKS THE CAT '08 * * *
For REAL Change
I'd have to say that
March 8, 2008 - 19:45 ET by ricklailI'd have to say that Michael Jordan was the most dominant athelete ever. Tiger is most definetely the most dominate in his sport.
I heard this AM that Barry Bonds may wind up in Seattle. I can't see why any team would take a chance. He may be joining Vick in the pen.
If you ain't the lead dog, the scenery never changes.-Lewis Grizzard
Roger Federer
March 8, 2008 - 19:49 ET by balboaIt's hard to compare team sport athletes to those who compete alone. Honestly, Roger Federer is probably the most dominant athlete out there over the past few years.
Jordan was outrageously good. The game where he had the flu and still won the game for his team...wow.
Where do folks feel Barry Bonds will be playing this year?
March 8, 2008 - 21:42 ET by R D HelmUhh, the California Penal League?
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
Great Sports Quote of the Day
March 8, 2008 - 22:48 ET by Del DolemonteGot this e-mail from a fellow baseball fan out in the LA area-too funny!
"I got to hear my all-time favorite vocalist for the 1st time in what seemed like ages earlier today. That would be Vin Scully. A couple other Dodger Spring Training games had been aired on ESPN but today was the 1st official Dodger broadcast with The Man Himself at the mic. A lot of folks around the country are familiar with him to some degree but, if you didn't grow up (or fail to) in Southern California, I don't think you can really imagine just what a comforting treasure it is to listen to that old familiar voice call a game.
Anyway, we had a wonderful - and rather hilarious - moment about midway through the game when manager Joe Torre (I know that hurts some of you) pulled Rafael Furcal after he singled for a pinch runner, a young Taiwanese infield hopeful named Chin-lung Hu.
Vinny picked up on it right away and said, "You've gotta love it. Our very 1st broadcast of the season and I get to say 'Hu's on 1st!!!'"
UNC vs. Duke
March 8, 2008 - 23:43 ET by Noel SheppardSports Fans,
Is this an AMAZING GAME or what?
ns
NS
March 8, 2008 - 23:49 ET by BlondeHow did Brandon make out today at his track meet?
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Blonde,
March 8, 2008 - 23:53 ET by R D HelmExactly, as I keep checking in here trying to see if an update has been posted.
I hope Brandon did okay.
LOL-I was afraid to try to send any positive vibes, as my vibe generator appears to be on the fritz this week.
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
I thought Scheyer got a
March 9, 2008 - 00:03 ET by balboaI thought Scheyer got a little shot-happy in the later part of the game, but then he was fouled and there was no call on that three-pointer.
Great moment at the ESPN game day from inside Cameron. The crowd is there cheering, yelling, and then when the anchors started talking about the UNC student that was murdered, all Duke students went quiet and sat down in respect for that woman and the horrible tragedy.
hey Bal
March 9, 2008 - 00:20 ET by candanceScheyer and Nelson both seemed to show up to this game way too nervous and playing too fast.
This game was won by the team who had the most poise.
Yeah, they were too amped.
March 9, 2008 - 00:33 ET by balboaYeah, they were too amped.
Carolina was steadier. I thought last time Duke won because they shot the lights out from 3-point land in the first half.
B
March 9, 2008 - 00:01 ET by Noel SheppardB,
Just about to post it: Brandon tied for first (page 4)!
That's the good news. The bad news is that it's not enough to get him to Nationals next week. However, he saw the videos on the bus, and his coach said he was 3 inches over two of his 6-10 attempts. Just kept clipping the bar with his heel on the way DOWN.
As such, he was very pleased with his day, and feeling very confident about the upcoming spring season.
As you might imagine, coming from California, and where we live (in the valley), he's a warm weather jumper. So, he's feeling very good about things, and sounded really great on the phone. :-) ns
Congrats to Brandon!
March 9, 2008 - 00:10 ET by BlondeHow terrific for your son to win his meet. And it sounds like he's sure to reach his goal....2 attempts with just a clip of the heel sounds to me like it's all going to come together soon.
I'm sorry to hear he's not going to the Nationals...but competing at the level he is certainly makes him an elite athelete.
And I was in your neck of the woods for a few days in January...I don't know about warm weather, Noel....I froze my *** off there.
Please send contrats to your son for a fine season...ending on a win is always a good thing.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Hi blonde
March 9, 2008 - 00:14 ET by shawn228The weather has been beautiful lately, where did you go San Francisco? It is cold there for about 60 percent of the year.
And congratulations on your son from me as well Noel.
America's sweetheart does gangsta rap
Shawn
March 9, 2008 - 00:19 ET by Noel SheppardShawn,
Thanks. In reality, there wasn't a lot of competition. The best jumpers in the conference took the day off. But, a win is a win, right? ns
absolutey Noel
March 9, 2008 - 00:22 ET by shawn228absolutey Noel :-)
America's sweetheart does gangsta rap
Yeah, Shawn
March 9, 2008 - 00:20 ET by BlondeI was there for 3 full days...Napa, San Fran, & Bodega Bay (ate my own weight up in oysters farmed somewhere around there....oooh la la, best oysters I've ever had, and that's saying alot for a Florida girl).
I was frozen the whole time. The rain and damp cold was unreal, tho. I don't know if I could ever get used to that kind of weather.
Absolutely beautiful, though.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
blonde
March 9, 2008 - 00:27 ET by shawn228San Fran is great during the summer. Napa is just gorgeaus. The best restaurant in North America is there. It is rated fourth best in the world.
America's sweetheart does gangsta rap
Shawn
March 9, 2008 - 00:39 ET by Noel SheppardS,
Have you ever eaten there? It's the most overpriced dive I've ever experienced. This place is ALL hype and no substance.
Honestly, in all of my adult life, I NEVER felt so ripped off by a restaurant. NEVER.
The only thing good about this place is the wine list which, granted, is amazing. But, where we live, wine lists are almost a dime a dozen. ns
I have not eaten there Noel
March 9, 2008 - 00:51 ET by shawn228I just heard about it. I probably have not eaten their because you have to make reservations about a month ahead of time.
If the lineup is not too long, I actually like going to the Rutherford Grill when I am in Napa. The restaurants are better in Napa, but I think I prefer Sonoma for scenery.
America's sweetheart does gangsta rap
Shawn
March 9, 2008 - 00:56 ET by Noel SheppardShawn,
I actually prefer SF restaurants to Napa/Sonoma, mainly because I like the buzz of the city. Before Christmas, I ate at Michael Mina's in the St. Francis, and was REALLY blown away. 100 times better than the Laundry. Just wonderful. And, probably only a third the price.
If you and your wife want a great SF dinner experience, I highly recommend it. ns
Thx Noel
March 9, 2008 - 01:01 ET by shawn228I love food and I love food recomendations. It can be real fancy, taco bell, or even a great burger. You ever tried Max's Diner near where you live?
I heard Ruth Chris in Walnut Creek is over rated and Black Angus is just as good, is this true?
America's sweetheart does gangsta rap
Shawn
March 9, 2008 - 01:13 ET by Noel SheppardShawn,
I'm one of the originals at Max's. There's actually a sandwich on the menu named after me. I kid you not. We've been going there regularly since it first opened. Used to go there every Friday.
I haven't done Ruth's Chris in WC yet, but I doubt Black Angus is as good. That's hard to believe. However, I HIGHLY recommend the new Izzy's in the San Ramon marketplace next to the library. Good, solid A- steaks at a great price.
Don't eat in the restaurant. Eat in the bar in one of the semi-private booths. If you're familiar with Tadich's in the City, same kind of a set-up. Nicest bar in the valley, including WC. Really spectacular place.
Get yourself a babysitter, bring your wife, start with drinks and appies at the bar -- I highly recommend the cajun-fried oysters -- and ask Tony (bar-manager and bartender) to get the two of you a booth as soon as one comes available. Tell him Noel sent you. You'll have an SF-caliber dinner -- I recommend the whole filet au poivre (unsliced) -- with almost the same pulse, for less than half the price, and a much easier drive home.
Honestly, it's the best place on our side of the hills NO QUESTION! ns
thx Noel
March 9, 2008 - 01:25 ET by shawn228I am very familiar with that complex. I will have to check it out. My wifes birthday is a few weeks, I will take her there
America's sweetheart does gangsta rap
Shawn
March 9, 2008 - 01:37 ET by Noel SheppardShawn,
Cool. Something else to consider is the wine list is acceptable, but not spectacular. If you and your wife like truly fine wine, I'd recommend bringing your own bottle or two. This is probably the only downside of the place, although I don't find it a huge impediment because the problem with a good wine list is it will add $200 to your meal. At least. ns
NS
March 9, 2008 - 00:57 ET by BlondeHave you ever been to Joe's Stone Crab in Miami?
It's kind of a dive, but a dive of the good sort.
A SoFla experience. Just stay away from the Glenfiddich. Seriously.
<edit> and here we are, once again, talking about great food....go figure!
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
B
March 9, 2008 - 01:01 ET by Noel SheppardB,
Isn't it related to the folks that used to own Jupiter Crab? Just amazing place in Jupiter, but a bit of a dive? ns
Don't think so, NS
March 9, 2008 - 01:08 ET by BlondeJoe's has been in Miami forever. Before Julia Tuttle sent Henry Flagler an orange blossom.
Interesting town...times...and stories.
Check out "Charlotte's Story".
The Wild West...in the Florida Keys. In the 30's, IIRC.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
B
March 9, 2008 - 01:28 ET by Noel SheppardB,
Is this the place with shrimp the size of -- what was it again? :-)
Why can't I remember?
As you've traveled a lot like myself, how do you compare FL restaurants to other cities you've been in? What's interesting in my view, no matter where you go in America, there are really great restaurants.
When I was in Lincoln, NE, visiting Brandon last month, I took him and his bestfriend to a truly A- restaurant that surprised the heck out of me. My parents have some exceptional B+ to A- places in Stuart. They had the same around their little town of Cheshire, MA. Huntington Beach has great places. Indianapolis had great places. Phoenix. Las Vegas. Tahoe. You name it.
How do your restaurants in South FL compare to other cities you've traveled to? ns
Kittens, Noel
March 9, 2008 - 01:42 ET by BlondeAnd apparently, you weren't the only one to remember that! :)
Florida has become so urbane (unfortunately)...I feel it's lost quite a bit of its charm. But from a gastronomic POV, you can certainly lose your mind here. It just depends on what suits your fancy, at the moment.
When I travel, it's on biz, and although I have a nice expense account, I don't usually indulge to that level. I usually try to find the local spots, with local fare, and that makes me very, very happy.
I generally find the "name" restaurants to be over-rated, and over-priced.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Kittens
March 9, 2008 - 01:52 ET by Noel SheppardB,
Kittens. Why can't I remember that?
Yeah, I saw RD having the same memory issue. Funny, huh?
Anyway, as you probably surmized, I love restaurants. Since Brandon was born, I've lived my life to eat out on weekends with the family. We eat out every Friday and Saturday night. It's my reward after a hard week, and what I really look forward to.
We did a new sushi bar this evening. Absolutely amazing rolls, terrible nigiri. Terrible. Natalie -- a true sushi connoisseur -- hated it. We won't be going back there.
At the same time, a pizzeria/Italian restaurant chain in our area just opened a new location on Friday right down the street from us. Ate there last night. They're still working out the kinks, but we had a blast.
You get the feeling I like restaurants? ns
Certainly, NS
March 9, 2008 - 02:06 ET by BlondeThere is nothing more fun than finding a great new restaurant. Or introducing a friend to a nice place...just because....everything on the menu is fab!
There are always the old standby's...I have a couple, fortunately close by (at work)...one is a dive Sports Bar...but they have Black & Blue Burgers (Emeril would be proud of their cajun seasoning)....black angus beef....totally delish, and about a block from my office. Once a week, at least. Totally yummy for lunch.
And this one is a riot....there's a place on the beach here, in Ft. Laud...I took about ten work friends there, we had a very early reservation, so we could have a table overlooking the ocean. Imagine our surprise, when we were handed the "early bird" menu....$17.95 for apps, dinner, and dessert...and the dinner included a perfect 1 1/2 lb Maine lobster (and lots of other good stuff)! Plus a quite competent Key Lime Pie (and coffee).
We all had other stuff, lots of Martinis, etc....and the entire bill for ten of us was under $400 bucks.
Great shaking of heads....it was a hoot. Sometimes a "value meal" is more fun than one can normally have with clothes on.
It's all good.
Night'O, NS....and don't forget to reset your clock!
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Blonde,
March 9, 2008 - 02:05 ET by R D HelmYeah, that kitten-sized shrimp has stuck with me as well. LOL.
I generally find the "name" restaurants to be over-rated, and over-priced.
I agree. Back in my serious driving traveling days, such as Orlando, Jacksonville, Tampa, Cinci, Raleigh (where Calabash Shrimp positively rules), Lexington, Columbia, Nashville, Hattiesburg, New Orleans, etc., I usually would talk to the locals upon arrival, and got some really good tips on where the best local fare could be had. I was rarely let down.
I absolutely hate over-crowded restaurants, regardless of the food quality. Many of the places I frequented were well off the radar, but were well worth it. The bartenders were always friendly, too, if properly motivated.
I recall a place in Birmingham that was called "Let's Eat Smoked Meat."
One of the best BBQ experiences I have ever had. And I have had many of those.
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!
Well, RD
March 9, 2008 - 02:14 ET by BlondeWhen you finally get your, um, stuff together....and open that BBQ restaurant, I'll offer up a few recipes for shrimp.
And I do know where to find the little suckers...kitten sized ones....three make a meal.
And they are perfectly suited to the grill. Oh...and I have a great recipe for bacon wrapped mahi (dolphin). Tell you what...you do the entrees...I'll do the appetizers.
It's going to have to be kind of a seafood & BBQ place, tho. LOL. I can't think of a better thing, actually.
P.S. Mojitos.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Blonde,
March 9, 2008 - 02:28 ET by R D HelmLOL-Given the way things are going for me right now, ya just never know.
But yeah, even if its a dive, it just might work. Besides, the dives seem to do pretty well, so I've seen on FN.
Just ask that Guy Fieri guy. :-)
Theme for Election '08: I want my mommy!