Good Morning and welcome to the only place on the Internet you can find this!
There's a lot of talk about 'Madness' this morning. We'll deal with the NCAA Tournament later in the week. If you can hold out your bracket pools, check back Wednesday morning for the winning picks. It will be the 10 star bracket picks of the week.
Anyway, the 'madness' actually started Friday. Late Friday morning, a press release was received in the office saying Sunoco was laying off 20 percent of its salaried workforce.
You can read the whole story here.
Now, it isn't that Sunoco is laying people off, it seems like most companies are doing this at an alarming rate. That can happen. With the recession (depression?) continuing, many more will sadly lose their jobs.
No, the thing about this story is Sunoco is laying 750 workers off despite bringing home $776 million in profit last year.
Think about that for a minute: $776 million ... profit ... in one year.
Yet, they justify laying people off because, as CEO Lynn Elsenhans said, "While the company has enjoyed several years of strong financial performance, we are now facing a different — and more difficult — economic reality. Like many other companies across a variety of industries, Sunoco is taking steps to remain competitive."
What, if the company only makes $600 million in profit this year it's going to go under. Maybe Elsenhans should get a reality check.
She's not the only one, spokesperson Thomas Golembeski (regurgitating the company line) said, "(We want) to reduce our cost structure to make us more competitive during one of the periodic cycles of the refinery business.The outlook has changed significantly. We are in or are entering a downturn in the refining business."
OK, once again: $776 million ... profit ... in one year.
Or in another way, IT'S A FREAKIN' JOKE.
By the by, when Elsenhans took over as Sunoco CEO in July, the Wall Street Journal reported she will receive an initial salary of $1.24 million and a onetime grant of restricted share units equal in value to $5 million, the company said.
These companies (meaning the board of directors and the CEO) need to be held accountable for this. They need more than a slap on the wrist.
Somebody has to do something. Maybe some letters would help:
Send them to:
Sunoco Inc
1735 Market Street
Suite LL Philadelphia, PA 19103-7583
Then again, maybe getting mad isn't enough.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, March 16, 2009
Friday, March 13, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Madness weekend
Good Morning and welcome to the real beginning of March Madness!
There are a lot of college basketball games this weekend worth watching. The Big East Tournament leads the viewing choice from this end, but there are fans of the ACC, Big 12, Big Ten and the rest who will be tuning in. Surely, there will be a lot of great games, great shots, great stories and fun times.
While we look forward to the announcment of the NCAA Men's Basketball tournament playing field on Sunday, there's plenty of other 'madness' going on out there.
The stock market, for instance. All last week and the beginning of this week we watched as stockes sunk lower, there were more layoffs and doomsday was around the corner.
Then, suddenly, stocks jumped back up and then jumped again. Horray. Let's go out and spend again, the darkness is lifting.
Then again, all it's going to take is one company to say things aren't so rosy here and, boom, there goes the stock market again.
Maybe if we ignored the stock market, it would flatten out. Maybe we are too focused on money. Maybe somebody can tell me how West Virginia could beat Pitt last night.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
There are a lot of college basketball games this weekend worth watching. The Big East Tournament leads the viewing choice from this end, but there are fans of the ACC, Big 12, Big Ten and the rest who will be tuning in. Surely, there will be a lot of great games, great shots, great stories and fun times.
While we look forward to the announcment of the NCAA Men's Basketball tournament playing field on Sunday, there's plenty of other 'madness' going on out there.
The stock market, for instance. All last week and the beginning of this week we watched as stockes sunk lower, there were more layoffs and doomsday was around the corner.
Then, suddenly, stocks jumped back up and then jumped again. Horray. Let's go out and spend again, the darkness is lifting.
Then again, all it's going to take is one company to say things aren't so rosy here and, boom, there goes the stock market again.
Maybe if we ignored the stock market, it would flatten out. Maybe we are too focused on money. Maybe somebody can tell me how West Virginia could beat Pitt last night.
Sesame Street Layoffs - watch more funny videos
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Rise and Shine --- What's needed?
Good Morning and welcome to another Thursday!
So, the prevailing wind is it doesn't matter if local newspapers go away. They'll be plenty of 'journalists' to get the news out there, right? Somebody will give us the news from schools, townships, police, small business, etc. Well, check out the following:
This one from the Washington Post about how the police in the city of Baltimore are handling things now that the local newspaper has cut staff.
A couple of weeks ago, Gil Spencer of the Daily Times wrote about Upper Darby's Matt Steven, a blind basketball player. It's a heart-wrencher, worth reading again, especially with all the bad news out there.
This moring, on ESPN.com, Rick Reilly, late of Sports Illustrated, wrote the same story as if new. Now, maybe Reilly doesn't read delcotimes.com for his story ideas, maybe he does. It's just kind of interesting how things flow.
So, maybe the local newspaper takes a different look or different feel, but nobody else is reporting about Penn Wood's big basketball victory today.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, the prevailing wind is it doesn't matter if local newspapers go away. They'll be plenty of 'journalists' to get the news out there, right? Somebody will give us the news from schools, townships, police, small business, etc. Well, check out the following:
This one from the Washington Post about how the police in the city of Baltimore are handling things now that the local newspaper has cut staff.
A couple of weeks ago, Gil Spencer of the Daily Times wrote about Upper Darby's Matt Steven, a blind basketball player. It's a heart-wrencher, worth reading again, especially with all the bad news out there.
This moring, on ESPN.com, Rick Reilly, late of Sports Illustrated, wrote the same story as if new. Now, maybe Reilly doesn't read delcotimes.com for his story ideas, maybe he does. It's just kind of interesting how things flow.
So, maybe the local newspaper takes a different look or different feel, but nobody else is reporting about Penn Wood's big basketball victory today.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Musicals?
Good Morning and it's time to sing a song!
So, a couple of weeks ago at the Oscars, host Hugh Jackman did a little song and dance number celebrating the 'return' of the musicals to the movie-going public.
That's all fine and dandy for those who get to go to the movies, but what about those of us stuck with the same retread television shows night after night.
It's time for our favorite shows to break out in song.
Just think of the possiblities...
24: Jack Bauer, after shooting or torturing another terrorist, could put on his tap shoes and dance a jig. Each 'hour' of the show could hold a central theme.
Lost: With all the time travel and going back-and-forth to the island, there is a potential to span the whole history of music. Start with banging sticks on trees and advance all the way to electric guitars.
NFL: Hey, they already dance after making every play, so why not just add a couple of microphones. Each team could have their own touchdown song, field goal song, sack song. The possibilities are endless.
ER, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice: Having not ever seen one episode of any of these shows, the only thing that would bring me in is some music. Let's use some musicians as patients.
Law & Order, Cold Case, Without a Trace, Numbers, CSI: Cop shows are becoming mundane. There's a killing. An investigation and an arrest all in one hour. If the criminals could only sing the blues and the cops threw in some love songs, we'd have a reason to watch.
Wait a minute, all this has been tried before. Why didn't anybody watch?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, a couple of weeks ago at the Oscars, host Hugh Jackman did a little song and dance number celebrating the 'return' of the musicals to the movie-going public.
That's all fine and dandy for those who get to go to the movies, but what about those of us stuck with the same retread television shows night after night.
It's time for our favorite shows to break out in song.
Just think of the possiblities...
24: Jack Bauer, after shooting or torturing another terrorist, could put on his tap shoes and dance a jig. Each 'hour' of the show could hold a central theme.
Lost: With all the time travel and going back-and-forth to the island, there is a potential to span the whole history of music. Start with banging sticks on trees and advance all the way to electric guitars.
NFL: Hey, they already dance after making every play, so why not just add a couple of microphones. Each team could have their own touchdown song, field goal song, sack song. The possibilities are endless.
ER, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice: Having not ever seen one episode of any of these shows, the only thing that would bring me in is some music. Let's use some musicians as patients.
Law & Order, Cold Case, Without a Trace, Numbers, CSI: Cop shows are becoming mundane. There's a killing. An investigation and an arrest all in one hour. If the criminals could only sing the blues and the cops threw in some love songs, we'd have a reason to watch.
Wait a minute, all this has been tried before. Why didn't anybody watch?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Clone wars
Good Morning and welcome back to the Internet!
Meanwhile in the real world, President Barack Obama said yesterday he was against human cloning.
Wow. There's a stand. Human cloning is bad, says the president. No good can come of it.
Is that really true? Just think of the possibilities...
Abraham Lincoln: Wouldn't a new, modern version of a person many believe was the greatest leader in U.S. history be a good thing? Who better to get the U.S. out of the class civil war that's ongoing. Then again, we would have a new president.
Jesus: Great philosopher. Great public speaker. What could go wrong?
Jim Varney: Who hasn't been jonesing for a new 'Earnest' movie? Talk about getting everybody out of a funk.
Lassie: A good dog who can save little boys from all kinds of hazards like getting lost in the woods, falling down holes and being swept away in giant rivers. OK. Lassie's not human, but he (she?) seemed so human in the movies.
Charlton Heston: The apes will never be able to take over after the war if Chuck has his way.
Tiger Woods: Since we would all like to play golf like Tiger, why not have an army of Tigers who could teach golf to the rest of us. One lesson and you'll never hit the windmill again.
Mickey Rourke: What? He was already cloned?
Then again, maybe President Obama is right. Maybe it could go wrong...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Meanwhile in the real world, President Barack Obama said yesterday he was against human cloning.
Wow. There's a stand. Human cloning is bad, says the president. No good can come of it.
Is that really true? Just think of the possibilities...
Abraham Lincoln: Wouldn't a new, modern version of a person many believe was the greatest leader in U.S. history be a good thing? Who better to get the U.S. out of the class civil war that's ongoing. Then again, we would have a new president.
Jesus: Great philosopher. Great public speaker. What could go wrong?
Jim Varney: Who hasn't been jonesing for a new 'Earnest' movie? Talk about getting everybody out of a funk.
Lassie: A good dog who can save little boys from all kinds of hazards like getting lost in the woods, falling down holes and being swept away in giant rivers. OK. Lassie's not human, but he (she?) seemed so human in the movies.
Charlton Heston: The apes will never be able to take over after the war if Chuck has his way.
Tiger Woods: Since we would all like to play golf like Tiger, why not have an army of Tigers who could teach golf to the rest of us. One lesson and you'll never hit the windmill again.
Mickey Rourke: What? He was already cloned?
Then again, maybe President Obama is right. Maybe it could go wrong...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, March 9, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Spring ahead
Good Morning and welcome to a new week!
It's hard to believe just one week ago we were digging out from the biggest snowstorm of winter. Now, with the exception of those giant hills in shopping centers, there is no snow. Sounds pretty good.
Speaking of weather, those warm days over the weekend sent the mind racing to the best rite of spring, baseball. Grab the gloves. Rough up the ball. Pick up the bat. While those high-priced players are enjoying the Florida weather, the real future of the game was being played on muddy lawns and driveways this weekend.
Sure, there were plenty of basketball games and the sound of bouncing balls as well, but spring means baseball. It's kind of interesting how the change in seasons bring certain things to mind.
Spring is baseball. Summer is swimming. Fall is walking. Winter is, well, winter is something we all have to get through.
While it's not going to be as warm throughout the week, it's not going to be freezing either. Time to start thinking about that garden.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
It's hard to believe just one week ago we were digging out from the biggest snowstorm of winter. Now, with the exception of those giant hills in shopping centers, there is no snow. Sounds pretty good.
Speaking of weather, those warm days over the weekend sent the mind racing to the best rite of spring, baseball. Grab the gloves. Rough up the ball. Pick up the bat. While those high-priced players are enjoying the Florida weather, the real future of the game was being played on muddy lawns and driveways this weekend.
Sure, there were plenty of basketball games and the sound of bouncing balls as well, but spring means baseball. It's kind of interesting how the change in seasons bring certain things to mind.
Spring is baseball. Summer is swimming. Fall is walking. Winter is, well, winter is something we all have to get through.
While it's not going to be as warm throughout the week, it's not going to be freezing either. Time to start thinking about that garden.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, March 6, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Goofy times
Good Morning out there and welcome to the weekend!
Think we have it bad? It appears a woman in Mecca was arrested for driving a car.
Now, it would be understandable if the woman was up around 80-years old, but she was in her 20s. So, next time somebody tries to tell you we are behind the times, tell them this story. Sure, there's a lot to do in this country and, truth be told, there are probably enough neanderthals around here that are cheering this story. Still, to quote a great philosopher: 'Can't we all just get along.'
Meanwhile, there is a big entertainment story out there today that the stars of the TV show 'Seinfeld' will reunite on an HBO show.
Having barely seen any 'Seinfeld' episodes, who really cares? Apparently a lot of people thought the show was funny, but it's been off the air for plenty of time. Unless there's going to be an 'A-Team' reunion, keep old TV stars in reruns.
One other thing to think about as the sun shines this weekend, Michael Jackson is apparently playing his last show in London. Tickets are selling out quicker than Wing Bowl. So, that just goes to show you all about the state of music and the mentality of Philadelphia.
Finally...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Think we have it bad? It appears a woman in Mecca was arrested for driving a car.
Now, it would be understandable if the woman was up around 80-years old, but she was in her 20s. So, next time somebody tries to tell you we are behind the times, tell them this story. Sure, there's a lot to do in this country and, truth be told, there are probably enough neanderthals around here that are cheering this story. Still, to quote a great philosopher: 'Can't we all just get along.'
Meanwhile, there is a big entertainment story out there today that the stars of the TV show 'Seinfeld' will reunite on an HBO show.
Having barely seen any 'Seinfeld' episodes, who really cares? Apparently a lot of people thought the show was funny, but it's been off the air for plenty of time. Unless there's going to be an 'A-Team' reunion, keep old TV stars in reruns.
One other thing to think about as the sun shines this weekend, Michael Jackson is apparently playing his last show in London. Tickets are selling out quicker than Wing Bowl. So, that just goes to show you all about the state of music and the mentality of Philadelphia.
Finally...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Tattoo you
Good Morning and welcome to the real world!
Well, not the real world, but the world or ... whatever.
So, today we have this story about the big controversy surrounding something called tattoo barbie
Actually, it's just a regular Barbie doll with tattoo stickers. Where's the fun in that? How about just packing a little needle and some ink in with the doll and let the kids have real fun.
Now, I always found the idea of tattooing kind of strange. Some people like it and that's fine with them. There are certainly some neat looking ones out there, but what happens when you get older and those tattoos are sagging along with everything else.
Well, all you need is the Internet to find out. Here you go. Just finish breakfast first.
Still, why would people be up in arms about a tattoo barbie. People, it's just a doll. It doesn't mean your little Susie is going to run out to the Ink Spot and get some, well, ink. Much ado about nothing.
By the way, the dollar store has some pretty cool temporary tattoos so you can join in on the fun.
Barbie, by the way, is quite annoying.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, not the real world, but the world or ... whatever.
So, today we have this story about the big controversy surrounding something called tattoo barbie
Actually, it's just a regular Barbie doll with tattoo stickers. Where's the fun in that? How about just packing a little needle and some ink in with the doll and let the kids have real fun.
Now, I always found the idea of tattooing kind of strange. Some people like it and that's fine with them. There are certainly some neat looking ones out there, but what happens when you get older and those tattoos are sagging along with everything else.
Well, all you need is the Internet to find out. Here you go. Just finish breakfast first.
Still, why would people be up in arms about a tattoo barbie. People, it's just a doll. It doesn't mean your little Susie is going to run out to the Ink Spot and get some, well, ink. Much ado about nothing.
By the way, the dollar store has some pretty cool temporary tattoos so you can join in on the fun.
Barbie, by the way, is quite annoying.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Drive thru madness
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
Kind of calm around here this week (even with a big snow storm), although we'll take calm after last week's craziness.
Speaking of crazy, check out this story about a woman who called 911 when her local McDonald's ran out of Chicken McNuggets.
Now, it might be a little disappointing when you roll into a fast-food place and find out they are out of their heart-clogging specialty, but, calling the police? What are they going to do, run out, kill a chicken, over process it, fry it up and get your McNuggets?
It was only last year when this nutball called 911 to complain about his Subway sandwich.
Really, if it comes to a point where the food place isn't providing what you want, maybe you should go somewhere else.
Don't have McNuggets? I'm out of here.
Bad sandwich? Forget Subway, where's the nearest Wawa.
Or better yet, stop eating the stuff. Take it as a sign. Try an avocado.
Hey, you can probably even fry it. Then again, that might not be enough for some people:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Kind of calm around here this week (even with a big snow storm), although we'll take calm after last week's craziness.
Speaking of crazy, check out this story about a woman who called 911 when her local McDonald's ran out of Chicken McNuggets.
Now, it might be a little disappointing when you roll into a fast-food place and find out they are out of their heart-clogging specialty, but, calling the police? What are they going to do, run out, kill a chicken, over process it, fry it up and get your McNuggets?
It was only last year when this nutball called 911 to complain about his Subway sandwich.
Really, if it comes to a point where the food place isn't providing what you want, maybe you should go somewhere else.
Don't have McNuggets? I'm out of here.
Bad sandwich? Forget Subway, where's the nearest Wawa.
Or better yet, stop eating the stuff. Take it as a sign. Try an avocado.
Hey, you can probably even fry it. Then again, that might not be enough for some people:
Drag Queens vs. McDonald's Employees - watch more funny videos
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Rise and Shine --- In like a lion
Good Morning and welcome to the Yukon!
Think about it, how can we get through the whole winter virtually unscathed, then hit March, and be buried under snow and ice?
It seems to happen every year. Maybe the powers that be should move winter back a few weeks. Then again, maybe we should be paying more attention to Punxsutawney Phil. After all, Pennsylvania's most famous groundhog told us there was going to be six more weeks of winter.
How about if we just use animals to predict the future? This could work on so many levels:
Economy: Let's use a parrot to fix the economy. Show the parrot a list of businesses with their hands out and let the bird give them its own version of a bailout.
Election: Take two presidential candidates and one golden lab. Whichever person the dog runs to is the 'Leader of the Free World' The other just stays in the Senate.
Dinner: Build a maze with two exits. Put a bowl of spaghetti at one exit and a sandwich on the other. Toss in a mouse and let it find dinner.
Friends: If your cat doesn't like your friends are they really friends?
Homework: Really let the dog eat the homework. This is favored by school children everywhere.
Movies: Take a finch to the video store. The movie it lands on can't be all that bad. Unless, of course, the finch is a Julia Roberts fan.
Lottery numbers: It takes a chicken, some corn and a ticket. Mix it all together and you have the winning numbers.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Think about it, how can we get through the whole winter virtually unscathed, then hit March, and be buried under snow and ice?
It seems to happen every year. Maybe the powers that be should move winter back a few weeks. Then again, maybe we should be paying more attention to Punxsutawney Phil. After all, Pennsylvania's most famous groundhog told us there was going to be six more weeks of winter.
How about if we just use animals to predict the future? This could work on so many levels:
Economy: Let's use a parrot to fix the economy. Show the parrot a list of businesses with their hands out and let the bird give them its own version of a bailout.
Election: Take two presidential candidates and one golden lab. Whichever person the dog runs to is the 'Leader of the Free World' The other just stays in the Senate.
Dinner: Build a maze with two exits. Put a bowl of spaghetti at one exit and a sandwich on the other. Toss in a mouse and let it find dinner.
Friends: If your cat doesn't like your friends are they really friends?
Homework: Really let the dog eat the homework. This is favored by school children everywhere.
Movies: Take a finch to the video store. The movie it lands on can't be all that bad. Unless, of course, the finch is a Julia Roberts fan.
Lottery numbers: It takes a chicken, some corn and a ticket. Mix it all together and you have the winning numbers.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, March 2, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Snow on you
Good Morning and welcome to a late winter wonderland!
Wouldn't it have been nice if this snow happened in say, December, when we all want snow. Now that we are into March and the Phillies are playing games, it's time for sun and warm. Take this snow and shovel it.
Speaking of taking something and shoveling it, we wake up today to news the government is going to pump $30 billion more into AIG. Now, this is after the company had 'borrowed' $38 billion just a few months ago. Of course, they 'borrowed' it in a sense that it will never get paid back. Those running the company into the ground will get fat umbrellas (just look around) and we will be stuck holding the bill with higher taxes.
Just imagine how much good that $68 billion could do outside of AIG. We could feed and treat millions of sick children. We could fix our roads. We could fix our people.
Instead, we keep throwing money into these Wall Street companies and they keep squandering it.
But, hey, the snow looks nice and at least we aren't these guys:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wouldn't it have been nice if this snow happened in say, December, when we all want snow. Now that we are into March and the Phillies are playing games, it's time for sun and warm. Take this snow and shovel it.
Speaking of taking something and shoveling it, we wake up today to news the government is going to pump $30 billion more into AIG. Now, this is after the company had 'borrowed' $38 billion just a few months ago. Of course, they 'borrowed' it in a sense that it will never get paid back. Those running the company into the ground will get fat umbrellas (just look around) and we will be stuck holding the bill with higher taxes.
Just imagine how much good that $68 billion could do outside of AIG. We could feed and treat millions of sick children. We could fix our roads. We could fix our people.
Instead, we keep throwing money into these Wall Street companies and they keep squandering it.
But, hey, the snow looks nice and at least we aren't these guys:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, February 27, 2009
Rise and Shine --- You gotta laugh
Good Morning and welcome to the end of the week!
And, what a week it's been. Sometimes you need a break from reality so...
Why did the cookie go to the doctor? … Because he felt crummy.
The farmer’s son was returning from the market with the crate of chicken’s his father had entrusted to him, when all of a sudden the box fell and broke open. Chickens scurried off in different directions, but the determined boy walked all over the neighborhood scooping up the wayward birds and returning them to the repaired crate. Hoping he had found them all, the boy reluctantly returned home, expecting the worst.
“Pa, the chickens got loose,” the boy confessed sadly, “but I managed to find all twelve of them.”
“Well, you did real good, son,” the farmer beamed. “You left with seven.”
After losing another tooth, young-old Timmy became more curious about the mysterious tooth fairy.
Finally putting two and two together, he came right out and asked his mother, “Mom, are you the tooth fairy?”
Assuming he was old enough to hear the truth, she replied, “Yes Timmy, I am.”
Timmy seemed to take this news quite well.
But as he headed for the door, he slowly turned back toward his mother with a curious look on his face and said, “Wait a minute mom. How do you get into the other kids’ houses?”
Knock Knock
Who's There?
Cargoes
Cargoes Who?
Cargoes Beep Beep !
There are two muffins in the oven.
One says "Man! Its burning up in here!"
The other one says "Hey look! A talking Muffin!!!"
Or this...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
And, what a week it's been. Sometimes you need a break from reality so...
Why did the cookie go to the doctor? … Because he felt crummy.
The farmer’s son was returning from the market with the crate of chicken’s his father had entrusted to him, when all of a sudden the box fell and broke open. Chickens scurried off in different directions, but the determined boy walked all over the neighborhood scooping up the wayward birds and returning them to the repaired crate. Hoping he had found them all, the boy reluctantly returned home, expecting the worst.
“Pa, the chickens got loose,” the boy confessed sadly, “but I managed to find all twelve of them.”
“Well, you did real good, son,” the farmer beamed. “You left with seven.”
After losing another tooth, young-old Timmy became more curious about the mysterious tooth fairy.
Finally putting two and two together, he came right out and asked his mother, “Mom, are you the tooth fairy?”
Assuming he was old enough to hear the truth, she replied, “Yes Timmy, I am.”
Timmy seemed to take this news quite well.
But as he headed for the door, he slowly turned back toward his mother with a curious look on his face and said, “Wait a minute mom. How do you get into the other kids’ houses?”
Knock Knock
Who's There?
Cargoes
Cargoes Who?
Cargoes Beep Beep !
There are two muffins in the oven.
One says "Man! Its burning up in here!"
The other one says "Hey look! A talking Muffin!!!"
Or this...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Questions
Good Morning and welcome back to the Internet!
OK, so we've been running a daily poll on www.delcotimes.com for the last few months. Sometimes, the question gets a lot of answers, sometimes (a lot of times) there aren't many responses.
If the Eagles are somehow involved in the question, people are ready to punch their opinion. If it's about the economy, well, we've all been beat up enough.
Now, coming up with a question every day is not the best part of this job. In fact, there are many times I just completely forget to get it done. After asking those around here for some ideas for questions and getting none (something about being too overworked or some other made up excuse), I'm throwing it out to the Web readers.
What's a good question to ask? What's on your mind you want others to weigh in on? I need a question and three or four (or five) multiple choice answers.
For the sake of accounting, here are some examples of bad questions:
1. Who will win Best Sound Editing at the Oscars?
2. How many hours a day do you spend looking at Internet porn?
3. Is George W. Bush the greatest president ever?
4. What would you shove in your ear?
5. Have you ever heard of instinctual eating?
6. Does it hurt if you hit your thumb with a hammer?
7. How long does it take to tie your shoes?
8. Should men be allowed to wear skirts to work?
9. McDonald's Hamburgers are...
10. When will the Eagles win a Super Bowl?
So, stay away from them, but everything else is fair game. Send your questions and answers to onlinedelco@gmail.com
To help you think, I offer this:
OK, so we've been running a daily poll on www.delcotimes.com for the last few months. Sometimes, the question gets a lot of answers, sometimes (a lot of times) there aren't many responses.
If the Eagles are somehow involved in the question, people are ready to punch their opinion. If it's about the economy, well, we've all been beat up enough.
Now, coming up with a question every day is not the best part of this job. In fact, there are many times I just completely forget to get it done. After asking those around here for some ideas for questions and getting none (something about being too overworked or some other made up excuse), I'm throwing it out to the Web readers.
What's a good question to ask? What's on your mind you want others to weigh in on? I need a question and three or four (or five) multiple choice answers.
For the sake of accounting, here are some examples of bad questions:
1. Who will win Best Sound Editing at the Oscars?
2. How many hours a day do you spend looking at Internet porn?
3. Is George W. Bush the greatest president ever?
4. What would you shove in your ear?
5. Have you ever heard of instinctual eating?
6. Does it hurt if you hit your thumb with a hammer?
7. How long does it take to tie your shoes?
8. Should men be allowed to wear skirts to work?
9. McDonald's Hamburgers are...
10. When will the Eagles win a Super Bowl?
So, stay away from them, but everything else is fair game. Send your questions and answers to onlinedelco@gmail.com
To help you think, I offer this:
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Move to a monestary?
Good Morning and welcome to another interesting weekday!
Word out today is the Philadelphia Museum of Art is cutting staff. Word yesterday was major retailers (Target, Macys) saw sales fall so short of what was needed they are considering more cuts. Newspaper companies are in bankruptcy court. The auto industry is still falling like a rock even though the government gave them some free cash. AIG, which got $150 billion in government bailout money, wants more to stay afloat.
Meanwhile, we all go day-to-day hoping the sky doesn't fall, trying to find a solution that might not be there right now.
Then again, it might.
Here are a couple of ideas:
1. Start a community. Maybe those long-haired, freaky people of the '60s had a better idea. Get a bunch of people together, find a farm, grow your own food and live sustaining yourself. Here's one option: The Gaia Yoga Gardens in Hawaii.
2. Join a Monastery. All you have to do is study the teachings of Buddha. Find a monastery you like. Knock on the door. Sure, you have to give all this stuff up, but it might be peaceful.
Then again, maybe not:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Word out today is the Philadelphia Museum of Art is cutting staff. Word yesterday was major retailers (Target, Macys) saw sales fall so short of what was needed they are considering more cuts. Newspaper companies are in bankruptcy court. The auto industry is still falling like a rock even though the government gave them some free cash. AIG, which got $150 billion in government bailout money, wants more to stay afloat.
Meanwhile, we all go day-to-day hoping the sky doesn't fall, trying to find a solution that might not be there right now.
Then again, it might.
Here are a couple of ideas:
1. Start a community. Maybe those long-haired, freaky people of the '60s had a better idea. Get a bunch of people together, find a farm, grow your own food and live sustaining yourself. Here's one option: The Gaia Yoga Gardens in Hawaii.
2. Join a Monastery. All you have to do is study the teachings of Buddha. Find a monastery you like. Knock on the door. Sure, you have to give all this stuff up, but it might be peaceful.
Then again, maybe not:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Fat Tuesday
Good Morning and welcome to Fat Tuesday!
Of course, since we don't live in New Orleans and we don't have a big parade, it's just another excuse to eat a doughnut.
Sure, that might not be the most healthy way to get through the day, but it tastes darn good. Besides, if you can't get to New Orleans (or Brazil) why not feel a part of it by doing your own little part.
Then again, when you have three little ones running around, every day can be Mardi Gras. Just pull out the beads, make something to eat and, boom, instant parade. Add some fried, fat-laden, sugar-covered doughnuts and New Orleans will have nothing on us. Sounds like a plan.
Hey, we need all the celebrations we can get these days.
Here's a quick recipe for dinner:
Vegetarian Gumbo
7 cup okra, sliced in 1/2" pieces
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
3/4 cup oil (I use olive oil)
1 medium onion, minced
1 lg. bell pepper, minced
4 stalks celery, minced
3 tomatoes, diced
10 cup hot water (distilled, filtered, reverse osmosis)
1 Tbs. paprika
1 Tbs. salt (I only use 2 tsp.)
1 tsp. gumbo file powder (I use 2 T.)
1/4 tsp. cayenne
5 bay leaves
1 1/2 Tbs. thyme
Different types of dried mushrooms that have been rehydrated and sliced or chopped, rehydrated TVP, or tofu that has been browned in a little oil to give seafood type textures file to sprinkle on each bowl.
In a dry skillet, fry the okra until lightly browned, and set aside. This takes the slime out of the okra. In a seperate skillet, heat the oil and add the flour and stir constantly until it is a very dark brown (almost burnt). Don't be nervous, a very dark roux is the secret to good gumbo.
When the roux is dark enough, immediately add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and tomatoes, and saute for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the okra, water, and spices, bring to a boil, lower to medium heat, and cook for 45 minutes. Hot water mixes more easily with the roux.
Serve over brown rice, and sprinkle each bowl with about 1/4 tsp gumbo file. Serves 6-8.
Of course, since we don't live in New Orleans and we don't have a big parade, it's just another excuse to eat a doughnut.
Sure, that might not be the most healthy way to get through the day, but it tastes darn good. Besides, if you can't get to New Orleans (or Brazil) why not feel a part of it by doing your own little part.
Then again, when you have three little ones running around, every day can be Mardi Gras. Just pull out the beads, make something to eat and, boom, instant parade. Add some fried, fat-laden, sugar-covered doughnuts and New Orleans will have nothing on us. Sounds like a plan.
Hey, we need all the celebrations we can get these days.
Here's a quick recipe for dinner:
Vegetarian Gumbo
7 cup okra, sliced in 1/2" pieces
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
3/4 cup oil (I use olive oil)
1 medium onion, minced
1 lg. bell pepper, minced
4 stalks celery, minced
3 tomatoes, diced
10 cup hot water (distilled, filtered, reverse osmosis)
1 Tbs. paprika
1 Tbs. salt (I only use 2 tsp.)
1 tsp. gumbo file powder (I use 2 T.)
1/4 tsp. cayenne
5 bay leaves
1 1/2 Tbs. thyme
Different types of dried mushrooms that have been rehydrated and sliced or chopped, rehydrated TVP, or tofu that has been browned in a little oil to give seafood type textures file to sprinkle on each bowl.
In a dry skillet, fry the okra until lightly browned, and set aside. This takes the slime out of the okra. In a seperate skillet, heat the oil and add the flour and stir constantly until it is a very dark brown (almost burnt). Don't be nervous, a very dark roux is the secret to good gumbo.
When the roux is dark enough, immediately add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and tomatoes, and saute for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the okra, water, and spices, bring to a boil, lower to medium heat, and cook for 45 minutes. Hot water mixes more easily with the roux.
Serve over brown rice, and sprinkle each bowl with about 1/4 tsp gumbo file. Serves 6-8.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, February 23, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Late night Hollywood
Good Morning and welcome to the bleary eyed!
A long weekend was tipped off by a long night of the Oscars. The question here is how to do you explain all these things. Things that don't seem to make much sense.
First, you have to look at the sun, the clouds and the stars. See them shine and know there is more out there than just a blade of grass.
Then, make the best of any situation you can. Go to work. Pay the bills. Play with the children. Eat good meals. Read books. See movies. Watch television.
That is, unless the television is tuned to the Oscars. Sure, there are some good speeches and some interesting fashions, but, for the most part, the Oscars are boring TV.
In a world where GM is laying off 47,000 after getting an influx of government money, I want to see song and dance, not a costume designer rattling off a list of names.
In a world where we are stuck with an unending war (and unending wars all over the globe), we need escapism. This year's Oscar show gave us some, but was still bogged down in slower than slow moments.
Also, somebody please tell me why the show needs to stretch on longer than three hours.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
A long weekend was tipped off by a long night of the Oscars. The question here is how to do you explain all these things. Things that don't seem to make much sense.
First, you have to look at the sun, the clouds and the stars. See them shine and know there is more out there than just a blade of grass.
Then, make the best of any situation you can. Go to work. Pay the bills. Play with the children. Eat good meals. Read books. See movies. Watch television.
That is, unless the television is tuned to the Oscars. Sure, there are some good speeches and some interesting fashions, but, for the most part, the Oscars are boring TV.
In a world where GM is laying off 47,000 after getting an influx of government money, I want to see song and dance, not a costume designer rattling off a list of names.
In a world where we are stuck with an unending war (and unending wars all over the globe), we need escapism. This year's Oscar show gave us some, but was still bogged down in slower than slow moments.
Also, somebody please tell me why the show needs to stretch on longer than three hours.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, February 20, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Trailing the Oscars
Good Morning and welcome to the end of the week!
So, after sitting through 15 minutes of movie trailers, it's time to make those Oscar picks. Now, granted, it may not be the most scientific way to figure out the best movie, but it beats shelling out $10 for every ticket.
So, here we go:
Best Picture: MILK The preview has a lot of action and music. It also holds the best line of they year: "You have to give them hope." That's something we all need in this day and age.
Best Animated Feature: WALL-E Not only does the trailer give you a great look at the story, it also makes you want to see the movie. When it opens. The first day. Lots of fun.
Best Director: FROST/NIXON Whenever you get a chance to vote for Opie Cunningham, take it.
Beat Actor: Sean Penn in Milk. See above.
Best Actress: Melissa Leo, Frozen River Never heard of the movie before watching the trailer, but it appears to show a story that could be any one of us.
Supporting Actor: Robert Downey Jr. in Tropic Thunder Sure, Heath Ledger is probably going to get the award, but, in three minutes, Downey gives the performance of a lifetime.
Supporting Actress: Viola Davis, Doubt Just a powerful performance.
Now, the trailer of the year:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, after sitting through 15 minutes of movie trailers, it's time to make those Oscar picks. Now, granted, it may not be the most scientific way to figure out the best movie, but it beats shelling out $10 for every ticket.
So, here we go:
Best Picture: MILK The preview has a lot of action and music. It also holds the best line of they year: "You have to give them hope." That's something we all need in this day and age.
Best Animated Feature: WALL-E Not only does the trailer give you a great look at the story, it also makes you want to see the movie. When it opens. The first day. Lots of fun.
Best Director: FROST/NIXON Whenever you get a chance to vote for Opie Cunningham, take it.
Beat Actor: Sean Penn in Milk. See above.
Best Actress: Melissa Leo, Frozen River Never heard of the movie before watching the trailer, but it appears to show a story that could be any one of us.
Supporting Actor: Robert Downey Jr. in Tropic Thunder Sure, Heath Ledger is probably going to get the award, but, in three minutes, Downey gives the performance of a lifetime.
Supporting Actress: Viola Davis, Doubt Just a powerful performance.
Now, the trailer of the year:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Rise and Shine ---- Oscar, bloscar
Good Morning and welcome to Thursday!
So, the Oscars are this Sunday. Make sure you enter our Oscar contest HERE. The winner gets a $50 gift certificate to Stephen's on Main Street in Media. Not only that, but you will get a personal phone call from Daily Times entertainment guru Jim Atkins.
Anyway, back to the Oscars. Do the Academy Awards really mean anything any more?
Having not seen any of the films nominated for best picture (the only movies I've seen this year are Wall-E and Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Get the picture?), I wonder if they are the really the best films of the year. Sure, they are most likely pretty good. I hope to see most when they roll out on DVD, but none can be considered 'big hits.'
Yeah, in these times we are scrimping on entertainment, but they haven't been able to hold a ticket-sale flag to some other movies out there.
All of the Oscar nominated films are still in theaters. Only 'Slumdog Millionaire' has been able to crack the Top 10 in ticket sales this past week.
Not to say movies like 'Friday the 13th,' 'Paul Blart: Mall Cop' or 'The Pink Panther 2' are great movies, but they are what people want to see.
Yeah, we all agree some movies are better than others, but if nobody's watching does it really matter?
By the way, since all you gentle readers are sitting on the edge of your seats, I'll pick the Oscar winners after watching the trailers only in Friday's Rise and Shine.
Here are some funny moments from the Oscars:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, the Oscars are this Sunday. Make sure you enter our Oscar contest HERE. The winner gets a $50 gift certificate to Stephen's on Main Street in Media. Not only that, but you will get a personal phone call from Daily Times entertainment guru Jim Atkins.
Anyway, back to the Oscars. Do the Academy Awards really mean anything any more?
Having not seen any of the films nominated for best picture (the only movies I've seen this year are Wall-E and Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Get the picture?), I wonder if they are the really the best films of the year. Sure, they are most likely pretty good. I hope to see most when they roll out on DVD, but none can be considered 'big hits.'
Yeah, in these times we are scrimping on entertainment, but they haven't been able to hold a ticket-sale flag to some other movies out there.
All of the Oscar nominated films are still in theaters. Only 'Slumdog Millionaire' has been able to crack the Top 10 in ticket sales this past week.
Not to say movies like 'Friday the 13th,' 'Paul Blart: Mall Cop' or 'The Pink Panther 2' are great movies, but they are what people want to see.
Yeah, we all agree some movies are better than others, but if nobody's watching does it really matter?
By the way, since all you gentle readers are sitting on the edge of your seats, I'll pick the Oscar winners after watching the trailers only in Friday's Rise and Shine.
Here are some funny moments from the Oscars:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Excuses, excuses
Good Morning and welcome back to the world of excuses!
So, New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez said he was 'young and stupid' when he was injected with steroids by his cousin. Meanwhile, General Motors had the gall to ask for billions in government aid while also saying they would cut 47,000 jobs. Chrysler also asked for the money and said they would cut 3,000 jobs. In California, the Governator sent out 10,000 layoff notices. Here in Pennsylvania, Gov. Rendell is talking state layoffs, cutting school funding and cutting funding for police.
There are, of course, plenty of excuses for all of this.
So, it's time for the rest of us to use these excuses. Just robbed a bank, hey 'I was young and stupid. Sorry.'
Can't pay the credit card bills? 'I need government aid and will quit my job. Just give me the money.'
Need good schools, forget about it. We don't need no education. There aren't going to be any jobs anyway.
How about this: Don't give any more money to big companies until they show they are willing to help out the country as a whole. If GM cuts one job, tell the big-wigs in the big office to pay for everything. If the state can't function, tell the Governor and state legislature to get to work until it can.
Enough is enough.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez said he was 'young and stupid' when he was injected with steroids by his cousin. Meanwhile, General Motors had the gall to ask for billions in government aid while also saying they would cut 47,000 jobs. Chrysler also asked for the money and said they would cut 3,000 jobs. In California, the Governator sent out 10,000 layoff notices. Here in Pennsylvania, Gov. Rendell is talking state layoffs, cutting school funding and cutting funding for police.
There are, of course, plenty of excuses for all of this.
So, it's time for the rest of us to use these excuses. Just robbed a bank, hey 'I was young and stupid. Sorry.'
Can't pay the credit card bills? 'I need government aid and will quit my job. Just give me the money.'
Need good schools, forget about it. We don't need no education. There aren't going to be any jobs anyway.
How about this: Don't give any more money to big companies until they show they are willing to help out the country as a whole. If GM cuts one job, tell the big-wigs in the big office to pay for everything. If the state can't function, tell the Governor and state legislature to get to work until it can.
Enough is enough.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Cabin fever
Good Morning and welcome to another in a long line of cold winter days!
Yeah, that's not old news. It's winter. It's cold. We know that. Although today is supposed to reach the 40s, so there's help for us yet.
Speaking of winter, you can tell it's getting too long by seeing (or hearing) how children handle February.
In short, it's like a horror movie only the crazy, masked madman has been transformed into three seemingly sweet children.
The day (talking weekend here, school days are another story) usually starts out OK. Everybody takes their time getting up. Well, make that around 7 a.m., the time during the week when the wake-up call comes for school. Of course, school days it's like pulling teeth. Weekends, it's all energy and bouncing around.
So, after a quick breakfast, the craziness begins. The yelling, the running around, the throwing of things, the arguing, the fighting and, finally, the meltdown.
Having killed about an hour, the cycle repeats.
Now, it would be easy to send them to watch television or play video games, but there are other things that need to be done (like cleaning rooms). Besides, like the commercial says, 'Too much TV melts the brain.' Although, it is quite tempting.
The calming process doesn't start until after dinner. OK, it's a lie, there is no calming process.
No wonder spring looks so good at least then it can all happen outside.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Yeah, that's not old news. It's winter. It's cold. We know that. Although today is supposed to reach the 40s, so there's help for us yet.
Speaking of winter, you can tell it's getting too long by seeing (or hearing) how children handle February.
In short, it's like a horror movie only the crazy, masked madman has been transformed into three seemingly sweet children.
The day (talking weekend here, school days are another story) usually starts out OK. Everybody takes their time getting up. Well, make that around 7 a.m., the time during the week when the wake-up call comes for school. Of course, school days it's like pulling teeth. Weekends, it's all energy and bouncing around.
So, after a quick breakfast, the craziness begins. The yelling, the running around, the throwing of things, the arguing, the fighting and, finally, the meltdown.
Having killed about an hour, the cycle repeats.
Now, it would be easy to send them to watch television or play video games, but there are other things that need to be done (like cleaning rooms). Besides, like the commercial says, 'Too much TV melts the brain.' Although, it is quite tempting.
The calming process doesn't start until after dinner. OK, it's a lie, there is no calming process.
No wonder spring looks so good at least then it can all happen outside.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, February 16, 2009
Rise and Shine --- President's Day?
Good Morning and welcome to another mid-winter holiday!
Or something like that. Back in the day, President's Day, I'm sure was a big day. Actually, it was Washington's Birthday. Then somebody thought to honor Abe Lincoln, who's birthday was last week. So, instead of having two 'holiday's' within a week, we've combined Washington and Lincoln into 'President's Day.'
For those who really don't know much about the 'holiday' they might think it is to honor all the presidents. While some are surely worth honoring, we don't really need a George Bush Day anytime soon.
Still, with the exception of schools being off and federal workers getting a holiday, what does 'President's Day' really mean.
Mostly, it's a chance for our battered retailers to hold 'President Day Sales.' Every retailer has a 'President's Day Sale.' You can get mattresses, coats, shoes, diapers, food. Anything you want 'on sale.' Really, though, these sales are just repackaging of prices already in effect. So, maybe you'll head to the mall today or maybe you'll go out and cut down a cherry tree.
How about this for President's Day: Let's all call our elected officials and make the accountable for the decisions they make. Then we can all put on wigs and stove pipe hats and read the Constitution.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Or something like that. Back in the day, President's Day, I'm sure was a big day. Actually, it was Washington's Birthday. Then somebody thought to honor Abe Lincoln, who's birthday was last week. So, instead of having two 'holiday's' within a week, we've combined Washington and Lincoln into 'President's Day.'
For those who really don't know much about the 'holiday' they might think it is to honor all the presidents. While some are surely worth honoring, we don't really need a George Bush Day anytime soon.
Still, with the exception of schools being off and federal workers getting a holiday, what does 'President's Day' really mean.
Mostly, it's a chance for our battered retailers to hold 'President Day Sales.' Every retailer has a 'President's Day Sale.' You can get mattresses, coats, shoes, diapers, food. Anything you want 'on sale.' Really, though, these sales are just repackaging of prices already in effect. So, maybe you'll head to the mall today or maybe you'll go out and cut down a cherry tree.
How about this for President's Day: Let's all call our elected officials and make the accountable for the decisions they make. Then we can all put on wigs and stove pipe hats and read the Constitution.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, February 13, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Happy Valentines Day (Early?)
Good Morning and welcome to an early Valentines Day gift!
Many ask for gifts. Some want flowers. Others need jewelry. Then there's the special one who doesn't care about material things. That's a keeper, so I offer up this to my favorite library lover:
O my Luve's like a red, red rose
That's newly sprung in June;
O my Luve's like the melodie
That's sweetly played in tune. --- Robert Burns
I have heard the song of the blossoms and the old chant of the sea,
And seen strange lands from under the arched white sails of ships;
But the loveliest things of beauty God ever has showed to me
Are her voice, and her hair, and eyes, and the dear red curve of her lips. --- John Masefield
My heart aches, and a drowsy numbness pains
My sense, as though of hemlock I had drunk,
Or emptied some dull opiate to the drains
One minute past, and Lethe-wards had sunk:
'Tis not through envy of thy happy lot,
But being too happy in thine happiness,--
That thou, light-winged Dryad of the trees
In some melodious plot
Of beechen green, and shadows numberless,
Singest of summer in full-throated ease. --- John Keats
Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate.
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,
And summer's lease hath all too short a date.
Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines,
And often is his gold complexion dimmed;
And every fair from fair sometime declines,
By chance, or nature's changing course untrimmed.
But thy eternal summer shall not fade
Nor lose possession of that fair thou ow'st;
Nor shall death brag thou wand'rest in his shade,
When in eternal lines to time thou grow'st,
So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,
So long lives this, and this gives life to thee. --- William Shakespeare
It lies not in our power to love or hate,
For will in us is overruled by fate.
When two are stripped, long ere the course begin,
We wish that one should love, the other win;
And one especially do we affect
Of two gold ingots, like in each respect:
The reason no man knows, let it suffice,
What we behold is censured by our eyes.
Where both deliberate, the love is slight:
Who ever loved, that loved not at first sight? --- Christopher Marlowe
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Many ask for gifts. Some want flowers. Others need jewelry. Then there's the special one who doesn't care about material things. That's a keeper, so I offer up this to my favorite library lover:
O my Luve's like a red, red rose
That's newly sprung in June;
O my Luve's like the melodie
That's sweetly played in tune. --- Robert Burns
I have heard the song of the blossoms and the old chant of the sea,
And seen strange lands from under the arched white sails of ships;
But the loveliest things of beauty God ever has showed to me
Are her voice, and her hair, and eyes, and the dear red curve of her lips. --- John Masefield
My heart aches, and a drowsy numbness pains
My sense, as though of hemlock I had drunk,
Or emptied some dull opiate to the drains
One minute past, and Lethe-wards had sunk:
'Tis not through envy of thy happy lot,
But being too happy in thine happiness,--
That thou, light-winged Dryad of the trees
In some melodious plot
Of beechen green, and shadows numberless,
Singest of summer in full-throated ease. --- John Keats
Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate.
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,
And summer's lease hath all too short a date.
Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines,
And often is his gold complexion dimmed;
And every fair from fair sometime declines,
By chance, or nature's changing course untrimmed.
But thy eternal summer shall not fade
Nor lose possession of that fair thou ow'st;
Nor shall death brag thou wand'rest in his shade,
When in eternal lines to time thou grow'st,
So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,
So long lives this, and this gives life to thee. --- William Shakespeare
It lies not in our power to love or hate,
For will in us is overruled by fate.
When two are stripped, long ere the course begin,
We wish that one should love, the other win;
And one especially do we affect
Of two gold ingots, like in each respect:
The reason no man knows, let it suffice,
What we behold is censured by our eyes.
Where both deliberate, the love is slight:
Who ever loved, that loved not at first sight? --- Christopher Marlowe
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Ripping the phone book
Good Morning and welcome back to the Internet!
In one of Steve Martin's funniest movies, 'The Jerk,' there is a scene where his character is over-the-top happy when the new phone book is delivered. He quickly scans, finds his name and feels like he now belongs.
These days, the phone book is more of a nuisance than a real tool. Everybody has a cell phone. The Internet offers a listing of any number you could possibly want and, if you aren't near a computer, just dial 411 to get connected.
So, why do we keep getting the phone book every year. Sure, there's a sense of the past when the thing ends up on the front steps. Maybe we take a quick look inside to see if there are any good coupons or menus (although both can be easily accessed on line).
Then what? It either goes on a back table, into a drawer or thrown out. Unless you are a circus performer and want to try to rip one in half, there has to be a better use.
So, here are the top five uses for a useless phone book:
1. Line a bird cage. Instead of using the newspaper, use the pages from the phone book. It adds a bit of color to your road and the pet's. Of course, keep buying the newspaper, just use it for something else (Fish wrapper? Do we wrap fish anymore?).
2. Make paper airplanes out of the pages. What child doesn't like to make paper airplanes? It's an easy couple of folds and, boom, a quick toy. Better yet, it's free. Which leads us to...
3. Make paper boats. Another quick, cheap toy that, with enough pages, will add years of enjoyment.
4. Donate it to the library. Hey, someday somebody might be doing a senior project on phone books. The more the merrier.
5. OK, there are only four alternate uses.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
In one of Steve Martin's funniest movies, 'The Jerk,' there is a scene where his character is over-the-top happy when the new phone book is delivered. He quickly scans, finds his name and feels like he now belongs.
These days, the phone book is more of a nuisance than a real tool. Everybody has a cell phone. The Internet offers a listing of any number you could possibly want and, if you aren't near a computer, just dial 411 to get connected.
So, why do we keep getting the phone book every year. Sure, there's a sense of the past when the thing ends up on the front steps. Maybe we take a quick look inside to see if there are any good coupons or menus (although both can be easily accessed on line).
Then what? It either goes on a back table, into a drawer or thrown out. Unless you are a circus performer and want to try to rip one in half, there has to be a better use.
So, here are the top five uses for a useless phone book:
1. Line a bird cage. Instead of using the newspaper, use the pages from the phone book. It adds a bit of color to your road and the pet's. Of course, keep buying the newspaper, just use it for something else (Fish wrapper? Do we wrap fish anymore?).
2. Make paper airplanes out of the pages. What child doesn't like to make paper airplanes? It's an easy couple of folds and, boom, a quick toy. Better yet, it's free. Which leads us to...
3. Make paper boats. Another quick, cheap toy that, with enough pages, will add years of enjoyment.
4. Donate it to the library. Hey, someday somebody might be doing a senior project on phone books. The more the merrier.
5. OK, there are only four alternate uses.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Come on get happy
Good Morning and welcome to another nice respite in a dark, dreary winter!
Yeah, the world's going down the river without a paddle. Those controlling our money are throwing it around like so much water and jobs are being cut at alarming rates.
Somehow, though, we have to make sure it doesn't get us down. We have to keep a bright outlook because if we don't, who will.
A day like today is going to make it much easier. The heat's not been going on as much this week and today we are going to have a day in the 70s. Sure, most of will be inside doing something, but just the thought of a nice, springlike day is enough to, well, put a spring in your step.
So, for one day anyway, forget the talking heads who are telling us how bad everything has become. Forget the spin being put out there. Forget the bills. Forget the schedules.
Here's a good story to read while taking that mental break. It's about a high school swimmer who was born without eyes, but won't let that stop him from getting in the pool.
Even if you can only do it for an hour, give it a try. Everything will become a bit brighter that way.
At least laugh for a minute:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Yeah, the world's going down the river without a paddle. Those controlling our money are throwing it around like so much water and jobs are being cut at alarming rates.
Somehow, though, we have to make sure it doesn't get us down. We have to keep a bright outlook because if we don't, who will.
A day like today is going to make it much easier. The heat's not been going on as much this week and today we are going to have a day in the 70s. Sure, most of will be inside doing something, but just the thought of a nice, springlike day is enough to, well, put a spring in your step.
So, for one day anyway, forget the talking heads who are telling us how bad everything has become. Forget the spin being put out there. Forget the bills. Forget the schedules.
Here's a good story to read while taking that mental break. It's about a high school swimmer who was born without eyes, but won't let that stop him from getting in the pool.
Even if you can only do it for an hour, give it a try. Everything will become a bit brighter that way.
At least laugh for a minute:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Rise and Shine --- The juice
Good Morning and welcome to a bright day!
So, this has undoubtedly happened to a lot out there (if there are really a lot out there). I woke up this morning with a massive headache and a feeling I didn't really sleep at all.
I kind of half walked through the morning routine. Took a shower, walked the dogs, got a couple of lunches together, came to work.
The strongest thing I have to stop the headache is Advil. Sleep? That will come eventually.
Now, flash on over to Alex Rodriguez, the New York Yankees player who admitted to using steroids in 2003 (by the way, if he used them in 2003, how can we really know he's not using them now?). Like many pro athletes (doesn't matter the sport) of the era, he felt the need to 'juice' up. Those big-time stats and long home runs were all chemically enhanced.
One of the big excuses these multi-million dollar athletes use for doing steroids is it helps them recover from little injuries throughout the year. It helps their body fight off things like ... headaches.
So, instead of taking a couple of aspirin and sitting in a dark room for an hour, they steroided up to get to work.
Sure, they live in a different world than all of us, but does it really need to have different rules? They lie about it too.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, this has undoubtedly happened to a lot out there (if there are really a lot out there). I woke up this morning with a massive headache and a feeling I didn't really sleep at all.
I kind of half walked through the morning routine. Took a shower, walked the dogs, got a couple of lunches together, came to work.
The strongest thing I have to stop the headache is Advil. Sleep? That will come eventually.
Now, flash on over to Alex Rodriguez, the New York Yankees player who admitted to using steroids in 2003 (by the way, if he used them in 2003, how can we really know he's not using them now?). Like many pro athletes (doesn't matter the sport) of the era, he felt the need to 'juice' up. Those big-time stats and long home runs were all chemically enhanced.
One of the big excuses these multi-million dollar athletes use for doing steroids is it helps them recover from little injuries throughout the year. It helps their body fight off things like ... headaches.
So, instead of taking a couple of aspirin and sitting in a dark room for an hour, they steroided up to get to work.
Sure, they live in a different world than all of us, but does it really need to have different rules? They lie about it too.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, February 9, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Playground fun
Good Morning and aren't we all wishing for more of Sunday's warmth?!
There's really nothing like an unexpected spring-like day in the middle of a cold winter. Not only does it give us a chance to turn the heat down for the day (I'm thumbing my nose at the oil companies at least for one day), but we all get to go outside.
What to do? Well, you could take a walk. You could ride bikes. You could head to the zoo. You could just sit on the front steps and enjoy the warmth.
The best thing is to head to a playground, especially when there are three little ones getting stir crazy by the winter. After all, there's only so much cleaning, reading and watching movies you can do before the brain goes crazy.
So, instead of bouncing off the walls, let them bounce off playground equipment. Up and down the slides, onto the swings (for hours?), running around with reckless abandon and that's just the adults.
While in the middle of summer the playground might not have the same appeal, the middle of winter offers hope. Get out, remember what the air felt like. Throw the ball around. Scream. Yell. Pretend to be a monster.
If only the day could last forever.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
There's really nothing like an unexpected spring-like day in the middle of a cold winter. Not only does it give us a chance to turn the heat down for the day (I'm thumbing my nose at the oil companies at least for one day), but we all get to go outside.
What to do? Well, you could take a walk. You could ride bikes. You could head to the zoo. You could just sit on the front steps and enjoy the warmth.
The best thing is to head to a playground, especially when there are three little ones getting stir crazy by the winter. After all, there's only so much cleaning, reading and watching movies you can do before the brain goes crazy.
So, instead of bouncing off the walls, let them bounce off playground equipment. Up and down the slides, onto the swings (for hours?), running around with reckless abandon and that's just the adults.
While in the middle of summer the playground might not have the same appeal, the middle of winter offers hope. Get out, remember what the air felt like. Throw the ball around. Scream. Yell. Pretend to be a monster.
If only the day could last forever.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, February 6, 2009
Rise and Shine -- Dance, dance revolution
Good Morning and welcome to Friday!
So, we really are into the Hollywood Award Season. We have the Oscars in a couple of weeks (only saw Wall-E among the nominees) and this Sunday is the Grammy's (never heard one of the nominated songs).
OK, so pop culture may not be my thing, so, you can CLICK HERE to get a preview of Sunday's event
More interesting from this side of the world, though, is how those running the Grammy Awards are trying to be a little bit of everything.
Here is a partial list of the performers for Sunday's show: Neil Diamond, B.B. King, John Mayer, M.I.A., Smokey Robinson, Keith Urban, Stevie Wonder, Estelle and Kanye West; Jennifer Hudson; Jonas Brothers; Kid Rock; Lil Wayne; Paul McCartney (with special guest drummer Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters); Katy Perry; Robert Plant & Alison Krauss; Radiohead; Rihanna; Sugarland; Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift; T.I. and Justin Timberlake.
So, we have a mix of old school and new 'music.' It's purely an attempt to get those over the age of 21 to tune into the show.
Look, I understand music changes over the years. It evolves like everything else, but the Grammy's never really made much sense. Your favorite song may not be your friend's favorite song. You can't quantify the best when it's up to your own ears to decide what's best.
Unlike movies (where everybody knows the difference from a good one and a Keanu Reeves one), music is personal.
How about dumping the award portion and just show the performances. Or, better yet, just put them all on iTunes and everybody can decide.
Then again, where else can you get this:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, we really are into the Hollywood Award Season. We have the Oscars in a couple of weeks (only saw Wall-E among the nominees) and this Sunday is the Grammy's (never heard one of the nominated songs).
OK, so pop culture may not be my thing, so, you can CLICK HERE to get a preview of Sunday's event
More interesting from this side of the world, though, is how those running the Grammy Awards are trying to be a little bit of everything.
Here is a partial list of the performers for Sunday's show: Neil Diamond, B.B. King, John Mayer, M.I.A., Smokey Robinson, Keith Urban, Stevie Wonder, Estelle and Kanye West; Jennifer Hudson; Jonas Brothers; Kid Rock; Lil Wayne; Paul McCartney (with special guest drummer Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters); Katy Perry; Robert Plant & Alison Krauss; Radiohead; Rihanna; Sugarland; Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift; T.I. and Justin Timberlake.
So, we have a mix of old school and new 'music.' It's purely an attempt to get those over the age of 21 to tune into the show.
Look, I understand music changes over the years. It evolves like everything else, but the Grammy's never really made much sense. Your favorite song may not be your friend's favorite song. You can't quantify the best when it's up to your own ears to decide what's best.
Unlike movies (where everybody knows the difference from a good one and a Keanu Reeves one), music is personal.
How about dumping the award portion and just show the performances. Or, better yet, just put them all on iTunes and everybody can decide.
Then again, where else can you get this:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Movie connections
Good Morning and bundle up!
During a conversation in the newsroom yesterday the subject of movies came up (how it got from typewriters to movies is another, very long, story) and there was talk about the new Steve Martin movie 'The Pink Panther 2.'
The movie is a sequel to the 'The Pink Panther' which was a remake of 'The Pink Panther' which was one of the funniest movies ever made.
Now, having seen all the original Pink Panther movies several times, I never really felt the need to see the Steve Martin remake. Really, the originals (there were four really worth seeing), staring Peter Sellers are great movies. They are funny. They are outlandish. They are a good way to escape.
At least for some.
Now, a few years ago as a Christmas gift, I received the DVD box set of all the movies. So, having enjoyed these movies so much, I gathered the family around and popped the first one into the player.
Of course, moments into the movie, I was laughing like crazy, nearly falling off the couch.
The rest of the family? Well, if they could have fallen asleep they would have. If they laughed once throughout the movie, I missed it. For some reason, it didn't connect.
I have a feeling, though, they would find the Steve Martin remake very funny.
Why? There are mysteries out there that can never be solved.
At least I can get the boys to watch the 'Three Stooges.'
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
During a conversation in the newsroom yesterday the subject of movies came up (how it got from typewriters to movies is another, very long, story) and there was talk about the new Steve Martin movie 'The Pink Panther 2.'
The movie is a sequel to the 'The Pink Panther' which was a remake of 'The Pink Panther' which was one of the funniest movies ever made.
Now, having seen all the original Pink Panther movies several times, I never really felt the need to see the Steve Martin remake. Really, the originals (there were four really worth seeing), staring Peter Sellers are great movies. They are funny. They are outlandish. They are a good way to escape.
At least for some.
Now, a few years ago as a Christmas gift, I received the DVD box set of all the movies. So, having enjoyed these movies so much, I gathered the family around and popped the first one into the player.
Of course, moments into the movie, I was laughing like crazy, nearly falling off the couch.
The rest of the family? Well, if they could have fallen asleep they would have. If they laughed once throughout the movie, I missed it. For some reason, it didn't connect.
I have a feeling, though, they would find the Steve Martin remake very funny.
Why? There are mysteries out there that can never be solved.
At least I can get the boys to watch the 'Three Stooges.'
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Snowman or lady
Good Morning and welcome back to winter!
Sure, it's going to get warmer this weekend, but last night's snow certainly made things look nice.
It was also great for snowman (and snowballs, but that's another story). While making a snowman last night, it became increasingly clear we haven't had a good snowman snow storm in quite some time.
Three children (ages 9, 6 and 4) really had no idea how to roll the snow for a giant snowman. Sure, they can throw the stuff, but to roll it around the lawn and pick up more just seemed like a foreign concept.
Thanks mild winters!
Trying to describe the art of building a snowman can be tough, especially when the base snowball keeps falling apart. So, it was time to get down in the cold, wet stuff.
We rolled and rolled and rolled. The first part was as tall as the front steps, then it was the little one's turn.
Really, it does the heart good to see a 4-year old little girl, all decked out in pink, rolling snow along the lawn.
So, the snowman got built. Then dressed. Then named.
At which point it became a snowlady. Rightly named Cinderella.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Sure, it's going to get warmer this weekend, but last night's snow certainly made things look nice.
It was also great for snowman (and snowballs, but that's another story). While making a snowman last night, it became increasingly clear we haven't had a good snowman snow storm in quite some time.
Three children (ages 9, 6 and 4) really had no idea how to roll the snow for a giant snowman. Sure, they can throw the stuff, but to roll it around the lawn and pick up more just seemed like a foreign concept.
Thanks mild winters!
Trying to describe the art of building a snowman can be tough, especially when the base snowball keeps falling apart. So, it was time to get down in the cold, wet stuff.
We rolled and rolled and rolled. The first part was as tall as the front steps, then it was the little one's turn.
Really, it does the heart good to see a 4-year old little girl, all decked out in pink, rolling snow along the lawn.
So, the snowman got built. Then dressed. Then named.
At which point it became a snowlady. Rightly named Cinderella.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Grand Slam for the heart
Good Morning and welcome to another snowy morning!
This morning, Denny's is offering a free grand slam breakfast to anybody who comes in the door. Let's break that down for a minute:
The Grand Slam is Denny's most famous meal, it has (if I remember right) two eggs, two sausage links, two strips of bacon, two pancakes and hash browns. What do you get with this? How about 795 calories, 50 grams of fat, 460 milligrams of Cholesterol and 2237mg of Sodium.
Now, mull that over for a minute: 50 grams of fat!
Just as a source of reference, the recommended daily allowance is 65 grams of fat, 300 mg of cholesterol and 2400 mg of sodium.
So, I guess if you the only thing you eat the rest of the day is a few bananas, well, it's a good deal.
Then again, it's free and you will probably burn a few calories standing in line.
Never mind, good deal.
In other news, today was the 'Day the Music Died.' So, in remembering the plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper and Richie Valens, here's something for those who don't know any of them.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
This morning, Denny's is offering a free grand slam breakfast to anybody who comes in the door. Let's break that down for a minute:
The Grand Slam is Denny's most famous meal, it has (if I remember right) two eggs, two sausage links, two strips of bacon, two pancakes and hash browns. What do you get with this? How about 795 calories, 50 grams of fat, 460 milligrams of Cholesterol and 2237mg of Sodium.
Now, mull that over for a minute: 50 grams of fat!
Just as a source of reference, the recommended daily allowance is 65 grams of fat, 300 mg of cholesterol and 2400 mg of sodium.
So, I guess if you the only thing you eat the rest of the day is a few bananas, well, it's a good deal.
Then again, it's free and you will probably burn a few calories standing in line.
Never mind, good deal.
In other news, today was the 'Day the Music Died.' So, in remembering the plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper and Richie Valens, here's something for those who don't know any of them.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, February 2, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Steely resolve
Good Morning and welcome back to the '70s!
Well, it turns out it might have been better the Eagles lost to the Cardinals in the NFC Championship game. If the Eagles have shown anything over the last decade, it's they don't handle in-game adversity well. A guy runs back an interception return for 100 yards right before halftime? Well, it wouldn't have been close from there on out.
Then again, the Eagles don't have a receiver like Larry Fitzgerald, who is simply unstoppable.
More important than the game (which really was kind of boring until the final six minutes), are the commercials. This year's bunch, well, like the game, were pretty boring. There weren't any breakout ads that everybody will be talking about today.
Sure, that one where the people have different pets is kind of funny, but doesn't hold up after the first viewing. Budweiser has to re-invent itself. Horses just don't pull the weight any more.
Then again, it's not like the NBC coverage of the game was groundbreaking. John Madden needs to retire. He's become one of those announcers who state the obvious about five minutes after it happened.
NBC did set one mark, though, the absolutely worst post-game interview of all-time. Enjoy, or cringe:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, it turns out it might have been better the Eagles lost to the Cardinals in the NFC Championship game. If the Eagles have shown anything over the last decade, it's they don't handle in-game adversity well. A guy runs back an interception return for 100 yards right before halftime? Well, it wouldn't have been close from there on out.
Then again, the Eagles don't have a receiver like Larry Fitzgerald, who is simply unstoppable.
More important than the game (which really was kind of boring until the final six minutes), are the commercials. This year's bunch, well, like the game, were pretty boring. There weren't any breakout ads that everybody will be talking about today.
Sure, that one where the people have different pets is kind of funny, but doesn't hold up after the first viewing. Budweiser has to re-invent itself. Horses just don't pull the weight any more.
Then again, it's not like the NBC coverage of the game was groundbreaking. John Madden needs to retire. He's become one of those announcers who state the obvious about five minutes after it happened.
NBC did set one mark, though, the absolutely worst post-game interview of all-time. Enjoy, or cringe:
Breaking sports news video. MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL highlights and more.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, January 30, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Super Bowl?
Good Morning and welcome to the end of the week!
Well, we made it through again. A week down, a weekend ahead, time to clean the house... or watch the Super Bowl.
Maybe it's all the bad economic news we are bombarded with every day or maybe it's just because the Eagles should be there instead of the Cardinals, but the Super Bowl has a little less luster this year.
In years past, Super Bowl parties were all over the place. It was like another holiday where people got together, ate too much and watched (commercials?) a football game.
This year, with the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Arizona Cardinals, maybe there's a little less interest. Maybe not. If not, here's a quick guide to a Super Bowl party.
A fun way to have a Super Bowl party is to mix food (and drink) from both cities.
This year, you can show your Pittsburgh pride with a case of Iron City Beer (if you can find it) and Primanti Brothers sandwiches.
For those not in the know, a Primanti Brothers sandwich is a Pittsburgh tradition and takes some getting used to. Basically, you get some good, thick bread. Slop some mayonnaise on the the bread, top with some artery clogging Kolbassi, cheese, cole slaw and french fries, then eat. It might not sound good, but you have to try it once. When better than the Super Bowl.
Arizona is a little easier. A bit of southwest cooking, maybe a crab enchilada with spicy tomatillo sauce would work. Add some nachos and a heat lamp and you might even be in Arizona.
So, get the menu together and veg out and watch the commercials.
Speaking of vegging out and commercials, this PETA ad will not be shown during the Super Bowl, although there will be plenty with shooting and goofy people:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, we made it through again. A week down, a weekend ahead, time to clean the house... or watch the Super Bowl.
Maybe it's all the bad economic news we are bombarded with every day or maybe it's just because the Eagles should be there instead of the Cardinals, but the Super Bowl has a little less luster this year.
In years past, Super Bowl parties were all over the place. It was like another holiday where people got together, ate too much and watched (commercials?) a football game.
This year, with the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Arizona Cardinals, maybe there's a little less interest. Maybe not. If not, here's a quick guide to a Super Bowl party.
A fun way to have a Super Bowl party is to mix food (and drink) from both cities.
This year, you can show your Pittsburgh pride with a case of Iron City Beer (if you can find it) and Primanti Brothers sandwiches.
For those not in the know, a Primanti Brothers sandwich is a Pittsburgh tradition and takes some getting used to. Basically, you get some good, thick bread. Slop some mayonnaise on the the bread, top with some artery clogging Kolbassi, cheese, cole slaw and french fries, then eat. It might not sound good, but you have to try it once. When better than the Super Bowl.
Arizona is a little easier. A bit of southwest cooking, maybe a crab enchilada with spicy tomatillo sauce would work. Add some nachos and a heat lamp and you might even be in Arizona.
So, get the menu together and veg out and watch the commercials.
Speaking of vegging out and commercials, this PETA ad will not be shown during the Super Bowl, although there will be plenty with shooting and goofy people:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Slip, sliding away
Good Morning and welcome to ice town!
Seriously, is there anything more embarrassing than slipping on ice.
Think about, you are innocently walking down the sidewalk when, boom, your on your back wondering what happened.
After that moment of shock, you don't even feel the pain until checking to make sure nobody saw you. In this world, you probably make sure nobody saw you and shot a quick video as well.
It doesn't matter the time of day or if you are sure everybody is still asleep.
It could be, say 4:45 a.m., you could just be walking the dogs before heading to work. Nobody else is around. It's dark. It's cold. You aren't expecting it.
Of course, you don't start out slipping down. No. That would be too much of a warning. It has to be halfway around when you are letting your guard down.
Turn the corner. Take a step...
Hey, what just happened. Never mind that searing pain in the back or the cut on the hand, was anybody around. Is somebody looking out he window? Are they laughing in the dark?
Hey, it's just ice. I could happen to anybody. Just get up, steady yourself and move on. You can curse the weather if it happens again.
When it does happen again, well, that's time to get laughed at. Slip once, it's the ice's fault. Slip again, it's all yours. Just deal with the pain.
Or go here...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Seriously, is there anything more embarrassing than slipping on ice.
Think about, you are innocently walking down the sidewalk when, boom, your on your back wondering what happened.
After that moment of shock, you don't even feel the pain until checking to make sure nobody saw you. In this world, you probably make sure nobody saw you and shot a quick video as well.
It doesn't matter the time of day or if you are sure everybody is still asleep.
It could be, say 4:45 a.m., you could just be walking the dogs before heading to work. Nobody else is around. It's dark. It's cold. You aren't expecting it.
Of course, you don't start out slipping down. No. That would be too much of a warning. It has to be halfway around when you are letting your guard down.
Turn the corner. Take a step...
Hey, what just happened. Never mind that searing pain in the back or the cut on the hand, was anybody around. Is somebody looking out he window? Are they laughing in the dark?
Hey, it's just ice. I could happen to anybody. Just get up, steady yourself and move on. You can curse the weather if it happens again.
When it does happen again, well, that's time to get laughed at. Slip once, it's the ice's fault. Slip again, it's all yours. Just deal with the pain.
Or go here...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Snow Day!
Good Morning and welcome to the real winter!
OK, so we finally got some measurable snow. The rain that's falling, though, will cut down on the ability to enjoy it. Now, many may dispute the Global Warming argument, but you can't tell me there hasn't been a change in climate.
It's not like it used to be, as the old man said.
Back in the day (talking way back in the disco '70s) snow storms were real. When the snow fell, it closed schools. The driveways were covered (well, until Dad got out there) and there was plenty of time for sledding.
Those days, the unexpected free day from school, meant the whole day was spent outside in the cold. It didn't matter if it was 10 below it was snow. Build a giant snowman. Build a snow fort. Roll around in the snow. Throw snowballs at Dad as he shoveled the driveway.
The last few years, though, the snow as been light and, like today, when it does snow it's quickly followed by rain. Sure, all those first and fourth graders (and at least one pre-K student I know of) will be out playing in the snow today, but it will be different. It will be wet. There's ice on top. They may not last an hour.
Hey, but at least it looks pretty.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
OK, so we finally got some measurable snow. The rain that's falling, though, will cut down on the ability to enjoy it. Now, many may dispute the Global Warming argument, but you can't tell me there hasn't been a change in climate.
It's not like it used to be, as the old man said.
Back in the day (talking way back in the disco '70s) snow storms were real. When the snow fell, it closed schools. The driveways were covered (well, until Dad got out there) and there was plenty of time for sledding.
Those days, the unexpected free day from school, meant the whole day was spent outside in the cold. It didn't matter if it was 10 below it was snow. Build a giant snowman. Build a snow fort. Roll around in the snow. Throw snowballs at Dad as he shoveled the driveway.
The last few years, though, the snow as been light and, like today, when it does snow it's quickly followed by rain. Sure, all those first and fourth graders (and at least one pre-K student I know of) will be out playing in the snow today, but it will be different. It will be wet. There's ice on top. They may not last an hour.
Hey, but at least it looks pretty.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Shortsighted
Good Morning and welcome back!
Now, I don't own a business. I don't have to worry about paying workers. I don't have to find a way to make the bottom line work.
All that is true, so you may argue I don't know anything about business. I do know this, though, if companies keep laying off workers, none of us will survive. You want the country to get out of this economic malaise, then stop putting people out of work.
Just yesterday, nearly 70,000 people lost their jobs. That's just totally ridiculous and, really, shortsighted. You know once the economy does turn around (it always does) these same companies will start making money, but won't be bringing those workers back.
It's just like food prices. When gas was out of hand, food prices shot up because it 'was the cost of doing business. It takes a lot of fuel to get the food to the stores and that's being passed to the consumer."
Well, gas prices fell, but food prices stayed high.
We are not stupid. We can see when we're getting the back-hand.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Now, I don't own a business. I don't have to worry about paying workers. I don't have to find a way to make the bottom line work.
All that is true, so you may argue I don't know anything about business. I do know this, though, if companies keep laying off workers, none of us will survive. You want the country to get out of this economic malaise, then stop putting people out of work.
Just yesterday, nearly 70,000 people lost their jobs. That's just totally ridiculous and, really, shortsighted. You know once the economy does turn around (it always does) these same companies will start making money, but won't be bringing those workers back.
It's just like food prices. When gas was out of hand, food prices shot up because it 'was the cost of doing business. It takes a lot of fuel to get the food to the stores and that's being passed to the consumer."
Well, gas prices fell, but food prices stayed high.
We are not stupid. We can see when we're getting the back-hand.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, January 26, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Big vs. Small screen
Good Morning and welcome back to winter!
OK, now that we are having less and less money for things other than bills and foods, it's time to make choices.
Like movies, for instance. For years, everybody went to the movies. You saw anything and everything. It was a cool experience. You got popcorn, some kind of drink and sat in comfy seats for a couple of hours.
Now, though, even though box office numbers appear high, there are less and less of us going to the movies. Now, instead of paying insanely high prices for the movie, popcorn and drink, we head out to Blockbuster or wait for them to come on television.
For the most part, though, are we really missing anything. Sure, movies like the 'Dark Knight' might look a lot better on the big screen, but they don't lose much on a television screen. Plus, you can get all those cool behind-the-scenes things.
Here are the top five movies of the week. I dare you to try to tell me one of them needs to be seen at the theater.
1. Paul Blart: Mall Cop
2. Underworld: Rise of the Lycans
3. Gran Torino
4. Hotel for Dogs
5. Slumdog Millionaire
Just wait for the video (or cable showing) and you can relax.
Yeah, it's still cool to head to the movies and we all do that once in a while, but with the invention of high-def and DVDs, we don't have to feel so bad about waiting.
Plus, there isn't any need to pay for a babysitter.
Then again, I could be wrong...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
OK, now that we are having less and less money for things other than bills and foods, it's time to make choices.
Like movies, for instance. For years, everybody went to the movies. You saw anything and everything. It was a cool experience. You got popcorn, some kind of drink and sat in comfy seats for a couple of hours.
Now, though, even though box office numbers appear high, there are less and less of us going to the movies. Now, instead of paying insanely high prices for the movie, popcorn and drink, we head out to Blockbuster or wait for them to come on television.
For the most part, though, are we really missing anything. Sure, movies like the 'Dark Knight' might look a lot better on the big screen, but they don't lose much on a television screen. Plus, you can get all those cool behind-the-scenes things.
Here are the top five movies of the week. I dare you to try to tell me one of them needs to be seen at the theater.
1. Paul Blart: Mall Cop
2. Underworld: Rise of the Lycans
3. Gran Torino
4. Hotel for Dogs
5. Slumdog Millionaire
Just wait for the video (or cable showing) and you can relax.
Yeah, it's still cool to head to the movies and we all do that once in a while, but with the invention of high-def and DVDs, we don't have to feel so bad about waiting.
Plus, there isn't any need to pay for a babysitter.
Then again, I could be wrong...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, January 23, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Funny money
Good Morning and welcome to an early spring!
Well, OK, not spring, but a day in the 40s, even one, is much better than day after day in the teens. That is, of course, unless you are a teenager.
Speaking of teens, Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard asked for an $18 million salary for next year in arbitration. The Phillies countered with $14 million. With that kind of funny money (you can't even see that much with 100 games of Star Wars Monopoly), what's the difference between $18 and $14 million. It's like the difference between 18 cents and 14 cents for us normal people.
This is obviously dated, but I remember back when the Phillies gave Pete Rose $1 million to leave the Reds. Sure, he helped bring the city its first World Series champion, but $1 million in 1978 was so unheard of there was some backlash. In those 30 years, we've expanded the price of professional athletes so much it is disgusting. The more teams pay their players, the higher they are going to raise the ticket prices. So, you might root for the Phillies to sign Ryan Howard to a big, long-term contract, but, remember, a lot of that money will come out of your pocket.
Gee, sounds a lot like a government bail-out plan.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, OK, not spring, but a day in the 40s, even one, is much better than day after day in the teens. That is, of course, unless you are a teenager.
Speaking of teens, Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard asked for an $18 million salary for next year in arbitration. The Phillies countered with $14 million. With that kind of funny money (you can't even see that much with 100 games of Star Wars Monopoly), what's the difference between $18 and $14 million. It's like the difference between 18 cents and 14 cents for us normal people.
This is obviously dated, but I remember back when the Phillies gave Pete Rose $1 million to leave the Reds. Sure, he helped bring the city its first World Series champion, but $1 million in 1978 was so unheard of there was some backlash. In those 30 years, we've expanded the price of professional athletes so much it is disgusting. The more teams pay their players, the higher they are going to raise the ticket prices. So, you might root for the Phillies to sign Ryan Howard to a big, long-term contract, but, remember, a lot of that money will come out of your pocket.
Gee, sounds a lot like a government bail-out plan.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Lions, Tigers and Bears
Good Morning and welcome to the outdoors!
Well, there's supposed to be a warm-up over the next couple of days, but, judging by the cold out there this morning, somebody forgot to tell Mother Nature.
Speaking of nature, there have been television shows about people living on their own in the forest for years, eating baked tree bark and surviving among a pack (or den) of bears.
None of them, though, have ever been questioned by bears. Well, maybe in some animation world, but not in the real world. Then again, if you've seen any movies recently, the animation world can be a lot nicer than the 'real' world. Or something like that.
Until you've tried to question bears, or been questioned by bears, though, you can't be a true survivor.
Now, truth be told, there was a bear living in our house last year. He is a quiet bear, though. You can usually placate him with a plate of cookies. His brother, well, it takes cookies and them some. Once again, though, that's another story.
These bears wanted to know all I could tell them about the newspaper business. Being young bears, none had ever really read a newspaper. That's the time we live in. Bears may live in the woods, but they don't take newspapers out there during 'break' time.
So, while trying to protect my picnic basket (dated), I tried to give them a quick overall view of what putting out a daily newspaper is really like.
They asked. I answered. They like the comics page.
Hey, maybe there's hope yet.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, there's supposed to be a warm-up over the next couple of days, but, judging by the cold out there this morning, somebody forgot to tell Mother Nature.
Speaking of nature, there have been television shows about people living on their own in the forest for years, eating baked tree bark and surviving among a pack (or den) of bears.
None of them, though, have ever been questioned by bears. Well, maybe in some animation world, but not in the real world. Then again, if you've seen any movies recently, the animation world can be a lot nicer than the 'real' world. Or something like that.
Until you've tried to question bears, or been questioned by bears, though, you can't be a true survivor.
Now, truth be told, there was a bear living in our house last year. He is a quiet bear, though. You can usually placate him with a plate of cookies. His brother, well, it takes cookies and them some. Once again, though, that's another story.
These bears wanted to know all I could tell them about the newspaper business. Being young bears, none had ever really read a newspaper. That's the time we live in. Bears may live in the woods, but they don't take newspapers out there during 'break' time.
So, while trying to protect my picnic basket (dated), I tried to give them a quick overall view of what putting out a daily newspaper is really like.
They asked. I answered. They like the comics page.
Hey, maybe there's hope yet.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Just wondering
Good Morning and welcome to the rest of the week!
No Eagles. No Inauguration. Just questions.
So, I was wondering why those who were standing in the cold Saturday morning (a couple for more than three hours) were told they couldn't stand on the train platform to see the Barack Obama victory train pass. CHECK OUT the video here for evidence. I'll wait.
OK, back? Now, check out this photo sent to the Daily Times from Perry and Pam Artese as the train rolled through Ridley Park.
There seems to be people standing on the train platform. Just wondering, was it really the Secret Service's call in Chester or was it the Chester police passing the blame?
Meanwhile, I was wondering now that the inauguration is over, do those who so fervently supported Barack Obama continue the work? Sure, there is some new hope, but, like the new President said, there is also hard work to be done.
The biggest mistake we will make is expecting the government to bail everybody out. It's not happening. If you aren't making tons of money you aren't getting tons of money. What we have to do is make all those CEOs and big business owners to reinvest in the community, not in there new cars. That way people can get back to work and we truly can have a sunny day.
So, without answers and even though this is not from yesterday, Maya Angelou sums up our world:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
No Eagles. No Inauguration. Just questions.
So, I was wondering why those who were standing in the cold Saturday morning (a couple for more than three hours) were told they couldn't stand on the train platform to see the Barack Obama victory train pass. CHECK OUT the video here for evidence. I'll wait.
OK, back? Now, check out this photo sent to the Daily Times from Perry and Pam Artese as the train rolled through Ridley Park.
There seems to be people standing on the train platform. Just wondering, was it really the Secret Service's call in Chester or was it the Chester police passing the blame?
Meanwhile, I was wondering now that the inauguration is over, do those who so fervently supported Barack Obama continue the work? Sure, there is some new hope, but, like the new President said, there is also hard work to be done.
The biggest mistake we will make is expecting the government to bail everybody out. It's not happening. If you aren't making tons of money you aren't getting tons of money. What we have to do is make all those CEOs and big business owners to reinvest in the community, not in there new cars. That way people can get back to work and we truly can have a sunny day.
So, without answers and even though this is not from yesterday, Maya Angelou sums up our world:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Rise and Shine --- New start today
Good Morning and welcome to Inauguration day!
Maybe it's just me and maybe there is so much more media now, but I don't remember seeing so much coverage of a Presidential Inauguration as we have for this one. Of course, it is an historic inauguration. Maybe that's the difference.
Maybe it's because we are in such a bad state right now, we need somebody new at the top to shake things up. Maybe. Maybe. Maybe. That's for smarter people to figure out. If there are any ideas out there, let me know. Anybody? Anybody? Bueller?
So, I hope it's a good show that lasts for a couple of years and gets us all back on track. That's what the 'Hope' is about after this election. It's about not staying the same course. We are about to make a right-hand turn. Here's hoping that road is a little better paved.
Speaking of smarter people, this is a good way to kick off Inauguration Day.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Maybe it's just me and maybe there is so much more media now, but I don't remember seeing so much coverage of a Presidential Inauguration as we have for this one. Of course, it is an historic inauguration. Maybe that's the difference.
Maybe it's because we are in such a bad state right now, we need somebody new at the top to shake things up. Maybe. Maybe. Maybe. That's for smarter people to figure out. If there are any ideas out there, let me know. Anybody? Anybody? Bueller?
So, I hope it's a good show that lasts for a couple of years and gets us all back on track. That's what the 'Hope' is about after this election. It's about not staying the same course. We are about to make a right-hand turn. Here's hoping that road is a little better paved.
Speaking of smarter people, this is a good way to kick off Inauguration Day.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, January 19, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Inauguration fever
Good Morning and welcome to the first day of spring training!
Well, the Eagles are done and the Phillies are right around the corner. In between, though, there's a little thing happening down in Washington D.C.
The Inauguration of Barack Obama has grown to mythical proportions. There are expected to be millions cramming the National Mall today to see the festivities. There were concerts all weekend and a a train ride. There is even a rumor that some people who live in the Nationa's Capitol are renting out floor space in their apartments ($1,000 to sleep on the floor?).
Now, though, we have scored an interview with one of Obama's biggest fans. Although she wasn't able to vote for the president (something about the law and being 4-years old), this fan can't keep the smile off her face when talking about the new president.
Hey, Le, who's that on the television?
You know.
No. I don't. Tell me.
You say it.
Please tell me.
(Big smile) Obama!
Who is he?
Obama. Obama. Obama.
Yeah, but what does he do?
Can I see Obama? On the train?
Well, it's too cold to see the train. We can watch on TV, though.
I like Obama.
Great. What does he do?
He's not a princess.
No, I guess he's not a princess.
I like princesses. Can I play my princess game?
After this is over.
Obama. Obama. Where's Sleeping Beauty?
Now, some history:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, the Eagles are done and the Phillies are right around the corner. In between, though, there's a little thing happening down in Washington D.C.
The Inauguration of Barack Obama has grown to mythical proportions. There are expected to be millions cramming the National Mall today to see the festivities. There were concerts all weekend and a a train ride. There is even a rumor that some people who live in the Nationa's Capitol are renting out floor space in their apartments ($1,000 to sleep on the floor?).
Now, though, we have scored an interview with one of Obama's biggest fans. Although she wasn't able to vote for the president (something about the law and being 4-years old), this fan can't keep the smile off her face when talking about the new president.
Hey, Le, who's that on the television?
You know.
No. I don't. Tell me.
You say it.
Please tell me.
(Big smile) Obama!
Who is he?
Obama. Obama. Obama.
Yeah, but what does he do?
Can I see Obama? On the train?
Well, it's too cold to see the train. We can watch on TV, though.
I like Obama.
Great. What does he do?
He's not a princess.
No, I guess he's not a princess.
I like princesses. Can I play my princess game?
After this is over.
Obama. Obama. Where's Sleeping Beauty?
Now, some history:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, January 16, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Beer and money
Good Morning and here's hoping your car started this morning!
Read this story this morning about how beer sales were down in the third quarter this year. The brewer of Miller is blaming the economy. Orders fell 'unexpectedly' at then end of 2008.
Maybe it could have something to do with taste. Now that there are seemingly limitless choices in the beer store, why settle for something like Miller or Miller Lite or Coors or Budweiser or any other cookie-cutter beer.
Hey, if we barely have enough money to pay the bills, buying junk beer is the last thing on the list. Thanks to the economy, maybe we are starting to get a little more picky.
Why waste the money on colored water like Coors Light when you can get a case of Guinness for a few bucks more. Leave the Corona in the case and pick up some Dos Equis Amber for the same price and get more taste.
Beer, wine or any other 'adult beverage' is a little treat we can give to ourselves. If it doesn't taste good, what's the point? Just fill the glass with water, add some yellow food coloring and call it Bud Light.
Better yet, grab the case of Sam Adams and enjoy.
Or just enjoy one of the best beer commercials in history:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Read this story this morning about how beer sales were down in the third quarter this year. The brewer of Miller is blaming the economy. Orders fell 'unexpectedly' at then end of 2008.
Maybe it could have something to do with taste. Now that there are seemingly limitless choices in the beer store, why settle for something like Miller or Miller Lite or Coors or Budweiser or any other cookie-cutter beer.
Hey, if we barely have enough money to pay the bills, buying junk beer is the last thing on the list. Thanks to the economy, maybe we are starting to get a little more picky.
Why waste the money on colored water like Coors Light when you can get a case of Guinness for a few bucks more. Leave the Corona in the case and pick up some Dos Equis Amber for the same price and get more taste.
Beer, wine or any other 'adult beverage' is a little treat we can give to ourselves. If it doesn't taste good, what's the point? Just fill the glass with water, add some yellow food coloring and call it Bud Light.
Better yet, grab the case of Sam Adams and enjoy.
Or just enjoy one of the best beer commercials in history:
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Rise and Shine --- What cold?
Good Morning and welcome to the place where American Idol won't be discussed!
So, it's about 20 degrees out there this morning. We're being warned about potential snow showers (no accumulation, though). They said it's going to be even colder Friday.
So, why don't children of a certain age feel it's necessary to put on a coat. Or a hat. Or a scarf. Or gloves. Or anything that would keep them warm on a cold day.
Is it because their natural energy (some scientist please bottle this so we can keep up) keeps them warmer than the rest of the world? Is it because they would rather not be burdened with the tough task of actually putting on the scarf?
It's one of those mysteries that, sadly, will never be figured out.
Go to a school at the end of the day and watch the students come out the doors. With the small exception of one or two, none of them are wearing coats. Now, I know for a fact they are fashioned with the outerwear in the morning. After school, though, it's 'too hot' to wear the coat.
Like 22 degrees is that much warmer than 20 degrees. Downright balmy, if you ask one 6-year old.
Of course, it's the same 6-year old who will put his coat on indoors if the heat is turned down below 70.
Trying to figure it out makes my head hurt. As does this...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, it's about 20 degrees out there this morning. We're being warned about potential snow showers (no accumulation, though). They said it's going to be even colder Friday.
So, why don't children of a certain age feel it's necessary to put on a coat. Or a hat. Or a scarf. Or gloves. Or anything that would keep them warm on a cold day.
Is it because their natural energy (some scientist please bottle this so we can keep up) keeps them warmer than the rest of the world? Is it because they would rather not be burdened with the tough task of actually putting on the scarf?
It's one of those mysteries that, sadly, will never be figured out.
Go to a school at the end of the day and watch the students come out the doors. With the small exception of one or two, none of them are wearing coats. Now, I know for a fact they are fashioned with the outerwear in the morning. After school, though, it's 'too hot' to wear the coat.
Like 22 degrees is that much warmer than 20 degrees. Downright balmy, if you ask one 6-year old.
Of course, it's the same 6-year old who will put his coat on indoors if the heat is turned down below 70.
Trying to figure it out makes my head hurt. As does this...
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Green or Red?
Good Morning and welcome to the middle of the week!
While flipping around the channels with the remote the other day, I stumbled upon a Phillies 2008 season highlight show. Of course, we all know how that ended and the way SEPTA made parade day such a joy.
Even though the ending is known, it still is chilling when Brad Lidge got that last out. The magic of this year's baseball postseason was something that hadn't been seen in 28 years and something many believed would never happen. There was a spark in the air every time the Phillies were playing. There was a sense of something special happening. Then, we all celebrated on Halloween.
What does this have to do with a cold January day? Well, now it could be just me, but even though the Eagles are one win from reaching the Super Bowl, there doesn't appear to be the same juice. It might be because the Eagles have been in this spot five of the last eight years and nothing short of a Super Bowl win would satisfy the craving.
Still, the region's football team is one of four left playing after most believed the season was over in November. The hype will begin sometime today or tomorrow, that's the nature of the beast.
Then again, after all those years of sellouts and Eagles chants, maybe we are really baseball fans first.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
While flipping around the channels with the remote the other day, I stumbled upon a Phillies 2008 season highlight show. Of course, we all know how that ended and the way SEPTA made parade day such a joy.
Even though the ending is known, it still is chilling when Brad Lidge got that last out. The magic of this year's baseball postseason was something that hadn't been seen in 28 years and something many believed would never happen. There was a spark in the air every time the Phillies were playing. There was a sense of something special happening. Then, we all celebrated on Halloween.
What does this have to do with a cold January day? Well, now it could be just me, but even though the Eagles are one win from reaching the Super Bowl, there doesn't appear to be the same juice. It might be because the Eagles have been in this spot five of the last eight years and nothing short of a Super Bowl win would satisfy the craving.
Still, the region's football team is one of four left playing after most believed the season was over in November. The hype will begin sometime today or tomorrow, that's the nature of the beast.
Then again, after all those years of sellouts and Eagles chants, maybe we are really baseball fans first.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Bye, bye Bush
Good Morning and welcome to the calm before the storm!
So, President Bush held his final news conference Monday and was, apparently, in a good mood. He joked. He laughed. He butchered the language. He ignored questions.
Really, what's the difference between Bush's first news conference and his last? Really, nothing.
Just think about what's happened in the past eight years. We saw a symbol of New York fall, Wall Street fall, gas prices rise and fall, our bank accounts fall, our 401k accounts fall, our quality of life fall, our jobs fall, our salaries fall and company after company falling.
Can't wait until Thursday night when Bush gives his final speech to America.
Like a case of eating bad clams, eight years has been enough. There will be one more Bush speech next week during Barack Obama's inauguration. Then he can fade away.
You always say if you knew then what you know now, what about this?
During Bush's first inauguration in Jan. 2001, outgoing president Bill Clinton came to the podium and several in the audience (they were wearing jeans and caps with 'John Deere' on the front, but, whatever) stood up and turned their backs in a statement they were glad Clinton was leaving office.
Now, as we try to break out of a crippling economic crisis, instead of turning backs, let's all give a big cheer next Tuesday.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
So, President Bush held his final news conference Monday and was, apparently, in a good mood. He joked. He laughed. He butchered the language. He ignored questions.
Really, what's the difference between Bush's first news conference and his last? Really, nothing.
Just think about what's happened in the past eight years. We saw a symbol of New York fall, Wall Street fall, gas prices rise and fall, our bank accounts fall, our 401k accounts fall, our quality of life fall, our jobs fall, our salaries fall and company after company falling.
Can't wait until Thursday night when Bush gives his final speech to America.
Like a case of eating bad clams, eight years has been enough. There will be one more Bush speech next week during Barack Obama's inauguration. Then he can fade away.
You always say if you knew then what you know now, what about this?
During Bush's first inauguration in Jan. 2001, outgoing president Bill Clinton came to the podium and several in the audience (they were wearing jeans and caps with 'John Deere' on the front, but, whatever) stood up and turned their backs in a statement they were glad Clinton was leaving office.
Now, as we try to break out of a crippling economic crisis, instead of turning backs, let's all give a big cheer next Tuesday.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Friday, January 9, 2009
Rise and Shine --- The crash
Good Morning and welcome to the end of the world@!?!
Well, that's at least the way FOXNews is spinning this story THIS STORY with NASA warning powerful solar storms could shut down the U.S. for months.
Now, before you run out for bottled water and canned vegetables, the scientists at NASA aren't saying a power solar storm is on the way. They aren't exactly pulling television weather-person hype on the deal.
The scientists, no doubt some of the best and brightest in the country, are just saying, you know, it could happen some time in the next 1,000 years.
Just in case you don't remember, NASA pulled out the old footage from the great solar storm outage of 1859. That was the one that caused telegraph wires to short out.
So, according to FOX, although they don't come right out and say it (you have to read between the lines), the Clinton White House once again is about to bring a reign of fire onto our land.
Thanks to all you liberal Democrats out there who so blindly followed like so many sheep. DOOM. DOOM. DOOM.
So, if you still have those Y2K supplies in the basement, you are already prepared. Lucky you.
Excuse me, I have to run out to get 100 cans of tuna.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Well, that's at least the way FOXNews is spinning this story THIS STORY with NASA warning powerful solar storms could shut down the U.S. for months.
Now, before you run out for bottled water and canned vegetables, the scientists at NASA aren't saying a power solar storm is on the way. They aren't exactly pulling television weather-person hype on the deal.
The scientists, no doubt some of the best and brightest in the country, are just saying, you know, it could happen some time in the next 1,000 years.
Just in case you don't remember, NASA pulled out the old footage from the great solar storm outage of 1859. That was the one that caused telegraph wires to short out.
So, according to FOX, although they don't come right out and say it (you have to read between the lines), the Clinton White House once again is about to bring a reign of fire onto our land.
Thanks to all you liberal Democrats out there who so blindly followed like so many sheep. DOOM. DOOM. DOOM.
So, if you still have those Y2K supplies in the basement, you are already prepared. Lucky you.
Excuse me, I have to run out to get 100 cans of tuna.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Coins in a paintbucket?
Good Morning and welcome to the only place on the 'Net where you can get this...
According to this story a man in Salt Lake City, Utah broke into a home and took off with a paint bucket filled with $800 in change.
Now, there are no photos of the alleged robber, but, $800 in change? That's pennies, nickles, dimes and quarters.
Just think about that for a moment. When you have maybe $2 in change sitting in your pocket, it's tough to walk. Add another dollar and you have to stop every three steps or so. Another dollar and don't even bother getting up.
How do you walk around with a bucket filled with $800 in change? Better yet, how do you even pick it up? Now, maybe if you are a 'roided up professional wrestler or weightlifter, you may be able to pick up the bucket. Carrying it out the door is another matter.
Not too surprisingly, the thief was caught a block away with a crowbar in in his pants (no, he wasn't happy to be carrying the bucket) and the change.
Say you are this robber and you get away with the crime. What do you do with all the change? Take it to one of those Coinstar machines? Anybody who's ever used one of those things knows it takes about 30 minutes to get through $20, so $800 would take all day.
Maybe you can get those coin wraps from the bank, but shoving $800 worth of pennies, nickles, dimes and quarters into those little paper tubes would probably send you to the police department with a confession.
So...hold on. How do you even save $800 in change and at some point, don't you just use it?
Here's a prediction, after doing his time for the crime, the thief will sue the homeowner to pay for his back problems.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
According to this story a man in Salt Lake City, Utah broke into a home and took off with a paint bucket filled with $800 in change.
Now, there are no photos of the alleged robber, but, $800 in change? That's pennies, nickles, dimes and quarters.
Just think about that for a moment. When you have maybe $2 in change sitting in your pocket, it's tough to walk. Add another dollar and you have to stop every three steps or so. Another dollar and don't even bother getting up.
How do you walk around with a bucket filled with $800 in change? Better yet, how do you even pick it up? Now, maybe if you are a 'roided up professional wrestler or weightlifter, you may be able to pick up the bucket. Carrying it out the door is another matter.
Not too surprisingly, the thief was caught a block away with a crowbar in in his pants (no, he wasn't happy to be carrying the bucket) and the change.
Say you are this robber and you get away with the crime. What do you do with all the change? Take it to one of those Coinstar machines? Anybody who's ever used one of those things knows it takes about 30 minutes to get through $20, so $800 would take all day.
Maybe you can get those coin wraps from the bank, but shoving $800 worth of pennies, nickles, dimes and quarters into those little paper tubes would probably send you to the police department with a confession.
So...hold on. How do you even save $800 in change and at some point, don't you just use it?
Here's a prediction, after doing his time for the crime, the thief will sue the homeowner to pay for his back problems.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Here it comes
Good Morning and welcome to another day of rain!
Once again, the television news programs got everybody worried about bad weather only to see it turn to rain.
Apparently, one television yahoo even went so far as to say something like if there's ice on your windshield that means there's ice on the roads.
That's just some more fear-mongering. Sure, it's a little less mean-spirited than things Sean Hannity says, but, hey, it's fear at its best.
Watch out. It's winter. There may be ice and snow.
While this weather problem goes back years, there was a pretty big miss just a couple of weeks ago. No television weather person predicted the ice problems Christmas Eve.
I know one person who, having to leave work at 1 a.m., couldn't even get home. She had to sit on Route 30 until 6 a.m. when the roads cleared.
Having to walk the dogs early Christmas Eve was an adventure in itself. The first step was almost the last as the feet gave way. BOOM.
Of course, the dogs thought they were in trouble and started pulling away. Which, if you had to get out that morning, was a no-win situation. The sidewalks and the roads were skating rinks.
Once again, none of those 'experts' predicted it to be that bad. So, until we get that 'BIG WINTER STORM' expect a lot of weather stories.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Once again, the television news programs got everybody worried about bad weather only to see it turn to rain.
Apparently, one television yahoo even went so far as to say something like if there's ice on your windshield that means there's ice on the roads.
That's just some more fear-mongering. Sure, it's a little less mean-spirited than things Sean Hannity says, but, hey, it's fear at its best.
Watch out. It's winter. There may be ice and snow.
While this weather problem goes back years, there was a pretty big miss just a couple of weeks ago. No television weather person predicted the ice problems Christmas Eve.
I know one person who, having to leave work at 1 a.m., couldn't even get home. She had to sit on Route 30 until 6 a.m. when the roads cleared.
Having to walk the dogs early Christmas Eve was an adventure in itself. The first step was almost the last as the feet gave way. BOOM.
Of course, the dogs thought they were in trouble and started pulling away. Which, if you had to get out that morning, was a no-win situation. The sidewalks and the roads were skating rinks.
Once again, none of those 'experts' predicted it to be that bad. So, until we get that 'BIG WINTER STORM' expect a lot of weather stories.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Rise and Shine --- It's already changing
Good morning and welcome to the calm before the storm!
OK, so let's recap quickly:
Pat Burrell, who's been with the Phillies for a decade, is now with the Tampa Bay Rays.
J.C. Romero, who was a key cog in the Phillies bullpen during the World Series, is suspended for the first 50 games of this season.
The 76ers are relying on Theo Ratliff to solve their woes.
A Democrat is coming into the White House with the economy in the tank.
The most watched movie in the country over the last few weeks is about a dog, some say it was written by a dog.
Israel is fighting with its neighbor.
Black is the new black.
It's going to rain at some point today or tomorrow.
So, things change. Things stay the same. It's the way we keep it interesting.
Then there's this: For the first time in the 101 year history of the program, the University of Pittsburgh basketball team is No. 1 in the country.
For most, I understand, that will bring a big shoulder shrug. For the few who sat through some awful college basketball games in the mid-80s, well, this is an amazing fact.
For those who don't really know, Pittsburgh, much like Philadelphia (maybe even more so) is a football town. The city lives the Steelers. The rest (Pirates, Penguins) are just something to fill in the time until the Steelers play again. The University of Pittsburgh is on the outskirts of the city and, until money paved the way, played all its games in old stadiums on campus.
When it comes to basketball, the city (in general) doesn't care. Now, though, the rankings have Pitt No. 1. Here's a perspective, it's like if Drexel rose to the top. That's how amazing, really.
So, excuse me while I try to find a Jerome Lane replica jersey for I now know anything is possible.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
OK, so let's recap quickly:
Pat Burrell, who's been with the Phillies for a decade, is now with the Tampa Bay Rays.
J.C. Romero, who was a key cog in the Phillies bullpen during the World Series, is suspended for the first 50 games of this season.
The 76ers are relying on Theo Ratliff to solve their woes.
A Democrat is coming into the White House with the economy in the tank.
The most watched movie in the country over the last few weeks is about a dog, some say it was written by a dog.
Israel is fighting with its neighbor.
Black is the new black.
It's going to rain at some point today or tomorrow.
So, things change. Things stay the same. It's the way we keep it interesting.
Then there's this: For the first time in the 101 year history of the program, the University of Pittsburgh basketball team is No. 1 in the country.
For most, I understand, that will bring a big shoulder shrug. For the few who sat through some awful college basketball games in the mid-80s, well, this is an amazing fact.
For those who don't really know, Pittsburgh, much like Philadelphia (maybe even more so) is a football town. The city lives the Steelers. The rest (Pirates, Penguins) are just something to fill in the time until the Steelers play again. The University of Pittsburgh is on the outskirts of the city and, until money paved the way, played all its games in old stadiums on campus.
When it comes to basketball, the city (in general) doesn't care. Now, though, the rankings have Pitt No. 1. Here's a perspective, it's like if Drexel rose to the top. That's how amazing, really.
So, excuse me while I try to find a Jerome Lane replica jersey for I now know anything is possible.
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Monday, January 5, 2009
Rise and Shine --- Welcome back
Good Morning and welcome to the first real week of 2009!
Sure, we had a few days of the new year last week, but, as anybody who drove around Friday could tell you, there was a lot less traffic on the road.
Whether that means more and more people were able to take the day after Jan. 1 first off or if it's a sign of the times where shortsighted companies are laying off workers, well, that's up to smarter people to decide.
Anyway, after sitting on the sidelines for a couple of weeks and watching three little ones bounce off the wall, it's back to work.
Of course, the end of the winter holiday season has the same feeling as the end of summer. While going through it, there is a lot of stressful times, a lot of running around and a lot, a lot, of sugar. Still, it's fun and it goes too fast. Then the wall hits and it's back to the grind.
Back to the doldrums of winter. Saw on the news this morning that there is a winter storm on the forecast for Tuesday. Might was well just slap us cold and move ahead.
We need more sunshine for 2009. There were too many dark clouds over 2008, especially the last half of the year.
Of course, when we break open those new calendars it's a clean slate. Sure, there is still crazy economic news floating around. Sure, there is bad weather on the way. Sure, there are the day-in-and-day-out battles.
We have to believe there is going to be a brighter day right around the corner. I can feel it, can you?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
Sure, we had a few days of the new year last week, but, as anybody who drove around Friday could tell you, there was a lot less traffic on the road.
Whether that means more and more people were able to take the day after Jan. 1 first off or if it's a sign of the times where shortsighted companies are laying off workers, well, that's up to smarter people to decide.
Anyway, after sitting on the sidelines for a couple of weeks and watching three little ones bounce off the wall, it's back to work.
Of course, the end of the winter holiday season has the same feeling as the end of summer. While going through it, there is a lot of stressful times, a lot of running around and a lot, a lot, of sugar. Still, it's fun and it goes too fast. Then the wall hits and it's back to the grind.
Back to the doldrums of winter. Saw on the news this morning that there is a winter storm on the forecast for Tuesday. Might was well just slap us cold and move ahead.
We need more sunshine for 2009. There were too many dark clouds over 2008, especially the last half of the year.
Of course, when we break open those new calendars it's a clean slate. Sure, there is still crazy economic news floating around. Sure, there is bad weather on the way. Sure, there are the day-in-and-day-out battles.
We have to believe there is going to be a brighter day right around the corner. I can feel it, can you?
If you have any cool links or photos, send them along to onlinedelco@gmail.com
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