Last Minute Ted Trip

I'm planning on going to the Wednesday night Braves game. M wants to take his girlfriend Sarah. At 5 pm yesterday the Monday night company seats were offered out. I decided to take them and go swap them out for Wednesday tickets. 

Left Duluth at 5:20 and made it to the Blue Lot just after 6:30. Still plenty of dollar tickets available, so I bought one and went inside to swap the tickets. BP was over, and Johnny and Marshal weren't around. Spotted the Chief, my friend from Kroger. In his element, he was in a talkative move. Decided to stick around in case a no-hitter was thrown. Sat with the former Chickfila manager George, whose baseball-playing daughter was voted onto Kell's homecoming court. Made my exit before Bryce Harper made his, and was home by 8:30. Perhaps Ceil will go with me tomorrow.

The Friday night Star Wars parade will be interesting. Wish I had a storm trooper or Chewbacca costume. I really want a bear costume, though it would be hot.

Loved how the AJC asked whether the Braves should clean house "after one bad year." The way fans bad mouth the team they act like it's been season after season of futility. They don't want to hear that the Braves have the league's best record since 2010 (also the winningest since 1991). One guy said it is a bad season if they don't win the World Series. Guess he doesn't work for a company that cleans house every year they're not the number one company in their industry.

Not sure today was the best day to announce the new stadium name. Anyone saying it should've been named after Hank Aaron hasn't looked around at every other professional sports venue in America. Today's UniWatch posting details how the Mets tried to sneak through a change to their skyline logo, where the rectangular UN Building was modified to look like the trapezoid shaped CitiCorp Building. Fans revolted, and the Mets removed the logo from their social media. Quote: "The Mets can't even sell out correctly."

Chris Johnson: of all the players they extended, his was the most questionable. I do love his desire. At least he admits his batting stroke got messed up after he hit two home runs in one game. Bryce Harper swings like Andrelton – all out on every pitch. Pete Rose didn't do that, though Harper considers himself a home run hitter. So many of the announcers these days are saying the players are swinging for home runs when instead they need to be shortening their swings and making more contact. Isn't that what you're supposed to do when you're in a slump?

The game-worn store had the numbered white feather jerseys and 1969 grey jerseys for $200.00.

ROB: Glad you are still going to games and have not jumped off the bandwagon.  Should be a pretty light crowd Friday night - even with it being Star Wars night.

I have not studied the 2015 schedule very closely yet.  I do know both the players and management will look different. I believe these last 2 weeks have sealed Wren and Fredi's fate.  In the upcoming weeks, people will be talking about the franchise falling into disrepair.  However the team will enter 2015 with a rotation core of Teheran, Minor and Wood, with Kimbrel in the pen.  You can build around good young pitching.

I think BJ will be a Cub - some type of deal involving BJ and some cash for Edwin Jackson.  Jackson has a bad contract, but he can eat innings at the back of a rotation.

ME: Saturday morning I heard Ceil answer my cell phone. Bryan Coley was calling, wondering if Matthew and I wanted to go to the Tour Championship with he and Houston. It would've been great to see the golfers and hang out with Bryan, but I was headed out to a funeral and couldn't. Sunday night I was watching the Ken Burns PBS special of the Roosevelts and realized Bryan reminded me of Burns.

I missed most of the Tech game, as the funeral lasted well over an hour. Interesting service at the Catholic church – like a regular service with just a couple of rememberances of the desceased. A son spoke, and the head priest had a few thoughts as well. Gene had been a choir member for fifty years. A choir member stood up and said that Gene had often re-written verses of hymns, and the choir sand a re-written version of "Joyful Joyful We Adore Thee." The words were hard to distinguish, but they sounded funny. Holy Communion was served. Two current co-workers attended (Frisbee and Beard). Also three retirees (Ed Hayes, Joe Moyer, and my first boss Bill Robinson). Also former employee Perkins. My third funeral in three months.

Worked til 5:30 Friday afternoon. Will didn't get home until ten. I watched the Braves. C and M went to Target. Saturday morning I cleaned upstairs and snapped some photos for eBay. Made it home from the funeral for the end of the Tech game. Watched the Georgia game with Will and Ceil. C cooked breaded chicken and tilapia. I posted on eBay. Sold an old UGA jersey for a decent price. More sold monday and Tuesday night.

Will left early Sunday for his church in Athens. I took more photos and listened to a Bryant Wright sermon. Watched some of the Braves and Falcons and read my Zimmer book. C and M got caught in traffic on GA 400. Noticed fluid leaking from my car, and had to leave it at the shop Monday morning. Turned out to be a loose oil plug.

Dawgs Bite Own Tails

Tough loss for Georgia. All but one of the calls went Carolina's way, and Spurrier knew he was lucky. Announcer Gary Danielson noted the questionable nature of three key calls: (1) the holding penalty that negated Todd Gurley's 54 yard touchdown run, (2) the first & goal intentional grounding call - when the fullback was right on the other side of the defender who knocked down the pass, and (3) the poor spot after the 4th down QB sneak. Johnny Crawford's SEC refereeing crew will have several of their calls reviewed this week, though it's doubtful they'll be reprimanded. But even had the spot been more favorable there was no guarantee that Georgia's offense or field goal kicker could've won or tied the game.

Even without those bad calls, the Dawgs bit themselves. The record-breaking kicker missed two field goals. The needless pass interference just before the interception. Roughing the passer. Take away just one of these plays and Georgia could have won - despite the porous defense. The Gamecocks did a great job of mixing the pass and run, making it difficult for Georgia to defend either.

Todd Gurley had another great game. Had his long TD run not been called back he would've had over 200 yards rushing. Unlike the season opener, Gurley took most of the snaps, spelled just a few times combined by Chubb, Marshall, and the speedy freshman. South Carolina kicked short to avoid Gurley, giving Georgia great field position. Heisman hopeful Marcus Mariota had a big game, but Oregon was playing inferior competition.

The South Carolina players and fans were far from good sports. After every play Gamecock defenders were pushing and jawing the Georgia players - Todd Gurley in particular. Someone could've gotten hurt. After one play the Carolina defenders surrounded Gurley and blocked his path back to the huddle. Gurley lowered his head and pushed through the defender immediately in front of him. Another overzealous Gamecock, looking for an opportunity to butt in, shoved Gurley - drawing an unsportsmanlike behavior penalty. Danielson thought the penalty should've been offsetting, but in hindsight I'm not so sure.

Like their players, the Gamecock fans engaged in unsportsmanlike behavior - despite their team having the lead most of the way. On several occasions Carolina fans threw litter on the field, endangering the players and coaches of both teams. They pelted the end zone with trash because their quarterback threw an interception. The Williams-Bryce stadium loudspeaker repeatedly blared "Sandstorm" whipping the fans into a manufactured fever pitch. You'd think that would get old after a while, especially when struggling so against also-rans Texas A&M and East Carolina.

Georgia still has a chance to win the SEC, though their margin of error is more slim. Without improvement on defense, beating Florida and Auburn will be tough, much less Missouri.

TECH/SOUTHERN: Another ugly win for Tech - lucky, even. Their offense is not dominant, and their defense is terrible. QB Justin Thomas completed seven straight passes, but was ineffective most of the second half before coming through with the game-winner at the end. Thomas gives the Jackets a big play threat, but with ACC games the rest of the way the Jackets might not win again. Virginia Tech will be hungry to avenge their loss to East Carolina. Duke and Virginia are improved. North Carolina and Miami are no slouches. Clemson and Georgia have excellent offenses.

So many fans were predicting a Georgia Southern win that had Tech lost it wouldn't have been an upset. Instead they were all wrong - especially my co-worker who predicted 50 Eagle points. I'm almost glad Tech stuck the knife in their hearts at the end like they did.

Nine Glorious Holes

Made it to the Chandler Park Golf Course Tuesday afternoon around 5:20. Found a spot in the little parking lot and threw everything in the trunk. By the time I tied my shoes the first hole was clear. I selected two balls: a Pinnacle and Nike MoJo. Great day for nine holes.   

1. As I set up the phone in my bag rang. I let it go, and didn’t check it until several holes later. Terrible tee shots. Terrible second shots. Decent third shot and two pitches – one from a trap. Nice two putt. Winded, I decide to not keep score (though my best balls added up to 7).

2. Terrible tee shots, but at least I got one in the air. Second shot not great, but better. Nice chip, but it flew over the green. Another nice two putt (7).

3. Great tee shot just off the green. Decide to hit a second and almost lose the ball. Three putt (4).

4. Another great tee shot lands on the green, but rolls off the back end. Decide to hit a second, which again is bad. Hit several putts for a bogie on the par three (4).

5. Holes four and five (above) now have trees to the left, which looks great. I’ve caught up to the player ahead of me, giving me a change to re-tie my shoes and take a rest. After he clears the green I hit one straight tee shot, short of the green put playable. Hit two decent chips and several putts (4).

6. I usually lose a tee ball to the newly added marshland, so I decided to hit from the nearby red tee instead of trekking back to the faraway blue tee. Hit a decent driver, but again can’t resist hitting a second, which dutifully veers into the marsh. As I walk I amazingly find my second ball. I can’t believe I’ve played five plus holes without losing a ball. Then I can’t find my first ball, which should’ve been out in the open. I find a Wilson ball where my Nike ball should be, and hit a decent shot down to the middle of the fairway. As I walk I finally find my first ball far ahead of where I thought it would be – a great tee shot for me. With no one behind me, I decide to hit it – right into a bush. I also flub two more fairway shots before making a nice pitch onto the green, where I sink another nice two putt (5).

7. Two cruddy tee shots. By now I’m so exhausted that I’m just trying to make nice, easy swings. From here out I rarely hit a second shot if the first one was decent. I hit two straight fairway shots and a nice chip onto the green. Now I don’t mind putting two or three balls, giving me time to rest (6).

8. Two decent tee shots benefitted from the downhill fairway. Found a Titleist in the fairway. My first fairway shot landed on the green, so I didn’t take a second. I did take several putts. As I made my way to the ninth tee I snapped a picture of the bell, used to signal players on the tee that the green was clear (5).

9. My first tee shot bounded to the right, toward the road. Had I lost my first ball of the day? My second tee shot was better. As I started up the fairway a bearded, bare-chested jogger veered off the path to greet me. He held up his hand and asked “Is this your Wilson ball? I saw it rolling down the street!” My no lost ball streak was intact. Climbed the hill and hit two fairway shots, both just off the green. I putt several times, and walk off the course at seven o’clock (4) (46).

Two over for the round. How, you say? I played all nine holes with the same two balls, plus I found two more. That’s two over, right?

Gene Lorenz 1928-2014

Gene Lorenz passed away Wednesday afternoon. He had just turned 86. Worked for our company 27 years but retired in 84, before I started in 87. Since then, up until Wednesday, he repped several steel suppliers - including one I buy from. He never retired. Over the years he sold us over one million stainless step plates for the EZGO golf car. 

While a student at Tech he was editor of the school newspaper, and used to travel to out of town football games to file reports. Told stories of sitting next to Frank Broyles in the press box.  He had season tickets for football and basketball for 50 years, and finally stopped a couple of years ago. When I’d go to a game with him it seemed like everyone would greet him. His football seats were next to Frank Mayer, the jeweler. 

Gene and his wife Ann would take Ceil and me to productions at Georgia Shakespeare at Oglethorpe. He had inoperable cancer and had taken a turn for the worse a week or so ago. His obituary is attached. As big a Tech fan as Gene-o was, I can’t believe his funeral is during the Tech game.

Here’s his obituary:

Eugene E. Lorenz passed away peacefully Wednesday, September 10th. A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 1350 Hearst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30319, on Saturday, September 13th at 12:30 p.m. Family will be receiving visitors prior to the mass in the narthex of the church at 11:30 a.m. A private interment will be held at Georgia National Cemetery at a later date.

Gene was born in Wauwatosa, WI, September 6, 1928. He attended St. Bernard’s Grade School, Longfellow Junior High, and graduated from Winter Park High School. Gene was the youngest of four brothers and one sister—Bob, Ray, Fran, Dick, and Marie—all who preceded him in death.

Gene graduated from basic training at Ft. Lee, VA, and served his country honorably in the Caribbean Defense Command, Panama Canal Zone and was assigned to USMA Prep School, Stewart Air Force Base, NY. He graduated with a BS in Industrial Management from Georgia Tech in 1953. While at Tech Gene was Sports Editor of the “Technique,” President of the Industrial Management Society, and active in the Newman Club.

Gene was a long-time and avid supporter of Georgia Tech Ramblin’ Wreck Athletics, a 50-year season ticket holder for football, and a prominent figure at basketball and baseball games. He served as president of the Yellow Jacket Club and also enjoyed the women’s sports that came long after his graduation.

His professional life included employment with Reynolds Metals Company for three years, JM Tull Metals for twenty-seven years, and began his own business, Lorenz Industrials Company, as a manufacturers’ representative in 1984.

A devoted parishioner at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, Gene gave of his time and talent through the years in many capacities: OLA School Board, Parish Council, St. Vincent de Paul Society, and Choir. Additionally, he and his wife were staunch supporters of many charitable causes and Gene served on the Board of Trustees of Georgia Shakespeare for several terms.

Gene relished his role as a coach for little league girls softball at Murphy Candler Park, in the dugout as his four girls competed over several years.

Gene was always ready with a pun, a joke and loved to compose humorous limericks or parodies to the delight of his friends. He greatly enjoyed golfing and had the fortune of playing some memorable courses, among them, Augusta National, The Old Course at St. Andrews, Muirfield (Edinburgh, Scotland), Pebble Beach, L.A. Country Club, Baltusrol, Skerries (Dublin, Ireland), and TPC Sawgrass.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Marie (Whyte), whom he married on June 14, 1952, their seven children: Ed, Larry, David, Mary, Patty, Cathy, Nancy and numerous beloved grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to F.O.C.U.S. (Families of Children Under Stress), St. Vincent de Paul Society, or Damian-Dutton Society for Leprosy Aid.

For the Fun of It

As much as I like golf, 54 holes would kill me. Chandler Park has a few hills, but no golf carts. Walking only. It only has nine holes, and five or six of them are par threes. I do need to get in “golf shape.” There is a chance I’ll be invited to the EZGo vendor day tourney this fall. I kinda want to go, but I’m so bad it would be embarrassing. Couple of months ago I brought an old golf club to work to lean behind my desk. A co-worker brought a golf ball, which is a recipe for disaster. I’ll get the blamed for the goof-offs.

I used to play a lot of putt putt. There may be a course still open on 575 at Barrett Parkway. I could handle 54 holes of putt putt, just not real golf. Wayne Price got me hooked on putt putt in college. He was so cool in his gold Grand Am with the T top. When we’d play putt putt he would grab his own putter from the trunk. I used to take dates to play. Mrytle Beach has so many putt putt courses, but when the sun goes down they’re jammed with tourists waiting to play every hole. During the day its too hot to play, but every now and then I’d drag the kids out to play. Will and I would get the “all you can putt for 24 hours” deal, then play several rounds in the morning, then go back late in the afternoon or night for more. Matthew like to go play, and sometimes Anna as well. My real golf putting is better thanks to all those rounds of putt putt.

We played a course in Myrtle Beach where the “World Championships” were held. There were slopes and curves, but no windmills or dinosaur mouths to hit through. Very little of that these days. I would drive down Highway 17 past the putt putt places and look for the colored golf balls on the side of the road where people hit them wrong.

Bryant Wright is preaching a good series on the end times. Missed last week, but a friend gave me an update on “who is the anti-Christ?” His answer – after the rapture Europe will unite and increase in power, with a demonic leader. My take: since Europe is becoming more and more Muslim, that leader will be a radical Islamist. Earlier Bryant reminded us what Jesus said about the end times – to fear not when nation rises up against nation. There’s still a lot of prophecy that needs to play out before the anti-Christ appears. My friends are out of town this weekend, so I might have to go or watch on line.

Saw Sycamore Row at Kroger. I need to reserve a copy at the library. Almost finished with “Ike’s Bluff.” Next is a Joel Rosenberg non-fiction book. Joel says the President is headed in the right direction concerning the ISIS threat, but is wrong about ISIS not being religious or Islamic.

So many people are saying that Georgia Southern will beat Tech that if it happens, it won’t be an upset. A co-worker who spends more time on his football picks than actual work says the Eagles “will hang 50” on the Jackets. He’s a Georgia Southern grad. I say they won’t.

  

Worked til six Wednesday night. Traffic is bad because the lights on Holcomb Bridge aren’t  synched. Had spaghetti and meatballs and salad. A was at art and M had homework. He needed quiet, so I went upstairs and fell asleep at nine. Woke up at 11 out of a deep sleep, and I felt like I had a full night’s sleep. Cleaned the kitchen and packaged two eBay items, and went back to bed. Was tired and sore from playing golf. Bottom of foot is still sore. Good thing I didn’t wake up early and exercise.

Terrible day at work Thursday. My co-worker had lots of problems finally hit the fan. Then he had a doctor’s appointment right when an action plan was due. Two managers were out of town. The GM was tied up with another customer. That just left me. Some team, huh? But I submitted the action plan by the noon deadline without any help – and had it picked apart. The afternoon conference call was more of the same. My co-worker just dug himself a bigger hole. I spent the rest of the day helping him with his problem parts. Went through twice the regular number of emails (by 9 am Friday I’d already been through half my normal number of daily emails). Though I told him he should phone in his update, my co-worker submitted an email update and left shortly after five. The update turned out to be unsatisfactory. I worked past 7 pm, and was the last one to leave the office complex. Put in another 10-1/2 hours on Friday.

C and M also had a bad day. Sarah’s dad got a new job, and the family will be moving out of town. Went to Willys to eat. Got back after nine and worked on the computer. C watched Project Runway. Anna went to a Grace youth event.

Teams. It would be tough playing on a small market team who tries to squeeze everything possible out of a low-budget payroll. There are a few good players and other players cast off from the better teams. The good players shoulder the load and get criticized when the team stumbles, though little is done to strengthen the team around them. When a good player voices his frustration, he is reprimanded for not being a team player, instead of listened to and encouraged for wanting to improve the team.

  

The Ray Rice story is the cover of this week’s Sports Illustrated. Adrian Peterson is arrested for spanking his children. The country we live in.

Ever go to those new outlets in Woodstock? We only went to that outlet once. Lots of shoes stores, and a Columbia store.

I am a tag watcher. Hadn’t seen the Appalachian Trail tag until recently. Also like that yellow flower tag, and the Trust for Historic Preservation tag with the old building on it.

I asked John Parkes if he was going down to McDonough to sing in Condra’s choir. He hadn’t heard the news, but he said he might.

Adventures with the Film Crew

Last Wednesday afternoon two focus group guys showed up at the house to interview me on my opinions, feelings, and emotions about eating meals: at home, on the go, and in restaurants. A two hour interview, then we hopped in the car to pick up take-out at Chipotle and El Porton. A few weeks ago I had submitted hastily done homework videos, which they said were better than most that were turned in. The guys were good company, and hopefully the time wasn’t a waste for them. Pretty interesting and fun. Shared some of Reid’s dining stories as well.

Ceil was happy to get out of the way. She drove A and M downtown to pick up a certain calendar that Anna needed. That stuck them in afternoon traffic going back to Sandy Springs. Anna hopped out at art. A famished Matthew gobbled up a Slamburger, which he rarely eats. Back home Ceil met the film crew and ate her Chipotle burrito bowl while I downed my burrito from El Porton. Later I picked up Anna.

I was slammed last week and didn’t write much. One co-worker had taken off the Friday before Labor Day and Tuesday after, and another co-worker took off Thursday and Friday. Also hit with projects from my boss and the GM. Was still able to leave work at 3:40 Friday afternoon with a relatively clean desk.

My father was admitted to the hospital Wednesday afternoon with pneumonia. With my co-worker out I knew I couldn’t drive down to Macon until Friday after work. Made it around 285 west before traffic got too bad. Picked up my mom at 5:30 and in dad’s hospital room by 6:20. We stayed until 11:20. Saturday morning I raked the driveway. My dad was released at noon, and I followed him home in my car. Watched the Tech/Tulane game after tripping to Kroger for prescriptions. Arrived back in East Cobb just before Ceil, Matthew, and Sarah returned from Joel and Isaac’s coffee shop concert.

Sunday I was worn out. Looking back, I’d been on the go the entire month of August without much of a break. Finally crashed on Sunday. Cleaned upstairs and chronicled by Coke bottle collection with hopes of selling it: 26 six-packs, 16 individual bottles, and 2 toys. Later I watched parts of the Braves and Falcons (& 49ers/Dallas). Also packaged five bobblehead/eBay shipments.

Busy Tuesday. Work was crazy, and a vendor showed up unannounced at 11 am. At noon we had a surprise lunch wedding shower for new employee Amanda. Left work at 3:30 to take M and a friend to the Kings of Leon concert down at the Lakewood Amphitheater. On the drive down I spent most of the time on the phone for work. Didn’t hit downtown until after 4:30, but traffic was surprisingly light. Dropped them off not long after five.

Drove back up to Little Five Points for nine holes of golf at Chandler Park. When we lived in Morningside I played there a lot, but I rarely get down there any more. They’ve really fixed up the place. Great exercise. Afterwards I hung out at a nearby Moes. I wasn’t hungry, since I ate Matthew’s leftover Taco Bell burrito. I just bought a soft drink and worked on eBay for two hours. Then I drove back to Lakewood, found a parking spot, and listened to the Braves game and end of the concert while watching people walk back to their cars.  We beat most of the traffic back to the highway, and made it home before midnight.

Yesterday morning I attended a dad’s meeting at M’s school in Alpharetta, and drug into work at 8:30.

I hate it when people call me Forrest Gump.

Brave Hawks

SPORTS BITS: Interesting times with the Hawks. Perhaps Levenson thought it was a good time to get out. Not looking too good for Ferry right now. Thing is, you’d think the nature of the business would be to examine factors like race, when it comes to fan experience and player selection. When an audit examines 24000 documents, you’d think race would come up once or twice. Schultz and Hummer might have a point about how winning increases attendance, but if packing an arena to watch a winning team were so easy… Even if the Hawks reached the NBA Finals and lost, Schultz would still be on their case.

Levenson’s email reflected my personal experiences going to Hawks games, particularly the past ten years. Schultz and Hummer agreed that for guys in our middle-class shoes, we’re paying bills instead of forking out big bucks for Hawks tickets. When I was reading the stories early Sunday evening there weren’t any comments yet. The one comment on Facebook was from a guy what thought the email was accurate as well. Could be a win win for the Hawks – they could wind up with a great owner.   

If Gattis went to Florida to learn the outfield it seems like he’s be able to play LF for both teams. They let players bat every inning, don’t they? The only way Wren trades Gattis is if they get the right deal.

Saw where a ticket from Monday’s game sold on eBay for over $28.00. I had two “real” tickets from the game, so I posted them for sale (both sold for a total of $37.00). Should’ve looked for more tickets as I exited the ballpark.

Twitter - funny how people try to converse with experts in a field, only to have erroneous statements thrown back in their faces, like the cool Holy Innocents teacher who didn’t think Doumit had caught this year. I learned to check my facts a long time ago after Lang gently corrected me on inaccuracies in my emails to him. And yet I still post sometimes without fact-checking. I gave up waiting for the artist to say something I could mess with him about, and unfollowed him. Not sure “Braves Paul” has stood out to me.

It has been interesting to be part of the FB bobblehead group. Lots of members from Southern California. I’d like to get a Zimmer or Torre or Cubs Maddux. Trying to be picky, but it looks like I just made a trade for a Sandy Koufax.

ROB (on Sept 4): For all the people jumping off of the bandwagon, there is this. Atlanta is 1/2 a game out of a wildcard spot - chasing a slumping Milwaukee.  Obviously it is not farfetched to think they could get the second playoff spot.  Right now that would mean a wild card game in SF against the Giants.  I think you could say there is a 50% chance of grabbing a wildcard spot. If the Giants had time to lineup their rotation, that would mean facing Bumgarner.  However in a 1 game playoff, as we know from 2012, anything can happen.  I will give us a 40% probability of winning that game.

Winning the WC game right now would put you in a 5 game series against the Nats - a team the Braves have played well against.  What are the odds the Braves could beat the Nats in a 5 game series.  I will say 50%. So, 50% * 40% * 50% = 10%. So, there is a 10% probability of us playing in a NLCS against the Dodgers/Cardinals.

If we win the WS, there are fans who will want Wren and Fredi fired.  If we do not make the playoffs, I think McQuirk will get rid of someone (probably Wren). The funny thing about Wren's moves are remember back in '09 and '10 when people were complaining about the Braves never making moves in free agency?  Now the same people complain about the Uggla trade/signing and BJ signing.  Free agency is an inefficient way to acquire players - probably much more so in the post-steroid era.  All the people who complained about Schafer not getting more AB's would have complained as loud if the Braves had not of signed BJ and went to spring training last year with Jordan penciled in as the starting CF.

I question Fredi's moves/logic sometimes (BJ getting so many AB's at the top of the order), but I think any replacement would make similar moves.  Critical thinkers like LaRussa and Joe Maddon are rare for major league managers.  The norm is Fredi who learned from Bobby who learned from Ralph Houk who learned from Casey Stengal.  I don't think it makes any sense to pull for the Braves to lose so Fredi can get fired and have him replaced by someone like Jim Riggleman (just drawing on a generic managers name).

I think you are right about Gattis - I think he could get plenty of innings playing in the fall instructional league.  I  believe his struggles in the OF last year were due to being hesitant and uncomfortable out there, not that he was not athletic enough.  If I were the Braves, I would hold on to him and work with him on playing LF.  Have him spend all fall in Orlando shagging flies and then all spring training, playing strictly in LF.  He has 43 HR's in 773 career plate appearances (and also 43 BB's).  There are not a lot of 30 HR per 600 PA players left in the majors.

I don't know where to start with the Hawks story.  I agree with you - that many documents, you would think, would have yielded something more inflammatory.  I follow a group on Twitter that is pushing for a new team in Seattle.  Seattle almost got the Kings last year.  Many think the NBA would not want Atlanta without a franchise.  I think they could leverage Atlanta similar to how the NFL is using Los Angeles i.e. if the team's current city will not build a new facility, threaten to move to LA (I just found out that I don't know how to spell Los Angeles).

ME: I’ll take those odds. I’m sure you can expect my response: Yet if we get to the NLCS and lose, the same fans will still want the manager and GM fired. And you are also right  – at the time many fans were ready to riot had Wren not moved to secure a high dollar FA outfielder to replace Bourn.

Coca-Cola Collection For Sale

My inventory of Coke bottles and six-packs are for sale, either individually or as a lot. The seven six packs from the 1996 Olympics will be sold together. All of the cardboard six-pack holders are in great shape considering their age.

Contact me by commenting or at dcm2210@gmail.com. 

Price for all 26 six-packs, 16 individual bottles, and 2 toys: $250.00 OBO. Individual prices are $10.00 for each six pack and $2.00 for each bottle (shipping extra). The seven Olympic six-packs are priced at $80.00 for the set. Exceptions noted below.

It’s Atlanta! Olympics Host City 6 pack 1994

Olympics 1/6 One Year to Go! 7/1995

Olympics 2/6 Celebrating 100 Years of Olympic Tradition 9/96

Olympics 3/6 Torch Relay 6 pack 11/96

Olympics 4/6 Salute to Olympic Hopefuls 6 pack 2/96

Olympics 5/6 Centennial Olympic Stadium 6 pack 5/96

Olympics 6/6 Atlanta Welcomes the World 6 pack 7/96

Olympic Torchbearer Bottle 1996 limited edition $5.00

Olympic Dasani water bottle unopened 1996

Graceland bottle 1995

Cherry Blossom Festival bottle 1998

Sprite bottle from Mexico ($1.00)

Coca Cola bottle from Mexico (2 @ $1.00 each)

Pepsi vintage bottle (empty) $1.00

Pepsi bottle Clemson 74 undefeated home season

Bear Bryant winningest coach Coke bottle $5.00

Coke aluminum bottle $1.00

Diet Coke aluminum bottle $1.00

Sprite aluminum bottle $1.00

Christmas Target 6 pack (2 different bottles)

Christmas Wal-Mart 6 pack 1994

Christmas 6 pack 1995 (3 different bottles)

Christmas 1998 bottle

Christmas 6 pack 2002

NCAA Final Four Charlotte 6 pack 1994

Peachtree Road Race 25th Anniversary 6 pack 7/4/94

Jeff Gordon 6 pack 1995 (holder is soiled) $5.00

NBA All Star Game Phoenix 6 pack 1995

Braves World Champions 6 pack 1995

Falcons 30th Anniversary 6 pack 95 distributed individually

John Smoltz Cy Young Award 6 pack 1996

Braves 1st Season in Turner Field 6 pack 1997

Super Bowl XXVIII Atlanta 6 pack 1994

Super Bowl XXXIII Miami 6 pack 1997

Evander Holyfield 3 time world champion 6 pack

Diet Coke 6 pack from late 1990’s $5.00

Coke vintage bottle 6 pack $5.00

13 vintage bottles with various cities on the bottom

Plastic toy bottle with bear inside $2.00

Plastic toy globe with Coke bear flying around $2.00

Peach Bowl bottle with colored sand inside $1.00

Hey! I need to add my collection of Coke CANS as well!

Tech Trounces Tulane

Only Georgia Tech can look bad in a 38-21 win. Take away a gift touchdown and missed field goal, and the possible 41-14 score looks even better. QB Justin Thomas fumbled the ball away on the first play of the game, setting up Tulane for an easy 7-0 lead. Then Thomas calmly led the Jackets down the field on their ensuing possession to tie the score. Tulane responded with a TD drive of their own, running off huge gains on the ground. Then Tech lost another fumble. Both Thomas and Zenon blamed themselves, though the pitch seemed not to lead Zenon.

In the second quarter Tulane returned the favor. Instead of sticking with the successful running game, the Green Wave took to the air. The quarterback's short pass was well off the mark - right into the hands of linebacker Neely for an easy touchdown. Despite the announcer's praise, I did not see Neely stand out on defense.

The two ESPN announcers, Joel Meyers and Brian Kinchen, did a terrible job, seemingly paying more attention to their pre-game notes than what was actually going on down on the field. Instead of offering in-game analysis, they kept referring back to what players had done last week. Kinchen said Tech kicker Harrison Butker "pulled" his 39 yard attempt left, when in fact the kicker lined up wrong. Based on his position, I predicted wide left before the ball was snapped.

The announcer miscues continued after the half. Meyers was repeatedly too quick on the "Touchdown!" trigger. Thomas broke off a long run and tiptoed down the sideline the last ten yards. Instead of checking the official's signal, Meyers proclaimed touchdown - though the replay clearly showed the official pointing to the spot where Thomas stepped out of bounds. Instead of correcting himself when Tech's offense lined up for first and goal, the confused Meyers thought they were going for a two point conversion. Instead of correcting him, Kinchen remained silent. Then Meyers made the same mistake on the very next play! It was obvious from the telecast that the ballcarrier had been stopped short, but the announcers continued to err.

Tulane abandoned the running game despite its success - and despite the poor passing of the starting quarterback. Tech defenders were sacking, defending passes, and making interceptions. Had Tulane kept running the ball they might have come back. Tech only led by ten as the clock counted down to end the third quarter. The horn blew just after the snap. QB Thomas was hesitant, and threw off his back foot - resulting in a poorly thrown interception. The blocked punt offset the INT.

Once again B back Laskey proved he's much better than converted quarterback Days. Bad blocking by tech running backs and wide receivers limited the offense more than anything. Backup QB Beverly proved he can run for short yardage and move the offense. His game is more basic to Thomas' explosiveness, though both can be effective. Was Tulane RB Hilliard any relation to Ike?

Tech took over with 6:25 to go and ran out the clock - driving down deep into Tulane territory. It goes without saying that the Jackets will have to play better to beat a hungry Georgia Southern team.

MERCER/FURMAN: could've gone, but my dad needed to rest.

CLEMSON/SOUTH CAROLINA STATE: the blowout means little, though freshman QB DeSaun Watson got needed playing time.

GEORGIA SOUTHERN/SAVANNAH STATE: another blowout with little meaning. Savannah State lost big in week one as well. Could give the Eagles a false sense of confidence against Tech.

SOUTH CAROLINA/EAST CAROLINA: another rough game for the Gamecocks, though Spurrier will have his team ready for Georgia.

NOTRE DAME/MICHIGAN: Is Michigan that bad, or is ND that good? Is it the Michigan QB? He did break Tom Brady's record.

VIRGINIA TECH/OHIO STATE: Loved it. And I didn't think the Hokies were that good.

OREGON/MICHIGAN STATE: another Big Ten loss. But top ten teams are supposed to beat teams ranked 11-20.

FALCONS/SAINTS: Great win. Nice to see the running game clicking. Love Matt Bryant - what a steady kicker. Two straight 50-yarders. Since he's been in the league Matt Ryan has more comeback victories than any other QB. The head coach looked like he was going to cry. This could be the springboard to a playoff run.

PANTHERS/BUCCANEERS: Sports Illustrated picked Tampa Bay to win the division. Not good to get beat by a backup QB.

JAGUARS/EAGLES: First the Jags had their fans excited, then disappointed.

49ERS/COWBOYS: Romo kept making mistakes, though he didn't get help from highly-paid teammates like Dez Bryant, who often disappears in big games. Could be a long year for Jerry Jones.

Churches I've Attended

A few days ago my mother reeled off all the churches we attended in Macon, and it seemed like a good list to post on my blog. Dates listed inaccurately on purpose, because it really doesn't matter.

Tatnall Square Presbyterian Church 1959-1962
Forest Hills Methodist Church 1963-1965
Northminster Presbyterian Church 1966-1973
Northside Christian Church 1974-1977
Wieuca Road Baptist Church 1977-1978
Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist Church 1978-1999
North Point Community Church 2000-2009
Passion City Church 2010-present

Most Relevant Teams?

Another inaccurate list from CollegeSpun.com – the 25 “most relevant” college football programs. Several obvious errors. These are their rankings, with my comments.

25. Missouri: the SEC East Champs should be higher

24. Miami: higher than Missouri?

23. UCLA: as relevant as USC

22. OK State: gave FSU a scare

21. Baylor: the Oregon of the South should be higher

20. Michigan: higher than Baylor?

19. Penn State: higher than Baylor? Should be #25 at best.

18. Stanford: should be Georgia Tech’s role model

17. Wisconsin: put a whoopin’ on LSU

16. Clemson: more relevant than Badgers, but would lose to them

15. Michigan State: ok

14. USC: more relevant than UCLA?

13. South Carolina: ok

12. Georgia: more relevant than several ranked higher

11. Notre Dame: tradition & TV keep Irish ranked high

10. Oklahoma: ok

9. Texas A&M: below UGA without Manziel

8. Florida: should be below UGA

7. Texas: should be below UGA

6. Auburn: more relevant than Ohio State

5. LSU: slightly less relevant than Auburn

4. Oregon: correct

3. Ohio State: ranked too high even before the VT loss

2. FSU: correct

1. Alabama: easy #1 choice

Ten "Iconic" College Unis

CollegeSpun.com, which must be the Bleacher Report of college sports, ranked the “Ten Most Iconic College Football Uniforms.” Other than the fact that the word iconic is completely overused (particularly when describing Florida’s unis), the website at least came close. Here are their rankings, along with my honorable mentions and comments…

 

My Honorable Mentions:

16. UCLA: deserves mention. Has gone downhill.

15. Texas A&M: simple but unique.

14. Georgia: I like the round numbers.

13. Clemson: more “iconic” than Florida.

12. Auburn: a great uni.

11. Oklahoma: should be in top 10, maybe even top 5

 

10. USC: Should be higher?

9. Florida: not iconic – these threads are from the 80’s

8. LSU: justified selection.

7. Ohio State: justified pick, except the Pro Combat alt

6. Nebraska: Too plain. Stepping off the ledge in 2014

5. Texas: Should be higher?

4. Michigan: Justified selection.

3. Notre Dame: Justified, save the alternates.

2. Penn State: Deserves a spot in top 10. Need grey masks

1. Alabama: Undisputed number one.

Cleaning House, and a Clean House

After a long day at work on Friday, on the way home I stopped by Cheeseburger Bobby’s, Goodwill, and my barber. By the time I got home it was almost eight and I was tired. Anna was home sick, and stayed holed up in her room.

Saturday morning I cleaned upstairs, a little more thoroughly than usual. Came downstairs for the end of ESPN College GameDay. Caught some of Penn State/Central Florida. Cleaned up until the Tech game started, and tried to do housework during and after the Tech game. My plan had been to stay at home and work all weekend, as there was plenty to do. We have company coming over Wednesday evening. As usual, things didn’t go my way. I’d been invited over to the Halls for the Georgia game. The Earhart’s and Falis’ also came. I’d missed a few of these small group get-togethers recently, so I knew I needed to go. We had a great time, watching the game and eating pizza, salad, fruit, and root beer floats. Stopped by Kroger on the way home to get Anna some medicine and other necessities. By then it was after ten.

Attended Johnson Ferry Sunday morning. Our friend Jeff Pipe, a member of East Cobb Presbyterian, was guest-teaching the Earhart’s Sunday School class. Saw several people I knew: Barbara Adair, Steve Watkins, the Halls, Stevenson’s, and others. Stayed for the service. Bryant spoke on how the current conflict in the Middle East relates to what Jesus said about the End Times – to not fear when nation rises against nation.

After church I hit another Cheeseburger Bobby’s and Goodwill. Cheeseburger Bobby’s had a special on their website that I was taking advantage of. Back home for more cleanup: laundry, dishes, and a massive straightening of the dining and living rooms. Hooked up the old flatscreen in the living room armoire and actually got it working. Folded clothes while watching the Braves win. Also straightened up around the computer, the window seat, fireplace, and the downstairs bedroom. Worked until after 11 pm.

Another long day on Monday. Got up early and did a little computer work. Knowing it would be a long day, I stopped by both McDonalds for BOGO Egg McMuffins and Chickfila for a biscuit for later. Also packed a energy bar, two Frescas, and water bottle. Met my friend Rob at the Braves game. In the dollar line I saw John Parkes and a guy from Locust Grove that I had traded bobbleheads with. Long, frustrating game, but I stayed til the end to watch the no-hitter. Swung by Cheeseburger Bobby’s on the way home. I was bushed from over seven hours in the heat. Did some more cleaning, then went to bed early. Ceil stayed up with Matthew, cleaned the kitchen, and worked on school.

ROB: For all the people jumping off of the bandwagon, there is this:  Atlanta is 1/2 a game out of a wildcard spot - chasing a slumping Milwaukee.  Obviously it is not farfetched to think they could get the second playoff spot.  Right now that would mean a wild card game in SF against the Giants.  I think you could say there is a 50% chance of grabbing a wildcard spot.

If the Giants had time to lineup their rotation, that would mean facing Bumgarner.  However in a 1 game playoff, as we know from 2012, anything can happen.  I will give us a 40% probability of winning that game.

Winning the WC game right now would put you in a 5 game series against the Nats - a team the Braves have played well against.  What are the odds the Braves could beat the Nats in a 5 game series.  I will say 50%.

So, 50% * 40% * 50% = 10%. So, there is a 10% probability of us playing in a NLCS against the Dodgers/Cardinals.

ME: I’ll take those odds. I’m sure you can expect my response: Yet if we get to the NLCS and lose, the same fans will still want the manager and GM fired. Should they make the NLDS, think Wren will still clean house?

Saw where a ticket from Monday’s game sold on eBay for over $28.00. I had two “real” tickets from the game, so I posted them for sale. Got several buyers tracking each ticket. Auctions end Saturday. Should’ve looked for more tickets as I exited the ballpark.

I missed on Louisville/Miami. Also missed on Wisconsin/LSU. Alabama didn’t dominate and South Carolina lost, seemingly making things easier for UGA and Auburn.

8/30 College Football Roundup

Georgia/Clemson: great game. Close first half. Late in the game Clemson could not stop Georgia's running game, particularly Todd Gurley: 198 yards and 3 TD's plus the 105 yard TD return. I did not hear Nessler nor Blackledge comment on Chubb running the last 20 yards for a touchdown WITHOUT HIS SHOE. Did anyone besides me notice? See below:

Good steady game by QB Hutson Mason. The Bulldog defense completely shut down Clemson is the second half, with the last seven Tiger possessions being 3 & outs.

QB Stoudt played well, but the freshman's running ability had the defense on its heels. As impressive as his touchdown pass was, Watson still has a long way to go. And Dabo knows it. Gracious post game comments by the young ball coach. Lots more shots of the Georgia sidelines than Clemson's.

FSU/Oklahoma State: the Noles struggled to beat a tough Cowboy team, setting up a September 13 battle royal in Tallahassee against Clemson. Heisman winner Winston didn't look like the same player from last year – but FSU still won.

Georgia Tech/Wofford: Paul Johnson probably orchestrated the 10-9 halftime score so he could get on his team in the locker room. Wofford shut down the option, though it could have been Johnson not wanting to show off much of the offense so early in the season. Justin Thomas passed better than any QB in the Johnson regime. I still say that unlike a true option, Johnson calls which part of the option is run. The Nick Laskey dive up the middle is planned, as opposed to being a read option. Perhaps Thomas will earn Johnson's trust and be allowed to run free. Announcer Wes Durham was great, but his sidekick was terrible.

The defense was terrible – especially linebacker Neely, who reminded me of overhyped Tech "legend" Ken Swilling - a huge bust. Like last year kicker Butker missed and stupid Jacket penalties were the norm. Tackling the ball instead of its carrier will soon backfire. If the defense does not improve this could be a long season. Even the Georgia Southern game is in question.

Penn State/Central Florida: now Europeans will think all American football games end with a climatic kick. Co-worker Chris had a swell time.

Alabama/West Virginia: The Tide did not roll, and the new QB did not impress. Opens the doors wider for Auburn.

Wisconsin/LSU: I had wondered how the new LSU QB would fare under the spotlight. Opens the doors wider for Auburn.

Texas A&M/South Carolina: The Gamecock loss opens the doors wider for Georgia. The Aggies passed. Surely Bobo took notice. Can Georgia's more run-oriented attack also roll? Even in defeat Gamecock superfan Chuck Hartman was able to rib Clemson for their loss.

Louisville/Miami: Bobby Petrino's first win could mean a tougher time down the road for Clemson against the Cardinals, and a slightly easier time for the Jackets against Miami.

Auburn/Arkansas: the Tigers take care of business.

My First No-Hitter

One rule I always follow when attending a baseball game: never leave if there’s a no-hitter intact. Few games ever came close – until Labor Day.  The Phillies used four pitchers, including ace Cole Hamels and closer Jonathan Papelbon, to no-hit the Braves in a long, hot, almost interminable classic.

Left home at 8 am loaded with three drinks to keep me hydrated. Picked up BOGO Egg McMuffins for breakfast and a free Chickfila biscuit, stopped by the ATM, drank my first Fresca, and made it to my usual parking space by 8:50. Had a nice peaceful ten minute walk to the ballpark, where my usual gate was still locked. Found another gate open, and took my place (10th) in the dollar ticket line. By the time the gates opened 1-1/2 hours later another ten people had cut in line ahead of us. Had I been a more regular attender I would’ve called out some of those thinking they were so entitled to cut.

I passed the time chatting with those around me. John Parkes was doing well. One lady had just left the hospital and drove downtown with a boot on her right foot. She would go back to the hospital after the game. A guy I’d traded bobbleheads with got in line behind me, with his family. Tanner Pittard and his mother were about 50th in line. Drank my Fresca, since the can wouldn’t be allowed inside.

After the gates opened I didn’t see Marshall or Johnny (his brother had passed away) so I left my backpack with John Parkes. Thought I might make it through the dollar line again, but it cut off with about 20 ahead of me. Re-entered for a second Bobby Cox bobblehead, stashed it in my backpack, and went back for a third. Cashed in my free ticket voucher, met that day’s bobblehead trade at the Hank Aaron statue, and re-entered to get a third bobblehead.

Sat and talked with John Parkes for a while (batting practice had been cancelled) then we went through the designated driver line together. Then I went to get the Hank Aaron jersey/tee that came with my ticket. This meant standing in another line, where I met my bobblehead pro. I traded an old Bobby Cox and Andruw statue for Don Sutton and the Evan Gattis I had missed. By then it had been an eventful two hours, so I headed to my centerfield seat to don the new jersey and fuel up on the CFA biscuit and energy bar. On the way I saw Crazy Darrell messing with Lemke, so I playfully put a chokehold on Darrell.

After ten minutes I abandoned my seat and met Rob and his daughter in the Fan Plaza. They were also wearing the Aaron jerseys, so as we talked we were repeatedly interrupted by fans asked where they could pick up their jersey. Rob nodded to his daughter and said they’d stay “as long it it was still fun.” I mentioned my no-hitter dictum. An old Phillies fan offered his bobblehead to Charlotte, but she already had one.

I headed to my free upper deck seat behind the plate, which had the best chance of shade. Made to the seat just after the national anthem. Next to me sat a dad and his daughter, a GT student. She kept score and kept an eye on the out of town scoreboard as they discussed the intricacies of baseball and football. Late in the game I returned from the concession stand and told them I was moving down one seat in the hopes of changing the Braves’ luck. They understood.    

One family of four drug in late. Their 7 year-old son was outfitted in a complete uniform: nice Braves cap, authentic navy jersey and belt, grey baseball pants, new Nikes – and an iPhone clipped to his belt. Little 3 year-old brother rocked Air Jordans. They snacked on a jumbo stadium popcorn. I sipped on my free Coke.

The “Simba-Cam” was so funny – parents holding high their babies to re-create the scene from The Lion King as “The Circle of Life” played. The organist’s tunes included: For Dominic Brown: Brown Eyed Girl and the Charlie Brown Theme. For Cody Asche: Ring Around the Rosey. For Ben Revere: Bennie and the Jets. When the jumbotron showed a teen dancing to a rap song, two other pre-teens raced over to grab the spotlight. One couldn’t even dance. After the game the Braves let Grandparents “Stroll Around the Bases.”

Nothing went right for the Braves. Andrelton made an error on a hard hit grounder, and Heyward lost a fly ball in the sun (graciously ruled a single). Pena was on deck when the game ended, ready to pinch hit for Simmons. The 34 pitches thrown by Jaime in the 8th were insufferable.

Did seem odd for Fredi to pinch hit for the August player-of-the-month on September first. Guess Fredi was trying to break up the no-hitter with a higher contact singles hitter, and give Justin a breather in the 7-0 blowout. I’m just glad Constanza didn’t bunt. To his credit Justin gave the right answer to the press, however steamed he might have been.

I can understand pinch-hitting for Hamels on such a hot day. Not sure how he took it, but he seemed pumped in the post-game celebration. Sandburg managed that inning perfectly. You knew the Phillies were going for the no-hitter when closer Papelbon pitched with the huge lead. Can’t blame them. As the game ended the Phillies players dashed out on the field in celebration. Hamels received most of the pats on the back, and was pulled aside for the obligatory postgame interviews.

It was the 12th no-hitter in the Phillies’ 20,105 game history – but the first combined no-hitter . They retired the last 12 Braves in order and 20 of the last 21. It was the first combined no-hitter pitcher against the Braves in their 140 year history.

ROB: We left in the 7th... I was probably over the game more than she was by that time. I was at the Mercker/Wohlers/Pena game in '91.

I am not in the FireFredi camp, but he makes odd decisions at times.  It makes sense to give a regular a few innings off in a 5-0 game - especially when our offense makes 5-0 seem more like 10-0 - but you have to try your best to break up the no hitter.  The Gattis PH thing also bothers me.  He is the 3rd or 4th best hitter you have.  If he is not starting, you need to make sure he gets a PH at bat.

It sounds like Bradley thinks Gattis will be traded as well.  I don't know whom or what the Braves will get for Gattis.  Whatever it is, the fans will complain about it not being enough.  The logic makes sense - he is more of a DH as opposed to an everyday catcher, however there are not a lot of AL teams using a full time DH.  Even if they were all looking for a full time DH, a market of 15 teams is significantly different than a market of 29 teams.

ME: Only after the game did I make my exit. Traffic on the downtown connector was jammed, though I whizzed though the 75/285 interchange next to the new ballpark going 80 MPH. The day wasn’t a complete loss – I grabbed another Cheeseburger Bobby’s deal on the way home. All told I saved almost $160.00 on Monday…  

Saved/Paid

03.00 03.00 BOGO Ed McMuffin

03.00 00.00 free Chickfila biscuit

00.50 00.00 no GA 400 toll

10.00 00.00 free parking

15.00 01.00 free ticket

08.00 00.00 two free cokes

90.00 23.00 three Bobby Cox bobbleheads

20.00 00.00 Hank Aaron jersey tee

07.00 02.00 Cheeseburger Bobbys burger deal

Got $185.50 worth for only $29.00.