Thursday, January 31, 2008

Quote

"Less you have the more you have. Trouble is , most folks don't know that."

World Almanac Blog 1971 Poetry Pulitzer

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

The 1971 Pulitzer in Poetry was won by William S. Merwin for the Carrier of Ladders. This book is not available at my local library but I can get it from the Grand Rapids library. A used copy can be had for $ 2.93 @ Amazon.

WX Text

By way of Texas another winter storm is on it's way, although the worst should be to the south of Muskegon. We'll get less snow and temperatures around 30.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

World Almanac Blog 01/30/08

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

The busiest port in the U.S. for 2005 was the Port of South Louisiana with 212,245,241 tons. Top Great Lakes port was Duluth with 44,721,871 tons. South Lousiana ranked 9th globally. This blogs home, Muskegon MI, ranked 118th with 2,063,473 tons

WX Text

Big cool change in form of low and front has come thru dropping temperatures 38 d degrees in 24 hours. Windy with blowing snow until a ridge calms things down this afternoon.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Quote

“Son, your a dreamer, so dream and dream big. But remember it’s in the following of the dream is where the success lay. Achieving your goal is the bonus.”

World Almanac Blog Car Production

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

A look at some car production figures starting on P. 73. In 2006 Japan produced 11,484,233 cars to the United States 11,351,289. In 2006 30.1 percent of US cards were imports. The Toyota Camry was the top selling car at 448,445 while the Prius was 20th at 106,971. Reports indicate that in 2007 Toyota (9,497,754) outproduced GM (9,369,524)

WX Text

For weather makers today we have a low and a cold front. The low (pressure as low as 992MB) will give high winds and rain while the cold front will snap temperatures below 20°.

For Obama

OK, I've decided I am for Obama. Let me lay out my reasoning.

After his South Carolina victory Obama said, "It's about the past versus the future. It's about whether we settle for the same divisions and distractions and drama that passes for politics today, or whether we reach for a politics of common sense, and innovation - a shared sacrifice and shared prosperity. That's it we've seen the recent past and it is ugly, belligerent and not successful.

In Florida Mitt Romney said about McCain “But those three pieces of legislation, those aren’t conservative. Those aren’t Republican.” That's the present, pointless and holding us back.

I read recently this phrase. What is needed is not post 9.11 thinking but post 9.11 creativity. I don't think that Obama will be a one man silver bullet. I do think that he can be a vessel for creative thinking that will get us to move forward.

John Kennedy once said, “The world is changing. The old ways will not do!” This in response to Harry Truman. Well in response to Clinton(s), McCain and Romney I say get out of the way!



Monday, January 28, 2008

1-25-08 Geocaching



BookSeller Trivia


While listing a book I found this little sticker in it. Don't think it exists anymore. Address is between east 8th and 9th streets. I am working to see what more I can find out.

World Almanac Blog 01/28/08

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Appointed by Franklin Pierce James Guthrie served as Secretary of the Treasury from 1853 to 1857. He was a Kentuckian who served in the Kentucky house and senate, and served as a Democratic US Senator form 1865 to 1868. During his cabinet time he worked to pay off US debt.

WX Text

A 2 day warming trend is coming courtesy of a plains low pressure. A cold front follows closely and temperatures will from the 40's to the teens and then right around freezing for the next few days.

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Quote

Don't bother just to be better than your contemporaries or predecessors. Try to be better than yourself. -- William Faulkner

Saturday, January 26, 2008

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


In winning Super Bowl 31 Favre completed 14 passes, but 2 were for TD's including one to Andre Rison and one to Antonio Freeman.

Packer Free Agents


Here are the Packers' free-agent lists for 2008:

Unrestricted free agents (7): LS Rob Davis, TE Ryan Krause, QB Craig Nall, CB Frank Walker, C Tyson Walter, LB Tracy White, DT Corey Williams.

Restricted free agents (2): DT Colin Cole, RB Vernand Morency.

Exclusive-rights free agents (6): S Atari Bigby, RB Ryan Grant, WR Carlyle Holiday, TE Tory Humphrey, FB John Kuhn, WR Ruvell Martin.

WX Text

Low pressure will bring under 2 inches of snow today. Storm system expected Monday with rain first and then snow.

Running Report

Date
Distance
Time
Effort
Route
Comment
1-25-08
1.2 miles
20:00
6/10
Mcracken
Paced so I would last 20 minutes. Falling snow and 20 degrees

Friday, January 25, 2008

Goal Report 25 January


I set some goals for 2008. Here's how I am doing:

  • Adventure Race: Completing a feasibility/ due diligence phase to make sure I have all the gear etc. It's looking like Adventure race #1 for me will be in June.
  • Poetry: Been poetizing this week. May go to an open mic and read some tonite.
  • Organize Books in basement: This is where I keep my business inventory, no progress this week.
  • Purchase a Pop up: We went to a RV show over the weekend which helped us narrow in on what we want.
  • Training: Completed a strenuous hike while geocaching.

WX Text

Snow tonite from a weak front. Clear morning with more clouds as the front approaches.

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


In SB 32 the Packers come up short to the Broncos as Favre throws 3 TD's while attempting 42 passes.

World Almanac Blog Ocean Fishing

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

On P.93 an interesting breakdown of fish caught by ocean. In 1990 23,195,275 metric tons were caught in the Atlantic Ocean. In 2005 this figure was up to 23,700,863. Compare this to the Pacific Ocean numbers of 52,590,922 and 68,004,136.

Thursday, January 24, 2008

World Almanac Blog: Army Enlistment

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Since Bush became President the US Army has grown. In 2000 there were 471,633 soldiers. By 2007 there were 510,024 troops. 422,260 of these are enlisted personnel. (P.121)

WX Text

Lake affect snow ends today. High pressure moves in which should bring clear skies.

Offseason Basis

"We did not play our best football in a time when we needed to play our best football. That's something our whole off-season will be based on."

"The identity of our football team will always be built around our offensive and defensive lines, and we need to improve the run-blocking. That will be a primary focus of ours in the off-season."

Mike McCarthy

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

WX Text

Cold air from the west will set off lake affect snow throughout the day. Heaviest snow fall will be south of Grand Haven.

World Almanac Blog Unabomber

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

This week in 1998 Theodore Kaczynski plead guilty to bombings that killed 3 and injured 2 (P. 490). Prior to life in jail the unabomber lived in a Montana cabin.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

56

Fire hot!!! It was there for us to grab it and we let it slip out of our hands!!!"

– Text late Sunday night from Packers middle linebacker Nick Barnett, to Yahoo's Michael Silver expressing his anger (and status as perhaps the only hot person in Green Bay) about the outcome.

Quote

"I tell my athletes, 'When you compete, concentrate on yourself. Don't focus on anger against a competitor.'"

JOE DOUGLAS

Packers review



After a day or two to get less passionate and emotional here's my look at the NFC title loss to the Giants.

My 1st key was pass protections. This was taken care of well, with only 2 knockdowns and 2 pressures, no sacks.

2nd was hit Manning. This did not go well. Kampman didn't do much KGB has one great play and the rest didn't show. This is supposed to be a team strength in quality and quanity but it didn't seem like that Sunday.

I always want TD's over FG's. This game we got a pair of each. One TD in place of a FG wins the game. Greg Jennings caught one ball, Ruvell Martin had a big drop, these guys are TD makers and didn't play well. Kudos though to Mason Crosby who kicked off well and was dead straight on 2 fg's.

3rd downs- The offense was 1-10, yes 10%! That cascades, more FG's, more time on the field for the defense, few plays made!

The return game. Tremon Williams did give the team a short field for their 2nd td. Koren Robinson looked pretty lost, having trouble catching the ball etc.

What concerned me most was the QB play. Favre looked old and not just on the last pass. He looked done in by the weather. When he moved and threw it didn't work. The legondary gun slinger threw about a 5 yard pass to a TE on 3rd and 15.

I heard Ron Wolf say recently that Favre tilts the field in his favor. Certainly in this game he did not as the little Manning beat him.

I don't know that he should retire or that it Rogers time, but this is most questions I've ever had about him.

So as it ends the leagues youngest team made it to the conference title game and lost. Sure, they're young and should be back. Then again sometimes opportunities are less frequent than you think they should be.

Days

We all have days we remember, wedding anniversaries, the 1st we......etc. Then there's Captain James Cook.

On January 17 1773 he and his crew became the 1st to sail below the Antarctic circle. In his journal he wrote, "At about a 1/4 past 11 o'Clock we cross'd the Antarctic circle for a Noon we were by observation four Miles and a half South of it and we are undoubtedly the first and only ship that ever cross's that line."

On January 18 1778 Cook and his expedition discovered the Hawaiian Islands. Of this he wrote, "Morning of the 18th when an island was discovered bearing nebe and soon after we saw more land bearing north and entirely detached from the 1st..."

Whose had better days than these?

World Almanac Blog 01/22/08

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

On P. 388 in the list of associations and societies the Colonial Dames XVII Century, Natl. Soc. are found. To join "Documentary proof of an ancestor's service prior to 1701 is required." An ancestor who was a colonial governor, signer of the Mayflower compact etc. Retroactively elite, eh?

WX Text

After receiving significant snow last nite it will lessen today. Lake affect snow will then restart tonite into Thursday.

Monday, January 21, 2008

WX Text

A high is on its way out with a low approaching from the SW. The low will bring snow but probably less than an inch on the ground.

World Almanac Blog 01/21/08

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

It's a federal holiday so there is no mail. Looking on P. 371 there is an interesting chart that considers postage rates historically. It goes back to 1851 when the rate for a one ounce letter was .06 or in 2007 dollars $1.48. In 1971 when I was born it was .08 or .41 in 2007 dollars. It's now .41 cents.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Quote

“At 48° 45 South and 10° 19 East, I am an eyewitness to this infamous global
warming. As far as I can remember, I’ve never seen ice so far North during
this season.”

Thomas Coville

Packers/Giants Stats

1-4 Giants record with one or zero sacks

19 Packers sacks allowed 3rd fewest in league.

53 sacks by the Giants league leading.

9-2 Giants records with 2 or more sacks.

Week 2 Favre was sacked just once.

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 20 2002 In a 45-17 loss to the Rams Favre tosses 6 interceptions against 2 TD's. Antonio Freeman caught the TD's.

WX

Cold snap with temperatures around 10 degrees will continue as high pressure moves in. Next is a system coming from the plains with a potential of 6-8 inches of snow Monday nite.

A Salute to Francis Joyon

Francis Joyon has set a new record for sailing around the globe. His time is 57 days 13 hours 34 minutes and 6 seconds. This is 14 day improvement over Ellen Macarthur's previous record. His average speed was 19.09 knots.

Overall this is the 2nd fastest round the world voyage as Joyon edged the 58 day mark set by the late Steve Fosset and crew on Cheyenne, but short of the outright mark held by Bruno Peyron and crew on Orange II.

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Quote

"One of the pleasantest things in the world is going a journey; but I like to go by myself. I can enjoy society in a room; but out of doors, nature is company enough for me. I am then never less alone than when alone"

William Hazlitt

NFC Championship keys


1. Pass Protection: Pass rush is Giants strength. If Clifton and Tauscher play well the game changes.

2. Hit Eli: Rush him and hit him. I'm still not convinced Eli will not crack.

3. 3rd Downs: Pack was 7/10 last week. That keeps drives going and lets you score 6 straight possessions.

4. Big return play: Blackman is game time descsion and would increase chances in this area. Will McCarthy onside kick, or call a fake?

5. Score TD's not FG's Last week Crosby kicked extra points and nothing else. Keep his work load down to win.

Giants QB's Since 1992

Since Brett Favre's streak began the Giants have had a number of startig QB's.

The list includes Super Bowl winners Jeff Hostetler and Phil Simms, Kerry Collins who took the Giants to the Super Bowl and Kurt Warner who was a Super Bowl winner and MVP with another team. Eli Manning was the 1st pick overall. Jesse Palmer aka the Bachelor was one, along with FSU alum Danny Kanell. The list ends with Dukie Dave Brown and Buckeye Kent Graham.

WX Text

Arctic front is here and with it below zero wind chills. Up to 6 inches of snow in some areas with small sized snow flakes occasionally lowering visibility.

Friday, January 18, 2008

Today's Cache

Muskegon Harbor: 2 Views


Today's Hike



Goal Report: 18 Janury

I set some goals for 2008. Here's how I am doing

  • Race in 5K runs: Ran the Sgt. Preston on New Years day. Plan one a month until June. Will travel to Chicago for the Shamrock Shuffle- an 8k- in March.
  • Blogging regularly: I've been working on the world almanac 5 days a week entry, the Packers and their success are a constant topic and I am working to find original quotes to post.
  • BookScoutLookOut: The book selling business is growing, best month ever in sales and month is just half over.
  • Pass NREMT Written: Studying is going well. I have achieved 80% or up in reviewing key areas like airway and cardiology.
  • Organize Books: Re shelved all my books in library. Now need to do same in basement, this will make book sales much easier.
  • Weekly Goal Report: This is the 1st one, so not up to speed yet.
  • Travel: We have Disney reservations for December. Going to RV show this weekend to look at pop ups. Have not had success turning our vouchers into a trip.
  • Reading: Read more classics. Haven't read a one to date.

WX Text

An Arctic front will cross over us tonite. Temps below 20 degrees and 3-5 inches of snow are expected as a result of this front.

Packers V. Giants All Time


Dating back to 1929 the Packers are 30-22-2 against the Giants. FYI the ties came in 1942 and 1947 in the Curly Lambeau era. Lombardi lost only once to the Giants, Bart Starr was 4-2 against the NYG as coach, Forrest Gregg (right) 1-2 including a 55-24 loss in 1986 when Giants coach Tom Coughlin was a Packers assistant.

World Almanac Blog: National Lakeshores

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

The US has 4 areas designated as National Lakeshores. All are in the Great Lakes region with Michigan having 2 of them: Pictured Rocks and Sleeping Bear Dunes. Info from P. 456.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Quote

"Any coward can sit at home and criticize a pilot for flying into a mountain in a fog. But I would rather by far die on a mountainside than in bed."

Charles Lindbergh

World Almanac Blog House's Top Vote Getter

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Starting on P. 432 there is a section on the 110th congress. Representative Denny Rehberg (R) of Montana won the most votes in any house election, 239,124. He is in his 4th term. Being Montana's solo congressman he had a whole state to draw from. Earl Blumenauer (D) of Oregon's 3rd district received 186,380 votes most of any candidate in a multi district state. He was elected to the house in 1996. His district includes the east portion of Portland.

Favre V. The Giants




Brett Favre is 4-2 against the Giants. The wins came in 1995, 1998, 2001 and this season. He's thrown 9 TD's to 9 different receivers. Only Tyrone Davis who caught 2 passes in the '98 win has more than 1 TD against the Giants. In the September game Franks, Lee and Driver caught TD's as Favre was named NFC offensive player of the week.

WX

Approaching is a pair of cold fronts and a low. The second cold front will cool things down Friday to well below freezing.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Blog that Dopesheet NFC Championship


  • Green Bay's 12 titles is no 1 all time, Giants 6 titles is 3rd.
  • Last year both teams were 8-8 and after 4 tiebreakers the Giants went to the post season.
  • Favre is 12-9 in the playoff, 2-1 in NFC title games with a 2 game winning streak.
  • V. Seahwaks GB converted 7-10 3rd downs season high.
  • From 1933-1969 appeared in the NFL title 13 of 36 years (36%)
  • Frank Walker, Charlie Peprah, and Ryan Grant are ex 'G Men'

Great Giants Staff

From 1956 to 1958 the Giants had a coaching staff with Vince Lombardi as offensive cooardinator and Tom Landry as the defensive boss.

During the 3 year period the Giants won the NFL title in 1956 beating the Bears 47-7 and lost the title game in 1958 23-17 to the Colts in OT.

WX Text

Sunny today with clouds on the increase. Snow making low on it's way for Thursday.

World Almanac Blog: America's 33rd largest city

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

On P. 626 Albuquerque is listed as having a population of 384,915 in 1990. By 2006 this had grown to 504,949. No other New Mexico city if over 100,000. Per P. 595 this makes it the 33rd largest American city. The city is 180.6 square miles and the Mayor is Democrat Martin Chavez (P.545).

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Running Report

Date
Distance
Time
Effort
Route
Comment
1-15-08
-----
15
7/8
Mcracken
Paced so I would last 15 minutes. Next week 20.

WX Text

Approaching high will shut down lake affect snow. Weather will be quiet until cold front arrives Wednesday PM.

Packers/Giants Championship History

There is a championship history between the teams. All the below games were NFL title games, pre Super Bowl era. Packers are 4-1 though. Some great venues too.

1938 @ Polo Grounds L 23-17 Playoff record crowd of 48,120

1939 @ Milwaukee State Fair Park W 27-0 1st shutout in an NFL title game

1944 @ Polo Grounds W 14-7 Don Hutson kicked both extra points

1961 @ Lambeau W 37-0 Lombardi's 1st title, Hornung 19 points

1962 @ Yankee Stadium W 16-7 Taylor 85 yards, Nitschke MVP

World Almanac Blog: Johnny Podres

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Podres is listed as the 1955 World Series MVP on P. 898. passed away Sunday at age 75. Additionally he won 148 games and pitched for the Tigers.

New 24 Hour Solo Record

The WSSR Council announces the ratification of a new World Record:

Record: Outright Singlehanded 24 Hour World Record
Yacht: "Sodebo" 105 ft Trimaran
Name: Thomas Coville FRA
Dates: 5th to 6th January 2008
Start position: 49 degrees 05.73'S; 23 degrees 05.35'E on 5/01/08
Finish position: 48 degrees 50.52'S; 38 degrees 50.19'E on 6/01/08
Distance sailed: 619.3nm
Average speed: 25.8 knots

Comments: Previous record: 2006 "Brossard"60ft Tri, Yvan Bourgnon, SUI, 610.45nm, 25.76kts

John Reed
Secretary to the WSSR Council

Monday, January 14, 2008

Healthy


Coach McCarthy says, "To come out of the game with zero significant injuries is an extreme positive, and to be going into the NFC Championship as healthy as you've been really since I've been here, is what we were trying to accomplish, and we got that done."

WX Text

Light snow today. Arctic front still expected Wednesday.

New York Football Giants

Here's why you'll here the phrase 'New York Football Giants'. Once there was a New York Giants baseball team. They are now the San Francisco Giants. They played in New York from 1883 to 1957.

The 'football' Giants began play in 1925 so had to distinguish themselves. FYI New York Football Giants is still the teams legal corporate name.

Quote

"...the native ability to monopolize the bullshit and be enviably crazier and bolder than anyone else."

Jim Harrison Revenge

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 14 1996 2 TD's to Robert Brooks 1 to Keith Jackson in an NFC title game loss at Dallas. For the game 21-39 307 yards 3TD 2 INT.

World Almanac Blog 01/14/08

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

With snow falling we turn to P. 288. Here it says that a blizzard warning occurs when there are winds of 35 mph+ and enough falling or blowing snow to reduce visibility to less than 1/4 mile for at least 3 hours.

Sunday, January 13, 2008

WX Text

Weak low will bring mixed precip. during the day. Looking ahead Wednesday will bring an arctic system that will drop temps below 20.

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 13 2002 Hits Franks and Freeman at Lambeau against 49ers in a 25-15 win.

Packers advance

I think it was the late Jim Valvano who said the NCAA tournament was all about survive and advance. So are the NFL playoffs. The Packers survived week 1 and advanced to the NFC title game.

What they survived was being down 14-0 after 4 minutes. In that span they mishandled the opening kick, Ryan Grant fumbled after an awkward pass and he then fumbled again. Down 14-0 after 4 not quarters minutes!

From then on the Packers scored on 6 straight possessions winning what seem like a second game 42-6 for a final of 42-20.

Coming back from the fumbles Grant set a team record with 201 yards averaging 7.4 a tote. As an aside do you pull a running back with 2 fumbles in under 4 minutes? Would you pull a QB with 2 picks in the same time? I think the answer is a double no and thankfully McCarthy agreed.

What a time for the defense go give up 200 yards a season low.

Grant set a team playoff record with 3 TD's and the team set a new rushing mark with 234 yards.

Bigby flew around hitting hard. Favre completed a pass underhand. Jennings caught 2. Bubba Franks making a play and Favre urging the challenge.

All positive memories setting up a memory opportunity for next week.

Saturday, January 12, 2008

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 12 1997 Packers beat the Panthers 30-13 to advance to the Super Bowl. Favre is 19-29 for 292 yards and 2 TD's including one to Dorsey Levens.

WX Text

Low from Iowa is approaching. This will produce snow starting late evening after a cold daytime environment.

Friday, January 11, 2008

Snow Cover 2

Snow Cover

Snow Pix

WX Text

Low is moving out. Not much is following it, so perhaps some lake affect snow and bit warmer than normal temps.

Divisional Playoff Keys

Here are my 10 keys to Saturday's divisional playoff.


Experience: Let's begin with something that I think is a key but in a different way. If Greg Jennings drops a pass is it due to lack of experience. Some would say yes. If he hauls in a bomb what is it due to then? Really experience doesn't matter, talent does.

Game of parallels: There's the cross pollination between teams, the Holmgrem connection thread etc. On the field this is true, too. There's Favre and Hasselback both Holmgrem pupils. Kampman and Kearney top rushers 12 and 14.5 sacks respectively. Barnett & Tatupu play making middle line backers. Charles Woodson and Maurice Trufant top corners. Ryan Grant and Mo Morris lesser known backs. These will affect things like turnovers (QB's, CB's), 3rd down (DE's), and 3rd down (MLB's)

Return Play: Nate Burleson returned a punt and kick for a TD. Can Williams and Robinson out produce him?

Kicking: Rookie Crosby v. experienced Brown. Still not comfortable in the cold. Of course Brown is wearing heated warm up pants so is he comfortable?

Turnovers: Interestingly both have 24 turnovers while Seattle has 34 take aways to Packers 28. Woodson maybe key to this area.

3rd down: Packers offense converts 43% vs. Seahwaks defense 35% Seahawks offense 35% vs. Packers defense 33% Here's where the multiple receiver short pass plays come in.

World Almanac Blog Bonus: Hillary

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Sir Edmund Hillary died in New Zealand at 88. You'll find Hillary on P. 700. Here is an interesting note that when Hillary and Norgay climbed Everest it's height was measured at 29,002 feet. 2 remeasuremants with newer technology now show Everest as 29,035 feet high. Highest mountain in Hillary's native New Zealand is Mt. Cook at 12,349 feet.

World Almanac Blog Mary J. Blige

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Singer Mary J. Blige known for her album My Life was born today in the Bronx NY in 1971 (P. 209). Per Page 263 Blige won a 2006 Grammy for R&B Vocal performance for "Be Without You" and for her album "The Breakthrough"

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition



January 11 1998 Favre throws a TD to Freeman as the Packers win 23-10. For the game 16-27 for 222 yards.

January 11 2004 In a 20-17 loss Robert Ferguson catches a pair of 1st quarter scores from Favre. Distances are 40 and 17 yards. Game totals are 15-28 for 180 yards.

Quote

It is a mistake to look too far ahead. Only One link in the chain of destiny can be handled at a time.

Sir Winston Churchill-

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Quote

We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.

Winston Churchill

Comparison

Holmgrem with Seahawks 85-67 (.550 winning percentage), Packers since Holmgrem left (88-62, .580)

Quote

Everyone wishes a measure of mystery in their life that they have done nothing in particular to deserve.

Jim Harrison Revenge

World Almanac Blog French Guiana

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Reading a book that has the author in French Guiana. P. 773 tells us that French Guiana is an overseas department of France. Population of 203,321. European Space Agency has a launching center there and shrimp fishing is a key industry. It is located on the NE coast of South America between Suriname and Brazil.

WX Text

Low pressure from Kansas on its way. Approaching midnite could see from snow out of this system.

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Quote

Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.

Oprah Winfrey

Withdrawal in Disgust not the Same as Apathy Part......

"Several New Hampshire women, some of them undecided until Tuesday, said that a galvanizing moment for them had been Mrs. Clinton's unusual display of emotion on Monday as she described the pressures of the race and her goals for the nation — a moment Mrs. Clinton herself acknowledged as a breakthrough."

Last 2 of 3

The Packers have lost 2 of their last 3 home post season games. In 2002 it was 27-7 to ATL, in 2005 it was 31-17 to the Vikes. Between that there was a 33-27 win over the Seahawks. In these games Favre had 3 TD's against 4 picks. Is this trend, omen, or nothing?

World Almanac Blog Clinton's New Hampshire History

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Hillary Clinton won a "surprise" victory in the Democratic Presidential Primary. Per P.536 New Hampshire has seen previous victories by Bill Clinton. He won the state in 1992 garnering 209,040 votes and in 1996 getting 246,166 votes. Hillary has now bested Bill as he finished 2nd in the 1992 version of this primary.

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 9 This was the Packers most recent playoff appearance a home loss to Minnesota 31-17. Favre thew one TD to Bubba Franks against 4 picks. Randy Moss mooned the crowd after a TD. Overall Favre was 22-33 for 216 yards with Driver catching 7 passes.

WX Text

High will build in today and bring sun. After this a low now over OKL will move here and bring snow with accumulation expected Th. nite.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Quote

Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man.

Benjamin Franklin

Global Weirding

global weirding n.
An increase in severe or unusual environmental activity often attributed to global warming. This includes freakish weather and new animal migration patterns.

As in thunderstorms, tornado warnings and 50 degree temperatures in a Michigan winter.

World Almanac Blog Sound of Music

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Today I opened to P. 232 to find that the American Film Institute ranks the Sound of Music as the 40th best movie of all time. It is also in the National Film registry. On P.261 it shows that Sound of Music was best picture in 1965 and Robert Wise won best directory.

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 8 1994 Favre's 1st post season action against the Lions at the Silver Dome. He had 3 TD's all to Sterling Sharpe. The final one was a scrambling to the left cross field throw to Sharpe in the end zone to win the game. Game totals 15-26 for 204.

WX Text

A string of lows coming from the south will continue to warm the area today. Cooling back to near freezing will begin tonite with a small chance of minor snow.

Monday, January 7, 2008

Wild Card QB's

In the four opening-round games, the quarterbacks of the Redskins, Seahawks, Jags, Steelers, Giants, Bucs, Titans and Chargers combined for only 10 touchdown passes -- and 13 interceptions.

Courtesy

WX Text

Pouring rain in January courtesy of a weak nearly stalled cold front. This will stay until Tuesday making rain the big player.

World Almanac Blog OSU/LSU

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

P.929 is the start of the Almanac's college football section. Here we learn that LSU shared the national title in 2003, while OSU won it in 2002. In polling after last years bowl games OSU finished 2nd with LSU in 3rd. LSU beat Notre Dame in last years Sugar Bowl 41-14. The year before OSU beat Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl 34-20. In 117 years of football OSU has 780 wins, while in 113 years LSU has 680 wins. Troy Smith of OSU won last years Heisman while Billy Cannon of LSU won in 1959.

Sunday, January 6, 2008

Quote

“Next time adversity strikes, I hope you’ll look for and find its twin – opportunity,”

Derek Paice

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 6 1996 Playing and beating the 49ers in 'Frisco Favre hooked up with TE's Chmura and Jackson for 13 and 3 yards respectively. For the game he was 21-28 for 299 yards. The Packers win was the only road victory by an NFC team in the divisional playoffs from 1990-99.

Holmgrem now a Seattle Man

With the Mike Holmgrem coached Seattle Seahawks the Packers 1st playoff opponent much will be made of Holmgrems time in GB. The 2 Super Bowls, return to glory etc. At this point though he's truly more of a Seattle man.

He now has 9 years in Seattle. He's won 79 games and has a .564 winning percentage. He's gone 3-5 in the playoffs and reached the Super Bowl once.

Holmgrem was in Green Bay for 7 years winning 75 games and reaching 2 Super Bowls. His post season record was 9-5.

So although there will be re-match/reunion stories Holmgrem is now a Seattle man come to play the Packers, in perhaps his final game?

Saturday, January 5, 2008

Quote

I think in terms of the day's resolutions, not the year's.

Henry Moore

Favre Playoff #'s: Before & After?

From 1993-'97, Favre owned an 8-4 post-season record, threw 23 touchdown passes against 10 interceptions, and his rating was 92.0.


In those seven playoff appearances since the Packers' last Super Bowl, Favre was intercepted 16 times (six against the St. Louis Rams in 2001), threw 11 touchdown passes and had a passer rating of 70.8.

Friday, January 4, 2008

Quote

"I think as far as the adverse impact on the nation around the world, this administration has been the worst in history." — Jimmy Carter,

World Almanac Blog: Error

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

P.967 Here it states that the 2007 America's Cup was won 5-0 by Alinghi over Emirates Team New Zealand. This is in error as the score was Alinghi 5 ETNZ 2. The Cups in 2003, 2000 and 1995 were also one sided white washes. In 1992 Italy won a single race to America 3's 4 races.

Iowa #'s

Democratic Turnout 239,000

Republican Turnout 108,000

Total 347,000

Registered Voters 1,800,000

Turnout 19%

Bully for the Democrats I suppose. But sure seems like a lot of work to attract 19% of the state's voters!

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 4 1998 Favre threw one TD to Mark Chmura in a 21-7 win over the Bucs. It was his 7th consecutive playoff game with a TD.

January 4 Blowout loss to ATL at home 27-7. Favre finished 20-42 247 yards, 1 TD to Driver, 2 interceptions.

WX Text

High pressure will move out today. The winds will switch to the south which will be the set up for warmer temp, drizzle and rain.

Thursday, January 3, 2008

Honors to Bigby and Jackson


Atari Bigby named NFC Defensive player of the month for December

Brandon Jackson voted Rookie of the Week

This Day in Brett Favre TD History-Playoff Edition


January 3 1999 This is the last second loss to the 49ers on a Young to TO pass. It also turned out to be Holmgrem's last game as coach and was the end of any Packer dynasty thoughts.

Favre had a pair of TD's to Antonio Freeman. The 1st was 2 yards, the 2nd a 15 yarder. He completed 20 of 35 for 292 yards.

WX Text

A high pressure is building in the area today. Strong winds today with a well above freezing warm up expected long term.

World Almanac Blog 01/03/08

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

P.29 Warren Avis died April 24 2007 in Ann Arbor MI. The car rental company is his namesake. Avis idea was to rent cars at airports instead of downtown locations as was common. He was born in Bay City MI. The 1st Avis was at Willow Run airport.

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Sgt. Preston

On the 1st completed the Sgt. Preston 5K in 41:43, 11/12th in my age group, 186/200 overall. Those are all personal bests for me!

Last 5k was 44:33 and last in my age group.

Off to a running start in 2008!

WX Text

Lake affect snow will be around today before being ended by a high pressure ridge. Looking to Friday sw winds will warm things up with temps in the 40's forecast for Sunday.

World Almanac Blog Rose Bowl History

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

Yesterday USC whipped up on Illinois in the Rose Bowl scoring 7 TD's and gaining 633 yards. This sent me to P. 929 to look at past Rose Bowl's. Going back 40 years USC is 13-5, winning in 5 straight appearances from 1975 to 1985 (coaches included McKay, Robinson and Tollner). They lost 2 in a row in 1988/1989. From 1996 to 2004 they did not appear.

In that same period Michigan appeared 16 times winning just 4. They won 2 straight in '93 and '98 coached by Moeller and Carr respectively.

Ohio State had 8 appearances with a 3-5 mark. In 4 games from 1975 to 1985 they were losers. These 'L's' were divided between Hayes and Bruce. Interestingly current coach Tressel has not coached a Rose Bowl.

USC's overall Rose Bowl record is 22-9, while Illinois had lost their last 2 Grandaddy of them All games by a combined score of 94-26.

Tuesday, January 1, 2008

WX Text

Snow dumping storm was a miss for us and exits today. Primary concern will be NW winds which will blow snow around and generate lake affect snow.

World Almanac Blog 01/01/08

In 2008 I will blog on items found in the World Almanac. This is a yearly Christmas gift I have grown to cherish. M thru F you will read items that maybe chronological, topical or random.

P.292 Vanderbilt MI holds the record for coldest ever temperature in Michigan at -51° F. This occured Feb 9, 1934. Located off I 75 Vanderbilt was settled on land owned by the famed Vanderbilt family whose Michigan Central Railroad passed thru the area. With a population of just under 600 it's located in Ostego county.