George Steinbrenner: 1930-2010

Likable or not, Mr. Steinbrenner was extremely successful.

In honour of the late Yankee owner:



- ER

Before the trade becomes official...

Bryan Colangelo sent this e-mail to every Raptor fan on the team's mailing list last week:

Dear ERIC,
What a spectacle! What we have all just witnessed is something unprecedented in professional basketball and possibly even in professional sports. In a year where multiple NBA teams positioned themselves for the ability to sign a "maximum" contract player (or players) in free agency, three of the NBA's bright young stars are teaming together in an attempt to win an NBA Championship. Kudos to the Miami Heat for pulling off such a feat.

I'm sure that there is frustration and disappointment, possibly even resentment, upon hearing the news that Chris Bosh is leaving Toronto to join forces with Dwyane Wade and LeBron James in South Beach. Well that certainly is the feeling from this vantage point as we lose a player that has been the centrepiece of our franchise for the last several years. I can assure you every move/investment made in the last four years to improve our basketball team was designed with the belief that putting the right pieces around Chris would get us closer to our goal of winning an NBA Championship. In fact, Chris actively participated in that process as transactions and changes were contemplated because I have always believed that a franchise player experiences a sense of ownership in team building. Unfortunately, we fell short of that goal and must now move on to a post-Bosh era in Toronto.

In completing a Sign-and-Trade transaction with Miami, we were able to extract a very valuable Trade Exception and future draft picks that will serve as building blocks in the process of re-tooling our basketball team. The Trade Exception can be used to acquire players under contract with other teams via trade, or it can be used to leverage the acquisition of additional future assets. Speaking of the future, I can't tell you how energized we all feel to see the positive growth and development of so much young athletic talent on our roster including re-signing Amir Johnson and the recent first-round draft selection of Ed Davis. While more changes to the roster are possible, even likely, we can promise you now that this team will compete every night they take to the floor.

We believe we have the best fans in the NBA and we believe in the city and country that we play in. Your passion, pride and support has been tremendous no matter what the circumstances, and we cannot thank you enough for that. We all share a commitment to winning both on and off the floor and MLSE/Toronto Raptors ownership and management will do whatever it takes to WIN while also making the community a better place. Our franchise will evolve and emerge stronger than before, and I assure you that our combined efforts will produce the WINNER you are hoping for.

Sincerely,

Bryan Colangelo

President and General Manager
Toronto Raptors Basketball Club


Very different from Dan Gilbert's tone.

- ER

Brendan vs. Zach

Forget Taylor vs. Tyler. Let's take a look at Brendan vs. Zach.

It's the biggest debate in hockey (at least in my head).

- ER

Re. Lebron James

Yeah, I saw this coming.

Did anyone really expect him to stay in Cleveland? Miami gives him more money and a greater chance to win a title. In case you weren't aware, loyalty is very, very rare in the world of professional sports.

So...

James+Wade+Bosh = The 2010-11 Miami Heat.

What looks like a gift could also be a curse. Just saying.

- ER

Re. Chris Bosh

And so, the Chris Bosh era has ended.

Can't say I'm surprised.

Fans knew he would leave if the Raptors weren't a winning team. For any fan, it was their biggest fear. I made peace with Bosh's eventual departure many months ago.

Bosh was solid player. He gave a full effort every night. He was respectful to the fans and the media. He never complained or embellished success. From my end - and I'm just one Raptor fan - there is no hate for Chris Bosh; only affection.

Could he have handled his free agency adventure better? Absolutely! But Twitter or no Twitter, Bosh was leaving the Raptors.

And I'm fine with that.

The Raptors survived without Damon Stoudamire, they survived without Vince Carter and they'll survive without CB4.

For the remaining roster, there is nothing but opportunity.

Almost every player has the chance to become the leader; the one to bring the troops together and lead them into battle. There are some good candidates: Jack, Bargnani, Turkoglu (if the rumours about making amends are true), even DeRozan and Ed Davis.

Don't be fooled. Bosh's presence will be missed and every player will need to step up their game. The upcoming season will not be pretty. But the outlook isn't consumed completely by darkness.

Bosh is gone and just like Carter, Stoudamire, Doug Flutie, Mats Sundin and Roy Halladay, it's time to move on.

- ER

Re. 2010 Blue Jay All-Stars

Vernon Wells: Absolutely!

Jose Bautista: Absolutely!

John Buck: Okay, that was a little surprising. He is replacing an injured player (Victor Martinez), but has put up decent numbers. If it were up to the fans, Jorge Posada would've probably taken Martinez's spot. However, the players choose the backups.

Also surprised that none of Toronto's starting staff made the team. The rotation (with the exception of a few) has allowed the Jays to hover at the 500 mark, which has exceeded most expectations. I thought Marcum and/or Romero had good shots of sneaking onto the AL roster. Then again, All-Star games are more about the offense than the defence. Better luck next year.

- ER

Re. Gillette Drafted

Need a good laugh?

Here's my audition video for the second season of Gillette Drafted on The Score. A lot of people gussied up their auditions. I preferred the KISS method.

Here's my face. Here's my voice. Here's my delivery. Take it or leave it.

Enjoy!

Oh.....the audio and video are little out of sync (thanks YouTube). Just pretend my lips correspond with what you're hearing, lol.




- ER

Toronto Youth Shorts

Episode 29 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the 2nd annual Toronto Youth Shorts Film Festival; July 14-17

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: July 16, 2010

- ER

Paul Anka for Molson Canadian

- ER

Re. The NHL Entry Draft

The NHL Entry Draft was held over the weekend. I didn't watch a single minute of it.

In fact, I couldn't care less about the draft because it is a huge waste of time.

- ER

Re. The G20 S**t Storm

Well Harper, I hope you're happy.

I wonder...

Did you want to promote or punish Toronto?

Sadly, 90% of the protesters were peaceful. The remaining 10% were thugs who caused the damage. Those thugs got all the attention. They took attention away from the main issues. They devalued activism and the real activists who used non-violent methods to get their messages across.

What an awful and destructive waste of time and money.

- ER

Re. G20 & G8

There's been a lot written about the summit.

This open letter by Justin Beach is probably the most thoughtful article about everything that has and will take place over the next few days.

Take a look: An Open Letter to G20 Protesters.

- ER

Canadiens 2010-11 Schedule

The Montreal Canadiens have released their 2010-11 regular season schedule. Just like the previous season, they start and end with the Leafs.

- ER

Final Thoughts - NBA Finals

Well, I was right about the Lakers. Now I have put up with Kobe-this and Kobe-that. To be honest, I had no interest in the finals this year. I know the Lakers-Celtics rivalry is one of the best in sports, but I had no desire to watch the series. It happens.

Alright, the stats:

10 out of 15; 67%

That's actually better than my NHL predictions. Go figure.

- ER

Parkdale Showcase

Episode 28 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the 12th annual Parkdale Film + Video Showcase; June 25-27.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: July 2, 2010

- ER

The Halak Trade

I shouldn't be surprised, but I am.

I suspect Halak (or more likely his agent) told the Canadiens he was going to leave, regardless of whether or not they chose him over Carey Price.

Don't know much about these "prospects." One was an AHL all-star. The other put up decent numbers in the WHL.

One thing I do know: Carey Price's worst nightmare has come true. The poor kid will face immense pressure next season; more than what he had to deal with this season. I do not envy him.

- ER

Re. Stevie Y

There's only one man who can fix the BP oil spill: Steve Yzerman.

In fact, Stevie Y could solve anything.

- ER

Re. Blue Jays vs. Rockies

Well that was utterly ugly.

Friday, they get screwed by the weather. Saturday, the bats fall silent. Sunday, they get crunched.

The only Blue Jay that looked decent on the weekend was Morrow and the poor guy suffered a "Halladay" loss.

As for Jesse Litsch: He's not ready yet. It takes more than a year to fully recover from Tommy John surgery. I'll give him one more chance, but I doubt Litsch will stay in the rotation.

- ER

Final Thoughts - Stanley Cup Playoffs

- Congrats to the Chicago Blackhawks! This is a young, talented team. I've been keeping my eye on these guys for the last year. They have lots of character. And this is only the beginning.

- BTW, perfect prediction :-)

- Congrats also have to go to the Flyers. They had an incredible run. As long as they stay healthy, I think Philly has a good shot at the cup next year.

- Who were all those women interviewing Patrick Kane? Is he dating them?

- Great moment #1: Duncan Keith and his fiancee.

- Great moment #2: Stan and Scotty Bowman.

- Crosby may have the glitz and glamour, but Toews has a Conn Smythe.

- Totals: 8/15, 53% Bah!

- ER

Re. Hedo Turkoglu

(If the rumours are true)

Don't let the door hit you on the way out, Turk.

PS: Ball!

- ER

Re. Writing

thoughts are not easy
to put down on paper for
the world to see

- ER

Choosing How We Choose

Episode 27 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

Better Ballots is a non-partisan organization that wants to create a public discussion about voting reform in Toronto. Is it time to change the way we elect local officials?

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: June 18, 2010

- ER

Re. Andruw Jones

Andruw Jones is an outfielder with the Chicago White Sox.

I owe him an apology.

And here's why.

- ER

NBA Playoff Predictions - Finals

Damn you, Boston. Damn you, Lakers.

NBA Final:

LA Lakers over Boston in 6

- ER

Re. P.J. Carlesimo

So it looks like P.J. Carlesimo is going to be an assistant coach with the Raptors.

P.J. & Marc Iavaroni?

Anyone thinking what I'm thinking?

Looks like Jay Triano will be working next season with an axe above his head.

- ER

The Montreal Love-In Continues

There were a lot of articles about the Habs last week.

Here's one more to add to the collection.

Enjoy!

- ER

Re. Dennis Hopper

One word: Legend

RIP

NHL Playoff Predictions - Stanley Cup Final

Third Round: one out of two. No perfect predictions.

And now, the Stanley Cup Final!

- ER

Re. Windows Movie Maker

I'm not very knowledgeable about computers. I only know the basics. So for those who understand these devices, a question:

I'm trying to import a WMV file onto Movie Maker. However, the program is telling me it doesn't support the file. What am I doing wrong?

Thank you.

- ER

Flyers 4 Habs 2 (Flyers win 4-1)

For the second time in three years, Philadelphia knocks out the Canadiens in five games.

Well, it was a good run while it lasted. But all good things must come in to an end.

First and foremost, congrats to the Flyers. They were better than Montreal in every category and almost every game. No question about it. They deserve the victory.

Once again, the Habs did not play a full game. They woke up late in the third period, but it was too late. I don't like blaming specific players because it's a team sport, but I do wonder what would happen if Halak didn't play the puck in the first. The score would've been tied, going to the third.

Regardless, Halak was Montreal's MVP. Honourable mention to Cammalleri.

(Writing as a fan) It was an amazing month. Hold your heads up high, boys. You have plenty to be proud about.

Go Habs Go!

- ER

Silver Screens

Episode 26 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the Silver Screens Arts Festival, a week-long event that celebrates the vibrancy, vitality and creativity of adults 50-plus.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

Next Episode: June 4, 2010

- ER

Re. Game 3, Habs vs. Flyers

5-1. Some random thoughts:

I hope Maxim Lapierre doesn't mind having a bulls-eye on his back. Right or wrong, his antics worked.

For the Habs, there's still work to be done.

Habs took their foot off the accelerator for the final few mins. Not a smart move. However, the Flyers were making their own mistakes, so it didn't hurt Montreal in the end. Still, you never let up.

Getting that first goal was clutch for Mtl. It set the tone.


-ER

Re. Game 2, Habs vs. Flyers

A slightly better effort by the Habs. Yet, it's an unfavourable result. No, I'm not pushing the panic button, but I am concerned.

They need to work on their PP & PK. They need to take it to eleven.

- ER

Re. Sidney Crosby

I'm having a recurring dream about the Penguins' captain.

- ER

NHL Playoff Predictions - Round Three

Second Round: Two out of four; one perfect prediction (Mtl/Pit). Damn you, San Jose and Philadelphia.

And now, the third round:

Eastern Conference

Montreal over Philadelphia in 7

Western Conference

Chicago over San Jose in 6

NOTES: Team 7 vs. Team 8 for the East final. Did not see that one coming. Full credit to both teams. As long as Montreal doesn't allow the Flyers to bully them, they'll keep rolling...still not sold on San Jose.

- ER

NBA Playoff Predictions - Round 3

In round two, I was three out of four. No perfect predictions.

Third Round:

Eastern Conference Final

Orlando over Boston in six games

Western Conference Final

Phoenix over LA Lakers in six games

- ER

BRAVO CANADIENS - PART DEUX

Incredible. Absolutely incredible.

It's hard to describe how I feel right now. It's harder to explain it all.

First, you start with Halak. A hot goaltender provides a huge sense of confidence. Then you look at the rest of the roster. They all play an important role.

I don't want to say anymore. This was only a second round series. There's still a third and (hopefully) fourth round.

I haven't felt this excited since 1993.

- ER

Game 7, Habs vs. Pens

A little something to get you in the mood for tonight's match.

- ER

Re. Blue Jays vs. Phillies

From BlueJays.com:


Major League Baseball announced today that the venue of the scheduled June 25-27 three-game Philadelphia Phillies-Toronto Blue Jays series has been relocated from Toronto's Rogers Centre to Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park because of the scheduled events of the G20 Summit in Toronto. The rescheduled games will still be considered home games of the Blue Jays, who will bat last, and the Designated Hitter will be used.

Major League Baseball announced the decision following consultations with the Blue Jays, the Phillies, the G20 Summit Management, the Integrated Security Unit and the City of Toronto.

Said Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig: "After considering all of the options with the parties, Major League Baseball has determined that the best course of action is to play the series in Philadelphia. Major League Baseball appreciates the cooperation of the Blue Jays, the Phillies and all of the parties who have helped resolve this challenging situation."

Rogers Sports Entertainment President and CEO Paul Beeston said: "This was an extremely difficult decision and one which we did not take lightly. By moving our games to Philadelphia, we are acting in the best interests of our fans, our employees, the players and the game of baseball. We did not want to move the games but in looking at the realities of this situation, we felt that relocation was the most prudent course of action."

The Friday, June 25 game will be scheduled for 7:05 p.m. (ET) and the Sunday, June 27 game will be scheduled for 1:35 p.m. (ET). The time of the Saturday, June 26 game is not yet finalized.


Smart move by MLB. Public safety is more important than turnstyle clicks.

- ER

From Russia with Film

Episode 25 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the inaugural Toronto Russian Film Festival; May 14-16

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: May 21, 2010

-ER

Re. Game 3, Pens vs. Habs

No explanation needed. Pittsburgh was the better team last night.

However, the series is far from over.

- ER

Re. Brett Cecil

Last night vs. Cleveland

IP - 8.0
H - 1
R - 1
ER - 1
BB - 2
SO - 10

One word to describe this performance: Brilliant.

He waited patiently to be called up from Las Vegas and now he's pleading his case for staying in the rotation. This is a classic example of taking advantage of an opportunity. If Cecil keeps this up, then there's no reason why he should be sent down.

- ER

Hockey Plays "What If"

I am sick and tired of those arrogant Stanley Cup ads. Here's why.

Agree or disagree?

- ER

PS: One word: Halak

NBA Playoff Predictions - Round 2

In round one, I was six out of eight. One perfect prediction.

Onto the second round:

Eastern Conference
Orlando in 6
Cleveland in 5

Western Conference
Phoenix in 7
Lakers in 6

- ER

NHL Playoff Predictions - Round Two

I was four out of eight in the first round. No perfect predictions. Damn you, Philadelphia and Boston. I'm sorry, Detroit. Thank you for proving me wrong, Montreal.

And now, the second round:

Eastern Conference
Boston over Philadelphia in 6
Montreal over Pittsburgh in 7

Western Conference
Detroit over San Jose in 7
Chicago over Vancouver in 7

NOTES: I admit, my prediction for Pens/Habs is completely biased. But you never know. As long as Halak keeps his great play up, anything can happen. Everything is reset for each round. Stats go out the window....I'm not sold about San Jose. It's one thing to beat a young Colorado team. It's a whole different thing trying to beat the experienced Red Wings.....Luongo is good. But if you rattle his confidence, you can take advantage of him.....Bruins/Flyers can go either way.

- ER

Round 2 Predictions

Lots to digest after last night. I'll save my official predictions for Friday. But I will give one prediction since Detroit/San Jose starts tonight:

Detroit over San Jose in 7

- ER

BRAVO CANADIENS!

(I'm so happy they proved me wrong)

Is it too early to start the "Halak for Conn Smythe" campaign?

- ER

As We Enter

This song has been playing in my head for the last two weeks:



- ER

Re. Habs/Caps, Game 6

Wow! It's almost 2004 all over again.

The Habs are now 13 wins away from their 25th Coupe Stanley.

Too soon?

- ER

The Baseball Leafs

Episode 24 of This Is Toronto is now available!

The Toronto Maple Leafs of the Intercounty Baseball League have been a part of the local sports scene since 1969. They are also one of the city's most successful franchises. Maple Leaf P.A. Announcer, Statistician and Fan 590 Sportscaster Roger Lajoie discusses the team and previews the 2010 IBL season.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

- ER

Re. Habs/Caps, Game 4

I don't want to talk about it.

It takes 60 minutes (or more) to win a hockey game. Not 40.

- ER

Re. Halak and Price

Halak or Price? Hmmm....maybe the Habs can synergize them?

- ER

Re. The Hamilton Bulldogs

The Bulldogs are the Canadiens' minor league affiliate. They had a really good season. But for some reason, no one in Hamilton seems to care.

So I asked the following question:

What's wrong with hockey fans in Hamilton?

- ER

NBA Playoff Predictions - Round One

Now that the Raptors won't be taking part, I don't have a lot of interest in the NBA playoffs. However, I will lay down some picks.

Eastern Conference

Cleveland in four
Orlando in five
Atlanta in six
Miami in six

Western Conference

Lakers in seven
San Antonio in seven
Phoenix in six
Denver in six

- ER

Re. 2009-10 Toronto Raptors

Don't hate the Chicago Bulls. The Raptors brought this upon themselves. No excuses here.

It was a very exhausting season. Quite frankly, I don't want to write about it. I can't remember a more frustrating season than this one. It's funny because I think I said the same thing about the '09 Blue Jays.

The Raptors' season can be summed up in three acts:

Act. 1 - The Bad (Start of season to early December)

Act. 2 - The Good (Early December to the All-Star break)

Act. 3 - The Ugly (All-Star break to end of season)

It was a total meltdown.

Let the post-mortem begin.

- ER

NHL Playoff Predictions - Round One

Yee-haw

Eastern Conference

Washington over Montreal in six
New Jersey over Philadelphia in seven
Buffalo over Boston in six
Pittsburgh over Ottawa in five

Western Conference

San Jose over Colorado in five
Chicago over Nashville in four
Vancouver over Los Angeles in four
Phoenix over Detroit in seven

NOTES: These are objective predictions. Subjectively, I'm rooting for my Habs. Part of me hopes I'm wrong about Washington/Montreal. The only way the Habs could win is if Halak stands on his head and the defense actually plays defense. The Habs would also have to take advantage of Theodore, who can be shaky at times...Looks like I'm a little more conservative with the East than I am with the West...Phoenix has crazy momentum, but getting past the Red Wings won't be easy...San Jose, don't let me down...Little worried about Chicago's goaltending, but I don't think it will hurt them.

- ER

Re. Blue Jays Home Opener

I'll see you at the Home Opener. And to those who are planning to show up to Skydome wasted and/or planning to start crap and/or planning to throw things on the field: STAY AT HOME, POSERS!

- ER

PS: I don't want to talk about the Raptors.

PPS: Playoff predictions coming soon.

Silver Screen L'Chaim

Episode #23 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition features a preview of the 18th annual Toronto Jewish Film Festival; Apr. 17-25

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Apr. 23, 2010

- ER

Re. Bucks, Bulls and Raptors

I am sending a huge THANK YOU gift to the Milwaukee Bucks. After that, I'm going to try to figure out a way to correct Bosh's facial fracture and get him back here asap. Has anyone seen my roll of duct tape and my box of popsicle sticks?

- ER

Re. Jason Frasor

Not to going to panic yet. Way too early to do that. I'm going to give him two more chances before I suggest a change. This isn't 2007 and he's not Mike Timlin. Hopefully, yesterday's game was a just a rarity.

- ER

Canada and the AHL

I've been thinking a lot about the American Hockey League. There's something romantic about it. Fortunately, I've been able to put my thoughts down on paper.

Enjoy.

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And we have a roster

2010 Blue Jays

Rotation
1. Shaun Marcum
2. Brian Tallet
3. Ricky Romero
4. Brandon Morrow
5. Dana Eveland

Bullpen
1. Jason Frasor
2. Kevin Gregg
3. Scott Downs
4. Shawn Camp
5. Casey Janssen
6. Jeremy Accardo
7. Merkin Valdez

Lineup
1. Jose Bautista, RF
2. Aaron Hill, 2B
3. Adam Lind, DH
4. Vernon Wells, CF
5. Lyle Overbay, 1B
6. Edwin Encarnacion, 3B
7. John Buck, C
8. Travis Snider, LF
9. Alex Gonzalez, SS

Bench
1. John McDonald, SS
2. Randy Ruiz, 1B/DH
3. Jose Molina, C
4. Mike McCoy, UTIL

- Not liking Tallet in the two-spot. He rarely pitches past five innings. I would've kept him at the 4 or 5 spot. Remember, Tallet in the rotation is only temporary.

- Skeptical about Dana Eveland. Spring Training is one thing, but the regular season is a whole different beast. However, I was skeptical last year when Romero made the team and look what happened there.

- Mike McCoy can play IF and OF. Perfect.

- Merkin Valdez. Don't really know what to expect. As long as he can give 1-2 solid innings, I'm happy.

That's all I've got for now.

- ER

The Grudge

A little math equation for you:

Vince Carter + Tracy McGrady + Raptor fans = The Grudge

Enjoy.

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Re. Hedo

Look, I don't care who's starting, who's coming off the bench and who's partying when they should be at home taking care of their stomach virus.

Just win.

That's all I want. Just win.

- ER

Raptor Rage

The Raptors were atrocious Sunday. They had Miami by the throat and let them get away. The loss to Denver was bad, but at least they gave an effort all the way to the end. Sunday was worse. That game made me really angry, giving me.....Raptor rage.

Right now, at this point, the Raptors will be lucky if they even make the playoffs.

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Toronto Museum Project

Episode #22 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

The story of Toronto goes back 11,000 years. However, there is no museum dedicated to our city's history. The Toronto Museum Project hopes to change that.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Apr. 9, 2010

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Re. The Raptors and Facebook

I really need to stop reading the comments on the Raptors' Facebook page. There are way too many psychos who post their thoughts. Lots of hate with very little logic.

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Re. Animaniacs

Dogs? Cats? Mice?

What the #$%@ were those things?

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Re. Nightstream

I miss Nightstream. It's still on CBC Radio 2, but it's changed.


I miss the Nightstream that had a DJ and played experimental and indie music. Now the experimental and indie stuff has been moved to the daytime and I'm left with a voiceless Nightstream, playing elevator/background music.


Now when it's late at night, I listen to Vinyl 95.3. It's alright. It plays some good cheesy pop songs; fits in with my guilty pleasures.


But it's no Nightstream.


- ER

Violence > Skill

I wasn't planning to comment on the increasing number of head shots in the NHL. But there was too much piss and vinegar inside of me. So, here's my two cents on the issue.

Enjoy!

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Birthday Mixtape 2010

1. Hallelujah - K.D. Lang
2. Fast Car - Tracy Chapman
3. Intervention - Arcade Fire
4. Jolene - Dolly Parton
5. New Slang - The Shins
6. Heart Like a Wheel - Kate and Anna McGarrigle
7. Fairytale of New York - The Pogues
8. Down Under - Men at Work
9. The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead - Crash Test Dummies
10. 463 - Buck 65
11. Wolf Like Me - TV on The Radio
12. Sorrow - Bad Religion
13. She Wolf - Shakira

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Today's (New) Lucky Number

06485635485735122133658694534256475534465758644444

Good luck.

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Re. Chris Bosh

Could we just chill on the Chris Bosh/free agency talk? Nothing is going to happen until the end of the season. I'd like every Raptor fan to step away from the ledge.

The team is in dire straights. They need to step it up. Chris Bosh will remain a Raptor until the end of the season and he's going to do what he's done this entire season: CB4 is going to work his butt off. He will not tank any game, nor will he caught back on the intensity. Bosh wants to win and he wants the Raptors to win.

Whatever happens in the summer, happens. We have no control over the situation. There's no point worrying about it now. The best thing to do is focus on the playoff drive.

Rant over.

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#VoteTO

Episode #21 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition features #VoteTO, a venue where people can offer ideas for the city and discuss the upcoming Municipal Election.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Mar. 26, 2010

Raptor vs. Cheerleader

- ER

Today's Lucky Number

846254957549500253447142163728383646

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Fight Like Matt

Here's a powerful article on Canadian Paralympian Matt Cook. It was written by Hockey54.com's Dahlia Kurtz.

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Re. Ryan Miller

It's almost been a week since Canada won the gold medal in hockey. While I'm proud of Syd and his teammates, I also feel really sad for Ryan Miller.

Why, you ask?

Well (cheap plug time), this new Hockey54.com article will tell you why.

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Re. The NHL Trade Deadline

Bah! The trading deadline is nothing more than a farce. As Brian Burke put it eloquently earlier today (and I'm paraphrasing), "If you're looking to make a big deal and make major changes to your team at this point in the season, you're in trouble."

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Five Things I Won't Miss About The Olympics

1. The "I Believe" theme song. I thought it was alright the first time I heard it. After hearing it a gazillion more times, my opinion changed.

2. The phrase "Own the Podium." Lock it up and throw away the key.

3. Commercials for Bell. They were very annoying. At least the RBC guy had some style.

4. Commercials for CTV's Olympic store. No, I don't want to buy a five-disc boxset, I don't want to buy an Olympic bib and I don't want to buy a customized stick. Stop asking!

5. Commercials for Ontario Tourism. The song and its arrangement is too predictable. I know there's no place like this. I live here! I'm in Ontario, y'all!

- ER

Re. Canada 3 USA 2

My oh my. Sometimes you're lucky, sometimes you're not. Yesterday, luck was on Canada's side.

To be honest, the winning goal caught me off guard. It happened so fast. I think there were a few people (like the CTV cameraman) who were also caught off guard. Nevertheless, Syd banked it in and Canada wins the gold.

This game could've gone either way. Full credit to the Americans. No one expected this from them. They played a great game and this is only the beginning for USA Hockey. Ryan Miller was outstanding. Despite the loss, he was the best player in this tournament.

As for Canada....what more can one say. Sydney Crosby didn't register a point in nine periods and no one will remember that. From this point forward, people will talk about Crosby's goal. Hopefully, we'll also talk about the contributions from Luongo, Towes and Getzlaf, who worked their tails off for our country.

- ER

Re. Canada 3 Slovakia 2

Yes, a rare Saturday post. I figure if Lloyd Robertson will do newscasts on the weekends during the Olympics, then I'm more than allowed to make a weekend post.

What happened in the third period cannot happen on Sunday. Seriously, my heart rate nearly hit 200bpm during the final minute. Canada took their foot off the accelerator and it nearly cost them. At this point in the tournament, you must floor it!

One thing we know for certain: Jaro Halak is going to make some sweet coin this summer.

Keys for Sunday: Create traffic in front of the net and aim high. That's the only way Canada is going to beat Ryan Miller and the USA.


Enjoy the game.

- ER

Comedy Makes Everything Better

Episode #20 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the 7th annual World of Comedy Film Festival; March 5-7

http://www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com/

NEXT EPISODE: Mar. 12, 2010

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Re. Canada vs. Slovakia

Short and sweet: The worst thing Canada can do is overlook Slovakia.

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Re. Canada 2 USA 0

The Oilers of the 80's, the Habs of the 50's-70's, the Canadian Women's Hockey Team.

When reflecting on the history of hockey, we place an emphasis on dynasties. As far as I'm concerned, the women's hockey team must be included in that category. 3x gold medal champions. How many teams/countries could pull that off? Very few. I think even the US Dream Team didn't pull that off.

This team is very special. While we all focus on the men, I hope we take a moment and recognize just how lucky we are to witness this legendary team in action.

One other thing: If I was running the Hockey Hall of Fame, Hailey Wickenheiser would be a shoo-in. Forget the 3-year waiting period. She's deserves to be there. Gretzky, Lemieux, Wickenheiser.

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Re. Canada 7 Russia 3

I am stunned. I was not expecting that kind of result. I thought it would be a 1-0, 2-1, 3-2 kind of game; maybe a shootout would be needed.

Team Canada was focused and dominated. They ignored all the hype, all the pressure and played a solid game. The main factor is Roberto Luongo. He's playing in his home arena and looks comfortable and confident. That is something that carries over to his teammates.

Next up: The Semi-Finals. But first: The gold-medal final for women's hockey. Go Canada Go!

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Re. Canada 8 Germany 2

I take back everything I said about Brodeur on Monday. Roberto Luongo must start against Russia tonight. I love Marty and thought he should start because of his experience in these types of situations. But experience doesn't always equal success.

Babcock has to stick with the hotter goaltender and in this case, it's Luongo.

Having said that...

Canada, don't plan the parade just yet. Russia is scary good. Tonight's match will be a war of attrition.

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Re. USA 5 Canada 3

That was quite the game. There are four things I want to say about it:

1. Ryan Miller......DAMN! Once again, we see why goaltending is sooooo crucial for this kind of tournament. Canada out shot the USA. The score could've been at least 7-5 for Canada. The Americans won because of Ryan Miller.

2. Canada, don't panic.

3. Stevie Y, if you're reading this, cut the cable and don't allow any newspapers into the hotel. Our boys don't need to see, watch or listen to all the craziness/panic/end of the world feeling that's about to take place.

4. Marty, it's a goalie stick, not a baseball bat. Next time, catch the puck and hold onto it. Had you done that, it would've been a different result. Babcock has two choices: he either plays Marty on Tuesday and then again for the quarterfinal match; or, he puts Luongo in on Tuesday and saves Marty for the quarterfinal match. If it was me, I'd go with the ladder. Marty still has it. But he's older and needs more rest than usual.

(Glad to get that off my chest. Thank you)

Meanwhile, my latest article from Hockey54.com is (possibly) the only North American feature on Team Norway. They might not be the best, but they deserve some attention, right?

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From Rudy Gay and Zach Randolph

overtime gives me stress
it's an ugly gift from memphis
five minutes of hell

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Re. Bernie Williams

8-0. That's a good way to start the tournament. Crosby, Iginla and Nash look dangerous.

And now for something completely different...

[Cheap Plug Alert] After a small hiatus, I've written a new article for TheGoodPoint.com. It's about former Yankee star Bernie Williams.

Enjoy!

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Re. Team Canada

Canada vs. Norway. Tonight's the night. All the dissection goes out the window once that puck is dropped.

Here's what I want to know:

How does a team come together in two short days?

Hopefully, we'll find out shortly.

Go Canada Go!

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Re. The Opening Ceremonies

Most of what I saw was pretty good. But there are some things about the opening ceremonies that I didn't like.

The torch lighting ceremony was a disappointment. It had nothing to do with who lit the torch. It was more about how it was done. First off, what is the point of having an indoor cauldron? BC Place is being used for two events: the opening and closing ceremonies. Why have an indoor cauldron when it won't be seen again for two weeks? It's a waste of space, money, and given the malfunction, an embarrassment.

On top of that, Wayne Gretzky had to stand on the back of a truck, in the pouring rain and get a lift to the outdoor cauldron, while all the drunk clubgoers ran next to the vehicle. The whole thing was poorly executed. VANOC could have handled that a lot better. Throw in some pomp and circumstance! Have a red carpet! Put up some guardrails! Instead, the most important part of the opening ceremonies was sloppy.

The Olympic flag was brought out by Bobby Orr, Barbara Ann Scott, Jacques Villeneuve, Betty Fox, Anne Murray, Donald Sutherland, Julie Payette and Romeo Dallaire. Orr, yes! Scott, yes! Villeneuve, yes! Fox, absolutely! Sutherland, Murray, Payette and Dallaire, no!

Don't get me wrong. Sutherland, Murray, Payette and Dallaire are people to be proud of. They're heroes. They're legends. But they shouldn't have been carrying the flag. That responsibility should go to Canadian athletes who have had enormous success on the world's stage. That's what usually happens during the opening ceremonies for any Olympic event - former athletes from the host country bring in the flag.

Where was Donavan Bailey, Daniel Igali, Silken Laumann, Mario Lemeiux, Elvis Stojko, etc? Did VANOC snub them or did these people have prior commitments.

One other thing.

CTV posted the video of Georgen luger Nodar Kumaritashvili crashing into the metal pole; a collision that would end the young man's life. I watched the video and felt terrible afterwards. Why would CTV post the last moments of this man's life on their website? That is a classless move.

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Radio Royal York

Episode #19 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition features Radio Royal York, a website and podcast that takes listeners behind the scenes at the Royal York and highlights the hotel's green action plan.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Feb. 26, 2010

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Ladies and Gentlemen, Tommy Emmanuel

You might recognize the song. Lisa Simpson played it for Lenny during the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant strike.



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Re. Bob Gainey

Lots of people are sharing their thoughts on Bob Gainey's resignation. Rather than adding my two cents to a penny-filled ocean, I will only say this:

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

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Re. Super Bowl XLIV

I have to admit: I got a little choked up watching the Saints win last night.

Nobody deserves this more than the Saints and the city of New Orleans. After everything that's happened in the last four years, it was beautiful to see Drew Brees lift that trophy over his head.

I'm a sucker for a good storyline. The city and the team gets knocked down by a horrible hurricane. They get up, rebuild and eventually find their way to the top. It's dramatic and inspiring. This victory will help the city in many ways.

Congratulations to the New Orleans Saints - Super Bowl Champions

PS: Pretty good halftime show. There's no better intro than the opening to The Who's Bubba O'Reilly.

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The Obligatory Super Bowl Prediction

Saints by.......10 points.

That's all I've got.

Enjoy the game.

- ER

Cleveland Rocks! (But not with the NHL)

Before the Columbus Blue Jackets, there was the Cleveland Barons. Yes, the NHL tried to establish a market in Ohio in the mid-late 70's. It failed.

To learn more (cheap plug time), check out my latest H54 article.

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Hurt

Damn...

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Re. Andy Barrie

Andy Barrie is by far one of my favourite radio personalities. He's got this ability to do interviews in a non-attacking style, but still manages to ask important questions. I was sad when he announced yesterday that he's leaving Metro Morning. But I understand why he's leaving and I'm sure the other listeners understand too. He'll be missed, but not forgotten.

Here's the Toronto Star's article about his departure.

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