Cool As Ice

I'm on a Vanilla Ice kick right now. Having said that...



"Drop the zero and get with the hero."

- ER

Re. Tampa Bay Lightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning are the most dangerous team in the NHL. If you're not convinced, I've written down ten reasons why everyone should watch out for lightning strikes.

Enjoy!

- ER

Re. Canadian Politics and Lingerie

Did I hear right?

Mike Ignatieff likes lacy lingerie?

The Leader of the Opposition is kinky.

The explanation.

- ER

Re. 10-day Contracts

The NBA is the only pro league in North America that offers 10-day contracts?

My latest article from TheGoodPoint.com explains this unique agreement.

- ER

Re. The 12-game Losing Streak

The only good thing about the Raptors' 12-game losing streak: Cleveland is on a 21-game losing streak.

The glass....she is half-full.

- ER

Shakespeare In The City

Episode 44 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features the Spur-of-the-Moment Shakespeare Collective, a group of Toronto actors who strive to make the works of William Shakespeare more accessible.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Feb. 11, 2011

Re. Vernon Wells & Mike Napoli

Just as I'm about to express my thoughts on the Vernon Wells trade, Alex Anthopoulos pulls the trigger on another trade. Guess I'll have to go trade-by-trade even if they're related.

Vernon Wells for Mike Napoli and Juan Rivera

I was completely caught off guard by this trade. But I shouldn't feel that way. Wells' massive contract was hurting Toronto's growth. Trading him frees up $86 million, which will come in handy for resigning Jose Bautista (if he continues to perform as well as he did in 2010) and going after free agents.

Napoli and Rivera are good players. But their arrivals create a cluttered lineup. Assuming the outfield will have Travis Snider, Rajai Davis and Bautista, where does Rivera go? You could put Bautista at third and Rivera in right. But Bautista has a great arm that is better suited for the outfield. And if Bautista goes to third, where would that put Edwin Encarnacion?

It was clear there needed to be another trade and sure enough...

Mike Napoli for Frank Francisco

I don't like it and at the same time, I like it.

Napoli - had he stayed - would be a great weapon, especially against lefthanders. He would've mostly been used as a DH and first baseman. He is originally a catcher, but he'd only get behind the plate if JP Arencibia or Jose Molina got hurt. Of course, it wasn't meant to be.

Francisco brings another strong arm to the bullpen. A stronger bullpen will take some pressure off the starting rotation. Francisco's also another candidate to be the Blue Jays' next closer. It's going to be an intense competition in Dunedin for those 7-8 spots in the 'pen this year.

The lineup is still cluttered. I think there will be at least one more trade.

One more thing about Vernon

I will certainly miss him. It's hard to believe he was here for 12 years. Wells was a great player. There were times when he could've been better. You can blame the injuries if you wish. Regardless, he tried his best and was a wonderful ambassador.

- ER

Re. Headshots

There's an epidemic in the NHL. It's called (or more like "they're called") headshots.

But don't worry. I have a few ideas for a cure.

- ER

PS: I'm still trying to digest the Vernon Wells trade. I'll post something soon.

Lightning In a Bottle

I made a comic strip!

It's about hockey and features The Schwartz.



- ER

Re. Jon Rauch

Not a bad signing by the Blue Jays. Rauch picked up 21 saves with Minnesota last year.

Based on this signing, here's how the bullpen might look this year:

- Camp
- Purcey
- Jannsen
- Rauch
- Dotel
- Zep
- Villenueva

Don't forget about Chad Cordero, Jessie Carlson and Josh Roenicke either. You can even include Scott Richmond and Dustin McGowan.

The closer spot is still up for grabs. Right now, it's likely to come down to Dotel and Rauch.

- ER

Neighbourhood Art

Episode 43 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features MABELLEarts, an organization that uses art to bring residents of the diverse Mabelle community in Etobicoke together.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Jan. 28, 2011

- ER

Re. Sportsnet Radio Fan 590

It's no longer The Fan 590. It's now Sportsnet Radio Fan 590.

Seriously?! Really?! Are you kidding me?!

Whatever happened to the idea of Keep it simple, Stupid? Fan 590 was simple and easy to remember. It - forgive the cliche - rolled off the tongue. This new "brand" is a mouthful and completely takes away The Fan's local identity.

To be fair, Rogers isn't the first media conglomerate that's using a uniformed/cookie-cutter approach with all its stations. But putting it under the Sportsnet banner takes away the station's character.

Sure, the programs on Fan Toronto are different than Fan Calgary. But now there's nothing that establishes it as a Toronto sports station. It's just the radio-arm of Sportsnet.

I will still listen to the station, but I'm very disappointed. I will grin and bear it; the same way I grin and bare going to the Skydome and seeing the giant "Rogers Centre" sign.

- ER

Re. Sir John A. Macdonald

A very HAPPY and BELATED Birthday to Sir John A. Macdonald!

Yesterday, Sir John turned 196 years young. The man's had a very accomplished life.

- First Prime Minister of Canada
- Father of Confederation
- Built a railway across the nation
- Social Drinker
- Blue Jays Infielder

You know, I was thinking - Canadians should get the day off in honour of Sir John's birthday.

Who's with me?

- ER

Re. Snooki and Linden MacIntyre

I have felt tempted to read Snooki's novel, A Shore Thing. Up until Saturday, I have successfully resisted this temptation.

But then, Linden MacIntyre - CBC Journalist (The Fifth Estate), Giller Prize winner - convinced me to pick up this book.

Just listen to these excerpts - as read by MacIntyre - and tell me if I'm wrong.

- ER

Re. The Manning Pout

I've written about Peyton Manning before. So what I'm about to say shouldn't be a surprise:

There's something about seeing Peyton Manning lose that makes me smile.

Is that a terrible thing to say?

- ER

WJC Final: Russia 5 Canada 3

The collapse is complete.

The blunder in Buffalo.

From Russia with puck.

No explanation needed. Canada took their foot off the gas.

Look at the bright side: Canada gets a nice, shiny silver medal.

And remember, it's just a hockey game and it's a beautiful planet.

- ER

Athletes of the Year

Myself and several writers from TheGoodPoint.com packed ourselves into a small room - with no heat or electricity - and came up with...

The Good Point's 2010 Athletes of the Year!

Our selections are a collective winner. It's true.

- ER

More Good News

Episode 42 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition revisits Good News Toronto, a not-for-profit newspaper that features inspirational stories and celebrates everyday heroes.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Jan. 14, 2010

Happy New Year!

- ER

Help me remember a certain 80s cartoon

I can't remember the name of this cartoon I use to watch.

It's from the 80s. Had three heroes; all soldiers. One wore a green uniform, the other blue and the other yellow. They all had different modes of transportation; jet pack for one, motorcycle for the other, etc. I think they all had animals on the front of their uniforms.

Any ideas?

- ER

Holiday Hockey Hullabaloo

For your Christmas/Holiday reading pleasure, I give you another installment of Zamboni Ramblings.

The latest targets:

- The National Hockey League Players' Association; aka the NHLPA
- The IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships
- Bruce F***ing Boudreau
- Calgary Teddy Bears

Let the bodies hit the floor.

- ER

Dirty Bit

And now......my latest guilty pleasure.

Please don't hate me.

- ER

Re. Guitar Chords

There is nothing on this planet that I despise more than the F-Major chord.

That is one tough chord. I keep getting dead strings. And I'm pushing down as hard as I can.

In a perfect world, I wouldn't have to worry about F-Major. However, the chord is apparently used in many songs.

Any tips?

- ER

Complain Away!

Episode 41 of This Is Toronto is now available!

Harbourfront Centre's World Stage is forming a Complaints Choir. Anyone can participate, whether it's complaining, singing or doing both.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Dec. 31, 2010

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Dealing with the Mob

And now, a short story written by yours truly.

It was inspired by a certain coach of a certain hockey team that plays in a certain Canadian city.

Hope you like it.

- ER

Taking a cheap shot at the Minnesota Vikings

The Metrodome is a lot like the Vikings' defense. It has a big hole in it.

Hiyo!

- ER

For those who live in Thornhill, Ont.

The Thornhill Community Centre will be closed from now until Monday, Dec. 13. The building will re-open at noon. Tell your friends.

- ER

One Night in Bangkok

And now...a classic!



- ER

Re. Marcum for Lawrie

I was very disappointed when I found out Shaun Marcum was traded to Milwaukee. I liked the guy. He was a good quality starter and a solid mentor for the rest of the rotation. He's a warrior; coming back from Tommy John surgery is not an easy thing to do.

The trade certainly coincides with AA's M/O: The younger, the better. I hope the pressure of being a Canadian playing for the Blue Jays doesn't get to Lawrie. Hate to see him become another Corey Koskie.

With all this in mind, here's what Toronto's lineup could look like next year:

1B - Lind
2B - Lawrie
3B - Hill
SS - Escobar
LF - Davis
CF - Wells
RF - Bautista
C - Arencibia
DH - Snider

Starters: Romero, Cecil, Morrow, Mills, Drabek

Bullpen: Camp, Purcey, Zep, Jannsen, Roenicke, Villaneueva, Carlson

Bench: McDonald, Molina, McCoy, Mastroianni

There can be some modifications here and there. There's also a few players in the minors who could find a spot on the main roster. Time will tell...

- ER

Border Patrol

Episode 40 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features the Border Patrol Reading Series, a unique literary event that celebrates the longest undefended border in the world.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Dec. 17, 2010

- ER

NHL Epic Fail

The new format for the NHL All-Star Game is an absolute farce!

Fortunately, I can fix the all-star game and I offer my services for free (for now).

Here's how.

Pay attention, NHL. Are you listening?!

- ER

Re. Grey Cup 2010

Some short thoughts:

Congrats to the Alouettes! It was a very close affair.

Missed it? That's too bad. It was a great game.

Anthony Calvillo is a warrior.

- ER

Re. The Grey Cup

I told my Editor at TheGoodPoint.com that I wanted to write an article about the Grey Cup. He gave me his blessings and commended me on my bravery.

Bravery-shmavery!

The Grey Cup is a cultural event. It's a match that features pure football without the over-hyped glitz and glamour of the Super Bowl.

So far my Grey Cup article, I try to convince American football fans and apathetic Canadians to watch the game. I think they'll like what they see.

And for the record, I'm picking Montreal.

- ER

Re. Reggie Evans

He might not be the best player on the Raptors, but Evans is creating a huge cult following. He's vocal and aggressive. That's something Toronto sports fans love.

- ER

Sunday, 5:16am

My body enjoys

punishing my mind so early

in the harsh morning


- ER

Indie Theatre Project

Episode 39 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features THESP, an organization dedicated to the continuing development of Toronto's indie theatre scene.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Dec. 3, 2010

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Re. the Los Angeles Clippers

So the good people at TheGoodPoint.com allowed me to write an article about the LA Clippers. In it, I question how the Clippers survive in a city that seems to care more about the LA Lakers than anything else.

Enjoy!

- ER

Spending some time with Q107

To truly enjoy Classic Rock, you must listen to it late at night; when you can't sleep, say 3-4-5am.

That's my tip for you.

- ER

Re. Sidney Crosby (again)

Sid got into a fight last week and I have a few things to say about it.

- ER

Re. Jay Triano

Jay Triano's execution is imminent. Place your bets now. I say....Thursday.

Fans knew the Raptors would not be a winning team. They knew this team would finish well below 500. However, fans expected a better effort than what is being shown. Toronto is a club with some spark, but no fire. More "Hyde" than "Jekyll."

This can't go on forever.

- ER

The Art in Fusion

Episode 38 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features the Toronto Masque Theatre and previews the organization's 7th season.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Nov. 19, 2010

- ER

Re. Brett Favre

My friends...

I firmly believe that Brett Favre should never retire. He should play football forever.

Think I'm crazy? Well, read this and let me know if you still think I'm crazy.

- ER

MLB Playoffs: Final Thoughts

I watched the San Francisco Giants play the Blue Jays this past June. They were a good team, but they sure didn't look like a team that would go on to win the World Series.

The Giants didn't have the best batting lineup, but it didn't matter. They had a phenomenal pitching staff led by Tim Lincecum. San Fran's starters silenced a very strong Texas Ranger lineup. They made players like Josh Hamilton and Vladdy Guerrero look normal. SF's pitchers stepped up and provided an enormous amount of confidence for their hitters.

The Giants were in and out of playoff contention all season long. But when "clutch time" arrived, they answered the call and have been awarded for their effort.

Finally, to sum up: 4 out of 7 = 57% Started out strong, but wasn't expecting the Giants to go far. Like I said yesterday, I should've listened to my gut.

- ER

Giants Capture World Series Title

Why?

Why did I pick the Texas Rangers?

I should've listened to my gut.

Tim Lincecum......DAMN!

Final thoughts tomorrow.

- ER

Caution: Rambling Zamboni

Zamboni Ramblings has made its first regular season appearance.

As usual, nobody is safe.

- ER

Snooki and the Pittsburgh Pirates

Ladies and gentlemen,

I give you the next manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates: Snooki

- ER

MLB Playoff Predictions - The World Series

I was right about Texas, but incredibly wrong about Philadelphia.

2010 World Series

Texas over San Francisco in six

This was a hard decision to make. The Rangers and Giants have great pitching, with the edge going to San Fran. However, Texas has a better batting lineup, which will lead them to the title.

Pitching will always be the most important part of baseball. But pitching cannot be the sole contribution to a victory. A team still needs to swing the bats. It takes great pitching and great hitting to win. Texas is closer to that than San Francisco.

- ER

Murray 4 Mayor

Episode 37 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features Steve Murray, Toronto's most unique "Mayoral Candidate."

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Nov. 5, 2010

- ER

A (brutal) Joke

Why do vampires avoid the stock market?

Because there's too much at steak.

Booyah!

- ER

Re. The Champlaine Bridge

If you were driving on Montreal's Champlain Bridge Saturday around 5pm and saw two people pushing a dead car in the right-hand lane....that was me and my uncle. Thanks for not running us over.

And a big THANK YOU to the person who used his van to push the broken vehicle to the nearest exit. My family really appreciates it.

- ER

MLB Playoff Predictions - League Championship Series

In the first round, I was three out of four. Of the three, one was a perfect prediction. I knew the Twins wouldn't have enough to beat the Yankees, but I didn't expect them to just roll over. Wow.

Onto the next round:

American League Championship Series

Texas over New York in seven

National League Championship Series

Philadelphia over San Francisco in six

NOTES: If you're like me and love the art of pitching, then you are going to enjoy the next few days. The LCS will feature the best pitchers in the game and they will dominate. Hate to be the hitters right now...The Rangers, a team known more for their hitting, has made it to the ALCS because of Cliff Lee and CJ Wilson. As long as those two keep doing what they're doing and the Rangers' bats stay hot, Texas will win its first pennant. New York has Sabathia, which is why the series will be close...The Giants have Lincecum, Cain and Sanchez. The Phillies have Halladay, Oswalt and Hamels. Advantage Philadelphia. Another pennant is coming to the city of brotherly love.

- ER

Re. The Social Network

The Social Network is an exaggerated interpretation of a true story. Make sure you take everything with a grain of salt.

However, it's entertaining; a bit of a dark comedy.

It's also a humbling experience for me.

Mark Zuckerberg and I are around the same age. We were 2nd year University students at the same time (Fall 2003; when Facebook was created). I'm running around Carleton, writing sports articles, growing my hair out and thinking I'm a poet. Meanwhile, Zuckerberg is running around Harvard creating a $25 billion company.

Man, where did I go wrong?

- ER

Re. Leafs Nation

For your consideration....

A Habs fan helps Leafs Nation.

I'm here to help.

- ER

I am an Artist. I vote.

Episode 36 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features ArtsVote Toronto, a group of volunteers who ensure the arts have a presence during the municipal election

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Oct. 22, 2010

- ER

My Blue Jays Wish List

- Travis Snider plays every day next season

- J.P. Arencibia plays every day next season

- Alex Anthopoulous finds a better third baseman than Edwin Encarnacion. Could be someone currently on the team (Bautista, Aaron Hill) or someone acquired via trade or free agency. Nothing against Encarnacion - he has potential at the plate, but is lousy in the field.

- A stronger and clearly defined bullpen. The only players I see being in the 'pen next year are Shawn Camp and David Purcey. Those two should be Toronto's 7th and 8th inning set up men. The remaining five spots, including the closer, are up for grabs. I will be very surprised if Scott Downs, Jason Frasor and Brian Tallet are back with the team in 2011. If I had to keep one, it would be Downs.

- A fifth starter from the following group: Shawn Hill, Marc Rzepczynski and Kyle Drabek.

- Keep the following backups: John McDonald, Dwayne Wise and Jose Molina.

- A designated hitter. I can see Lind in that spot if they don't move him to first, Buck if AA resigns him or Encarnacion if he can do what he did during the final week of the season.

- ER

PS: Congrats to Roy Halladay. What a performance!

MLB Playoff Predictions - League Division Series

American League Division Series

Tampa Bay over Texas in four
New York over Minnesota in five

National League Division Series

Philadelphia over Cincinnati in three
San Francisco over Atlanta in five

NOTES: I can't see the Twins winning without Morneau. They're still a good team, but he's a valuable piece to the puzzle...The Rangers and Reds had great seasons, but they're about to run out of gas...The Braves got in by the skin of their teeth. They're just as good as the Giants, but San Fran's pitching is better and that's why they'll move on.

- ER

Blue Jay Awards

Best hitter: Jose Bautista

Best fielder: Jose Bautista

Best starter: Brett Cecil

Best reliever: Shawn Camp

Overall, it was a very pleasant season. However, it's important to be cautiously optimistic for 2011. There are problems that need to be addressed (more on that later this week).

- ER

This Is Toronto - Facebook Fan Page

This Is Toronto, the podcast dedicated to Toronto's arts and culture community, now has a FACEBOOK FAN PAGE.

The fan page will offer many more features. It's also a better way for Torontonians to connect with each other and discuss art and culture.

Join the movement and tell all your friends.

- ER

Re. Cito Gaston

As far as I'm concerned, Cito Gaston deserves to be in the Baseball Hall-of-Fame.

- Two World Series titles
- Two American League pennants
- Four AL East titles
- Over 800 wins

I rest my case.

Here is Cito in his own words, thanking the fans. True class.

- ER

Re. C.C. Sabathia

DAMN!

Sabathia showed Kyle Drabek how it's done.

However, I still think the playoffs will not be kind to the Yankees.

- ER

Re. A.J. Burnett

It amazes me how such an inconsistent pitcher can make so much money.

The playoffs will not be kind to the Yankees.

- ER

Marlies Nation

Episode 35 of This Is Toronto is now available!


Not only are the Toronto Marlies the top minor-league affiliate of the Maple Leafs, they're also heavily involved in the community. Marlies Play-by-Play Announcer John Bartlett talks about the team and the contributions the players make on and off the ice.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com


NEXT EPISODE: Oct. 8, 2010


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Re. Launy Schwartz, The Score and Drafted

Last night, Launy Schwartz was disqualified from Gillette Drafted.

An anonymous tipster accused The Schwartz of breaching the rules of his contract with The Score.

Here is Launy's official stance on the matter.

I know Launy. He would never break kayfabe or break any rule that would hurt his reputation.

- ER

Leave those shootouts alone!

After the over-glorified hockey summit in August, everyone is hatin' on the shootout all of a sudden. However, I have a solution that will appease shootout lovers and haters.

Enjoy!

- ER

Re. A Portrait of The Artist as a Young Man

There were some scenes I really enjoyed. There were also some scenes that dragged on. Overall, it was a good story. There were times I could relate to Stephen, the main character.

Personally, I think I would've appreciated the book more during my early twenties. That's how old Stephen is when everything in the plot comes together.

Next book: Briefing For a Descent into Hell by Doris Lessing

I think it's about the Maple Leafs, post-1967. Hiyoooo!

- ER

Kevin Brown vs. Kevin Brown

My latest from TheGoodPoint.com.

You will not believe how many Kevin Browns are out there. Ditto for John Tavares (plural) and Alex Gonzalez(s).

- ER

I Vote Toronto

Episode 34 of This Is Toronto is now available!

'I Vote Toronto' is a collection of individuals who want current voting laws to change. According to the organization's website, there are more than 200,000 eligible voters who are not legally allowed to vote in the upcoming municipal election.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Sept. 24, 2010

- ER

Re. Dawna Friesen

Is it me or does Dawna Friesen come off really pretentious in those Global National ads?

- ER

Re. George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight

I have to be honest. I'm not liking the new name

‎"George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight" = Generic and lame.

Seriously, what's so bad about "The Hour?"

- ER

Today's Thought

"Reproduction is the beginning of death." - Joyce

- ER

Re. Jersey Shore

Angelina, Sammi & Jeniwow.

Are they triplets?

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My City Lives

Episode 33 of This Is Toronto is now available!

This latest edition features My City Lives, a website that allows Torontonians to upload videos about their favourite parts of the city.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Sept. 10, 2010

- ER

Re. Bulldogs and Marlies

The American Hockey League has released its 2010-11 regular season schedule.

Here are the schedules for the Hamilton Bulldogs and Toronto Marlies.

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Re. Batman

I watched Batman (1989) on Saturday. It is still, by far, the best film involving Batman.

I did enjoy The Dark Knight, but all the hype was clouding my judgement. It's still a good film, but not as good as the Keaton/Nicholson/Burton version.

This is how I'd currently rank the films:

1. Batman
2. The Dark Knight
3. Batman Begins
4. Batman Returns
5. Batman Forever
6. Batman and Robin

One other thing....

Jack Nicholson was a better Joker than Heath Ledger.

I know Heath won an Oscar, but he wasn't as good as Jack (at least in my mind). Put it this way: Heath had the look. Jack had the character.

- ER

Re. Jose Bautista

Mr. Bautista hit homeruns #39 and #40 last night. He's seven away from the Blue Jays' all-time, single-season mark (47 by George Bell).

For the last few weeks, I've felt that Detroit's Miguel Cabrera should receive the AL MVP award.

But now......I'm wondering..........dare I say it?

Jose Bautista - 2010 AL MVP (?)

- ER

As The Seasons Change

- Tomas Kaberle
- The AHL
- Hockey Poetry

Looks like the Zamboni is rambling again.

- ER

AHL & CBC

The CBC announced it will broadcast ten American Hockey League matches during the upcoming 2010-11 season. All ten games will feature the four Canadian AHL clubs, as well as Binghamton (Ottawa) and Oklahoma City (Edmonton).

Perhaps my Hockey54.com article on the AHL inspired the deal (just kidding).

Regardless, this a smart move by the CBC.

- ER

Keep on Schwartzin'

After getting featured in The Liberal, Launy was interviewed by the Canadian Jewish News.

Drafted 2 premiers on September 14 at 1opm on The Score.

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Re. Karri Ramo

Goalie for goalie.

The Canadiens have sent Cedrick Desjardins - who spent most of his time in Hamilton - to Tampa Bay for Karri Ramo.

Desjardins, along with colleague Curtis Sanford, posted the lowest combined GAA in the AHL last season.

Ramo, who played for Omsk in the KHL, was sixth in GAA and was in a fourth-place tie for shutouts. His overall record in 44 games was 21-17-4. He also played 48 NHL games for Tampa from 2006-2009. Ramo's NHL record: 11-21-10.

Judging by the posts on Twitter, Habs fans aren't happy.

Hands up if you think Karri Ramo will be the next Georges Vezina!

- ER

Made In Your Neighborhood

Episode 32 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

The Freedom Clothing Collective is an eco-friendly store that supports local artists and designers. However, it's more than just a clothing store.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: Aug. 27, 2010

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Raptors 2010-11 Schedule

The NBA/Raptors have released their 2010-11 regular season schedule.

Important dates:

Oct. 27 - Season opener vs. New York

Mar. 4-5 - Two games against New Jersey in London, England

Feb. 16 and April 13 - CB4 returns to the ACC

Feb. 25 - Turk returns to the ACC

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Zamboni Ramblings - The Return

Yes, the Zamboni is still rambling.

Nobody is safe; especially the cast of Inception, the Chicago Blackhawks and BGL.

- ER

Re. Arencibia & Morrow

What an incredible weekend for the Blue Jays. Two well-pitched games and one match with a football-esque score. They also manage to sweep the wild-card leading Rays and that's not even the important part of story.

Brandon Morrow's performance on Sunday was a true masterpiece.

17 strikeouts, one hit and a complete game shutout. He was just one out away from Toronto's first no-hitter in almost 20 years. Unfortunately, he fell short of the no-hit bid and Dave Stieb, after all this time, still stands alone.

The one-hitter should not overshadow Morrow's outing. It was an incredible display of pitching and shows just how good this young hurler can be. And to think, all AA had to give up for Morrow was Brendon League.

Full marks also have to be given out to Vernon Wells for that sensational catch and Jose Molina for keeping everything intact.

***

Forgive the cliche, but J.P. Arencibia's debut on Saturday was one for the ages.

Two homeruns, a double and a single. That's what I would call a good start.

I've always been skeptical when players like Arencibia are described as prospects or studs. However, the hype surrounding Arencibia is holding true. Of course, it's one game and before we start to anoint the young catcher as a future hall-of-famer, let's see what else he can do.

In the past seven days, the Jays took two out of three from the Yankees and swept Tampa. If you're a Blue Jays fan, you can't help but feel optimistic about the future.

- ER

PS: The Zamboni is rambling again.

Heart and Soul

VH1 did a five-part series on the top 100 one-hit wonders from the 1980's. Quite a few tunes from the series are now floating in my head, including this one:

T'Pau - Heart and Soul

Such soft vocals and then.......T'PAU!!!!

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Re. Ricky Romero vs. NYY last night

Damn!

And here I thought Romero always seemed to pitch poorly against AL East opposition. Good time to adapt and change.

Actually, it was a great team effort. Almost everybody chipped in and given the last few seasons, that doesn't happen frequently for the Blue Jays.

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Toronto After Dark

Episode 31 of This Is Toronto is now available!!!

This latest edition previews the 5th annual Toronto After Dark Film Festival; Aug. 13-20.

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

NEXT EPISODE: Aug. 13, 2010

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Blue Jays vs. TFC

Mark down this date: July 27, 2010

The Blue Jays defeated the Baltimore Orioles 8-2. About 16,000 people were at the Skydome.

Toronto FC beat CD Motagua 1-0. About 18,000 people were at BMO Field.

To quote Bob Dylan, "The times, they are a changin'."

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Zamboni Ramblings

(Cheap Plug Alert)

The answer: Lebron James, Chris Bosh, Dwayne Wade, Lindsay Lohan, Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Ryan Miller, Ilya Kovalchuk and Launy Schwartz.

The question: Who appears in my latest Hockey54.com article?

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Mos Def

Mos Def gives a little freestyle.

It's all on the spot. Incredible.

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Draft The Schwartz

Unfortunately, I'm not a top ten finalist for season two of Drafted.

But...

I'm very happy to report that my fellow Hockey54.com colleague (and he's the co-owner of the site too) LAUNY SCHWARTZ has made it to the top ten.

As far as I'm concerned, The Schwartz is Canada's next sportscaster. He will "Be Like Brothers."

The Score has chosen wisely.

- ER

Two Short Film Reviews

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus: 4 stars. Incredible imagery. The story flies off the rails. However, it's a Terry Gilliam film, so that's expected.

I watched Dr. Parnassus to prepare for...

Inception: 4.5 stars. IN-FREAKING-CREDIBLE! I highly recommend it. It's a long film (2.5 hours), but it keeps your interest.

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Late Night in the Bedroom

Episode 30 of This Is Toronto is now available.

This latest edition profiles Late Night in the Bedroom, an online talk show that features local artists, musicians and cultural players.

www.thisistorontopodcast.blogspot.com

NEXT EPISODE: July 30, 2010

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The Trades

A Raptor trade and a Blue Jay trade, all in the same day? I thought my poor head was going to explode. Some notes about both transactions:

Blue Jays

- The second Alex Gonzalez era has ended. Sorry to see him go, but his value is at its highest point and won't go any higher.

- Yunel Escobar has potential, but he's slumping and said to have off-field issues. Perhaps a change of location will lead to positive results.

- For the Blue Jays, this trade was about the future. For the Braves, this trade was about adding additional parts.

- Don't really have anything to say about the minor leaguers exchanged in the deal. Personally, I feel all minor leaguers are gambles. Labelling prospects is a waste of time.

Raptors

- Bye Turk.

- Barbosa is coming off an injury-plagued season. Wrists injuries can really affect a career. So forgive me for being a little skeptical.

- Barbosa, DeRozan, Calderon, Jack. One of these four won't be here in the fall. My guess (reluctantly) is Jose.

- Dwayne Jones will likely spend most of his time on the bench.

Something tells me BC & AA aren't done.

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George Steinbrenner: 1930-2010

Likable or not, Mr. Steinbrenner was extremely successful.

In honour of the late Yankee owner:



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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.




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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