Weird & Whacked Wednesday Part I

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Another Wednesday - another look back at the some of the "interesting" stories that made headlines. For those of you who haven't been here before, Wednesday entries take a look back at the "notable newsmakers" from the world of sports over the past week or so. The stories generally fall under the category of weird or whacked, with the select few eclipsing the aforementioned to set the bar as low as downright silly or just plain dumb. As always, I'll let you decide where you think they fit.

SOCCER

THE DAMN FRENCH
Members of the French National Team (formerly known as Arsenal) have criticized soccer fans in Paris for booing the team in recent friendlies - the latest being a 1-0 victory over Mexico. Arsenal's striker Thierry Henry was one of the players who called out the Parisiens; Henry claims that the treatment the team receives in Paris is unheard of in England, where "even when (Arsenal) is losing at Highbury, the fans keep cheering and supporting us." Leave it to the damn French to boo most of the team - but reserve their cheers for Zidane, a crapper if there ever was one. Another French player suggested that "Les Bleus" not play in Paris anymore - saying that crowd in Marseille, St. Etienne and Lens are much more supportive and deserving of watching them play.

File this one under just plain dumb - on both sides. First, for professional players who complain about being booed; with fans paying upwards of $100 to watch the kind of soccer France has played in recent years...they have every right to boo the team - suck it up fellas, it happens to the best of them. Secondly, to fans who pay all this money to boo their National team - what's up with that? Why not just stay home, go get drunk...or do what fans of the SenaTards do? (Stay up all night and flood the sports radio station with whining calls about how much the team let them down) Oh yeah...cheering Zidane? On behalf of my man Figo - I'm NOT feelin' that at all.

GET OUT...AND STAY OUT!
That crusty old Scot Sir Alex Ferguson made headlines last week when Manchester United announced that they had fired Mike Stone, the Red Devils team doctor. While there was no definitive reason given, reports suggest that Ferguson had held Stone responsible for some of the positive reports about Rooney's progress. Stone had been treating Rooney for his broken foot, with all seemingly going well - England's team doctor has stated Rooney could be ready for the round of 16 at the World Cup. Ferguson has been doing his best to rain all over England's parade, suggesting that Rooney isn't fit enough to play and should stay in England. Ferguson is of the belief that team and paycheque comes before representing your country. Read the story...its British soccer at its best.

File this one under weird. You fire the man who is responsible for treating your star player - because he has done such a good job that the player might be ready to play on the world's biggest stage. Hey Fergie, Chelsea is ready to welcome Shevchenko - a healthy Rooney won't make a difference next year, Jose and Co. win another title. Funny sign seen in Germany - "Rooney is coming - lock up your grannies." If you haven't heard about the tumultous past of Wayne Rooney, you don't know what you are missing.


ST. LOUIS - SOCCER HOTBED OF THE USA
Ladies and Gentlemen - meet Tom Timmerman of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Tom, who covers soccer for the paper, is a shining example of how North Americans just don't get it when it comes to soccer. His story (believe me, it IS a story) starts out on the right path talking about Brazil being the favourite at this year's World Cup - they are always one of the favourites. I think Tom was stumped after his initial two paragraphs and dug through the archives to find a World Cup recap from the 80's. Tom warns that Italy, Germany, Argentina and England are threats - maybe in the past Tom. While you impressed with your google search, throwing out names like:

• Crespo "who plays for one of the top teams in the world" - yes Tom, but Hernan had trouble cracking the lineup;
  
  
• Totti "who is recovering from a broken foot" - and multiple brain cramps;
  
  
• Rooney and Owen who are both recovering from injuries - and the "pinpoint" passes of Beckham (who hasn't done anything of note on the world stage or in Spain in the last few years);
  
  
• Ballack who is a great player - "though Germany isn't fielding one of its stronger teams";
  

File this one under just plain dumb. Tom, your assessment of this year's World Cup highlighted four potential threats who have been sliding down the rankings over the last few years. Germany would have been hard pressed to qualify if they weren't the home team - they make round of 16, that's about it. Argentina has not beaten anyone of substance in a few years - their qualifying round in South America was by all accounts - uninspiring. Italy is in the same boat, they will find a way to self destruct - and if they try to pull their traditional World Cup opening round stunt of tying their way into the round of 16, they will be gone in the qualifying round. Tom...buddy. England? Can I point you to a site called soccernet? Both strikers recovering from a broken foot - and you pick Beckham? Have you heard of a guy named Steven Gerrard? Frank Lampard maybe?

Here's a hint - after Brazil, you want to be looking at Portugal (of course), the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, maybe Spain or Serbia and Montenegro. If you want a dark horse, the Ivory Coast. Tom, go back to covering the exploits of Albert Pujols - or maybe you'd prefer to cover Lou Brock, Bob Gibson and Dizzy Dean.

Late start tonight gang, and I have an early day tomorrow - back on Thursday with more on:

- the SenaTards, the Bruins and the Maple Leafs (they just overpaid for McCabe)

- Rick Tocchett and Janet Gretzky are like a young couple "thinking of getting pregnant" - only they're thinking of suing the state of New Jersey.

- the Argos, Ricky Williams and Joe Theismann

- the damn French part II...Lance Armstrong clear for a transgression he didn't commit in 1999.

all this and more.

Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - if reports are true about you going for major bucks at ESPN...I say GO GET 'EM! They know you are worth it - NESN knows you are worth it - betcha Rogers knows too...they still haven't replaced you.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - for Tom Timmerman's confusion about the World Cup

Istanbul - They Might Be Giants

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

All In The Stars

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Just enough time to wish everyone a great day.

HAZEL'S WEDNESDAY HOROSCOPE
You'll have plenty going on today but, be careful. There will be just as many people on your side as not. Choose your words carefully and be willing to compromise. Put some time aside for rest and relaxation. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world...don't forget to take time to breathe

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Porcelain - Moby

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Weekend Recap - Better Late Than Never

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

The Hazies come a day late this week - real life (work) interrupted the Monday Hazies. For those of you who haven't been here before - the Monday Hazies take a look back at some of the more notable performances from the past week. The winners are awarded a Hazie and have the title of "Hazel's Hero" bestowed upon them. While Hazel hasn't officially OK'd the nominees - we'd like to think she give her trademark smile and the thumbs up.

HAZEL'S HEROES

MLB
Jason Bay of the Pirates won his second consecutive National League Player of the Week. Bay made news last week for hitting a home run in six consecutive games - his streak ended last night. He wound up the week hitting .500, with 7 HRs and 15 RBI.

I think Hazel would have to give the thumbs up to a Canadian kid hitting it big south of the border - she'd hand out the hardware.

Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander and Carl Crawford of the Devils Rays shared the American League Player of the Week award. Verlander was 2-0, with an ERA of 0.56 in 16 innings - including the first complete game shutout thrown by a Tigers' rookie in four years. He finished the month of May going 4-1, with an ERA of 1.73 (surprise, surprise "Hubie" has Verlander in the Hazelspeeps yahoo pool). For his part, Crawford hit .484 for the week with 3 HRs and added 8 stolen bases.

It is said that "chicks dig the long ball" - given "Hurricane Hazel's" reputation as a big time pitcher during her days at Rogers Sportsnet (according to Mike Toth), I think she'd dig Verlander's week. I'm not sure Hazel would be feelin' Crawford's week, since he stole four bases in a game against the Blue Jays and had a two HR game against the Sox.

Check out the month that Ryan Howard is having - going into tonight's game, Howard had hit 13 HRs in May and has over 30 RBI. That rates mention in the same breath as the other winners.

Like they say "chicks dig the long ball" - I think Hazel would dig Ryan's power numbers this month - can you hear her say "Buh Bye"?

As I wrap up the MLB round up - I would be remiss (and probably beaten down by Hazel herself) if I didn't mention that Vernon Wells of Hazel's hometown Blue Jays hit 3 HRs tonight against the Red Sox. Troy Glaus (a member of Hazel Mae's Hackers) has chipped in with 2 HRs of his own.

Hazel has the right to step in and nominate these two - even if they did it against the Sox.


NHL
The Edmonton Oilers have shocked the hockey world by making it to the Stanley Cup Finals - awaiting the winner of the Buffalo/Carolina series. The Oilers have Canadians in a frenzy with this run to the Cup - even people who don't consider themselves hockey fans have stood up (or sat down in a pub) and taken note of what Edmonton has accomplished. I have talked a lot about the players who have lead the Oilers this spring - but this week's Hazie has to go to Kevin Lowe who many thought to be crazy when he signed Pronger and Peca, and even crazier when he traded for Roloson. Lowe took a gamble and it has paid off big time in Edmonton.

If pressed (no smart comments peeps) I have to think that Hazel would say she's pulling for a Canadian-based team to win the Cup. Ya, I know - her support for the Oilers has NOTHING to do with my hockey pools.

Note: The Buffalo Sabres just beat the Carolina Hurricanes in O/T to force Game 7 in Carolina on Thursday. THIS is very good for my other pool - Hazel Karma at work? I guess we'll see now...won't we?

A short list this week for a number of reasons - not the least of which was that it was a "fuzzy" kind of weekend (read: Red Bull and Vodka). The details were shared with my old Hazelspeeps buddy DJames who, no doubt, must have laughed hysterically at some of the events from the last few days. But that is a story for yahoo. The World Cup is coming - and you know Hazel is going to be busy handing out the hardware to the likes of Luis Figo, Cristiano Ronaldo, Deco and the rest of the " Selecção", aka the Portuguese National Team.

Plenty to talk about tomorrow in Weird & Whacked Wednesday entry, including:

• Ricky Williams signing with Hazel's hometown Toronto Argos - and Joe Theismann's rant against the signing;
  
  
• The ongoing saga of the Boston Bruins search for a GM;
  
  
• The confederacy of dunces (Roy Mlakar, John Muckler and a reluctant Bryan Murray) , putting the "Tard" in SenaTards by telling fans that they are considering bringing back Dominik Hasek next year - the man who is said to have angel hair pasta holding his groin together.
  
  
• The French National Team criticizing fans in Paris for booing them - who'da thunk it? The French, and in particular - Parisiens, being rude...go figure.
  
  
• Marathoners in Ottawa take a short cut through no fault of their own and end up losing their place - a volunteer had left his station to direct the runners. Does this ever happen in Boston?
  

All this and likely more, because we now know that people now save up all their brilliant ideas and actions for Wednesday - in hopes of being mentioned here.

I'll leave you with the standings in the Hazelspeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool on yahoo for the week ending May 28th.

71.5 - The Bronx Zoo (owned by "Sparky")
70.5 - Tom Sawyer (owned by our resident Steinbrenner "Hubie)
63.0 - Shuggysux (owned by "Shuggy")
62.5 - Tina's Team (owned by our rookie GM Tina)
54.0 - Banana Peels (owned by "Golden Banana")
49.5 - Fighting Bobcats (owned by our commish "Drisc")
49.5 - Hazel Mae's Hackers (owned by El Prez...known here as "Pogue)
49.0 - Naughty Girls (owned by fellow part-time blogger "Renee")
43.5 - GB Steam Boys (owned by Gbak..."George")
37.0 - Leprachauns (owned by "Irish")

Shuggy broke into the top 3 this past week - but Tina is tough, she'll bounce back. A dog fight in the middle of the pack with Drisc and I tied for 6th. Renee's brief, but hopefully enjoyable stay on top of me is now over - she is right under (as opposed to behind) me (and Drisc I guess). George has an excuse for being near the bottom - he works too damn much and get on during the day to beat Hubie to the waiver wire. Plus, when he spends his time supporting the Paw Sox - so you have to give him a break.

In case anyone was wondering - the waiver controversy didn't explode. Looks like yahoo got their act together...all is well in the land of Hazelspeeps.

That's about it for tonight - another big day at work tomorrow. Have a great one peeps - hope your Memorial Day was a great one.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - June is coming, which means the rise of the Hackers up the standings.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - I was witness to an event that has likely NEVER before and I dare say will NEVER happen again. Two lovely Asian ladies, in a retro club, dancing wildly to a song that they had never heard before - or will again...unless I burn it for them. The significance of this event? That's between my buddy DJames and I...and my gang that was there to see it. It is a memory that will last a lifetime.

Watusi Rodeo - Guadalcanal Diary

Come along with me to the Congo land
Got a zebra by the tail and a python in my hand
Once my home was a Texas plain
But now I'm swinging lasso on an alien terrain
Hottentons and pygmies know where to go
Everybody's headed to the Watusi Rodeo

Cowboys are putting up a fence around
A sacred elephant burial ground
Native women stomping up a flurry in the mud
Villagers are looking for some cowboy blood (Blood!!)

I guess they didn't like those hats we made 'em wear
They don't look right on the native hair
Don't they know that it's all for show
All for showing at the Watusi Rodeo

Monkeys in the trees just thumbing their nose
At the bull riders, ridin' on rhinos
Warriors standing with spears in their hands
Wondering what's next from a crazy white man

Natives are restless under these Stetsons
What are these cowboys doing in the congo
Look like cows but they're water buffalos
Ropin' and ridin in the Watusi Rodeo
Oh they look like cows but they're water buffalos
Everybody's heading for the Watusi Rodeo

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Weird & Whacked Weekend Wrap-up

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

No time to update yesterday - spent last night working for a big meeting today.

Game 6 tonight in Buffalo - I think Lindy Ruff gets the most out of his team tonight and Buffalo sends this one to a Game 7 in Carolina. Buffalo wins 4-3 tonight.

Great game in Toronto last night - the Sox fell behind early, thanks to a brilliant decision by Matt Clement and/or Jason Varitek to throw Vernon Wells two straight sliders (and not very good ones, the first one fooled Wells who must have been looking fastball). Sox come back to tie the game at six - only to see the bullpen let them down. Beckett goes tonight so the series should be evened up after tonight's game.

I'lll be back later with the weekend recap, plus some "interesting" things that have been happening over the last few days.

Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S TUESDAY HOROSCOPE
Refuse to let anyone get the better of you. You'll be emotional and this can lead to a misunderstanding. Take any projects you are working on seriously, however, this isn't the best time to share your intentions with others. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - just because

All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down - The Mavericks

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Random Thoughts

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I'm a little rushed this a.m. so just a few thoughts for this Monday morning:

Carolina wins in overtime and is one game away from meetings Edmonton in the Finals - nothing says "New NHL" like hockey in Carolina...in the month of June. I wonder if NASCAR will feel the sting of the Hurricanes success...na, I didn't think so.

The Asterisk was quite humble yesterday when discussing his 715th HR. Well, its Barry so you know there had to be something. He went to great lengths to discuss his respect for Aaron and Ruth...but had to qualify it a few times by saying that Aaron was the HR king, not Ruth. If you know Barry, you know it was a slap.

Canadian Jason Bay has hit a HR in six straight games - you know he is going to get mention later on.

World Cup is 11 days away...time to start breaking down the groups - guess who I'm picking in Group D?

Gotta book all...have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S MEMORIAL DAY HOROSCOPE
Pick a place, a topic or even a friend you feel you can learn from and make plans to follow through. A course or trip will take on a new meaning and you will get some of the answers for which you've been searching. Change will be the best thing for you. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope you are having a groovy long weekend down there.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Hard To Explain - The Strokes

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

One Down...One To Go

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Well, the thought was an interesting one while it lasted. The Edmonton Oilers went into Anaheim and closed out the series with a 2-1 win; winning all three games in Anaheim, something I thought they had no chance of doing. The Oilers, now "Canada's team", await the winner of the Sabres/Hurricanes series (who in the middle of a great game 5... 3-3 in the third). I'm sticking with Buffalo...even with all of the injuries - I still think they are the team of destiny. One down...one to go

So the Oilers win pretty much guarantees me a win in one of my pools - I need a Buffalo win to have a chance in the other one. One down...one to go.

The Asterisk hit HR number 715 today, passing Babe Ruth for second on the all-time HR list; 40 short of Hank Aaron. One down...he won't make it.

I'm going back to the hockey game. Have a great one peeps.

I know its late...but there's still a couple of hours left in Hazel's day - so if she's checking in

HAZEL'S SUNDAY HOROSCOPE
Get involved in home improvement projects. A family member will offer you some great advice. Do something that will make a difference to the people who love you most. A favor will be granted if you ask. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the day/night on Hazelspeeps - for last night...a story for the yahoo group.

It's Saturday Night - The Razorbacks

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Have Things Turned?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

The Carolina Hurricanes evened up their series with the Sabres win a 4-0 win last night. Buffalo was missing a couple of defencemen last night and it showed - the managed to survive the loss of Tim Connolly, but this might be too much to ask for. After last night's game - advantage Carolina...big time. More later

The Ducks host the Oilers tonight, down 3-1, needing a win to stay alive. I know this sounds crazy, but if Anaheim wins tonight, they are going to come all the way back on Edmonton - just watch. The Oilers, still suffering the after effects of the flu bug that hit the team, can't afford to lose this game - if they do, Anaheim is going to ride the momentum of two straight wins right through to a playoff series win...all the way back from being down 3-0.

Lots to do today...try to be back later with more. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S SATURDAY HOROSCOPE
A turning point is apparent. You can make your move or at least plan what you want to do next. Someone will find what you have to say interesting enough to want to get involved in your project. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world, and that you are enjoying your weekend.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Clock - Coldplay

Peesth Out...Buh Bye.

You Gotta Be A Football Hero

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I'll pick up where I left off on Tuesday night (I'm still not talking about that damn poker tournament last night). More of the "notables" from the world of sports - you can't make some of this stuff up.

NFL

"IT WUDN'T ME"
Denver Broncos QB Jake "The Snake" Plummer is in some trouble - seems like Jake was involved in a traffic confrontation in Colorado last month. A motorist claims that Plummer cut him off in traffic and then kicked his truck at a stop light.

Plummer started out by admitting he cut the other driver off, his excuse being that he was in a hurry to drop off a cheque to his charitable foundation, but Jake claimed he apologized for the incident. Jake went on to say that the guy bumped his car from behind when he was at a stop light.

Surprise, surprise - the other person saw things a little differently. He admits beeping his horn at Jake, because he was driving recklessly, and that Jake responded by getting out of his car at a stop light and kicking his truck.

When told that there were witnesses who backed the other driver up - Jake passed it all off, by saying he was there to play football. He went off on some crazy tangent about how he doesn't have a problem with anger management, that he just wants to focus on playing football.

I'm going to file this one under "whacked" - road rage? roid rage? Looking at Jake...I'll go with the former. Kind of funny that a guy who is nicknamed "The Snake" is asking people to believe his side of the story...even AFTER witnesses told police that the other driver's version was what took place.

MAYBE ITS THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN WATER
Cleveland Browns RB Rueben Droughans turned himself in to police in Colorado after being charged with third degree assault and harrassment stemming from an incident of domestic violence in a Denver suburb. Droughans could face 6 to 18 months in jail if convicted of assault.

This is Droughans second run-in with police; earlier this month an Ohio jury decided that Droughans was not driving while impaired - even though he failed a breathalyzer test. Read the story for Rueben's excuse.

File this one under just plain dumb - with all of the attention focused on athletes, with all of the stories around domestic violence (the latest being Dmitri Young) these guys still lose it and put their hands on their partners.

Jake with road rage - what's Rueben's excuse? roi- ...never mind, you can figure it out.


NCAA - WHERE FUTURE STARS LEARN ABOUT RAGE

ROMEO AND JULIET?
Indiana University's "top" WR, James Hardy, has been charged with domestic battery for an attack on his girlfriend and infant son. Police claim they found his girlfriend with a torn shirt and reddish marks on the back of her neck.

Hardy's defence team is vowing to fight the charges, claiming that he is totally innocent; though the 6 foot 7, 215 lb WR changed his original story that there had been no phyiscal confrontation to say that he pushed her after "she got in his face".

We'll slot this one right alongside Rueben's story - just plain dumb. The Romeo and Juliet reference? Hardy, who is 20, has been dating this woman since the age of 13 - 7 years. Isn't this another beautiful love story?


NONE OF IT WAS MINE
Alabama LB Juwan Simpson had a felony charge of possessing a stolen handgun reduced to a misdemeanor. Simpson could have faced 10 years in prison for the original charge; but with it being reduced to third-degree "receiving stolen property, he is now looking at up to a year in jail. Police found the gun, along with some marijuana when he was pulled over for driving erratically...I wonder if Jake's cheque run was actually...naaaaa it couldn't be.

File this one under whacked - I don't think I need to explain.

I've got to book. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
Educational pursuits will pay off. Attend a lecture or surf the net in search of information to help you move forward with an idea. Extra money can be yours if you create a service or product. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - have a great weekend.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Blurry - Puddle of Mudd

Peesth Out!

Duck Hunting

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

The Buffalo Sabres took a 2-1 series lead last night with a 4-3 victory over the Hurricanes - Daniel Briere lead the Sabres with two goals last night. The Hurricanes pulled rookie Cam Ward last night - it will be interesting to see how he reacts in game 4...looks like it is going to be a Buffalo/Edmonton Final.

The Oilers look to advance to the Stanley Cup finals with a win over the Anaheim Ducks tonight. The Ducks said all the right things on Tuesday night - the "one game, one shift at a time", "backs up against the wall", "we just have to stick together and give it all we've got" cliches - but the series is over...likely tonight. The Ducks were understandably dejected when their comeback felt short on Tuesday night - the Oilers go duck hunting and put Anaheim out of their misery tonight.

Speaking of ducks...lame ducks

Matt Clement of the Sox was pounded last night by the Yankees, the line on Clement was downright ugly;

Josh Towers of the Blue Jays was roughed up by the Devils Rays last night - the result of his latest effort was a loss and a trip to Syracuse.

Don't ask about poker last night - I finished 5th in the tournament (and out of the money).

More later...some "interesting" things happening in the world of sports. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S THURSDAY HOROSCOPE
Personal problems will cause setbacks to your professional goals if you don't take care of them swiftly. Ask yourself why you are facing these worries and you will find your solution. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

In A Big Country - Big Country

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

One Win Away The Cup

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Well, the Edmonton Oilers survived a scare last night, and took a 3-0 series lead over the Anaheim Ducks. The Oilers almost blew a 4-0 lead in the third period, but hung for a 5-4 win. Once again, Michael Peca and Chris Pronger figured prominantly in the win - where have you heard those names before on this page? Maybe now people in Ottawa will stop referring to the SenaTards as "Canada's Team".

Round 2 of the Yankees/Sox series goes to the New York by a score of 7-5. Last night I wrote about ARod and his meaningless hits - well, his three run shot was the difference...though I have to say he hit it with the Yankees up 4-1 in the 7th, with things seemingly under control.

Albert Pujols hits HR number 23 - can you hear Hazel Mae's Hackers charging up the standings of the Hazelspeeps baseball pool?

Poker night tonight - round of 16...and as always, I'm looking for a little bit of Hazel Karma tonight. Hazel if you are reading this - your good thoughts and pocket Aces would be very much appreciated!

Ok, I've got to run...Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S WEDNESDAY HOROSCOPE
If you try to use someone else's methods or ideas, they won't work for you. Don't waste your time thinking that someone else can get a better end result. Believe in yourself. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Californication - Red Hot Chili Peppers

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Wednesday Comes Early

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Tomorrow night is the final 16 of a poker tournament I'm playing in - so Weird & Whacked Wednesday will be split into two this week, with part 1 starting tonight. For those of you who haven't been here before, Wednesday entries take a look back over the last week or so at the "notable newsmakers" from the world of sports. The stories generally fall under the category of weird or whacked, with the select few eclipsing the aforementioned to set the bar as downright silly or just plain dumb. As always, I'll let you decide where you think they fit.

NCAA

THE BOYS OF ANIMAL HOUSE WOULD HAVE BEEN PROUD
Those wild, fun-loving girls from Northwestern University's soccer team issued their first public statement since the hazing incident last week. The girls, with heavy hearts no doubt, said they were sorry "for the negative attention, press and controversy" their actions brought to their school. A classic line from the girls:

"We never forsaw that what began as a well-intentioned night of team unity and celebration would have such severe consequences..."

After reading this...all I could think of was that classic scene in Animal House where John Belushi, Tim Matheson and the other misfits are standing in Dean Wermer's office. Think that after the press release they headed to the cafeteria to discuss the day's events? FOOD FIIIIIIGHT!!!!!!!


NFL

THE NFL IS NO BUSH LEAGUE
Heismann Trophy winner Reggie Bush, who has spent the off-season in the news for all the wrong reasons, couldn't leave well enough alone. One would think that Reggie, who last week told his agent to get a deal done with the Saints ("no holdout"), would want to come into camp and keep a low profile - nope, not Reggie. Bush asked the NFL to make an exception to their policy that states running backs can only wear numbers between 20 and 49, and allow him to wear the number 5 he wore at USC. The NFL's competition committed turned Bush's request down saying that "Nobody is comfortable that an exception be made to the policy and no one is confident that there will ever be a change." Sort of a long winded, traditional NFL antiseptic, way to just say "No - follow the damn rules Reggie."

I'm going to file this one under downright silly - Reggie for asking the uber conservative NFL to make an exception for him...and the damn NFL for being so damn rigid and silly about what number a player has to wear.


NBA

THEY CAN'T EVEN WIN WHEN THEY WIN LOTTERY
I know I don't do the NBA - but I had to make an exception tonight. The Toronto Raptors capped off yet another disppointing season by winning the NBA Draft lottery tonight. As if things weren't bad enough in Toronto, the Raptors win the draft lottery in a disappointing draft year. While new GM Bryan Colangelo tries to put a positive spin on things by saying "For us to have this kind of luck is a symbol of a reversal of fortune going forward. " I look at it from the other perspective, where Portland Trailblazer's President Steve Patterson said "You may find a player with as big an impact at No. 4 or even No. 6 as you may get at No. 1." In other words, there is no clear number one pick - or, this is a weak draft year. Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady have to be laughing.

I'm going to reserve judgement on this one until after the draft - if the Raptors don't trade this pick...then file it under just plain dumb. None of the projected number one picks is going to help this team.

That about wraps things up for tonight...more to come over the next couple days or so. But I leave you with one more thought - for all of you soccer haters. Check out the new feature from Sky Sports - this should change your views on the World Cup. Remember to vote for Portugal! Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - for Reggie Bush and the Toronto Raptors

Number One - Nelly (not one of my favourites...but it works tonight).

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Less Than No Time Today

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

No time today, big day at work - back later. Have a great one peeps

HAZEL'S TUESDAY HOROSCOPE
You will have a strong competitive drive today, so get your to-do list out and start making headway. The little things you have found difficult before will be easy today. You will feel so much better once you put these things behind you. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Steal My Sunshine - Len

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Victoria Day Notables

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Another edition of the Hazies - for those of you who haven't been here before, Monday entries take a look back at some of the more notable performances from the past week or so. The outstanding performers are awarded a "Hazie" and have the title of "Hazel's Hero" bestowed upon them. While Hazel hasn't officially OK'd the selections, I would like to think that she would smile and give a thumbs up to this week's winners.

On the flip side, there are those who have performed less than admirably - some of have tough weeks, some have just performed poorly, and there are those who make news for the wrong reasons. No awards, no meeting Hazel, nothing - just the title of "less than one" (which if you go back to basic math equals...rhymes with "hero"...)

HAZEL'S HEROES

NHL
What can you say about the Edmonton Oilers? The surprise team of the 2006 NHL Playoffs. While a few people, me included, expected the Oilers to beat the Red Wings - I think few expected them to get by the San Jose Sharks. The Oilers, carrying the hopes of hockey fans across Hazel's homeland, continue to shock and surprise, winning the first two games in Anaheim against the favoured Ducks. The Oilers look poised to make the Stanley Cup Finals and make GM Kevin Lowe look as smart as Ducks GM Brian Burke. Three of Lowe's more controversial acquisitions have stepped up their game and been a major factor in Edmonton's run; I am speaking of the much-maligned Michael Peca, the once-thought over-priced Chris Pronger, and Minnesota Wild castaway Dwayne Roloson. The Oilers were expected to rely on the likes of Ryan Smyth, Shawn Horcoff, Alex Hemsky and Sergei Samsonov - but I don't think anyone expected the kind of performances put in by Peca, Pronger and Roloson.

Peca has scored a few key shorthanded goals over the last couple of rounds and has been the shutdown center and leader Lowe had hoped he would be when he picked him up before the season.

Pronger, in addition to being the shutdown stud defenceman, has added 14 points and is the team's second leading scorer.

Roloson has come up big time after time for the Oilers, proving many of the nay-sayers (me included) that his days in Minnesota were not just a result of bigger equipment and clutch and grab defensive hockey.

Fernando Pisani should also get mention - he continues to score game breaking goals for the Oilers, especially the go-ahead goal in game 2 against the Ducks.

The Edmonton Oilers, especially the aforementioned four, are deserving of a "Hazie" - I have to think Hazel has to be secretly pulling for the Oilers.

I went on record picking the Ducks to win the series, and I will stick with it. The Ducks aren't pushovers - they have proven that they can win on the road, they did it in Colorado, they did it in Calgary...they aren't out of it yet. All this to say, I won't be too disappointed if the Oilers do go on to win the series...remember the hockey pools.

For those of you wondering, I won't put the Sharks in the category of "less than one"; yes they were expected to beat the Oilers, yes they blew a 2-0 series lead - but they never quit. The Sharks played hard, they were beaten by a red-hot goalie and a team that looks destined to reach the Finals. Please, no Jack Edwards references...I still think he was wrong about the Thornton trade.


MLB
Major League Baseball announced the National and American League Players of the Week. In what has becoming a regular occurance, the National League announced co-winners this week.

Canadian-born Jason Bay of the Pirates was one of the winners this week. Bay ended the week hitting .333, with 3 HRs and 11 RBI - and also had an OBP of .407 and a slugging percentage of .750. What makes this all the more impressive is that Bay was recently dropped from the clean up spot to sixth in the batting order - I think he handled it pretty well.

Pedro Feliz of the Giants, and teammate to "the asterisk", lead San Francisco to a sweep of the Houston Astros last week. Feliz hit a HR in each game, including one game where he had 5 RBI, and hit .500 for the series.

Scott Kazmir of the Devils Rays went 2-0, with an ERA of 0.60 and struck out 19 last week. Kazmir, who is 22, became the youngest player in 25 years to reach 7 victories this early into the season - no small feat when you are playing for Tampa.


"LESS THAN ONE"
David Wells of the Red Sox is making headlines again - as has been the case in the recent past, Wells is in the news for his mouth, rather than any on the field accomplishments. Seems that Boomer had been chatting with Gordon Edes of the Boston Globe and began talking about players who have had breakout years recently and speculated about who might be "juiced" - mentioning the name of David Dellucci.

Wells tried to recant his statements after the story was run, typical for him - he talks too much and doesn't think about checking his big mouth. Given the fact that Francona sought out Dellucci to apologize for Wells' remarks, and the fact that Gordon Edes is a pretty solid member of the Boston media...I have to think that David is full of it.


What would an entry here be without some story about someone messing up one of my sports lottery tickets. If you have read this page in the past, you undoubtedly know what I think of Alex Rodriguez - Mr. Meaningless Hit.

Rodriguez is at his very best when the game is no longer in doubt - he can be counted on to hit a 3 run HR when his team is up or down by 5+ runs. Well, ARod did it again - trailing 9-1, Alex the consumate professional tried to pull the Yankees back with a 2 run jack in the 9th tonight. That HR put him ahead of Big Papi in total bases and blew up my ticket tonight...thanks ARod.

HAZELSPEEPS FANTASY BASEBALL POOL
Last week I updated readers on the standing in our baseball pool on the yahoo site. The updated standing for the week ending May 21st are as follows:

69.5 - Tina's Team (owned by our rookie GM Tina)
67.5 - The Bronx Zoo (owned by "Sparky")
66.5 - Tom Sawyer (owned by our resident Steinbrenner "Hubie)
66.0 - Shuggysux (owned by "Shuggy")
57.0 - Banana Peels (owned by "Golden Banana")
49.5 - Naughty Girls (owned by fellow part time blogger "Renee")
47.5 - Hazel Mae's Hackers (owned by El Prez...known here as "Pogue)
43.5 - GB Steam Boys (owned by Gbak..."George")
43.0 - Fighting Bobcats (owned by our commish "Drisc")
40.0 - Leprachauns (owned by "Irish")

The top 3 stay the same - though they switched positions this week. My brief, but very enjoyable, stay on top of Renee is over for the time being...but as the peeps know, being under Renee isn't so bad either.

The league wasn't without controversy last week - with some owners questioning who Hubie manages to stay at the top of the waiver priority list when he is on a world record pace for moves in one season (just ask Renee). We think its a problem with the yahoo site - but Hubie came out swinging when he thought some of the boys were after him. Stay tuned...it promises to get better!

That's about it for tonight...more tomorrow. Have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world. No worries Hazel...your boys will start charging to the top in June - they'll do you proud!

Song of the night on Hazelspeeps - because it is on right now, and it is still a great song

Drift and Die - Puddle of Mudd

Peesth Out...Buy Bye!

Happy Victoria Day

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special unofficial start to the summer "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

A national holiday up here today as we celebrate Queen Victoria's birthday - Canadians look to this weekend as the beginning of summer. Speaking of celebrating, Edmonton Oiler fans are euphoric after the Oilers won game 2 last night in Anaheim. The Ducks had not lost two games in a row in the 2006 playoffs - they picked the worst possible time to start this little streak.

The Sabres and Hurricanes face off in game 2 of their series today - while my predictions in the Conference Finals have been terrible, I'm going to pick the Canes' to tie things up tonight.

Back later with the Monday recap...have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S VICTORIA DAY HOROSCOPE
Don't get frustrated and angry when you can put your energy to much better use. You will learn something new that will enable you to get things done faster or lead you in a different direction. Don't hesitate to do for others. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song on the Morning on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Everything is Automatic - Matthew Good

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Did Anyone Notice?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checkin in. A special Sunday morning "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Well, he did it - Barry Bonds tied Babe Ruth for second place on the all-time HR list.

* - this is an asterisk...get used to seeing it next to Barry's name.

I think the only person, outside of Barry's family and "friend", who may be smiling it Rafael Palmeiro...Barry's HR pursuit had made Palmeiro a distant memory. I've already spent too much time talking about Barry...just watch Bonds on Bonds - ugh.

The Buffalo Sabres won Game 1 in Carolina yesterday in Carolina. The Sabres, who didn't play very well, pulled out a 3-1 victory over the Hurricanes yesterday. While I didn't think they'd win yesterday's game - I did call them for a series win. Not only can Buffalo skate with Carolina, they outskated some of the Canes' vets like Recchi, Weight and Wesley - the speed advantage goes to Bufffalo and so does the advantage in goal. Ryan Miller is playing as well as anyone right now - Buffalo looks like a team of destiny.

Game 2 of the Oilers/Ducks series goes today - look for Anaheim to rebound with a win. The Oilers won Game 1 on adrenalin, the emotion of beating San Jose and being one round away from a Stanley Cup Final. The Ducks know today's game is critical, and the series is likely over if they lose - I'm calling a 4-2 Ducks win today. For the record, I'm calling the Ducks to win the Series in seven games...sorry Canada, its just the way I see it.

Gotta book now...more later. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S SUNDAY HOROSCOPE
Don't hold back, especially with a personal project that can affect your future cash flow. You can do something special for someone you have known for some time. Looking back and reflecting on your past will help you move forward with confidence. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world. Enjoy your Sunday

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Shocker In Lotus Land

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

A shaky start to the Conference Finals last night with Edmonton walking in and beating a rested Anaheim Ducks team by a score of 2-1. While many are calling the Oilers a team of destiny (and while I would love to believe it) I am not quite there yet. The Ducks are good, very good - they are not a fluke. I'm leaning towards the Ducks rebounding and winning the series...seems like they play their best games at home.

The Buffalo/Carolina series starts today - I'm calling for a Carolina win in today's game, but Buffalo to eventually win the series...more on that later. I've got to get going now.

Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S SATURDAY HOROSCOPE
Your input will be greatly appreciated by someone who respects your opinion. Don't hold back -- say what's on your mind. A personal involvement with someone you meet today will end up being extremely special. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Angels Losing Sleep - Our Lady Peace

Peesth Out!

The Conference Finals

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special Victoria Day long weekend "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Just a quick post this morning - the Western Conference Finals get underway tonight with the Anaheim Ducks hosting the Edmonton Oliers. The Carolina Hurricanes host the Buffalo Sabres tomorrow. I am sticking with the Sabres to come out of the Eastern Conference - and am still undecided on the West (more later) - but I am picking the Ducks to win tonight's game.

Back later tonight. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
It won't take much for you to stay ahead of the competition but you may offend someone close to you if you are too busy to be sympathetic to his or her needs. Jumping into something without including loved ones will cause stress and tension. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Get A Job - The Offspring

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

In Pursuit Of Higher Education?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

For those of you who checked in yesterday looking for the Weird & Whacked Wednesday entry - I was playing in a poker tournament last night; so enjoy it one day later...I think you'll agree it was worth the extra day. For those of you who haven't been here before, Wednesday entries take a look back at the "notable newsmakers" from the world of sports over the last week or so. The stories generally fall under the category of weird or whacked, with the select few making the downright silly or just plain dumb categories. I'll let you decide where you think they fit.

This week's entry theme is all about academic excellence - those striving to achieve it, and those who didn't but probably should have. Enjoy!

NCAA

GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN
Catholic University in Washington has launched an investigation of its woman's lacrosse team after being informed that the young ladies had posted photo of their freshman initiation party on the internet. Allegedly, the photos feature a male stripper providing the entertainment for the night. Athletic director Michael Allen was quoted as saying "appropriate disciplinary action will be taken" if any of the lacrosse players are in the photos - hands up those of you who went to Catholic school and remember "appropriate disciplinary action" being the strap? I wonder who is conducting the investigation with Mr. Allen...is he taking this matter into his own hands?

I'm going to file this one under "just plain dumb" - you are attending a Catholic school and you are posting pictures of a male stripper entertaining you on the internet? Man (ladies), the cash your parents are spending on higher education is really paying off huh? I wonder how many dudes are sitting there telling their buddies - see? its true what they say about Catholic girls.


THESE GIRLS REALLY WANNA HAVE FUN
By now you have no doubt heard about the hazing incident with the women's soccer team at Northwestern University. Men's college and professional sports teams have nothing on these girls when it comes to hazing - this special event includes pictures of bondage, lap dances (for the men's soccer team) and simulated sex acts. Some of the ladies have been quick to respond - saying that no one girl was forced to do anything they didn't want to, and that it was all in good fun. I'm waiting to hear the first one to say "I was drunk, I didn't know what I was doing."

I'm going to file this one under "whacked" - again, with all the negative attention focused on hazing in recent years, these ladies post the pictures on the internet. On a side note, I don't remember the girls soccer team at my university looking like some of these ladies.


MLB

FOR WHOM THE BELLE TOLLS
Former Cleveland Indians slugger (and headcase) Albert Belle was arrested AGAIN for felony stalking of his ex-girlfriend. Belle, who was out on bail awaiting trial for another stalking charge in February, ignored a restraining order against him and violated his parole - because he was arrested for committing a felony while out on bond, he won't be eligible for bail if charged. This story isn't funny...but it is sad.

I'm going to file this one under "whacked" - After being arrested and charged on one count of stalking, he repeats the same actions. I think Albert would have benefitted from a couple of years of college - he would have learned that those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it. Albert Belle - MLB's Ricky Williams...just plain whacked.


WAY TO GO TIGER!!!
Detroit Tigers DH Dmitri Young has been charged with domestic violence after his ex-girlfriend accused him of choking her. Young has denied the allegations, saying he doesn't see her anymore. For those of you who don't know, Dmitri is the older brother to Devil Rays' top propect Delroy Young who was suspended for 50 games earlier this year for throwing his bat at an umpire in a minor league game. These two are something special huh? I'm sure Mr. & Mrs. Young are proud of their sons - two upstanding professional athletes.

I'm going to file this one under "whacked" - for obvious reasons. In the face of the charge, he blows it off by saying "I don't see this person anymore." - not exactly professing his innocence huh? Hey Dmitri, I think you just used Albert Belle's excuse "I don't see this person anymore." Unlike Albert...Dmitri didn't have to go to college to learn what he should have as a child - it isn't right for boys to hit girls.


ANOTHER CURSE OF THE BAMBINO?
Barry Bonds told viewers of his "Bonds on Bonds" series that he feels haunted by Babe Ruth as he tries to hit HR #714. Bonds likened his pursuit of Ruth to Roger Maris' quest during his record setting HR season. Bonds thinks the Babe is hovering over him. If you have two minutes to read the article - do it. I haven't seen or heard of Barry being this downtrodden and resigned since his infamous "I'm tired fellas" speech to the media last year when he announced he might miss the whole season.

I'm going to file this one under "weird" - to see Barry this humble...this resigned to his own limitations is just plain weird. What have they done with Barry Bonds? Who is this imposter?

99 BOTTLES OF BEER ON THE WALL
Former NL Rookie of the Year Rick Sutcliffe did his best impersonation of Joe Namath during a San Diego Padres television broadcast last week. Sutcliffe stopped by the booth to visit with the team doing the broadcast and went off on an incoherent rant about his daughter, George Clooney and Africa - before gushing all over the announcing team. No word on whether Rick told either of them that he wanted to kiss them.

I'm going to file this one under "just plain dumb" - but then again, aren't we all when we have a few pops?


EUROPEAN SOCCER

WELL, WHEN YOU PUT IT THAT WAY...
As you already know, Barcelona beat Arsenal 2-1 in the Champions League Final on Wednesday night in Paris. Surprise, surprise - a major soccer game with some controversy. Norwegian referee Terje Hauge sent Lehmann off for a foul on Barcelona forward Samuel Eto'o. When interviewed by the British press (who no doubt badgered him about the call - even though it resulted in a goal being taken away from Barcelona on the play) Hauge say he may have made a mistake. Leave it to the British to use this as an excuse and gloss over the fact that Barcelona would have gone up had Lehmann not been red-carded, and likely used their 1-0 advantage to pummel Arsenal. Man I hope England's run in the World Cup is short and painful.

I'm going to file this one under "downright silly" - for the press to be talking about this as a turning point, when Barcelona dominated the entire game, is just silly. Arsenal is not in Barcelona's class - had the Barcelona goal counted...the floodgates would have been opened up much earlier.


TRACK AND FIELD

ITS MINE ALL MINE!
U.S. Sprinter Justin Gatlin thought he had set a world record in the 100 metre dash; originally recorded as 9.76 seconds - officials changed the time to 9.77 (equalling Asafa Powell's world record - claiming his time was 9.766 seconds). Gatlin is upset and wants the IAAF to reconsider. If Justin is a track and field star - doesn't that mean that is he likely "in university" (nudge nudge) - should he know that you always round up?

I don't know where to file this - I just wanted to mention it...read on and you'll see why.

That about does it for me tonight - have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world...enjoy your weekend.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - especially for Justin Gatlin

Conductin' Thangs - Maestro Fresh Wes

"I'm a brother who is real not fake
and I heard Robert Palmer wants to do a remake
when it comes to rhymes be original don't duplicate
cuz I'm 5 foot 10 but big like BEN JOHNSON"

Note to U.S. readers...Ben Johnson will always be the world's fastest man...he got screwed (apologies to Donovan Bailey) - we've got Ben's back here.

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Call Me Rasheed

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

I guaranteed two games yesterday, Barcelona winning over Arsenal and San Jose winning over Edmonton.

Barcelona scored two goals in the last fifteen minutes of the game yesterday in Paris, overcoming an awful first half call where they had a goal taken away from them early in the game. The Catalans dominated Arsenal yesterday, in large part because Jens Lehmann was given a red card early in the first half, but also because they were the much better team.

Now for the "Rasheed" part - the San Jose Sharks. I expected more from them yesterday - I should have known the kiss of death was when Pierre MacGuire predicted a Sharks win. The Sharks can point to their anemic power play/Edmonton's fantastic penalty killing over the last four games as the primary reason they lost the series. San Jose just could not break through Roloson last night...So I finish up Round 2 with a 3-1 record - Conference Final picks later.

I played in a poker tournament last night - the cards weren't coming last night...so I had to grind it out. I made it to the final 16 - to be played next Wednesday...still lookin' for a little Hazel Karma to come through for me.

Back later with more...have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S THURSDAY HOROSCOPE
You will make a connection with someone who is unique by getting involved in an event or an organization you believe in. Take part in creative projects that deal with all ages. The more versatile a group, the more you will learn. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - a just because song...though the title could be applied to the Sharks.

Turn Out The Lights - Nelly Furtado

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

My Guarantee For Wednesday

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Ok, I am going to guarantee a couple of wins today; and unlike Rasheed Wallace my guarantees will BOTH come through today.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL
Ronaldinho, Deco and co. (F.C. Barcelona) square off tonight at the Stade de France in Paris against Thierry Henry and Arsenal. While this is being billed as a dream final, I don't see it that way. Arsenal had a disappointing year in the English Premiership this year; and while they have had some good luck in Champions League play, the clock strikes twelve this afternoon for Arsene Wenger's team (formerly known as the French National team North). Barcelona has too much firepower for Arsenal's young defence, they are on a mission to win the double - the Primera Liga and Champions League. The last big game before the World Cup - Ronaldinho and Deco make a statement today.

Barcelona WILL win, I'm going to say 3-1 (no guarantees on the final score - only the win).

GAME 6 - SAN JOSE & EDMONTON
Canadians are all moving over to the Olier's camp - but it won't help tonight. Joe Thornton has yet to dominate a game in this series, Vesa Toskala has yet to play a great game in this series, and Jonathan Cheechoo has been held in check - tonight that all changes. The Sharks will come out and match Edmonton in terms of speed - the difference will come with San Jose using their size to lean on Edmonton tonight. There are a couple of holes on that defence, and I believe San Jose will exploit the weaker links tonight. Look for San Jose's power play to be the difference, with Joe Thornton having a big game tonight.

San Jose WILL win tonight... 5-3 , with Thornton picking up a goal and two assists tonight.

For anyone who read last night's entry, what started out as a promising night on my pro-line tickets would up as a big fat goose egg.

• Texas blew not one, but TWO leads in the last three innings against the Yankees...today I join Red Sox Nation (and Hazel) in hating the damn Yankees.
  
  
• Vlad Guerrero had a HR in the first inning and didn't look back as he beat Vernon Wells in total bases.

Oh well...start today's ticket off with Barcelona and San Jose...maybe finish it off with Vernon pulling one out against Vlad tonight...maybe.

No Weird & Whacked Wednesday entry tonight - my second place finish at that poker tournament a couple of weeks ago got me a free pass into a two-week tournament that starts tonight. I didn't get any Hazel Karma last night...but I think I did at that tournament - maybe a little more tonight? I'll let you know later tonight or tomorrow.

Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S WEDNESDAY HOROSCOPE
If you are waiting for things to happen, nothing will get done. You have to go for it today and not worry about what anyone else is doing. Someone you care for will probably cause you grief. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world...if you see this today, I could use a good thought or two at the tournament tonight.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - diggin the new one by my girl Nelly Furtado

Promiscuous - Nelly Furtado

Peesth Out..Buh Bye!

Come On Vernon!

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Not much to write about tonight - I could fill some space with more excuses and nonsense from the land of the SenaTards...but really, wouldn't that be overkill? Actually, I'm thinking the latest can be reserved for Wednesday entry, because the garbage I heard today was just downright silly.

Wild night in MLB

• the Texas Rangers were up tonight by a score of 9-0 in the top of the 2nd, and 10-3 after the 3rd - only to blow the lead by giving up 2 in the 5th, 6 in the 6th. Texas responds with 2 in the 7th...but hang on, they look like they are ready to give it up again. Yep...this is going to cost me ANOTHER pro-line ticket.
  
  
• The San Francisco Giants who haven't been able to muster any sort of offence this year score 12 in Houston through 6 innings - no HRs for Bonds...Ruth can rest safely for the time being.
  
  
• The Devil Rays are putting it to the White Sox right now...but given that bullpen in Tampa, expect the White Sox to come back. It just seems like that kind of night.
  

I'm looking for some Hazel Karma tonight - I need two of Hazel's friends to come through for me to make it a great night on the pro-line. I started a long shot ticket today with F.C Sevilla beating Real Madrid (4-3 Beckham scores two in a losing cause - haha) and Osasuna to beat Valencia (2-1) - the last two picks are:

• Carlos Delgado to beat Albert Pujols in total bases (yes I picked against Pujols, he can't be superman every night)...they are tied 0-0 through the 7th; and
  
  
• Vernon Wells to beat Vlad Guerrero tonight in total bases - COME ON VERNON (a Vernon win gives me a small winning ticket aside from the big one).
  

So Hazel, if you have the opportunity to peek in during a commercial break on SportsDesk - sent out some good vibes to your old buddies Carlos and Vernon...I'd be very grateful!

Might check back in later...if I don't - Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - music lesson time I found an old CD today; one of my all-time favourites by a band called Havana 3 a.m. Lead by The Clash's former bassist Paul Simonon - its a fusion of rockabilly and punk, with a latin flavour weaved in. No CD collection is complete without this one...trust me.

Death In The Afternoon - Havana 3 a.m. (ah...memories of a vacation in Acapulco years ago).

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

You Guaranteed It?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Want to know why I don't do basketball? Rasheed Wallace of the Pistons guaranteed a win against Lebron James and the Cavs yesterday - Cleveland won and Wallace was pretty quiet. I think basketball, more than any other sport, is filled with the big bunch of trash talkers who never accomplish anything.

I have to say, I'm not feelin' the love for Big Papi or Josh Beckett today. I don't know who to be mad at this morning, Ortiz for only managing a double against Rodrigo Lopez or Josh Beckett for giving up a HR to Tejada in the first inning of yesterday's game - either way they cost me a bundle on my proline ticket yesterday.

Just a quick post this morning...I've got to book. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S TUESDAY HOROSCOPE
For as hard as you try today you will come up against people who will slow you down. Focus on what you can learn and make the most of the time you have to wait around for answers. A partnership can lead to financial gains. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world...but the sounds of it, things are - the rumoured move to ESPN has the peeps talking.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for Hazel

On The Radio - Nelly Furtado

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

No "I" In Team

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Another weekend recap and the Monday edition of the "Hazies", for those of you who haven't been here before, Monday entries take a look back at some of the more notable performances from the past weekend. The outstanding performers are awarded a "Hazie" and have the title of "Hazel's Hero" bestowed upon them. While Hazel hasn't officially OK'd the selections, we'd like to think she would smile and give a thumbs up to this week's winners.

This week's Hazies are all about team performances. The NHL was front and centre this week, with three teams that weren't given much of a chance this year moving on to secure a place in the Conference Finals - the Buffalo Sabres, Carolina Hurricanes and the Anaheim Ducks are all prime examples of what it takes to succeed in the new NHL.

HAZEL'S HEROES

NHL
Have I mentioned that the Buffalo Sabres drop kicked the Ottawa SenaTards out of the playoffs? I'm still lovin' this one...for two reasons - 1) It puts me in a great spot to win both of my hockey pools; and more importantly, 2) I love listening to the SenaTards and their fans whine and make excuses for another early exit.

The Sabres won this series without the services of, arguably, their best player in this year's playoffs - Tim Connolly, who is said to be suffering yet another concussion (this one could spell the end of his career). Buffalo, a team lacking a star player, has been getting it done with the likes of Chris Drury, Mike Grier, Derek Roy, J.P Dumont, Ryan Miller and an unheralded defence corps. Buffalo kept finding a way to win and got contributions from every man on the team.

I would like to think that Hazel, as a member of Leaf Nation, would gladly hand out the hardware to any team that knocks the SenaTards out of the playoffs.


The Carolina Hurricanes dominated Martin Brodeur and the New Jersey Devils. Many of the so-called experts picked the Devils to win this series, based on their view that Brodeur would outplay Cam Ward and get the Devils into the Conference Finals. A quick check of Carolina's scoring statistics shows a number of players at the top of the list contributing, but more importantly - their defence chipping in at key times to lead them to victory. While many will rightfully point to the emergence of Eric Staal as a superstar in the league - it didn't start out that way; no one expected Staal to have this kind of year. The Hurricanes have done it with a team concept of youth mixed in with a few vets (Recchi, Brind'Amour, Weight, Hedican and Wesley), good team defence (their players fly up and down the ice faster than our old stand up hockey games with the levers), 18 guys that can skate like the wind, and a deadly power play that will make you pay for taking dumb penalties.

The Hurricanes, along with the Sabres, have to be this season's biggest regular season surprises - and kudos to both of them for carrying it into the playoffs.

The Anaheim Ducks weren't given much of a chance to beat the Flames (except by me of course); and while many picked them to beat Colorado, few expected the Ducks to sweep Colorado. The Ducks used their team speed to beat Colorado all over the ice, they used their size to lean on the Avs and punish them when they got the puck first, and they used good team defence to make sure Bryzgalov wasn't tested too much. Teemu Selanne, who was thought to be washed up, has stepped up and been a leader on this team. Of course, it doesn't hurt to have Scott Niedermeyer on defence...just ask the Devils how much they miss him.

The Ducks are legit - and by all accounts, for years to come. The Hazie for the Ducks has to be presented to Brian Burke, the best GM in hockey...I think Hazel would agree.

MLB
Roy Halladay of the Blue Jays was named the American League Player of the Week. Halladay pitched two complete game victories, with an ERA of 1.00 this past week. In a game against the Devil Rays, Halladay faced 28 batters - one over the minimum. He also shut the Angels down in a game that lasted 1 hour and 59 minutes. Roy is now 5-1 on the season.

A Blue Jays player getting a Hazie has to put a smile on Hazel's face.

Albert Pujols and Nomar Garciaparra were named co-winner of the National League Player of the Week.

Pujols finished the week with a batting average of .429 with 3 HRs and 10 RBI. Pujols leads the majors with 19 HRs and 48 RBI. Pujols or Big Papi - take your pick for the best hitter in the majors.

Garciaparra hit .480 with 3 HRs and 8 RBI this past week. Garciaparra had 25 total bases to record a slugging percentage of 1.000 for the week, an on base percentage of .519 - and scored 5 runs for good measure.

The title of the Monday recap is "No 'I' In Team" - so what is the thread that binds the MLB winners this week? Roy Halladay, Albert Pujols and Nomar Garciaparra are all proud members of Hazel Mae's Hackers - of the Hazelspeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool on yahoo, and were the main drivers in our push from (never mind) up to fifth place. As "Hubie" aptly put it on the message board "looks like Hazel Mae's Hackers opened up a can of whup-ass on us this week." Speaking of the Hazelpeeps Fantasy Baseball Pool - I have been told to post the standings for the week ending May 14th.

68.5 - The Bronx Zoo - (owned by "Sparky")
68.5 - Tom Sawyer - (owned by our resident Steinbrenner "Hubie")
66.0 - Tina's Team - (owned by our rookie GM "Tina")
62.0 - Shuggysux - (owned by "Shuggy")
56.5 - Hazel Mae's Hackers (owned by El Prez...known here as "Pogue")
50.0 - Naughty Girls - (owned by none other than "Renee")
50.0 - Banana Peels - (owned by the "Golden Banana")
46.0 - GB's Steam Boys - (owned by "George")
41.5 - Fighting Bobcats - (owned by Commish "Drisc")
41.0 - Leprachauns - (owned by"Irish")

We haven't decided on what first prize is for the pool - we're hoping someone can come up with an autographed picture of Hazel...all bets are on Renee to deliver - we hope!

Have a great one peeps.

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world...and that my team isn't doing a disservice to your name - we're making our move to the top of the standings.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - because it's playing in the background right now

Koteja (Oh Ballilo) - Stewart Copeland...if you didn't download it the first time I suggested it...good luck finding it now. Maybe I'll G-Mail it to you if you want.

Peesth Out..Buh Bye!

Oilers Pull Off A Shocker

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Not a lot of time this morning, I'm running late today.

The Oilers shocked the Sharks last night, scoring 4 third period goals on route to a 6-3 victory. The Sharks came back from with 3-1 deficit with two quick goals early in the third, and looked poised to complete the comeback - but Edmonton stood their ground and responded with 3 straight goals to beat the Sharks. Fernando Pisani is having an unbelievable playoff series this year, scoring his seventh last night. Game 6 back in Edmonton...I think San Jose forces it to 7 games. Have a great one peeps.

HAZEL'S MONDAY HOROSCOPE
Develop what you've been thinking about doing and you will get somewhere today. Offering your services or something you create will bring about a whole new approach to how you can up your income. 5 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Feel Good Inc. - Gorillaz

Peesth Out...Buy Bye!

Think OLN Is Lovin' The New NHL???

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Three of the NHL's final four teams have been determined. Anaheim, Buffalo and Carolina are all going to be playing in the Conference Finals...San Jose and Edmonton are really slugging it out to see who completes the foursome.

A funny thought crossed my mind today - how in the world is OLN going to sell the NHL Hockey playoffs to the rest of the United States? When they signed the deal, they had to be thinking that bigger markets like New York, Philadelphia, Dallas, Detroit and of course Boston would be watching their teams competing deep into the playoffs. I wonder how many millions they are going to lose now...I wonder how many more viewers they will lose if Edmonton upsets San Jose.
For the record, I picked Anaheim, Buffalo and Carolina to win and advance to the Conference Finals - my fourth pick was San Jose, who I think will eventually win the Stanley Cup over Buffalo. With respect to my playoffs hockey pools, its all good. If San Jose wins, I'm pretty much guaranteed of winning one and finishing second in the other. If Edmonton wins, I'm guaranteed first place in one...with a decent shot of winning the other. So as you can see...it really is all good.

Speaking of pools - I've asked the participants in the Hazelspeeps Baseball Pool if they are ok with me posting the league standings here. Of course I ask this now because my team (Hazel Mae's Hackers) have risen from the depths of the nether regions to 5th place - the biggest move of the week. For those of you keeping track - yes, I am ahead of my friend Renee now...who emailed me on Monday to say

I know you are busy with work-poker-hockey and the sites, BUT geez do somethin' to get outta last place!!!

I took Renee's advice and did a little tinkering with the lineup - we recorded the biggest gain of the week. My goal, when I grow up, is to be like the Tom Sawyer team (owned by our friend "Hubie") who made an astounding 50+ moves in one month. For those of you wondering...Hubie is near the top of the pool, he knows his stuff.

Interesting tidbit about our pool players - NOT ONE team has bothered to pick up Barry Bonds. I wonder, is it because he is having a terrible year - or are we all afraid of being "the team that picked Bonds." I mean...for chrysss sake Giambi is on a roster - someone even picked up Johnny Damon!

A funny thought today - while Red Sox Nation sat through another rainout...they had to be laughing at the fact that the Oakland A's kicked Randy Johnson around today. Rogers kept updating the A's and Yankees today - and on every break talked about how this was Johnson's fourth bad start in a row. On the yahoo site, I talked about how the injuries to Matsui and Sheffield will likely result in the Yankees panicking and throwing MAJOR JACK at Clemens to come in and help hold the fort. After watching Randy Johnson's start today - I think that theory is even more plausible...sorry Red Sox Nation. We'll see though, I have been wrong before (NOT on the NHL playoffs mind you).

Some Sunday night musings from the desk of Pogue. The Sharks just tied Edmonton 1-1 (Scott Thornton goal), so I'm going back to the game. Have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - still lovin' the fact that the SenaTards are gone.

Oh Be Joyful - Matthew Good

"Live your life outside - the life you know"

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!