Chuckster Arrested on DUI suspicion in AZ

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. Benjamin Franklin once said, "Glass, china and reputation are all easily cracked and never well mended. The same can be said about Charles Barkley the reigning Humpty Dumpty of the NBA on TNT circuit. This morning the Associated Press released a report on the arrest of former NBA superstar Charles Barkley in one of the trendiest parts of town in Old Scottsdale, after he ran a stop sign around 1:30 am. The NBA legend refused to submit to a breathalyzer but a sample of his blood was taken by police before he was cited and released. The results of the blood test were not immediately available.

In 1993, he sparked a national debate when professed that athletes are not role models and that he himself was not one. This latest arrest serves as further notice to us that he was not lying when he said those now famous six words. If nothing else the round mound of rebound is a model of a lot of things kids should never want to be such as a loud mouth, overweight, overly opinionated gambling addict and alcoholic. And this is the man that wants to lead the great state of Alabama as governor in 2014. C'mon Chuckster get it together baby!


Many Americans will hit the streets tonight to ring in the New Year with drink and celebration. The culmination of another fantastic year on this planet serves as a easy platform for us all to get out and appreciate the successes and failures of the past year but I want to remind everyone to take care to be safe no matter your holiday plans are for this evening. I don't know about you but I've got too much living left to do to die now. Peace and prosperity to all in 2009 and the years to come!!

Cockroaches and Mice linked to Asthma

The Journal of Black in Higher Education (JBHE) published an article in its weekly online bulletin last month regarding a case study released by researchers at the Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health (CCCEH) at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health. The study specifically identified exposure to mice and cockroach allergens as being one of the leading causes for the high racial disparity of asthma cases among black versus white children.

The report obtained from the Columbia University website also states that and urban children as young as the age of three are at risk if they develop antibodies to the proteins of these mice and cockroaches furthermore, they are more likely to have asthma and other respiratory problems. The website also states that the study, published in the November 2008 issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, is the first to focus on the links between antibody responses to cockroach and mouse proteins and respiratory and allergic symptoms in such a young age group.
This news served as quite the wake up call for this parent of two black children with the upper respiratory disease better known as asthma. These household pests are common throughout the southern region of the United States particularly because of urban development. My natural curiosity led me to find new ways to not only get the word out to the people but also equip them with some tools to help reduce the new asthma cases in our communities and protect our babies.

The Cooperative Extensive Service of the University of Alaska lists two really great tips in their PMC-10071 that you can use to help reduce the cockroach population in your home or apartment.

1. Eliminating hiding and breeding places, including cracks and holes around plumbing fixtures and along baseboards or ceiling moldings. They prefer narrow cracks or crevices for hiding.

2. Removing access to food is also a good preventative measure. Do not leave unwashed utensils or exposed foods overnight. Keep food storage areas clean and keep pet foods in containers with tight-fitting lids.


The Professional Wildlife Removal website suggests the best way to get rid of mice and rats is to never use poison. Poison will never kill all the rodents, and it's only a temporary attempt at a solution - once you kill a few rodents, new ones will just come and take their place. They reproduce very quickly, and space or food supplies will dictate populations. Plus, the use of poisons will frequently mean dead and smelly rats in the attic or walls. The only surefire way to get rid of a rat or mouse problem is to find out how they are getting into the dwelling - seal off all of those areas, up to 1/4 inch wide, with steel, and this will keep them out. Once you prevent ingress/egress, you can trap and remove all the rats for a permanent solution. It's much easier said than done. Even experienced pros can miss the dozens of tiny spots that a home might have that will allow rat or mouse entry. Trapping is another art unto itself. You can't just slap a couple of traps near the attic hatch, they must be placed, dozens of them, strategically on the rat or mouse runways in the attic, on pipes, etc.

Truly the best ways to protect your kids from these common house pests is to have knowledge and remain vigilant in your efforts to keep your home clean and free of garbage and open food containers.

Imperfection Perfection

I was reading the online edition of the Detroit Free Press researching the blog I posted on the Lions before their historic 16th consecutive loss this past Sunday morning and I found this heartwarming story about a fantastic Special Olympian, who has bowled three perfect games. That's right. Three 300 perfect games. It's quite a phenoninal feat that will stand in the record books for ages. If we could only face the challenges in life the way this courageous man attacks the game of bowling we would all be winners and just like Kolan McConiughey, the bowling genius!!


Read full article: http://www.freep.com/article/20081228/SPORTS18/812280389

FLY EAGLES FLY!!! Eagles rout Cowboys 44-6 for final NFC playoff berth

PHILADELPHIA- The game had a ominous beginning for Dallas with a kickoff out of bounds and quickly became a Philly nightmare as the Cowboys were crushed under a mountain of turnovers by the Eagles 44-6 at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday. The lopsided win comes as the resurgent Eagles(9-6-1) are peaking for a playoff run and the ushers out the NFL's drama queens Dallas Cowboys(9-7) for what is sure to be a testy off season in Big D. The Cowboys maligned head coach Wade Phillips was at a loss for an explanation after the game regarding his team's poor play with their season hinging on a victory to continue into the playoffs.

"There's not much I can say about this one. It was a disaster from the opening kickoff, from kicking the ball out of bounds, to two 80 or 90-yard plays to start off the second half when we had a chance to get it back to 21-17 or something like that. We had everything to play for. I think that the turnovers that haunted us all season ended up really hurting us in terms of not getting enough turnovers on defense and giving up too many offensively. We got by with it a lot of the year and won a lot of games, but we were minus 1 or 2 in the turnover ratio and that ended up getting us. It obviously wasn't penalties, it was turnovers." (PhiladephiaEagles.com)



Despite the rocky beginning to the game Dallas had opportunities early to get going in a more positive direction but were not able to capitalize on the early miscues by the Eagles, particularly on crucial third downs. After a quarter eating 8:15 drive that resulted in the Cowboys kicking a game tying field goal the Eagles stormed the field and began their first touchdown drive. On third and seven play, Donovan McNabb eludes the massive Dallas rush and finds running back Correll Buckhalter who scampered 59 yards to the Dallas six. Then on 3rd and goal the Cowboys were again unable to stop the Eagles as McNabb finished the drive plowing into the endzone for a quick score. The Cowboys were so inept on offense on the next drive that they looked like a school girl at the dance for the first time. Tony Romo made two very questionable throws in traffic to tight end Jason Witten and wide receiver Terrell Owens on the failed drive. Both plays were poorly designed and executed.

Now a rapidly tiring Cowboys defense had to find a way to stop the Eagles before the game got out of hand. Enter linebacker Bradie James. On a one of the few highlights for the Cowboys he burst through the Philadephia line and sacked Donnovan McNabb forcing an Eagles punt. But his inspired play was not enough to energize the Dallas offense and they stumble again three and out. With 7:22 remaining in the half Philly began a drive from deep within it's own end of the field and appeared all but stopped again when the Dallas defense stumbled again on third down and seven. This time McNabb hit rookie wide receiver Deshawn Stevens on a long pass that went all the way to the Dallas four yard line. Two plays later on third down the Eagles score again to make it 17 - 3 with 2:03 remaining in the half. Things would only get worse for Dallas in the final two minutes.

Romo usually is at his best in the two minute offense so, the when the Dallas drive began to pick up steam one could easily guess the Cowboys would at least drive into position for another field goal if not a game changing touchdown. But with 1:01 remaining in the half the former "Boy wonder" missed on a toss to Roy Williams and was picked off by the Eagles defense. Then before the Eagles can run out the clock oft troubled cornerback Adam Jones is called for a personal foul penalty on another critical third down play which moved the Eagles into Cowboys territory at the 14 yard line. Not to be out done cornerback Terrance Newman is called for an equally boneheaded pass interference penalty in the endzone moving the ball to the Dallas one. McNabb would find his receiver Celeck on a beautifully arced pass in the back of the endzone for a 21 point lead for the Eagles. Then on the ensuing kickoff Adam Jones has the ball ripped from his arms and is recovered by Philly and with five seconds remaining they are able to line up for another field goal and a 27 - 3 lead at halftime.

At this point one had to consider if the Cowboys and Tony Romo had lost their will to win completely. But down 24 points in the final game of their season, facing another horrible December finish, his team having failed to win its season finale in the last seven years, surely Tony and Cowboys would try to write a different ending to this season. This America's team and they are used to being down and finding a way to rescue victory from the jaws of defeat. Tony Romo to his credit tried his best to take charge of his own destiny when he went against his coache's wishes and keeps a drive alive with a quarteback sneak on 4th and inches. Then then once fan of Brett Farve began to reach deep in his bag of playground magic sensing his team's season slipping away. After he escaped the rabid Philly rush he throws a backward pass to Witten who finds an open Terrell Owens for 42 yards and Dallas is in business at the Philly 12 yard line. But the snakebite quarterback fumbles on the next play and Philly returns the ball 73 yards for a touchdown.

On the next drive Dallas again appeared to shake off their horrific start and was again moving in for a respectable score, when inexplicably running back Marion Barber III was stripped of the ball trying to fight for extra yards by Philly star safety Brian Dawkins. Joselio Hanson was in the right place at the right time and he scooped up the fumbled ball and rumbled 96 yards for another demoralizing touchdown and the score ballooned to 41-3 and Dallas' season was virtually over in the blink of an eye. The Cowboys could only muster a feeble field goal over the final minutes of the stunning defeat and are now faced with numerous questions headed into the 2009 season and the opening of their new stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Eagles will be traveling to Minnesota next week for a wild card playoff game against the Vikings (10-6) who defeated the defending Superbowl champs and #1 seed in this year's playoffs New York Giants 20 -19 earlier on Sunday to win the NFC North Division title. Donovan McNabb and the rest of the Eagles are playing some inspired ball right now and are poised to make a lot of noise in the playoffs. Fly, Eagles, Fly!!!

IMPOSSIBLE DREAM....Detroit Lions fight to keep history of futility in Tampa, CB vows to walk back if they win!!!

GREEN BAY, Wisc.- British abolitionist, Baron Thomas Foxwell Buxton is best known for saying, "With ordinary talent and extraordinary perseverance, all things are attainable." Surely he must have known the Detroit Lions. Hopefully they will use this quote as their battle cry heading into the game today against the Green Bay Packers. With a loss they will achieve a new modern day record for NFL futility, 0-16.

Earlier this week, Lions cornerback Travis Fisher said he wouldn't fly back with the team if they found a way to get the win in Green Bay. "If we win, I ain't catching the plane back home," he said with a laugh "I'll walk back to Detroit." (AP)

Not since the 1976 expansion Tampa Buccaneers went 0-14 has any team failed to win at least one game in a season. In the 16 game era, no team had ever gone 0-15, until last week. But the Lions set a new low with their pitiful peformance last week in the 42-7 drubbing against the visiting New Orleans Saints and their fans shouldn't expect much more today. These Lions have been hibernating for most of the season. The last time the team actually won a game was two days before Christmas last year. Somehow, they found a way to plummet from potential playoff contenders after a 6-2 start to perrenial doormats losing seven of their last eight games and stumbling to a 7-9 record overall.


Now they have to find a way to win in the tough cold treacherous weather conditions of Wisconsin in December.


The temperature at game time is 22 degrees and anticipated wind gusts of up to 23 mph throughout the day.

In this remarkable year we have seen so many things that have inspired us to hope for change in our lives and society.

THE NOT SO GOOD
We have endured natural disasters on all of our coasts, from the wildfires of California to the hurricanes and tornadoes in South Texas and all along the Atlantic coasts. We are experiencing the greatest economic decline since the Great Depression, unemployment rates are at all time highs, our homes are losing value and our cars are worthless and millions of Americans are without healthcare and millions more suffer in poverty.

THE GOOD TO COME FOR AMERICA
We have elected a black man President and we've witnessed the end of the Bush administration.

THE HOPE FOR THE FUTURE ....
If there is any hope left in what has been awe inspiring 362 days so far in 2008 let us all hope that the Lions and the city of Detroit will be able to look back in the years to come and say that despite of over-whelming odds against them on this day and the tremendous adversity the faced, and say that they did not go quietly into the night. They fought back and said NO to making history for futility and just won baby!! You can do it LIONS!!

Feliz Navidad....Mavs win 102-94 over Blazers

AP Photo/Don Ryan


PORTLAND --Dirk Nowitzki goes for 30 and the Dallas Mavericks played Scrooge tonight downing the Portland Trailblazers 102-94 sending the holiday crowd home with a little less cheer and giving the Mavericks a three game win streak.

"We've got a lot of work to do." - Dirk Nowitzki

The game was full of scoring as both teams shot for an outstanding percentage from the field they were a combined 49 percent (74-150). At the end of the first the Mavericks held a slim four point lead 33-29 and were able to hold on through a second quarter that was filled with action.

With about six minutes remaining in the half Dirk (twinkle toes) Notwitzki scored on twirling layup to push the Mavericks lead nine then 10 because he was fouled on his pirouette to the hoop.

But the young Blazers did not blink. They moved the ball down the court and lost guard Jason Kidd on a Greg Oden screen that freed Rudy Fernandez who hit a clutch three to pull the Blazers to within seven. The teams would trade misses before Dirk's foul on former Maryland Terrapin Steve Blake, who made two free throws and suddenly the game was at five. Guard Brandon Roy could not be handled off the dribble and he strolled through a porous Mavericks defense laying up softly over Josh Howard and Dirk to bring Portland back to within three forcing a Dallas timeout with 2:36 remaining in the quarter.

Out of the timeout Jason "the Jet" Terry laced a mid range jumper over Blake to put the lead back to five. Then the Blazers got cold and started to clang shots off the rim. Dirk was fouled and hit two free throws now the lead was back to seven. Still the Blazers would not go away and they hung tough with stout defense and timely three point shots. As the final seconds of the half ticked away Dirk floated a high arching shot over former high school phenom Travis Outlaw. His high kneed, Magic Johnson like jumper was in a word indefensible. Guess the fifth year pro should have payed more attention in class because Dirk would school him all night and Dallas took a their four point first quarter lead to half time 59-55.

After the half, the game went along swingingly until about the 4:41 mark when the Mavericks Josh Howard shoved Blazers center Joel Pryzbilla to the floor on a entry pass. The uncalled for rough play quickly earned him a flagrant one from veteran official Robert Delaney. Pryzbilla was also given a technical foul by the referee who is well-known for his hard-nosed approach to rough play and disdain for foul mouths. Yet, Howard continued to jaw at him and he was rewarded with quick another technical and he was ejected. The Mavericks unfazed and unimpressed by his Ron Artest like play, were able to hold on to a slim two point edge before the Blazers came back again.

Travis Outlaw would get his revenge on Dirk as the quarter wound down stripping him repeatedly helping the Blazers capitalize. The raucous Rose Garden crowd was treated to a dazzling rebound and score by Rudy Fernandez off a Steve Blake missed three point attempt to take a three point lead of their own 80-77 into the fourth and deciding quarter.

But a poor shooting start to the quarter by Portland (0-4 FGs) allowed the Mavericks grab a brief one point lead when Brandon Bass stroked a slippery jumper on a pass from Jose Barea. The Blazers took a time out and were able to regain the lead quickly as LaMarcus Aldridge lifts and scored over Dirk, 82-81 Blazers.

The teams dueled back and forth all night and they would continue down the stretch. Blazers Rudy Fernandez and Travis Outlaw combined youth, speed and athleticism to push the Portland lead to three again at the nine minute mark but Dallas would regroup for the final minutes. Jason Terry and Jason Kidd would hit back to back three pointers to give the Mavericks a 95-92 lead and the Blazers would never get any closer.

Moments later more hustle play from the smallest guy on the floor Barea would give Dallas a 97-92 lead at 3:33 capping a fierce 10-2 run. Portland coach Nate McMillan called a time out hoping to come up with one last Christmas miracle to derail the Mavericks express.

But out of the time out it was Barea again finding a wide open Brandon Bass in the lane who powered home a thunderous dunk to push the lead to a more comfortable seven for the Mavericks.

The teams would exchange baskets again before veteran point man Jason Kidd would take the air out of the ball slowly taking the ball up the floor and the Mavericks got hard earned road victory.

OH - NO ROMO!!! Dallas loses tough one in final seconds to Steelers 20-13.

PITTSBURGH- Cold, tired, and hurting the Dallas Cowboys waste a masterful defensive effort and fall short of victory in the "Steel City" today 20-13 at Heinz Field. The lost ushers in the month of December with it's usual tenor for the Cowboys and gives the New York Giants the NFC East title. The Cowboys knew coming in that getting the victory would be tough, if not impossible against the Steelers number one rated defense.

The Dallas Cowboys (8-5), winners of their last three games came in without the services of their bruising running back Marion Barber who was out with a toe injury suffered in the Thanksgiving win over the Seahawks. His rookie understudy Tashard Choice appeared to be the answer as he was an effective stand in earning 88 yards on 23 carries in his first NFL start. Yet, the vaunted Steelers (9-4) defense proved to be worthy of all of the hype.

Dallas quarterback Tony Romo had his worst game since his triumphant return against the Washington Redskins weeks ago going, 19 for 36 with three interceptions and a fumble lost. Facing the relentless Steelers pass rush, Tony Romo had been able to avoid making the one mistake that would cost his team the game until the final moments. For most of the night he had used his elusiveness to avoid sacks and keep scoring drives alive. When he heaved a desperation strike to Owens in the back of the end zone late in the third quarter the score pushed the Cowboys lead to 10 points. The play was in a word Romo-rrific.

But Romo and Cowboys' luck would run out as Pittsburgh cornerback Deshea Townsend intercepted Romo's ill advised toss to tight end Jason Witten and returned it for the game winning score. On a second and eight pass play deep inside of your own territory with less than two minutes to go and a full compliment of timeouts passing the ball should have been the last thing on his mind. Especially, in a tie game on the road in those windy conditions.

The Cowboys also wasted a golden opportunity to gain an advantage in the NFC playoff race as they begin another December with a thud. The lost by the Atlanta Falcons has for the moment given Dallas a slight edge in the NFC Wildcard race but things don't get any easier for this team. Next up is another tough match-up against the hated Giants. The G-men (11-2) took it on the chin pretty good today losing 20-14 against the rejuvenated Eagles (7-5-1) at home. They will definitely come into the historic final game with a lot to prove. Let's just hope the Cowboys are ready to prove that this will be a December to remember for their fans and more importantly that they are ready to become playoff contenders.

SEC coaching pioneer Sylvester Croom resigns

STARKVILLE, Miss. - Mississippi State University’s Sylvester Croom announced Saturday that he was officially resigning as the head football coach. The sudden decision to resign comes to some but not all after the schools' most lopsided performance a 45-0 drubbing last Friday by #25 Ole Miss in the famed "Egg Bowl".

"Five years ago, Mississippi State gave me the unprecedented opportunity to be a head football coach in the Southeastern Conference and to build a program based upon a strong foundation," Croom said. "I believe the foundation has been set for those goals to be reached under the leadership of someone else, and it was my decision to resign."

The former Alabama star was an assistant at his alma mater from 1977-86, then spent 17seasons as an assistant in the NFL. Last season after the Bulldogs posted an 8-5 record and won the Liberty Bowl over UCF, Coach Croom was awarded the prestigious SEC Coach of the year award. However, in our win now or go home era of college and professional sports the expectations of fans, boosters and alumni can and most often does lead to quality coaches being shown the door.

The weight of a 4-8 record this season and a 21-38 record overall during his tenure proved to be too much for the SEC's first African American head coach endure. His players were alerted of his decision to resign via text message from the school's officials but many felt that he would not return next season and some defended the coach after the horrible defeat on Friday.

"I think it is unfair," wide receiver Delmon Robinson said of the criticism. "It's all about the players. We've got to win and we've got to go out there and execute coach's plays." (Dallasmorningnews.com)

Mississippi State will begin its search for a new head football coach immediately. All current assistant football coaches remain under contract and will continue performing their duties until the new head coach is hired. Kudos to the MSU organization and administration for breaking down racial barriers in the south by hiring Coach Croom five years ago then, allowing him the dignity of resigning quietly. Although, he will no longer be their coach his impact on the players and the MSU family will not be forgotten.

“Coach Croom instilled in our football program a level of academic commitment, good sportsmanship, and good citizenship that represents our institution well,” Interim President Dr. Roy H. Ruby said. “The Mississippi State family wishes only the best for Coach Croom and his family.” (Mstateathletics.com)

Cowboys feast on Seahawks, 34-9 for third straight win!!

Doug Pensinger / Getty Images

IRVING, Texas - The Dallas Cowboys(8-4) used a stifling defensive effort and another superb performance from Tony Romo and the rejuvenated offense to carve up the woeful Seattle Seahawks (2-10) 34-9 in the last Thanksgiving Day game played at famed Texas Stadium. The win is their third consecutive victory since Tony Romo returned from a pinkie injury on his throwing hand.

Without their starting quarterback they had only mustered a poor 2-4 record and many had begun to write them off. However, today's dominating win over a hapless and beat up Seahawks team, coupled with last week's victory over the upstart 49ers's and their victory over the hated Redskins, collectively seem to suggest that they are back on track and ready to re-claim their position as the favorite to hoist the Lombardi trophy at the end of the season.

"We have a lot of options in this offense," Romo said. "When you've got that, and your offensive line gives you time, you can just wait a little longer (in the play) for something to develop. I think we did that." (Dallas Cowboys.com)

The stingy Dallas defense was surely up to the challenge of playing on the main stage before the national TV audience on Thanksgiving. And with the entire country watching they turned in one of their best efforts so far this season by not allowing an offense touchdown all day and forcing two turnovers (fumble and interception). "We get a lot of hits on the quarterback. It's something that you have to do, I think, to be able to win. Our pass rush was really good. Hasselbeck had not been sacked that much (12 times). Their team overall had, but he hadn't. I thought we really got after him and got after the passing game." Linebacker DeMarcus Ware had an awesome three sack performance while Bradie James (2), Tank Johnson (1) and Greg Ellis (1) also contributed to the seven sack barrage.



Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, center, is sacked by Dallas linebacker Bradie James, left, during the second quarter.
(November 27, 2008) Associated Press

Ware and the rest of the Cowboys still recognize that they face some very real challenges ahead in December if they are going to realize their goal of reaching the Superbowl. First, things first, they have to get into the playoffs.

"Obviously, this helps out a lot but I think somebody in the locker room said last week, if the season ended today, we're still left out (of the playoffs)," Witten said. "You've got to have that mentality and understand the challenges that are ahead. It's still going to be even tougher as December rolls around." (AP)

But, are they really ready for December? Really? If history is any indication, the answer to that question is a resounding, "NO!!" The Cowboys have not had a winning record in December since the 2001 season. Their brutal upcoming schedule will not be easy. It includes games against the tough Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3) on the road, back to back home tilts against the defending champion New York Giants (10-1) and the Ray Lewis led Baltimore Ravens (7-4) before the season finale in Philadelphia against the Eagles (5-6-1). But these Cowboys are up to the challenge and seeking to write a different chapter to their December season this year.


"We've still got to go forward and keep putting together wins to get in the playoffs, "said Tony Romo. "Our confidence level is that on any given Sunday we can compete with the best of anybody. It'll be interesting to see how we do going forward."

Colts stomp Vikings 59-15 to open season

GARLAND, Texas- B.C. Forbes once said, "History has demonstrated that the most notable winners usually encountered heartbreaking obstacles before they triumphed. They won because they refused to become discouraged by their defeats." The Jackson MST Vikings will be reflecting on these words as the look for clues to answer their horrific season opening loss 59-15 to the Sam Houston Colts.










The capacity crowd of mostly Colts fans were treated to a dominating performance that saw the Colts push ahead early and never look back as they took a commanding 30 point half-time lead before putting away the Vikings in the second half. Jackson point guard Reggie Lockhart (#2) who lead the team with eight points on 50 percent shooting from 3pt range said, "Man, I don't know we had some mishaps, but with more communication and if we work as a team and do better on defense we should have a better result next time."




















Going back to the drawing board and starting fresh will be the best remedy for the young Vikings. Head coach Cummings told his team after the game, "We have a lot of work to do, we had pre-game jitters but be ready to practice tomorrow."

Photos by: Reggie "Lockdawg" Lockhart

Heeeeerrrrree's ROCKO(err Roscoe)!!

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas - Tennessee Williams once said, “Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose.” Well if that is true I am confident that my life has been enriched 10 times over.

The family and I were in Grand Prairie last weekend to celebrate my youngest nephew's (Jamar Weathers) first birthday, when we met Rocky, well Rocko then Roscoe! Long story but I'll get through it ;).



We had just finished up at my other nephew's house Trevon for his 7th birthday party and while we were enjoying the majesty of the fall Texas atmosphere in the park, we were surprised and delighted to meet a friendly little Dachshund puppy. He had wandered up to our party away from his family that was playing in the not too distant field. Instantly we were smitten by this adorable little fellow and my fiancee Tanya had to have him...
We talked to his owners and to our amazement they were very willing to give us the puppy. We were so elated that after offering the man a handshake to seal the deal, I couldn't wait to get him home so we could start our lives together! We rushed out to get him a kennel and a little hoodie. His youthful energy has brought an immediate rejuvenating spirit to the entire house.
Since we got him home we have been trying to get him acclimated to us and us acclimated to him and somehow his name has changed twice. When we got him at the park, his name was Rocky. We didn't think it was fitting so we changed it almost immediately to Rocko, then for some reason after three days, it was changed again, this time for good to Roscoe. I didn't like the change initially but the name has begun wear on me.
Sadly, our dearest little friend has given us quite a scare today. He had been out in the yard yesterday sniffing and eating grass in the backyard. When we checked his kennel this morning he had puked and then after riding with me to take the kids to school he had a small drink and puked again.

After I left for work he puked again. That's when Tanya got scared! She had been hearing about a really serious viral disease, Parvovirus and when she researched his symptoms, we felt they were too close for comfort. We know so little about him. The family that we got him from said he was seven months old and he has only been with us for four days so without any documentation we could only pray.

After talking with our neighbor, we are hopeful, his puking was only related to an upset stomach set on by eating grass. He's a real champ so I'm confident he'll pull through!!



Photos by: Reggie "Lockdawg" Lockhart

REMEMBERING THOSE WHO SERVE...

DALLAS,Texas - Duty, Honor, Country. Veterans Day 2008 is significant to for many reasons. This year our country elected the first African-American a Democrat from Illinois Barack Obama president. Yet on a day reserved long ago to honor those American patriots that have served this great country, our brave servicemen and women are still valiantly fighting two wars on terror on foreign soil paying the ultimate price for our freedoms.



In Nov 1919, President Thomas Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Nov 11 the first commemoration of Armistice Day. On Oct 8, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed HR-7786, changing Armistice Day to Veteran's Day (Richland Chronicle)

Today, marks the 2021st day since President Bush's "mission accomplished" declaration but still we are no closer to finding Osama Bin Laden or the real culprit's behind 9/11 nor ending war on terror in America or the world. Hopefully, with the historic electoral college landslide presidential election, real change will finally arrive in Washington and we will find a way to end the war in Iraq victoriously while regaining our foothold in Afghanistan to root out Bin Laden, bring peace to the Middle East and bring our troops home!

I recently had the privilege of taking my son to visit the Vietnam Memorial in historic Fair Park.
I could not help but feel a special sense of pride watching him absorb a little of the historical significance of Veteran's Day while reflecting in the memorial's reflecting pool. Those of us who have served share a special bond that will never be broken. I wanted to take this moment to say thank you my brothers and sisters in arms and wish them and their families well during and throughout the holiday season. Your sacrifice and dedication to duty, honor, and country will be grossly under repaid but never forgotten.

Photos by: Reggie "Lockdawg" Lockhart

THERE AINT NO FUTURE IN YA FRONTIN!! OBAMA 338- McCAIN155

DALLAS- At precisely 11 pm eastern time it was announced to the world that Democratic nominee Barack Obama would be the winner of the 2008 United States presidential election. For the first time in modern American history, an African-American (bi-racial, whatever we know what colors the coffee) will take the highest office in the land. The face of America has changed forever.

Mama, we made it!!

Everyone in the world take notice, the world is not coming to an end

CONGRATULATIONS AMERICA!!!!

His opponent Republican nominee Senator John McCain had just finished up his concession speech to a live Republican audience when the feelings of being a part of something truly historic struck me. Not since the re-election of Bill Clinton in 1996 have I been so involved and personally connected to a presidential election. Euphoria is the best way to describe the compulsive emotion that is driving my fingers in their fevered typing spree. The next chapters of this country's majestic fantasy of the American dream will be lived out in live and living color.

"YES WE CAN!!"

A black man is going to lead the United States of America the leader of the free world. He will face enormous pressures starting first with the bleak economy. We will all be watching with so many watchful and hopeful eyes as he takes the reins of the country on inauguration day. In what has been depicted by many noted economists as the worst economic period since the Great Depression (remember "when America sneezes the world gets a cold") we will send in the youngest American president to bring about the promise of change that got him elected. But we must practice patience. Rome wasn't built in day. Only burnt in one day!!


YES WE DID!!Going against the grain won't be easy. Together, we will take many steps as a society over the next few years as the barriers of color, race, religion, and sex all began to break and be reborn. This pleasant sensation that is overwhelmingly swinging throughout me is fantastically significant as President-elect Obama, prepares to lead the greatest country in the world.


YES WE DID!!The reaction and emotion to this historic night will last a lifetime and will be written by many for ages the to come. This feeling of pride will be felt by the greater many of us Americans great and small, as we begin the real transition forward into the future. The "city on the hill" that Ronald Reagan spoke so eloquently about in the past has returned to it's greater history and chosen this time to be a "maverick".

YES WE DID!!The chains of slavery have officially been broken and the sourness of Jim Crow turned bittersweet. No longer will those old hateful images which portrayed an America, still in it's infancy during the turbulent 1960s, define this country. On this historic night, I am the proudest that I have ever been of my country. Get ready world, at this very moment we all are confidently stepping into the next millennium of life.


President-elect Barack Obama addresses the nation:

TI VOTED!!!Rapper votes with felony under Georgia law!!

Photo: Gregory Smith/AP Photo
GEORGIA- The KING has done it again. On Wednesday the 28 year old rapper T. I. (born Clifford Harris), cast his vote early for this year's presidential election.

Though recently convicted on gun possession charges, he has remained driven to get out and use his voice to be an activist and advocate for getting out the message to vote. Tip is the national spokesperson for the nonpartisan group Respect My Vote's "Get Out the Vote" campaign.

The importance of this year's election was so significant that Mr. Harris researched on his own and found that he is eligible to vote in Georgia because the state constitution says that to be able to vote, you have to have served your entire sentence, which includes all probation and fines and any other stipulations," said Matt Carrothers, the Secretary of State's director of media relations. (MTV.com)

Since he doesn't have to begin serving his prison sentence until March next year and is not currently on any other type of probation he only needed to be re-registered in his county to cast his ballot for the first time in his young life. "Feels like I've taken advantage of my right to become a part of the democracy," T.I. said in the release. "It was definitely worth standing in line and doing all the things people complain about voting. I think it's more than worth it." (MTV.com)

(PH) INALLY A (PH )ANTASTIC PHILLIES WORLD SERIES WIN!! Phillies defeat Rays 4-3, take series 4-1

PHILADELPHIA, PA - HOW BOUT THEM PHILLIES!!! The city of "brotherly love" is on cloud nine today. Finally, after 28 long agonizing years the Philadelphia Phillies are World Series champions again. They defeated the scrappy upstart Tampa Bay Rays 4-3 in the longest World Series game played. Remarkably, their second championship comes on the anniversary of their first title.

"Thanks for your support! And let's do it again!'', said the Phillies 71 year old General Manager Pat Burrell. This youthful Phillies team is definitely capable to make another series title run but only two teams have repeated as series champions (Yankees and Blue Jays) in the last 30 years.


Cole Hamels, the MVP of the World Series, is only 24.

The much maligned Phillies and their rabid fans, really deserved this much anticipated championship. After setting a new low for futility last year when they lost their 10,000th game in MLB and franchise history, taking home the title this year has to be pretty sweet. Pitcher Jaime Moyer, a Philly native can attest to the sweetness of getting the coveted World Series win in his hometown. "It's not easy in Philadelphia,'' he said. " But when you win, it makes it that much sweeter.'' (AP)

The Closing Argument.

Barack Obama takes the stage with former President Bill Clinton at a campaign rally in Kissimmee, Florida. (Reuters Graphic / Jason Reed)

FLORIDA - Democratic nominee Barack Obama "palled around with a President" last night after he delivered what some of his campaign staff have dubbed "The Closing Argument" to America. The night definitely belonged to the Democratic nominee. With his opponent reeling due to a poor stance on the economy, a cash strapped campaign and infighting among members of the rank and file of the Republican party, Sen Obama went on a full press the attack with former President Bill Clinton at his side in the battle ground state of Florida.

Some say that the nationally televised ad, had the production value of a major motion picture and did little to show that he is ready to be president. To those people I can only ask them,"just what in the world were you watching last night?"

Admittedly, I must note that the televised ad was visual masterpiece. The warmth and patriotic symbolism could not have been more professionally orchestrated and sincere. Featuring several touching life accounts from real Americans, like Rebecca Johnston whose middle class family is finding harder and harder to make ends meet because of rising healthcare and food costs. Or Larry and Juanita Stuart, a retired family in Ohio who have had to take a loan on their home to their pay medial bills. Their stories helped him to reaffirm his plans to revitalize the economy by putting the working middle-class first and fixing the broken healthcare system.

Sen Obama's Republican adversary, Sen John McCain was expectedly critical of Obama reminding all of the broken promise to use only public financing to fund his campagin. "When you're watching this gauzy, feel-good commercial, just remember that it was paid for with broken promises," said McCain. (Boston Globe)

There are only 5 days left until the election and early voting ends this Friday on Halloween. I don't know if he closed the deal last night but, he definitely provided a beacon of hope to those of us in this country that really want change!!

HELLO WIN COLUMN!!! Dallas eeks out defensive win against Bucs 13-9.

AP Photo/LM Otero

DALLAS - Whew! The fat lady can rest for another week. The Cowboys(5-3) "D" returned to form to make the difference today and possibly the rest of the season. The stifling "D" earned the hard fought 13 -9 win against the high flying Tampa Buccaneers (5-3) before a capacity crowd at Texas Stadium. It wasn't pretty early or often, but it was pretty effective.

"Coming through at the end, that's what you have to do," Phillips said. "Our defense certainly stepped up today. Our offense had a tough time, but that touchdown before the half was a big, big play." (ESPN.com)



Fast Facts

• Leading by four, the Cowboys stopped a late Buccaneers drive in Dallas territory to hold on and snap their two-game losing skid.

• Brad Johnson went 19-for-33 for 122 yards with 1 TD and no interceptions. He had three interceptions last week against the Rams.

• The Buccaneers had six drives into Dallas territory but come away with only three field goals. Jeff Garcia had 228 passing yards with no TDs or picks in the loss.

• Terrell Owens had five catches for 33 yards. He has only 11 catches and 100 receiving yards in his past three games.

• Cowboys LB DeMarcus Ware failed to record a sack, snapping his NFL record-tying streak of 10 games with at least one sack.

-- ESPN research






The last few weeks have been really tough mentally and physically for the players and coaching staff. Getting the hard nosed win helped everyone breathe a much needed sigh of relief. After the defense held Tampa out of the end zone in the waning seconds of the fourth quarter to seal the victory, the Cowboys sideline erupted with elation. But, this veteran team remains poised and optimistic towards the future. "If we allow it to be more than a win, then it can be," linebacker Greg Ellis said. "We have to take the same approach each week, but if we don't build on this, then this one will be just like one of the rest."(dallasnews.com)

The chance of a lifetime...

ATLANTA, Georgia - Ann Nixon Cooper, 106 years old, lived during a time when blacks and women did not have the right to vote. Now she relishes the opportunity to vote for the first African American presidential nominee, Barack Obama. She proudly boasts that she is ready to see the first black president. "I ain't got time to die," she said.

Ms. Cooper and her late husband Dr. Albert Cooper have always been involved in the black social movements of the time. "Our days and nights were just social affairs," she said. The home was a center of Atlanta's black society and the scene of many parties. Celebrities, including the late singer Nat King Cole, dropped in to visit.

The road to the White House is still a long winding perilous journey filled with uncertainty and Ms. Cooper was poignant in pointing out the significance of the Obama nomination. "Even if he didn't win, I was happy for him just to be nominated," said the former socialite. "

With her usual eloquence and grace she gleefully voted early this year for her candidate. She offers to young people some very sound advice for happy living.

"Keep smiling. No matter what, you get out and vote. Vote your choice."


Read the full story at: Cnn.com

POLITICAL FANATICS MUST BE STOPPED!!

They done up and done it now!!!! Well at least "this one" has.


Ashely Todd a Republican college student, McCain supporter and resident psycho, concocted a whale of tale that has pulled the McCain campaign down to new depths and opened some very old American race wounds. In the sick sad spirit of the lynching of Emmett Till or the absurd claim lobbed by Susan Smith, Todd proclaimed to police and on the internet that a large African American Obama supporter had mugged her.

Not only did he steal the $60 she had just gotten out of the ATM in a rough Pittsburgh neighborhood, he also punched and kicked her a couple of times before carving a backwards "B" in her face. And why did she say that it happened, because she had a McCain/Palin bumper sticker on her car.

Guess what? She confessed... IT WAS ALL FRIGGING LIE!! A disgusting, revolting, race dividing lie.

Is this really how you want to be remembered? Do you really want the record to show that you were so afraid that your candidate had no chance to win that you would resort to this sort of vile racist tactic? I was so shocked and repulsed by this report. The fact that it has gotten so much time on mainstream television just makes things worse.

With only 11 days left you have to know that we've only touched the surface. The claims will become more egregious. But as we inch closer to history be not afraid they won't get this one like they did in 2000. Be not intimidated. Carry on the fight until the end. We must not be deterred by their hate. Our focus must remain sound and just. Keep the hope alive!! We will get the change that we need. GO OBAMA!!! GO BIDEN!!!

Lyfe arrested.

Wow. When are we going to learn to stop and think. I mean it's bad enough to be out drinking and driving but the TMZ report says he had a gun.

Now that dog just don't hunt. ...

What must he be thinking? I am only a passing fan of his work and I admit that I don't care to know all of his business (his prior conviction was for arson). But, by all other reports it appeared that he had been rehabilitated and was an all round good brother.

Now this. All I can say is keep your head up, Lyfe. Trouble don't last always. But when are we gone learn to stop and think.

15 days to go.... Obama gets Colin Powell's endorsement

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Once thought by many as the odds on favorite to become the first African American president of the United States former Secretary of State Gen. Colin Powell crosses party lines and officially endorsed Democratic nominee Sen. Barack Obama for president on Meet the Press Sunday morning.

Gen Powell's endorsement is a major coup for Sen. Obama's campaign and another tough blow to Sen. McCain's. The former Secretary of State gave a very loquacious tongue lashing to the Republican party over the negative tone of the McCain campaign and he was also very disapproving of the choice of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin for vice-president.

Cowboys roll-over for Rams, lose 34-14

ST. LOUIS, Mo. - The Dallas Cowboys rolled into the Edward Jones dome already singing the blues. After the 34-14 shellacking they suffered at the hands of the St. Louis Rams today, they are surely crying their weeping eyes out tonight.

With Tony Romo sidelined nursing a displaced pinkie injury suffered in last week's lost to the Cardinals. The Cowboys put their offense in the hands of 40-year old backup quarterback Brad Johnson. Being thrust into the spotlight was not new for Johnson and he seemed to have a good command of the offensive unit as Dallas rushed out to a quick, short-lived lead at 7-0. Their opening possession was a decent well-balanced attack. Then without provocation, the Cowboys seemed to enter the twilight zone and by the end of the first quarter the punch drunk Cowboys were down 21-7. The Rams defense was quicker and took full advantage of the many Cowboys mistakes.

"You thought you'd have a successful day," Johnson said. "As the day went on, we had miscues across the board. It kind of just got worse from there." (Dallascowboys.com)

Dallas had no rhythm to the offense and the defensive secondary was porous to put it light. Brian Stewart's unit looked puzzled and defeated for most of the game although there was one lone bright spot. Dallas' star defensive end DeMarcus Ware logged a sack for his 10th consecutive game tying a NFL record set by Denver's Simon Fletcher. He would rack up a total of three sacks and a forced fumble for the game. Although the team going down to it's third loss in four games soured any celebration about the record.












"It's not a big deal today," he said. "Maybe at another time. But right now, I'm focused on getting this team back to where we belong." (Dallascowboys.com)

Sure the injuries have transformed this team into a shell of its' former self. After going 13-3 and winning the NFC East Championship last year before being bounced from the playoffs by eventual Superbowl champion New York Giants. The Cowboys were odds on pick by many to hoist the Lombardi trophy at the end of this season. Now they are facing the reality of not making the playoffs at all if the recent losing trend continues.

A resilient Wade Phillips appeared to be stumped by his team's poor play but he wasn't throwing in the towel by any means after the game. "I don't have an answer for it," Phillips said. "If I did, we wouldn't have played like we did. But we're going to do something about it." (Dallascowboys.com)

The Cowboys (4-3) now have very little margin for error. Their next two games are going to be crucial for this team to remain in contention. A home game next week against a rejuvenated Tampa Bay Buccaneers squad (5-2) and then a tough road game against the defending Superbowl Champion New York Giants (5-1) before they get a much needed rest. Owner Jerry Jones whose thirst for winning is never quenched tried to remain optimistic about the immediate future of his banged up team.



"It is not the time to sit around and moan and feel sorry," Jones said. "Our fans are expecting more and they expect us all to get in there and come up with anything we can do to make us better." (Dallascowboys.com)