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Dome Pondering - 2009 Year in Review

Well, here we are, within two minutes and taking a knee, being fouled and hitting our foul shots, and signaling for Mariano Rivera to shut the door on 2009. And with Rivera, we know that it is indeed over! 2009, like every year, has brought more happenings, tragedy, history, and personal change to us all. And although a much more difficult year than most of us have experienced, 2009 brought life in a special way that will help shape us for 2010. So before the buzzer sounds and the final out is recorded, let's look back on the year that closed out this decade.

Dome Pondering – Year in Review History

Crucial Moment of the Year: 2009 – US Airline Terrorist Attack Foiled 2008 – Collapse of Lehman Brothers and Buyout of AIG 2007 – Virginia Tech Shootings 2006 – Foiled Terrorist Plot in England World Affairs Issue of the Year: 2009 – Michael Jackson’s Death 2008 – Global Economy 2007 – Death of Benazir Bhutto 2006 – North Korea Missile Crisis Inspirational Story of the Year: 2009 – President Obama’s Inauguration 2008 - Barack Obama's Acceptance Speech 2007 – Virginia Tech Recovery 2006 – City of New Orleans Random Story of the Year: 2009 – Somali Pirates Take Hostage of U.S. Ships 2008 - Myanmar Cyclone 2007 – Minnesota Bridge Collapse 2006 – Cory Lidle’s Death M ost Controversial Story of the Year: 2009 – United States Healthcare Reform 2008 - Government Bailouts 2007 – The Jena 6 2006 – Illegal Immigration in the United States Most Overrated Story of the Ye

Dome Pondering Import - “Not Just Tiger’s Temptations”

Here is an article that was sent to me. The writer, former Major League Baseball player Doug Glanville, touches base on several issues that face professional athletes. More specifically, the temptations and the type of lifestyle that quickly evolve when one enters the world of professional sports. Glanville sheds new light on the Tiger Woods saga from the perspective of a professional athlete.

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Inglourious Basterds (2009)

What’s it about? A series of events in Nazi-ruled France bring a Jewish-American rogue militia (The Basterds), a surviving French-Jewish Woman, and the entire Third Reich to ahead. Who is in it? Brad Pitt – Lt. Aldo Raine Melanie Laurent – Shosanna Dreyfus Christopher Waltz – Col. Hans Landa

A New Yorker’s Note To The MTA

Its stories like this one ( MTA votes for Major Service Cuts to Fill $383M Budget Gap ) that often causes yours truly, and well everyone, to shake their heads in disbelief. After hearing about the possible cuts in service by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), and the outrage and backlash it has created from the public, I have decided to write a letter MTA Chairman, Jay H. Walder.

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Fast and Furious (2009)

What’s it about? After the death of his girlfriend, Dominic Toretto and Brian O’Connor (Now working for the FBI) team up to bring down a heroin importer, and also in attempt to free his name. Who is in it? Vin Diesel – Dominic Toretto Paul Walker – Brian O’Connor Michelle Rodriguez – Leticia Ortiz Jordana Brewster – Mia Toretto

Watching and Waiting For The Next Big Wreck

What if I said to you, in order to become a columnist for a well-known, nationally read newspaper, all you needed to have were years of experience as a prostitute, how would you respond? Or if you wanted to appear on a television show watched by over two million people weekly, with the opportunity to eventually have your own show, qualifications began at being Italian, tanned, muscular, and completely arrogant with the ability to fist pump being a plus; what would you say? Unfortunately, (and I do mean unfortunately) that is the reality (or lack thereof) we live in. One where Ashlee Dupre now offers relationship advice as a columnist for the New York Post , and being a “Gudio” puts you amongst the stars. As a person that holds education and experience in the highest regards that it should, it is downright insulting to see where some of our forms of communication has gone. Gone are the days when journalism and acting took years of training, education, and paying your dues. Now,

Missing the Issue in President Obama’s First Year

I’m beginning to worry about Barack Obama as President. There was no other way to begin this piece than to just get that out there. After all, there is no easy way of easing into that statement without alienating and offending a few supporters. Yet, I do believe it is something that it is a thought that is often tip-toed around because of what President Obama means to this nation: hope. A change after eight years of futility under President Bush. However, because of that hope, President Obama has seemed to be given a certain amount of equity, a longer allowance of rope, than President Bush was ever given. With that said, I’m not here to lead a full-on revolt against President Obama’s policies, leadership, values, or ideas for this nation. I’m not affiliated with any party. No blue stripes. No red stripes. At the same time, I will admit, I’m not gun-ho on politics. I am aware of what is going on, however, I do not fall into debating about the “politics of politics”, per say. I’ve a

Metropolitan’s Mishaps Mirror Midtown

It seems every year Met fans are on edge about the way things are going with their team. Just waiting for things to finally get turned around. And to be truthfully honest, I don’t blame them at all. The way things have been for the last several years in Flushing, have striking similarities to that other organization over in midtown that also dons blue and orange – the New York Knicks. The New York Mets, coming off a disastrous 2009 campaign, now find themselves left out of the hot stove season. In fact, after losing out on John Lackey (whom they never made an offer to) and seeing Roy Halladay move to the Phillies, the Mets could be set up of another disappointing season. From the mishaps in design and character at CitiField to what seems like continued mismanagement, when does it end for the New York Mets? And most importantly, for their fans? It is always fascinating when certain baseball fans complain about high-payroll teams and the luxury in abilities compared to smaller m

1 Night. 2 Companies. 3 Hours: Fans will get the Pin.

January, 4th, 2010 – mark it down. After almost ten years of enduring a wrestling-business environment where all aspects became cut and dry (WWE and everything else behind), things will be very interesting for one night.  Yes, for one night, wrestling fans will enjoy a bit of nostalgia, and get an option on a Monday Night. Back is the excitement. Back is the can’t miss feeling. And, back is that soreness in your thumb from flipping back and forth for two-plus hours.  January 4th, 2010. The Monday Night Wars are back...well sort of. Now for those that have no idea what the Monday Night War are or mean, and you consider yourself a wrestling fan, before you read on, you need to take a moment to do a little bit of research . However, if you do, and are not aware of what is going on, TNA Wrestling is taking a chance (and a huge chance it is) and will be going head-to-head against Monday Night Raw for one night. 

Disappointing and Disgusting: Tiger Sheds New Light on Big Issue

As stated before earlier in the week, “Tiger, what a mistake.” And a big mistake indeed.  As the year comes to a close, and of all the happenings that 2009 gave us, this one is quite possibly the biggest head scratcher of them all. Yes Kanye, you are now off the hook. Tiger Woods and the infamous Thanksgiving night crash has gone from concern over the golfer’s condition, to the unveiling of a huge gap in character not seen before. As the days progress, and the media sinks their claws deeper into his life and this story, the more that is uncovered about Tiger Woods, his extra marital affairs, and his secret life. And as this coverage continues, the more we are revealed to the real Tiger Woods.  No, not the fist pumping, swoosh wearing, Buick driving, Gatorade drinking, American Express using, green jacket wearing stud of athlete that we all knew. But Tiger Woods, the man. It is now apparent that the difference between "Tiger Woods” and Tiger Woods are as

Dome Pondering Import – “What if the Media Cared About Wrestlers as Much as They Do Tiger?”

The following is a post by Alfonso, Castillo, a contributor for Newsday . Castillo, a long-time wrestling fan, columnist, and journalist, often reports his opinions on the industry through his blog on the Newsday website. The blog, often filled with information and thoughts unable, and sometimes unfit for publication, is one that is highly recommended. In a recent post, Castillo examines the nature of the wrestling business, the way the media follows it, and the comparison and difference in star power between wrestlers and some “celebrities”. A good read, and a good dose of truth.

The Answer is Now Incorrect For Iverson

So Allen Iverson was passed over by the Knicks. Yes, the Knicks are terrible. And yes, the Knicks are being highly criticized for not signing Iverson to at least make things interesting for Knick fans. However, have we looked at what else that statement says? Allen Iverson was passed over by the Knicks. Have things become this bad for Iverson? The answer is yes. And this is a prime example of how fast things can go wrong for an athlete in any sport, especially the National Basketball Association. Iverson for years was the little guy that could. Dominating games, and giving up us body at the mere height of six feet. Iverson, the first overall pick in 1996 by the Philadelphia 76'ers, entertained fans by his ability, quickness, and scoring. He’s earned and MVP award, and has been to the NBA Finals with the Sixers. However, since his trade to Denver, he has become exposed as a player that was more flash than substance. Tagged as a ball hog, and a superstar that does no

Thankful For Life

On thanksgiving, it is so often noted that we should give thanks for the things that we are so blessed for having in our lives. Health, happiness, and love is usually universal in appreciation. Even money, if you qualify and hold quantity in high regards. Nonetheless, it can be agreed upon, that giving thanks and appreciation on a day like today is not just important, but necessary. After all, in our society, we have a day celebrating and honoring many various qualities, and even others celebrating various fictional characters. It is imperative that at least one is dedicated to appreciation, and is honored for its gratification and self-less motive. Thanksgiving – a day of family, friends, sports, and fellowship. A day of giving thanks for what we have in our life.  It becomes so cliché, but how many of us actually understand what that means? How many of us actually give thanks for life? Let it be known that I believe that Thanksgiving is the purest holiday of the year. It is

Taking Care of The Real People That Build These Stadiums

I understand the power of sport and business. I definitely do. However, sports are just an avenue of entertainment and enjoyment. A mere means of theatrics, thrill, and emotion that remove us from the on-going struggle of everyday life. Sports, however, are in no way an essential part of life. Even as an admitted fanatic of the New York Yankees and New York Knicks, I understand that as rich in history as the two franchises and their two home facilities in Yankee Stadium and Madison Square Garden are (or have been), they are not as important as the important things in life. They are not as important as life. With that understanding, is why I cannot understand the constant movement for the Atlantic Yards project here in Brooklyn, NY. For those who are not familiar, the Atlantic Yards project, spearheaded by Real Estate and Architect mogul, Bruce Ratner, is one that surrounds the construction of a massive new arena for the now New Jersey Nets, multiple offices, luxury condos, ap

Embellished: King of Pop’s Legacy Might Not Be Craziest Thought

Michael Jackson’s legacy might be embellished. Yeah, I said it. Is it OK to say such a thing? Is it politically correct, or even, socially acceptable to state such a sentence? “ WHAT?! No it isn’t. You are crazy !” While your obvious reaction may be just as similar, it is hard to deny that the legacy of Michael Jackson is beginning to take on a new form. A form that is slowly building from legendary authenticity into mere embellishment.  In fact, after his death, its hard to really gauge his true legacy. After the conclusion of the 2009 American Music Awards, Jackson’s legacy, and the honest reality of it was raised to newer heights. I could not help but wonder, how is it, that Jackson, who passed away right before his actual comeback, can win several awards (thus setting an AMA record) and be nominated for many more, including artist of the year?

About Destiny

I used to wonder about destiny. My Place in this world, and how it affects me.   I grind away, each day by faith. Not relying on this world. Confident in my very ways.   I’m running in space. I keep trying. No gravity. No movement. All in vain. No progress. No pace.   I often think about destiny. My place in this world. And how it affects me.   How am I passed so many times? By others so undeserving? Conscious of so many crimes. My head start is gone. A debt now growing long.   I now focus on my destiny. My place in this world. And how it affects me.   Will I reach my potential? Will I ever be satisfied? What is the Lord’s will for me?   This destiny of mine, might be deeper down inside.

The California Chronicles - 11/13/09

After a week of fun in the sun here in California, it is now time to head back to the Empire State. As stated in my last post, I did indeed have one more round of twenty four hours remaining in Huntington Beach, however, nothing came about of the time. In fact, I spent most of the day feeling a bit under the weather due to the see-saw-like weather changes from day to night out here. Days are hot. Nights are freezing. Yours truly becomes sick.  Nonetheless, before I board a plane, I figured that I could muster up some energy to wrap up this trip, and these chronicles following my trip. California has indeed been good to me. Besides the obvious attractions, sites, and places that I experienced (and listed in the last piece), this trip was one that recharged my batteries for life, enhanced my outlook on ways to live it, and reminded me of how precious it is.  Sometimes these trips remind you of how large this world is, and how many different varieties of lifestyles there are

The California Chronicles – 11/12/09

After two days of journeying all over Southern California, I am able to finally sit down, relax, and punch the keys of the past events. The past two days have been a long expedition of sight seeing and adventure. An adventure that included myself, my tag-team partner, a couple of cameras, a Ford Mustang, and a trusty navigation system, which somehow ended up with the name, “Pam” by the end of it all. 

The California Chronicles - 11/10/09

California is amazing I say that because once again today, like two days ago, yours truly received unsatisfactory news via E-mail. I know, I know, why did I check it right? Like I said, habit. And a bad one while on vacation. Nonetheless, the news slapped me in the face, and offset my mood on a great vacation. However, once again, California saves the day. Living in New York, sometimes you forget how fast, and often rushed, everything truly is. From driving, to shopping, to even enjoying a hobby, everything has to be done on time. No scratch that, everything has to be done now. I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know, however, it’s when you remove yourself out of the pressure intensified vacuum that is New York City, is when you truly realize just indeed how bad it is. How much unnecessary stress is added in the New York City standard of living.

The California Chronicles - 11/9/09

So I lied.  Yes I lied. Well sort of. Two days into this journey to the Pacific, I had a lapse and allowed reality to seep into my vacation. Yesterday I discussed attempting to clear my mind of all the things that one goes through on a daily basis. I stated that I would attempt to leave such aspects back east, and I did.  Until I checked my E-mail.  With such habit, one does these things, and well, sometimes it is necessary to follow up and stay somewhat in tune with reality wile on vacation. And with one click, I went from enjoying a great day to somewhat disappointment in a situation that fell through in reality. A situation that leaves me wondering once again of many “what if’s” for when I return three hours ahead to New York City.  However, I haven’t let that situation completely kill this time out here. In fact, in touring the wonderful city of Huntington Beach, California, I was able to learn and see things in a new way.

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Nothing Like The Holidays (2008)

What’s it about? A Puerto Rican family in the city of Chicago deals with issues that can potentially ruin their family, and make this their last Christmas together. Who is in it? Luis Guzman - Johnny John Leguizamo – Mauricio Rodriguez Debra Messing – Sarah Rodriguez Alfred Molina - Edy Rodriguez Freddy Rodriguez – Jesse Rodriguez

The California Chronicles – 11/8/09

It has been a very long time since yours truly has had an opportunity to take a vacation. After all, the year 2008 ended on a shaky note and such matters like vacations seemed cloudy, and doubtful at the least. However, since then, 2009 has been one surprise after another. And although the current year is coming to a close, it is not over. 2009 is still alive, and much like everything has been for myself this year, God’s timing was right for a vacation.  So here I am on November 8th, and on the other side of the country in Huntington Beach, California. Literally twenty four hours after celebrating the Yankees world championship in downtown Manhattan, I switch gears, pace, coasts, and mindsets.  See, with every vacation comes the obvious recharging of an individual. An opportunity to remove oneself from the stress and conflict that life brings us on a daily basis. In doing so, participation in routine activities are thus halted to assure of such a stress-free lifestyle.

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Pelham 123 (2009)

What’s it about? Armed men hijack a train within the New York City subway line with specific intentions and purposes, while putting the lives of New Yorkers in the fate of an everyday dispatcher’s hands. Who is in it? Denzel Washington – Walter Garber John Travolta – Ryder

Seven Powerful Words

View Full Album “…And The Yankees Are Champions of Baseball ” They were the words of Joe Buck so long ago. The words that defined the Yankees championship in 1996. The first one that I was able to witness. And to this day, I absolutely love hearing that call. There is just something about it as it brings an unconditional smile to my face every time. Every. Time. And in retrospect, it came during an era when Yankee fans took winning, division titles, pennants, and World Series performances for granted. However, over the past eight years, somewhere we were humbled. Brought back to reality. In fact, we witnessed the universe flipped upside down in 2004. And once again in 2007. And it seemed like forever before we could hear those words again. Who knew seven words could mean so much? On most occasions, I try to allow myself of at least a day to thoroughly understand a situation or occasion before commenting on it. It allows for more of a rational response, and less of an emot

Too Much of One Thing, A Bad Thing?

With today being election day, I found myself in a bit of a bind. Actually many binds. Binds and conflictions. As with most election days, it is important to vote for various reasons, including the right and opportunity to have your voice heard, and for the struggle and persecution for which many (minorities and women) experienced in order for us to have such an opportunity. And with this election coming off the heels of one of the most important elections in history, there is a lack of urgency that seemed to have been burned out after last year’s election. Let me first admit, I am no political expert. I am not aware of who holds all the positions, who does what, and all of the other deep on goings. Continuing, nor am I a political fanatic that is engaged with political news, rumors, lobbying, feuds, and statements that some find informational, and somewhat entertaining. However, make no mistake about it, I am aware of the topics, the general positions of representation, and like mos

Dome Pondering Import – Excerpts From “Blowing The Whistle”

The following import are excerpts that have made their way into the press from the controversial and fittingly named book, Blowing the Whistle . The book written by Tim Donaghy, former NBA referee who was convicted and sent to prison due to gambling on NBA games, shared his thoughts, and lets some secrets out in a book that is sure to make David Stern cringe. The excerpts, which are very interesting, touch base on topics such as gambling amongst the league referees, star treatment, and makeup calls.  Whether or not the book has any leverage and/or credibility in the way fans view the NBA is yet to be determined. However, one has to one what Donaghy would have to lose at this point? He is in jail. He is forever blackballed. And revenge against the the machine that is the NBA is impossible. What’s left to do but tell the truth?

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Thank You For Smoking (2006)

What’s it about? Nick Naylor, a big chief Tobacco spokesman, spins, deliberates, encourages and debates on behalf of cigarettes, while remaining a role model for his son, and learning to live with himself. Who is in it? Aaron Eckhart – Nick Naylor Katie Holmes – Heather Holloway Robert Duvall – Captain William H. Macy – Senator Ortolan Finisterre Maria Bello – Polley Bailey

The Final Crossroads For Hogan

So Hulk Hogan is back in professional wrestling. And he’s back with Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling, although his role has yet to be released. In most cases I would say that I wouldn’t be shocked by such news, given the past political decisions of the Hulkster, however, today’s news conference at Madison Square Garden caught me, much like everyone else, by surprise.  Hogan, the biggest star ever in the wrestling industry, has been in the news over the past few months due to other issues besides his career. Most of Hogan’s problems were tied to family issues that were compounded by more family problems, only to be multiplied by other family problems. He lost his house, his wife, and saw his son spend time in prison. He lost it all.  And much like I’ve stated before, some of Hogan’s problems were due to the fact he was not able to separate Terry Bolea, from Hulk Hogan ( Life of Hulkamania Brings Down Terry Bolea ). And just recently, and further stated in his new book

The True Force of Power, Sex, And Lust

So what’s the deal? Really, what is with all of the affairs and the cheating that seems to be consuming our society today? Now I am not naive, I understand a portion of the core of our culture revolves around a sexual nature. After all, sex sells right? And I understand that such behavior has been occurring since biblical times, yet, it amazes each and every time it does. Earlier this year, we were on edge when news broke regarding Coach Rick Pitino and his affair at Louisville University. Yours truly touch based briefly on that issue. ( Louisville Decision More of The Same Stuff ). Pitino’s personal life is non of our business, however, like I did then, the issue should still be today if parents would want a man with that past essentially guiding their son through some of the most important years of his life? However, let’s let that be, because now we have two other high-profile men in David Letterman and Steve Phillips, who either have admitted, or have been caught for adultery.

A Little Taste of That Missing Excitement: Free Agency Growing Again in Professional Wrestling

Nigel McGuinness is now a member of the Total Nonstop Action Wrestling Roster. Set to debut on tomorrow tonight’s edition of iMPACT , McGuinness will now go under the name of Desmond Wolfe. McGuinness err…Wolfe is one of the best kept secrets on the wrestling circuit, dominating the reigns of Ring of Honor (ROH) wrestling, and impressing international hotbed crowds such as Japan, with a flair of charisma and arrogance. Since the days of the Monday night wars, and the wrestling boom period of the late 90’s and the earlier part of this decade, wrestlers and free agency were a hot topic amongst wrestling fans. Who was going where? Who would resign? Surprise debuts, and sad farewells. The busts, the surprise signings, and all the evaluations that comes with free agency. It seems lately, things have opened up. Wrestlers have options once again (though not as equivalent as in the past), and fans are excited to see some different options. 

Dome Pondering Movie Review: The Day After Tomorrow (2004)

What’s it about? After a climatologist warns global leaders and officials of the pending dangers and damage of global warming, he must save the world from it’s sudden arrival, all the while rescuing his son from the inevitable new ice age. Who is in it? Dennis Quaid – Jack Hall Jake Gyllenhall – Sam Hall Emmy Rossum – Laura Chapman Dash Mihok – Jason Evans

Remembering A Blueprint

Professional wrestling has come a long way since it’s inception in the early 1930’s, and its pivotal evolution as hybrid-sports and entertainment in the mid 1980’s. With a collection of various talent, wrestling took off, and has yet to look back. We can name many who have paved the way and given their bodies, souls, and livelihoods for the current business we all enjoy. From Hulk Hogan to the Iron Sheik, the 80’s brought us many who were and are a blueprint in the wrestling business.  Yesterday, the wrestling world lost one of those blueprints in Captain Lou Albano. The Captain, a wrestler in his earlier days (1950’s) became famous for his legendary crazed tactics and personality, and as a manager of various Tag Team Champions. Besides his ability to manage various champions, and talent as a promo guy and “mouthpiece” as is said in the wrestling business, Captain was one of the first guys that crossed over onto the big screen, appearing in “ Girls Just Want To Have Fun

Why Did Derrion Albert Have To Die? (Part II)

On a day where Barack Obama receives the prestigious award of the Nobel Peace Prize, violence continues to show itself and it’s (unfortunately) intricate role in today’s society. In a recent interview with CNN, An-Jannette Albert, mother of Derrion Albert who was slain in Chicago, reacts to the unwarranted, unexplainable, and unbelievable death of her child. Albert’s interview, which will tug on your heart and your emotions, is highly recommended watch. Albert is filled with emotion as her response to Derrion’s death is heartbreaking, raw, and most importantly, real. Albert serves up the type of in your face truth regarding the current generation, our lack of caring, and our inability in addressing the issue. I truly believe the most honest words that Albert said were, “I’m scared.” And let’s be completely honest, a lot of us are. Without going down the road of sounding like an aging adult in this world, it is safe to say the conscious of this generation is absent, their restrai

Attempting to Script October: The 2009 MLB Playoffs

It’s that wonderful time of the year again – October. And with October comes non other than playoff baseball. And although the nation is up in mayhem over Bret Favre, the National Football League, and other things football, October is baseball. And much like years past, October is unpredictable. However, much like last year ( Attempting to Script October: The 2008 MLB Playoffs ), I will attempt to predict the happenings in this tenth month of the year, two thousand and nine. And hopefully, I’ll be more accurate than last year’s predictions. After all, it's October. It’s playoff baseball. And it cannot be scripted. Nonetheless, here goes… NLDS – St Louis Cardinals defeat Los Angeles Dodgers in Four Games This series will be decided by the Cardinals top two pitchers (and possibly best 1-2 punch in baseball) in Carpenter and Wainwright. The Dodgers will manage to sneak a win in game three in St. Louis, only to be closed out in Game 4. Manny will have an anti 2008-like

Five Keys To Knicks’ Season

It’s been a long time since yours truly has mentioned his beloved New York Knicks. After all, there hasn’t been much controversy, wrong doings, and head scratchers which spur and fuel various rants. With the new era being spearheaded by Donnie Walsh and Mike D’Antoni, much of those rants have been silenced as the organization looks forward. Nonetheless, it is a new season. A season where the culture under this new management has been in place for a year, expectations are known, and the future is one year away. Otherwise known as the Knicks “hump year” before the madness that is 2010, the Knicks must ensure that progress is being made for themselves (those with expiring contracts), for management (Walsh and D’Antoni) and the free agent class of 2010 (Lebron James and co.) However, much like the team will attempt to do this year, I also, will try (but can’t guarantee) to leave 2010 speculation for another time, if not, at the end of the season. For the NBA season opener is about o