Dome Pondering

Is it just me, or did 2013 just fly by? Maybe it's just me. Maybe. Either way, this year felt like it started, happened, and wrapped up rather quickly. Really quickly. Regardless, here we are in the final hours of the year, reflecting, remembering, honoring, awarding, and concluding everything that was 2013. In traditional fashion, let's look back on 2013 as well as look toward 2014 with the DP's biggest post of the year ( like we do every year ) - the Year in Review post. In what has become a growing tradition here in the DPYIR post, I would like to thank all of you - the readers - for visiting this little site called Dome Pondering this year. What has been the upward trend over the past two years, once again rings true as the site has grown in content, feedback (always welcomed! - see: twitter ), and overall hits and readership. Again, a major thank you.

What is it about?  A veteran neighborhood drug dealer creates a fake family of interesting people in his neighborhood to transport a huge shipment of drugs from Mexico into the U.S. Who is in it?   Jason Sudeikis - David Clark Jennifer Aniston - Rose O'Reilly Will Poulter - Kenny Rosmore Emma Roberts - Casey Mathis

3 Up 1. Touching Christmas Wish - A woman's wish back when she was diagnosed with stage four terminal cancer was granted recently in this inspirational, albeit, interesting, story.  2. Peyton Manning - Congratulations to Peyton Manning on breaking (Tom Brady's) single-season touchdown record.He now has 51 (!) TDs with two weeks still to go in the season. Amazing.  3. Vacation - I just got back from a trip to the islands to see my family. It's winter here, and it's sunshine, seas, and smiles down there. Why wouldn't this be an "Up"?  3 Down 1. IAC PR Executive - The irony of this story is too great to be true. The idea that a public relations executive could tweet something so stupid is just mind-boggling. Not only that, you just have to wonder about the logic of insulting a place and it's people before you visit said place...and it's people.  2. Moronic Father - There are lots of parents out there that think their kid is...

This is extremely late. I know. Believe me, I know. Because of my hectic work schedule, I wasn't able to listen to Eminem's latest album, "Marshall Mathers LP 2" until this past week when I had plenty of downtime on vacation. In fact, I listened to the entire album not once, but twice, from beginning to end over the last week. It's that good. And that's not counting the numerous times humming and reciting verses from the album.  Again, it's that good.  And that is saying something as lately I have truly become disinterested in rap and hip hop. Not because of age, but because the genre just feels overloaded with music that lacks soul. Music that stands for something. And that includes Jay Z's "Magna Carter - Holy Grail" (Disappointing in my opinion). And you can also put me in that group that found "Yeezus" by Kanye West to be highly mind-boggling, despite the rave reviews it's gotten from many music publications. Bu...

311. If you could have any type of fresh cut flower delivered to your home every week, what one type would you pick? Hmmm... I'll go with a sunflower. Sun flowers are just bright and energetic. Hard to not feel happy when a sunflower is in the equation.  312. If you could have refereed one sports match in history, which one would you pick? Referees have a tough gig. As someone that evaluates officials for my intramural program, I've learned the smoothest, quickest, game is always the best games to officiate. With that said, I'll go with David Cone's perfect game with the New York Yankees. I wouldn't mind umping second base and getting to literally just watch Cone deal all day.

After last week's Pondering 10 ( Things I Miss About College ), I felt it was only right to post the other side of the coin this week. After all, as I stated in that post, I truly don't miss college. I'm not one of those who are overly hung up on their college days and wish to relive it. I experience. I enjoyed. I grew up. I moved on. Ultimately, the reasons listed in this Pondering 10 list, are the sole reasons I do not miss college at all. Enjoy!

Pondering with Plumtree is a column on the popular blog, TNAsylum, that is written by yours truly. The blog is focused towards being a fan site for TNA Wrestling fans where they can get news, rumors, opinions, and any and everything else, TNA Wrestling. Known as "The Haven for TNA Wrestling Fans", I'm hoping to bring some of my thoughts to an already impressive roster of columnist for as long as the site will have me. You can read the latest column here, or in the text below.

Everyone wins. Yet, everyone loses. That's how I feel after the news came down that Robinson Cano was set to take is talents to Emerald City. I've never seen a talented player leave the Yankees in his prime. With the new initiative in place to not only get under that golden threshold of $189M, but now exercising their scar-leaving lesson learned from the Alex Rodriguez 10 year contract, it was anticipated this would occur.  After all, going into this off-season, I really never felt confident that Robinson Cano would be back in pinstripes. Never. Ever. Cano always seemed like the kind of star that didn't value the Yankee aura and legacy as much as others. And with Jay-Z looking to make a splash with his first client in a big free agent year, the chances (and needs) for a fit seemed very unlikely.

3 Up 1. The Celebration of Nelson Mandela - It's a shame to see such a great leader pass away, but at the same time, it serves as a celebration and an education lesson for those who were not aware of him and his efforts during his time on earth. 2. 2015 Ford Mustang - I'm a big fan of American muscle cars, especially the Ford Mustang. I'm pretty impressed with the new model. Good job, Ford! 3. Home Alone - The movie never gets old around the Holiday season. Always a treat to watch Kevin protect the house. 3 Down 1. Veteran and New Father Killed - I read this story and it simply pulled on my heart. It's tough reading these kind of stories about a new father and a member of our armed forces being killed any time of the year, but it is especially tough during the Holiday season. 2. Dayna Morales - The gay waitress that became an internet sensation after stating she did not receive a tip from a family because she was gay has now been outed as a f...

I learned about him at the early age of five from my mother who I could tell at the time, really held him in high regards. At that age, it was evident that he was a very important man, and what he stood for was just as important.  As I got older, six, seven, eight, nine, I came to understand the meaning of apartheid from my mother and from my grade school teachers, who also found it important to explain to us what was going on in South Africa. I remember thinking this was terrible. I remember gravitating to this cause the way I found myself completely engulfed in learning any and everything about the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  Obviously, as I got older and furthered research on my own, I came to learn about the beauty of Nelson Mandela. His leadership in unifying a nation after almost forty years of apartheid-rule, his perseverance through being unjustly jailed for twenty-seven years, and of course, his unbelievable forgiveness to those who favored apart...

Working on a college/university campus, it is pretty hard not to see your days as an undergraduate in the eyes of those who I mentor or interact with. I see so many things daily, hear students talk about "what happened last night", and help many of them discuss issues and find their way through this life, I can't help but think back on those days in which I was in their shoes. Although overall, I don't miss it (another post to come!), there are some aspects I do miss about college. This Pondering 10 are exactly those things that I miss the most about college.

What is it about?  A separated couple struggle with being friends while attempting to move on from their relationship.  Who is in it?  Rashida Jones - Celeste Andy Samberg - Jesse

3 Up Thanksgiving - A favorite holiday of mine that continues to be under attack by consumerism and sheer greed. Hopefully, you enjoyed the time with family, friends, and was able to give thanks for all that you have in your life.  CNN's Heroes - Stories of everyday people that go out of their way to help others are always inspirational. CNN does a great job with these focus pieces in their "Top 10 Heroes of the Year" highlight.  Auburn Win over Alabama - Unbelievable finish. Just a crazy win to end a storied rivalry game, in a insane atmosphere, with such drastic ramifications in College Football. But shame on those morons who are taking the game way too far .  3 Down Bronx Train Derailment - Such a sad story, especially for those (of us) that live in the New York City metro area. Just goes to show you that everyday and every moment is not guaranteed.  Black Friday Idiots - I never understand the dash for these sales. Maybe it's because ...

What is it about? The Wolfpack reunites one last time to track down Mr. Chow and put an end to a series of events that began after the famous night in Las Vegas.  Who is in it?  Bradley Cooper - Phil Ed Helms - Stu Zach Galifianakis - Alan Ken Jeong - Mr. Chow

3 Up 1. Taylor Swift - Sometimes its surprising to think Taylor Swift is only twenty-three. Yet, she continues to release hit album after hit album. Her most impressive attirbute? Her ability to handle the fame so far. Swift added more hardware to her legacy picking up the AMAs "Artist of the Year" this week.  2. Linda Tirado - I'm not one for politics that overly lean to the left, but Tirado's piece on " why poor people's choices make perfect sense " is an honest one. You may not overly agree with her reasoning and life experiences, but it is one that is respectable, honest, and transparent.  3. Matt Walsh - Another opinionated piece on the Huffington Post this week that was just a great read. Walsh dives into the growing and unadulterated greed and commercialism that has engulfed the traditions and morals of Thanksgiving. 3 Down 1. Knockout Game - This "game" is just stupid. Utterly stupid. Really, there ...

What is it about?  A career criminal uses three orphan girls to help him pull off what would be his greatest heist yet, but he finds his role as a parent profoundly changing him.  Who is in it?  Steve Carrell - Gru Jason Segal - Vector Russell Brand - Dr. Nefario

Pondering with Plumtree is a column on the popular blog, TNAsylum, that is written by yours truly. The blog is focused towards being a fan site for TNA Wrestling fans where they can get news, rumors, opinions, and any and everything else, TNA Wrestling. Known as "The Haven for TNA Wrestling Fans", I'm hoping to bring some of my thoughts to an already impressive roster of columnist for as long as the site will have me. You can read the latest column here, or in the text below.

Alex Rodriguez, one way or another is money. They guy is simply money. And that was on display again as he stormed out of his arbitration hearing in grand fashion, and of course, parlayed that into a must-see/must-hear (however you get your Mike Francesa dose, if at all) interview that pretty much is the talk of the sports world.  I say it all the time (and will again)...Alex Rodriguez is the most fascinating athlete I have ever seen in my lifetime. Ever.  His battle with Major League Baseball continues to evolve and swirl into a different kind of mess each time there is an update, and quite frankly, as we all know, this is far from over. A-Rod is essentially fighting for his baseball-loving life at this point, a sentiment he stated very clearly to Francesa. But let's be quite frank, he's fighting for the $76M-plus remaining on his mega-contract with the Yankees.  Yesterday's grandstand, as epic and dramatic as it was, was contrived, practiced and rehears...

301. If you had to name a single song or album that you most associate with a particular period of your life, what song would you choose, and from what year? This is a good one. To narrow it down is impossible, really. Not just to get around the question, but I truly believe there are many songs that take us back to periods or which we can associate a period of time in our lives. I think of Coldplay's Parachutes album and Jay-Z's Reasonable Doubt album which takes me back to freshman year of college. Listened to those two albums (they were CD's!!) on my many road trips for college baseball.  Whenever I hear "Machine Head" by Bush, I go back to each and every one of my College Debates, a song I listened to before all of them. Don't judge me. Whenever I hear anything by Diddy, Tupac, or the Notorious B.I.G., Mase, Nas, Busta Rhymes, or LL Cool J, it takes me back to Junior High School. Or how about Pearl Jam, which was played a lot at night during my ...

3 Up 1. Jennifer Lawrence - Her candid comments regarding today's culture and how " it's disgusting that young sex sells " was one that was truthful and unbelievably refreshing from a young female celebrity. Kudos to her for taking a stand and being honest on the topic.  2. Sony Playstation 4 - Available to the masses for only 24 hours, and it has already sold over 1 million consoles! That is pretty impressive.  3. J.J. Worton Catch - There have been some pretty sick football catches this season, but this one is pretty sweet. Also, it was clutch...and that always adds to the drama.  3 Down 1. Philippines Destruction - The destruction and damage done to the Philippines is heartbreaking. Here is to hoping for continued recovery.  2. Illinois Tornadoes - I can't even imagine what it is like to be in an area that had a reported 67 tornadoes touch down. The devastation is massive, and widespread. Its been tough times with natural disasters a...

What is it about?   A spin-off for the characters of Pete and Debbie from Knocked Up , the married couple are now coping with life as they are set to turn 40.  Who is in it?  Paul Rudd - Pete Leslie Mann - Debbie Maude Apatow - Sadie Iris Apatow - Charlotte

The longer this ordeal regarding the implementation of the Affordable Healthcare Act continues, the more it reveals itself to be a colossal mistake. More specifically, it becomes a huge stain on the presidency and legacy of President Obama.  After the technical difficulties the website faced, and the now low numbers enrolled in the program, it's really hard to defend the implementation of "Obamacare", or there I say, even President Obama.  DP Devotees know this, I am not one for political lines. I find the parties today to be too focused on defeating the other side rather than doing what is best for the country and it's overall well being. And I mean "well being" as a whole country, not just for a few select groups and/or demographics.

291. If you could teach one person you know a lesson about money, who would it be, and what would they learn? A few of my friends. They would learn that the latest material item doesn't necessarily have to be bought. 292. If you could be more focused in one area of your life, what would it be? As of this writing, probably time management. There are just so many things I want to do, and would like to do, and of course, need to do, that often sleep is the one task that suffers from trying to fit it all in one day. Everyday.

What is it about?  Flint, an aspiring inventor with few successful inventions, suddenly creates a machine that causes food to fall from the sky like rain. The invention helps turn around the fortunes of his hometown, but at the same time, dooms it.  Who is in it?   Phil Lord - Flint Lockwood Anna Faris - Sam Sparks

3 Up 1. Case of George Stinney - I came across this earlier this morning and it stuck with me throughout the day. I find it admirable among the many who look to clear the names of those who were wrongfully convicted, and in this case, executed, in trials under prejudice circumstances.  2. Kash Delano Register - Staying on par with the legal system, another great story of a man wrongfully convicted being released thirty four years after his sentence. These stories are always so bitter-sweet.  3. AJ Green's Catch - Hail Mary catches with game-changing ramifications are always "ups".  3 Down 1. Philippines Typhoon - Such a sad, sad, tragedy of what our neighbors in the Pacific are coping with. As of this writing, the recovering has begun with as many as 10,000 people in one city alone being feared to have died in the tragic storm.  2. President Obama Apology - The apology was nothing more than a "sorry for the inconvenience" as the Aff...

What is it about? A married couple learns about the depth of their relationship and it's dependency on a shared love for alcohol when one of them decides to get sober. Who is in it? Mary Elizabeth Winstead - Kate Hannah Aaron Paul - Charlie Hannah Nick Offerman - Dave Davies

Pondering with Plumtree is a column on the popular blog, TNAsylum, that is written by yours truly. The blog is focused towards being a fan site for TNA Wrestling fans where they can get news, rumors, opinions, and any and everything else, TNA Wrestling. Known as "The Haven for TNA Wrestling Fans", I'm hoping to bring some of my thoughts to an already impressive roster of columnist for as long as the site will have me. You can read the latest column here , or in the text below.

Courtesy: nyredbulls.com I don't believe in curses. I don't. But I'd be lying if I told you that I sometimes don't feel as if the sports teams I root for aren't jinxed, cursed, or just filled with bad luck. To be honest, If it weren't for my New York Yankees roots and fan hood since childhood, I'd be a completely miserable sports fan having to invest the rest of passion into my beloved New York Knicks, New York Jets, and New York Red Bulls every year.  And yes, for those doing the math in their head, it's pretty simple, I haven't seen any of the latter win a championship in my lifetime.

280. If you could have been the producer of any single television show or series, which one would you pick? I would say The Cosby Show as it is my favorite television show of all-time. However, I'll select my second favorite television show (not counting Monday Night Raw ), in Friday Night Lights . I would have loved to work on that project.  281. If you could own any single newspaper in the world, which one would you pick? Not The New York Post, that's for sure. Although, does anyone buy newspapers anymore? It is a dying business. I'm going to go with a blog, and I'll go with the Huffington Post. 

What is it about?  The true story of a group of bodybuilders, who kidnap and extort their way to wealth, get caught up in a myriad of situations which not only result in their capture, but reveals their insane stupidity.  Who is in it?  Mark Wahlberg - Daniel Lugo Dwayne Johnson - Paul Doyle Anthony Mackie - Adrian Doorbal Tony Shalhoub - Victor Kershaw

3 Up 1. New York City Marathon - After Hurricane suspending last year's race and the tragedy that was the Boston Marathon bombing, today's NYC marathon - the largest of it's kind at over 55,000 - was a huge success in helping many moving forward.  2. Boston Red Sox - I hate to say it, but the Red Sox deserved their title win this year. Also, what the win meant to the city following the attacks of the Boston Marathon bombings can't be measured. 3. Nick Foles - Not exactly the quarterback you expect to be on the "Up" list, but throwing seven touchdowns in one game will definitely get you there.  3 Down 1. LAX Shooting - Mass shootings continue to plague this country, and it's even more alarming how quickly we've dropped the once hot-button issue of gun-control and gun policies in our country.  2. Insensitive (Idiotic) Halloween Costumes - Just when I thought this story should be on this list, a moronic woman figured it would be ...

Usually when I'm flustered or confused, it is here on this very blog in which I receive my best therapy. There aren't many things in life that I do overly well or I would claim to be my "thing", but punching the keys is that one thing I could say I do "alright" in. Words come very easy to me when I sit in front of a blank screen with a blinking cursor.  This week has been a tough one. Not because I didn't have the means or inspiration to write. Nor did I suffer from sort of periodical writers block, which happens to the best of us. No, this week I've unfortunately been going through a period where mental and in someways, spiritual fatigue as engulfed me. Not in a tiring way, but in a way of simply having a collapse of what I thought I knew. About this world. about life. About everything.  We all go through it from time to time. Usually, every so often something like this occurs, whether it's an aging milestone, a tragic happening, a life...

The WWE likes to proudly proclaim John Cena as the "most polarizing" superstar to ever grace its company. And really, it's hard to argue with that statement as Cena evokes emotion from many, actually all, wrestling fans. Either you cheer for him, or you undoubtedly roll your eyes at every moment he's on your television screen.  It's the unique reaction rarely seen in pro wrestling where a wrestler is cheered by half the crowd, and ultimately jeered  just as loudly by the opposing half. It's the type of intriguing and perplexing reaction Bret Hart received in the late 90's when he was ultimately booed in the United States, but suddenly became a huge babyface outside of these great borders.  Cena evokes emotion, and it's a quality that pro wrestling thrives on. It's what keeps Cena as the company's...heck, the industry's top guy. Yet, still why the hate for a leading talent in such a competitive industry?

In the midst of an awesome MLB Playoffs, an even better World Series, and the inability to cope with the fact that my main guy, Mariano Rivera, is no longer an active athlete, the NBA silently crept up on me this Fall. Like a ninja, NBA opening night is here. Boom! And of course, that means, my beloved New York Knicks are set to begin their 2013-2014 campaign towards what will hopefully be an even better year than last.  As is the case with most years, I very much disagree with the experts who have picked the Knicks season to include doom and gloom, as they usually do. I completely understand that it is hard for me to objectively view my guys in orange and blue sometimes, but I thoroughly do not understand how so many people have us projected to do so terribly after a 52-win season.

3 Up 1. Calvin Johnson - "Mega-tron" makes the cut again this week after lighting up the Cowboys with 14 catches for 329 receiving yards. The dude is a monster. 2. World Series Umpiring Crew - From getting together in Game 1 to get a first inning call correct to Game 3's dramatic ending that required a gutsy (but once again, correct) call, this umpiring crew has done a fantastic job so far in officiating the game's biggest stage. 3. (Pink) White House - I thought this was super cool in honor of national breast cancer awareness month. 3 Down 1. 100K to Look Like Beiber - I'm sorry, anyone that spends that much money to look like someone like Justin Beiber of all people, definitely deserves at least one spot as the top "down" of the week. 2. Chris Brown - Arrested again, this time for felony assault. Why do these celebrities receive so many chances? 3. Halloween Costume of Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman - Who really th...

One of the good aspects about having a blog and being truthful and honest about it, is the hindsight thought process it provides. DP devotees already know how much I love my New York Knicks, and how excited I was about their new jerseys last year. It was a new look that was desperately needed ( DP Review On Knicks New Uniforms ).  In reviewing those jerseys last year, I had the following comments in regards to then-rumors regarding the addition of an alternative orange jersey for the Knicks and overall NBA changes to the Christmas Day special jerseys:  "As long as we do not add an "alternative jersey" (I read rumors of an orange one - woof!) (and the league-wide Spanish jerseys are fine). And please, please - PLEASE - let's finally do away with the awful green jerseys we feel the need to wear on Christmas and St. Patrick's day! Pretty please!"

Pondering with Plumtree is a column on the popular blog, TNAsylum, that is written by yours truly. The blog is focused towards being a fan site for TNA Wrestling fans where they can get news, rumors, opinions, and any and everything else, TNA Wrestling. Known as "The Haven for TNA Wrestling Fans", I'm hoping to bring some of my thoughts to an already impressive roster of columnist for as long as the site will have me. You can read the latest column here , or in the text below.

What is it about?  A woman's world unravels (and becomes exposed) when a prescription drug prescribed by her psyciatrist has revealing side effects.  Who is in it? Rooney Mara - Emily taylor Jude Law - Dr. Jonathan Banks Catherine Zeta Jones - Dr. Victoria Seibert Channing Tatum - Martin Taylor

What is it about? A polio survivor who survives on an iron lung looks to learn about sex by losing his virginity through a sex surrogate with the help of his caretakers, therapists, and priest.  Who is in it?   John Hawkes - Mark O'Brien Helen Hunt - Cheryl

Courtesy: impactwrestling.com Bound For Glory 2013 is done and in the books. And for a company that is in transition, a transition that is really up in the air with all of the rumors and speculation, Bound For Glory really shed some light on those "changes" that are true. Over the past two years, the posts here on the DP following Bound For Glory have been optomistic and have toed the the proverbial "change" line. Two years ago, we saw a company relying on wrestling's past and the history made by others as part of their identity and product ( Bound For Glory is Bound By the Past ). Last year showed promise, and exemplified what seemed like a focus-needle beginning to shift away from the dark cloud that hung over the 2011 BFG ( Bound For Glory 2012 is Change New Creative Envisioned ).  Tonight, Bound For Glory really left me not just entertained and thoroughly excited (of course because my guy, AJ Styles has the strap again), but truly intrigued and ...

3 Up 1. Michael Wacha and Shane Victorino - Both came up big this week in series-clinching games for their respective teams. Wacha, out-dueling the great Clayton Kershaw, and Victorino with a game-winning grand slam. Both teams are set to face off against one another in this year's World Series.  2. Calvin Johnson - His catch today is just insane. Megatron is a beast. 3. Indianapolis, Indiana - Rounding out the sports-themed "Ups" this week is the ovation that Indy gave to Peyton Manning. Manning, who gave so much to the franchise, returned to a heroes welcome. A return that was fitting, and one that many other fanbases could learn from. 3 Down 1. 30M Slaves Worldwide - The report that there is (still!) almost thirty million people world wide who are slaves is alarming and disheartening. Sometimes we connect slavery to the distant pass, but in reality, it is still something still relevant in our world.  2. Shoplifter Caught with Dead Baby -...

Tonight, I realized that something used to be a big fear of mine, something that truly bugged me to no end, no longer has that stronghold on me anymore. Not because I am no longer afraid of it or that it no longer bothers me, but because it's happened so often, I'm becoming desensitized to it.  For DP devotees, you know exactly what I am talking about. For those who are new to these parts called Dome Pondering, all you have to do is look no further than the American League representative in the World Series. Yes, the Boston Red Sox.  Back in 2007, I touched base on this with a post describing the Red Sox second World Series victory in four years as " The Fear of No Fear ".

271. If you were to be a news correspondent posted to any foreign country, where would you like to go? Probably somewhere relaxing, tropical, friendly, and where nothing catastrophic ever happens. Caribbean. More specifically, St. Croix.  272. If you had to choose a time in history when overall things were worse than any single time, when would you say it was? The time of slavery in this country. Even the things we thought were good, weren't as best as they could be. Diversity makes everything better.

This post might seem a bit random. This is your warning, OK? However, despite my eclectic choice of timing and commenting, the recent government shut down and New York City mayoral race has had me in a mode of dissecting a few things regarding politics, laws, society, and overall, what needs to be fixed in our country.  After all, this time of the year can and will do that to someone - anyone. Naturally, it is election season, and of course, our government is currently in the worst of all positions attempting to agree on factors regarding our future national deficit.  As newscasts, politicians, and other television pundits squabble back and forth about the national debt and "Obamacare", and local representatives spew the the typical pointers and cover the same generic topics to help get them elected, I find myself this election season in a mode of being thoroughly disappointed.

3 Up  1. MLB LCS Pitching - Even without my beloved Yankees, I knew the MLB playoffs would be spectacular this year. So far, it has been. However, the pitching performances we have seen in both League Championship series have been ultra phenomenal. It's been must see television.  2. Bob Costas - I don't always agree with Costas who at times seems a bit outdated on some of his takes when it comes to sports, especially baseball. However, his recent words regarding the controversy surrounding the "Redskins" name was well done. Also, kudos to him for taking a stand on an issue many reporters in the sport's field have been shying away from.  3. Boston Sports - As a native New Yorker this hurts me to place at number three, but on a day that the Patriots come back to win on a beautiful pass by Tom Brady and the Red Sox score five runs in two innings that included a dramatic David Ortiz grand slam home run, it deserves the spot. All of New England must be sl...

Usually, I don't get into the affairs of other teams and the issues their fan bases face. For the most part, the teams whom I root for and emotionally throw myself into have enough conflicts, dilemmas, and controversy for me to deal with. All you have to do is take a look at the amount of vents and posts yours truly has in the archives of this very blog during those "Isiah" years for my New York Knicks.  Yet, as a New York Jets fan who continuously hopes each year is the year, or heck, even just a decent year, it bothers me to hear Giants fans lately on the state of their New York Football Giants team, more specifically, Eli Manning.

Where are you perfection? I search for you, at ever corner of my life, at every end road and every fork, for a sense of purpose and direction. Where are you perfection? I seek you, in pursuit of every goal, of every task, in every desire and aspiration, as the exclamation point for my happiness.

261. If you could serve in one capacity in the military (in which you haven't already served), what would you want to do? Well, obviously, I've never served in the military. However, I would want to do something close to my career now, and that is work in logistics. Whether it is scheduling, planning, or project management, I'd love to serve my country by using my experience and attributes towards those aspects.  262. If you could eliminate forevermore one cause of death on earth, what would it be? Hunger. That's such a brutal way to die. Especially, when the resources are there throughout the world unlike other terrible diseases or ailments.

It is no secret that yours truly has never been a big fan of Hulk Hogan. I don't have any personal grudge against him, I was just never that wrestling fan that went crazy over him. In fact, growing up, I was more of a "Macho Man" Randy Savage guy. So yes, I was never a "Hulkamaniac".  Nonetheless, I do respect Hulk Hogan, and yes, even Terry Bolea. He is the "Babe Ruth" of pro wrestling, an industry I very much enjoy. However, despite my choice of not being a fan, I've always felt Hulk Hogan has done the industry a disservice by never passing the torch to another wrestler.  Hogan has stated many times that he is grateful for what Andre The Giant did for him at Wrestlemania III in one of wrestling's biggest and brightest moments in pro wrestling history, when Hogan slammed Andre - a feat never done before then.

3 Up 1. Capture of Al Qaeda Operative - The more of these guys we get before they can do something horrific, the better. 2. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - The atmosphere at PNC park this past week for Pirates games have been amazing! Absolutely, amazing. The cat-call of "Cue-to, Cue-to, Cue-to" at Johnny Cueto, rattled the Reds pitcher and helped the Pirates punch their ticket to the NLDS. 3. President Obama - Sure, the government shut down hasn't earned the President any credit this week, but his stand on the issue regarding the "Redskins" name is admirable. How anyone, regardless if you are a football fan, can justify that name is beyond me. 3 Down 1. Government Shut Down - Whatever your political beliefs are, and wherever you land on the issue of Obamacare, the idea that our government would just shutdown is ridiculous. Especially, when they still get paid for not doing what they should be doing - representing the American people. 2. Bi...

Pondering with Plumtree is a column on the popular blog, TNAsylum, that is written by yours truly. The blog is focused towards being a fan site for TNA Wrestling fans where they can get news, rumors, opinions, and any and everything else, TNA Wrestling. Known as "The Haven for TNA Wrestling Fans", I'm hoping to bring some of my thoughts to an already impressive roster of columnist for as long as the site will have me. You can read the latest column here , or in the text below.

What is it about? The decade long hunt for Osama Bin Laden following the September 11th, 2001 attacks. Who is in it? Jessica Chastain - Maya Jason Clarke - Dan Kyle Chandler - Joseph Bradley Chris Pratt - Justin

The supermarket experience is one that is unique. Often times, it is a hub of various people and various ways that can cause several people to grow annoyed and upset. There is just something about the grocery story or supermarket, or just purchasing food items in general that make people on edge. In my experience, there are several reasons that makes the supermarket-experience that much more annoying than it needs to be and it is due to several people who engage in certain annoying things. With that said, the following Pondering 10 are the most annoying people you will find at your supermarket.

This past week was my second wedding anniversary. DP devotees are familiar with the " Unity Road Writings " and the importance of the date, September 24th. It's actually quite shocking how fast two years have crept up on the tag team partner and I. It is so often said in terms of the linear measurement that is time, but it really does feel like yesterday was 9.24. The 9.24.  Yet, here we are, two years removed. Two years growing. Two years stronger.  And even as the second calendar year passes since we exchanged "I do's", nothing has given me more faith in the strength, peculiarity, and awesomeness that is our marriage moreso than this very anniversary. An anniversary in which yours truly actually did not see his wife.  Wait. What?

3 Up 1. Mariano Rivera - Yeah, you just knew this would top the list. Thursday night was awesome, at the same time, just super sad. It's going to be weird not having #42 out of the bullpen next year. It won't truly settle in until game #1 in 2014. 2. Likeable Job - I had a pretty hectic week working almost 80 hours this week. Needless to say, this is a plus because when you enjoy what you do for a living, it makes it that much easier to invest and immerse yourself into your work. 3. Andy Pettitte - Complete game win in Houston, Texas. You couldn't have scripted a better ending to a career of one of the best big-game pitchers of this generation. 3 Down 1. Murdered Pastor - The horrific thought of violence now entering a place of worship just proves how unsafe our world has become. 2. Nigeria Mass Shooting - For the second week in a row, mass shootings fill the "down" section as several college students in Nigeria were killed in the middle...

251. If you were to invent an award to give to one commercial company, which one would you award, and for what?  As of this moment, I would give an "Employee Empowerment" award to Google. No not because they host this very blog, but because of how they treat and take care of their employees. I've had the opportunity in my career to work with those who are employed by Google and all of the rumors and hearsay is true - they do have fun and are super productive! Kudos to Google on finding the balance of employee happiness, innovation, and productivity. 252. If you could resolve any single dispute, anywhere in the world, what would you solve? I would solve race relations here in America. Since the slave trade, our country has been struggling to see one another beyond the color of our skin and the different ways we look.

3 Up 1. Mariano Rivera - The greatest closer of all-time and my favorite athlete of all-time had his day today - Mariano Rivera Day. In such class, he had his number retired, gave a classy speech, and proceeded to do what he does best, give the Yankees a chance to win the ballgame with a flawless effort. Still can't believe it will be all over soon. 2. Phil Knight - Often wealthy people get a bad wrap for not doing enough with their money and fame to help others. Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, obviously is not one of those people as him and his wife pledge to match if $500 million is raised for cancer research. He's previously given $100 million already for research. Pretty awesome.  3. Andy Pettitte - Another Yankee great retiring. Andy dazzled in a vintage Pettitte-performance by going into the eighth inning. As I stated the first time he retired, I'm going to miss Pettitte's intensity, and of course that awesome stare over the tip of his glove ( Losin...

Pondering with Plumtree is a column on the popular blog, TNAsylum, that is written by yours truly. The blog is focused towards being a fan site for TNA Wrestling fans where they can get news, rumors, opinions, and any and everything else, TNA Wrestling. Known as "The Haven for TNA Wrestling Fans", I'm hoping to bring some of my thoughts to an already impressive roster of columnist for as long as the site will have me. You can read the latest column here, or in the text below.

After listing my favorite play-by-play announcers in a Pondering 10 back in 2011 ( All-Time Play-By-Play Announcers ), I figured that I would complete the tandem in the booth with my favorite color commentators. Some of the best guys are the one's who can add life to the usual happenings whether it be through in-depth analysis, teaching, story-telling, or even humor. Color commentators can even at times make the broadcast. With that said, here are my favorite all-time color commentators.

Every Yankees fan, at least the real ones over the age of 25, should remember the name Kevin Maas. If you aren't familiar, Maas was once touted as the next big prospect for the Yankees during some lean years when talent - any type of talent - was very much needed.  After a lot of hype and tons of expectations, Maas never amounted to much. And the Yankees can now hide the disappointment of Maas behind the once-in-a-lifetime occurrence of a couple of home grown studs that came through the system and helped them build a dynasty. Mariano Rivera. Derek Jeter. Andy Pettitte. Bernie Williams. Jorge Posada.  With those names now either enjoying retirement or close to having the sun setting on their careers, the apparent void (in terms of youth and future) in many areas on the Yankee roster depth chart is glaring. Where are the next batch of Yankees to carry the torch going forward?

What is it about? As the civil war takes its toll on the union, President Lincoln struggles with balancing the violence taking place, the chance at peace, and the overall struggle to emancipate slaves. Who is in it? Daniel Day-Lewis - Abraham Lincoln Sally Field - Mary Todd Lincoln David Straitharin - William Seward Joseph Gordon-Levitt - Robert Lincoln

241. If you could have your spouse say one thing about you to friends, what would you want him or her to say? "He's just awesome." 242. If you spoke English with a foreign accent, which would you want it to be? Oh this might be the easiest question of them all...a British accent. 243. If you could guarantee the happiness of any single person in the world because they most deserve it, who would it be? I have way too many friends who are single, it could be any one of them.

3 Up 1. Reminder of Birmingham Church Bombing - On the anniversary of the notorious Birmingham Church Bombing from 1963, it is a clear reminder of how far we've come in race relations in this country, even during recent times where those relations seem to have been tested or have taken a step backward. 2. Jim Ross - The best play-by-play announcer in pro wrestling (in my opinion) officially retired from the WWE this week. One of the greats whose voice will be missed. 3. The Fox - I completely missed this viral video until the tag team partner showed this to me. She promised me it was worth it, and quite frankly it was. I'm sure you've seen it by now (Currently over 30 million views on YouTube), but if you haven't, give it a watch. Trust me, you'll laugh. 3 Down 1.  Seaside Heights Fire - It's heartbreaking to see thirty-two businesses and a community that rebuilt itself in time for the summer season following Hurricane Sandy now destroyed ...