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Dome Pondering - 2015 Year in Review

So 2015 is all over, huh? Yup, cue up Mike Goldberg , play-by-play announcer from the UFC, to put a bow on this one! Indeed, 2015 has been a year that has been beat up, dragged around, and is finally being knocked out. And of course, we say it every year, it all just felt like such a big blur.  But it's Dome Pondering Year in Review time, the biggest post of this very small, little, tiny, itsy-bitsy, minuscule particle of the internet. But regardless of how small, we have traditions around here, and we do 'em big! #DPYIR time, bay bay!  However, before we dive in on closing 2015, as always, I would like to thank all of you, the readers, visitors, and the passerby folks that check in and check out the DP. I continue to enjoy the growth in readership of this blog, and of course, the countless interaction over in Twitterland ( @DomePondering ) on various topics from politics and sports, to music and pro wrestling.

The Pondering 10 - Most Fascinating Things of 2015

Here we are, on the verge of closing out another calendar year. As always, sure to lookout for the the traditional and of course, the biggest post of the year on the DP - The Year in Review. However, as I prepared "the big post" if you will, I figured there was a dynamic in covering the year that I was not able to do there, so I decided to relay that into a P10 post. With that said, here is the latest Pondering 10 - the most fascinating things (for me) from 2015.

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 12/20/15

3 Up 1. Zaevion Dobson - The High School football star in Tennessee was killed as he shielded three other girls from the gunfire of gang members. And while it's a shame that he died, and we have every reason to be outraged by the constant violence, I'll focus on remembering and honoring Dobson as a hero.  2. Cam Newton - Besides being really good at football these days, how can you not like Cam Newton? The guy plays the game with a certain enjoyment, and you have to love him giving away footballs to kids after every score! Plus, his performance this week against the Giants was outstanding. 3. Diving Between Continents - This story is amazing, even more so are the absolutely stunning visuals of a diver who has been diving in an an area in Iceland that allows him to touch both North America and Europe. Check it out!  3 Down 1. Virginia School District - I cannot believe how far we are going with the phobia on Islam as an entire school district was shut down...

Dome Pondering Movie Review: People Places Things (2015)

What is it about? After his wife left him, Will learns to balance taking care of his daughters, finding new love, and letting go of the woman he once loved.  Who is in it?  Jermaine Clement - Will Henry Stephanie Alynne - Charlie Regina Hall - Diane Jessica Williams - Kat

Thoughts and Takeways From Fifth Republican Presidential Debate

My goodness! I'm not sure if I even want to dive into this one. In what I expected to be a new and reformed debated for candidates and CNN alike, pretty much turned into the same ole, same ole. The very same in what we have been receiving throughout these debates. Now as a huge debate maniac, nerd, dork, freak - pick your insulting description - I told myself to let a lot of the format issues plaguing these highly anticipated (and oh yeah, very important!) debates go. I was trying to look past it. From the super ridiculous questions, the ineffective moderators, the poor etiquette, the lack of flow, or the over-abundance of these channels to fit as many of their talking heads into the event, some could say these debates do more harm than good for the candidates, and most importantly, the voters. You know, us. Americans.

Dome Pondering Movie Review: 6 Years (2015)

What is it about?  A couple dating for six years and headed into their last years of college now deal with their unraveling relationship as unexpected events disrupt what they always had planned and imagined.  Who is in it?  Taissa Farmiga - Melanie Clark Ben Rosenfield - Dan Mercer

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Fantastic Four (2015)

What is it about?   Four very intelligent scientists discover the way to another dimension and decide to follow through on their own discovery instead of handing it off to another explorer. They end up receiving physical changes and powers in which they must learn to harness in order to save earth from one of their own who is looking to destroy it.  Who is in it? Miles Teller - Reed Richards Michael B. Jordan - Johnny Storm Kate Mara - Sue Storm

Pondering Picture #62

Courtesy of ICY and SOT Here is a picture of some street art from ICY and SOT that simply connects with the feelings following all of these mass shootings, back-and-forth bantering on gun control, and of course, terrorism.  Just really sick of it. All of it. 

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 12/6/15

3 Up 1. Shannon Johnson - "I got you". It's become a popular phrase after the story of Mr. Johnson saving Denise Peraza during the shootings in San Bernardino and ought to be known. Despite a horrific incident, Mr. Johnson gets the nod as the top "up" this week.  2. Obama's Muslim Call - I am of the belief that not all Muslims are indeed terrorists. There are plenty of wonderful, kind Muslims I know and have come across in my life. However, President Obama's call for the Muslim community to stand up against ISIS is needed. Where are they? The world needs to see that there is a difference. 3. Luke Walton - Despite not getting any official wins throughout this historic streak (which is downright awful by the NBA - just ridiculous!), much credit goes to Coach Luke Walton of the Golden State Warriors for keeping these fellas motivated on this run.  3 Down 1. San Bernardino - Obvious, right? I'm actually so sick and tired of discuss...

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Southpaw (2015)

What is it about?  A successful boxer who made it from the foster system must pull his life together after losing his wife in an accident and his daughter to Child Protective Services.  Who is in it?  Jake Gyllenhaal - Billy Hope Rachel McAdams - Maureen Hope Forest Whitaker - Tick Wills

Off the Post and So Close - Closing Thoughts on 2015 Red Bulls Season

Off the post. Off the freakin post.  That's really all I can muster up after the New York Red Bulls fall short yet again after a splendid season that included the second Supporters Shield. Despite digging ourselves in a huge hole in Columbus by giving up a goal in the first nine seconds of the first leg, another in the final seconds, and never being able to put up the all-important road goal, I didn't lose hope. Even until the very end.  I guess that's why this loss hurts so much.  After a season that began with town meetings and a fanbase thoroughly upset with the firing of Mike Petke (as was I) things did not look good. There was NYCFC entering hte market, and of course the big question of "how good are we WITHOUT Thierry Henry?" I will openly admit, I was wrong about Ali Curtis and Jesse Marsch. They had a vision, a philosophy, a style of play, and stood behind it. And as we now see, it worked. Big time.

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 11/29/15

3 Up 1. Dehumanizing Athletes - I'm not one to play daily fantasy sports, or one who really cares to do so. If you do, that's great. More power to you. However, this piece in the New York Times was a great read on how many like myself feel about it. As a former athlete, I thoroughly agree.  2. Thanksgiving - Despite the origin of the holiday, Thanksgiving is a great time to get together with loved ones and family to spend some much needed time to kick off the Holiday season. And of course, the food is always so good.  3. Kobe Bryant Retirement - Announced tonight on the Players Tribune (which is a fantastic website by the way), The Black Mamba announced that this season will be his last. A great from-the-heart write-up, and a much needed announcement so we can acknowledge one of the best athletes of this generation on his way out of the game.  3 Down 1. Boko Hiram - I'm not sure why the media is not discussing the threat of Boko Hiram in Africa. No...

The Pondering 10 - Favorite Workouts

We all have our favorite ways to get exercise when it comes to that super interesting place called the gym. For me, the gym is a fascinating place to people watch, but most importantly, there are tons of options (obviously!) there to improve your fitness, and to improve your overall wellness. With that said, I'm dishing out a rather simple (and the latest) Pondering 10 list - My Favorite Workouts at the gym. Enjoy! 

Pondering with Plumtree - Moving On and Moving Forward

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.

Dome Pondering Movie Review: About Alex (2014)

What is it about?  A group of college friends reunite for a weekend when one of them attempts to commit suicide. What ends up happening are old truths, revealed emotional baggage, and breakthroughs that needed to happen for each to continue on in life.  Who is in it?   Nate Parker - Ben Maggie Grace - Siri Max Greenfield - Josh Aubrey Plaza - Sarah

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 11/22/15

3 Up 1. Golden State Warriors - One would think there would be a hangover from winning the championship last year, right? Nope. These fellas, led by Steph Curry, have been destroying everyone on their way to a record tying 15-0 start. The Warriors play the Lakers tomorrow night, and most likely will stand alone for best start in NBA history.  2. Racial Discussions - I spoke briefly about the racial discussion we had at the University I work at ( as well as my opinions ), and it seems the same is happening not only across the country on college campuses, but in other platforms and venues as well. I just hope the discussions are productive and lead to better understanding and living for all, not just one group.  3. Kristaps Porzingis - My main man, Kristaps! It's still early, but it is so refreshing and exciting for us Knicks fans to have a rookie who seems promising and legit. Oh yeah, by the way, the team is playing well too!  3 Down 1. Terrorism - Ug...

Thoughts on Race and Inclusive Awareness on College Campuses

Today, I stood outside of my office inside of the campus gymnasium in which I work and listened for two and half hours of students voicing their demands, stories, and concerns regarding the lack of diversity and inclusivity on campus. In the wake of the issues facing Missouri, Yale, Ithaca, Claremont McKenna, and various other campuses nationwide in which racial unrest has popped up, the University in which I work for decided to host an open forum to begin the dialogue to hopefully begin motions to solve issues on our campus, and of course to get out in front of what has been going on elsewhere in the nation.  Person after person, student after student, they all spoke about experiences and episodes in which they have been subjects of racial insensitivity, as well as the glaring lack of inclusivity on the campus. The statements were loud, they were direct, and I have to give it to these young adults, they were very poignant in calling out executives, faculty and the overall dis...

Reactions to Rousey v. Holm from UFC 193 - Holm's Time Helps Sport

Is it possible to be shocked even when you expected the outcome? That's exactly how I felt this past Saturday night after watching Ronda Rousey receive that devastating kick to the jaw that dropped her heavily, taking her invincibility and reputation with it. I am not looking for praise or attempting to humble-brag, but I did see Holly Holm walking away as the one to take down Rousey. Yes, for you pro wrestling fans, cue your inner Paul Heyman - the one in Rousey's 9-1 .  Holm's background of being a very skilled boxer and kickboxer lend to the strengths of what many believed was the way to beat Rousey. It reminds me of the years when boxing was fun (remember those?) and the draw that Tyson was. The game plan was the same - control the pace and the fight. Holm did both, obviously frustrating and at one point, infuriating Rousey.

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 11/15/15

3 Up 1. Paris Stadium Security Guard - Not much has been revealed, and we don't even know if this security guard is still alive, but whomever this person is/was, they helped save a lot of lives. LOTS! Just by doing their job well and finding the vest of the bomber, they prevented what could have been a much larger catastrophe. Too often we mock security guards, especially those who approach their jobs with lackadaisical effort. This person is a hero. A huge, huge, big time hero.  2. Facebook - I'm not a huge fan of Facebook as I find Twitter and Instagram to be more interesting. That's just me. However, Facebook's "Safe alert" feature is a new concept that is just brilliant. Knowing a former student who worked for me and who now lives in Paris, it was nice to see her check in as "safe" in the midst of the chaos. I can't even imagine how convenient it was for those with closer friends and family.  3. Holly Holm - As gloomy as the week...

Pondering Picture #61

Courtesy: Jean Jullien #PrayforParis Don't just say or type it, please PRAY for Paris.

All In On Porzingis

Okay, I am officially throwing this out there - I am a big fan of Kristaps Porzingis. Huuuuge fan.  I'm not sure what it is, but Porzingis, thus far, seems like exactly the type of guy New York Knicks fans deserve after years of suffering. And to be quite frank, I'm just a fan of everything that is Porzinigis. I'm all about his potential. I'm all about his personality. I'm all about him embracing and wanting to play and win in this wonderful city of New York.  Was it love at first sight? Possibly. On draft night when the typical "look-at-me-clowns" booed and jeered him, Porzingis handled it perfectly. Acknowledging that he will turn all of the criticism into applause. I loved how silly it all was.  Especially, the evidence of how quick we are to proclaim an athlete a bust. Or the stupid stereotypes we have for European ballers. He's either Dirk Nowitzki or Andrea Bargnani. And of course, the typical American-bias used when we assume g...

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Me and Earl and the Dying Girl (2015)

What is it about? A teenager who spent most of his high school career trying to play it safe by not befriending anyone to have anyone hate him, has his outlook changed forever after befriending a classmate who has just been diagnosed with cancer.  Who is in it?   Thomas Mann - Greg RJ Cyler - Earl Olivia Cooke - Rachel

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 11/8/15

3 Up 1. Adele - Hello....I'm Sorrrrrry! Gosh, Adele is such a throwback to when artists made music that truly inspired, and you know, took time to make their albums. Quality over quantity. Imagine that? Her first single was released this week and I'm already awaiting the album. I just can't get the single out of her head.  2. Protests of and through Football - If you read this blog, you know I'm not a big football fan. In fact,  as I get older, the more I move away from the game. I actually find the importance we place on the game (and pardons given) in this country to be horrifying. Yet, kudos to Wendi Nix who poignantly made comments in regards to the NFL and Greg Hardy , as well as the University of Missouri football players who are protesting by not playing until the school President is removed for his inaction against racism on campus.  3. MLS Playoffs - How awesome hve the MLS playoffs been this weekend? Especially that insane Seattle Sounders/FC Dal...

Movember 2015

I'm never really one to dabble into trends and other "everyone is doing it" movements. Especially, one that has a hashtag tied to it. After all, doesn't everything - anything - need a hashtag to somehow advocate and legitimize it's existence? Regardless, after reading the story in which D'Angelo Williams was denied the opportunity by the NFL to wear pink all year in support of the fight against cancer, a cause so personal to him due to losing four family members to cancer, it made wonder, how personal are some of these causes to those who within the cause, businesses and to others?  Clearly, the NFL only participates in October's pink awareness because it looks good to the public. And there are so many who do it also because of the trendy nature of the time. Pink suddenly is cool to everyone. Again, good cause, great awareness, but how personal is it? 

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Spy (2015)

What is it about?   A former spy tied to desk duties volunteers to go undercover by infiltrating the world's largest arms dealer and to avenge the "death" of her field agent.  Who is in it?  Melissa McCarthy - Susan Cooper Jude Law - Bradley Fine Jason Statham - Rick Ford

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 11/1/15

3 Up 1. Kansas City Royals - Wow. How resilient is and was this team in the postseason? When you think their done, they find a way, and that is why they are World Series champions! Kudos to the Royals and of course, the city of Kansas City, who have waited 30 years for this to happen.  2. New York City Marathon Winners - I like working out, but running 26.2 miles of New York City street just sounds like torture. People like Stanley Biwott and Mary Keitany make marathons look easy. Congratulations to both!  3. Senator Ted Cruz - Cruz was the first debater to call out the atrocious host that was CNBC in the third national GOP debate. Kudos to Cruz for being honest and saying what needed to be said midway through the event.  3 Down 1. Officer Ben Fields - I watched this video and was sick to my stomach. I'm sorry, there is no need to slam a child like that for simply not abiding to cell phone rules. I'm not sure if race is the sole reason here, but it s...

Thoughts and Takeaways From Third Republican Presidential Debate

OMG. Yes, It's not often I use silly acronyms that entered the language through our addictive text communication, but that's the only way to describe what happened this past Wednesday in Colorado.  Maybe perhaps, SMH is another.  Regardless, after finally getting around to a much anticipated third round of a highly charged GOP race for the United States Presidency, I sat there watching a debate that was mess. CNBC and anyone who attempted to show their face and play "moderator" in this one, walked away as the biggest loser. Well of course, other than the American people who got nothing out of this debate other than knowing that CNBC is awful.  Nonetheless, let's dive into the weirdest, and probably worst debate I've seen - ever:

Rock Solid

Rock Solid I can doubt, and I will deny.  Yet, the evidence is right in front of my eyes.  I once believed I had nothing to offer - to lead, to relate, to understand.  Rarely close friends, barely any family.  How does one learn to feel? To relate? To touch? To lead?  "I'm really, really not that strong!"  But God must think I am.  I reach out, and wonder how, or why?  Yet, the answer lies within my heart.  It's been there all along.  I'm not strong. I'm a rock.  There for others who had never doubted at all. 

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 10/25/15

3 Up 1. Brave Victim - We use the word "courage" so freely these days that the meaning has lost it's value. Courage is this 13 year old rape victim who not only helped the police to find the suspect, but also testified in court in helping place the suspect in jail forever. That is courage. Well done. 2. ISIS Hostage Rescue - Good to see our forces, along with allies. saved 70 hostages who were facing imminent execution from the scum that is ISIS. 3. New York Mets - The new toast of New York City, the National League Champions are riding high into the biggest stage in baseball with a rotation that is very, very unbelievable. 3 Down 1. Slain NYPD Cop - What a shame. It's so disheartening to see the men and women who risk their lives everyday gunned down for no reason. And shame on some "protesters" who took to the streets protesting the police shortly thereafter. Not the time. Such a terrible situation. 2. Flip Saunders - In a month...

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Furious 7 (2015)

What is it about?   Deckard Shaw seeks revenge on Dominic Torretto and his crew after they placed his brother in a coma.  Who is in it?   Vin Diesel - Dominick Torretto Paul Walker - Brian O'Conner Jason Statham - Deckard Shaw

My Concern For The 2015 New York Mets

The New York Mets are in the World Series.  Those are words that seem awfully strange and foreign for this Yankees die hard, especially, after the run that I've been fortunate to witness and experience in my thirty years on God's green earth. Nonetheless, I would like to congratulate the Mets, especially, their fanbase on what has been a very fun run.  To be honest, I'm not rooting for the Mets, nor am I rooting against them. It is what it is. They deserve the city's adulation as well as the stage they are about to take.  Quite frankly, the Mets, even before this playoff run were very entertaining. As much as it hurts to admit, they have been playing a more entertaining brand of baseball than my boys have been this year. They have an awesome pitching staff, youth, and a style of baseball that wasn't seen from the pinstripers. But, whatevs. Oddly enough, this was a weird rebuilding year for the Yanks. I'll take that when it comes with a Wild Card...

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 10/18/15

3 Up  1. Daniel Murphy - Is there another athlete on the planet right now hotter than Daniel Murphy? A big home run off of Kershaw, Greinke, and Arrieta? Yup, that's clutch. The Mets are running towards the World Series in a year than feels like fate is theirs, and Murphy is leading the way.  2. Scott Van Pelt - I barely watch ESPN anymore, if at all, but I did see SVP's comments on the media coverage regarding Lamar Odom's recent situation. I completely agree with Van Pelt - when did Odom become a "reality star"? Odom is a talented basketball player whose personal demons go well beyond his link to the Kardashians. Please, stop making this - like everything - about the Kardashians.  3. Jose Bautista's Bat Flip - As stated earlier this week, I absolutely loved the bat flip by Bautista. Baseball needs more individuality in it, and less of this ridiculous "unwritten rules" nonsense.  3 Down 1. Lamar Odom Coverage - I touched on th...

Thank You Jose Bautista - May I Have Another Bat Flip?

Yup, this is posted. You know why? Because I love this. I loved the bat flip. I loved the emotion. I loved the passion. I loved the celebration. I loved THAT moment. That's everything baseball is, and in so many ways, should be moving forward. I am so inspired, I may start flipping my pen at work after signing off on documents now. Go ahead, call me a liberal baseball fan, or a progressive one.

Thoughts and Takeaways From First Democratic Presidential Debate

Well, after watching the red guys (and girl) duke it out in what seems like an all out battle royal for the Republican candidacy, it was time to see what was cooking on those coming from the left. The timing was right, especially when the GOP grabbed so much attention via the lightning rod that is Donald Trump.  I felt this first debate for the Dems was indeed vital in introducing America and many new voters to the candidates NOT named Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders. Most importantly, after the excitement to vote drummed up by President Obama in his last two elections, the Dems needed to find a way to connect with those same voters who believed in Obama, and who may want to believe in one of these candidates as well. Quite frankly, this race is for the White House is WIDE open.

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 10/11/15

3 Up 1. Charitable Couple - Julia Wise and Jeff Kauffman both make a combined $245,000 for a yearly income, yet only use 6.25% of their salary to live on ($15,280). The couple donated up to $100,000 a year to charity. This is absolutely remarkable. An interesting read for sure.  2. MLB Playoffs - In my opinion, it's the best postseason in all of sports. Okay, so maybe I am biased. But still, the 2015 MLB Playoffs have been absolutely awesome thus far.  3. Sasha Banks vs. Bayley - The first women's Iron Man match in WWE history was tremendous. Kudos to both Bayley and Sasha Banks who continue to raise the bar for women's wrestling in today's wrestling industry.  3 Down 1. High School Football Deaths - High School football usually has about three deaths per year, and just this month, we have seen five deaths. As we learn more and more about the effects the sport has on the human brain and heart, it's very concerning to see five deaths just this...

Yankees 2015 Season Finale - Thoughts and Reactions

Soooooooo , what has been a fairly enjoyable Yankee season is now all over. Done. Finished. Complete. And ultimately, it all ended in a huge whimpering disappointment.  Last night, there I sat in section 431 of Yankee Stadium and watched inning after inning, after inning, zip by with our offense giving little resistance to Dallas Keuchel (also, my pick for AL Cy Young) stellar performance. Quite frankly, in nine innings of baseball, we never had one base runner get to third base. The hardest hits all night were a Greg Bird liner to centerfield, and a Carlos Beltran smash up the middle. Other than that - silence. Silence!  I'll be lying if I said I'm not writing this with a fallen fandom heart. I'm devastated - it's that same feeling I always have when we are eliminated from the playoffs. A feeling I've missed for the past two years. 

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 10/4/15

3 Up 1. Chris Mintz - Who else? In what is yet another horrific mass shooting on a school camps, Mintz took several bullets and helped saved the lives of many more. You sir, Mt. Mintz, are a real hero and who we should be talking about - NOT the suspect!  2. Neil Everett - OK, If you follow the DP, you know I'm not a huge fan of ESPN's SportsCenter and some of their coverage of sports. However, I came across Neil Everett's comments following the recent Oregon shootings and definitely gained respect for this dude. "What's going on with humanity?" Kudos to you Mr. Everett on taking a stand and saying exactly how we all feel.  3. Max Scherzer - Well, it didn't get them into the playoffs, but tossing another no-hitter, especially wen it comes with a side of 17Ks, is pretty damn impressive. Scherzer is a beast! It's just a shame the Nats couldn't get it together to see him toss when it really matters - October!  3 Down 1. Oregon Sh...

Thoughts on Umpqua Community College Mass Shooting

Anyone else tired of the same regurgitation of topics, debates, and discussions whenever there is a mass shooting in our nation? After all, why wouldn't we be? As a society, we do it every time these tragedies happen on our soil, pleading for the violence to stop, enraged and demanding that we need to do more to prevent these occurrences; and as always, discussing different variances of gun control needed.  It's all so tiring and so damn aggravating. Over the past five years we've witnessed that frightening fact that no one is safe anywhere, even once safe havens such as a church, a temple, a classroom, a movie theater, or on an army base.  Of course, with this recent mass shooting at Umpqua Community College in Oregon, the killer had 13 legal firearms at his disposal and distributed racially hateful messages prior to his killing spree. He also targeted Christians and discussed in the distributed messages how killing could bring a person fame.

Pondering with Plumtree - Bound For Glory Preview: Holding On To Hope

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.

Dome Pondering Movie Review: While We're Young (2014)

What is it about?  A middle-aged couple life's and perspective is changed when a younger couple enters their lives.  Who is in it?  Ben Stiller - Josh Naomi Watts - Cornelia Adam Driver - Jamie Amanda Seyfried - Darby

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 9/28/15

3 Up 1. Lara Logan - After her near death experience while reporting in Egypt in 2011, where she was beaten and sexually assaulted by a mob, Lara Logan is rumored to be ready to head back to her post as a reporter for CBS News. Kudos to Logan on the road to recovery. And for returning to her career.  2. Jake Arrieta - Another near perfect game on Sunday Night Baseball, but Arrieta will settle for the consolation of another win towards his 21-7 record. Oh yeah, he also hit a home run. Is he not the NL Cy Young Award winner?  3. Lunar Eclipse - How cool was the moon tonight? I won't even begin to describe what type of eclipse it was. All I know is that it was really cool to see.  3 Down 1. Yogi Berra - It was sad to hear of the death of Yogi Berra this week. To hear of his accomplishments within baseball and what he meant to the game was a nice reminder, especially for a thirty year old like myself who may sometimes think of some of these guys as just...

One Third of My Life

It never ceases to amaze me where the good Lord has taken me in my life. Never in a million years, in so many attempts if given, would I ever imagine my life being where it is at thirty when I was a child, or in High School, or even when I was in college. Heck, even in graduate school. Never, never, never.  On this very September 24th, you know, 9/24 for those longtime DP devotees and readers of the Unity Road Writings , I celebrate four years of marriage with my wife. While that is very much a feat and time for celebration - those who are married know what I mean - it's the underlying statistic that stands out to me this year. What is that you might say?  I've been with my wife for ten years. Ten years! That is exactly one third of my entire life.  I'm not exactly sure what to make of it. It's a really long time. It means I am quite old in some aspects, and that I've known this woman for soooooooo long. Really, we've both seen each other change in...

Remembering Yogi Berra

Unfortunately, I learned of Yogi Berra's death via Twitter at 3:30am. While up going through schedules, paperwork, and e-mails for work, I decided to take a ten minute break and saw an image of Yogi Berra on the social media platform with the heart dropping text "1925-2015".  For me, a thirty-year old Yankees fan, I'll be a fool to say I understand Yogi Berra's impact on baseball and pop culture. Quite frankly, I don't and never will. Berra transcended the game of baseball with his personality and his intelligent quotes, now known as "Yogiisms". I am a product of his influence, and never truly was able to capture the ball player, as well as Berra during his peak years.  Regardless, Berra is easily one of the best baseball players ever. Seriously, ever. I am a firm believer that the position of catcher is more important and tougher than quarterback. Just me. Just bloggin'. And I am well aware that statement may just be sacrilegious to...

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 9/20/15

3 Up 1. Viola Davis - Not only did Davis become the first black woman to win an Emmy for best actress in a drama, but Davis delivered a very classy and poignant speech when it comes to Hollywood and the "opportunities" given. Again, well earned, Ms. Davis.  2. Carly Fiorina - Women are running the "Ups" this week as Fiorina clearly was the biggest winner from the 2nd National Debate. Her responses have been quick, short, un-politician-like, and most of all, intelligent. Fiorina's performances in both debates now have her number two in the polls behind of course, Donald Trump.  3. Tracy Morgan Return - It was the moment on a big shows that are special. After a near fatal bus accident, Morgan's surprise return at the Emmys was a big moment for him, fans, and the industry.  3 Down 1. Baby Doe Murder - It is so unfortunate the way this poor child's life was snuffed out. Punched to death? Wrapped in a bag? Thrown in the Boston Harbor? S...

Thoughts and Takeaways From Second Republican Presidential Debate

Over four hours - yes, four hours! - of debate occurred this past week and you knew yours truly was utterly excited. Yayyyy rhetoric! Nonetheless, after a few stops along the campaign trail for most of these candidates, a big shake up in the polls following the first national debate, and Rick Perry folding his hand at the table, CNN get's the nod in delivering the second national debate for the GOP. After logging massive hours of taking notes, and yes, geeking out on this very debate season, here are some of my takeaways from the second Republican National Debate.

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 9/13/15

3 Up 1. Djokovic and Pannetta - After what has been an outstanding U.S. Open, both Novak Djokovic and Flavia Pannetta walked away with the mens and womens crowns. The tournament had many storylines among the great play that supported it, and these two are well deserving after it all.  2. Toronto Blue Jays - Earning an "up" again are the Blue Jays who came into New York with a big series against my Yankees and pretty much dropped the hammer on them. The wins pretty much give the Blue Jays a commanding lead in the AL East. 3. Pluto Picture - The newest pictures of Pluto show mountains and dunes and so much more regarding the far away planet (is it still considered a planet? I don't know anymore). The new pictures are really interesting, as is all new exploration in space.  3 Down 1. James Blake Arrest  - This story is great evidence of the aggressive nature cops take when it comes to men of color. Even former pro tennis player, James Blake, was the vict...

Believers Are Out of Line When it Comes to Kim Davis

As a believer, as a man who holds faith in the context of the Bible, and as one that associates himself with the description, "Christian" (albeit the beating and distortion the term has become today), I am overly appalled at not just the actions by Kim Davis, but by many who are in of her support.  The entire #StandwithKim and #PrayforKim movements (then again, are trending hashtags really "movements"?) are rather ridiculous. The idea that Davis, a government official, who serves the public, works for the public, and is paid by the public - you know like public, meaning EVERYONE, not just believers - would take it upon herself to refuse gay couples a marriage license is ridiculous.

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Obvious Child (2014)

What is it about?  A stand-up comedienne deals with life after losing her boyfriend, her job, and then becoming pregnant during a period where she feels alone and afraid.  Who is in it?  Jenny Slate - Donna Stern Jake Lacy - Max Brown Gaby Hoffman - Nellie

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Short Term 12 (2013)

What is it about?   A young member of a residential treatment facility juggles the issues and concerns of that world alongside the personal occurrences and struggles of her own. Who is in it?  Brie Larson - Grace John Gallagher Jr. - Mason

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 9/715

3 Up 1. Germany and Sweden - The European migration issue is not one that is easy to wrap your mind around. It's a rather deep situation with a lot of gray area morally and ethically. Despite the choices, kudos to Germany and Sweden who have kept their doors open to those refugees fleeing Syria's current war. Again, it's not an easy call, but they've made the decision to help others.  2. Pink - Major props this week goes to the recording artist, Pink, who called out the MTV VMA's for what it is - garbage. Okay, fine, that was my word, however, Pink was brave enough to say what really is true, "this trash won't save any kids life." She went on further honestly describe the VMAs, "...Let down by my industry and peers". Amen, Pink. So glad someone in the music industry called the VMAs for what it is. 3. Starstruck Boy - This kid who was set to walk out with Swansea City and Manchester City  and had the best reaction once he realiz...

#DeflateGate: What an absolute Mess!

So here we go again with the National Football League and it's careless antics. Another disciplinary problem for a league that continues to hold it's popularity and product in the highest form of arrogance possible. After all, let's get this straight - someone on the team that just won your league championship cheated, you penalized them, the U.S. District court reversed it due to "legal deficiencies" in your actions in doing so, the NFL already penalized the Patriots and head coach, Bill Belichik, who were found innocent in the original investigation, and now Brady is free. Justice won't occur for someone breaking the rules, and #DeflateGate was a HUGE waste of our time.  Got it? Okay, so most of us knew the last part was true, especially the way ESPN wanted us to believe the matter was as big as the Iran Deal. However, I'm of the belief, someone did break the rules, game equipment was altered, and the NFL needed to handle it correctly, even ...

Dome Pondering Movie Review: The Imitation Game (2014)

What's it about? The story of Alan Turing, and his quest during WWII to crack the enigma code along with help from fellow mathematicians in order to end the war. Who is in it? Benedict Cumberpatch - Alan Turing Keira Knightley - Joan Clarke Matthew Goode - Hugh Alexander

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 8/30/15

3 Up 1. Jake Arrieta - I'm sorry, but Jon Lester is no longer the ace of the staff. Arrieta is the big gun for the Chicago Cubs moving forward, and throwing a no hitter against the Dodgers on Sunday Night Baseball is proof of that.  2. Class of 2019 - As someone who works in collegiate athletics and very much tied to the higher learning environment, college campuses across the nation welcomed the new class of 2019 (crazy!) this past week. Good luck to the new freshmen and the impending future of this nation/world! 3. Toronto Blue Jays - I hate to say it as a die hard Yankees fan, but these boys are rollin'! And of course, Canada, yes the entire nation, has adopted this team as their own and have supported them with enough energy to make them a tough out in the coming weeks, and possibly come playoff time.  3 Down 1. Virginia Shootings - How sick have we become as a culture where shootings on live television are now our reality. We can't even trust the f...