Dome Pondering

3 Up 1. Thanksgiving Weekend - Sure, the origins date back to Pilgrims taking land from Native Americans, but hey, our entire nation is based around such things, no? Regardless of it's history, the weekend of being thankful is still a good one for those understanding and realizing how blessed they are. It's a time for good reflection, and of course, a great mental break from everyday life.  2. North Korea Escape - Can you imagine your heart rate in attempting to make your run for freedom from North Korea? Now, can you imagine the relief and joy in actually making it? Those soldiers who took their shot at the border (for essentially their lives) are some insanely courageous individuals.  3. College Basketball - I've watched way too much college basketball this holiday weekend. But, as stated above, I'm thankful for it - especially, for those who don't really care for football, like myself. Much thanks to Phil Knight and the PK80 tournament.  3 Do

Courtesy: WWE.com For me, pro wrestling is an interesting place. And it got here in 2017.  For the pro wrestling fan, there are plenty of current options. We're not talking the kind of options that was once out there on a national level (ala WCW and ECW), but the kind we now have in various indie operations, the many regions that are currently on fire (UK Scene), and yes, those that you can simply log onto YouTube, or some other streaming service to find content of. The pro wrestling fan doesn't have to have cable anymore. Actually, there isn't much of a need for cable as is. And quite frankly, the pro wrestling fan probably doesn't even need national wrestling companies as well. Just like the pro wrestling fan, I too find myself in this peculiar area on the spectrum seeking and exploring various organizations, offerings, and presentations of the art form that is available. Much like I did in the past, I'm open to seeing what's out there, and

What is it about?  Set in 1995, two sisters find out about an affair that their father is having, and in the process of trying to deal with it, come to grips in their own personal lives in how they are cheating others.  Who is in it?  Jenny Slate - Dana Jay Duplass - Ben Abby Quinn - Ali John Turturro - Alan Edie Falco -  Pat

3 Up 1. Lt. Sayem Basad Pacha - No one will ever know what went through Pacha's head before he bear-hugged a suicide bomber the moment the vest was detonated. I can't even wrap my mind around the thought process. Whatever it is, this man is one thing - hero. And that's in the purest form.  2. Kianoush Rostami - The earthquake that rocked the Iran/Iraq border was devastating. Yet, here is Rostami giving up his prized possession of an Olympic gold medal to raise money for the relief effort. Much respect.  3. WWE War Games - In a more light-hearted "Up" this week (we need that from time-to-time, no?), the WWE's Survivor Series weekend was just fantastic. But man, so much props to everyone who put work into Saturday's NXT show, as well as the return of War Games. That match was so awesome.  3 Down 1. Rob Moore - All I will say is this - it's bad when even something such as sexual assault is now becoming a topic and a driving forc

What is it about?  A woman comes to grips with realizing that her big break in the playwright industry has faded, and must learn to make make the transition.  Who is in it?  Kristen Wiig - Imogene Annette Bening - Zelda Matt Dillon - George 

3 Up 1. Aly Raisman - Following the bravery of Mckayla Maroney and others in the #MeToo campaign, Raisman has stepped forward as the charges pile up for sexual abuse by former USA Gymnastics doctor, Larry Nassar. By the way, shame on USA Gymnastics for continuing to allow this culture. I shudder to think what else lies in the world of Gymnastics.  2. New York Times - In a world where journalism - real journalism - is becoming harder and harder to find, The Times continues to break stories left and right, and did so again this week with the Louis CK piece. I think we all are tired of journalism wrapped in identity politics, and yes, even "fake news".  3. Kristaps Porzingis - Obviously, you all know how much I love the Unicorn. But seriously, how enjoyable is he to watch? And barring injury, he can only get better. Melo, who?  3 Down 1. Sean Hannity - Seriously, I don't even know how this guy sleeps at night. And really, I'm not even sure what k

I snapped this photo in midtown Manhattan following a meeting with, believe it or not, various professors from my alma mater of Cazenovia College. It was tremendous catching up with them all, especially considering it's been ten-plus years since I've seen them.  Sometimes, honestly, it's almost like I forget I spent four years in upstate New York. And when I am reminded of it, often I am amazed at how such a small town helped prepare me to tackle the big city, New York City - my home.  Life is crazy. 

3 Up 1. Shalene Flanagan - Running 26.2 miles always boggles my mind. I'm mentally and physically exhausted once I hit four miles. I'm the worst. Regardless, Flanagan's NYC Marathon win today was epic and momentous in becoming the first American-born runner to win the race in 40 years. 2. Houston Astros - What a World Series! As their tag ling stated all year, they "earned history" with a spectacular year, and a gutsy playoff run. Honestly, any one else still in awe of AJ Hinch's ability to win the whole thing with the bullpen - that bullpen that he had?  BTW - Luke Gregorson won a WBC Title and a World Series championship in the same year. Pretty damn good year, no?  3. Deontay Wilder - Despite the many flaws that surround the sport, there are fights like this past Saturday night that keep hope and interest alive. Please peep Wilder's knockout victory - and several knockdowns - in the first round. The dude is a monster! Boxing has a

It's a location I know so well. I visit there. I send people there. Heck, I've worked there. And today, it was the scene of terrorism.  Imagine the horror and the absolute shock I endured to read and hear of the happenings of a truck going down the West Side Highway bike path plowing over pedestrians before slamming into a school bus near Stuyvesant High School.  This same bike path, is in the park I worked for several years ago. The same park that I cut my teeth as a professional in sports, recreation, and events. The same park I grew to appreciate for the three years I worked there. The same park I still go to often. The same park I send students for programs and events today.