Dome Pondering

Another year, another opportunity to reflect on it all. As the days, hours, and seconds continue to tick away on a rather heavy and at times, exhausting, 2018, let us take a moment to reflect on it all, and of course, digest what the heck just happened. For me, it was all about change. Personally, professionally, and mentally. And of course, fitting all of that into a world that is laregely unforgiving continues to be the caveat in this race called life. Regardless, 2018 is coming to an end. Of course, here we are with the traditional Dome Pondering Year in Review post, the 13th of its kind, to take one last peek before slamming the book closed on this one.

It's the final days of the year and as always here on the DP, we close the year with two signature posts - this one, a Pondering 10 on the topics I found the most fascinating, and of course, the Dome Pondering Year in Review - to be released in VERY soon!  With that said, let's dive into the year that was 2018, and some super fascinating things.

Pro wrestling was surely something in 2018, huh? For this fan, it definitely posed some tough decisions and observations that I haven't been used to in my life as a wrestling fan. That's not to sound overly-dramatic or produce insane hyperbole for a year-in-review-sort-of-piece, but it's just the truth. Again just for this fan - wrestling in 2018 has been a turning point in my fandom. Before I go any further, I should explain and give you some backdrop to my situation and outlook. As of 2018, I became a father. I also have a growing responsibility in taking care of my aging parents. With that said, as you can imagine, my disposable time is now of the utmost importance. When (really, if) I ever have free time, I need to choose wisely on how I use it. Of course, when I do have free time, I also prefer to make it worthy, and my options are indeed abound.   For this wrestling fan that once watched countless promotions, sought out New Japan Pro Wrestling events on t

-- 6 Months and 1 Day Old -- Dear Son, It's been three months since my last letter to you. Since then, you've been growing right before my eyes and making some huge strides in terms of connecting to your mother and I. For over the Fall season, I've witnessed you follow your eyes on us for the first time, recognize us for the first time, sit up for the first time, and yes, even take your first strides in crawling. It's been amazing! And that's not counting some of the unique moments new parents notice in terms of motions, developments, and very unique mannerisms. We actually live for those idiosyncrasies. Nonetheless, here we are - your first Christmas!

3 Up 1. Google Commercial - I'm not sure why I liked this commercial so much. Maybe it's because Home Alone is one of my favorite Christmas movies. I'm not much for re-makes, but at times, a great nod (especially when done right) to a classic film is always welcomed. 2. Christmas Miracle - With Christmas right around the corner, I'm all about feel good stories, and of course, stories that emphasizes the Christmas spirit. In the midst of all the Christmas craziness, THIS STORY about a woman being taken off of life support is very up-lifting. It's a Christmas Miracle! 3. NFL's "Slave" Mentality - Of course, LeBron may have put his foot in his mouth later on this week, but he wasn't wrong about the description of the NFL owners. What's crazy is that CC Sabathia has alluded to this previously on his own podcast. Many athletes outside of the NFL question the NFL's culture and overall treatment of the players, not to mention, the &quo

It's weird how I truly miss New York City when I am on the way out of it, or have left it completely.

3 Up 1. Charles Barkley Unlikely Friend - I can't do this story justice. Just give it a read. Such a heartfelt story that restores your faith in humanity, especially during this time of the year. Again, please read. 2. Walmart Layways - Pay it Forward - It started with a few people, then Tyler Perry took it over the top, and now many are paying off items on layaway at Walmarts across the country. Again, great stories like this is what we all need during the Holidays, no? 3. Winter Meetings - After a last year's ice cold freeze out, this year we're off to a great start with names being thrown about, trades going down, and some of the biggest names in the game linked to the most unlikeliest of suitors. And yes, like you, I'm eager to see where Machado and Harper land. 3 Down 1. Death of Jaeklin Caal - Heartbreaking. Headscratching. Politics aside - and even the quick (and of ten too easy trigger) of blaming Trump - this is unspeakable. How this happens on US

3 Up 1. MLS Cup - Not only was the game amazing, but over 73.019 packed the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium down in Atlanta, setting a new MLS Attendance Record! Congratulations to Atlanta United as well - second year in existence, and already hoisting hardware! Also, major judos to the city of Atlanta! Who knew Atlanta was a soccer city? 2. LeBron/Grizzlies Employee - There was just something about this story that was awesome. LeBron knew for years looking at her kicks, never said anything, and finally gave her a pair for her collection. It's a unique story, yet, one that just shows the human side of LeBron. It's the little things sometimes... 3. Frolicking Dolphins - This is a weird one, but it is so damn cool. A man on his typical ferry commute captured 200 dolphins making their way through the ocean. Sounds silly and kind of corny, but seriously, watch the video and tell me it isn't serene? 3 Down 1. White House - From yet another person stepping down, to the c

Call me crazy, but I really do believe in the Miami Marlins under Derek Jeter. Maybe it's just the 90's baby-Yankee fan in me, but I just don't see Jeter ever losing. Ever. In fact, the many who were so quick to jump the gun on his team taking over the franchise don't understand just how terribly run the Marlins have been operated prior to his taking over. Or really, don't truly understand how sports from a business perspective works. Regardless, after his rookie season as an owner, the changes are now pouring in. From embracing the city, to organization changes such as all players learning Spanish (so awesome!), the Marlins are going to be interesting moving forward. And now, we get a new design, new stadium upgrades, and new uniforms!

3 Up 1. Steph Curry/Riley Morrison - This story was my favorite thing of this week (obviously, right?!). It actually might be one of my favorite stories in a while. Upset with Under Armour's Curry 5's not being available sizes for girls, Riley wrote Steph Curry an awesome letter, only for Steph to return with an awesome letter of his own, and a pretty cool gesture. Diversity efforts and super cool athletes - can't beat it. Love this story. Be sure to check it out. 2. Helpful Co-Workers - Maybe I'm getting in the holiday spirit because I'm all about these human effort stories this week. I really think there should be a Good News network on TV to balance out the garbage we often see. Nonetheless, here is a cool story that can restore your faith in humanity, even if you had a tough week. 3. Giannis Antetokounmpo - I watched a few of his games over the past two weeks, including this week against my Knicks and really got a hold for his game. Not just the highli

What is it about?  A father and daughter form an unlikely duo and work through changes in their lives the summer before she leaves for college. Who is in it?  Nick Offerman - Frank Fisher Kiersey Clemons - Sam Fisher Toni Collette - Leslie

3 Up 1. Thanksgiving Holiday - Thanksgiving is always a good time. Family. Food. And of course, giving thanks for the many blessings we have - and often overlook all year long. I hope it was a good one for all of you. 2. Zachara Brothers - In a week of celebrating family, it was two brothers who found humanity in themselves to give of themselves in help of the devastating California wildfires. The Zachara brothers drove from Chicago to California in an effort to help the animals in danger from the situation. That's some top notch stuff. Much props to both. 2. LeBron James - I read an interesting stat the other day. Of all players in their 16+ season in the NBA, there are only 5 50-point games. 1 by Karl Malone, 1 by Kobe Bryant (his last game), and 3 by LeBron James. Three! And in an odd way, he's getting better. It's just crazy. 3 Down 1. Immigration - Obviously, the situation at the border became a heightened one in our news conscious this past week. However

3 Up 1. Caris Levert Injury - Sure, it looked nasty (and felt downright sad) at first, but the diagnosis, fortunately, was just a dislocation. If you saw the injury, it's pretty hard to imagine that Levert will be back this year, but he will be. And after watching him ball for the Nets thus far this season, that's good to hear. 2. Mauro Ranallo - I'm throwing Ranallo some love this week. NXT Takeover was absolutely fantastic this weekend. And really, so was Survivor Series - the WWE killed it. But damn, Ranallo makes NXT so exciting. His energy as an announcer is so infectious, and it's what pro wrestling has missed since the days of Jim Ross. The guy is just the best. 3. Patriot Act - I started watching Hasan Minhaj's Patriot Act show on Netflix this week, and it's an awesome show. Politics. Comedy. Culture. Comedy. Relatable. Comedy. But most importantly, so informative and so profound, on so many topics. Good stuff. I was a fan since seeing his days

3 Up 1. Veteran's Day Weekend - Sometimes, saying "Thank a Veteran" sounds cheesy and not enough. And even the day feels, well, not enough. But really, it should feel that way, no? So many thanks to those who served our great country! And even that didn't feel enough. 2. Midterm Elections - I'm giving the "Up" for this week's midterm elections not because of the political outcome or strategy involved. I'm giving it some love because of the process involved. Because many people are once again invested in the political process. And because, we saw many first-time-elected candidates come to fruition - women, people of color, etc... Especially, so, the now overwhelming power of the woman vote. 3. MLS Playoffs - The MLS Playoffs has been awesome. And yes, I was glued to my TV for my Red Bulls who exercised some demons against The Crew tonight! Both Conference Finals are going to be really, really, interesting. 3 Down 1. Thousand Oaks Mass

"Just vote all Republicans! Listen to Rabbi, that's what we do!" A few were startled by the man exiting the polling center  and shouting into his phone, offering advice to the confused political soul on the other end. That was the scene I briefly encountered as I walked toward my voting site here in Brooklyn, New York. On a very charged election day with the house and senate up for grabs during this mid-term election, and of course, the unofficial kick-off for the 2020 Presidential race (God help us all), political thoughts and stances were heightened between all human beings. And so were stigmas, stereotypes, and well, the thats-what-we-dos. I live in a predominately Jewish neighborhood that is counterbalanced with a diverse offering of non-jewish folk. As you can expect, the poling site in my neighborhood is not only split and stratified on these election days between Jews and gentiles, but by faith, by race, and of course, by socioeconomic status. And oh yea

3 Up 1. Simone Biles - If Simone Biles wasn't awesome already, add another World Championship to her resume with so many descriptions that scream domination, such as her winning her 4th all-around title. Biles' medal collection is ridiculous. Quite a run before 22 years of age. 2. NYC Marathon Winners - So much props to Lelisa Desisa of Ethopia and Mary Keitany of Kenya, who both were amazing today in winning the NYC Marathon. Marathons are still such an amazing feat to me - props to all participants, finishers, and those currently training for the future. 3. Google Staff Walkouts - Kudos to the employees of Google who walked out on Thursday in protest of the handling of sexual harassment payouts. The idea that those with allegations against them were paid $90M - 90 friggin MILLION! - as a settlement. Seriously, how does that NOT make any employee upset? Or any human being? 3 Down 1. Kanye West - I thought about putting this under "1 Dumb". But really, K

Be Perfect?? I was. ✌NYU.

Earned. That's the one word that comes to mind as I punch the keys on this post. After seven years at NYU, I will be ending my chapter there this week. It's been a long and adventurous chapter, and honestly, it's been an awesome seven years. Like, seriously, AWESOME. Despite the usual complaints we all have about our workplaces, which of course pops up from time to time, my seven years at NYU has provided me with joy, memories, tremendous people, and the ability to develop in sooooooo many ways, professionally. It was easy to tell - I loved my job. After all, this very job, was my dream job.

3 Up 1. Boston Red Sox - As much as it pains me to say this (and it very much does), the Red Sox take the top spot this week. Even further (and hurting my soul even more), they might have been the best team I've seen in my lifetime since the 1998 Yankees. Congrats to the city of Boston on (another?!?!) sports title. Ugh. 2. Roman Reigns - The news of Roman Reigns announcement that he was battling leukemia was devastating - just another case of you don't know what's going on in someone else's life. It's surreal to me personally, as I share a birthday and am the same age as someone like Reigns. Life can come at you fast, and be very cruel, no matter how hard you work. However, The Big Dog gets the "Up" here for sharing the news so publicly, including his testimony of fighting it since the age of 12. And really, the dude seemed to be taking it stronger than everyone around him - including all of us, fans. Get well soon, Roman! 3. New York Red Bulls -

3 Up 1. MLB World Series - After weeks of an awesome MLB Playoffs, the World Series is now set with such an intriguing match up between two uber-talented ball clubs. Definitely looking forward to Tuesday night. 2. G-League $125K - Well, we are now inching towards what should be an interesting shift in the basketball world. It should be very intriguing to see the option between the exposure of the NCAA and March Madness vs. the guaranteed $125K and the luxury of access to professional aid and development for many talented eighteen year olds. But honestly, the NCAA and Division I basketball has been a joke for years in terms of it's exploitation talent and it's absurd corruption and rules. Heres to hoping it forces them to get their acts together. 3. " This is 18 " - I'm a sucker for social pieces. This recent New York Times outlook is super interesting on what the age of 18 looks like to many girls around the world. It's a great lens into what marks t

3 Up 1. Mobilized Voters - Mid-term elections are upon us, and it's been quite interesting to see so many people mobilized (and motivated) to vote. For me personally, I haven't experienced this kind of push, regardless of your political views, since 2008. Unfortunately, with that ambition, comes more voter suppression - ugh. 2. Elon Musk - Kudos to Musk who donated $480,000 to Flint Schools in order provide clean water. Despite this awesome generosity, two things: 1) Did it really take only 480K to provide clean water? How infuriating is that?! And, 2) At ONLY 480K, isn't clean water for Flint easier than the continuing negligence we are seeing? 3. Paul Lopez - The first black for F-22 Demonstration Team is quite the accomplishment. And honestly, the fact that being the "first black person" is still available in specific categories in life, just shows how far we have to go as a nation. 3 Down 1. Murder of Jamal Khoshaoggi - This such an awful story.

As the ball hit the back of Steve Pearce's glove, and the final out of the Yankees season came to an end, I found myself slumped on my couch with my son in tow next to me - dejected. Not irate, but flat out disappointed. It felt like conquering the Red Sox was goal #1 this season, with winning a World Series just behind it. I'll explain in a few... Nonetheless, as goes the deal today in sports, I opened Twitter (huge mistake!) to find opinions, rants, and absurd raging remarks filled with the usual over-the-top hyperbole and dramatic perspectives on the Yankees season. Sometimes, I want to chalk it up to passion, pain, and the need to simply grieve the moment at hand, but as always, it was all pure lunacy. Regardless of the immediate reactions and takes, I found myself in a sunken state, almost in a weird mode of reflection. For starters, here is something most Yankees fans don't want to say among the midst of their lashing out at Giancarlo Stanton, or their Fire B

3 Up 1. MLB Playoffs - Thus far, the beginning of the playoffs has been unbelievable. Despite the Red Sox dominate season, all five teams to make the playoffs had legitimate arguments to win the World Series. I always say it - because it is true - baseball has the best playoffs. 2. New York Times Trump Tax Article - This was a VERY interesting read. Also interesting was the research and documents sought through to put together this piece. OF course, many are going to claim "fake news" and hyper politicize it, but you know, whatevs. The President has done a lot od dumb things, and some things he gets treated unfairly on, but this is one of those tha makes you wonder about his legitimacy and the authenticity of who he claims to be - an American self-made Millionaire. 3. 6-Year Old Resource Officer - I just loved this story. We don't get enough good news in the world, and this is one of those stories - especially, since becoming a father - that truly makes you see t

I'm not shocked at all that Brett Kavanaugh was sworn in as a Supreme Court Justice. Not shocked in the least. I wasn't exactly rooting for him to be removed, or even wishing for his entire career to be thrown down the hatch due to the recent state of events - that would be unwarranted and cruel. After all, one could argue that regardless of what happens moving forward, Brett Kavanaugh will always have everything - EVERYTHING - that happened in late 2018 hovering over his career. However, what I find discomfort in, as many do - well, I guess depending on your party affiliation and/or strength of commitment to said party and overall belief - is the overwhelming reaction and outlook by Washington on the situation.

--3 Months & 1 Week Old -- Dear Son,  It's been awhile since I've written a letter to you. The summer has been absolutely amazing, and exhausting - definitely exhausting - but really, amazing. Amazing, in a tiring sort of way. It's strange. It's a feeling I've heard for a long time from parents, and one I now understand myself. I hope for that feeling for you one day as well. You'll get what I mean.  Yet, here you are! Three months old, bright-eyed, and beginning to show flashes of personality, all while the rolls on your now Michelin Man-like body reflects your physical growth.  We've made it through what feels like the parental probation period that is the three month mark. And while the summer brought about many things in the real world that often caused your mother and I to take mental notes on the person we would like you to be, we still are very much content on just enjoying this process. Of you growing. Of us, growing.

3 Up 1. Dr. Christine Blasey Ford - Classy. Clutch. Those are the first words that arise to me when it came to Dr. Ford and her proceedings during this week's hearing. She was absolutely gracious and poised in an environment that is meant to break others, and was the reasoning why many sexual assault victims do not come forward. Do I believe her? Honestly, I very much do. Especially after seeing Judge Kavanugh's super defensive outbursts and answers.  2. Elevator Women to Sen. Flake - Kudos to these women. They took activism straight to the lawmakers themselves, and forced them to listen. This, honestly, might be my favorite thing of 2018 thus far.  3. MLB Weekend - What a weekend. We had the goodbyes (in various forms) to David Wright, Joe Mauer, Adrian Beltre among others, and we have an awesome week lineup with two tie-breaker games tomorrow leading into the playoffs. Gimme all the baseball as we prepare to be without it soon.  3 Down 1. Kavanaugh He

3 Up 1. Eluide Kipchoge - I'm always impressed with any running feat. But come on! This dude just broke the World record for not just any running feat - for a freakin marathon! He finished the Berlin Marathon in 2 hours 1 Minute and 39 seconds!! Kipchoge ran his first 10 kilometers in 29:21! That's just insane. So insane. 2. John Legend - Props this dude for completing the EGOT, and of course, becoming the first black person to do so. That is some big time, historical, accomplishment-stuff. 3. Tiger Woods - Do I care about golf? Not really. Not even when Woods was in his prime. Yet, who doesn't love a great comeback sports story? I'm still not OK with how he treated his ex-wife, but I'm always up for a redemption story. I do like seeing people rebound. 3 Down 1. Florence Death Toll - With the numbers rising as the days go by, it's a shame to see the aftermath of such a storm in the Carolinas. Here is to hoping we can get help to the region sufficien

3 Up 1. 5 Year Old on "Making New Friends" - I often don't get caught up in internet sensations, but this one was legit in making my day. Good for a laugh, and also, the kid is speaking some truth on making new friends. Can't be eating crayons... 2. Statue Removal - You know it's amazing how simple some things are in our country. Many are complex, but things such as racist or insensitive statues from time periods that shouldn't be honored are one of them - just take them down. Kudos to the city of San Francisco in getting it right this week. 3. Boy Consoled By Stranger - We need more stories like this in our mainstream indulgence. Give it a read - I'm pretty sure this story will warm your soul. 3 Down 1. Hurricane Florence - The sights and pictures of the aftermath and it's damage are now beginning to spread. Prayers go up for those on the Mid-Atlantic coast, and the many more returning to life after Florence in the coming days. 2. Trum

3 Up 1. Osaka/Djokovic - Well the U.S. Open surely was interesting this weekend, huh? Despite the shenanigans, much love to both Naomi Osaka and Novak Djokovic who played great games to win the U.S. Open. 2. Nike - Not many companies do it because of fear of backlash or lobbying backlash, but kudos to those at Nike who made the decision to stand for Equality this past week. It definitely is a trying time, and it's refreshing to see in a world where lobbying efforts and political fear rules. 3. Obama Speech - I miss President Obama. I mis everything that is his coolness and oratory splendor. This isn't a political bias. It's just that after his speech - damn, I miss the dude giving speeches. And truthfully, I miss a President who understood social injustice. 3 Down 1. Cincinnati Shooting - Imagine, we live in a time where another public shooting doesn't cause major concern, but in fact, who headlines a sporting apparel ad causes an uproar. 2. Dallas Police

It's been a week since ALL IN, but when you have a newborn, things get pushed aside rather quickly, and schedules become as chaotic as a Stone Cold Steve Austin Beer Truck segment. Regardless, I finally had a chance to sit down and watch the transcending event that is ALL IN, and it was everything a pro wrestling fan would want it to be; everything a pro wrestler dreamed it would be; and really, everything the changing landscape of pro wrestling needed it to be.  Much props to Cody [Don't you dare call him Rhodes] and Nick and Matt Jackson of the Young Bucks. Forget pro wrestling for a second, having an spirit of entrepreneurship is one thing, but to actually act upon it, invest in it, and put everything on the line for a vision takes some guts. In this age where there are so many people who criticize behind a keyboard and a screen, especially when it comes to pro wrestling, taking a road less traveled can't be easy.  Not only did they do that, their event w

So in shocking fashion, the juggernaut that is Nike has now backed Colin Kaepernick and all that is, was, and has become, in this on-going dilemma. And of course, has now added a new layer to it all. Interestingly enough, the company fully supports Kap, and has centered the 30th Anniversary of it's "Just Do It" campaign around him, continuing a clear divide of idealism and ridiculousness across the country. And shall I say, even more absurd rhetoric on defining patriotism in the good ol' United States of America. First things, first. If you're new to this blog, I'll catch you up to speed on my stance - I've been with Kap. And no, I'm not "anti-American". But I'm pretty sure you will jump to conclusions and tell me that I am.

3 Up  1. Remembering McCain/Franklin - The nation mourned two significant and historic people, when it comes to Americana, in John McCain and Aretha Franklin this weekend. Still tough to believe we are now without both, but of course, better off for it. 2. Clint Dempsey - Cheers to Dempsey who finally called it a career. From representing the US National team as well as leading the Seattle Sounders to an MLS Cup, Dempsey played the great game with grit, fire, and a style that could entice any American to the game. 3. ALL IN - I haven't had a chance to truly sit down and watch the event (planning on it soon), but from reviews, Twitter (of course), and hearsay, the event is can't miss. And what a success for Cody Rhodes and the Young Bucks producing a massive show independently. The pro wrestling landscape is definitely changing. 2019 is going to be wild. 3 Down  1. Puerto Rico Death Toll - So, the death toll of Hurricane Maria is almost the equivalent of what 9/11 w

3 Up 1. Nike Serena Williams Ad - Baseball gets a lot of criticism for it's relationship with the best player in it's game, but that is nothing - NOTHING - compared to what the sport of tennis continues to do to one of it's greats in Serena Williams. The recent "cat suit" ban is a joke. And yes, the ban is racist, sexist, and super elitist. Nonetheless, in classic Nike fashion - no pun intended - the response ad in support of Williams was absolutely fantastic. 2. Welcome Week on Campuses - As a student affairs practitioner, I'm upon that week where we welcome incoming students to the higher education experience. Some have already gone through it. Regardless, much love to my fellow SA-ers, my colleagues, and friends out there during this period. Keep doing the great things on campus that you do! 3. Big 3 - In it's second year, the BIG 3 season this year was so much fun. And the recent title game was just that as well. I got a chance to really di

As much as the wrestling world has changed in 2018, and for the better might I add, nothing exemplifies the stronghold and the brand footprint the WWE has on the pro wrestling scene than the interest and engagement of fans for their mega-weekends. I'll be the first one to tell you, I fast-forward through WWE programming too often, and rarely ever to dive into anything on either show as of late. That's five hours - FIVE - that in my opinion, feels optional at best. It's quite crazy when you type it out. But enough on the bashing. Because again, regardless of their weekly programming, no one does these mega-weekends better than the WWE. And naturally, I found myself diving into everything Vince-owned. Unfortunately, the weekend produced some great, some good, some bad, and ultimately, too much content. As always, here are a new notes from this fan on this year's SummerSlam weekend.

3 Up 1. Johnny Russell - Russell takes the top spot this week in a pretty cool moment that reminds us of what sports are all about. After a young fan held up a sign for him during the Sporting Kansas City game proclaiming that it was her birthday, Russell went over and gave the girl his jersey as well as hug. A simple gesture, but the girl's reaction makes this top-spot worthy. 2. Oakland Athletics - The A's are coming, and they are coming for everyone! Not only have they taken over the second Wild Card spot, but the A's have now put the Astros on notice that they might be coming for the division as well. I'm super happy for a passionate fanbase that unfortunately, too many bring up in contraction discussions. 3. Velveteen Dream - Putting "Call me Up Vince" on the back of your pants during an NXT Takeover Event (WWE's development for those who aren't aware) is so boss. So, so boss. 3 Down 1. Catholic Church - All I'm going to say is

-- 8 Weeks Old -- Dear Son,  The last 8 weeks have been pretty crazy, and even that is an understatement in many ways. Your presence has really reshaped, refocused, and redefined much of how I look at life, and my relationship with others (more on that in another post). Honestly, the bottom line - you're number one in everything. Like, EVERYTHING.  I'll never - EVER - forget the month of July 2018. I spent an incredibly vast amount of time with you in the earliest days of your life. Luckily, I was able to be awarded four weeks of paternity leave from work to bond, to help, and really, to fall in love you with you - and let's be honest, it didn't (doesn't) take much. Throughout that month I've watched countless hours of television with you on my chest or in my arms, and anyone can tell you, I don't watch much television. So let that speak for itself. I've done multiple laps around our apartment giving in to your obsession of needing to

3 Up 1. ROH/ NJPW & MSG - I know, that sub header reads like a crazy jumbling of acronyms, however, kudos to Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro Wrestling who sold out Madison Square Garden this week. The first sold out show at MSG by a company other than the WWE. If this isn't evidence of the massive change within the wrestling business in 2018, I'm not sure what it is.  2. Ramon Laureano Throw - That throw was absolutely insane. Just insane. Right on the money.  3. Wayne Rooney - Speaking of insane plays, how about Wayne Rooney continuing to do Wayne Rooney things in MLS with this insane clutch play. The placement on that cross was just crazy.  3 Down 1. Unite the Right Rally - It's still insane to me how these types of rallies are still so common. Especially after Charlottesville last year. But yet, here we are. SMH.  2. Laura Ingraham - I don't even consider some of these talking heads on cable news legit anymore. What bothers me is no

It wasn't long ago that I officially took my heart back from Impact Wrestling (then TNA). It was during this time in which Dixie Carter and crew had been taking the loyalty of it's fans for granted, and really, doing one of the greatest disservices in pro wrestling history when it came to the potential and positioning of the company. Regardless, here we are with yet another chapter of this company (2nd under this new ownership). Yet,  in an intriguing way, this new era is easily my favorite in the company's history since, well,  maybe that 2002-2006 run when it provided an alternative to the mega giant that is Vince and friends.

The other side awaits.

3 Up  1. Randy Moss' Tie - I don't care much for the NFL these days, but I did see the tie that Randy Moss wore for his induction. The tie acknowledged the many black men and women who were killed or died under various circumstances by law enforcement around the country. It's a nice gesture letting the families of those victims know they haven't been forgotten, and it's also one that once again brings to light the message that Kaepernick started. Not the anthem. 2. Jerry Jones Hypocrisy - Speaking of anthems... THIS was so fantastic. And so very true. By the way, remove the hat, Jerry! It's quite disrespectful to the flag and the anthem. Honestly, it's amazing how ridiculous this entire ordeal has gotten. 3. NRA Trolling - So the NRA is looking for money and are claiming they may cease to exist if they don't get the support. Kudos to the many who sent "thoughts and prayers" trolling the notorious organization. In a world where trollin

3 Up  1. Anne Hathaway - You know what's the best weapon against racism? Allyship from the majority group, specifically, yes, white people. And being a white mainstream celebrity isn't too bad, either! Kudos to Anne Hathaway for speaking out on the unfortunate situation of Nia Wilson, and on the privilege at play in our daily lives, and in our society. More importantly, the way such privilege offers different psychological pressures, and ultimately, a different lived experience. A different America. But I think we know this. It's really who chooses to accept it. 2. LeBron James School - Say whatever you want about his basketball legacy, what LeBron has done in the spectrum of social justice, in giving back to his community and offering access for the youth in Ohio is incomparable and immeasurable. I'm a fan of this dude. And yes, I appreciate that he doesn't "just shut up and dribble." 3. Hall of Fame Inductions - Six great ball players went i

Is prior racism forgivable?  It's a loaded question and one that seems to have presented itself in the ever-evolving battle we have in our country. When do we allow and validate a person's change of heart from the the depths of previous discriminatory behavior? The question is an interesting one, especially when blended with the likes of white privilege and an underlying (thick) layer of foundational and systemic racism in this country.  When the stories of Hulk Hogan being reinstated to the WWE and Josh Hader's controversial tweets from his teenage years made their way to the public forefront, it was an interesting dynamic in which left me very curious on how our society would approach the different social issues. I found myself thoroughly intrigued to watch the response, the reaction, and the fallout.  Both men, at one time, regardless of when, stated nasty things. We're not talking about easy shades of ignorance and stereotypes, or even daily micro

Different Angles. Different Summer.