Skip to main content

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 5/24/20


3 Up

1. New York Times Cover - Even though front pages aren't "front pages" anymore (who reads traditional newspapers?), the overall presentation of the New York Times piece of all 100,000+ names of those who passed away from COVID-19 this year is powerful - and in many ways needed. In the midst of politics, science, constant news and numbers, the depth and feel of what has truly happened have gone unrecognized. 100,000+ people are dead. Many more are hurt by those deaths. This is not normal, in any way.

2. Class of 2020 - I really feel for the class of 2020, which has had their celebrations and "next step" left in a cloud of smoke. Yet, something tells me this class will be very special for not only their experience but also, how they will utilize it going forward.

3. Charlamage Tha God - His interview stirred up some controversy, but it was an interview that needed to be had. Too often the "black agenda" is not discussed within the national spectrum, or usually asked and discussed from a white lens. He stuck firm on some important issues, and I would love to see some of the same questions directed at our current President as well when it comes time for debates.

3 Down

1. Latin America COVID-19 - It is tough to watch what is now happening in South America, particularly Brazil, and the alarming rise in Coronavirus cases and deaths occurring. They have been projected as nearing their climax in the coming weeks.

2. "You Ain't Black" - Talk about a cluster...you-know-what. It's a common phrase in the black community, however, there is a time and place for everything. Shame on Former Vice President Joe Biden for using it in that context. And really, in a way, yes, taking the black community for granted. But - and it's a big BUT - it's immensely hilarious how suddenly both parties are experts on speaking up for black people and on how they should be disrespected.

3. Lori Laughlin - She received two months in prison (and possibly less time due to COVID), a $150,000 fine (LESS than she paid to get her daughters into USC), and 100 hours of community service. I can't say I'm not surprised, but at the same time, I'm absolutely outraged.

1 We Have to Do Better

1. Hana Kimura - The 22-year-old professional wrestler passed away this week. After an appearance on a reality show, the ridicule and bullying online lead to this. Twitter and all of social media are great, unfortunately, it can be VERY, very nasty. We all have to do better, for ourselves, and each other.

Recently Read

Quick Ponder: Future Self

We always think,  what would we say  to our  younger self? However,  what would  our younger self say  if they met us, today?

Predictions and Wild Guesses for the 2025 MLB Season

Well, after that off-season where the Dodgers deferred enough money to build the Athletics a new ballpark, it's time for the remaining fanbases who don't have Guggenheim money to hope for the best. Even with Opening Day finally here, it's the only time of the year we can actually pretend everyone has a chance, and hope feels, well, somewhat authentic.  White Sox fans, how are we feeling?  As we do every year around these parts, I'm throwing out some predictions and wild guesses for the upcoming MLB 2025 season.  Good luck, White Sox.  --- STANDINGS (WIN) AL EAST  Yankees - 92 Red Sox - 90 Orioles - 88 Rays - 85 Blue Jays - 82 AL CENTRAL Royals - 90 Tigers - 90 Guardians - 88 Twins - 87 White Sox - 65 AL WEST Rangers - 92 Astros - 92 Athletics - 86 Mariners - 85 Angels - 77 NL EAST Phillies - 94 Mets - 92 Braves - 88 Nationals - 78 Marlins - 75 NL CENTRAL Cubs - 88 Brewers - 88 Reds - 87 Pirates - 83 Cardinals - 80 NL WEST Dodgers - 96 Diamondbacks - 90 Padres - ...

Knicks Back in ECF Causing Catharsis

I've certainly shared my emotions and thoughts regarding the New York Knicks on this site over the years. There have been plenty of those to sort through - most of them are rants. Tonight, the New York Knicks ultimately destroyed the Boston Celtics in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals, 119-81. I sat on my couch, afraid to allow myself to feel joy until that final buzzer. As a Knicks fan, I've been through too much to allow myself to do anything else, to make any assumption, until it was final. Until it was confirmed. Until something couldn't fall through...the way we're used to.  Once it was final, it was unreal.  The New York Knicks are in the Eastern Conference Finals. For the first time since 2000.  I was 15 years old the last time that happened. And that was a run with a squad that I consider (still) to be my favorite Knicks team of all-time.  I sat on my couch with all sorts of feelings. My wife was likely trying to understand the moment. My son, exci...