Are You Kidding Me?

"This season, the Islanders are looking to create an even better Blog Box and are looking to add three established bloggers. If you would like to be one of the newest Isles bloggers, auditions will be held at the 2010 Islanders Draft Party on Friday, June 25 at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

The selected bloggers will then be interviewed by the Islanders communications staff and the winners will be notified.

We are looking for you, so come on out to the 2010 Draft Party and show us what you can do!"

If you can dance, juggle chainsaws, cut DP in half, guess Doug Weight's real age, then you're in!

Kidding aside, you have to imagine that they meant interview rather than audition, right? Or is this another stab from the 'establishment' that bloggers are shaved monkeys on typewriters in their parent's basements?

 "Are You Kidding Me?" – Unveiling the World of Sports' Most Unbelievable Moments

In the realm of sports, the line between the ordinary and the extraordinary is often blurred. Athletes routinely push the boundaries of human achievement, leaving fans and spectators in awe of their talents. This article delves into the thrilling world of sports' most unbelievable moments, where the extraordinary becomes reality. From jaw-dropping plays to heart-stopping comebacks, these moments redefine the limits of human potential.

1. Miracle on Ice (1980):

In the midst of the Cold War, the underdog U.S. Olympic hockey team faced the mighty Soviet Union in Lake Placid, New York. The Soviet team was a juggernaut, having won gold in the past four Olympics. The young American team, comprised of amateur and college players, overcame the odds to defeat the Soviets 4-3. Al Michaels' iconic call, "Do you believe in miracles?" still resonates with sports fans worldwide.

2. The Immaculate Reception (1972):

In an AFC divisional playoff game, the Pittsburgh Steelers trailed the Oakland Raiders by one point with just 22 seconds left. Quarterback Terry Bradshaw launched a desperate pass that ricocheted off a Raiders' defender. Running back Franco Harris miraculously caught the deflection inches above the turf and ran it into the end zone for the game-winning touchdown. This play is etched in NFL history as one of the most improbable and controversial.

3. Michael Jordan's "Flu Game" (1997):

In Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan, playing for the Chicago Bulls, fell ill with flu-like symptoms. Despite his weakened state, Jordan delivered an awe-inspiring performance, scoring 38 points, including a clutch three-pointer in the final minutes, to lead the Bulls to victory over the Utah Jazz. His determination and resilience earned him the nickname "His Airness."

4. The Shot (1989):

In a decisive Game 5 of the first-round playoff series between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Chicago Bulls, Michael Jordan made a gravity-defying jump shot over the outstretched arm of Cavs' defender Craig Ehlo. The buzzer-beater gave the Bulls a 101-100 victory and is one of the most iconic moments in NBA history.

5. Leicester City's Premier League Title (2016):

Leicester City, a club with 5000-to-1 odds to win the Premier League, defied all expectations to secure the title. Led by manager Claudio Ranieri and inspired performances by players like Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez, Leicester's triumph was a testament to the unpredictability and magic of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. What makes a sports moment "unbelievable?"

Unbelievable sports moments are those that defy expectations, challenge the limits of human ability, and capture the imagination of fans. These moments often involve extraordinary feats, incredible comebacks, or historic achievements.

2. Are unbelievable sports moments limited to professional leagues?

No, unbelievable sports moments can happen at any level of competition, from youth sports to amateur leagues and professional organizations. The magic of sports transcends the level of play.

3. How do sports moments impact the broader culture and society?

Unbelievable sports moments often have a significant cultural impact. They can inspire and unite people, instill a sense of pride in a community, and serve as enduring symbols of determination and perseverance.

4. Can unbelievable sports moments be recreated or replicated?

While some aspects of sports moments can be recreated, the spontaneity and emotional intensity of the original moment are often irreplaceable. Unbelievable sports moments are cherished precisely because they are unique and unexpected.

*5. What makes a sports moment unforgettable?

Sports moments become unforgettable when they resonate with people on a deep emotional level. They are etched into the collective memory of fans and are passed down through generations as part of a sport's rich history.

"Are you kidding me?" – this exclamation encapsulates the essence of unbelievable sports moments. From the Miracle on Ice to Michael Jordan's iconic shots, these moments serve as testaments to the limitless potential of human athleticism and determination. They inspire, captivate, and unite us in our shared love for sports.

Unbelievable sports moments transcend the confines of the playing field. They become indelible parts of our culture and serve as reminders that in the world of sports, as in life, anything is possible. As we continue to witness and celebrate these moments, we reaffirm our belief in the magic of sports and the enduring power of the human spirit.

Only On The Isle

The reign of stupidity in Uniondale continued today as the Islanders fired Ted Nolan.

I almost feel bad. Well ... no, not really. It will be all that much easier for the Rangers to beat the Islanders. But still, I mean, seriously: are they trying to lose? First came the dismissal of Neil Smith, and now this??? All Nolan did was keep a pathetic roster competitive and they fired him. Quoting "philosophical differences," Garth Snow made the announcement without having another coach in mind. I think Bozo the Clown would be the perfect candidate because that franchise is just a joke. Charles Wang seems intent on replacing capable personnel with friends of the family, to the detriment of the product on the ice.

Man, I hate the Islanders. This is awesome. Keep it up Fishermen!

 "Only on the Isle: The Unique World of Isle Royale National Park"

Nestled in the northwest corner of Lake Superior, far from the hustle and bustle of city life, lies a remarkable and remote gem of the National Park System: Isle Royale National Park. This isolated island wilderness offers a unique experience that can only be found in one place - Isle Royale. In this article, we will explore the wonders of this remarkable park, from its rugged terrain to its fascinating wildlife, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) about visiting this remote jewel.

Isle Royale: A Hidden Treasure

1. An Isolated Wilderness:

Isle Royale National Park is the least visited national park in the contiguous United States. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the island's remote location has helped preserve its pristine wilderness. Visitors who make the journey are rewarded with a sense of solitude and a true escape from civilization.

2. Rugged Terrain:

The park's landscape is dominated by rugged terrain, with dense forests, rocky ridges, and inland lakes. Hiking trails crisscross the island, providing opportunities for both novice and experienced backpackers to explore its diverse landscapes.

3. Spectacular Wildlife:

Isle Royale is known for its unique predator-prey dynamic between wolves and moose. Researchers have been studying this relationship for decades, providing valuable insights into the ecology of predator-prey interactions. Other wildlife, such as foxes, otters, and beavers, also call the island home.

4. Underwater Wonder:

The waters surrounding Isle Royale are part of the largest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Superior. The park's underwater world is teeming with shipwrecks, diverse fish species, and vibrant coral-like formations called "stony corals," making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I get to Isle Royale?

The most common way to reach Isle Royale is by taking a ferry or charter boat from nearby towns in Michigan or Minnesota. There are also seaplane services available.

2. When is the best time to visit?

The park is open from mid-April through October. The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring offers wildflower blooms, while summer is ideal for hiking and water activities. Fall provides stunning foliage and fewer crowds.

3. Are there accommodations on the island?

Isle Royale offers a range of camping options, from backcountry camping to campgrounds with facilities. There are also a few rustic cabins available for rent.

4. Can I see wolves and moose during my visit?

While sightings are never guaranteed, your best chances of observing wolves and moose are in late summer and early fall. Researchers track their movements, so check with the visitor center for recent sightings.

5. Are there any safety precautions I should take?

Visitors to Isle Royale should be prepared for wilderness conditions. This includes bringing proper gear, packing out all trash, and following Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, be aware of wildlife and practice safe hiking and boating.

6. Can I fish on the island?

Fishing is allowed in accordance with state regulations. Lake Superior offers excellent fishing opportunities, and many inland lakes are stocked with trout.

7. What else is there to do besides hiking and wildlife watching?

Besides hiking and wildlife observation, visitors can explore the historic lighthouses, go boating, kayaking, snorkeling, and even participate in ranger-led programs.

Isle Royale National Park is a unique and remote destination that offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. From its pristine landscapes to its remarkable wildlife, this hidden treasure in Lake Superior is a place like no other. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply seeking solitude in nature, Isle Royale has something exceptional to offer. Plan your visit, prepare for the adventure, and immerse yourself in the wonders of this island paradise.

Killin' Time: Tuesday Night Edition

Henceforth this summer any posts of random observations/news will be called "Killin' Time" because, let's face it - that is all we are doing at this point of the year. There is some hockey news but no hockey games ... and that sucks. So, onto this evening's edition:

*The Rangers made Paul Mara's return official today. Andrew Hutchinson, meanwhile, is leaving Hartford for Tampa Bay, where he will be given a chance to replace some of the departed Dan Boyle's offense from the blueline. Hutch was stellar for the Pack and the Rangers were unable to give him a chance because of the idiotic return waivers that he would have had to pass through. Should Wade Redden stumble and fall - and I am fully expecting him to do just that - then letting Hutch go will have been a mighty mistake. The Rangers could have given him the one-way deal he wanted and signed Jason Smith (who went to Ottawa to replace Redden) instead of Mara and had more stability on the blueline, a better veteran presence in the locker room and a lot more cap room to spend on next summer's stellar crop of free agents.

*The Rangers also let another Hartford player go - Mitch Fritz. Mitch left for the Isles of all teams (traitor) after barely playing last season due to injury. Mitch was a big guy with a big heart and certainly one of the best hockey player bloggers. It would have been nice to see him healthy and playing for the Pack this season but, now that he has joined the enemy, he will just be another oversized goon in the Isles organization to boo.

*While making a mistake in letting Mitch go, the Rangers have possibly made another by bringing Mike Barnett on board as the Senior Advisor to the President and General Manager and Director of U.S. Amateur Scouting. The former agent to Wayne Gretzky did indeed set the ball rolling to respectability in Phoenix through good scouting, but he also made such stellar moves as trading away Daniel Briere and Daymond Langkow, trading for Mike Comrie and signing Oleg Kvasha and a way-past-his-prime Tony Amonte among others. Let's just hope that Glen Sather's signing only enhances the stellar work done by Gordie Clark and the Rangers scouts while doing nothing towards wheeling and dealing. And who knows what this guy is being paid? It surely isn't a pittance and that will come out of our season ticket money.

*Speaking of which, its mid-July, why haven't the Rangers sent out invoices yet? It is annoying not knowing how much next season is going to cost but it does have its good points - the money stays in our accounts longer earning interest for us, rather than the Rangers and the NHL schedule is coming out next week so we will know exactly what we will be paying for ...

*Say it ain't so Stu, say it ain't so! Stu Barnes is considering retiring from the NHL. Now Stu was one of those players who you didn't really know unless he was on your team, and if he was, you loved him. The veteran forward played more than 1,100 games for Dallas, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Florida and Winnipeg. He caught my eye in a tiny little blurb in Newsday back when he was playing in the AHL after scoring a hat trick for Moncton (which I actually saved, as you can see laid over his rookie card on the right). He went on from there to have a solid career in the bigs that included two trips to the Finals but no Cup (damn that Brett Hull). A classy player to watch, he worked hard every shift and did all of the dirty work it takes to win games while even popping up to score a clutch goal or two. It is certainly sad to see the pool of former Jets grow ever smaller in the NHL, and I just wanted to wish him the best of luck should he indeed retire.

*On the topic of goodbyes, Chris Botta signed off from his Point Blank Islanders blog. The p.r. guru for the Isles decided to move on from the Mistake In The Mausoleum and is pretty much leaving behind his nice behind-the-scenes blog. Wherever he goes, whatever he does, he is leaving a solid legacy that included the Blog Box. Happy trails Chris, and know that no one could have made the Isles look good so don't consider your time there a failure.

*A quick return to the Rangers for a second, people are saying that the captain's C should go to Chris Drury next season - and he will likely get it - but here is a underrated candidate: Blair Betts. Bettsy sets a never-say-die standard that the young Rangers would look up to while letting Dru continue to work out of the spotlight he dreads so much.

I miss hockey. Is it September yet??

 "Killin' Time: Tuesday Night Edition - Unwinding and Embracing the Midweek Break"

Tuesday nights often find us in the middle of a hectic workweek, with the weekend still a few days away. It's a time when many people are looking for ways to unwind, relax, and make the most of their evenings. In this article, we'll explore various ways to "kill time" on a Tuesday night, whether you're seeking entertainment, relaxation, or simply a change of pace. We'll also address frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to making the most of weeknight leisure.

Entertainment Options

Movie Night at Home:

Tuesday nights can be an excellent time to catch up on movies or TV shows you've missed. Prepare some popcorn, dim the lights, and create your own cinema experience.

Live Streaming Events:

Many artists, musicians, and content creators host live streams on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Tune in to your favorite streamer or discover new talent.

Gaming Night:

If you're into gaming, organize a game night with friends online or offline. Whether it's video games, board games, or card games, gaming can be a fun way to connect and unwind.

Concerts and Performances:

Check if there are any local concerts or theater performances happening on Tuesday night. Live entertainment can be a great way to break the midweek routine.

Relaxation and Self-Care

Yoga and Meditation:

Engaging in yoga or meditation sessions can help you relax, de-stress, and center yourself. There are many online resources and apps available to guide you through these practices.

Reading Time:

Curling up with a good book is a timeless way to unwind. Whether you prefer fiction, non-fiction, or magazines, reading can transport you to different worlds.

Bubble Bath or Spa Night:

Pamper yourself with a relaxing bubble bath or create an at-home spa experience with face masks, essential oils, and soothing music.

Cooking and Baking:

Experiment with new recipes or bake some delicious treats. Cooking can be a therapeutic and rewarding way to spend your evening.

Exploration and Adventure

Local Exploration:

Use Tuesday night to explore your local area. Visit a nearby park, go for a walk, or discover hidden gems in your city or town.

Stargazing:

If you enjoy astronomy, take advantage of a clear Tuesday night to stargaze. You might even catch a glimpse of a meteor shower or celestial event.

Online Classes and Workshops:

Many websites offer online classes and workshops on a variety of subjects. Learning something new can be an exciting way to spend your evening.

FAQs About Weeknight Leisure

How can I make the most of my limited free time on a weeknight?

To maximize your weeknight leisure time, plan ahead and prioritize activities that genuinely relax and rejuvenate you. Avoid overcommitting to social engagements if you need some alone time.

What if I have work commitments or responsibilities on Tuesday night?

If work or responsibilities encroach on your Tuesday night, try to create designated blocks of time for leisure. Even a short break can help you recharge.

Is it okay to have a leisurely Tuesday night when I have a busy week ahead?

Absolutely! Taking time for self-care and relaxation, especially in the middle of a busy week, can improve your overall well-being and productivity.

How can I switch off from work or daily stress on Tuesday night?

Creating a relaxing environment, engaging in enjoyable activities, and setting boundaries with work-related notifications can help you switch off and unwind.

Tuesday nights don't have to be mundane or stressful. By embracing leisure activities that cater to your interests and well-being, you can turn an ordinary weeknight into a delightful experience. Whether you choose to watch a movie, practice self-care, or embark on a new adventure, the key is to make the most of this midweek break to recharge and find joy in the moment.

A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing

So I am splitting my Monday night experience at the Islanders-Pens game into two posts - the first being this one, on the Islanders Blog Box itself.

As I mentioned, the Islanders were gracious enough to give me a credential and allow me entry into the building, as well as a spot in the box. I managed to not wear a single item of clothing with the Rangers logo on it (quite the task, let me tell you) and I covered up the Rangers stickers on my laptop. I also replaced my usual wallpaper (which I shot myself on opening night) with this (where you couldn't see the bottom line thanks to the Macbook's dock.

I have to say that it is really a wonderful idea with pretty good positioning -- it is on the penalty box side of the ice in the Islanders end so you get a nice view of the ice and the benches. However, the way they shoehorned it into the space behind the lower bowl causes it to have some problems. It is only on a foot-high dais so if there is someone in the row directly in front of you, their head blocks a solid portion of the ice. It would pay to be higher, but at the same time a female blogger - Dee from Seventh Woman - had a bit of trouble to climb up so steps would be nice. I found it best to stand, which is fine with me as I usually stand for much of the Ranger games in the last row of the 300s. But still, when people in the row in front of you stand, you can't see a thing.

Speaking of the female blogger - there were nine seats but just three other writers sitting there. I am not trying to make a joke here, but the Islanders can't give away free seats? Could you imagine the line of writers who would be at the Garden? There was another blogger there who sat in his season ticket seat (Mike from Isles Blogger), but that brings up the point that teams don't really need to give free spots away to passionate fans/bloggers - we go anyway. If the Rangers gave me a free seat to blog, they could lose the $2,200 I pay for my season ticket ... and why would they do that?

But in the case of the Islanders (and the Capitals and other teams with attendance/marketing/coverage problems) I really do think that it is a great way to get more eyes on their team. The writers there are passionate and care about their team - a far cry from the bored beat writers who may or may not show up to every game. It is also a little weird to hear cheering from other writers. After covering sporting events in the past as MSM, I had been used to a quiet (bitter, annoyed) press row but this was a great change.

And after the game we were allowed to go down to the locker room to participate in some interviews - Ted Nolan, Dubi and Sean Bergenheim all spoke. This again brings up a debate on bloggers: are we fans who act like media, or are we fans who act like fans? Basically, do you play it straight or do you ask the burning questions? I played it straight, asking a legit question to Dubi about how he prepares for the games behind all of these kids (no change, just hope they don't relent in the third period). But as a fan, I would have asked what was wrong with his stick as he lost it three times during play (and no teammates gave him theirs - for shame).

But for all of the nitpicking, and for all of the debates that it brings up, the Blog Box really is a great thing, not only for the Islanders but for the sport as well in that it brings the fans even closer to the action. I am very thankful to the Islanders, in particular VP of Media Relations Chris Botta and VP of Communications Josh Bernstein, for the opportunity.

A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing