Goin' Bowling: Illinois is going to Pasadena

We're down to the Bowl Games in this exciting 2007 College Football Season. I have to say that this has been the most exciting and chaotic season I have seen in a while. If you had told me before the season started Illinois and Kansas would be in BCS games, and Notre Dame and Nebraska would be sitting at home, I would have called you crazy.

How crazy is it that Illinois is in the Rose Bowl? Before the victory at the Horseshoe, Illinois was heading towards the Champs Sports Bowl. Now, they are going out to Pasadena for the fifth Rose Bowl in the school's history. Sure they'll probably be beaten by ESPN's favorite college team, but its a victory just to be there.

To those griping about there sneaking in, stop it please. Illinois is #13 in the BCS rankings. Two teams (Missouri and Florida) were ineligible due to the two conference rule. Yeah, Mizzou should have made it ahead of the Jayhawks, but either way, one of them goes elsewhere.

Arizona State has a case, although they were only two ahead of Illinois, and the matchups didn't favor them. It is too bad that the Pac 10 doesn't have a New Year's Day 2nd tier bowl. Instead, the Pac 10 #2 has to go to the Holiday Bowl.

As for the BCS Championship game, I'm not surprised at the result. Ohio State went 11-1, with its only loss to a fellow BCS team. Sure, Georgia is hot right now, but they didn't win their division. Like it or not, that played a role in the polls. As for Virginia Tech, I bet they wish they had the BC game back. USC may be able to beat all comers, but the discussion is moot if they beat STANFORD. Oklahoma should have taken care of business vs. Colorado, and Hawaii has a n argument for (the only unbeaten) and against (weak schedule). Unfortunately for June Jones and Co., the cons outweigh the pros. Beat Georgia convincingly, and maybe the AP will take pity on you.

So to those who got an early Christmas, I wish you good luck. To those relegated to the week before New Year's Day, try to have a good time. And to those who deserve a trip to the Natural Light Toilet Bowl presented by Charmin (Notre Dame vs. Minnesota), better luck next year. Only 18 days until the San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl. I'm literally on pins and needles. *

* Not literally.

You Learn Something New Every Day

Ever wonder what the hell an octothorpe was?

No?

Me neither. At least not until today. Apparently it is a name for the "#" symbol.

Weird, huh? All this time I've known it as the pound sign, and it has a completely different name.

Just goes to show that you learn something new every day.

(This post is brought to you by the owner of this pathetic little blog. He currently has nothing relevant, witty, or meaningful to write. Instead, he'll just keep filling up the page with crap like this.)

An Absolute Waste of your Time.

Q: How do you tell when someone is a big dork?

A: When she sees Gang of Four in a blog comment, and her first thought is about the creators of the GoF Design Patterns. 

Q: How do you tell when they are an even bigger dork? 

A: When said dork realizes the comment meant the corrupt officials of the Harding administration. 

Q: How did this dork become embarrassed? 

A: When she realized that the corrupt Harding administration officials were the "Ohio Gang". This is the Gang of Four.

Congratulations are in order to the Cubs

Way to go Cubs. I thank you for making at least one of my predictions true. Of course now the damage of a collapse is just that much higher.

As for the other Chicago team...Uh...urp...I can't say my prediction was correct.

Bears Watch '07: Ugh...

Last night was the first chance this year for me to watch the Bears play. Opening weekend I was working while they played the Chargers, and the Chiefs game was up against a Ravens game, so it wasn't shown here in Virginia.

After watching them play last night, I wish I had found a reason not to watch the game. It was an all around failure, although I can't help but think that the defense might have been better if the offense had shown up.

Frankly, my faith in this team has been shaken. So far they have looked very ugly in the two losses against San Diego and Dallas. The one victory, against an abysmal Kansas City team, didn't look much better. Grossman has only rarely shown any signs of competence, and Benson is no Thomas Jones.

It pains me to say this, but I think it may be time for the Grossman era in Chicago to come to an end. As it stands, I don't think he'll ever overcome his weaknesses, and will never become a stable option for the team. Its time to put Brian Griese in, and see if the season can be saved.

The 2007 Bears Preview

It is a pretty good time to be a Bears fan. Maybe not as good as the mid 80s, but still much better than the Wannstedt years. The Bears have won two straight division titles, and made a trip to the Super Bowl. They have returned most of their roster from last year, and the NFC looks just as ripe for the taking in 2007 as it did in 2006. This most certainly could be a good year for the "Monsters of the Midway".

If the outlook is so bright, why are so many Bears fan nervous about this year? Some might argue a potentially improved NFC north, a tougher schedule, or the potential distraction of the Lance Briggs saga. However, those all pale in comparison to the uncertainty about Rex Grossman.

Grossman has shown signs that he could be the one to lead the Bears out of the quarterback wilderness. When he plays well, the Bears are a very dangerous and exciting team. His good days make you forget about Henry Burris, Cade McNown, and the other jokers who have occupied that position in recent years. When he is on fire, he makes those who argue for Kyle Orton and/or Brian Griese look foolish.

But those days don't happen every week. There seems to be little middle ground with Rex. Either he is very good, or he is very bad. One week he'll have a 250+yd/3 TD game, and the next will be a 3 INT/2 Fumbles game. You never know what to expect from him.

I can see why some people would want to replace him with Griese and/or Orton. Sure, you probably won't get some of the excitement Grossman brings, but the other two might not make quite so many stupid throws. In addition, they both seem much better at not fumbling the snap, a problem Grossman has that almost is worse than his poor throwing choices.

Hopefully Cedric Benson will have a breakout season and take some of the pressure off of Grossman. For better or worse, Benson is the featured back now. If teams have to plan on stopping Benson, it will open up more opportunities for the passing game. As long as the solid receiver corps stays healthy, the Bears offense could be a powerhouse. Or it could be the SOSB (same old sh***y Bears). Here's hoping it will be the former, rather than the latter.

Predictions

NFC East: Philadelphia (#4), Dallas (#5), Washington, New York
NFC North: Chicago (#1), Minnesota (#6), Green Bay, Detroit
NFC South: New Orleans (#2), Atlanta, Carolina, Tampa Bay
NFC West: Seattle (#3), San Francisco, Arizona, St. Louis

AFC East: New England (#1), Buffalo (#6), New York Jets, Miami
AFC North: Baltimore (#3), Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Cleveland
AFC South: Indianapolis (#2), Tennessee, Jacksonville, Houston
AFC West: San Diego (#4), Denver (#5), Oakland, Kansas City

NFC Wildcard Round: Philadelphia over Dallas, Seattle over Minnesota
AFC Wildcard Round: San Diego over Denver, Baltimore over Buffalo

NFC Divisional Round: Chicago over Philadelphia, New Orleans over Seattle
AFC Divisional Round: New England over San Diego, Indianapolis over Baltimore

NFC Championship: New Orleans over Chicago
AFC Championship: New England over Indianapolis

The Game That Shall Not Be Named (Please don't hurt me NFL Lawyers): New Orleans over New England

Mea Culpa: Delay to Posts

I know I promised a summer movie review and a Bears preview by today, but a major project at work has forced me to delay those items. The Bears preview will be up before they play the Chargers. As for the movie review, I hope to get it done by Sunday night.

I apologize to all of my loyal readers who were eagerly anticipating these posts (Ha!)

The Week Ahead: September 3-9

I hope those of you who had a day off had a happy Labor Day, and my condolences to those who didn't.

Coming up this week will be a final Summer movie review. From Spider-Man 3 to Superbad, I'll share my thoughts on a very enjoyable season.

Also, we're less than a week from the start of the Bears season, which means it's time for my 2007 preview. Expect this on Friday (and be sure to let me know if I don't get it up by then).

Until then I bid you adieu.

Castro, Dead?

Considering this is coming from a political gossip blog which got its source from a celebrity gossip blog, it probably is about as real as the Emancipation Retraction or the Hitler Diaries. However, Castro might actually be dead.

You know, Castro was about to give up a while back. Then that rich Republican, his gay assistant, and some fat oaf flew to Cuba and gave him a 1 trillion dollar bill. We've been regretting it ever since.

(Yeah, if Castro really is dead, something might show up on August Prairie. But for now, due to Simpson's goodness and general lightheartedness, it belongs here.)

Kige Ramsey, Hall of Famer?

To all loyal readers and ships at sea, this is an all points bulletin to head to Deadspin and vote for Kige Ramsey of Youtube Sports to be enshrined in their Hall of Fame. To those of you fortunate souls who have already been introduced to this southern gentleman, you know why I implore you to do your democratic duty. If you have yet to bask in Kige's glory, go here to achieve utter enlightenment. As of this moment, heretics are conspiring to keep Kige out of the HOF, as we are slightly under the 75% mark that ensures enshrinement. This lack of respect and fealty to Kige is a gross disappointment, and must be rectified immediately. Some see Kige as a one trick pony, undeserving of our adulation. Some even have the gall to question his sanity and mental health. However, us true believers no otherwise. In this world full of mediocrity, where sports media is more concerned with "Who's Now" than what is happening, Kige is the exception. His journalistic integrity hearkens back to the days of Edward R. Murrow, and his usage of language evokes memories of Grantland Rice. Although he can usually be found in front of his refrigerator mounted camera, he has oftentimes chosen to change the venue of his spots. Who can forget the great update from the aisles of Walmart, or the memorable report from Titans training camp. Nobody, that's who. Finally, we all remember where we were when he emotionally pleaded with Nicole Ritchie to get help for anorexic. There were few dry eyes in America that day, I can assure you. Nevertheless, Kige kept his head and stood up as a bulwark around which America could rebuild. Kige Ramsey is a good broadcaster. He has much information to share with us. I think that he does an excellent job of reporting news. He is much better than ESPN or Peter King. In conclusion, he is a good reporter. For Quo Vadimus Sports, I'm Amy Tate.

From Start to Finish: West Wing Season 1, Eps 5-7

Season 1, Episode 5: "The Crackpots and These Women"

By now the show is in full swing, mixing the light hearted humor with the poignant drama. This episode introduces Big Block of Cheese Day, and takes us into the somewhat troubled world of Josh Lyman. We meet Zoe Bartlet (she's a girl, Charlie) and find out that Toby is not the kid anybody wants called on in class. C.J. learns about Pluie the migrant wolf, and Sam becomes worried about an unidentified object not from a different planet, but from a different time. And everyone enjoys chili and beer. This episode really sets the course for the classic episodes yet to come.

Season 1, Episode 6: "Mr. Willis of Ohio"

This episode is a personal favorite. Capraesque moments, especially when it comes to government, have a way of melting my oftentimes cynical heart, and the scenes with Mr. Willis are certainly in that vein. When the gang goes out to the bar and some asswipes start hassling Zoe, Charlie has a great moment of integrity, and Josh shows what a panic button is useful for. Towards the end, Jed scares Zoe with a nightmare scenario to convince her to take on secret service protection. This was a well done scene, and is a very accurate foreshadow of later events in the series. The show ends with another great ending, as a Congressman makes his first and likely last vote.

Season 1, Episode 7: "The State Dinner"

It's time for a state dinner at the White House, which means Abbey Bartlet makes her debut on the show. All the while a showdown is happening in Idaho, the Teamsters are preparing to strike, and a hurricane is aiming directly for a battle carrier group. Some great Jed moments here, especially when he basically forces the two sides in the labor dispute to settle. He did this, because he can't change the weather, and he can't operate on a wounded federal agent. The Batak-Portuguese-English mixup was a rather funny moment, although it did highlight the tendency for Sorkin to occasionally play C.J. and Donna off as being "silly women". It is rare for Toby to get his comeuppances, but it happens in this episode. The show ends on a down note, highlighting one of the worst parts of a President's job as he talks to a damaged naval ship in the middle of a hurricane.

From Start to Finish: The West Wing

As I now have all seven seasons of The West Wing on DVD, I am beginning an effort to watch it from start to finish. I intend to watch one episode a day, with more possibly on weekends, until the job is finished.

As some of you readers know from the old days of my MySpace blog, I started a ranking of episodes of the West Wing. I don't believe I ever finished it, and I have no intentions of finishing it now. Instead, I will be posting some thoughts on the episodes I watched.

As I have already started the run, I will make two posts to cover the seven episodes I have already watched. The first set will be "Pilot", "Post Hoc ergo Propter Hoc", "Proportional Response" and "Five Votes Down".

The Bartlet Presidency, a retrospective
w/ bonus coverage of the 2006 Presidential Election

Season 1, Episode 1: "The Pilot"

Compared to other episodes of the show, this one is not a power-house. However, it is an excellent first episode. All of the necessary items in a pilot are here, as the characters are introduced, the stage is set, and the first running story line (Sam's friend with an interesting occupation) is going strong. There is plenty to like in this episode, from the wonderful shot following Leo through the West Wing, to the already strong chemistry between Donna and Josh.

By the time the meeting with Mary Marsh and the other right wingers takes place, the show has already shown flickers of its greatness. However, those flickers pale in comparison to the bright flames that appear when President Bartlet appears. Those last few minutes of the episode really set the tone for the show, and also demonstrate why making Jed a regular cast member was a wise idea by Aaron Sorkin and Co.

Season 1, Episode 2: "Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc"

A solid episode, although it pales in comparison to some of the great ones of the season. The Latin lesson was very helpful, and the Sam makes an ass of himself (SMAH) average stays at 1.000. Other than that, not too much to say about this one.

Season 1, Episode 3: "Proportional Response"

The second part of a two part story arc, this episode has several moments that are really great.
From the introduction of Charlie, to C.J. finding out about Sam's friend, the show really starts to flesh out the character relationships. Above all else, however, is the moment when Leo sets the President straight, explaining the role of a responsible superpower. In this day and age, I can't help but think things might have been better off if G.W. had a Leo to remind him of this.
The ending of this episode is one of the first (of many) truly uplifting conclusions. Yes, Charlie, the feeling doesn't go away.

Season 1, Episode 4: "Five Votes Down"

This episode is one of the least enjoyable episodes of the season. Not that it isn't a good episode, or that it doesn't have some good moments. The biggest downer is that it is a somewhat depressing episode, with the somewhat unsuccessful fight to get a bill passed, and the troubles at the McGarry household . Nevertheless it still has some great moments, such as President Bartlet's trip to the oval office on painkillers, and the Veeps meeting with the country fried representative from Texas. Honestly, that character either should have never existed, or should have been a recurring Blue Dog Democratic foil for the West Wing. There is no middle ground for Representative Tillinghouse.

Journal of the Civs: All Bow to the Apostolic Palace

NOTE: This was originally posted on August Prairie by accident. Obviously, this is a rather superficial post about a computer game I was playing, and belongs on Quo Vadimus.

Saturday, August 11 was a most historic day. The empire of India, led by Asoka the Wise, was declared the victor. The member nations of the Christian religion, gathered together at the Apostolic Palace, voted India winner of all history. Despite the abstention of the voting members representing America and Rome, India won in a landslide.

Some question the fairness of the victory, as it was one by India voting for itself. However, the victory wouldn't have been possible without the control of the former lands of Korea and the Zulu. Won in bloody wars by the conquering heroes of India, these lands tipped the voting in favor of India, and allowed them to take their spot at the forefront of the world.

Critics also site the almost predetermined incompetence of the Zulu and Korean armies, who were far behind India in both technology and skill. "Its almost as if Asoka was an emperor playing against chieftains," American military historian Shelby McPherson declared. Officials for the Asoka administration refused to comment on this criticism.

President Lincoln of America had little to comment on the matter, save for congratulating Asoka and his people on their victory. Augustus, leader of the founding nation of Taoism, said that Christianity had few followers in his empire, but that gladiatorial games would be held in Asoka's honor.

Result: AP Diplomatic Victory
Nation: India
Leader: Asoka
Era: Late Renaissance
Opponents: Korea (defeated), Zululand (defeated), America, Rome
Map: Two Continents, default climate and sea level
Speed: Epic
Difficulty: Chieftain (yeah, yeah, yeah, I know I suck)

Will you Just Get it Over With, Please?

Dear Mr. Bonds,

I am writing you today to ask you to stop messing around, and hit two home runs. Just get it over with, so we don't have to worry about you breaking Hank Aaron's record any more, and we can start watching with anticipation all of those (currently, just A-Rod) who may pass you a few years from now.

Just get it over with, so we can add another mark on the board proving this summer is quite possibly the worst sports summer ever. This story from The Onion may be a joke, but it really isn't that far from the truth. Dog fighting, dirty refs, and tragic deaths have certainly made this summer a season to forget.

Hopefully something will happen to even the score a bit. Who knows, maybe its just the set up to a run by the Cubs. I'm sure they would like to get that monkey off their backs before he hits triple digits.

A look back at my MLB predictions, Part II

Now that the All-Star break has come and gone, it is time to look back at my predictions and how they relate to reality. Today, I'll take a look back at the AL. Remember, all predictions correct, or your money back!

AL East

Boston Red Sox
Predicted: 1st, 97-65
Current: 1st, 56-37


New York Yankees
Predicted: 2nd (WC), 91-71
Current: 2nd, 47-44 8 GB ALE, 7 GB WC

Toronto Blue Jays
Predicted: 3rd, 87-75
Current: 3rd, 45-48 11 GB ALE, 10 GB WC

Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Predicted: 4th, 75-87
Current: 5th, 36-56 19.5 GB ALE, 18.5 GB WC

Baltimore Orioles
Predicted: 5th, 69-93
Current: 4th, 42-51 14 GB ALE, 13 GB WC

Analysis:

Boston/New York is shaping up pretty much as I had expected, and Toronto was in the right position, if not nearly close to the record I had them at. Tampa Bay showed me once again that any optimism on their part is not realistic.

AL Central

Detroit Tigers
Predicted: 1st, 94-68
Current: 1st, 55-36



Chicago White Sox
Predicted: 2nd, 92-70
Current: 4th, 41-51 14.5 GB ALC, 13.5 GB WC

Minnesota Twins
Predicted: 3rd, 84-78
Current: 3rd, 49-44 7 GB ALC, 6 GB WC

Cleveland Indians
Predicted: 4th, 79-83
Current: 2nd, 55-38 1 GB ALC, WC

Kansas City Royals
Predicted: 5th, 60-102
Current: 5th, 40-53 16 GB ALC, 15 GB WC

Analysis:

Hey, I got the Tigers, Twins, and Royals in the right position, didn't I. Yeah, my prediction on the White Sox was terrible, and probably wouldn't have been so high if, you know, I actually did any research in making these predictions. Royals fans can take comfort that they should be able to do better than my 60-102 prediction.

AL West

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Predicted: 1st, 90-72
Current: 1st, 55-37


Texas Rangers
Predicted: 2nd, 81-81
Current: 4th, 41-52 14.5 GB ALW, 14 GB WC

Oakland A's
Predicted: 3rd, 70-92
Current: 3rd, 44-50 12 GB ALW, 11.5 GB WC

Seattle Mariners
Predicted: 4th, 65-97
Current: 2nd, 52-39 2.5 GB ALW, 2 GB WC

Analysis:

Well, I picked the Angels to do well, and the A's are as mediocre as I predicted. The Mariners are a real surprise this year, and the Rangers are once again extending that World Series drought with an anemic 2007 performance.

With the three division leaders predicted correctly, that makes the NL Central the lone incorrect division leader. Here's hoping the Cubs will turn it around and make my prediction correct in that respect. As for the Wild Cards, the Phillies and (especially) the White Sox have some work to do.

Check back in October when these predictions actually mean something.

A look back at my MLB predictions, Part I.

Now that the All-Star break has come and gone, it is time to look back at my predictions and how they relate to reality. Part 1 is the NL, part 2 will be the AL. Remember, all predictions correct

NL East

New York Mets
Predicted: 1st, 94-68
Current: 1st, 51-40


Philadelphia Phillies
Predicted: 2nd (WC), 92-70
Current: 3rd, 46-45 5GB NLE, 4.5 GB WC

Florida Marlins
Predicted: 3rd, 81-81
Current: 4th, 44-48 7.5 GB NLE, 7 GB WC

Atlanta Braves
Predicted: 4th, 79-83
Current: 2nd, 50-42 1.5 GB NLE, 1 GB WC

Washington Nationals
Predicted: 5th, 63-99
Current: 5th, 37-54 14 GB NLE, 13.5 GB WC

Analysis:

Not too bad with the predictions here. Washington is about as bad as predicted, and the Phillies are definitely in the playoff race. NY is leading the division, so I'm 1 for 1 so far on division leaders. The only real problem was Atlanta, who is having a much better season than I predicted.

NL Central

Chicago Cubs
Predicted: 1st, 91-71
Current: 2nd, 47-43 3.5 GB NLC, 3 GB WC


Milwaukee Brewers
Predicted: 2nd, 89-73
Current: 1st, 51-40

St. Louis Cardinals
Predicted: 3rd, 84-78
Current: 3rd, 41-47 8.5 GB NLC, 8 GB WC

Houston Astros
Predicted: 4th, 80-82
Current: 5th, 39-53 12.5 GB NLC, 12 GB WC

Cincinnati Reds
Predicted: 5th, 73-89
Current: 6th, 37-55 14.5 GB NLC, 14 GB WC

Pittsburgh Pirates
Predicted: 6th, 65-97
Current: 4th, 40-51 11 GB NLC, 10.5 GB WC

Analysis:

I was right that the Cubs and the Brewers would be the class of the division. However, the rest of the division is rather wrong. Only one of the six teams are currently in the position I picked them to be. If the Cubs hadn't turned it around after the slow start, this prediction would have been really bad.

NL West

Los Angeles Dodgers
Predicted: 1st, 87-75
Current: 1st, 52-40


San Diego Padres
Predicted: 2nd, 85-77
Current: 2nd, 50-40 1GB NLW, WC

Arizona Diamondbacks
Predicted: 3rd, 81-81
Current: 3rd, 49-44 3.5 GB NLW, 2.5 GB WC

Colorado Rockies
Predicted: 4th, 77-85
Current: 4th, 45-46 6.5 GB NLW, 5.5 GB WC

San Francisco Giants
Predicted: 5th, 75-87
Current: 5th, 38-51 12.5 GB NLW, 11.5 GB WC

Analysis:

The NL West has shaped up pretty much as I had predicted. The Giants are pretty bad, the Rockies are mediocre, and the Diamondbacks, Dodgers, and Padres are fighting for the top spot. The only real problem I had with this division was that they are over-performing my predictions.

All in all, it could have been worse. I predicted two of the three division winners, and got one division entirely correct. Naturally, this analysis is meaningless at this point, as the season is still going.

The A.L. will be coming shortly.

Find the Hidden Mickey in the Ford's Theater Room!

On my vacation back to Illinois in late May, I resolved that I would do the tourist thing and go to Springfield to visit the new Lincoln Museum. While I did enjoy it, and did learn a few new things about the President, it definitely left me with an odd feeling. Not quite disappointment or anger, but not quite admiration or approval either.

This explains my feelings

The whole place seemed rather Disney-fied. From the slick films, to the construction of the exhibits, to the cafeteria with the cutesy food names, it felt like I was in a new Disney theme zone at the Magic Kingdom, HistoryLand, or something of that sort.

Now, this isn't an entirely negative feeling. The museum had some really neat exhibits and artifacts. The life-size recreation of the cabinet room with Lincoln reading the Emancipation Proclamation was awesome, the political cartoon room was awesome, and the recreation of the casket lying in state at the Old Capitol in Springfield almost made you feel like you really were there. It is most definitely a way to introduce the common man to Lincoln, even though there is a little too much deification of the man.

However, I can't help but feel the Disney slickness of the exhibits cheapens the power, and integrity, of the museum somewhat. Also, various rooms of the museum being sponsored by corporations made me a little uneasy, and worries me about a possible precedent being set for our national and state park. Theme-park history is a little dangerous, and can easily slide into something that is neither historical nor particularly entertaining.

In the end, however, I think it is a definite positive, and a fine anchor for the prospective tourism industry in Central Illinois. Lincoln is still one of the dominating figures of our culture, and in this time of political mediocrity, the lessons to be learned from his successes (and failures) are very important.

P.S.: Here is the second article to go with the first one. Too bad they didn't go with the hot stove idea for the Law Office room.

Winter Olympics in Russia?

Looks like the 2014 Winter Olympics have a location: Sochi, Russia. It marks the first time since 1994 that the games in either season have gone to a city I wasn't aware existed. Amazingly, this is the first time the Winter games have ever been held in Russia or the former Soviet Union. This is interesting, as when you think of Russia, you think of winter and also their stellar record in the Winter Olympics. Hopefully it will go better than the last time Russia hosted an Olympics.

It is another sign of Russia's return to relevance on the international stage. Much of this relevance is in part due to Vladimir Putin. Without going too deep (after all, this isn't August Prairie), this is a mixed blessing, as increased economic stability and international relevance has come along with a return to the age old Russian tradition of autocratic control of society.

Nevertheless, it is a major victory for Russia, and a chance for them to show themselves off to the world in 2014. I'm sure a crappy logo and lame anthropomorphic animal mascots will be forthcoming. And in two years, here's hoping the IOC picks Chicago for the 2016 games. At least they have a decent logo.

The Week Ahead: July 2-July 8

Out of the 52 full weeks in a year, there are only a choice few that can be considered truly important. For 2007, nothing can compare to the importance of this upcoming week. Why? I'll tell you why.

What's that you say, the 4th of July? Independence Day is this week? Sweet! I had completely forgotten about that. That just makes the week even better.

Of course, the truly important event taking place this week is the opening of a movie about robots. Not just any robots, mind you, but robots that turn into cars, jets, and other things! Yes, my friends, this is the week that the Transformers movie comes to theaters.

Naturally, this is a landmark event for males of Generation Y, as they fondly look back on their childhoods. I myself had an Optimus Prime when I was little, as well as many other little contraptions that transformed from one thing to another. So even now, at the ripe old age of 25, I still get a little excited seeing some of the ol' metallic gang up on the big screen.

However, the excited is dimmed somewhat by one name being involved with the movie, and that name is Michael Bay. The fact that he was heavily involved in bring Optimus Prime and the gang to the big screen is something that can't be avoided, and something to fear. Anybody who has seen some of his work knows why you should be worried. Heck, there is even a whole song about how crappy one of his movies is.

However, Steven Spielberg is also involved, so that could be a plus. And although that might just mean he threw some money into the pot and little else, it usually means he gave at least some input. Also, ILM was involved with the effects, and that is usually a good thing.

An early check on Rotten Tomatoes seems to show a bunch of positive reviews, so that is a good sign. Of course, the only truly relevant review is your own, and I guess I'll just have to go check it out. Hopefully it will be more than meets the eye!
... ...
(Sorry for that one. I'll show myself out)

NFL Europe : 1991-2007

Quo Vadimus is sad to see that the NFL Europe is no more. Well not sad really, more like mildly disappointed. I remember the heady days of 1991, when it was known as the World League of American Football, and the cool (read: horrible monstrosities of the early 90's) logos graced those awesome Pro Set cards. You can have your "classic" Bears and Packers designs, I'll stick with the Orlando Thunder, thank you very much. That logo just screams football.

Of course, those days are long gone. As of its last season, the league was exclusively a European league, where NFL teams sent their rough prospects to develop. Unfortunately for the league, there weren't enough prospects who developed into stars. For every Kurt Warner, there were many more players like Henry Burris.

This is most assuredly a blow to the reputation of American football abroad. The sport was starting to gain a following in Germany, and there is some interest elsewhere (as shown by the sellout of the game in London). However, without a constant presence of the sport, will it continue to grow in Europe?

Only the passage of time can give us that answer. Until then, we'll just have to do with the great memories of the World Bowl, the awesome uniforms, and...well, not much else.

Dr. Malcom would have a Fit

Ahh!!! Don't let inGen find out about this one.

I guess its kind of cool, in a playing God with horrible consequences yet unseen kind of way. The question is, will Mike Huckabee and Co. make certain their feelings on the rebirth of the Neanderthal? When they get done dreaming about Jack Bauer, of course.

(Oops, that probably should have gone on August Prairie)

A proud moment for EIU

I must congratulate this exemplary student-athlete on his sign-making abilities. He shows what you can expect from the noble students of fair Eastern Illinois University.

Kudos, sir. You have shown that an education at the school built on old swampland doesn't mean low quality. Stuff like this makes me proud of my degree from the academic jewel of East Central Illinois *.

*-Excludes Champaign County

Just when I thought SportsCenter couldn't get any dumber...

...it goes and does something like this. Unlike Lloyd Christmas, however, ESPN does not totally redeem itself with this stunt.

You see, back in the day I loved SportsCenter. I loved watching Charlie Steiner, Dan Patrick, Kenny Mayne, and the rest of the SportsCenter crew. They actually showed highlights, weren't just a giant marketing wing for Disney and their crappy movies, and were genuinely cool. Who doesn't remember the great "This is SportsCenter" TV spots?

Then ESPN became part of the Mouse's evil empire, and everything went to crap. Rich Eisen and Charlie Steiner left, Dan Patrick went off to do his radio show, and Kenny Mayne was relegated to doing comedic bits and horse racing. Stuart Scott has devolved into self-parody territory, alongside Chris Berman (who was already there before ESPN went downhill).

The anchors today aren't very good. ESPN seriously compromises its journalistic integrity by its ownership stake in the Arena Football League, and embarrassed itself with the whole "Bonds on Bonds" debacle. The once great shows, such as Baseball Tonight, have turned into weak shadows of themselves, with morons like John Kruk and Steve Phillips passing as analysts.

Today, ESPN is nothing but the bloated, oversold, corpse of what used to be a cool network. I guess that is what happens when your network hits the mature stage of life; it becomes weak and bland. Without a cool young network challenging it, ESPN hasn't had any reason to change its course. CNNSI (as a network) is a distant memory, and Fox Sports was a joke.

My question is, where the hell is CSC? I mean, there was some worry it would go under a while back, but ever since that Internet millionaire bought it, we haven't heard crap from the channel and its under-dog SportsCenter challenger, Sports Night....

What's that you say? That wasn't real? Only a fictional TV show....

Nevermind...

The Decommissioned Tank: Bears cut Johnson

Well, the Tank Johnson era is done in Chicago. Honestly, it was the right move. The team bent itself backwards for him, and stuck its neck out last year after his troubles with the law. What did he do to repay the team? He got in a car while drunk, and chose to piss away his career. Nobody said that football players were hired for their responsible decision-making skills.

I'll Pass on this Revolution

Apparently, CNN thinks the iPhone is the greatest thing since sliced bread. To me, its just a phone. Yeah, a phone that maybe has some awesome features and the sleek (read expensive) style of Apple, but a phone nonetheless.

Michael Gartenberg disagrees with me though, who said:

"This is the most anticipated phone since Alexander Graham Bell did his."

OK, where do I begin. First off, I don't believe Alexander Graham Bell's phone was anticipated all that much, considering it was the first phone ever. I pretty certain that the Michael Gartenberg equivalent at the New York Tribune was not waiting on pins and needles for the release of Bell's phone.

Secondly, that is a whole lot of hyperbole going on there. I mean, the Northern Atlantic Model 20 was highly anticipated, and was the toast of the town back in 1904.

If the iPhone is the pinnacle of technological innovation, than humanity is in trouble.

The Week Ahead: June 25-July 1

Seeing as it is a Monday, I figure it's time to usher in a new weekly feature here on Quo Vadimus. Thus welcome to "The Week Ahead". I'll be taking a look at what I'm looking forward to, and what I wish wasn't happening this week. So without further adieu, I bring you the first (and given my track record, probably only) edition.

This week marks the end of one of my favorite shows of the year. Yes, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip ends its turbulent and all too short run this Thursday. The episode is appropriately titled "What Kind of Day Has it Been?", which was the name of the season one finale for both The West Wing and Sports Night. Those episodes were exemplary editions of those two shows, and I hope Studio 60 goes out with a bang.

In February, I made a few short remarks about the show, and my feelings haven't changed much since then. Sure, it was one my regular weekly shows, and it did give me some enjoyment. Also, the last batch of episodes have been much better than the rest of the series. However, it still falls short of the feeling I got from watching the other two shows. Nevertheless, I'll be waiting in anticipation for Thursday night.

In other news, changes might be in store for the sorry Chicago White Sox. After getting drubbed over the weekend by a scraggly bunch of hobos from the north side of town, Kenny Williams is starting to get antsy. My how far they have fallen since '04. I wonder if a fire sale is on the horizon.

If the White Sox have any chance of rebounding this year, this week most definitely is one that can help. They play three at the Juice Dome in St. Pete, then three at Kauffman Stadium in KC. By losing these games, they can assure themselves of a seat in the cellar of the AL Central.

This weeks marks the opening of two big summer movies. The first, Ratatouille, is the new Pixar/Disney film. I don't know much about it, other than it is about a Parisian rat that loves gourmet food. Being that it is Pixar, it probably will be pretty decent. To see why Disney bought Pixar, view the piles of crap Disney pushed out during the short period where Disney and Pixar were on the outs.

The other movie, and finalist for the most pointless sequel of all time, is Live Free or Die Hard. Yes, for some reason John McClane is back. I guarantee I will not be seeing this movie in the theaters.

Oh yeah, apparently a disgusting fat turd made a movie about health care or something. Its being released this week as well. Be certain that many facts will be stretched and information by Mr. DFT.

Eh, they're all in line just to see who will win for one week before Mr. Michael Bay and his army of transforming robots come to town next week.

Gettysburg Trip Photos are Up!

Huzzah, the photos from my recent trip to Gettysburg, Antietam, and Shenandoah NP are up. You can visit them here.

I will have a narrative of the trip sometime in the near future.

More to come, I swear!

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. I have a lot to discuss, such as my trip home, my trip to Gettysburg, and the impending end of Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. So stay tuned!

In the name of the Barbaro, the Hoof, and the Holy Silks

From the Gospel of Barbaro, Chapter 14

...Thus Barbaro came forth and said nothing. And the prophets left their careers, families, and homes, and came to Barbaro's stable. The prophets and disciples of Barbaro brought forth their offerings, made of cat-hair covered letters and dance. This was done at the behest of the great whale, who in his eye all can see the rise and fall of human civilization. And all of the pets on their message board wished the great horse well, while talking about the water of the toilet basins and the clawing of the living room curtains. And the great prophet, the one called Dee Mirich brought forth her great gift of inane poetry, and musings on her feline friends. Despite the laminitis, all was good in the world. Affirmed...

You know, I understand that Barbaro's performance at the Kentucky Derby was amazing. And his being put down due to his leg injury was sad, a reminder that a sport might be wrong if the main participant doesn't have a say in his participation. But, in the words of the immortal Gob Bluth: Come On!

The obsession so many people seem to have with this horse is just crazy. ESPN isn't wrong titling their article Church of Barbaro, as it has taken an almost quasi-religious bent. It seems like all at once all of the crazy cat ladies have come out of the woodwork to spread the gospel of his Horsiness.

I'm just worried about the theology of the matter. If Barbaro is our horse savior, then is Joey Porter's dog the AntiBarbaro? Will a separate church of Secretariat sprout up, claiming him as the true Horsiness? Will a great schism occur that will result in a branch of horse protestantism, because of the corruptness of the horse pope and his horse bishops? Where does Sandusky and Molly, my family's two cats, fit into the hierarchy?

I honestly am worried about what will be forgotten and what will be passed down about this crazy decade. In some future history tome, will the founding of Barbaroism, and the great religious war of the Mirichists and the Goshenists that will inevitably follow, overshadow the mess in the Middle East? Only time will tell....

Why The Last Full Measure should be Made

One of my favorite movies of all time is the Civil War epic Gettysburg. I saw it first when TNT showed it back in the mid 90s, and have been a fan ever since. Despite its marathon length, historical inaccuracies (the 20th Maine was not involved in Pickett's Charge), and fake beards, it still is a very good movie.

Which is why I was excited when I first heard that Gods and Generals was being made into a feature film. I was thrilled that unlike Gettysburg, I would be able to actually see this movie in the theaters. When it finally came out, I saw it three times in the theater, partly out of wanting to watch it with family members, and partly out of wanting to support the movie.

Unfortunately, it bombed. It was trashed by most of the critics (although very few did so on its very major technical flaws and instead on its content). The running time was almost four hours, which made it damn near impossible for anybody but the most willing to sit through it. It rarely lasted more than a few weeks in any theater, and was gone before long.

For a long time I wasn't sure what I thought about the movie. There were parts that I absolutely loved, but others that were horrible. After watching the film again a few months ago, I finally came to the conclusion that it was not a great movie. Somewhere in it was a great movie but it was intertwined with a poorly edited and written Lost Cause propaganda film.

My biggest issue with the movie, however, is not with the film itself, but rather what its failure did to the planned third installment. Because of the massive loss he took on Gods and Generals, Ted Turner let the option on The Last Full Measure, and there are no solid plans for this film to ever be made. If it is even made, it will have to be recast, as the actors who portrayed the returning characters from the previous two films are getting too old (especially Jeff Daniels).

The fact that The Last Full Measure might never see the light of day is most unfortunate. In my opinion, it was the strongest of the two Jeff Shaara books, and the one that would be the best for cinematic drama. Also, as it covered about one year of the war instead of two, it would be easier to condense into a film format, and provide a more coherent storyline.

In addition to being a better source than Gods and Generals, The Last Full Measure also is much less divisive. If you take a look back at the reviews of Gods and Generals, you will see a very noticeable divide between the positive reviews and negative reviews. Those on the conservative Southern side of the political spectrum gave favorable reviews, whereas those on the liberal side usually trashed the movie. Anyone who has seen the movie understands where this divide comes from (especially if you have seen the "Bonnie Blue Flag" CSO show, or "A Very Special Confederate Christmas).

With The Last Full Measure, the potential for divide is not as great. The main character of the book, in addition to the standbys Lee and Chamberlain, is Ulysses S. Grant. The book does a good job of portraying this misunderstood hero of the Civil War. Whereas Gods and Generals was focused on Thomas Jackson, it is likely The Last Full Measure would excise some of Chamberlain and Lee storylines in order to form a stronger story around Grant.

This doesn't mean those who value the opinion of their southern forefathers won't get some proud moments. "Lee to the Rear", the stately dignity of Robert E. Lee and his army, and the honorable surrender at Appomattox will all be part of this story. However, this will be counterbalanced by the redemption and payoff of the sacrifice for the Army of the Potomac, an aspect explored in the novel version of Gods and Generals, but almost entirely excised from the movie.

I believe that The Last Full Measure is commercially viable. However, it would need to be done right. The dialogue would need to be much better than Gods and Generals. I believe historical accuracy is important, but not at the expense of the story. This doesn't mean fudging events or characters, but it does mean writing dialogue that doesn't sound like it came from a letter.

In addition, the technical aspects have to be reworked. The films (as I will get to later) should be edited much better than Gods and Generals, and not feel so much like there is something missing that we should be seeing. The visual effects, although stellar in some areas, were seriously lacking in others. Every effects shot should be as good as the Northern Lights scene in Gods and Generals. The beards were better in Gods and Generals, and there were fewer fat old men front and center in the lines of soldiers, but those can still be improved.

The biggest thing that needs to be done is cut the running length. This doesn't mean sacrificing the story, but thinking differently. With solid editing, and a willingness to divide the film into two two hour volumes, the story can still be told excellently.

The Last Full Measure would be released in theaters as two movies. Spaced a few months apart, they would be separated long enough not to cannibalize each other, but short enough to not ruin any momentum the first one might create. The cost would be similar to one Gods and Generals length film, as the two films would be filmed and edited as one film, yet released as two. Once it is released on DVD, it would be offered as one film, with the option of watching each volume separately.

For this project, Ron Maxwell should most definitely return as director. His work on Gettysburg was wonderful, and he had some bright moments in Gods and Generals. However, he shouldn't go anywhere near the script, as it might end up too much like Gods and Generals.

So please, Mr. Turner, Mr. Lucas, Mr. Spielberg, or any other rich old men who can afford to fund a movie, please consider making The Last Full Measure. Movies like have shown that historical movies can be both artistically and financially successful. If executed right, and handled with creativity and intelligence, I am certain that we can see the Union restored, and the promise at the end of Gods and Generals fulfilled.

Some thoughts on the Bulls and the NFL Draft

Congratulations to the Bulls, who finished off Miami Heat on Sunday. As impressive as the sweep was, what did you expect when the Bulls (avg player age: 19.4) played the Heat (avg player age: 76.2) *. Up next is a tussle with the Pistons, in what many consider the real Eastern Conference finals.

In other sports news, I think the NFL might have had a small event over the weekend. I have to admit that I did watch the draft, at least the first eight hours of it. Other than the Brady Quinn saga, it wasn't that interesting. The Bears filled some holes, and looks like they got a steal at tight end. Of course, since Rosenhaus is his agent, who knows if he'll show up to Bourbonnais on time.

Just three months or so until training camp. Gentlemen, let the countdown begin!

* Stats courtesy of the Bureau of Imaginary Statistics...99.5% accuracy or your money back

Thoughts on Virginia Tech

My thoughts on what happened at Virginia Tech are up. I posted them in a separate page from the standard blog, as I felt putting it on the same page as some of the less serious posts might cheapen its message. As the colors of the page are not conducive for printing, I added a button to change the background to plain white if you would like to print the page out.

Changes to Quo Vadimus

As you have noticed, the template and color of Quo Vadimus has changed. This is a temporary change (although the template may be much longer than the colors). It is in remembrance of the students of Virginia Tech. I know at least here in the Hampton Roads area there is an effort for people to wear burnt orange and Chicago maroon colored clothing, the colors of Virginia Tech. As I don't own any clothing of those colors, I felt compelled to do the next best thing.

I'll have some thoughts posted on the events of this week later today.

Thanks a lot, Cubs

Dear Cubs, Thanks a lot. You're really making my predictions look great. Keep up the good work! Sincerely, Amy

Bears schedule is out

The NFL has announced the 2007 regular season schedule, and I am rather happy about it. Looks like they are scheduled for several prime-time and late afternoon games, which drastically increases the chance of me being able to watch their games. The Chargers game is the week one FOX headliner game. The next week, it appears they will be playing the Chiefs in the CBS late game. And in week three, they host Dallas in the NBC game.

As a Bear's fan, I instinctively get wary when so many of their games are in the national spot light. However, two straight years of success, including a large level of success in prime time games last year (Green Bay in week 17 does not count), gives reason not to be worried.

The revelation of the schedule does not alleviate the fact that we still have until September before the games start. Oh well, at least there is baseball to occupy the time.

Currently on The Vermilion Expat

Here are some posts to catch you up on The Vermilion Expat
Great Idea, Poor Execution

The Thin Red Line

Also, don't forget about "Welcome To Danville".

Short Hits: The Gremlins are in Town

I think gremlins have arrived in the Hampton Roads area. On Sunday, my DVD player just stopped recognizing that discs were in it. Also, my cable was out yesterday, and was still out as of this morning. To top it all off, my parking pass for the garage in downtown Norfolk wouldn't work yesterday morning. Fortunately, it seems to be working now.

It's Opening Day

Although the Mets victory over the Cardinals last night was the official start of the 2007 baseball season, today is the traditional start of the season. And even though it isn't special enough these days to warrant a ceremonial pitch from the President, it still is one of the great days in sports.

Opening day is a day of hope. Fans of every team, from the perennial contenders to the Royals and Pirates, can feel optimistic on this day. And even though many of those hopes will be dashed (for the Royals and Pirates it will be on April 3), they can always look on this day as a day of boundless optimism. Yes even Cubs fans can give in to a sense of optimism, feeling that the drought has to end sometime...right?...RIGHT?

Anyway, now it is time for meaningless predictions. I am not a heavy follower of baseball, and even the best prepared prognosticator is wrong sometimes. Just remember that all predictions come with a money-back guarantee.

National League
East
x-New York Mets 94-68
y-Philadelphia Phillies 92-70
Florida Marlins 81-81
Atlanta Braves 79-83
Washington Nationals 63-99

Central
x-Chicago Cubs 91-71
Milwaukee Brewers 89-73
St. Louis Cardinals 84-78
Houston Astros 80-82
Cincinnati Reds 73-89
Pittsburgh Pirates 65-97

West
x-Los Angeles Dodgers 87-75
San Diego Padres 85-77
Arizona Diamondbacks 81-81
Colorado Rockies 77-85
San Francisco Giants 75-87

American League
East
x-Boston Red Sox 97-65
New York Yankees 91-61
Toronto Blue Jays 87-75
Tampa Bay Devil Rays 75-87
Baltimore Orioles 69-93

Central
x-Detroit Tigers 94-68
y-Chicago White Sox 92-70
Minnesota Twins 84-78
Cleveland Indians 79-83
Kansas City Royals 60-102

West
x-Los Angeles Angels of 90-72
Anaheim
Texas Rangers 81-81
Oakland A's 70-92
Seattle Mariners 65-97

Divisional Playoffs
NL
Dodgers over Mets 3-1
Cubs over Phillies 3-2

AL
Red Sox over White Sox 3-2
Angels over Tigers 3-0

LCS
Cubs over Dodgers 4-2
Angels over Red Sox 4-3

World Series
Angels over Cubs 4-3 (Wait til' next year...)

Photo of the Week

Starting today, and continuing every Friday, I will be featuring a Photo of the Week from my collection. In addition to the picture, I will be including a short essay that relates to the picture.

Glacier Point High

There are many places in this world that do not live up to their reputations. Too many times I have been disappointed because works of art, scenic vistas, and other things have failed to reach my expectations. Fortunately, Glacier Point in Yosemite is not one of those places.

Standing thousands of feet above the busy Yosemite valley, Glacier Point is one of the grand treasures of our wonderful National Park system. A visit to Yosemite is simply incomplete without a stop here.

There are many wonderful sites to be seen from Glacier Point. Waterfalls, granite formations, and other wonders are to be found. Above all to be seen from this vantage point is Half-Dome.

A wonder of nature, it is truly a spectacle to behold. Whether standing on the valley floor, at the entrance to the valley, or above the valley at Glacier Point, Half-Dome commands your attention.

Of the sites that all Americans should see in their lifetime, Yosemite surely must be near the top. I feel fortunate that I was able to experience the grandeur of Glacier Point, and look forward to the day when I can return.

Moments in Synergy: Welcome to Danville! is up

Just a quick post to tell you "Welcome to Danville" is up on the Expat. WTD is a snarky and irreverent weekly comic strip about Vermilion County. Expect many more adventures to come with Scotty E. and his trusty sidekick Hicki Vaugen.

Quick Hit on the NCAA tournament

Another first weekend of the NCAA tournament has passed. Wasn't too exciting, really. A few close games, a couple small upsets (Duke lost! Hurrah!), and a tough loss by Illinois. After watching their second half collapse, I am glad I didn't watch any of their games this year.

Oh well, maybe the seeding committee did an excellent job, and we are setting up 12 monumental games next weekend. We shall see. All I know is I have my rooting interest set up: Go Salukis!

What hath Johnny Hart Wrought?

For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed reading comic strips. Whether it was the trio of political cartoons in Newsweek, the page of comics in the Commercial-News, or the Calvin & Hobbes collections my parents owned, I have been a fan of the funny pages.

Back when I was twelve, it was pretty easy to amuse myself, I guess. I read mediocre strips such as Hagar the Horrible and Garfield, and still found them somewhat amusing. I avoided Mary Worth like the plague, and waited in anticipation for the next Calvin and Hobbes.

However, as my tastes grew, I started to notice the amount of crap that was turned out. 90% of the stuff was just the same junk over and over. Beetle Bailey, B.C., Cathy, etc... were the same four or five lousy jokes over and over. Yes, Cathy stresses over clothes, Sarge doesn't like Beetle's laziness, Jesus will defeat all with his army of talking ants, we get it. Could you please retire like Watterson did, and let fresh strips could get a chance to shine?

But it isn't all bad. Get Fuzzy can make me laugh out loud (which is an absolute coup for a comic strip), and...well, that is about it for intentional humor. I think I laughed at a couple of Opus jokes once.

Unintentional humor, however, can be found in droves. SBIG (so bad it's good) strips such as Mary Worth, Rex Morgan, and Judge Parker have plenty of things to laugh at. Apt. 3-G might be an accurate portrayal of the life of three cute single women, if the time was 1879 and the place was Peoria. From the creepiness and lack of reality in For Better or Worse (a once great strip now wallowing in the muck), to the lameness of Spiderman (really, he is literally lame; a brick can stop him these days), there is still much fun to be gleaned from the funny pages. Even Mallard Fill...no wait, that is never funny.

With that, I implore you to check out http://www.joshreads.com. This is a wonderful site, and can give you new enjoyment from the comics section. Also, check out the classics from Larson, Watterson, Schultz, etc... and revel in what a good comic truly is. And do everything in your power to get the evil power of Cathy removed from this mortal coil. She must be stopped, for the sake of our future.

A few quick thoughts on Studio 60

I haven't yet posted anything about Studio 60, despite wanting to since the start of the season. Part of this is because I just haven't gotten around to it, thanks in part to my move. Another is that I am not entirely sure what I think of the show. Therefore I am going to hold off until the end of the season (and the series???) before I make my judgment.

In short, I enjoy the show. However, I don't like it nearly as much as Sports Night and nowhere near as much as The West Wing. It just doesn't have "it", that which is hard to describe, but is easy to experience when it shows up. With the other two shows, Sorkin was able to deliver home run after home run. With Studio 60, however, he seems to be able to load the bases, but not drive in all the runs.

Maybe the show will pick up momentum as it goes along.

We're Home: Quo Vadimus has a new home

Welcome to Quo Vadimus, the official web log of Andrew C. Tate. I'll have the archive of MySpace and MSN Space web log entries up shortly. Until then, you'll just have to hold tight, or check out The Vermilion Expat, a web log started by me and one of my friends focusing on Vermilion County.
Until next time....