In the city of Portland during the early 90's is when I first remember taking a real interest in sports. It was due to the "Blazermania" that had taken hold of the city due to its NBA franchise making it to the finals several times and being competitive every year. I have fond memories of cheering in front of the TV with a bottle of Martenalli's sparkling apple cider being ready to be opened when we won a playoff game. It was due to those memories that made me love the game of basketball. Recently the team has fell on hard times with the "Jailblazer" years as well as some poor personnel moves. Those times are now over thanks to some good fortune, the old black and red got the #1 pick in the strongest NBA draft in years after having only a 5% chance of landing it. The city is now buzzing with the thought of having a good team next year and a possible championship team in years to come. It truly is amazing the way that a sports franchise can unite a city, especially one that is on the smaller side. Don't believe me? Watch this video:

You would think that they had all won the lottery, which in a way, they did. The funny thing is, I was doing the same thing alone in my house, jumping up and down, yelling, etc.. In fact, my voice was horse for several days after words. Silly? Maybe. But it makes me that much more excited to move back to Portland and be with "my people".

Labels: Portland Trailblazers

As many of you know my family and I are picking up and moving across the country akin to the Joads in the Grapes of Wrath. We are excited about this move on so many levels that I cant even begin. But let me give you one reason that was made apparent by a study that I saw on CNN while playing Mr. Mom this week.

It was a nation wide study that examined the major cities and the politeness of its drivers. The results were hardly surprising and were 100% consistent with my experience. They found that Washington DC was in the top 5 for most unfriendly among places like LA and New York City. But guess what city was found to be the most friendly...a smaller southern city? Nope. A friendly mid western city? Nope. Salt Lake City with all those Mormons? Nah. It was indeed Portland Oregon bringing in the top spot. How do you like them apples?

Now that my thesis and defense are done, its time to get my rock on. So I give you, The Black Keys.

If you dont bob your head to that then you don't have a head.