After taking a week off last week MTR is back strong this week with thoughts I’ve had while awaiting the season finale of “Hell’s Kitchen.”

I was off last week while recovering from my trip to Los Angeles, which was great. I had never been to LA and on the trip out there I was thinking I may never get there(I hate airline delays), but I did make it even if it was 10 hours later than expected. LA is great! The weather is amazing and Hollywood and the surrounding area is as bizarre as I expected. I had a wonderful time out there and can’t wait to get back. The only disappointment on the trip was that I never could find Hell’s kitchen and I so wanted my picture taken there.

A lot has happened since my last post including the wonderful draft night trade of the Grizzlies. I have to admit I didn’t think they’d get anything done, but kudos to Chris Wallace and gang for finding a way to get the big deal done, something Jerry West struggled with in his Memphis tenure. I really liked Mike Miller as a player and as a person off the court, so I hate to see him go, but he was an asset that had to be used to get OJ Mayo back, and I couldn’t be more excited to see Mayo in a Grizzlies uniform. To be able to add Mayo while also getting rid of Brian Cardinal’s contract and the terrible Jason Collins, made it worth parting with Miller. Speaking of Miller and Mayo, they were both on the show today and you can check out the interviews on the front page under featured audio.

With Mayo, Mike Conley and Rudy Gay, the Grizzlies have a fantastic young three headed monster that should be fun to watch for years to come. The Grizzlies aren’t going to be a playoff team next season, but they should be much more entertaining to watch. I also would like to see the Grizzlies more active in the free agent market, especially with Josh Smith out there, but they want to save the money for next year. I hope that move pays off.

The thing to remember about Mayo is that this is what he has been groomed for since about the seventh grade. He has been a star since then and all the stops along the way were just steps towards his arrival in the NBA. He should not have any trouble adjusting to the NBA life on or off the court, I think he’ll be very good. Heck, he told us today he’s gotten advice on the adjustment to the NBA from Lebron, Chris Paul, and Dwayne Wade, that’s the basketball community this kid rolls in and that bodes well for his future.

I was asked a lot over the last day about the Brewers getting CC Sabathia and whether, as a Cubs fan, I was worried. I told everyone that, while I thought it was a great move for Milwaukee, I still thought the Cubs were the better team and that they were still targeting Rich Harden as a possible trade target. Well, low and behold, the Cubs wasyed no time in getting a deal done for Harden as they made the move today. In polls of hitters around the American League, Harden’s name has always come up as having some of the best stuff in the game, but he has had injury problems. If he can stay healthy, the Cubs got themselves a steal and a rotation of Carlos Zambrano, Harden, Ryan Dempster and Ted Lilly is pretty nasty come playoff time. With Alfonso Soriano returning soon, I will say again, if they stay healthy, the Cubs will win the NL Central by at least eight games. The other thing I like about Harden over Sabathia is that Harden’s contract includes a team option at $7 million for next year, Sabathia is a free agent after the season who, in all likelihood, will not be back in Milwaukee next season.

I’ve said enough about my feelings on Brett Favre in the past so I won’t get into that current saga. As far as I’m concerned it’s just more of Brett being Brett. It’s ridiculous!

Anyway, have a good week.

I hate ESPN. Don’t you? Let’s think about this: what other network could have its head so far up three cities’ backsides that it can’t navigate its way out?

The three cities being referenced are, of course, Dallas, Boston, and (everybody together now) New York. Being from Negadelphia, I obviously have some biases towards each; the Cowboys, the fans that don’t like their teams until they start to win, and New York is New York.

Now, before I go on about my original subject, let’s discuss each city and its downfalls in order, starting with Dallas.

Dallas sucks. You know it, I know it, everyone knows it. Not only is it wedged in a state whose residents expect credit for producing George W. Bush (not for or against him, but he’s from Connecticut), but it’s also a state more divided than Europe during WWII.

Even more obnoxious is how the Dallas Cowboys were labeled “America’s Team” during the 90’s and early 2000’s. Is this even remotely correct? After a short Google or Wikipedia search, one can discover that “Columbia’s Team” is a more appropriate title. Michael Irvin is the most notable blow user, but four other teammates were also found in possession of cocaine.

And where does Mr. Irvin work now? Oh! I know! On ESPN’s NFL Countdown. Hey, doesn’t Emmitt Smith work there too? Don’t even get me started on how Terrence Newman has been the only NFL player brought in to talk about his team this season.

Now to Boston. Red Sox, Patriots, and Celtics. All teams who are winning pretty regularly, minus the Sox as of late. However, any “fan nation” for which you have to pay to be a member, is 100% b.s.

Anyone in Memphis have to be a Tigers or Grizz fan?! Does anyone, anywhere else have to pay to be a fan? NO! And this whole publicity money making shinanigan didn’t start until AFTER the Red Sox won their first World Series after so many years that your Grandmother was wrinkle free and didn’t need Tupperware to keep her meds straight.

Another reason to hate Boston: Tom Brady and Bill Belichek. Should I continue?

Finally, New York. I throw up a bit in the back of my mouth whenever I think about this city. Mets pull off the most memorable collapse in recent baseball history last year (thanks Willie Randolph!) and can’t win this year after acquiring dominant ace Johan Santana.

Johan plus Pedro. I thought about this during the off season and pretty much chalked up the East to them. But, thanks to a lackluster first half, and a classy dismissal of firing Willie Randolph, the Mets sit in third place in the NL East, keeping above the Washington Nationals.

And, as if another reason is needed, the Yankees. Hank Steinbrenner, Derek Jeter, A-Rod. A loudmouth who doesn’t know when to shut up, a 30 year-old who makes 30 million a year and still wears gloves made by Asian workers, and a dude who cheats on his gorgeous wife with Madonna. End of story.

And, in brief, these are the cities ESPN is obsessed with. As mentioned, Terrence Newman is the only player of any team to come and discuss the upcoming season and, to kill two birds with one stone, a series between the 3rd place Yankees and 2nd place Red Sox was covered more than the true story, the Tampa Bay Rays.

Watch Fox Sports.

What a weekend it was in sports and a great birthday for America.  This week’s BLOG centers around both celebrations.  We’ll start with the sports:

Is swimming the only sport that will be going on in the Olympics?  That’s all I keep seeing!  And how many swimming events are there?  I did enjoy the Dara Torres story- 41 years old, still looking great, and still swimming exceptionally well.  She’ll be participating in her 5^th Olympiad.  Simply amazing! 

Just to remind you- SHE’S 41!  Might register as an all time Cougar!

GO Lolo Jones- my favorite track and field competitor.

It was an incredible weekend in tennis.  On Saturday, the Williams sisters staged their 7^th Grand Slam matchup, with Venus defeating Serena for the second time in seven tries.  The sisters went on to win the doubles title later in the day for their 7^th Grand Slam Title,  Let’s review the numbers- Venus has 16 Grand Slam victories (5 Wimbledon, 2 US Opens, 7 Doubles, 2 Mixed Doubles).  Serena has 17 Grand Slam Titles (2 Wimbledon, 3 Australian Opens, French Open, 2 US Opens, 7 Doubles, 2 Mixed Doubles).  That’s 33 Grand Slam Titles between the two!  WOW!

As for the men, it was the best final I have ever seen.  Heck, when John McEnroe and Bud Collins both say the same thing, I feel pretty confident saying it.  It was great tennis and it has developed a great rivalry that the sport desperately needs.  It was great that Rafael Nadal finally broke through at Wimbledon.  It would be just as nice to see Roger Federer do the same at the French Open.  Plus, for those complaining about the length of the championship, pipe down!  It was riveting stuff with plenty of drama.  Wimbledon is played out the way all sports should be played out- with a winner determined by playing the game.  It happens in hockey, football, baseball, golf, and every other sport except for soccer.  To determine a champion in the sports biggest finale by a shootout is ridiculous.  That’s why soccer is still awful to watch.  You play 90 minutes of the great game to finish with a shootout?  It makes no sense.  It’s like the Super Bowl being determined by a field goal contest, or baseball with a homerun derby, or hockey with a shootout, or tennis with a serve contest, or golf with a putting contest.  Sorry soccer fans, your sports still sucks!

John McEnroe is a terrific analyst.  His insight into the game and the individual players is terrific.

The replay in tennis is crazy.  It drives me nuts to see the computer generated replay.  It’s like football and basketball replay being determined by XBOX simulations.  Why can’t they have the BizHub tennis vision like they have for swings in golf?  That thing is remarkable.

So, Tim Thompson is going to stop helping the kids, which was his dream after “stepping down” as a high school football coach.  Now he says he wants to return to coaching next year at the college level?  He was a horrible cheater in high school!  What college wants to take on that responsibility?  Good luck Tim.  I’m sure he’ll weasel his way into some job before getting fired for unethical conduct.

Ted Lilly of the Cubs is the ultimate definition of “Crafty Lefty”.

July 4^th was an exciting holiday again.  It made me think of my top 5 American Songs- with America, American, or USA in the title.  Here’s my list:

1. America the Beautiful (Ray Charles)
2. God Bless America (Celine Dion or Kate Smith)
3. Coming To America (Neil Diamond)
4. American Girl (Tom Petty)
5. Proud to be an American (Lee Greenwood)

That is probably too low for Greenwood, but I love that Tom Petty song!

As far as the fireworks were concerned, I watched the Memphis Mud Island display on the river Friday night.  It was pretty spectacular.  One thing we had that the other great displays around the country didn’t have was a tic-tac-toe firework.  It was a great touch.

The Boston Pops celebration was the best that I watched.  The music fit the fireworks to perfection.  Their highlight was a big smiley face firework which was pretty special.

The New York Macy’s celebration was very good, and grand, but the presentation wasn’t as good as Boston.  Their highlight was a filled half circle firework.  I had never seen that one before.

CBS had Craig Ferguson hosting their celebration.  Why?  I can’t believe the man is still on the air.  For those who don’t know, he hosts the late night show on CBS.

We had a mishap in our own celebration Friday night when my face almost got blown off by an M80 Blackjack.  Thanks to World Renowned Chef and the Executive Chef at FedExForum, Mark the Chef, I faced that Blackjack square in the explosion.  It also didn’t help that I had fallen down and rolled right towards it.  But from my youth, I remembered to tuck and roll, which led me to safety!

While being off on Friday the 4^th was nice, the television selection was putrid.  At one point in the afternoon, I had to choose from the following: Norbit, Galaxy Quest, House Party, Hot Shots, The Hot Dog Eating Contest, Jerry Springer (Midget Madness), Thursday’s Tennis, Popeye the Movie, Psychic Kids, and replays of Thursday’s Olympic Swimming Trials.  What a dilemma!  I chose to get a few movies on demand for the weekend:

-          Semi-Pro (very good, but like most Will Ferrell movies, I need to see it again to love it)

-          Strange Wilderness (very funny parts- good to watch late at night)

-          Super High Me (interesting documentary with comedian Doug Benson)

-          Untraceable (DO NOT watch late at night or with a significant other, unless you DO want her to be scared.  Very good movie)

WEEKLY DISH

Ex-Nebraska star Peter lost half-million on drugs and girls

Former Nebraska Husker Jason Peter asked how much money he lost while addicted to drugs: “I’m not a guy who gets on a computer every day and checks. It’s at least, through all the hookers and all the drugs, at least half a million dollars. It could be close to a million. I’m paying for $500 or $1,000 worth of cocaine or heroin at one time. For some of the girls, I could use my credit card.” – Omaha World-Herald

Save the Snakes!

Pamela Anderson, honorary PETA director, just auctioned off her 2000 Dodge Viper RT/10 for $65,000 in order to help save snakes. The money from the sale will raise awareness about the inhumane treatment of snakes.

More Pam- Is Jessica Simpson a Skank?

While some think Jessica Simpson’s Real Girls Eat Meat T-shirt was intended as a jab at Tony Romo’s veggie-loving ex, Carrie Underwood, it’s Pamela Anderson who’s angry. She spoke to an Australian radio show about Jess’s fashion choice and didn’t hold back. “I think she is a bitch and whore,” Pam said. As for the shirt, “Actually, I don’t know if she was talking about food or men.”

Pete Wentz talks sexual rebellion
Father-to-be Pete Wentz is comfortable kissing and telling about the ones who came before his new wife Ashlee Simpson, especially the guys. In an interview with Out magazine, the Fall Out Boy bassist discussed his possible bisexuality. “When I said that I make out with dudes, there was a slight sense of sexual rebellion in that.” Pete credits his earliest “experiments” to teenage dares.” He said he hasn’t shared a same-sex kiss in the last seven years.

Haysbert thinks his ‘24’ role helped Obama

Dennis Haysbert likes to believe his portrayal as the first African-American U.S. president on Fox’s “24” may have helped pave the way for Barack Obama.

“If anything, my portrayal of David Palmer, I think, may have helped open the eyes of the American people,” said the actor.

Eddie Murphy says no more movies
“Meet Dave” might be Eddie Murphy’s last big-screen role. The comedian told “Extra,” “I have close to 50 movies and it’s like, why am I in the movies? I’ve done that part now. I’ll go back to the stage and do stand-up.”

Venezuela TV punished for airing ‘Simpsons’

The Associated Press- Venezuelan regulators are forcing a local TV station to show public service announcements as punishment for broadcasting “The Simpsons” during a time slot reserved for children’s programs. The channel yanked the animated hit from its lineup in April after regulators said its 11 a.m. showing violated broadcast rules intended to protect young viewers. “The Simpsons” returned to the air at night, and was replaced in the morning with “Baywatch Hawaii.”

Evert and Norman Hitched in Bahamas

Tennis star Chris Evert and golfer Greg Norman said “I do” in an island ceremony in the Bahamas last weekend. The 53-year-old pair celebrated their nuptials with a sunset wedding in front of 140 guests.

Arguably the best looking 50+ folks in the world!

Madonna and A-Rod?

The next issue of OK! Magazine contains a story that claims Alex Rodriguez and Madonna are (maybe) having an affair. OK! has learned the pop superstar and baseball great have been hanging out for months, as her relationship with her hubby [Guy Ritchie] fizzled. Madonna has denied the rumors. Mr. and Mrs. Rodriguez are expected to file for divorce on Monday. Cynthia Rodriguez, reportedly, has been “staying” with Lenny Kravitz this week in Paris.

Driving and Talking Banned

As of Tuesday, it is illegal in California to drive and talk on a cell phone without a hands-free device.

Fans are asked to treat Chiefs games like bowling matches

Yahoo.com- The Kansas City Chiefs have a “Fan Code of Conduct,” which is essentially a list of rules that fans have to follow when they’re attending a game at Arrowhead.

Standing and obstructing the view of other fans is number 2 on the list. The Chiefs also have set up a text-messaging system that allows fans to report the situation to the powers-that-be. Maybe this is only the policy until Brodie Croyle improved or is replaced.

Birmingham Alabama wants 2020 Summer Games

The mayor of Birmingham, Ala., Larry Langford, is ready to throw the city’s hat in the ring. Langford has started to put together a plan that is designed to interest the International Olympic Committee: A domed stadium plan in Birmingham has been kicked around since 1998, but voters have already turned the proposal down. Langford still wants one, though, and the chance to get the Olympics has put the issue back on the radar. The city is making an assessment of what facilities it would have to build or renovate to bring Birmingham up to Olympic standard. – NY Sun

John Daly hits ball of 24-ounce can of beer

On the road to nowhere with significance in his rearview mirror, John Daly made a pit stop last week. He set golf back 100 years in a Buick Open pro-am. With partner Kid Rock dressed in bib overalls and a white T-shirt, Daly wowed the crowd by hitting his ball off a full 24-ounce can of beer. The crowd chanted his name as Daly blasted his Bud ball about 300 yards. Rock used a beer can to bank in a birdie putt. – Dallas Morning News

Birthdays this past week: Mike Tyson (42), Pam Anderson (41- and still amazing fake or not), Liv Tyler (31), Jamie Farr (74), Deborah Harry (63), Dan Aykroyd (56), Carl Lewis (47), Lindsay Lohan (22- she could use a man like me to straighten her out.  I volunteer.), Richard Petty (71), Jose Canseco (44), Tom Cruise (46), Montel Williams (52), Jaime Pressley (31- very hot), Geraldo Rivera (65), George Steinbrenner (78), Morganna the Kissing Bandit (61), Al Davis (79), Huey Lewis (58- not much left in the pipes. “Starred” in PBS’ 4^th of July celebration), Fred Dryer (62), Merv Griffin (83), Nancy Reagan (87), Sylvester Stallone (A staggering 62! Stop making Rambo and Rocky films- you’re not fooling anyone!)

There’s plenty happening this week in Tunica.  For a complete list of events and attractions in Tunica, Mississippi, click on the link below.  Get easy access to the casino’s, golf courses, and all other entertainment.

http://www.tunicamiss.com/

Here’s a sneak peak of what’s coming up this week in Tunica:

Mark September 13^th on your calendar!  Ron White will be performing at Harrah’s that night and you don’t want to miss “Tater Salad”.

Don’t forget Mid-South Golfer the Radio show live in Tuinca this week at Tunica National Golf and Tennis Club from 3-4pm.  The Sports Bar follows from Tunica National from 4-6pm. 

Join us for the 3 Person Scramble Thursday at 5:15pm.  Also, Friday night, Tunica National will host a 4 person Glow-in-the-Dark Scramble.  If you’ve never done it, it’s a must.  You’ll get dinner, drinks, glow in the dark balls, and a whole lot of fun for one low price.  Just call 866-TEE-OFF1 for more information or go online at www.tunicanational.com.  See you there. 

Talk to y’all this week.

–Will’s Top 5 Dishes in Memphis: I’ve been toying with writing this for a while, because I love to eat. After much thought and consideration, these are my favorite things to eat at various restaurants in Memphis. I think it merits mentioning that I by no means have eaten at all of the restaurants in Memphis, and am more than open to readers’ suggestions about other dishes that I need to eat.

5. Huey’s Cheese Fries: Steak fries covered in melted cheese and bacon, with green onions on top (although I prefer no onions), with two sides of ranch. Will literally stop your heart or make you feel like you’ve gained 100 pounds just by eating them, but I will never take a trip to Huey’s again without getting these. Just absolutely amazing.

4. Crawfish Mac and Cheese from Cafe 61: Cafe 61 is one of the most underappreciated restaurants in the city of Memphis. It’s located on Second St. right across from the Peabody, and it is delicious. And the best thing on the menu is a side, the Crawfish mac and cheese. Thank you, Chef Derk Meitzler, for combining two of my favorite things in one dish.

3. The Hawaiian Ribeye at Houston’s: I don’t know what it’s marinated in, although I think it is some form of pineapple and something else. Whatever it is, it’s the best steak in Memphis not cooked by my father on his grill.

2. New Orleans Pasta at the Half Shell: Bowtie pasta with cajun cream sauce, with red peppers, crawfish, Andouille sausage, broccoli, and Cajun chicken with a roll on the side. Simply amazing. My favorite pasta. Ever. And I love pasta.

1. The Seafood Crepe at Cafe 1912: This one went down to the wire. Cafe 1912 is on Cooper at Peabody. Now I admit a bias on this, because one of my best friends is a waitress there. The seafood crepe is a French crepe with scallops and shrimp inside, with cream sauce. If you haven’t figured it out yet, I like French and Cajun food. And this is the best. Heavy enough and rich enough to fill you up, yet light enough to be healthy. Tremendous.

–As I sit here writing this, the Cobra has walked in. Cobra, for religious reasons, could not eat a single dish on my list, unless he got the Huey’s cheese fries without bacon. Bacon is essential. So here are Cobra’s Top 5 Non-Meat Dishes in Memphis:

5. Tilapia at Cafe Toscana

4. Salmon at Irling Jensen’s

3. Salmon Pasta with Grilled vegetables (not the actual name) at Ronnie Grisanti’s

2. Salmon at Ruth’s Chris (the man apparently likes salmon)

1. Cheese Pizza with onions at Pete and Sam’s

So there you go.

Not wanting to be left out, Peter Edmiston has decided to check in with his list. Now, Peter is a bit of a Buffalo chicken lover…in fact, he could eat it every meal and I wouldn’t be surprised. But he surprised me a bit with this list.

Peter’s Top 5 Dishes in Memphis (or thereabouts):

5. Muay Thai Beef at Thai Bistro: “Newish restaurant in the Dirty Dova doing some nice things. Got to be the most flavorful beef you’ll ever eat.” Not to be confused with Muay Thai kickboxing.

4. Filet Mignon at Napa Cafe: “Except for this beef. This beef is incredibly well cooked, and if you haven’t taken your wife or girlfriend to the wine cellar, shame on you. Action will follow.”

3. Jambalaya Pasta at Pearl’s Oyster House: “There are so many different flavors in this dish it’s mind-blowing. But they all work together beautifully. Don’t plan on eating anything the day after. It’s rich. Really rich.”

2. Big John Burger at Big John’s Shake Shack in Marion, Arkansas (!!!!!!!???): “I don’t think Will expected anything from Marion. This is the best burger in the Mid-South, bar none. This place does so much business, they can close at 7 every night. It’s like…just incredible. Crazy good.”

1. Lamb Meatballs/Garlic Naan at Bombay House: “I could eat a million of these things. The tomato and butter sauce the meatballs are served in is extraordinarily flavorful…but the trick is to take the garlic naan (amazing Indian flat bread) and sop it in the sauce after you eat the meatballs. Just a beautiful dream.”

We’re still waiting on the rest of the Sports 56 staff’s list, although I’m sure Mr. B’s, Mortimer’s, and Itta Bena will be prominently featured. And Corky’s.

–Please, you people (as Jerry West would say), be safe this holiday weekend. Don’t boat or drive drunk.

So by now you have likely heard the rumblings that Brett Favre may want back in the NFL. I should not be surprised by this move having been repeatedly ridiculed by my radio partner Eli Savoie for actually believing Favre was truely serious about ending his career. Now comes word that upon the urging of family members he has an “itch” to play again.

Call me simple for actually believing someone’s word, but this is pathetic. I know everyone has the right to change their mind, but this news can end up being a real bad thing. Think about Favre’s successor Aaron Rodgers who is ready to step in and show the Green Bay Packers that he is quite capable of leading the team. Think of his kids who get Daddy back full time, only to discover dad’s got better things to do. (Let’s remember this is not something he’s doing for the money).

My stance has always been once you retire, you stay retired. Now the meaning of the word has become diluted. Athletes today almost feel a need to retire and return at least once. Reportedly Favre has spoken with Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy but not beyond the preliminary stage. A team spokesperson said the Packers would be reluctant to open the door for Favre because he retired for the right reasons. They also probably feel his return could rock the boat, and who knows what it would do to retard the growth of Rodgers. In addition, Favre’s agent says as far as he is concerned the future hall of famer is retired, unless he hears differently.

The bottom line is I like all that Favre stands for……..He’s dedicated to his craft, he’s a team player with a capital “T”, and he’s a very good family man. Now it’s time for the legend to conclude. A return may look good on the surface, but likely will prove to be a mistake. Remember Michael Jordan’s return?

A bit of advice, gentlemen: never try to pick up a girl like this. If she doesn’t slap you, I’m sure someone nearby will.

I mean, does this guy really think he’s going to pick up a girl like this? Even Ed Lane isn’t brazen enough to attempt this kind of a pick-up.

I counted at least 54 things wrong in the first sentence. See how well you can do. It’s like Highlights for Kids all over again!

Could we please stop talking about Chad Johnson? I’m sitting here right now listening ‘Ocho Cinco’ proclaim that he loves Cincinnati and its fans. He goes on to say that it is perfect, but is tired about hearing coach Marvin Lewis give the “same speech every year about how we’re going to get to the big dance.”

Chad is a great player. He’s incredible. His 343 first down catches top even Holt.

The problem is, he’s mentally challenged. Chad can’t seem to figure out his own story, much less the business that is professional sports, which make it even more painful to listen to him run his mouth.

What happened to the glory days when athletes took care of this type of business behind closed doors? I know that players back to Ruth would complain about their contracts, but it was done with class.

Maybe the problem isn’t the players, but their agents who want to be in the spotlight. Johnson, like many other loud-mouthed athletes, are represented by none other than Drew Rosenhaus. Could their be a bigger waste of flesh out there? The man has done nothing but stir up controversy.

Some people just need to be shut up. Where does this cycle of inflated egos begin? Is it the athlete’s fault? If so, is it because of their up-bringing or because of the fans?

Or is it really the agent’s doing this behind the scenes? Maybe they’re so insecure because they never had the talent to play in any of the major leagues, this is the only way they figure they can get into the limelight.

Either way, this is getting ridiculous. Something needs to break, and hopefully it’s the jaw bone of every athlete who doesn’t appreciate what he or she has. There are plenty of people who would love a tenth of that 3 million dollar/year contract.

Shut up and play.

Congrats to Fresno State.

Well, I guess I’ll give my two cents on the draft. 

First off, I want to talk about Mike Miller.  I consider Mike a friend, and arguably the best ambassador of basketball for this city that the Grizzlies have ever had.  His dedication to give back has made Mike and his family special people in Memphis who will be sorely missed.  He gave his body every night, and effort every night, whether the Grizzlies were winning or losing.  He was always entertaining to be around and was a great teammate.  Just like Shane Battier, it’s tough to see him go.  I wish him the best and the Timberwolves will soon see what a terrific asset they have acquired for the team and the community.  I’m looking forward to Mike’s golf tournament on July 12^th at Tunica National.

For more information, you can go to Mike’s website at www.mikemiller33.com, or call Dave at 678-522-6881.  It should be a great event again this year.

Now to the flip side of the deal.  I love it.  I think the Grizzlies ended up with a potential superstar to go along with a guy I believe is already close to being a superstar in Rudy Gay.  OJ Mayo has been destined for the NBA since 7^th grade.  I believe he’ll live up to the hype.  He’s been a professional and has handled himself as a professional for many years already.  A lot of people think he’ll leave after his rookie contract.  I disagree.  He might, but if the Grizzlies are a winning organization within three years, that changes everything.  Potentially, the Grizzlies could have the best 1-2-3 combination in the league in three years.  I also agree with Will Askew who says they might already have the most athletic 2-3 combo in the NBA.  This is how you rebuild.  The center position is still a question mark.  Can Darko get more consistent?  What does Marc Gasol bring to the table?  We’ll have to wait and see.  If they can be solid in the middle, Hakim Warrick and Darrell Arthur won’t hurt you as much at power forward.  It’s still a position to continue looking for improvement, but they can get by for now.  Who knows, maybe the Grizzlies will address that need in free agency. 

The hope for Grizzlies fans needs to be that the Grizz are last year’s Portland.  And in three years, the hope is that they are last year’s New Orleans.  I think they are on the way.

I can’t believe the “experts” continue to say that Michael Heisley is dumping salary.  He’s been at or above the cap every year.  He has forked out millions of dollars for front office personnel and coaches.  Plus, he’s let Chris Wallace be active.  You can’t question Wallace’s effort so far.  He addressed each Grizzlies need in his first off season, and now he made a big splash in year two.  

Another thing about the doubters- how can you question a deal that got rid of Brian Cardinal and “The Bagel” Jason Collins in the same deal?  UNBELIEVABLE!

I want to buy a Mayo jersey today #32!

Other thoughts:

The Beefeater sandwich at the Blue Monkey is one of the top sandwiches in town.

When does the WNBA start?

I believe Dumb and Dumber is the most overrated movie EVER and I can’t be convinced otherwise.  I also watched a movie entitled Mama’s Boy this weekend, and it was clearly the worst movie I have ever seen.  What do these two movies have in common?  Jeff Daniels.  He is awful.  He’ll take any role that is offered and Mama’s Boy was clearly an example of that.  In Dumb and Dumber, the guys are so dumb that it’s not even funny.  The only time I laughed is when Jim Carrey yells out, “And our pets’ heads are falling off.”  Another actor in Dumb and Dumber which makes it terrible is perhaps the worst actor ever- Mike Starr.  He played Joe “Mental” Mentaliano. 

He’s been in a ton of films and television shows and has never impressed.  He’s always supposed to be a tough guy, but he’s also been a wuss in so many movies that you can’t take him seriously.

Is Kenny Perry really the second best golfer on the planet right now?  WOW!  The PGA’s in trouble.

Just stop believing anything Chad Ford writes or spews from his mouth!

Weekly Dish

Rap, rock, classical - music to Obama’s ears

The Associated Press- Bob Dylan. Yo-Yo Ma. Sheryl Crow. Jay-Z. They’re artists featured on Barack Obama’s iPod. “I have pretty eclectic tastes,” the Democratic presidential contender said to Rolling Stone.  Growing up in the ’70s, Obama said, he listened to the Rolling Stones, Elton John and Earth, Wind & Fire. Stevie Wonder is his musical hero from the era.

Former ‘Idol’ champ Ruben Studdard to wed

The Associated Press- He won the affection of millions of people on “American Idol,” but, Ruben Studdard gave his heart to one woman.

A representative for the former “Idol” confirmed to The Associated Press that Studdard had a Saturday wedding.

Tidbits: Newlywed woes for Mariah and Nick

MSNBC- They’re not quite two months into their marriage, but Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon already face trouble, reports Life & Style. Sources tell the magazine that Mariah’s diva demands could cause the pair to split. The insider claims that the reason behind that gloom-and-doom prediction is Nick’s need to do everything for his diva bride. While Mariah likes being waited on hand and foot, that routine won’t work in the long run. “Mariah’s assistants and friends call him ‘Whipped Nick’ behind his back.”

Boy George denied U.S. visa for planned tour

MSNBC News Services- Culture Club’s Boy George has been forced to cancel his North American summer tour after U.S. authorities refused to issue him a visa, citing looming legal issues overseas. George’s tour was scheduled to begin July 11. He is facing a trial in November in London for something that happened in April last year. George was arrested after a 28-year-old male escort from Norway accused the singer of false imprisonment and assault

Keira Goes Topless

ExtraTV- Keira Knightley is baring quite a bit in her new film “The Edge of Love,” and the slender starlet says she has no problem showing off her body. “I always bare my breasts,” she said at the Edinburgh Film Festival, reports People magazine.

Police Arrest Soccer Player After Referee Bitten On Face

Police said a 28-year-old soccer player got ejected from a game then bit the ref in the face, leaving an ugly wound. Authorities made an arrest in the alleged assault.

New Castle County police said Rannord A. Jones, of Freedom Trail in New Castle, fiercely argued with the referee and then allegedly attacked him, biting through his chin.

Jones said nothing as he turned himself in to police. He is charged with felony assault and threatening to kill the referee.

Greg Norman and Chris Evert getting married this weekend?

Golf great Greg “The Shark” Norman and tennis star Chris Evert got married, six months after they got engaged. It is the second marriage for both.

Tim McGraw Lays Country Smackdown on Fan

TMZ Staff- Don’t mess around at a Tim McGraw concert — or he’ll pull your ass out of the crowd and have you tossed out! Tim spotted an over-sized, rowdy fan in the front row, proceeded to grab a hold of him, pulled him on stage and threatened to punch him!
Tim’s rep tells us “This overly aggressive fan attacked a female fan and Tim witnessed this incident. Tim called for security, but when they could not respond quick enough Tim and several crew members removed the fan from the audience where he was then turned over to the local authorities.”

Rodman to Judge: I Guess I Smacked My GF

TMZ Staff- Dennis Rodman pleaded “no contest” to spousal battery in an L.A. court.
In exchange for his plea, the Worm was sentenced to 36 months of probation, 45 days of roadside graffiti removal, one year of domestic violence counseling, and six months of drug and alcohol treatment. The judge warned Dennis about acting like a fool in the future, telling him, “If I hear or see in the news that you have committed any more crimes — you will go to jail.”

Mini-Me Sex Tape: Avert Your Eyes!

TMZ Staff- Mini-Me Verne Troyer is in a sex tape shot with his former live-in girlfriend at the couple’s apartment. A third party has snatched up the tape and although no deal has been made, we hear dealer Kevin Blatt, who brokered the deal for Paris’ video, is entertaining a $100k offer from SugarDVD to distribute the nastiness.

MSNBC- Troyer successfully shut down the distribution of the sex tape for now.

TMZ posted a 25-second snipped of the video, but pulled the clips down after a federal judge granted a temporary restraining order requested by Troyer’s attorneys.

The ruling also prevents any attempt by a porn distributor from taking orders for the full 50-minute video, and keeps TMZ from broadcasting any more clips. Troyer’s lawsuit also seeks $20 million in damages and the return of all copies of the tape.  WHAT PSYCHO WANTS TO SEE THIS TAPE??

Strike 2? Hollywood braces for actor walkout

The Associated Press- The contract between the Screen Actors Guild and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers expires Monday, and negotiations have dragged on for weeks with no apparent headway. SAG leaders have said they are willing to continue talking beyond the contract deadline. A strike in July - or a potential actors lockout if producers decided to play tough - could delay the return of many fall TV shows, which normally would be going back into production then.

Ben Kingsley Kisses Olsen Twin!

MSNBC- Looking back on filming her big smooch with veteran actor Ben Kingsley in the upcoming release “The Wackness,” Mary-Kate Olsen says she felt good about the experience. “He was so professional about it and made me feel so comfortable. He said, ‘Anything you don’t feel comfortable about, let me know. You lead me.’”

Madonna and Guy — Over?!

ExtraTV- The Material Girl and her hubby Guy Ritchie are facing divorce speculation in the media thanks to a report and a pic of Madonna without a wedding ring.

If divorced, the couple would split her whopping fortune — estimated around $600 million — because they didn’t sign a pre-nup.

VANDERJAGT STILL MISSING KICKS

ProFootballTalk.com- After more than a year of exile from the NFL, kicker Mike Vanderjagt made a triumphant return to Toronto, as the kicker and punter of the Argonauts. In his regular-season debut, Vanderjagt missed his first three field goals.

Birthdays This Past Week: Mick Fleetwood (61), Loren Roberts (53), Willis Reed (66), Dikembe Mutombo (42), Carly Simon (63), George Michael (45), Jimmie Walker (59), Phyllis George (59), Abner Doubleday (189), Greg LeMond (47), Shannon Sharpe (40), Derek Jeter (34), Ross Perot (78), Lorrie Morgan (49), Tobey Maguire (33), John Elway (48), Kathy Bates (60), Mel Brooks (82), Dan Dierdorf (59), Gary Busey (64)

There’s plenty happening this week in Tunica.  For a complete list of events and attractions in Tunica, Mississippi, click on the link below.  Get easy access to the casino’s, golf courses, and all other entertainment.

http://www.tunicamiss.com/

Here’s a sneak peak of what’s coming up this week in Tunica:

Don’t forget Mid-South Golfer the Radio show live in Tuinca this week at Tunica National Golf and Tennis Club from 3-4pm.  The Sports Bar follows from Tunica National from 4-6pm. 

Join us for the 3 Person Scramble Thursday at 5:15pm.  Just call 866-TEE-OFF1 for more information or go online at www.tunicanational.com.  See you there. 

Talk to y’all this week.

So I go to bed last night after spending draft night at Calhoun’s, fully prepared to jump on the Love Train. I wake up this morning, and the Grizzlies have O.J. Mayo and Darrell Arthur…AND they got rid of Brian Cardinal’s and Jason Collins’ contracts…AND they acquired Marko Jaric and more importantly, his soon to be wife, Victoria’s Secret model Adriana Lima?!

Take that, Eva Longoria! What team has got the hottest fan now!

Just echoing the sentiments of Peter…the Grizzlies don’t do things like this. Kudos to Chris Wallace and Michael Heisley for pulling off a blockbuster deal and acquiring one of the three best players in the draft. Expect Conley, Lowry, or Crittendon to be gone before the season starts. I love Darrell Arthur also…the guy scored 20 points and had 10 boards in the National Championship game, for God sakes.

In short, the Grizzlies have generated some excitement around a team that hasn’t had any, and for that, I applaud them.

wow. putting boys to shame. let me know if anyone who has a son who can do this. if not, maybe you’ll be praying for a daughter soon.