Blog updates

Comic-Con update [Ring Posts]

2008-07-24T16:37:43-05:00

Mick Foley has been added to Comic-Con 2008 this weekend in San Diego. There also is more information regarding Stacy Keibler's appearance: Ticket distribution for the autograph session is between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. People can't just show up at 1:30 p.m. to get in line. 10-11 a.m. Ticket distribution at ABC Family booth (3913) 12 p.m. Samurai Girl Panel in Room 2 1:30 p.m. Autograph session

Bartman refuses to cash in on foul ball incident [O, by the Way]

2008-07-24T16:31:40-05:00

In baseball lore, the legend of Chicago Cubs fan Steve Bartman seems destined to be one of the game’s more enduring and, it would appear, one the saddest.

It has paradox. A rabid fan of his beloved Cubs, Bartman nevertheless sets in motion a chain reaction that helps steal a World Series appearance from his team in one intemperate moment of impulse.

It has the element of the unanswered question: Would Cubs’ fielder Moises Alou even have caught the foul ball off the bat of Florida’s Luis Castillo in the sixth game of the 2003 NLCS? Even Alou fails to answer definitively saying on one occasion he would not have made the grab but then contradicting himself by contending later that he would have caught the ball.

And the tale seems to have headed down a poignant, gloomy end.

The Cubs have yet to return to the World Series since 1945. And Bartman himself – the target of fellow Cubs fans’ ire in the days after the incident -- has dodged any and all publicity.

What brings all this up again is that Bartman was just offered a fair amount of cash to appear at a sports collectors show in Rosement, Ill. He would have received $25,000 just to sign a photo of himself reaching for the ball.

He turned it down. In fact, I’m pretty sure Bartman would pay that much and more if what happened in that photo never occurred.

Daniel Cabrera [Roch Around the Clock]

2008-07-24T15:59:06-05:00

Make that one win in his last 12 starts.

If it wasn't for the Kansas City Royals, Daniel Cabrera would be looking for his first victory since May 20. He's gone the distance twice to defeat the Royals this season. He owns them. It's the rest of the league that's causing him problems.

Cabrera allowed seven runs and 11 hits in five-plus innings. He threw two wild pitches and hit a batter.

The silver lining with Cabrera has been his ability to eat up innings. But he hasn't gone six complete in his last three starts.

The bottom third of Toronto's order is 6-for-8 with three RBIs and three runs scored.

14 passive-aggressive appetizers [Dining@Large]

2008-07-24T14:49:31-05:00

Do not miss Yoni Brenner's fabulous list of "Fourteen Passive Aggressive Appetizers," which appeared in the July 21 New Yorker. If they don't make you laugh, you aren't reading enough ladies' magazines.

The pretty books get all the attention [Read Street]

2008-07-24T14:47:24-05:00

I admit it, I totally judge books by their covers. In fact, my hatred of Catcher in the Rye probably began with its lame cover design.

And on the flip side, I make a lot of my reading decisions based on the pretty, pretty books displayed.

I mean, sure, subject matter is important, but good first impressions are everything, right?

So when Entertainment Weekly published a list of the 25 best book cover designs of the past 25 years, I was definitely excited.

While I've read a few of them -- and was admittedly attracted by the amazing designs -- there are plenty new ones I can't wait to open up.

And this list has made me realize I'm actually a huge fan of Chip Kidd's work. This guy designed the covers for Jurassic Park, Glamorama, All the Pretty Horses and most recently, When You Are Engulfed in Flames.

When I write my masterpiece, I know exactly who's designing my cover.

'Project Runway': Hurry! Buy Suede's dress! [Reality Check]

2008-07-24T14:31:16-05:00

Suede wants you to buy his dress on bluefly.com, Suede says. For $280, Suede says, you can head out to a cocktail party looking like a mess of a ballerina (but an eco-friendly one!). Suede says Suede and Bluefly only have time to sew 150 of these dresses. So pull out the credit card now.

(Note: Dress looks better in this photo than it did on actual runway.)

(Photo from bravotv.com)

Fred Hammond concert rescheduled for October [Gospelrama]

2008-07-24T14:14:46-05:00

If you didn't already know by now, the Fred Hammond Concert featuring gospel artists such as Dewayne Woods, the Maryland Mass Choir and a host of other talent has been canceled for tomorrow. However, it has been rescheduled for Oct.18 at the First Mariner Arena. I few weeks ago I was talking to a promoter about ticket sales for this event and he said ticket sales were not going well. Summer is a difficult to sell a paid gospel concert because most people are enjoying summer vacations. Maybe Baltimore will be ready for the "Summer Praise Jam" in the fall. For more information on the event, click here.

Feist on Sesame Street [Midnight Sun]

2008-07-24T14:08:05-05:00

Don't lie to yourself: You love it.

And the winner is ... [Mutts]

2008-07-24T13:54:00-05:00

It's Jean Bosley, whose correct answers to our reader quiz were the first to hit our comments section.

For her speedy and 100 percent accurate efforts, Jean has been sent a brand new FURminator at absolutely no charge.

Shipping and handling on the order is $583, which I'm not sure I mentioned to her.

Just kidding.

Jean, when informed of her victory, showed the requisite excitement, or at least so it seemed from the number of exclamation points in her email: "I am so excited!!! My two dogs were adopted from MD SPCA (Lady) and the Harford County Humane Society (Joey) so they are VERY worthy.

"I'll send you pictures of us (attempting to) use it!"

Thanks to Jean, and her very worthy dogs Joey and Lady, and everyone who entered, and their very worthy dogs.

At 50, Nancy Lieberman taking it to the hoop again [O, by the Way]

2008-07-24T13:49:18-05:00

It’s difficult to know what to make of today’s announcement by the Detroit Shock that they’ve signed ESPN analyst Nancy Lieberman to a seven-day contract. Lieberman, 50, last played when she was 39 for the Phoenix Mercury during the WNBA’s first season. Interestingly, she also was a general manager and coach of the team she is now joining as a player. The Shock has some short-term and longer-term roster problems. The team was just handed its share of suspensions from a brawl with the Los Angeles Sparks earlier in the week and forward Cheryl Ford is out for the season with a torn ACL.

This is really curious, though. Lieberman has absolutely nothing to prove. She is deservedly in several halls of fame. As a young player in the 1970s, she was a startling phenom in that era because her playing style was aggressively schoolyard in a way that hewed closely to the men’s game. Again, for the times, she was a revelation. If for no other reason, “Lady Magic” deserves tons of credit as a pioneer on behalf of thousands and thousands of female players who followed.

On the subject of the Shock, assistant coach Rick Mahorn was suspended for two games for his role in the melee. Mahorn came in contact with L.A.’s, Lisa Leslie and Leslie fell to the floor. Mahorn says he was just trying to be a peacemaker and the contact was inadvertent. Head coach Bill Laimbeer voiced strong objection to Mahorn’s suspension insisting that his assistant was being “thrown under the bus.”

Detroit’s Plenette Pierson received the longest suspension, four games. Four other Detroit players were suspended for one game. Los Angeles had two players suspended for two games and three for one game.

Where's the rain when you need it? [Roch Around the Clock]

2008-07-24T13:44:23-05:00

Well, that was uneventful. It was most certainly uninspiring.

Maybe it was just a rehearsal. Time to really start playing.

The Orioles lost the suspended game, 5-1, with Kevin Millar’s throwing error allowing two runs to score in the eighth after Randor Bierd walked the first batter he faced.

Manager Dave Trembley ordered an intentional walk to Matt Stairs with Lyle Overbay on second base and one out. Bierd replaced Lance Cormier and walked Scott Rolen to load the bases before Millar fielded Adam Lind’s grounder and fired the ball over catcher Ramon Hernandez’s head. John McDonald, an RBI machine in this series, lifted a sacrifice fly to complete the scoring.

Here’s the lineup for the regular game, which is supposed to start at 1:55 p.m.:

Brian Roberts – 2B

Adam Jones – CF

Nick Markakis – RF

Aubrey Huff – 1B

Melvin Mora – 3B

Luke Scott – DH

Jay Payton – LF

Guillermo Quiroz – C

Juan Castro – SS

Daniel Cabrera – P

Before the game, Trembley was reminded that Hayden Penn had an impressive start on Tuesday for Triple-A Norfolk, allowing two runs in seven innings.

“One time doesn't get him a plane ticket here. It puts him back on the radar is what it does,” Trembley said. “We'll follow him a little more closely and we'll be anxious to see if he can repeat it.”

Jamie Walker allowed three runs – including a homer – and five hits in one inning today at Double-A Bowie.

Alex Cintron went 1-for-2 with a strikeout.

Favre saga continues: Can you hear me now? [O, by the Way]

2008-07-24T13:22:18-05:00

So this is what it has come to -- deuling national stories on whether future Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre does or does not have a cellular telephone issued to him by the Green Bay Packers.

Yesterday, there were news reports that he did with the further implication that the Packers could check call records to determine the extent of Favre's alleged contact with Minnesota offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell and even head coach Brad Childress. This would have all been in support of Green Bay's charge of tampering against the Vikings.

Today, there are reports in opposition to the first report and that Favre does not have a team-issued cell phone.

At this point, I'm don't care if Favre used tin cans-and-string to talk to the Edmonton Eskimos. Just get this thing settled.

Central Parking complaints in city garages? [Consuming Interests]

2008-07-24T13:11:45-05:00

Reader Laura is wondering if anyone else has had problems parking in city garages run by Central Parking?

I used to use a parking garage in Baltimore City run by Central Parking. For convenience sake (because I never carry cash), I used one of the garages that accepts credit cards. Only used it once in a while because I telecommute.

Then, months ago, I stopped altogether because of the price of gas. I take the light rail.

Two weeks ago, as I prepared to go on vacation, I checked my bank account. Central Parking Baltimore had hit my acount 5 times, all in one day, the day before. I called to dispute the charges with the bank. The original Customer Service person was so dumb she said, "Well, you must have parked there, I see you used your card in between trips to the garage."

First of all, who would make five trips in and out of a city garage at 9 bucks a pop each time? Secondly, I asked her, did you get the part about the garage being in Baltimore and those 'in-between' charges I actually made at the grocery store, etc., being in Annapolis? The next rep was a little brighter, saw the disparities and disputed the charges.

But those of you who use Central Parking, beware. They apparently store your credit card info. I can only guess that a worker figured out a scam to charge my card a number of times and 'refund' cash to themselves.

You gotta watch. all the time....

Excellent point, Laura. Anyone else notice shenanigans with city garage parking?

'Big Brother 10': Steven says so long [Reality Check]

2008-07-24T12:47:35-05:00

Patrick Gutierrez's wife and fellow BB10 fan, Sacha, recaps the show for us:

Once again, it is eviction night, with the live audience adding excitement to the show. Dan and Steven are sitting in the dreaded green armchairs. They had very different strategies for staying in the house: Dan laid low and continued to play weak while Steven campaigned aggressively, making promises of loyalty. Keesha tried hard not to appear to be campaigning for Steven, however, at every opportunity, she pointed out a reason to keep him.

Lines of division have started to form in the ABC's. Jessie, Michelle, Angie and Memphis are on one side against Libra, April, Ollie and Keesha. Jerry, Renny, Dan and Steven are the floaters.

During the question and answer session, Julie stirred the pot, asking Jerry if he felt respected and Libra if age mattered. In typical Jerry fashion, he gave a long-winded "yes."

Now pitching... [Roch Around the Clock]

2008-07-24T11:56:33-05:00

No. 54, Lance Cormier.

The Blue Jays will counter with left-hander Jesse Carlson.

Just a reminder that the Blue Jays lead, 2-1, in the sixth inning and have a runner on third base, two outs and a 1-0 count on Scott Rolen.

Jamie Walker will throw an inning today at Double-A Bowie before the Orioles decide what to do with him.

Chris Ray update: The Orioles have "backed off him" a little, according to team president Andy MacPhail. Nothing serious, we're told, but Ray definitely isn't going to return this season.

The Orioles already figured that Ray was done in 2008, but he wanted to come back in late August or early September.

What recession? [Dining@Large]

2008-07-24T11:53:43-05:00

Tim the Classic Music Critic, my deskmate and sometime dining companion, walked in just now and said, "What recession?"

A friend had a gift certificate to Christopher Daniel in Timonium, and they went last night. The place was packed, Tim told me. Every table was taken on a Wednesday night.

He, and I, find that pretty amazing given that a) Christopher Daniel isn't a cheap restaurant, b) in mid-July a lot of folks are away and c) there's supposed to be an economic downturn. ...

Flying with kids: Tip Sheet Thursday [Charm City Moms]

2008-07-24T11:31:01-05:00

It was a close call, but I decided to go with Amy's request for trips on air travel with children for this week's tip sheet. Fave libraries can be next week's subject, which gives us a little more time for your tips. (I just know you're going to send a lot of them.)

Here are some ideas for keeping kids entertained and reasonably quiet before and during your flight. Please chime in with your own:

(Photo at Baltimore-Washington International Airport by Sun photographer Jerry Jackson)

--This piece from FamilyFun has a number of tips, including dressing kids for comfort and packing an extra outfit in the carry-on, even if your child seems to be past the having-accidents stage. If you have a long delay, something spills or someone is, er, sick, you'll be glad you had the clean clothes. If it's a night flight, it's fun to pack pajamas so the kids can try to sleep.

--From personal experience, I'd add: If your child is in diapers, carry on at least one for every hour of the flight. And then one more.

--Here's the Transportation Security Administration's official primer on flying with children, which has vital information on how to handle formula, food and medication on the plane.

--And here's the Federal Aviation Administration site, which is the place to find out about safety seat regulations. It strongly encourages you to use a child-safety seat or other approved safety device for kids up to 40 pounds (after that, they can use a seat belt). Yes, it does involve buying a ticket for the child.

--Portable DVD players can make a long flight a lot easier. If you have two children, invest in the kind that allows you to hook up two sets of headphones. Just make sure you charge the player's battery, and check that it's working, before you fly.

--Take lots of books (think slim and flexible, so you can fit more in your carry-on), coloring books, plain paper, and crayons. Take as many as you think you'll need, then add a few more. In my experience, you need to change things up more frequently than you think. If space is tight, pack a Magna-Doodle, which provides hours of cheap drawing fun with no mess. And the pen is attached.

--Don't take small toys, irreplaceable toys, or toys with lots of pieces. They're bound to fall on the floor or get lodged between the seats and get lost. And if the irreplaceable stuffed animal is left behind, it could ruin your whole trip.

--This site has tips from a flight attendant, including one I second: have everyone in your party use the bathroom right before you fly -- and between connections -- whether they have to go or not. It seems lately that the seat-belt sign stays on constantly when you're flying, and kids may have a very hard time waiting for the end of a flight to use the bathroom.

--If you need to buy water after you get through security to have for kids to drink as you're taking off and landing (helps ease ear pain), pack little paper cups from home so you won't have to buy several pricey bottles. Moms who are breastfeeding can discreetly nurse during those parts of the flight. For older kids, gum helps the ears.

--Flying with autistic children can be especially challenging. This USA Today story has tips on that, which include preparing your child beforehand by showing him pictures of the airplane, the terminal at the airport, and the destination. The story also recommends preparing the flight attendants by telling them as you board that your child is autistic and may have special needs. You might be allowed to board early, which may be less overwhleming for your child.

Here's more from the TSA on traveling with children with disabilities.

Team USA sets out on comeback trail [O, by the Way]

2008-07-24T11:15:51-05:00

The Utah Jazz’ Carlos Boozer is showing a sense of the moment when refers to Team USA’s attempt to restore America to international basketball supremacy as the “road to redemption.”
From the beginning you got the idea that this current crop of American basketball all-stars had a dimension that wasn’t part of any previous NBA all-star team that suited up for the United States in the Olympics.

The original Dream Teams had a well-deserved swagger as they signed autographs for their star-struck opponents even as they crushed them. In contrast, the one that stumbled through the Athens Olympic four years ago had, well, I’m not sure, maybe a misplaced feeling of entitlement.

As a result what happened in Athens when the U.S. lost three games and had to scramble to salvage a bronze medal and avoid total embarrassment has been an albatross around the neck of American basketball ever since.

So this current national team, from the outset, has declared its sense of mission as it sets its sights on the Beijing Olympics next month.

That mission – this redemptive journey – begins tomorrow night with an exhibition game against Canada and then continues with a warm-up swing through Asia next week.

It also happens to begin with the U.S. team hobbled a little by various nicks and bruises, not the least of which is a stress fracture in center Dwight Howard’s sternum. This is a team that is already somewhat lacking in a dominant post presence and Orlando’s Howard, at 6-11, 265, is the biggest of the big men.

On top of that, the alternate that Team USA brought up in response to Howard’s injury, center Tyson Chandler, has not joined the team in Las Vegas for practices because of a toe injury.
And the list of the dings – current or lingering or in the after-care stage -- goes on. Cleveland’s LeBron James suffered a mild ankle sprain yesterday. Los Angeles’ Kobe Bryant still has the broken pinky that he has delayed surgery on until after the Olympics. Dwyane Wade is returning from the knee injury that cut short his season in Miami.

Everyone says everything will be fine, that there will be no injury issues in China.
They better think that way because Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski is absolutely right when he says that no one, meaning the media and fans, is going to give the Americans a free pass if perform anywhere as badly as the 2004 version did.

“Hopefully we stay completely healthy,” Krzyzewski was quoted as saying, “but if we don't, we can't make an excuse that we didn't do as well because of an injury.”

In the end, what may allow this Team USA to prevail is its collective determination – whether that springs from patriotism or from pride in the NBA as an institution (albeit the league is becoming increasingly international) or from a sense that basketball, like jazz, is an art form born in America and that the U.S. should always set the standard.

In a Time magazine article that appears tomorrow, James is quoted as succinctly guaranteeing a U.S. gold medal.

More to the point are his more recent remarks that underscore the sentiment that may be the key in this, as Boozer aptly calls it, redemption. “We have a lot to prove, honestly,” James was quoted as saying. “We have to rekindle the flame that we are the best basketball players in the world, and I feel this is our last chance.”

Mystery pitcher [Roch Around the Clock]

2008-07-24T11:10:19-05:00

Manager Dave Trembley won't reveal Jeremy Guthrie's replacement today because the Blue Jays haven't named their pitcher.

Trembley joked that he could have Guthrie throw eight warm-up tosses and then remove him. Guthrie offered to keep pitching, even writing on the magnetic board that he'd get the last out in the sixth and see how his arm felt.

I'm predicting that Lance Cormier will take the ball, but that's only a hunch.

Book It: Get inspired [Read Street]

2008-07-24T11:08:23-05:00

It's a pretty quiet week coming up, so I thought I'd highlight a few exhibits the Baltimore City library has available. If art doesn't inspire you, I don't know what will. And I hear you can even pick up a few books there, while you're at it.

This is Our Land: Discovering America and the World Through Original Illustrations from Children’s Books. This traveling exhibition of 80 original artworks by well-known illustrators, from the Meridian International Center in Washington, D.C., is on display at the Central Library 400 Cathedral St., through Aug. 2.

A Line in the Sand. This is a photographic exhibit chronicling Maryland’s fight against domestic violence and the people who have led the way, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the House of Ruth. It's at the Central Library through Aug. 9.

From the Ashes of a Dream: Race and Revitalization Since Martin Luther King. The traveling exhibition from the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture will be at the Orleans Street Branch through Sept. 8.

And for more traditionally bookish events, see the Read Street Calendar.

The mysterious milk carton [Dining@Large]

2008-07-24T11:04:24-05:00

I haven't heard from Owl Meat today with his usual Funtastic Thursday game. He hasn't been commenting as much as usual either. Perhaps he's actually involved in something important in the real world. I hate that.

I was thinking about him and his mystery ingredients yesterday when I was reading the pint carton of skim milk from Giant I was having for lunch. It was very mysterious. ...

Speaking of single pleasures... [BaltAmour]

2008-07-24T11:01:54-05:00

Right in line with our hidden pleasures of being single topic this week, e.large over at Dining at Large discusses Bachelor (or bachelorette) cuisine. You know, eating peanut butter out of the jar, cereal for dinner? Well, those were e.large's suggestions.

I've always been a foodie freak, so my bachelorette cuisine could end up being beignets for dinner (from scratch, of course) after watching Emeril make them on the Food Channel. But, oh yeah, I could also be known to whip up some ramen, or a classic I picked up from an ex-girlfriend: Onion quesadilla. After eating that, you ain't kissing nobody with that mouth.

... And speaking of no kissing, I know Boyfriend's bachelor meal -- An unholy combination of beef ramen, boiled egg and some extra-hot African spice mix. That's a meal to make when you're a bachelor AND to make you a bachelor.

How about you?

The gift test [BaltAmour]

2008-07-24T10:57:58-05:00

My birthday is in less than two weeks. And, for the past week, Boyfriend has been pestering me with one question: "So, do you want one big gift or three little gifts?" I refuse to answer, so now he has started to spring it on me at random times:

(While in another room) "Hey, could you come help me with something?" (I come into the room.) "Do you want one big gift or three little gifts?"
(While talking about house matters) "Oh yeah, that reminds me! I meant to ask you -- Do you want one big gift or three little gifts?"

It's hilarious. Well, at least for me. :)

I bring this up because our interaction centers on one idea: The idea of the gift as the test.

Courtney Love vs. Ryan Adams [Midnight Sun]

2008-07-24T10:53:56-05:00

If this is true, what a wild, strange saga it is.

Courtney Love (Kurt Cobain's widow/total train-wreck) claims alt-country rocker (and semi-train wreck) Ryan Adams stole one of her American Express cards while they were having a fling and paid for his entire album Rock N Roll with it.

Be warned: If you click on that link, you get the whole weird, profane rant she posted on her MySpace site.

Now, this wasn't just any credit card. It withdrew directly from the trust fund of Love's daughter Frances Bean (pictured, right).

So, to recap, Adams allegedly stole a million bucks from Kurt Cobain's daughter to finance an alt-country album.

Wicked!

I don't think Adams has addressed the situation at this point.

That's pretty surprising, because, as Chuck Klosterman mentioned in this month's Esquire, Adams Googles himself on a regular basis.

Even better: He's not shy about spouting off ...

U.S. home sales fall [The Real Estate Wonk]

2008-07-24T10:30:41-05:00

U.S. homeowners sold about 15 percent fewer homes last month than they did a year earlier, the National Association of Realtors said this morning. The trade group said the seasonally adjusted annual rate of sales -- meaning a year's worth if the pace in June continued for 12 months -- was just under 4.9 million homes.

Wonk reader John points out that the NAR's 2008 sales prediction, back in May 2007, was about 6.5 million homes.

In its defense, the association notes that May 2007 was before the worst of the credit crunch hit. Sales have slumped much more sharply since then.

The NAR also said yesterday that a recent survey of agents suggests that "nearly a quarter of potential home buyers are waiting on the sidelines."

Adams discusses commitment to Maryland [Recruiting Report]

2008-07-24T10:29:33-05:00

By now, Maryland running back commitment D.J. Adams is a seasoned pro at dealing with the media. With more than 30 scholarship offers, Adams regularly granted interviews to team sites from the two major recruiting services. He also did the occasional check-in with local media. While the Norcross, Ga., running back always had an interest in journalism, the recruiting process helped Adams decide on the field as a potential career path -- something that helped Maryland land the three-star prospect. “[Journalism is] just what always stood out to me, especially with the recruiting process and doing interviews,” Adams said. “[Maryland’s journalism and communications program] was another thing that helped determine my decision. I want to be in journalism or a communication type of major, and to be in the ... Baltimore-D.C. area, that is a great opportunity. That's what I want to do.” Adams got another first-hand look at his potential future profession at a news conference Monday at Norcross High School. The 5-foot-10, 215-pounder pulled on a Maryland hat to announce his decision, leaving hats from Clemson, LSU and Notre Dame on the table. After his choice was made, Adams granted several interviews. Later that day, one news outlet dubbed him a ‘soft commitment,’ meaning he would take official visits to other schools. Adams said that couldn’t be farther from the truth. “It's not at all a soft commit,” Adams said. “It’s a solid verbal. I'm done with the recruiting process. Maryland is it. [There will be] no other visits. The University of Maryland -- it’s official. That's it. It's a solid verbal. I held a press conference. That's it. There’s no soft verbal.” Beyond UM’s academic offerings, Adams said he picked the Terps for his relationship with the coaching staff, particularly offensive line coach Tom Brattan. “Coach Brattan is the best recruiting coach I talked to during the whole process,” Adams said. “Me and him developed a real good relationship. He’s just a great guy as well as coach [John] Donovan, the running backs coach. I got a chance to get acquainted with those guys and call them frequently. The coaching staff, everybody was great. And it's not like they're going to work every morning. It's more like a brotherhood, and that's what I was looking for. That's definitely a plus.” Another plus in Adams’ opinion was the opportunity for early playing time. Adams stressed that no promises were made. But the coaches did implore him to stay prepared and be ready to make an early contribution. “They expect me to come and be ready to play,” Adams said. “They expect me to be ready. Early playing time has been discussed. That we've talked about, but they’re just ready for me to get my senior year taken care of and be ready to play.” Adams admitted that, days after making his announcement, there’s still excitement in the air. While many high school football followers in the Atlanta area were initially surprised at his choice, the community has started to come around. “The area's still buzzing,” Adams said. “People weren’t expecting Maryland, with an LSU and Clemson and Notre Dame on the table. They weren’t expecting Maryland, but now they're coming up to me and saying, ‘Maryland did OK last year, they’re expected to do well this year.’ Everybody’s starting to understand, and I'm starting to explain why I picked Maryland. Hopefully two years from now they’ll see why I picked Maryland, for the academic and athletic opportunities.” Click here for Norcross head coach Keith Maloof’s take on Adams’ commitment. Click here for more on Maryland’s 2009 recruiting class.

Hard losses in Afghanistan [Military Watch]

2008-07-24T10:10:48-05:00

Nineteen Americans have died in Afghanistan this month. Each one a tragedy for family, for friends, for all of us.

According to the latest Defense Department statement, Marine Pfc. Ivan I. Wilson, 22, of Clearlake, Calif., died Monday while serving in Helmand Province with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines out of Twentynine Palms, Calif.

2/7 is engaged in training and mentoring Afghan police, a critical job. Also a dangerous one.

I was shocked to see the casualties in Afghanistan while I was away last week included 1st Lt. Jason Mann of the 1st Battalion, 6th Marines.

Jason seemed to epitomize the best aspects of a professional military officer. Bright, enthusiastic and physically strong, he had a good sense of humor and was unfailingly polite. He was a mustang, a former enlisted Marine, and he had earned his rank and the respect of the Marines around him the hard way. He was fun to be around and a reassuring presence during times of stress. He was a natural leader.

He always treated me as he did everyone, with dignity and respect, and in the short time I spent with him in Afghanistan I considered him a friend. I miss him, and my thoughts are with his family and friends.

Save money on car insurance [Consuming Interests]

2008-07-24T09:50:24-05:00

Good morning folks! Wanted to share this list of tips to cut your car insurance bills, courtesy of Bankrate ... lots of great ideas to pare down your premium while ensuring you are protected in the event of a real emergency.

Funeral arrangements for K-Swift [Midnight Sun]

2008-07-24T09:29:00-05:00

Here are the details for K-Swift's wake and funeral, courtesy of Shawn Caesar:

Today
Viewing: 3 p.m.-8 p.m.
Joseph Brown Funeral Home, 2140 N. Fulton Avenue

Tomorrow
Viewing: 2 p.m.-6 p.m.
Wake Services: 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
New Shiloh Baptist Church, 2100 North Monroe Street

Saturday
Wake Services: 10 a.m.
Funeral Services: 11 a.m.
Morgan State University, Carl J. Murphy Fine Arts Center

Burial services will be held at:
Loudon Park Cemetery, 3620 Wilkens Avenue

Flowers can be sent to:
Morgan State University
Carl J. Murphy Fine Arts Center, 2201 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21251

Suspended game adds to Orioles' pitching problems [O, by the Way]

2008-07-24T09:26:59-05:00

The Orioles got the next-worst-thing to a bad outing from ace Jeremy Guthrie last night -- a suspended game that has to be resumed today, at noon.

The last thing O's manager Dave Trembley needed was to have to find another pitcher or two or three to finish off a game that ended with Toronto ahead 2-1 in the top of the sixth. Guthrie had taken the game into the sixth when the Blue Jays scored the go-ahead run and the deluge forced the suspension of play. There are two outs in the Jays' half of the sixth. Toronto has reason to be even more disappointed. The Blue Jays have to replace A.J. Burnett who had given up one run on six hits and had seven strike outs.

Daniel Cabrera pitches the regularly scheduled game right after the completion of the first one so he better bring his A game. There may not be a lot of help left in the bullpen.

Lone man in the press box [Roch Around the Clock]

2008-07-24T09:14:15-05:00

I knew it was going to be an early morning. I just didn’t know it would be this early.

I’m heading to the clubhouse to see whether manager Dave Trembley has chosen a pitcher to replace Jeremy Guthrie, and whether he’ll go situational on us or find someone who can give him multiple innings because he has another game to play.

Down on the farm, Jake Arrieta made his final start for Single-A Frederick last night before joining Team USA, tossing seven scoreless innings and striking out eight.

Brad Bergesen won his 12^th game for Double-A Bowie, one short of the franchise record. Rain halted play after 4 ½ innings. Bergesen retired the first nine batters he faced on 30 pitches. He allowed two hits before umpires stopped the game.

“Bergy pretty much had it going right from the get-go. I could tell down in the bullpen,” Baysox pitching coach Mike Griffin said. “You know, I can usually tell what kind of possible start we could have when the starter’s warming up out there. Something told me from his demeanor on the mound warming up in the bullpen and the way he was finishing.”

Single-A Delmarva’s Sean Gleason, a 20^th-round pick in last year’s draft, tossed a complete-game shutout yesterday, allowing only two hits in a 3-0 win over Hickory. He faced one batter over the minimum. Gleason posted a 2.93 ERA last year at Bluefield.

Need more proof that there’s a big difference between Triple-A baseball and the majors? Freddie Bynum batted sixth last night for Norfolk, going 1-for-5 with two strikeouts.

Housing bill, by the numbers [The Real Estate Wonk]

2008-07-24T09:01:22-05:00

The House bill intended to deal with the increasing ripples of the housing slump, passed yesterday, includes:

--$4 billion for buying and improving abandoned properties

--$15 billion in tax breaks, including the much-discussed credit of up to $7,500 for first-time buyers

--plans to insure new loans totaling as much as $300 billion for homeowners in trouble

--a permanent increase (to $625,500) to the limit on the size of mortgages that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can purchase or guarantee

--no cap on the amount of money the Treasury Department can extend to Fannie and Freddie via a line of credit

--the creation of a new oversight agency for Fannie and Freddie, called the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which could put a lid on the multi-million-dollar executive compensation there

Want more details? See the AP story HERE and The Wall Street Journal story HERE.

Jobs of the future [Random Rodricks]

2008-07-24T08:51:08-05:00

In a changing marketplace, which careers will emerge as the most lucrative and secure? On Midday at 1 pm today we hook up with Marty Nemko, a career coach and author of U.S. News & World Report's "Best Careers of 2008," and Dumont Owen, Director of the Career Center at the University of Baltimore. Click here for the Baltimore Sun's job resources

Who-whom smackdown [You Don't Say]

2008-07-24T08:23:06-05:00

Pop over to Visual Thesaurus for a point/counterpoint on the survival of whom, but don’t expect much in the way of fireworks between Professor Arnold Zwicky and me, craven defeatist and fellow-traveler of linguists that I am.

The comments, particularly those from the readers who have difficulty in identifying humor, even when it is labeled as such, provide the fun.

Wine & Wag on Friday [Mutts]

2008-07-24T08:22:00-05:00

Drinking and dogs do mix (in moderation of course), and here's you chance to enjoy both: the Maryland SPCA, will be holding its second Wine & Wag Happy Hour On Friday, July 25.

Dogs are welcome and admitted free, but the SPCA requests you keep them on their leashes, and bring only one dog per person.

Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the gate of the SPCA, at 3300 Falls Road. The event runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Children are welcome, but must have tickets.

Complimentary hors d'oeuvres will be served, and there is a suggested donation of $3 for beer and wine and $1 for other beverages.

Activities include a treasure hunt, obedience demos, paw painting, off-leash play in the fun runs and tours of the adoption center. Guests are also welcome to cast their ballots for the best decorated kennel -- this month, the staff has gone Hollywood, outfitting all the kennels with movie themes.

The event will be canceled if weather is bad, and ticket prices will be refunded.

The Maryland SPCA, which is feeling the same crush as other parts of the country as a flagging economy sends more people and pets into homelessness, is offering a special on adult dogs until the end of the July -- all dogs adopted will receive free microchipping.

For more information, please contact Tami Gosheff at tgosheff@mdspca.org or 410-235-8826, ext. 138.

To reserve your spot, you can click here.

Marlin Moon Grille: Fine, but simple dining [The Beach Life]

2008-07-24T08:12:15-05:00

Just west of the Route 50 bridge lies one of the best restaurants in all of Delmarva. At Marlin Moon Grille, the food is exquisite and the atmosphere is classy but relaxed. There's nothing bad on the menu. Their seafood, steaks, soups and salads are all top notch. The cream of crab soup has the perfect amount of sherry and huge lumps of backfin crabmeat. Another appetizer, the tuna nachos, is a rarity to see at a restaurant. They consist of won ton chips, seaweed salad, wasabi, red chili aioli, and of course, sesame-encrusted pan seared yellowfin tuna. One appetizer only served in season is the flash-fried soft shell crab. It tastes like one of the workers went out into the bay and caught it five minutes before they flash fried it. It's a refreshing upgrade over the soft crabs served at other establishments, which are often frozen. Marlin Moon's soft crabs are as fresh as possible. Always consider the specials, which change every day. Sometimes they have sea bass (served whole), while other times they offer various Mahi Mahi dishes. The soft crab appetizer is usually available as an entree, but it comes with two crabs instead of one. If you didn't order the tuna nachos, the ahi tuna entree is a great choice. It has a Hawaiian barbecue sauce that gives the fish an excellent flavor, and the chefs always cook it to perfection. If you somehow manage not to stuff yourself on soup, appetizer and entree, order a dessert. Marlin Moon has delicious cakes and ice creams. The clientele at Marlin Moon often consists of families and fishermen, who travel over from the nearby marinas to dine on the one that got away. It's classy, it's elegant, but at the same time, it's relaxed and playful. There are two big issues with eating at Marlin Moon. First, they don't take reservations, only call-ahead seating, so it can be hard to get a table. Second, it's on the pricey side. Most of the entrees are in the $30-$40 range, which can be tough for people on a tight budget. If you're looking for one of the best meals in Delmarva in one of the most unique atmospheres, Marlin Moon Grille is the perfect choice.

Racer donates vests for police dogs [Mutts]

2008-07-24T08:08:00-05:00

NASCAR driver Tony Stewart is donating protective vests for police dogs in Indiana and four other states.

The Columbus, Ind. driver is giving 30 vests to the Indiana State Police K-9 unit and 10 more vests for dogs in Georgia, New Mexico, North Carolina and Minnesota.

The donation follows a request to the Tony Stewart Foundation from a New Mexico woman who founded a non-profit organization that solicits money to buy the bullet-proof and stab-proof vests for police dogs.

So far, the organization has provided 169 vests in 22 states. The foundation says the vests cost $895 each, meaning the 40 new vests would total more than $35,000.

Stewart will present the vests to state police at O'Reilly Raceway Park west of Indianapolis in Clermont on Thursday.

(Photo by Associated Press)

Things to do this week [Charm City Moms]

2008-07-24T08:06:22-05:00

On the agenda for family outings this week: a festival and car show in Hamilton; the German festival at the state fairgrounds in Timonium; a 4-H fair in Carroll County, and more:

Thursday (July 24):

Concerts In The Park: The Esquires play hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s at Dundalk Heritage Park, 10 Dunmanway, Dundalk. The concert starts at 7 p.m. Call 410-282-4116. Free.

Eric the Conjurer: Watch a magic show at 5 p.m. at the Chesapeake Children’s Museum, 25 Silopanna Road, Annapolis. Call 410-990-1993 or go to theccm.org. Free, but a $5 donation is suggested.

Story Pals: The theme for this storytime is Down on the Farm. The program includes stories, fingerplays, songs and other activities and takes place at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the Westminster branch of the Carroll County Public Library, 50 E. Main St., Westminster. For ages 2- 3 with an adult. Call 410-386-4488 or go to library.carr.org. Free.

Friday, July 25:

Camp Carroll Capers: Teen actors perform songs, stories and skits at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., Westminster. CAll 410-848-7272 or visit carr.org/arts. Free.

Cylburn Nature Story Hour:

(Photo of 2007 Carroll County 4-H Fair courtesy of Wyatt Griffin)

Preschoolers and their care-givers can listen to nature-themed stories and participate in activities and a short nature walk, weather permitting, at Cylburn Arboretum, 4915 Greenspring Ave. The event runs 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. For ages 3-6. Call 410-367-2217 or go to cylburnassociation.org. Free.

Preschool Storytimes: The Towson branch of the Baltimore County Public Library, 320 York Road, Towson, hosts stories, songs, and activities for ages 2- 5 with an adult. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. Call 410-887-6166 or go to bcpl.info. Free.

UM School of Music Summer Youth Music Camp Concert: Rising middle-schoolers who participated in a week-long summer camp give a finale concert at 4 p.m. at the Clarice smith Performing Arts Center, University of Maryland, College Park. Call 401-405-2787 or go to claricesmithcenter.umd.edu. Free.

Saturday (July 26):

15th Annual Hamilton Street Festival and Car Show: The festival, which includes live music, games, crafts, a moon bounce, food and more takes place 9 p.m.-5 p.m. on the 5400 and 5500 blocks of Harford Road, Hamilton. Call 410-254-2323. Free.

108th German Festival: The festival has live entertainment, including a puppet show; a rock-climbing wall, and German foods, from 11:30 a.m. -10 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. -7 p.m. Sunday at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium. Call 410-522-4144 or visit md-germans.org. $6; $5 for seniors and free for children younger than 12.

Carroll County 4-H & FFA Fair: From Saturday through Aug. 1, the Carroll County Agriculture Center, 706 Agriculture Center Drive, Westminster, hosts the event, which features livestock exhibits, contests, an antique tractor show, a combine demolition derby, live entertainment, a parade and more. Hours are 10 a.m-10 p.m. each day. Call 410-848-3247 or go to carrollcountyfair.com. Free admission. Some events require a fee.

SalsaPolkaLooza: This outdoor event features live bands; break dancers; children’s art activites; a global marketplace; vendors selling international foods; and more. Activities take place 11 a.m-5 p.m. in front of the Creative Alliance at the Patterson, 3134 Eastern Ave. Call 410-276-1651 or go to creativealliance.org. Free.

Sunday (July 27):

Defenders Return to the Fort: Watch the Fort McHenry Guard re-enact a typical day in the life of a War of 1812 soldier. The event features replica clothing, drills, barracks activities, children’s programs and artillery and musket firing demonstrations. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is at 2400 E. Fort Ave. Hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Call 410-962-4290 or go to nps.gov/fomc. $7 general admission. Free for ages 15 and younger.

Family Tour: Patterns at Play!: Tour various galleries at the Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Drive. The event begins at 2 p.m. Call 443-573-1700 or go to artbma.org. Free.

Out of the Ordinary: An Interview with Elizabeth Morisette [Baltimore by Hand]

2008-07-24T08:06:21-05:00

Local fibers artist, Mom, teacher, and self-described “community spirit” Elizabeth Morisette is an avid collector of things. Her whimsical pieces – often made up of everyday objects – are woven, sewn, felted, tied, and stapled sculptures that exemplify the art of transformation. She graciously took time between shows, classes and selling her house to answer some questions. Enjoy. Shoe In (35"x12"; cotton fabric and shoe stretchers woven on a cotton warp), Portrait of the artist, Keep This Coupon (20" x 8" x 4"; tickets, thread, and glue). Please introduce yourself. My name is Elizabeth Morisette. I currently live in Greenbelt, Maryland, but my family is moving to Fort Collins, Colorado, this summer. I work for Arts for the Aging providing arts programming to senior citizens. I have a husband and an 8-year-old daughter. What do you do outside of making your own art? I teach art to whomever I can. I especially love doing intergenerational community projects that pull people from all ages, races and socio-economic backgrounds together in the process of creating art. Why did you pursue becoming an artist? I always had my own way of doing things. I remember one time when I was about 8 years old spending an entire day wrapping my friends swing set with yarn. Her Mom called early the next morning demanding that I come and unwrap the swing set. I had as much fun unwrapping as I had wrapping the swing set! I have seen things this way ever since. What is your process like? How do you begin a piece? I always start with the materials. I gather bits of collections from people, on Ebay, at thrift stores. Then I find a way to make them visually interesting. I try to use only one item, like, say, bottle caps, and maybe wire or something to bind them together. Then, I experiment with different ways they can relate to each other. What do you do to promote your art? I have a blog and Flickr site. I have just recently become represented by Heineman-Myers Contemporary Art in Bethesda, Maryland. Stance (8"x10" x5"; zippers and thread), Beauty School Dropout (40"x25"x3"; Cotton fabric and warp with plastic hair rollers), Blister (20"x40"x3"; plastic blister packaging and glue). At the moment, Elizabeth is building a sculpture out of grocery bags for the Virgin Festival. She also has several pieces in the show "Art From Trash" at the Baltimore Public Works Museum, currently on exhibit until Oct. 6; Pier 7 of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor at 751 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore.

Douglass High [Random Rodricks]

2008-07-24T07:48:12-05:00

If you got a chance to see the HBO doc Hard Times At Douglass High, you might want to check out Midday at noon. The directors Alan and Susan Raymond are to be guests. 88.1 WYPR. The film airs again this weekend.

DeWayne Woods' Let Go [Gospelrama]

2008-07-24T07:14:27-05:00

Next week while I'm in Chicago, I'll get a chance to meet DeWayne Woods, who is in concert in Baltimore on Friday at the Summer Praise Slam at First Mariner. He will be among the many Donald Lawrence mentored and influenced artists attending a live recording of Lawrence's next CD, which is due out in October. Lawrence, as you might recall, is the featured artist of the Macy's Presents UniSun Gospel Concert on Sept. 27 at the Lyric Opera House in Baltimore. The event is put on by The Baltimore Sun. Lawrence is very connected to the Gospel world as you will see over the next few weeks on my blog leading up to the September concert. But it's Woods' story that is most interesting. Some years ago, the former member of the Tri-City Singers (a Lawrence gospel choir) was diagnosed with the HIV virus. But now he says he's cured of the virus, because he "Let Go" so that through prayer he would be healed. That is his testimony. Earlier this year, he won the Stellar Award's Male Vocalist of the Year. His latest CD is "Dewayne Woods and When the Singers Meet," which includes his latest single "Let Go.'' To read more about him, click here.

'Project Runway': Sueded! [Reality Check]

2008-07-24T07:13:11-05:00

The show opens with a shot of Suede referring to himself in the third person, which I imagine we're all tired of, one episode in. It feels like someone gave him that advice so he'd stand out on the show -- it's like his "Spike hat" from Top Chef. ("I know! Only talk about yourself in the third person! Then people will start to think there's a buzz about you.") Or maybe he's really just that annoying.

We go right into the models, and Heidi announces something new: The winning model will get a spread in Elle magazine. They're all a-flutter, standing in the runway in their bare feet. There's some brief, manufactured drama over who gets which model, and then we learn the reason for the extra prize: The designers will make cocktail dresses, for their models, who will serve as clients AND do the fabric shopping. Oh, and the models can only buy eco-friendly fabrics. Now the designers are all a-flutter (but not barefoot), rolling their eyes and wringing their hands. Leanne looks smug and says, "I ALWAYS use green fabrics." (Bully for you.)

The models' shopping is pretty much a disaster. There's brief talk of hemp fabrics and I hear phrases such as, "I need, like, color." Many end up buying the same fuchsia, champagne, black and bronze organic satins and silks. One winds up with peacock feathers, and Kevin is none too pleased when she returns. He's huffy that the fabrics don't match, whatever that means, and asks what he's supposed to do with the feathers. Wesley calls his "disgusting," but he's wearing a sweater tied around his shoulders, so what does he know?

What is the greatest homer in Orioles history? [Connolly's Corner Sports Bar]

2008-07-24T07:06:27-05:00

Rain suspended Wednesday’s game, but it was business as usual inside the bar, as plenty of you reminisced about the Orioles’ 1983 title season. More than 20 of those Orioles were at the stadium for the anniversary celebration yesterday. Most of the key ones were there, with the primary exceptions being Rich Dauer (family commitment) and John Lowenstein (previously scheduled vacation). At least that’s what I was told by someone who knew. Storm Davis and Tim Stoddard weren’t there, and neither was Sammy Stewart – we know his excuse. The guys that showed had a blast during the two pre-game news conferences. Eddie Murray was hamming it up pretty fiercely, riding Al Bumbry and Rick Dempsey for talking too much. Looked like a good time had by all. Today’s topic of debate was brought up earlier this week and seems appropriate for today. It might be a little close to yesterday’s topic, but I have faith you’ll find a way to answer differently (especially for those who chose Tippy Martinez’s pickoffs or Cal Ripken’s catch as their top 1983 moment). What do you think is the greatest homer in Orioles history? Was it Tito Landrum’s blast to break up a scoreless tie in the 10th inning of the fourth game of the 1983 American League Championship Series? That’s got to be up there. But what about Frank Robinson’s “here” homer in and out of Memorial Stadium? Or Cal’s homer on the night he set the consecutive-games-played record? My guess is you guys will go with Doug DeCinces’ blast to start Orioles Magic in 1979. Am I right? Daily Think Special: What is the single greatest homer in Orioles history?