Friday, October 30, 2020

Limerick Friday #484: Din Djarin, Please Take Us To A New World -- Day 229


I could use a midichlorian
Or a hyperspace DeLorean
But I'll settle for a new season
That's sure to be pleasin'
Happy Day of the Mandelorian!

No pressure, No. 1
You're now our top gun
We benched Fitz
In a renaissance midst
So go out and be Marino, son

Republicans playing fetch
And ads that make me wretch
"Five more days," they say
Seems optimistic, but OK
Staggering through the home stretch

A winning dalliance
Now a season in the balance
The injuries mount
No quarterback to count
The Pack must play like gallants

A long time since Shula
Or even Suh-a
Dare we believe
In a reprieve
Hope in the time of Tua


Thursday, October 29, 2020

Day 228, Quasi-Quarantine: A Heart As Big As The Ocean


Happy birthday to the world's sweetest kid. May your next year be full of all the good things that this past one lacked. 💙


Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Day 227, Quasi-Quarantine: Beautiful "The Yellow House" Would Have Benefited From More Vulnerability


"My mother is always saying, Begin as you want to end. But my beginning precedes me. Absences allow us one power over them: They do not speak a word. We say of them what we want. Still, they hover, pointing fingers at our backs. No place to go now but into deep ground."

A "National Book Award" winner in 2019, "The Yellow House" serves as both lamentation for and love story to New Orleans East. 

Author Sarah M. Broom weaves a beautifully written and poignant story, centered on her childhood home that succumbed to the elements and the ingrained corruption of New Orleans. The tale is, in turns, heartbreaking, funny, thought-provoking, and draining. 

Broom's depictions of the abandonment of New Orleans East, her long-delayed eulogy to her friend Alvin, and her Hurricane Katrina narratives from her siblings are all immensely powerful.

The book is at its most resonant when Broom allows herself in enough to talk transparently about the challenge of shame and the pain of memory.

"Here came the shifty settling in of shame ... Shame is a slow creeping. The most powerful things are quietest, if you think about it. Like water."

Despite the occasional vulnerability, however, the author's seeming lack of agency hinders the telling for me. Relationships, job choices, residential decisions ... they are all described as happening to her and not created by her. 

Her voice shines through at various times, but other times she seems to only bear witness -- a necessary and honorable function, but more is expected of a memoir grounded in truth.

"I had no home. Mine had fallen all the way down. I understood, then, that the place I never wanted to claim had, in fact, been containing me. We own what belongs to us whether we claim it or not. When the house fell down, it can be said, something in me opened up. Cracks help a house resolve internally its pressure and stresses, my engineer friend had said. Houses provide a frame that bears us up. Without that physical structure, we are the house that bears itself up. I was now the house."

I left the book feeling like a writer of Broom's unmistakable gifts may have needed to push herself a bit more to ingrain herself in her own origin story. 

"When you come from a mythologized place, as I do, who are you in that story?", she asked at one point. At the end of the day, I feel it is this question that Broom was never quite able to answer in her own book.

"Defining myself almost exclusively by a mythology, allowing the city to do what it does best and for so many: act as a cipher, transfiguring itself into whatever I needed it to be. I did not yet understand the psychic cost of defining oneself by the place where you are from."


Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Day 226, Quasi-Quarantine: Ford Madox Ford Offers A Definition Of Blues Punk

 

I forget what rabbit hole I went down to discover Ford Madox Ford, but here I am.

Most likely, I discovered them through The Dils, which were powered by frontman Chip Kinman, the Southern California punk legend. After a decade-long absence from performing, Kinman decided to pursue full-blown blues punk with Ford Madox Ford.

The new band was largely a family affair, with Kinman's son, Dewey Peek, on guitar and brother, Tony Kinman, producing and writing the music. Ford Madox Ford also features bassist Matt Littell and drummer S. Scott Arguero.

Named (presumably) after a 19th-century novelist, poet, critic, and editor from England, Ford Madox Ford emerged on the scene with 2018's "This American Blues." This album is highlighted by the searing singles "Dark American Night," "Before the Fall," and "Let's Work Together."

This unique sound brings in elements of Americana in addition to punk and blues, making these iconic rockers worth a listen in a new configuration.

Monday, October 26, 2020

Day 225, Quasi-Quarantine: "Crosshair" Snipes His Way Into Our Imagination


When the "Bad Batch" made an appearance in the final season of "Star Wars: The Clone Wars," excitement built around these unique, fascinating characters. Part of Clone Force 99, the Bad Batch was comprised of four clones with genetic mutations.

"Crosshair" is a sniper for the Bad Batch, taking advantage of his exceptional eyesight that makes him deadly from up to 10 kilometers away. This character is supposedly based on Clint Eastwood and described as a "clone version of Cad Bane" -- easily one of the best villains in the Clone Wars universe. Crosshair is sarcastic, aloof, and distrustful of "regs," or regular clone troopers, making him an immediate favorite.


As immediate fans, we secured custom minifigures to represent Clone Force 99. The Crosshair version comes with his trademark 773 Firepuncher sniper rifle and DC-17 hand blaster, along with commando armor that is modified to accommodate the scope of his sniper rifle.

This is a worthy addition in advance of the much-anticipated new "Bad Batch" TV series. We'll discuss his colleagues, Sergeant "Hunter," "Wrecker," and "Tech" later, but this one is dedicated to (in my opinion) the most interesting and creative-looking Bad Batch member.

Friday, October 23, 2020

Limerick Friday #483: Democracy's Defining Moment Is Upon Us -- Day 222


Trump, we gotta get rid of it
He turned us into a skid of shit
Biden's the plan
He's not Superman
Just not a fucking idiot

The switch to Tua on demand
The timing tough to understand 
After many losses and few wins
This is so very 'Fins
And couldn't be more on brand

Eldritch and eerie
Dramatic and dreary
Lovecraft overload, yo
A tome plus a TV show
Solace in a world made weary

If you voted for Trump once
We can talk about how you're a dunce
But if you vote for him twice
Can't make this sound nice
But you're fucking dead to me, cunts

"Rectify" a journey of the soul
Tackled massive issues whole
Tension for four seasons
A painful search for reasons
And why "justice" takes such a toll

Thursday, October 22, 2020

Day 221, Quasi-Quarantine: "Esperanza Rising" Reaches For Hope

"Do not ever be afraid to start over."

Pam Munoz Ryan's "Esperanza Rising" is a semi-biographical story of her grandmother's journey from Mexico to America, from luxury to poverty. The tale serves as a powerful exploration of family, hope, and rebirth. 

Esperanza's entire life and worldview is uprooted as she loses her quality of life, father, and grandmother in a short amount of time, then sees her mother fall deathly sick. She must redefine herself and her place in the world, testing her own capabilities and assumptions to find a way through.

A character named Carmen defines this new outlook that Esperanza can aspire to.

"I am poor, but I am rich. I have my children, I have a garden with roses, and I have my faith and the memories of those who have gone before me. What more is there?"

Though geared toward younger audiences (the clever titling, by fruits and vegetables to represent harvest times, will certainly appeal), the book does not shy away from powerful themes of immigration, environment, social justice, worker rights, and discrimination. 

"Esperanza Rising" is a beautifully rendered and thought-provoking story that is sure to spark lively discussion in elementary schools even 20 years after its publication.

"Esperanza reached for Miguel's hand and found it, and even though her mind was soaring to infinite possibilities, his touch held her heart to the earth."


Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Day 220, Quasi-Quarantine: Dolphins-Jets Game 6 Review

Miami pounded the hated Jets, 24-0, all but ending Adam Gase's failed tenure in New York, where he remains coach in name only after a similar stint with the 'Fins. While the big news surrounding Miami would arrive a couple of days later, it's important to remember that this evened the Dolphins record at .500 (3-3) headed into an all-important bye week, with Miami having emerged as a factor in the AFC after two victories by a combined 67-17 total.


Offense

  • Ryan Fitzpatrick's numbers were ho-hum in this game, with the grizzled vet hitting 18 of 27 passes for 191 yards and three scores. However, he held onto the ball longer than normal, threw two interceptions, and had a couple more dropped by the Jets. This was a game Miami should have won by 40 points, and Fitz was one of the reasons that didn't happen. The abysmal performance on third-down conversions (0-8) while he was in falls largely on his lap as well.
  • The big news was Tua Tagvailoa (finally) getting some reps at the end, connecting on both of his passes for 9 yards and a third-down conversion.
  • Myles Gaskin put together his best game, rushing for 91 yards on 18 carries and adding 35 yards on four receptions for good measure. Matt Breida had a hard time finding open space, tallying 22 yards on eight touches, while Lynn Bowden, Jr., and Jordan Howard weren't part of the plan.
  • DeVante Parker had a quiet game (three grabs, 35 yards) and Isaiah Ford was surprisingly held without a catch. Jakeem Grant (four receptions and 48 yards) stepped up, but Preston Williams (two grabs, 18 yards) was also quiet, despite a short touchdown that saw him run a great route.
  • The tight ends were big factors -- though not the one we've come to expect. Adam Shaheen reeled in another score and also contributed a 43-yard catch and run that he probably should have converted into another touchdown. His 51 receiving yards led the team, while fellow tight end Durham Smythe scored his first career touchdown on a four-yard grab. Somewhat shockingly, Mike Gesicki was held without a reception.
  • The offensive line struggled to hold up in this one, with the Jets defensive front collapsing the pocket and getting into passing lanes. On the plus side, a few counter plays led to some nice gains in the run game with Gaskin.

Defense

  • The Dolphins are starting to turn the corner from a pass-rush standpoint. End Emmanuel Ogbah gets better every week, and he was near-dominant in this one, collecting two sacks and four hits on the quarterback to go with his five tackles. Christian Wilkins was active as well, with five tackles, a sack, two batted passes, and a hit on the signal-caller.
  • On the interior, Zach Sieler continues his strong play, recording three tackles, including one for a loss, plus a hit on the quarterback.
  • Any time your defense posts a shutout in an NFL game, your linebackers have played well, and that was the case here. Jerome Baker (six tackles) and Elandon Roberts (three tackles, tackle for loss, QB hit) were solid on the inside, but Sam Eguavoen gave the unit a real lift (two tackles, a batted pass, and a handful of pressures) for the first time this year. Developing Andrew Van Ginkel suffered an injury, but did post two tackles and was active off the edge.
  • Safeties Eric Rowe (nine tackles) and Bobby McCain (four stops, pass breakup, QB hit, but a continued propensity for celebrating tackles 11 yards down the field) were always around the ball, and versatile Nik Needham (seven tackles) had one of his better games. Rookie Brandon Jones (three tackles, one stop for a loss) is improving rapidly, making a huge third-down stop in this one and breaking up a pass that should have been a pick-six.
  • Byron Jones settled into an efficient day at one corner after a rocky start that saw him get beat deep twice on New York's first drive. Xavien Howard is in full "X" mode, making a pick for the fourth straight game and nearly reeling in a second.

Special Teams

  • Kicker Jason Sanders was (fortunately) not needed much in this one, but stayed perfect with a 24-yard field goal and all three extra points. He also continued to be a weapon on kickoffs, at one point helping to pin the Jets inside their own 10-yard line on a kickoff.
  • Matt Haack had a nice performance in the punting phase, pinning New York inside the 20-yard line on five of his seven punts.
  • Jakeem Grant had his best return day, piling up 106 yards on seven kickoff and punt returns. His 30-yard punt return saw him reverse field nicely, and he nearly broke another punt return -- a good sign for his long-term prospects to hold down this role.

Momentum Plays

  • The first scoring drive was all about Gaskin, who racked up 47 yards on five touches to set up Shaheen's easy score.
  • A mysterious (and late) illegal contact call on Van Ginkel converted a third-and-12 for the Jets on the next drive, but a snap that Joe Flacco wasn't expecting was a very Jets third-down play that both ended a drive and pushed the team out of field goal range.
  • Taking advantage of a poor New York punt and a facemask call on the same play, Miami mixed the run and pass beautifully on the next drive, with Fitz hitting Williams for the 14-0 lead.
  • The Dolphins had two more drives start in New York territory, but somehow managed to get zero points out of either.
  • Grant's 30-yard punt return set up Miami later, and after Shaheen's 43-yard catch and rumble, Smythe was wide open for the 21-0 advantage.
  • Fitz took two late hits on the same play just before the half, the second of which could have easily led to an ejection. A few plays later, Fitz threw a brutal red zone pick with 22 seconds left, taking potential points off the board.
  • The second half was mostly a wasteland of punts, but a solid Miami drive in the third quarter put the team facing a 3rd-and-1 from the 7-yard line. Instead of running, Fitz rifled a pass high for Smythe in the end zone, forcing a short Sanders field goal for the 24-0 margin.

Miami 24, New York Jets 0 (3-3)

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Day 219, Quasi-Quarantine: Bolstering Our Inventory Of Disguised Bounting Hunters With Tamtel Skreej


The image of Lando Calrissian infiltrating Jabba the Hutt's palace in a quest to liberate his frenemy Han Solo holds an iconic place in Star Wars lore.

Lando going undercover as bounty hunter/hired gun Tamtel Skreej got the Lego minifigure treatment when he was introduced in 2006 as part of Jabba's Sail Barge set (6210).

Tamtel reappeared in 2012 -- slightly redesigned in a worse way, in my opinion -- as part of the Desert Skiff set (9496). This minifigure has now joined our collection, depicting Tamtel armed with a vibro-ax to carry out various Tattooine-related missions.

Collecting minifigures in this way can be pricey, but not nearly as expensive as purchasing retired sets at insane price points and ending up with a number of duplicate minifigures.

For now, we're satisfied with this addition -- and the memory of Tamtel's hilarious scream when he is seized by a tentacle of the Sarlacc.


In happier, pre-Sarlacc-causing-pants-crapping days. 


Thursday, October 15, 2020

Day 214, Quasi-Quarantine: "Quiet" Explores The Silent Struggle Of The Introvert


"Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking" is the book I never knew I needed to read.

Author Susan Cain offers a meticulously researched and widely sourced work, but injects charm and real-life examples to distance the book from being just a long academic paper. The result is a fascinating read that becomes, on some level, empowering. 

Why empowering? Because it can be a bit jarring to see yourself described so closely in a work created by someone who has never met you.

"Introverts, in contrast, may have strong social skills and enjoy parties and business meetings, but after a while wish they were home in their pajamas. They prefer to devote their social energies to close friends, colleagues, and family. They listen more than they talk, think before they speak, and often feel as if they express themselves better in writing than in conversation. They tend to dislike conflict. Many have a horror of small talk, but enjoy deep discussions."

Whether we realize it or not, we're all subjected to the vagaries of the extrovert-introvert balance (or imbalance) in our work lives. Cain hits on some of the concepts that have swung too far in the extrovert direction ("Open-plan offices have been found to reduce productivity and impair memory.") in an effort to force teamwork and collaboration.

Cain's list of life hacks at the end speaks directly to anyone who has been overwhelmed and pre-emptively exhausted by the idea of team-building retreats, mandatory happy hours (think about that phrase for a second), or forced work gatherings. 

"Don't expect introverts to get jazzed up about open office plans or, for that matter, lunchtime birthday parties or team-building retreats. Make the most of introverts' strengths -- these are the people who can help you think deeply, strategize, solve complex problems, and spot canaries in your coal mine."

"Over-arousal doesn't produce anxiety so much as the sense that you can't think straight -- that you've had enough and would like to go home now."

Crucially, the author makes a strong distinction between shyness and introversion. The two are often conflated, and Cain urgently and concretely disagrees, while also taking issue with the loaded term "antisocial."

"Shyness is the fear of social disapproval or humiliation, while introversion is a preference for environments that are not overstimulating. Shyness is inherently painful; introversion is not."

"Probably the most common -- and damaging -- misunderstanding about personality type is that introverts are antisocial and extroverts are pro-social. But as we've seen, neither formulation is correct; introverts and extroverts are differently social."

Cain reveals and expands on some universal truths that have chased many introverts throughout life, uncovering the many strengths and gifts that can be shared if an effort is made to engage this person on their level. 

The author's personal travails lend personality to the work, letting her voice shine through that elevates the work from thesis to conversation. It's clear that Cain has developed, tried, and tested various approaches to moving through the world as an introvert, and she is all too eager to share advice and guidance for what can work.

"Spend your free time the way you like, not the way you think you're supposed to. Stay home on New Year's Eve if that's what makes you happy. Skip the committee meeting. Cross the street to avoid making aimless chitchat with random acquaintances."

I'm recommending "Quiet" to so many people to I know, propelled by the simple, "quiet" comparison Cain makes in her extraordinary book in her quest for usable definitions.

"It's as if extroverts are seeing 'what is' while their introverted peers are asking 'what if.'"


Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Day 213, Quasi-Quarantine: Dolphins-49ers Game 5 Review

The 'Fins put together their finest performance in years, pummeling a well-thought-of San Francisco squad on their own field, 43-17. Miami had shining moments in all phases to push their record to 2-3 and change the tenor of its entire season. With a veteran quarterback, a developing offensive line, and what seems to be turning into a Brian Flores defense, the Dolphins could become a factor in the AFC.


Offense

  • Ryan Fitzpatrick largely shut it down in the second half, but the damage was done by that point, as he rolled to a shockingly easy 350 yards and three scores. He didn't have to rely on scrambles as much as previous weeks, which was good to see.
  • On the quibble front, I still would've liked to see Tua get a series in this one. Blowouts are hard to come by in the NFL and I remain a believer that occasional reps can still be learning opportunities for young QBs.
  • Fitz's scrambles were diminished due to strong pass protection by an offensive line playing against a strong defensive front. The fact that Miami was able to do so without starting left tackle Austin Jackson was borderline amazing. The 'Fins shifted right tackle Jesse Davis to the left side and plugged yet another rookie, Robert Hunt, into the fray at right tackle. It's clear that new offensive coordinator Steve Marshall is paying big dividends with this young unit.
  • The running backs were productive and more balanced, with Myles Gaskin racking up 91 yards on 21 touches (including his first score of the year) and Matt Breida adding 59 yards on 10 touches. Breida took some massive hits, but he also ripped off a 31-yard catch and run against his former team.
  • Miami deactivated Jordan Howard in this one, instead giving Lynn Bowden, Jr., more reps in multiple Wildcat looks. Bowden largely replaced Howard in short-yardage situations, contributing just four yards, but a couple of key first downs. Fullback Chandler Cox delivered a key goal-line block on Gaskin's TD run, and he even added a 6-yard catch.
  • Tight end Mike Gesicki was back to top form, grabbing five balls for 91 yards, with an impressive 70-yard catch and run the highlight. Former Bear Adam Shaheen also got on the board with a three-yard touchdown catch for his first Dolphins score.
  • The 'Fins routinely attacked San Francisco deep on back-shoulder sideline throws. Preston Williams and DeVante Parker combined to average 26 yards a catch, with Williams doing most of the damage with 106 yards and a score. Isaiah Ford was quiet with two catches, but both were important grabs in key moments. Jakeem Grant had a forgettable day, dropping a pass, losing 12 yards on a run, and muffing a punt.
  • Overall, the time of possession favored Miami, 36:53 to 23:07, making this one feel like one of the easiest and most painless games the 'Fins have had in years. 

Defense
  • The Dolphins had a tremendous defensive game plan in this one, mixing up looks and well-disguised blitzes to get consistent pressure on both 49ers signal-callers. In all, Miami had five sacks, seven pass breakups, and eight hits on the quarterback.
  • The defensive line was playing without starting end Shaq Lawson, but Emmanuel Ogbah picked up the slack, continuing his strong play. He and emerging tackle Zack Sieler had sacks up front, with Ogbah also forcing a fumble.
  • Lawson's absence led to more reps for Andrew Van Ginkel, who was extremely active with six tackles, a sack, 1.5 tackles for losses, and a QB hit. He also forced a fumble that Christian Wilkins (finally) recovered. Though undersized, Van Ginkel is a tenacious rusher, and he may be playing his way into more sub packages.
  • From the linebacker position, Jerome Baker had a much-needed good game, registering eight tackles, a sack, a tackle for loss, and two hits on the QB. It was also good to see Elandon Roberts make an impact, as he played a role on a fourth-down stop and also notched a sack.
  • The secondary had its best game, with strong coverage and constantly making plays on the ball. It's no coincidence that the return of Byron Jones -- and a much smaller role for Noah Igbinoghene -- happened on this afternoon. Xavien Howard and Bobby McCain reeled in interceptions to set up Dolphins scores, and Eric Rowe played extremely well against San Francisco's all-world tight end, George Kittle.
  • On the quibble side of things, Miami struggled with Raheem Mostert all game long, as he ripped of 119 yards on just 14 touches, many of the broken-tackle and steamrolling variety. The 49ers had to go away from him as a big part of the game plan when they fell behind, but the 'Fins still aren't there yet on the tackling front.

Special Teams
  • Jason Sanders continued his Pro Bowl-lock level of play, drilling five more field goals and all four extra points while consistently getting touchbacks on kickoffs. What is the record for field goals in a two-game stretch in NFL history? Because Sanders has 10 in the last couple of games, and while that's not a great look for the red zone offense, it speaks to his reliability -- and that's a great feeling of security for any coach to have.
  • Punter Matt Haack had a quiet day with just two punts. His 53-yarder was more than offset by a shanked 31-yarder that would have been an uglier moment in a closer game.
  • Grant's muffed punt could have turned out much worse. He's still a threat on both punt and kickoff returns, but I remain interested in seeing Bowden in one of these roles.

Momentum Plays
  • After a three-and-out on defense to start the game, Fitz took a shot down the left sideline to Williams, who reeled in the 47-yarder on Miami's first offensive play. If Williams keeps his feet there it's an easy score, but the play set the tone for how aggressive the Dolphins were going to be in this one.
  • Ford's leaping catch converted a key 3rd and 11 later in the drive, setting up Shaheen's score and an early Miami lead.
  • After Ogbah and Roberts snuffed San Francisco's fourth-down attempt on the ensuing drive, Fitz hit Parker down the sideline for 28 more, leading to Gaskin's TD run and a 14-0 advantage.
  • Miami stopped San Francisco again on the following drive, but Grant fumbled a fair catch on the punt. Fortunately, the ball bounced directly back to him, allowing him to recover the ball and avoid a disastrous play with the 'Fins seemingly in control.
  • In the second quarter, a Mostert-led drive resulted in an untouched run by the 49ers fullback (not spelling his name), cutting the lead in half at 14-7. However, Fitz avoided a sack and ran for 16 yards on the following possession, the key play in a drive that saw him catch fire with strikes to G-Sick, Williams, and finally, Parker for a pretty 22-yard sideline score to make it 21-7.
  • After another defensive stop, Fitz hit G-Sick for a 70-yard rumble, but Fitz took a red zone sack and was cautious afterward, setting up Sanders for a 24-7 lead at the 2-minute warning.
  • Picks by McCain and Howard on ill-advised and confusing attempts by Jimmy Garappalo led to his benching and a couple more Sanders three-pointers and a 30-7 Dolphins lead at halftime. The coaching decisions to have the 49ers still be aggressive in those situations was baffling, to say the least.
  • Two horrific third-down calls against Miami's defense pretty much gave the 49ers a touchdown to start the second half, but the Dolphins faked a punt for a narrow first down on the following drive, which culminated with a perfect Fitz strike to Williams despite being hit by a San Francisco blitzer. The drive effectively nullified any possible 49ers momentum, pushing the score to 37-14.
  • Another San Francisco drive was propelled by shaky calls on the Miami secondary, leading one to wonder whether the refs were betting the spread in this one. However, Baker followed up a sack with a third-down stop, and the 'Niners settled for a field goal as the third quarter end at 37-17.
  • The Dolphins largely turned to the running game at that point, mixing Breida, Gaskin, and Bowden attempts to run clock and set the table for Sanders to convert two more field goals for the final margin of 43-17.


Miami 43, San Francisco 17 (2-3)

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Day 212, Quasi-Quarantine, Sounds Of Social Distancing: Fontaines D.C. Follow Up Smashing Debut In Style

I've discussed Fontaines D.C. previously, and especially how the Dublin group emerged as the soundtrack to my early days of the pandemic.

The post-punkers returned in short order, releasing "A Hero's Death" at the end of July. This second album was largely written while the band toured in support of the stellar "Dogrel."

"I Don't Belong" and the title track carry most of the weight here, but "I Was Not Born" is a personal favorite. "Televised Mind" and "A Lucid Dream" are other standouts.

The album itself feels less frantic and more introspective than "Dogrel," and lead singer Grian Chatten has described the single "A Hero's Death" as "a list of rules for the self." Written in the crucible of touring, maybe the album is a commentary on the pushback needed when newfound fame is thrust upon you, along with the attendant leeches who all want a piece of you.

No matter the inspiration, the Irish boys sound as tight and urgent as ever, pulling together a worthy follow-on to their stunning debut.


Monday, October 12, 2020

Day 211, Quasi-Quarantine: Greedo Missed First

 A Rodian bounty hunter best known for running missions for Jabba the Hutt, Greedo is a memorable and beloved "Star Wars" character. In fact, his iconic status in relationship to his actual screen time -- less than a minute, probably -- is way out of whack. 

However, he's launched memes and spirited debates ("Han shot first," anyone?) across and beyond the Star Wars galaxy.

Originally introduced in 2004, his actual minifigure has undergone some redesigns, mostly related to color and the vest he's wearing. He appears in only three sets, all variants of the Mos Eisley Cantina where he eventually met his demise at the hands of Han Solo. 

My building partner is going through a fascination with bounty hunters, so Greedo was deemed a necessary addition. After much searching, we found a suitable purchase.

We look forward to re-creating scenes where Greedo can demonstrate his ability to hit targets from farther than 3 feet away.


Friday, October 09, 2020

Limerick Friday #482: We Should All Be Rebels -- Day 208


To Kanan we said goodbye
Swear I didn't cry
Then Ezra did sacrifice
Not once, but twice
"Star Wars Rebels" ended on a high

A guitar master
Nobody played faster
His genius will last
Eddie Van Halen has passed
Latest evidence 2020 is a disaster

Fooling zombies with a hood
Nothing unfolds as it should
As we near November
I'm old enough to remember
When "The Walking Dead" was good

A road win nice to see
For Dave Doeren and me
Say it quiet
So I can deny it
But the Pack may have a QB

He raged and wheezed
A prez who's diseased
Both physically not OK
And in a very mental way
And the lies never even eased


Thursday, October 08, 2020

Day 207, Quasi-Quarantine: Dolphins-Seahawks Game 4 Review

To continue a recurring theme, the 'Fins are getting closer. Miami was in a dogfight with one of the NFC's top teams until the final stretch, when the Seahawks established some breathing room. 

Not to oversimplify matters, but in games like this one, the bottom line is that one team has Russell Wilson and one team doesn't.


Offense

  • This was the game that officially launched the Tua Watch. Ryan Fitzpatrick, frankly, was off for most of the game. He could easily have thrown four first-half interceptions if not for Seattle drops, and he seemed to miss more open receivers than usual. Fitz gonna Fitz, so he did contribute momentum-building scrambles and kept the 'Fins in striking distance, but his performance on a day that saw Miami fall two games under .500 was cause for concern.
  • The lack of balance caught up with Miami here, as Fitz had to wing it 45 times and looked a bit dead-armed at times. Is this why the offense makes no attempts to stretch the field anymore?
  • To be fair, Fitz got little help from the offensive line, which took a step back in this one. There were very few holes in the running game and Fitz often looked as if he had to throw it a couple of beats earlier than he wanted due to pressure, even though Seattle only had a single sack.
  • As much as an offensive guard can, Solomon Kindley continues to stand out as a tone-setter on offense. He's fun to watch for an interior offensive lineman.
  • Mike Gesicki was bracketed for much of the game and held to a single catch, taking away a key target for Fitz. Durham Smythe did catch a couple of balls, but as a big, physical tight end, I'd like to see him challenge defenders instead of running out of bounds.

  • Matt Breida showed his speed on a 26-yard catch and run of a short pass, but he missed a hole on another run. It seems he's struggling to earn the confidence of the staff, but his playmaking ability is much-needed on an offense with few of them.
  • Speaking of playmakers, Lynn Bowden, Jr., made his first Miami appearance, making a 5-yard run on a Wildcat look. The idea that he is at least being added to certain packages adds some measure of hope.
  • DeVante Parker continues to show his maturation as a complete receiver, working underneath routes and consistently showing good post-catch ability. His 10 grabs for 110 yards were complemented by Isaiah Ford's four catches for 48 yards.
  • Preston Williams continues to struggle, held to a single catch for 15 yards and a two-point conversion. Miami's current one-dimensional, underneath passing game does not play to his strengths.
  • I type this every week, but Myles Gaskin had to run much bigger than his size for a hard-earned 40 yards, and he added three catches. Breida had six touches for 48 yards, while Jordan Howard had three touches for -1 yards.

Defense

  • Another ugly outing by the linebacking corps, marked by missed tackles. After a strong effort vs. Jacksonville, Kyle Van Noy was missing in action, and it's become clear that this unit performs as well as he does.
  • Christian Wilkins occasionally lined up at defensive end, and it would appear that Miami is looking for ways to jumpstart his play.
  • Bobby McCain was extremely active on safety blitzes, forcing Russell Wilson to throw the ball away a couple of times. It was good to see the staff trying to manufacture pressure that the defensive front has struggled to provide.
  • In general, Chris Carson met little to no resistance until he was past the line of scrimmage on way too many of his runs. As a big back, he's hard enough to bring down without a head of steam.
  • Ends Emmanuel Ogbah and Shaq Lawson flashed at times -- especially Ogbah -- but more consistent play is needed across the entire defensive front.
  • Zach Seiler continues to steal reps on the defensive interior with his hard play, but Wilkins and Davon Godchaux need to step up in big ways.
  • The secondary struggled, but to be fair, Wilson had so much time to throw that Seattle's receivers were going to be open no matter what.


Special Teams

  • Shockingly, Matt Haack only had to punt once, pointing up how effective Miami's offense was between the 20s.
  • What can you say about Jason Sanders? His bid for the Pro Bowl continued, as he converted all five field goal attempts. His longest was only 45 yards, though, revealing how inept the Dolphins were inside the red zone.
  • Jakeem Grant had an 11-yard punt return, but that was the only opportunity. As his role in the base offense expands (3 catches vs. Seattle), maybe Bowden will finally join the return fray.

Momentum Plays

  • A couple of plays into the game, left tackle Austin Jackson got beat, leading to a bad Fitz throw for a pick that Seattle quickly turned into a score 5 minutes into the game.
  • On Miami's next drive, Fitz was whistled for crossing the line of scrimmage before finding G-Sick for a nice gain. The announcers said that the 'Fins should have reviewed the play, as Fitz made a legal throw in this instance.
  • On a promising Dolphins drive, Fitz got hot, hitting four nice passes in a row. However, a phantom holding call on Ereck Flowers on a well-constructed screen play followed by an uncalled personal foul on Seattle forced a Miami field goal to make it 7-3.
  • Zero pass rush gave Wilson all day on the ensuring drive, and only a rare dropped pass by Tyler Lockett held the Seahawks to a 54-yarder for a 10-3 lead as the fourth quarter ended.
  • An uncalled facemask on Seattle followed by another dropped Fitz interception on a terrible throw led to another Jason Sanders three-pointer to make it 10-6.
  • A big hit by Jamal Perry jarred a touchdown from Seattle's Greg Olsen, but after Miami declined a holding call on the play, the Seahawks went for it on 4th. A huge sack by Ogbah gave the ball back to the 'Fins and created momentum.
  • The following drive related on short throws to the backs and tight ends to move into the red zone, but Fitz missed an open receiver, creating yet another Sanders field goal to make it 10-9 with 24 seconds left in the first half.
  • A busted coverage by rookie corner Noah Iggy (I'm not spelling his name every week) led to a wide-open long ball from Wilson to David Moore, covering 57 yards. With zero pressure, Wilson had all day to find a tight end in the end zone with just three seconds left to stake Seattle to a 17-9 lead -- a brutal turn of events that proved to be the play of the game and a devastating gut punch after a respectable first half.
  • At the end of a long and potentially game-seizing Seattle drive to start the send half, 'Fins corner Xavien Howard jumped a route by Metcalf to make an end zone interception and give the Dolphins life.
  • Miami's next drive featured the full 'Fins brand: underneath passes, desperate dives for first downs, and emotional Fitz runs. Predictably, it faltered in the red zone, so the Dolphins trotted Sanders out yet again to cut the lead to 17-12.
  • After an exchange of punts, Miami got underway again, relying on Isaiah Ford and Gaskin to get in scoring range. However, an inexplicable play call that saw Gaskin try to turn the corner on a delayed handoff on 3rd-and-3 led to a FIFTH field goal to make it 17-15 with 8:31 left.
  • A textbook Seahawks followed, with Wilson throwing darts, including a back-corner throw to beat Iggy on a play that saw Miami have 12 men on the field anyway. Seattle jumped ahead, 24-15, with 5:24 remaining.
  • The Dolphins tried to mount a drive, but right tackle Jesse Davis was beat, leading to an ugly Fitz pick. Missed tackles plagued Miami on the ensuing drive, and when Carson punched it in to make it 31-15 with just 4 minutes left, the game was all but over.
  • The 'Fins frantically raced down the field, punctuated by Fitz's shoulder-lowering scramble for a touchdown and a conversion to Williams to cut it to 31-23 with 1:50 left.
  • Miami had Carson stopped on a pivotal third-down play on the following drive, but he was randomly given a first down, allowing Seattle to kneel on it the rest of the way.

2020 Schedule
Seattle 31, Miami 23

Wednesday, October 07, 2020

Day 206, Quasi-Quarantine, Sounds Of Social Distancing: Music Of Short-Lived Cayetana Built To Last


The indie/pop punk trio Cayetana has been on spin for me for a few weeks now, adeptly summing up our new normal with their frantic urgency.

Powered by Augusta Koch's vocals and guitar, Allegra Anka's bass, and Kelly Olsen's drums, this Philly band emerged on the scene in 2014 with their landmark album "Nervous Like Me." The album included scorchers "Dirty Laundry," "Mountain Kids," "Scott Get the Van, I'm Moving," "Hot Dad Calendar," and "South Philly."

Cayetana first came to my attention when I found a split they were on with another of my favorite recent bands, Camp Cope. "Trails" and "Mesa" were the Cayetana highlights from that work.

The band followed up with "New Kind of Normal" in 2017, highlighted by "Bus Ticket" and "Certain for Miles." Two other standouts for me include a memorable cover of New Order's "Age of Consent" and a live version of "Freedom 1313."

Unfortunately, the trio broke up after a final show in Philly in August 2019. However, these musicians are too talented not to pop up in other bands and projects in the future.


Tuesday, October 06, 2020

Day 205, Quasi-Quarantine: The Quick-Hitting Impact Of "Citizen: An American Lyric"


"And you are not the guy and still you fit the description because there is only one guy who is always the guy fitting the description."

Claudia Rankine's "Citizen: An American Lyric" is marked by powerful imagery that complements her message in striking ways.

The mix of poetry, news accounts, free-writing, and art in this collection makes for a strong message that meanders at times. Rankine's work is a quick, absorbing read that sucks you in and celebrates the various media that can be called to action to convey a sensibility and identity.

"Sitting there staring at the closed garage door you are reminded that a friend once told you there exists the medical term -- John Henryism -- for people exposed to stresses stemming from racism. They achieve themselves to death trying to dodge the buildup of erasure."

While I didn't feel the author's use of Serena Williams interaction with line judges in tennis was the most pertinent and relatable example of racism, the book itself makes a resonant statement on the status of race relations in the United States.

Rankine's writing joins the catalog of worthy resources that are critical to developing an understanding of not just our current national moment, but the murky backroads that have led us here.

"It is not only confrontation that is headache-inducing; it is also that you have a destination that doesn't include acting like this moment isn't inhabitable, hasn't happened before, and the before isn't part of the now as the night darkens and the time shortens between where we are and where we are going."


Monday, October 05, 2020

Day 204, Quasi-Quarantine: Dolphins-Jaguars Game 3 Review


Seeing the 'Fins pull off a no-stress win on Thursday Night Football while you're at the beach is kind of how I wish more football viewing could go down. The Dolphins moved to 1-2 with a shockingly dominant performance against a team that had surprised many in the first two weeks of the season.


Offense

  • It's hard to remember a time when the Dolphins started out a game with two drives as impressive as they did in establishing a 14-0 lead here.
  • Myles Gaskin was a workhorse, getting 11 touches combined on Miami's first two drives of the day. I question how long he can hold up to that kind of workload and hope the 'Fins spread the ball around a bit more, but he's emerged as a key cog in the offense.
  • Most 'Fins fans have been calling for more Matt Breida, myself included. However, he is half-stepping on some of his runs, and I don't think that's gonna fly behind this work-in-progress offensive line. That may be why he's getting limited work.
  • According to the announcers, DeVante Parker was intent on playing even hurt, and he made a number of key grabs and drew a pass interference in the end zone.
  • After a shaky start to the season, it was good to see Preston Williams reel in a perfect pass for a score from Ryan Fitzpatrick.
  • Jakeem Grant had a 29-yard end-around, a 19-yard diving catch, and 45 yards on kick returns. The more ways Miami can find to get him the ball in space, the better.
  • Speaking of the gunslinger, this was peak FitzMagic. He was scrambling, whirling, side-arming, directing traffic, catching his own damn passes, and essentially serving notice that he wasn't going to be stopped in this one.
  • Fitz has really gained trust in emerging tight end Mike Gesicki, hitting him with a beautiful look-off TD toss and coming his way several other times in this one.
  • Miami's OL is showing signs of jelling, and a dude that stands out as a mauler is rookie Solomon Kindley. If he and Austin Jackson pan out as the early returns indicate, it could be a Richmond Webb-Keith Sims kind of draft for the Dolphins. Those two bring a mean streak that this offense has been begging for for years.

Defense

  • Overall, the Dolphins seem to find something in this game defensively. Granted, it came against Jax, but the unit seemed to settle in here and play with a level of physically that has, frankly, been missing.
  • This was a game when the free agents finally emerged: Shaq Lawson, Emmanuel Ogbah, and Kyle Van Noy all put their stamp on this contest.
  • It was good to see Miami finally generate some pressure, and the 'Fins seemed to seize control of the game when they began blitzing Gardner Minshew consistently.
  • After a brutal second game, Noah Igbinoghene made a couple of pivotal third-down stops against Jax. Everyone around the franchise would love to see the first-rounder build some confidence around this effort.
  • Interior defender Zach Sieler has been earning more and more reps, and he has consistently flashed with more opportunities. At 6-6, 297 pounds, he could turn into an important piece in this D.
  • While this was a better showing, Miami still needs help in the linebacking corps. My sense is they're still having to give excessive reps to guys who are best on special teams at this level.
  • I know Eric Rowe is a favorite of the coaching staff, but it feels like he's been a liability in tackling and coverage thus far this year.
  • While it was good to see Xavien Howard pull in his first pick in a while, he still seems to be tentative on the field at times. His body language and lack of hustle have stuck out to me on occasion.

Special Teams

  • Punter Matt Haack mishit one of his four punts, but he put two inside the 20-yard line. He looks improved from last year.
  • Kicker Jason Sanders made all four of his extra points and a 30-yard field goal, continuing his strong start. The best news here was Miami converted so many red zone opportunities into touchdowns that he wasn't much needed.
  • Grant's 19-yard punt return was the highlight in the return game, but he did have another nifty return called back on a penalty.

Momentum Plays

  • Grant's diving catch of a slightly errant Fitzy throw was a vital play on the opening TD drive.
  • After a relatively easy TD counter by Jax to knot it at 7, Fitz had two straight runs -- including a fourth-down effort where he had to lower the shoulder for the first -- on Miami's ensuing touchdown drive.
  • Breida drew a shaky pass interference on a circle route, setting up Fitzy's 11 straight completion, a beautiful strike to G-Sick to stake Miami to a 21-7 lead.
  • Bobby McCain, Jamal Perry, and Van Noy all dropped potential interceptions, but Miami did force a turnover when Van Noy pulled the triple play of sack, forced fumble, and fumble recovery.
  • After Gesicki drew a pass interference in the end zone, Fitz again lowered the shoulder on a QB draw for the score that turned it into a runaway, 28-7.
  • Minshew missed a wide-open receiver who would have cut it to 28-14, but pressure by Van Noy on the play forced the mustachioed one to airmail it 5 yards over the receiver's head. Iggy was burned badly on the play.
  • The 'Fins got sacks on two of three plays to set up Sanders's field goal and the final points at 31-13.

2020 Schedule
Miami 31, Jacksonville 13

Friday, October 02, 2020

Limerick Friday #481: The Shore Helped For Sure -- Day 201


A much-needed saltwater break
In a setting you can't fake
The waves roll
Recharging the soul
Healing in the wake

Like grunts in a cave
The ignoramus does rant and rave
No ideas or thoughts on how
Is this who we are now?
Or is there something left to save?

'The Fins have been the pits
Playing like they have the shits
Improvement's on the way
But I just have to say
'Tis a joy to watch Ryan Fitz

Up and to the left it winded
Sickness and helplessness it binded
It sees no party lines
Or logic landmines
'Rona preys on the weak-minded

Crispness in hints
And nip-in-the-air stints
It's just a tinge
No pumpkin spice binge
But enough to give hope imprints

Thursday, October 01, 2020