Records continue to fall at the feet of Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts. As Peyton was wrapping up a 12th straight win this season, he and the Colts were also tying the Patriots 2006-2007 record of 21 straight regular season wins.
Meanwhile elsewhere in the NFL those very same Patriots were falling to the Dolphins in Miami by 1 point in a crucial AFC-East match-up. Making their records New England 7-5 and Miami 6-6. The Jets are also 6-6and still in the hunt in the AFC-East. Interesting side note: This is the 3rd game the Patriots have lost this season after having a lead of at least 10 points.
As I type these notes the Saints are trying to stay in the rarified air of undefeated bliss, with :18 seconds remaining in regulation in Washington the score is all knotted up at 30. Television coverage leaves and I have to go online to follow. Brees completes a pass and gets a first-down. Waiting for the painfully slow updates; the clock stands at :02 3rd down in Redskin territory at the 40, awaiting an impossibly long field goal kick attempt. The 58 yard attempt is short, and we're looking at overtime. I am one of 81,050 fans watching on-line as the quarter ends and overtime rules will be observed. Sudden death! 1st team to score wins. Brees and the Saints have first possession but fail to score, now the Skins are driving, but moving the ball poorly starting from their own 18 they reach their 39 with 3rd and 1. Great, the last play I described is under review...
The irony here would be a quarter played with neither team scoring and the Saints would still be technically undefeated, but Ties are extremely rare in the NFL.

O.K. back to the Colts while I wait for some news, Peyton Manning is the only quarterback to pass for 25 or more touchdowns in 12 consecutive years. What, you want more? The Colts are the only team in NFL history to win 11 or more games in 7 consecutive seasons. Coach Caldwell is the only coach in NFL history to win 12 games in a Rookie Coaching season, and obviously the only one to win his FIRST 12. Since the Colts never trailed in this game their NFL record 5 straight 4th quarter comeback wins ends today, and a lot of fans were able to breathe easier today.

Back to the tension in Washington, not that tension, the other tension. Washington coughs up the pigskin and the Saints recover; as I type the Saints are ready to go marching into the history books beside the Indianapolis Colts. First down at the Skins 14 with a full set of downs. Tick, tick... Now the Saints are on the Washington 6 with another set of downs and a possible but improbable 9:29 remaining in the OT period. Another play challenged and upheld, ball on Redskin 1, it's been 29 minutes since I started this blog, and the Saints finally kick the winning Field Goal. Two teams are still perfect 12-0 and the Saints clinch the NFC South title.
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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Last night on a national stage Tom Brady, Bill Belichik and the Patriots were challenged by the NFC's undefeated team, The New Orleans Saints.
The defense of the Saints had Tommy Boy confused and flustered for nearly the entire game. I say 'nearly' not because The Brilliant Bill Belichik figured out the schemes and mastered the Saints, but because Bill pulled his starters with over 4 minutes left in the game. The Pats quit. They conceded defeat and they took their toys and sat them on the bench. They couldn't recognize the Saints schemes or out wit their pass coverage with their premier receivers, so in came the towel.
Then to New Orleans credit the Saints went into a clock controlling ground game. If the tables had been turned the Pats would have gone on a scoring feeding frenzy, like their march through their 16-0 season where Bill kept Tommy in long after opponents were toast. Kept his starters in against unprepared or undermanned teams week after week with the intent to humble and humiliate.
It was nice to see Billy and the Pats humbled by the better team, and the undefeated team...AGAIN.
The message Belichik was sending during that (nearly) super season has returned in it's bottle. Like some groundhog's day scenario I hope Bill just keeps re-opening it again and again.
Be mad at the league and its teams because you were caught cheating. Get caught placing spies and recording equipment in other camps and practice facilities to get their plays, and just being a general nuisance and a giant ass. Teach them all a lesson afterwards with your defensive weapons and the Golden Prima Donna Tommy Boy and his elegant arm and stomp your opponents into submission without mercy, compassion or pity (long after they are beaten and conceded) and it will be remembered. It is remembered.
It's 4th and 2, there's the bottle and cork. Go for it Bill. Go for it!
Congrats to the Saints for playing a good game and staying undefeated after 11 games.
Maybe my 11-0 Colts will see you in the Big Game!
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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In 1859 Charles Dickens wrote "A Tale of Two Cities" about pre-revolution France and the plight of the peasantry under boot of the wealthy ruling aristocracy. The starting lines of this book can easily be applied to much of everyday life. "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times: it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness; it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity;..." One of the most quoted and misquoted introductions in literary history. Here I use it for another type of plight, for another epoch of both belief and of incredulity. 150 years later I bring you a recap. A Tale of Two Cities... A Tale of Two Halves.
I've been a Colts fan for far too long now to start sweating a game in the first half, I've seen all 41, no make that 42 come back 4th quarter wins form Peyton and his receiving and rushing cadre. I've seen ineptitude and greatness in the same game before. I made it to at least one game every year until last year, and have averaged three home games a year over the history of the Colts in Indianapolis. I've refused to leave any game where the Colts were within 10 points in the last 2 or 3 minutes, I've been both rewarded and disappointed for my team loyalty, but mostly rewarded. Sunday's game against The Texans in Houston was a rewarding experience, even if it was from the love-seat across from a HD TV. I didn't get up for anything during that 4th quarter. Another 4th quarter comeback, another record. This time not a two or three point squeeker win on the final drive, but a 21 point Colts 4th quarter; with passing, rushing and defensive scores. The 35-27 score was not as close as the scoreboard would let on, the final drive by Houston was not so hotly contested by the Colts defense because only one team had Peyton Manning on it.
If there was going to be any 1st half cause for alarm it wasn't the Colts being shut out in the first quarter while Matt Schaub's execution was nearly perfect or the Texans passing or rushing touchdowns. The momentary panic trigger for some would have been Peyton's 1st play of the 2nd quarter, continuing a drive from the break, but being picked for the 1st turn over of the game. Houston was able to kick a field goal on the ensuing drive and led 17-0. The next drive got the Colts on the boards with a 9 yard Manning pass to Pierre Garçon, only to be countered by yet another Houston field goal. The Half ended with another Manning interception Houston 20, Indy 7. It was the best of times for The Texans, and a time of incredulity for Colts fans.

The Colts received the ball to start the 2nd half and quickly put the 1st half's age of foolishness behind them with an eleven play drive culminating in a 4 yard Manning to Reggie Wayne touchdown. On Houston's following drive Schaub was intercepted by Antoine Bethea, and the defense came awake and ready to play! The epoch of belief was beginning! The third quarter the Colt's defense pitched Houston a shut-out. Then came the 3 touchdown 4th quarter and a 15 point lead until The Texans mounted their final drive, after their score they attempted an onside kick and the Colts covered. Soon a knee was taken to end Houston's misery. Yes they were dispirited, we truly beat the Dickens out of them! 
Four hours later, with a nod to Fagin (and a little twist for Oliver) Jacksonville took a 14-3 drubbing at the "Stick" in San Francisco. The Colts are once again officially the AFC South Champions for the 6th time in 7 years and owners of the second longest winning streak with 20 straight, looking forward to Tennessee, another Division rival and another possible record at home next Sunday. 


Chuck Pace ©2009  |

-0
It's a good start. A record breaking start. Also pseudo-typical Colts start. Of course I am talking about the Indianapolis Colts 2009 season up to and including Sundays squeaker in Baltimore. I also have to reference the other team that is making just as much noise. The New Orleans Saints under the steady arm of Drew Brees. This is the first time in the storied history of the NFL that two teams have been undefeated after 10 games in the same year. This is also the first time that New Orleans has ever been 10-0 to start a season. This is not the first time for the Indianapolis Colts though, the 2005 version of the team started their season with 13 straight wins, and finished with a 14-2 regular season record.
In 2006 the Indianapolis Colts again started hot with 9 straight and eventually finished 12-4. The Indianapolis Colts have also posted 9 or more straight wins in other seasons, just not always from the start. Last years 9 in a row to finish of the regular season wraps around nicely to this years start, 19 consecutive regular season wins.
What does worry me in spite of the regular season prowess we are exhibiting is that we have been less than stellar in post season for most of our Manning era years.
At the end of the 13-3, 99 season (1/20/00) we lost the Divisional game to Tennessee at home 16-19 after winning the AFC East division. The next year after posting a 10-6 record we lost to AFC -East rival Miami 17-23 after making the Wild Card berth. What followed in 2001 was Manning's only other non-winning season(his 3-13 1998 rookie year being the other losing season).
In 2002's post season Indy faced another AFC East rival the New York Jets who quickly dispatched the Colts with a crushing 0-41 drubbing in the Meadowlands.
The 2003 season saw the Colts make their first legitimate run at greatness, winning the Wild Card at home against Denver 41-10, then taking the divisional round from Kansas City 38-31 to finally make it to an AFC Championship game. Bill Belichick's Patriots game plan to keep the ball out of Manning's hands worked so well that a desperate Manning forced 4 interceptions and only 1 touchdown and the Pats went on to the Superbowl after delivering a 14-24 defeat (and a historic Rivalry was born).
In the 2004 post season the Colts again defeated Denver in the Wild Card, and again lost to New England, this time in the second round. 2005 brought the Steelers to Indy in the Divisional game where Pittsburgh won 18-21.
The 2006 post-season started to look a lot like 2003 all over again as the Colts had to go from Wild Card to Division to Championship games again.
This time Kansas City -in the Wild Card- fell to the Colts 28-3, then the Horseshoes were off to Baltimore. The Ravens where next with their 15-6 loss. So the Colts came back home for the Championship game. On January 21st 2007 the Colts finally got the Belichick Monkey off their backs defeating, no deflating Tom Brady and the Patriots 38-34 and earning plane tickets to Miami for the Superbowl.
Superbowl XLI was not as close as the score would lead one to believe and the Colts took home the trophy with a 29-17 victory.
The next two years the team sent down in one post season game again, losing the divisional game at home against San Diego in 2007 24-28, and again losing in San Diego in the Wild Card game to end all hopes in 2008.

So try as I might to be slap-happy I still know that even a 16-0 regular season does not mean a Super ending. If I didn't already know that, then I learned nothing from watching Tom Brady and his Patriots crash and burn after their historic 16-0 regular season in 2007, plus 2 more victories in post season, before eventually falling to the Giants in Superbowl XLII (back to back Manning Brother SB wins) and ending 18-1, and failing to seal the deal!
So more important than the "streak" is when you streak, like all the way through the post season, like in 2006! Yes an undefeated run would be nice, bit it is not a necessity.
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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Parts and Pieces: Part 1 (of many)
You say your old car is a piece of junk. That is usually not true in the purest sense. Many components are still valuable, probably most even, it's just that as collective they are not playing well with each other. Rebuilding any old car, say circa 1986, you are going to run into some parts deficiencies. You can't just walk into an Auto-Zone or O'Reiily Auto parts and say hey I need four stabilizer bar linkage isolator bushings, and two control arm bushings for my BMW E-28, and expect them to look at you like you didn't just say that in German. They will give it the old Yankee try on their computer, after you explain that an E-28 is a BMW 5 series body with one of 5 different engines and a couple of transmission options produced in Germany from 1982-1988. They will even show you the near misses as they work down to the part or parts that they can special order but none of the local stores seem to have it right now.

When I joined the BMW CCA (Car Club of America) three years ago I started getting their awesome Roundel Magazine monthly, this publication is on par with an Automotive magazine on store shelves, but is exclusive too and for BMW's and their owners. It was there in the pages of the Roundel that I have found several parts places that stock parts for my antique Ultimate Driving Machine (ultimately, ultimate driving machines have evolved as the ultimate bar as ultimately been risen several times in the past 24 years). The first choice for parts for any of my searches is Bavarian Autosport in Portsmouth New Hampshire, they have been compiling and remanufacturing and specializing in BMW and Mini parts for over 30 years. I will be expecting a package from "BavAuto" (as their license plates and other exclusive pasts and pieces proclaim them to be) today when I get back to work after a week off, where I did my fair share of crawler-ing and noodling on and under the Blue Frankenstein.
Two of the pieces in todays expected package are no bigger than a quarter apiece, but will result in untold happiness for me, they are the odometer gears that broke in my 85 E-28 right after I got it back on the road after 2+ years of parts searching. The odometer died at 302,075.1 miles and I have since then put at least 500 miles on it since then, so I've moved to odometer up manually (once I got the instrument cluster out of my dash) to 303,303 miles, since I do so love the palindrome in all it's guises.
Above: The E-28 instrument waits in the passenger floorboard to get "Geared Up!"
There are other pieces in that box too, including two control arm bushings for the right front suspension, and they were less than $13 apiece form BavAuto, way less than the $33 apiece I could have gotten in a week on special order from the local parts chains.
The neighbors have been asking, What's he building in there.
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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So I'm getting out of the garage for a few minutes, other things have been going on besides car concerns after all. This year is steam-rolling by with no one at the brakes.

One Chatterbox bowling league has ended and another resumed since I last bragged, or moaned about my Kegling abilities or shortfalls. Another 'Nothing Better To Do' league started as well, I still am a floating alternate (one of three for a single spot) in the NBTD league but have bowled twice in three weeks, and very likely will be on the hardwoods again tomorrow. I started the NTBD league on fire with a 519 series (on fire for me) and 173 average. In the Chatterbox league the next night I didn't fare so well, coming in at a 143 average. Now I don't believe in sand-bagging to establish a low average and higher handicap, which should be evident from the next two weeks scores. Week two I averaged 165 with a 496, and our team lost all 8 points in the contest. By week three my average for the night was a walloping 178, and my league average after 3 weeks 162, putting me in 4th place for regular league bowlersso far in this young league, and 6th counting Chris West (subs) one week 187 average to lead all keglers, and Jon Robinson's (subs) 3 week 184. Last Monday I was well on my way to a 600 series, starting with a 203, following with a 191 and ending a little weaker with a 1mumble,mumble.
My second series in the NTBD league (week 3) I averaged 183 for the night and now have a 178 average there, if I bowl again on Sunday my Monday scores will probably still be a bit under my Sunday efforts, since my arm is much more tired after Sunday's efforts. Ve shall zee., vot ve shall zee.

Chuck Pace ©2009 
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For the eleven or twelve people who still read my blogs on or around the third rock from the Sun I have a bit a of news about myself.
In the grand scheme of things it is less important than 5 generations of a single termites offspring in Africa releasing 5 parts per million of methane into the atmosphere in a decade, and effecting the global warming scenario, still, with billions of termites at work there is an effect on the global community. Me, I am still far less important that all the farts of a single African termite in its entire two year life cycle. Still, tonight I have reached a pinnacle of my own existence. My endeavors and accomplishments usually make no difference upon the lives of any of my family or friends, unless they bring more money or comfort into the body-collective experience as a whole.
I know that individual achievement is only relevant if it raises the experience of the collective as a unit, still I believe my own personal achievement may raise, enlighten and enrich the body politic, as it did the other citizens at the arena of my endeavor this night in the outmoded anglican calendar of the religious zealots of monotheism.
Pride may come before the fall, but it is still days before summer, so I might as well mention that tonight I bowled the best game of my 14 year league (sanctioned and unsanctioned) bowling "career."
Three years prior I achieved a high point, (kegling wise) with a mark of 257 for a single 10 frame bowling contest. Since then I have garnered only ten additional 20+ totals game scores within 12 different sanctioned and non-sanctioned bowling leagues. Never to again topple the 257 pinnacle for to better the life experience enjoyment of my fellow travelers.
Last week I entered the arena of bowling on East 10th. just south of Shadeland with a confidence and swagger not befitting my capabilities and proclaimed that I would have a 200 game that very evening. (it would be my first of the 5 weeks within the 12 week league) and low, I pulled a 206 out of my proverbial anus (I don't know which out-dated and illegal proverb per-say to attribute my collective achievement to this evening) in the very first contest of three. My teammates rallied and bolstered by my confidence and effort also improved their games and we won all 8 possible points in the contest of kegling of that evening.
With an undeserved pride in (individual) achievement, not altogether attributed to the entire citizenry, I did again this evening utter forth a proclamation that I would achieve an unheralded series collective score of above 600 as a cumulative score of three continuos bowling game endeavors.
The evenings first game started roughly only to end with a collective team effort triumphing over an equally deserving and capable opponent by just 8 pins (including a generous and system mandated handicap in an attempt to make all combatants truly equal). The second game saw the opponent team rally back and prevail by a 9 count and after two games the scores were separated by 1 pin, truly the equitable solution and system of handicapping was an accurate and a fair one. The final game in the trio of bouts found the opponent team players all failing to achieve their system ascribed averages while the team which I captain realized marked improvement ,with the first three players combining their efforts to overcome their cumulative averages by 29 pins, while I in the anchor position bested my average by 102 pins.
In the end we were able to prevail over our opponent team by a total score of 273 for three games with my (all new) best ever game of 268 and the rest of the teams collective efforts. Sadly I still failed in my unnecessary boisterous claim of achieving a 600 series with my final tally for all three games weighing in at only 597.

Chuck Pace ©2009 
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Well it's less than 24 hours away. The Road-Trip to Bristol Tennessee. We will be going in style, taking Rich's parents Motorhome to Shadrack's campground where we have always stayed for these Races. This year we are happy to announce that we are honored to have as our "all expenses paid" guest David Andrichik. Rich and I convinced about 40 of David's friends to contribute to the ticket, campsite, food and fuel costs of Davids part of this trip. David is well known as the generous host of so many events and special occasions for all his regular Chatterbox customers and friends and it was only right the we as a collective group reward David for his altruistic generosity. We hope to be pulling out of the Driveway at Rich's at 6:00 AM Friday morning, and will be returning before sunset on Monday. Those of you on facebook can follow "The wacky hijinx of this unlikely band of misfits as they venture into NASCAR country in search of racing fun." I used to read a lot of TV Guide synopsis' I think I could write them too. On facebook go to "David's
Excellent Adventure" We have tried to convince David to keep a journal of any and all aspects of our extended weekend. Mike Wilson and I may weigh in a time or two as well so check the group often.
Well I have been getting ready and now I have to get gone. Once more into the Breech (luckily for all concerned I am wearing my breeches).

Wish us luck, fun and dry warm weather.
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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What does it take to make you happy? No really where does your happiness spring from? I don't know either, but I thought you might. Are we all that different? Again, I don't know. I have a quick wit and a analytical/syncopated/musical mind, but I'm not all that great of follow through. I have a set of conditions I like to adhere too, and I judge myself against those at all times. You might see it as a competitive nature, but I'm not necessarily trying to beat you, I may not even be aware that you are competing with me, I have to perform within my set guidelines for myself, when I fail me, I can't imagine that I haven't failed you too. If you are on my team, or depend on me , I take that responsibility serious too. I may not have the same expectations for you, I may not judge your performance against mine (or your median performance), I judge myself against my expectations of my abilities. I rarely have a good time when I fail myself. It's hard to get away with anything when the judge, jury and executioner all live under the same roof. Having passed this judgement, and condemned myself in the process, I will say that if I am in a situation where I am with good friends, I will take a few liberties with my punishment. I might even forgive an forget my own shortcomings, for the sake of the core. It's been known to happen.

Well for the first time in an long time there is not a Hendrick Motorsports driver in the top ten in Nascar. Not to say what would be the top 43 lineup if the weather had cooperated little longer, still it was an exciting race, and a good party at Rich's too.
Congrats to Matt Kenseth, and Roush Racing for the one lap pass that became the wet flag lap as the heavens opened up and said, ENOUGH! Congrats to Junior for the unexplainable media bias, and the re-writing of the event seen by millions right before our eyes. If Junior says he was bumped down under the yellows (contrary to the 20 camera angles, super slow motion and aerial evidence, and other drivers involved), and he didn't lift (despite the rules) or take out the number one competitor for the "lucky dog," then that accident weren't his fault. No need to fret about it, the golden boy still has his golden ticket birthright. Sell some jeans and energy juice Juney, the commercialized american media fool has your back. Again. We have the potential to see this same story 35 more times, and not just with one Hendrick driver but several. The beat goes on, na neh na neh naaa.
This was the umptenth Turkey Fry event at Rich's, and he has the oil boiled bird down to a science. This year there were some first timers to the event. Notably a gaggle of Chatterbowlers: Christian Brown, Bec Hutton, John Suenram, Kristofer Bowman and Patrick Schutte. Then came a line-up of next timers, "the occasional suspects": Jeff Barber, David Andrichik, Jamie, Barb and Mike Novak. An finally the reoccurring regulars, Guy and Maddie Tucker, J.D. (who had a first-time guest Erin), Mike Wilson, Joe Bula, Kay Niedenthal, Melissa Shoffner, John Qualkenbush, Jenni Pace and myself. There were a few notable absence's as well, Richard Plath was expected, Ed and Pam were a couple of sniveling no shows (literally they were both suffering from head colds and discomforts), and The DiNicolas. Jenni postulated that Liz was all but dead after a valentine day chocolate and truffle event the day before.
Time is my enemy again. I could sit here for another hour and spew conjecture and invective, recap and recount other moments, but there is a job and a day tugging on my sleeve.
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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Boomer reminds a house with a 50% Cleveland audience where they are!
Last night Mike Wilson and I were treated to a spectacle at Conseco, when David Andrichik took us to the Cleveland
Cavaliers vs. The Pacers match. (Technically speaking Kay Niedenthal took Mike and I to the game, David had obligations which precluded his joining us until right before the festivities actually got under way). Billed as Danny Granger -Indiana's solo All-Star- vs. LeBron James, that aspect of the game was clearly lopsided in LeBron's favor. Throughout the contest the game was close, Indiana and Cleveland swapping leads all through the 2nd half.
Roy Hibbert, Troy Murphy , Jarrett Jack and Travis Diener were the unsung heros of the contest keeping the Pacers in the game. Mr. James knocked down 45 points including two questionable free throws with .4 seconds on the clock to tie the game at 95. The final opportunity for the pacers came after a "45" which let them inbound from the front court, the ball was passed to Granger who was able to get close to the basket and was 'bumped' in the air as he tried to complete an alley-oop from inbounder Jarrett Jack.

LeBron James drops in his 45th point and ties the game with 00.4 on the clock.
LeBron brought the contact and Granger brought the first free throw, which pushed Danny's point's total to a meek 16 (normally closer to a half-time tally for Indy's number 33). With 00.1 on the clock a miracle would be needed for Cleveland to get the "W," Granger took the final free-throw off the side of the the rim and Cavalier Anderson Varejao rebounded and from the Pacers paint under the basket rocketed the ball to and of the rim on the other end of the court. Time had expired and the Pacers were a 1 point victor in a very fan fun night's contest.
The sidebar shots were from our time out entertainments, the high flying hijinx of the Powerpack at the end of the 3rd quarter, and the Pacemates barely containing themselves after a rousing (if not arousing)dance routine.
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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This Bout was The "Box" vs. the Box Tops. David Andrichik's new team versus my new team in the opening round of The Chatterbox Jazz Club Bowling League at the All*Star Bowl, Chapter 2. There were new faces on all the teams, some just new to the team some new to the leagues itself. David's team has one such newbie, Artur (pronounced Archer) Silva, and my team had two, Leslie Mastin and her beau Chris Eppards. Leslie will be our secret weapon with a 77 average and a 100ish handicap. Chris is going to turn out to be quite a find for my side I think, as long as he can maintain the average he established in the first series: 158. Mel knocked off a 130 average and I had a lowish 147 coming off a two week layoff after damaging my slide foot in a battle to the.. well that's for another time.
In our opposing lanes along with the "rookie" bowler Artur were returning bowlers Andy "King" Krull straight out of Robert E. Howard's fantasy worlds of warriors. Krull did not defeat many pins this day but will be back with a 111 average. Artur was next up with a 127 average. Next up, John Gentry who graced the Box Tops last year but now as an opponent who declared at the onset to me "It's ON!" It was on for Mr. Gentry with a high game of 192 and a series of 460 John will be bringing it at a rate of about 153 pins (if his average is to be believed). Last the Anchor man himself, without his trusty microphone or piano player at his side, David Andrichik brought not only my team down but 510 pins in the process. His average to keep will be a 170.

Other teams to watch (and there are 6 more) the Chatterfoxes with Anchor David Yosha and three delightful and correctly named dishes , Kelly, Katie and Jill, they will be interesting to watch this league, for scoring purposes I mean, bowling scores I reiterate. Well the sun is up and I have to get to a camera store and retaliate with retail.
The Bumpers were'nt up for Jeff Barber, they would have helped.
Sadly I reused an old photo from the Sport Bowl Chuck Pace © 2007
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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Who's at the Chatterbox? Jenni asked me during a break in the action.
Well I didn't know the rules. Still don't understand how the penalties are applied or totally get the the scoring. Then again the announcers Brownie and Dill Hero seemed to be surprised by the scoring a few times too, so I don't feel too bad. What I do know is that after I started to get it. I started to GET IT. I liked it, I liked it a lot. It was fun. Even if it took a sizable portion of the new year to get in from the out of doors and to the will call it was well worth it. Besides I was surrounded by friends. In fact Jenni turned to me at one point and asked, Who's at the Chatterbox?" She meant who's manning the bar, of course, since there couldn't possibly be any regular customers there, I counted at least 20 regulars and bar
Tornado Siren Jane Ire is your Leeeaaad Jammer!
staff that was at the Bout. But there were others there that I didn't expect, like Gloria M, and Sarah Stierch's alter ego who is altogether too vain, and Bert Wong and a few other surprises. As far as first timers? There were a bunch of us: Connie, Mel, Rich, Jenni, Bec Hutton, Bert, Wilson (Ericka and Max I think) and that was just people I know in turns 1 and 2. Of course there were plenty of NRG regulars I knew there too, Jeremy, Christian, Chris, David, Nikki (of course), Marc L (photographer) and some others.

STROOMS! Nothing better for a 0/0 round than STROOMS!
After the bout was over and the friends were collected it was time to head to other destinations. Some went to the DugOut (those who live within a mile of the place mostly, but some others too), Jenni and I with Rich in tow since we had his car all just came back to the world headquarters to reflect on the night and to plan to attend more future bouts. Mel seemed to dig the whole thing as much as we did and thought a double header bout with the Freshmeat JV team the Warning Belles warming up for the Tornado Sirens would be a great night. Speaking of great Mr Brown gets my nod for best custom jacket!
Next up Chatterbowling league #2! Starting tomorrow night!
We'll be seeing you at the Roller Derby my friends, maybe not every bout but a few more throughout the season. It is just too much fun to pass up!
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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Like the Swallows to San Juan Capistrano, so too have the Balls returned to All*Star
Last night several enthusiastic Chatterbowlers converged upon the All*Star Bowl on Indy's east side for a bit o' practice. Several returning leaguers were joined by some new initiates. I was just there in an incapacity as photographer and merry maker. The incapacity comes from the previous night at the very same alley designated for bowling, and maybe a beer or two.
On Sunday night I was well into what should have been a great game, dutch thru 6 frames when the unacceptable happened, something in my knee went "pop" I had eighty pins in the 5th and a strike in the 6th and after the warning call from patella town ended with a sub-average 150. The next game I was able to compensate by getting down lower and sliding less, it started grandly , spare and 4 strikes in a row, and ended with a flop in the 10th frame, still I garnered 192 pins but should have had over 200 with a decent closing frame. The last game welcomed my hip joining my knee in conspiracy. I was limping for the rest of the game and back spasms joined in with the other aches and we had a combo. The tune they where playing was "Stop in the Name of Love" and the Supremes were the supreme pains I was feeling.
In the Photo above Chris West says, "Jeepers gang, those two pins are sure resilient, it's a gosh durned split!" Or something to that effect.
So Monday, after a quick stop at the Chatterbox (and a load of good times) I decided to skip the pain reunion but to join the keglers none the less. I limped to the 'Vert and with my trusty Olympus digital camera in hand and made my to memory lanes. I was there like Navin R. Johnson, I had a special purpose, I was there to pixelate Chatterbowling practicers.

A wounded knees eye view of David A. launching an assault on a wedge of ten pins.
Chuck Pace ©2009 
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This is why they play the games. This is where the next championship starts. Post season. This is when it is fun (or frustrating) to be a fan.
Yesterday the NFL announced that Peyton Manning was again the league MVP. Only one other Quarterback has been league MVP 3 times, Brett Favre. So Manning is again in the rarified air. Manning ended the regular season with his third perfect game rating of 158.3, and finished the season with a 95. rating. With 27 TD's to only 17 ints. Manning definitely put in a MVP-performance. Lets hope that he continues to step up his game for another run to the Championship Game in Tampa BAy. Other accomplishments for Manning and the Colts this year. Another 4000 yard passing season for Peyton, that makes 9 all together. Nobody else is even close to that mark. Marvin Harrison has caught more passes (1102) than any other receiver in history except Jerry Rice (1549). He is also 2nd (59) behind Rice(76) in 100 yard reception games in a career. John Mackey, hall of fame Tight End from the old Baltimore Colts saw his decades long single season yardage record fall in the final regular season game to Dallas Clark ironically Dallas won the John Mackey award in 2002 for college play while a Big Ten Hawkeye at Iowa. Clark ended the season with 848 yards beating Mackey's mark by 19 yards.
Well my time is short here so Go Colts. I'll be glued in front of the TV tonight.

Chuck Pace ©2009 
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Tonight I am going to my first Pacers Game of the season at 10-17 they are not setting the court on fire but they do have a 6-6 home record. Tonight's opponent is the Nets from Joizee who are in the same division and are the 8th seed at 13-14. I'm hoping for a good close game and a win. But I will settle for a good game. As usual our host is David Andrichik. I will be back tomorrow morning with more details. Go Pacers!
Chuck Pace ©2008 
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I worked Sunday, one of the two Sundays that Roberts is open each year. There was football on the radio, though why AM1260 thought that the Patriots vs.Cardinals was the game to air I'll never guess. No the game that had the most meaning for me was the Steelers vs Titans. If the Steel Curtain cold close around the Titans then we beat the titans next week we would have identical records and they would have to go to the second or third tie-breaker to declare the Tennessee team the 1st AFC South team to win the division other than the 6 time AFC South Champion Colts. So Big Ben choked and Tennessee won.
After bowling last night where Each bowler Mel, Mike Wilson, Rich and I each had one good game, (o.k. Wilson had all three over average including a 212, but he's the only one) I got home and did some much needed Photoshop projects too late for anybody but one person's Christmas. I also watched the Giants vs. Panthers game go into overtime after a miraculous Manning type drive to tie with a two point conversion. So The Giants and The Titans have first round byes and home field advantage as long as they remain unbeaten. Still I'm looking forward to the all Manning Championship.
O.K. the cars running in the cold cold driveway and I have to get going. Maybe I'll see you at the Box tonight, I have to stop and pick up some Nicci Cookies, and deliver that Photoshop Job to somebody. If you contributed to the Cause you might see me there. And Billy Preston sang...
Will it go round in circles?
Will it fly high like a bird up in the sky?
Chuck Pace ©2008 
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The first two warriors of the Keg'lin clan gathered in a dim light alley. Soon there would be more. Soon there would be carnage. The warriors partook of grain based liquids in anticipation of the struggle ahead and waited for the rest of the clan to arrive. Donning special footwear and stretching they loosed up in preparation of the nights conflict. Soon another warrior arrived and began taking off the heavy clothing so that he may have greater mobility when smiting the 'Ten' who would not stay down. This most Recent warrior, Rich, carried three orbs of power, the other two had only one each with which to strike at the 'Ten'. Rich also choose to prepare with a grain based liquids before facing the formidable 'Ten'.
The battle would rage in two separate alleys simultaneously. The alleys themselves were very narrow, just 41.5 inches from side to side and on either side a treacherous gutter that would neutralize a power orb. Between the alleys was a covered channel and a combatant need only hold his hand over the mouth of the channel and his power orb would flow back against gravity and rest with the other orbs waiting for the next barrage. The three waited, warming their insides and steeling themselves. Another arrived, then two more including the mighty female Reb'. There were enough. Enough to wage the conflict and the first skirmish was soon underway.
A warrior approached each alley at the same time, KRis on the left, Dav'Sh on the right. The 'Ten' lined up in a wedge like the powerful Roman armies that swept Gaul centuries before. It began.
The first orb smashed into their ranks leaving only one standing. In the other alley a similar fate awaited those 'Ten'. When necessary the orb was tossed a second time then the warrior would seed his position to the next in line. 'Ten' regrouped and stood facing each combatant in rapid succession.
Halfway through the first soiree two final champions arrived to help do battle. D'andrichik and his initiate JenDen, the second female warrior. The late arrivals watched and fraternized with the original group of warriors until each warrior had ten times faced the relentless 'Ten'.
Before the next soiree the warriors regrouped to better take on the fearless foe. The men of the Moniker Dave: Dav'B, D'andrichik, Dav'Sh and their ally Rich the three orbed dueler took the left flank, KRis, Reb, Chuk and JenDen the right. Through the night the battle raged. Five soirees in all though Reb and KRis retired before the final pair. Rich joined those of the right flank to cover the loss of two duelers and the 4th soiree continued unabated. More challengers retired and the final skirmish saw Rich on at the throat of one alley and Dav'Sh eager at the other. Alternating between the two alleys they sent fusillade after fusillade at the 'Ten' scattering and decimating their ranks. Throughout the evening the individuals kept score, but when it was all over and the alleys darkened, the 'Ten' again stood waiting for another day, another conflict.

Thus went another night of bowling practice.

Chuck Pace ©2008 
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The lowly Lions made a game of it as the lowly often do. It is the pattern of losing that is the downfall of teams on the brink of success, the conditional response, the dare I say comfort zone. I hate to say that but I do believe the it is true. It is hard to bust through an established pattern and change, even if that pattern is one of failure. I would almost feel sorry for them, but not against my Colts Bub! Tony Dungy said much the same thing mid week, he wished the Lions and their coach success and triumph for the final two games, those after our meeting.
Meanwhile on the other side of the ball records were falling like my investment portfolio on the field. Marvin Harrison moved into solo third place all time for most receptions in a career with his 1st catch of the day, just 6 down from Andre Carter, and still a bunch away from the legendary Jerry Rice. While that was going on Manning moved ahead of Vinny Testeverde for 6th place on the career completions roster, and as a team the Colts became the first and only team in the NFL's illustrious history to have 5 consecutive years with 7 straight wins.
Tennessee lost yesterday while the Colts won, consider a scenario where the Colts and Tennessee both end the season 12-4, we would have to win the last two while Tennessee loses them, o.k? We have a short week playing in Jacksonville on Thursday, then 10 days to prepare for the final regular season game here against Tennessee. We would be tied wins and losses in the division with Tennessee @ 4-2. The media had all but given the division to Tennessee, saying yesterday that the Colts can not win the division, it must come down to a second tiebreaker if so. We should be the highest seeded Wild Card in the AFC with at least one home game, most likely against Denver although The Pats and the Dolphins are still mathematically alive, but don't completely control their destinies. Meanwhile the Giants are on top in the NFC even after an embarrassing lose to Romo and TO last night.
Here's to an all Manning Superbowl this year.
Go Colts
- 4:
Let's add another helmet on Thursday

Tomorrows Post Today. Like the Early Sunday edition newspaper available after 5PM on Saturday.

Monday night at the Lanes. Few are called, many answered. A cadre of Chatterboxers converged at the Kegling construct on East 10th street. The early arrivals were golf grounds-men and Garden clubbers from the mid east side. David Sherry, Kristofer Bowman, Rebecca Hutton, with Christian Brown as the sole audience member. Next to arrive was Rich Culy and myself, then two more Davids, Andrichik and Beuke (who arrived in reverse alphabetical order). With eight you get more that egg-rolls and after the initial three were done with practice, a tandem of kegler teams took to the hardwoods.
Lane 5 featured Top down: David S, Rebecca, Chuck and David B. While lane 6 staged as follows: Kristopher, Christian, David A and Rich. Three games were agreed upon so naturally Christian played two and proclaimed that he was going home to a Roller Girl. The balance of us, not actually having access to a home that includes the Roller Girl feature; 4. Each bowler had a game to be proud of I think . David B, David A, Rich and I, " the seasoned (if not wizened) bowlers" with the most-est experience at pin intimidation each had at least one 200 game. Two late comers, Jeremy Hatch and LeAnne Bailey, who were just too special (spelled: antisocial) to play on our lanes sublet the lesser sides pair of approaches and runs for a couple of practice programs as well. LeAnne started with a stunning crushing dominating turkey (spelled XXX) then simmered down with a 9-, 8-, --, and... that's where I kind of stopped paying attention to them all the way over on lanes 3 & 4. I mean who's got the time to shuttle back and forth over all that real estate?
Meanwhile back on 5 and 6 (in the real world), side wagers were talked about, and the same seasoned but not wizened four put their monopoly money where the Parker Brothers told Milton Bradley to put his lunch! David B took 2, Rich took 1 and David A the final war-bux daddy, I would have got the chit and got off the pot if we had played 5 (I'm most certainly sure), but 4 was enough for the 7 that had been 8 before 1 had 2 go (She's a Roller!, high Roller baabee, yes she izzz). As for the games played with Cards only the undeserving won. Rebecca, Kris, David Sherry and I donated to the scholarship fund.
Hey, over half the population doesn't even have Balls, let alone Pins to knock over with them.
Please, do all you can.
Chuck Pace ©2008 
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Last week was the first week, because everything has to have a starting point. Last week was that week. When you are in a bowling league you have to start somewhere, I like to do that on the first week as a rule.

David Andrichik has assembled a cadre of Chatterbox regulars and neighbors and turned us into our own bowling league at the All*Star Bowl bowling alley on the city's east side. Last week, oh wait I've covered that already. Six teams were created, 24 regular bowlers were required, 21 were there plus one substitute, leaving two teams a kegler short. Team 1: (Chatterbox One) Rehder/Hamilton/Andrichik/Andrichik came up against Team 2: Krull/Yosha/Wilson/Beuke (I don't know if they have chosen a catchy moniker yet)who won two games (valued at two points each) and series (1 additional point) finished in first place taking 5 of the 7 available points in their contest. Team 3: Suenram/Hutton/Mark/Bowman, (with Bobbi Jo Marx absent and Kay Niedenthal subbing brilliantly) again I don't know if they chose a team cognomen, were pitted against Team 4: Hiatt/Martin/Berns/Culy, and won two games but lost series ending with a 4 point score. Team three is in 3rd place. Thusly team 4 were awarded (earned) 3 points 2 for 1 game and 1 for an overall score high enough to carry series points. Team 4 is in 4th place. The 5th team , (strangely) Team 5: Bailey/Brown/Hatch/West chose a name, "Press Help Key" they , not unlike team 4 were bowling the missing man formation with Mr. Brown suffering from a gravity related stairwell incident and unable to kegel with a peg-al (cane). Team 4's missing man Paul Berns was just a heart-beat away recovering from heart surgery while his heart throb rolled for scores. My team is the final team, Team 6 and we, Sherry/Shoffner/Gentry/Pace named our crew the 'Box Tops.'
After calculating the totals and handicaps this weekend I determined that our team with the same score as team 2, but lower pin count, is in 2nd place. That leaves team 1 and team 5 vying for last place, with just 2 points each. The honor goes to team 5 (vie? vie not?) with just a dozen less points with handicap than the flagship brand. In just under 19 hours from the completion of this post round two of the Chatterbox Bowling league will convene to see who comes out on top next tally!

Chuck Pace ©2008 
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So last week we took only one game, even though I had my best game and series since week one when I set the unattainable since bench mark performance. That first week I bowled a 525 series with a high game 1 of 179. Incredibly, the next week I had my worst series and lowest game. Game one 99, series 388. Since then I have been up and down, so when I stepped up in week ten and bowled a 500 even I was happy, the team didn't do as well and like I said we only took one game. It didn't help that we were bowling the #1 team in the league that week. Jump ahead one week and what happens? We are bowling the #2 team in the league, and we have slid back to last place (18th). Game one, only anchor man Tom Pruitt achieves. Rich and I are under our averages. Team Blust takes game one by 50 pins. Game two I better my numbers by 6 pins and am still 6 pins below my average, Tom drops below his average by two pins and Rich is possessed! Rich bowls a 9/ to start then 5 strikes and another 9/, but the time the dust settles we have won the second game by 68 pins, are up in series by 19 and Rich has knocked a big 222 hole in his stats. Along comes game three, Tom and I both pick it back up and do well, I bowl my highest game of the entire league, a 186, Tom beat me with a 188, 15 over his average and Rich drops a 137 bomb. Still we were able to win game three by 22 pins and take two and series. I won't know until next Tuesday if we moved out of the basement spot or not. The team ahead of us was only 1 point out of a tie for last going in. Next week is the last week before the final week and position round, we must prevail at all cost, or drink bowl and have a decent time. Hmmm.

Chuck Pace ©2008
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The Pagoda seen from Stand C, section 1 stairwell landing.
Just after the "Drivers to your Cars" announcement. Chuck Pace ©2008

Well I hadn't been to a Open Wheel Race in Indianapolis since the Cart/IRL fiasco of oh too many years ago.
I have been getting more interested in the racing again in the last three or fours years (the Danica years) as have so many others. She is a great boon to a sport that suffered a type of identity crisis for about a decade, she was the most popular driver among the fans in the seats around us as I'm sure she is everywhere she goes. A truly talented driver with the same bravado as the "boys club' drivers. She is analogous to Jr. in the cup series for fan base and worship, and a far better/braver talent in my opinion, and of course she didn't inherit a fan base, or get the gift of a team and a ride from her family. Her personal race is more like that of a Tigress breaking into the Lions domain.
Behind our seats, in the next row was a preschool girl and her 1st grade brother. She said he was going to race cars like Danica when she was older. A sentiment heard from others a few more times at the concession stands and along the walks back to the car too I might add.

The level of competition at the track was great, even after the 'most popular' driver was taken out by an overly aggressive pit exit by Team Penske's Ryan Briscoe.
Of the Chatterbox entourage I can say that all had a grand time before, during and after the main event. Once again David has given his regular patron's more reason to continue frequenting his fine establishment.
Above: Indy native John Andretti during one of the many cautions.
Chuck Pace ©2008

Last night after work Rich and I hit the bowling alley for three games of either self improvement or self abuse. My first game was a clean game, one of the three best games I've ever bowled and it doesn't really matter. Still I'll recap, just so it is a matter of record somewhere in the universe of unimportant achievement (I am featured there a few times for things of absolutely no consequence). four strikes, two spares, four strikes and 9 - or in the nomenclature of keglers everywhere. XXXX8/9/XXXX9- for the grand total of 255. Not bad for a single game (or even two) then came the great equalizer, the 112 game, and a bookend good game of 180 a full 21 over my average on the PBA experience league I am struggling with. Then there is the average for the night, 182. not so shabby either. Like I said this is not a sanctioned evening or league or anything so it is just bragging, and not bowling in the great cosmos of concern. Still XXXX8/9/XXXX9-!, I had 126 it the 5th frame, 14 over the TOTAL of the next game.
Such is life. At least I had witnesses who I bowl against in 'real' situations.
Chuck Pace © 2007
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I can see why they say that the PBA experience will make a better bowler out of you. The conditions are the same as the PBA bowlers use, and the oil pattern is printed out for the bowlers to study. The margin of error is very slim and it takes a lot more concentration to do well. I was able to capitalize on my straighter style much better than Rich was with his wicked ball spin and hook. I ended the four game set with a 170 average and two games over 200, in contrast Rich has a first evening's average of only 113 and a high of just 144. There is room for improvement from both of us. Rich did have his best effort in the final game, (as did I) and is looking forward to next week building on what he learned from last night. I will be looking to get more consistent with my release and delivery in the next two weeks on oil pattern Chameleon. Then we are on to a whole new pattern, and learning more ways to correct or struggle as the case may be.
Prior to all that it was another Monday and another work day. We welcomed a new front counter person to fill the vacancy left by Jo's retirement, Jessica Latimer is the new girl's name and apart from that I know very little about her at this time. After work, as is the routine Jenni, Rich, and I converged upon the Chatterbox, Rebecca, Mel, Ed, Kay and Sue Hobbs were also there putting the days previous trials and tribulations under a thin blanket of barley and hops, (or cider as the case Mel be), and DeAnne was providing comforters in her usual manner. Late to the fray was Travis, and Brandon and Jessica only looked in over the railing. Catherine Woods sat down opposite of me and only then recognized my hairless pate and greeted me. Jon was not to be found before my egress.
Then (as foretold) off the the Keggle Chameleon (is that a Boy George song?)and the rest (which there was very little of; finishing each game in around 24 minutes, whew!) is history. Back home at 10 13 I sat down to a retelling of Heroes with my bride by my side. Interesting. Very interesting. Linderman down? Me Droogies? Viddie that me Choco-blosticks!
Chuck Pace © 2007
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Well the Car of Tomorrow (COT) seems to be a success. Even though the speeds were quite a bit slower than recent years, the competition level seemed to be above recent years too. There were only three or four retirees in a 500 lap event, enough cautions but nowhere near a record, and David Ragan, Juan (Johnny Montanna) Montoya and Robbie Gordon did everything they could to keep it exciting, one of the radio broadcast guys even called Juan the speed-bump. Between the three of them they were involved in all but a couple of the cautions in one way or another. After another good start, having Stewart, Kahne, Sadler, Jeff Burton and Clint Bowyer on my team I was feeling pretty good about my chances, Tony led over 270 laps before having a new problem with the new COT fuel pump which is mechanical instead of electrical like in the traditional cars. The drive cable snapped under the drivers tunnel and he coasted around to his pits and went 35 laps down before repairs were affected, to bad for Tony, no one could touch him on the track, it took an equipment failure on untested systems to stop him, when the failure occurred there were only 7 cars left to be lapped by the 20, and I was in 2nd place in the fantasy league. Rich was 6th Mike was 13th and Travis was 17th. The pre race ceremonies were awesome as usual with four separate passes by the Jets overhead first all four, then two then one solo doing a wing wave, then the other two with a vertical burn over the track bowl. Those all followed the anthem and the card stunts. (Pictured Above)
Chuck Pace © 2007
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No matter how much you prepare, there is the last minute rush. This morning and a little bit after work and before bowling tonight I have to put together my Nascar/Bristol survival kit. I have been busy with a lot of other things and have barely got this started, and now it's time to get it packed. The plan is to head out for Eastern Tennessee from Rich's at around 3AM tomorrow morning, that should put us at Shadrack's Campground less than 1/2 a mile from Bristol Motor Speedway before noon on Friday. Like last year I intend to post from the campground. I have to get started with the packing now so this is a short prelude post. More later friends. Hopefully.
Chuck Pace © 2007
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Well, I was hoping for another night at the kegling range like the one I had on Thursday. To summarize. I didn't. I abstained from all things barley or fermented and went out and tackled the first two games with aplomb, then near the end of the second game something sort of just clicked. We all know those moments. They are like the paradigm shift. When you know that nothing is going to be the same from this moment on. I fall short of saying epiphany but there certainly was a discernible instant when that was the old, and all this is the new. The exact moment was when something snapped in my left knee which is roughly 19 inches above my slide foot. It sounded like a green twig being snapped. By the third frame of the third game I could no longer hold my weight on that leg with the knee bent. I normally kick my back right leg back and around to the left as I slide, getting my center of gravity and body lower to the lanes upon release of the drilled orb. Well, the new look is a pseudo slide on the left and a short unbalanced hop with the right foot to keep my forehead out of the gutter. I couple of times I looked like a gooney bird flailing my arms in order to attract a mate, no to keep from toppling over the foul line and doing that whole header into the lanes thing. If I'd only known the extent of the evenings fun on the outset I probably would have made an evening of the St. Patty's Day Eve in grander style, and staggered out, instead of blowing an anterior cruciate ligament or medial meniscus and staggering out. I may have to see one of the Patels about my patella.
The team won the first game handily, lost 2 and 3 marginally, and may have taken series, I lost interest and focus during my experiments in upright joint bowling, riverdancing. Happy St. Patricks day to the lot of ya. See you soon.
Chuck Pace © 2007
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From Right to Left, The Amazing Brandon, Travis Camera hog Melissa and Captain Chuck.
Chuck Pace © 2007
Last night was a big night for Chatterbox teams. Chatterbox One, the team I'm on won all 7 points against an opponent that might as well have quit or just not showed up, team 1-1. Unlike recent outings Brandon had very good games and series, Travis bowled two out of three over average and averaged a series over as well, Melissa had a ten over, and two under while wearing very cool retro "Bewitching" bowling shoes ala late 1970's (I could almost hear Dick Sergeant going "SAM!"), and I had a 534 series crowned with a 216 middle effort. Which astounded the little missus at home when I texted her the results. She gushed with praise such as "Not 2 shabby," and "Sorry my inflection Key must be broken." This was the first time since week three of the nine just completed that all four bowlers for Chatterbox One were simultaneously attending. We bowled well as a team, something I always suspected would happen. I even happened to pull off a team photo of, well the team. Then when all the accos were laid, it was back to the Chatterbox, as a staging ground to take John David home. Jeff Barber and Rachel were there and there was conversation and a round of amarula before the dropping off and eventual drive back to the World headquarters. Tonight I attempt to repeat yesterday's grand kegling experience and bring more texted praises from my biggest fan, critic and joy in life.
Chuck Pace © 2007
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I know I don't have to ask if you saw that! I would venture to guess that everybody in Indianapolis saw that. I expected to be horse, but I'm not. After the second half started it became more and more evident that we would win. I Predicted 34-24 at work on Thursday. I also said that Devin Hester was going to be a problem, but if we hadn't spotted Chicago that opening kick-off TD it probably would have been a boring blow-out. I have to find the hat and shirt tomorrow. I have to get my 12 year old horseshoe tattoo updated. I have to get to bed.
Chuck Pace © 2007
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Prism Break! ChuckPace © 2007
So the Pacers were not so gallant in Detroit last night. They did manage to tie the game in the third period before the forces of evil were able to prevail. There was no three-point barrage (on our side of the court anyway) or awe inspiring comeback, just a defeat. But the next two games are again at home in the fieldhouse, Tuesday against the Celtics and Friday against the leagues other super-team the Lakers of Lost Angles. Let us see if the Fantastic Four do as well against these mighty nemeses.
The picture above? It is a very artistic way of looking at a camera failure. On Saturday a customer brought me a camera that most likely had taken a tumble or a blunt force traumatic impact. I put a store memory card in the eunuch, and the result was the rather ballsy image above (after a little fondling of its curves in photoshop).
So this is a short one, that may or may not post al all, depending on wether the program goes down, or if it is allowed to up-load. Now return your mind from the gutter and get to something productive. Nave!
Chuck Pace © 2007
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This is the second time to try to upload this post this morning (1st attempt was at 6:26 AM).
There were two more attempts before finally uploading a day late, aaaarrrgghh!

Rob Toasted Mike Novak © 2007 Used with permission.
Saturday was a quiet day at camera-central, so quiet that Mike Novak's photo of Rob Collins may have been the bright point of the day. There certainly was a spark of brilliance if nothing else. Then there was coming home to the proposition of no football for a week. I sat around with no reason or purpose. Jenni and Meredith had been shopping or some such. Jenni had a coworkers retirement party to attend, Meredith was waiting for a call from her friend Jessica. Time passed, I played some computer solitaire, Meredith napped. Time passed, Jenni came home and she and the Meredith went to Fazoli's. I watched the second half of the Pacer's game.
If this is how it is going to be without Football I may go completely insane. And there is still the big game. THE BIG GAME! The reason that you play the other 18 or 19 games, to be in the big game! It's just one weekend without football and already I'm stir crazy. The distraction in an otherwise dreary existence is most crucial, sure there will be Nascar soon, and the Pacers are 3-1 without Rooney and Shooter Jackson so they may fill in the gaps some. But still Football has been my number one since I can remember. One of the very first books I ever read cover to cover was the biography of Bart Starr I must have been nine or ten, and it took me longer than the football season but I got through it.
O.K. back to the Pacers for a minute. That second half last night was far more than a distraction. Danny Granger took the entire team on his back and willed a comeback, and the team came with him. The pacers who were only 29% from outside the arc for the season rained threes in the second half, and finished at 50% from "The Deep." None were deeper than Marquis Daniels third quarter buzzer beater from between the opposite 3-point arc and the half court line. I suppose I could watch games like that.
Chuck Pace © 2007
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Time out! Foster and Dunleavey look on late in the game. Chuck Pace © 2007
I saw some Colts players last night; Brian Fletcher , Cato June, Reggie Wayne and Booger McFarland. They were at the Pacers game against the Miami Heat. The 'new look' Pacers did not look to great for the first three quarters, but managed to stay in contact with the "who's who" Heat roster. You know; Dwayne Wade , Gary Paton, Alonzo Mourning, Antoine Walker and Shaq, all of whom played last night. That is an intimidating roster to say the least, but our guys stepped up and in the end forced an overtime and ended with a 96-94 victory. I was impressed with Mike Dunleavey's hustle (it was like having two Fosters on the court at times), Troy Murphy's double double, and Ike Diogu contributions as well, I can only see this team getting better as they play more reps together and learn each other's strengths.
Chuck Pace © 2007
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