For the first time this year, I intentionally watched the Vikings Sunday. The reason, of course, was simply because it was the last game played in the Metrodome, a “souvenir game” so to speak.
It turned out to be reasonably entertaining for a late-season game between two teams who had no playoff hopes on the line. It even had some unusual quirks, such as the Vikings playing a solid first half, and most of all, not blowing the lead in the fourth quarter.
Outside of the stadium during the final game, it was below zero temperature before even calculating the windchill. I would like to go back to the ‘70s and read some of the material from when the community leaders at the time would have been touting the benefits of building a domed stadium in Minnesota.
At least the new billion-dollar baby will have a roof as well. Pro sports are for the upscale crowd these days. Why would rich people want to sit outside in terrible weather for three hours plus? How many $12 beers can you drink when it’s below zero?
The Metrodome was state-of-the-art at the time it was built, and it’s sad to see it be tossed away like an old car that would cost more to repair than it’s worth. It served us well – mostly because we always knew there would be a game and it would be comfortable.
That’s where the Twins still missed the boat with Target Field. Milwaukee’s Miller Field has the modern appeal like a Target Field, but also has a retractable roof for those awful-weather days you know will occur. The retractable feature, despite the high price tag, gives everyone the best of both worlds – open sunshine when it’s nice, and protection when it’s not.
I won’t be bidding on any Metrodome memorabilia, but definitely hanging on to memories of a stadium that wasn’t perfect but still was ours!
Mouth-watering Omaha Steaks
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Restaurant review: Don Pablo's, Eden Prairie MN
Even though I’d been to Don Pablo’s in Eden Prairie with others before, it took several years to learn how to get there.
You can easily see it cruising along where 494 starts to head north. But it’s nestled between a couple hotels – over the underpass and through the service roads . . .
Over the years, we’ve had several failed attempts to get there where in which we simply gave up and went somewhere else. Now, after a couple times of reaching the destination, maybe the changes in plans weren’t so bad.
The best thing about Don Pablo’s was the pre-meal basket of chips, which come out slightly warmed. We hurried through these, and a second basket, so fast, it took the edge off the appetite for the meal. Although the chips were delicious, the salsa serving was on the stingy side.
Otherwise, things were extremely average. Nothing wrong, but nothing to get excited about. Plenty of menu choices. The food was ok, but just didn’t have the flavor like El Mazatlan.
And by the time we’re done, the tab runs up faster and higher than the value received. Although we know how to get there now, I don’t have a reason to hurry back.
You can easily see it cruising along where 494 starts to head north. But it’s nestled between a couple hotels – over the underpass and through the service roads . . .
Over the years, we’ve had several failed attempts to get there where in which we simply gave up and went somewhere else. Now, after a couple times of reaching the destination, maybe the changes in plans weren’t so bad.
The best thing about Don Pablo’s was the pre-meal basket of chips, which come out slightly warmed. We hurried through these, and a second basket, so fast, it took the edge off the appetite for the meal. Although the chips were delicious, the salsa serving was on the stingy side.
Otherwise, things were extremely average. Nothing wrong, but nothing to get excited about. Plenty of menu choices. The food was ok, but just didn’t have the flavor like El Mazatlan.
And by the time we’re done, the tab runs up faster and higher than the value received. Although we know how to get there now, I don’t have a reason to hurry back.
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Business review: Edel's Meats, Montgomery MN
Walk into any small-town meat market and the aroma is overwhelming. It makes you salivate and it makes you buy. It even follows you out the door for a few minutes.
Edel’s Meats is no exception. They all smell great, but when we make a southern trip, I make a point to stop at Edel’s, not for the smell, but for a product: jiternice.
Jiternice (pronounced e-thur-nitz-uh) is a Czech liver sausage that reportedly uses almost every part of a pig. According to the label, ingredients are pork, barley, pork skins, pork snouts, pork tongues, pork hearts, natural juices, salt, spices, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Although there certainly are others who make it, the only place I know of to get it is at Edel’s in the town of Montgomery, MN, where Czech heritage means many names are spelled with very few vowels.
Jiternice is good when baked to a golden brown, although I confess to having warmed it in a microwave. Jiternice in a microwave is like making pizza in a microwave – you get it heated, but not the toasting effect.
Of course, these days there are more options, as with many products. Besides the traditional rings, you can also get jiternice in links and even patties.
Don’t think about what’s in it. Just give it a try. Here’s where to find it.
Edel’s Meats is no exception. They all smell great, but when we make a southern trip, I make a point to stop at Edel’s, not for the smell, but for a product: jiternice.
Jiternice (pronounced e-thur-nitz-uh) is a Czech liver sausage that reportedly uses almost every part of a pig. According to the label, ingredients are pork, barley, pork skins, pork snouts, pork tongues, pork hearts, natural juices, salt, spices, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Although there certainly are others who make it, the only place I know of to get it is at Edel’s in the town of Montgomery, MN, where Czech heritage means many names are spelled with very few vowels.
Jiternice is good when baked to a golden brown, although I confess to having warmed it in a microwave. Jiternice in a microwave is like making pizza in a microwave – you get it heated, but not the toasting effect.
Of course, these days there are more options, as with many products. Besides the traditional rings, you can also get jiternice in links and even patties.
Don’t think about what’s in it. Just give it a try. Here’s where to find it.
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Books: Heaven (and hell)
Keeping in mind that we should not take man’s word over God’s word regarding what Heaven will be like, there are a number of books on the market that describe stories of heavenly experiences.
Individually, these make no claims other than telling their own stories and sharing them with others. Skeptics will argue that the narratives are made up, based on dreams or wishes, or any other reason to refute them.
Being careful to not put too much reliance on any one account, taken collectively, these books do present at least a description of what we can expect or hope Heaven to be like.
Many of the writers simply say some things about Heaven are inexpressible in human terms and descriptions, such as colors and music that are way beyond our current capacity to see and hear.
While we’re still here waiting for eternity, here is a list of thought-provoking Heaven-themed books, all of which are worth the time to read and re-read:
• “Heaven is for Real” (Todd Burpo, Lynn Vincent) – The 4-year-old son of a Nebraska pastor nearly dies during emergency surgery; then over the next couple years reveals astounding descriptions of Heaven itself, sitting on Jesus’s lap, and telling family members about events in their lives that young Colton could not possibly have known about except having learned in his heavenly visit.
• “Heaven Changes Everything: Living Every Day with Eternity in Mind” (Todd and Sonja Burpo) – The follow-up book a few years later describing experiences after sharing their original story with others, and best of all, lessons learned and to learn from the process.
• “Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife” (Eben Alexander) – The near-death experience of a neurosurgeon and how he finds that the spiritual aspects of life trump scientific beliefs.
• “90 Minutes in Heaven: A True Story of Death and Life” (Don Piper) – A Baptist minister involved in a major car accident tells his spiritual realm experiences. Actually, this one focuses more on recovery afterward with only a couple brief chapters of describing Heaven.
• “The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven: A Remarkable Account of Miracles, Angels, and Life beyond This World” (Kevin and Alex Malarkey) – Another car accident story, this one in which son Alex survives and later describes angels, life beyond this world, and even meeting Jesus.
• “Akiane: Her Life, Her Art, Her Poetry” (Akiane and Foreli Kramarik) – Go back to “Heaven is for Real:” after Colton Burpo rejected numerous paintings of Jesus as not looking like him, Akiane’s was just right. They had no connection whatsoever, other than agreeing on the appearance of Jesus. This book tells Akiane’s story of how she became a widely known painter and poet while just a young child.
• “23 Minutes in Hell” (Bill Wiese) – A look at the other side and its heat, stench, and eternal suffering. This also includes an escape from hell with Jesus.
Again, being careful not to put too much stock in any one account, together these books paint a fascinating picture of what’s in store for us. There are many other books as well, and that gives us something to do while we’re still waiting.
Individually, these make no claims other than telling their own stories and sharing them with others. Skeptics will argue that the narratives are made up, based on dreams or wishes, or any other reason to refute them.
Being careful to not put too much reliance on any one account, taken collectively, these books do present at least a description of what we can expect or hope Heaven to be like.
Many of the writers simply say some things about Heaven are inexpressible in human terms and descriptions, such as colors and music that are way beyond our current capacity to see and hear.
While we’re still here waiting for eternity, here is a list of thought-provoking Heaven-themed books, all of which are worth the time to read and re-read:
• “Heaven is for Real” (Todd Burpo, Lynn Vincent) – The 4-year-old son of a Nebraska pastor nearly dies during emergency surgery; then over the next couple years reveals astounding descriptions of Heaven itself, sitting on Jesus’s lap, and telling family members about events in their lives that young Colton could not possibly have known about except having learned in his heavenly visit.
• “Heaven Changes Everything: Living Every Day with Eternity in Mind” (Todd and Sonja Burpo) – The follow-up book a few years later describing experiences after sharing their original story with others, and best of all, lessons learned and to learn from the process.
• “Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife” (Eben Alexander) – The near-death experience of a neurosurgeon and how he finds that the spiritual aspects of life trump scientific beliefs.
• “90 Minutes in Heaven: A True Story of Death and Life” (Don Piper) – A Baptist minister involved in a major car accident tells his spiritual realm experiences. Actually, this one focuses more on recovery afterward with only a couple brief chapters of describing Heaven.
• “The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven: A Remarkable Account of Miracles, Angels, and Life beyond This World” (Kevin and Alex Malarkey) – Another car accident story, this one in which son Alex survives and later describes angels, life beyond this world, and even meeting Jesus.
• “Akiane: Her Life, Her Art, Her Poetry” (Akiane and Foreli Kramarik) – Go back to “Heaven is for Real:” after Colton Burpo rejected numerous paintings of Jesus as not looking like him, Akiane’s was just right. They had no connection whatsoever, other than agreeing on the appearance of Jesus. This book tells Akiane’s story of how she became a widely known painter and poet while just a young child.
• “23 Minutes in Hell” (Bill Wiese) – A look at the other side and its heat, stench, and eternal suffering. This also includes an escape from hell with Jesus.
Again, being careful not to put too much stock in any one account, together these books paint a fascinating picture of what’s in store for us. There are many other books as well, and that gives us something to do while we’re still waiting.
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Book review: 'My Life on the Run'
“My Life On the Run” by Bart Yasso (pub. 2008):
From the Runner’s World icon, a great collection of stories, especially of extreme races that most of us would never ever considering attempting for one reason or many.
Going through deserts, up mountains, naked, with burros, biking across the US (twice), on Antarctica, Mt. Kilimanjaro, India, training a group from a rehab facility for a 22-mile relay, the US Mountain Running Team, getting married in Italy and running a marathon the next day, and finally being inducted into the Running USA Hall of Champions – the list goes on, each an interesting tale. The distance alone rules out most of us. Then add the extreme conditions or circumstances. He also tells of battles with addiction and Lyme disease. All told with humorous touches.
Yasso also describes inventing the “Yasso 800s” workout, which in many cases, gives a reasonably accurate prediction to a marathoner’s finishing time. There also is the reaction from one guy who didn’t get it right and changed the name (it rhymes).
The book also includes several suggested training schedules for everything from a 5k to a full marathon, each at three levels for beginner, seasoned, and hard-core. I myself will stick to my on-the-fly daily jaunts rather than a rigid schedule because, at my level, it works for me and keeps me interested.
As for apparel, there’s a discussion about running being a free-for-all as to what’s acceptable to wear. Unlike other sports, almost anything goes. Some “stunt runners” will do an entire race in boots or costume. I keep it on the plain side, but I guess I fit in.
At the end, is a series of short items about specific runners and another series about races around the world. About our own TC Marathon, besides the now familiar term as the “most scenic urban marathon in America,” Yasso also describes it as one of best-organized marathons in the country. Agreed.
Bart’s slide show is entitled “Never Limit Where Running Can Take You.” More great advice from someone who’s been there, literally.
From the Runner’s World icon, a great collection of stories, especially of extreme races that most of us would never ever considering attempting for one reason or many.
Going through deserts, up mountains, naked, with burros, biking across the US (twice), on Antarctica, Mt. Kilimanjaro, India, training a group from a rehab facility for a 22-mile relay, the US Mountain Running Team, getting married in Italy and running a marathon the next day, and finally being inducted into the Running USA Hall of Champions – the list goes on, each an interesting tale. The distance alone rules out most of us. Then add the extreme conditions or circumstances. He also tells of battles with addiction and Lyme disease. All told with humorous touches.
Yasso also describes inventing the “Yasso 800s” workout, which in many cases, gives a reasonably accurate prediction to a marathoner’s finishing time. There also is the reaction from one guy who didn’t get it right and changed the name (it rhymes).
The book also includes several suggested training schedules for everything from a 5k to a full marathon, each at three levels for beginner, seasoned, and hard-core. I myself will stick to my on-the-fly daily jaunts rather than a rigid schedule because, at my level, it works for me and keeps me interested.
As for apparel, there’s a discussion about running being a free-for-all as to what’s acceptable to wear. Unlike other sports, almost anything goes. Some “stunt runners” will do an entire race in boots or costume. I keep it on the plain side, but I guess I fit in.
At the end, is a series of short items about specific runners and another series about races around the world. About our own TC Marathon, besides the now familiar term as the “most scenic urban marathon in America,” Yasso also describes it as one of best-organized marathons in the country. Agreed.
Bart’s slide show is entitled “Never Limit Where Running Can Take You.” More great advice from someone who’s been there, literally.
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Restaurant review: Windmill Bar and Lounge, Mapleton MN
There aren’t a lot of places to eat in little Mapleton, MN (pop. 1,763). In fact, your only choice may be the Windmill Bar and Lounge on Highway 22, and on a Saturday, you’ll have to wait until 5 p.m. for the kitchen to open.
Once it does, though, it serves the purpose. This is not your fancy decorated fine dining. It is, as the name implies, a small-town bar and lounge. There is plenty of seating, free popcorn, game activities, a few tv screens, and if you’re staying away from the chain-names, it’s a good choice.
The menu points out the owners are Tami and 9 Toes, but doesn’t provide the details on the Toe reference, which seems to be obvious. You can “toe-size” any burger, and the prime burger choice is the Toe Burger – already upgraded in size with additional toppings including jalapenos. There are plenty of non-burger choices as well.
Unless you want to drive 20 miles to Mankato for more choices, when in Mapleton, blow in to the Windmill.
Once it does, though, it serves the purpose. This is not your fancy decorated fine dining. It is, as the name implies, a small-town bar and lounge. There is plenty of seating, free popcorn, game activities, a few tv screens, and if you’re staying away from the chain-names, it’s a good choice.
The menu points out the owners are Tami and 9 Toes, but doesn’t provide the details on the Toe reference, which seems to be obvious. You can “toe-size” any burger, and the prime burger choice is the Toe Burger – already upgraded in size with additional toppings including jalapenos. There are plenty of non-burger choices as well.
Unless you want to drive 20 miles to Mankato for more choices, when in Mapleton, blow in to the Windmill.
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Christmas shopping: part 5, unofficially finished!
Retraced a previous trip. Because one of my readers is also a gift recipient, I can’t describe it any more than an Undisclosed Retail Establishment (URE).
Upon entering the URE, it was painfully obvious that the intensity level of Christmas shopping has increased from our previous steps. I even suggested that one of us acquire a place in line while the other picks up what we came for. We toughed it out and both shopped and waited. Judging by the volume, maybe the economy isn’t as bad as it still seems to be.
With that task complete, we were then left at a crossroads: whether to go to a frequently-visited Walmart or an unfamiliar one. We chose the adventure of a new one. (They are different – the same components, but arranged differently – sort of like buildings Legos into different arrangements.)
It was at the “new” Walmart, I made these comparisons of hiking through Walmart and hiking through the Rocky Mountains:
• you can go out-and-back, a loop, or simply aim for a desired distance.
• the scenery changes as progress from along a creek, through pharmacy, open meadows, housewares, thick forest, electronics, etc.
• you are constantly presented with navigational decisions to make: stepping around the tree root or the fat lady, avoiding the jagged rock or group of tweenagers, and so on.
• it is fairly like to run into Duck Dynasty-like characters in either place.
• for the advanced, you can even use your GPS to return to your car(t).
There are some differences, though, such as very few elevation changes in Walmart, not more than a few inches. And although you protected from the weather, you can’t follow the sun as a guide. In fact, in a 24-hour Walmart, time is irrelevant since you don’t have worry about finishing before nightfall.
Upon entering the URE, it was painfully obvious that the intensity level of Christmas shopping has increased from our previous steps. I even suggested that one of us acquire a place in line while the other picks up what we came for. We toughed it out and both shopped and waited. Judging by the volume, maybe the economy isn’t as bad as it still seems to be.
With that task complete, we were then left at a crossroads: whether to go to a frequently-visited Walmart or an unfamiliar one. We chose the adventure of a new one. (They are different – the same components, but arranged differently – sort of like buildings Legos into different arrangements.)
It was at the “new” Walmart, I made these comparisons of hiking through Walmart and hiking through the Rocky Mountains:
• you can go out-and-back, a loop, or simply aim for a desired distance.
• the scenery changes as progress from along a creek, through pharmacy, open meadows, housewares, thick forest, electronics, etc.
• you are constantly presented with navigational decisions to make: stepping around the tree root or the fat lady, avoiding the jagged rock or group of tweenagers, and so on.
• it is fairly like to run into Duck Dynasty-like characters in either place.
• for the advanced, you can even use your GPS to return to your car(t).
There are some differences, though, such as very few elevation changes in Walmart, not more than a few inches. And although you protected from the weather, you can’t follow the sun as a guide. In fact, in a 24-hour Walmart, time is irrelevant since you don’t have worry about finishing before nightfall.
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Hotel review: Fairfield Inn, Mankato MN
There’s something about sitting in a hot tub and being able to look out the window at snow-covered trees. Sort of a one-up on winter.
Besides the view, Fairfield Inn’s hot tub was a good temperature and in working order, with of course, plenty of chlorine, so make sure to shower. Best of all, the pool area had a tile floor that wasn’t that false-gravel texture that hurts tender bare feet.
The room and bed was clean and comfortable, but with several small half-pillows on each bed. Worked sort of nice for being able to adjust them for comfort, but a new concept we hadn’t seen before.
There were several all-commercial cable channels, with only brief interruptions of actual programming. (Or is cable tv like that all the time now?)
Highlight of the stay was the morning breakfast – a wide variety of waffles, scrambled eggs, sausage patties, yogurt, fresh fruit, cereal, breads, rolls, muffins, etc. Keeping in the mind that it’s prepared in bulk and served over four hours, it was very well done for a hotel breakfast.
Hotel coffee can run in a very wide range from motor oil to delicious. This, too, was on the excellent side of the spectrum.
The only catch was, even with a decent-sized seating area, it was full to the point of having to sit and eat on a couch without a table. Good things draw a crowd.
All in all, for a pre-tax rate of $89, Fairfield is an excellent value in hotel choices in Mankato. Here's more.
Besides the view, Fairfield Inn’s hot tub was a good temperature and in working order, with of course, plenty of chlorine, so make sure to shower. Best of all, the pool area had a tile floor that wasn’t that false-gravel texture that hurts tender bare feet.
The room and bed was clean and comfortable, but with several small half-pillows on each bed. Worked sort of nice for being able to adjust them for comfort, but a new concept we hadn’t seen before.
There were several all-commercial cable channels, with only brief interruptions of actual programming. (Or is cable tv like that all the time now?)
Highlight of the stay was the morning breakfast – a wide variety of waffles, scrambled eggs, sausage patties, yogurt, fresh fruit, cereal, breads, rolls, muffins, etc. Keeping in the mind that it’s prepared in bulk and served over four hours, it was very well done for a hotel breakfast.
Hotel coffee can run in a very wide range from motor oil to delicious. This, too, was on the excellent side of the spectrum.
The only catch was, even with a decent-sized seating area, it was full to the point of having to sit and eat on a couch without a table. Good things draw a crowd.
All in all, for a pre-tax rate of $89, Fairfield is an excellent value in hotel choices in Mankato. Here's more.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Restaurant review: El Mazatlan, Mankato MN
Hadn’t been to what became my favorite Mexican restaurant, El Mazatlan in Mankato, for some time, but was glad to find it’s still there and thriving.
In many aspects, it’s like other Mexican restaurants with a colorful decor and an extensive menu of how many ways you can use the same ingredients to make different things. Add some Mexican music, and there was even soccer (futbol) on the tv screens.
But best of all, for some reason, El Mazatlan’s food always tastes great. This time, had the Burrito Cancun – chicken and shrimp in a burrito with onions, tomatoes, cheese, lettuce, and sour cream. Even the accompanying rice tasted better than most rice dishes.
El Mazatlan is located at 1525 Tullamore Street, near the corner of Madison Ave. (the main commercial strip) and Victory Drive. See the web site here.
And if you’re up for it, they even have 27- and 45-ounce margaritas in a variety of flavors.
In many aspects, it’s like other Mexican restaurants with a colorful decor and an extensive menu of how many ways you can use the same ingredients to make different things. Add some Mexican music, and there was even soccer (futbol) on the tv screens.
But best of all, for some reason, El Mazatlan’s food always tastes great. This time, had the Burrito Cancun – chicken and shrimp in a burrito with onions, tomatoes, cheese, lettuce, and sour cream. Even the accompanying rice tasted better than most rice dishes.
El Mazatlan is located at 1525 Tullamore Street, near the corner of Madison Ave. (the main commercial strip) and Victory Drive. See the web site here.
And if you’re up for it, they even have 27- and 45-ounce margaritas in a variety of flavors.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Book review: The Big Open
“The Big Open” by Rick Ridgeway (pub. 2004). Remember, reading books about mountain climbing makes living through a Minnesota winter pale in comparison.
This one isn’t about climbing, but about climbers on a month-long trek through remote Tibet in search of migration routes and calving grounds of the chiru, a type of antelope. May not sound suspenseful, but the observations, thoughts, and feelings are a good read.
The trekkers are:
• Ridgeway, who was among the first Americans to summit K2 some 25 years earlier.
• renowned photographer/climber Galen Rowell. Sadly, unknown at the tim, this turned out to be Rowell’s last expedition before he and his wife died in a plane crash a few weeks after the trek.
• Conrad Anker, professional mountaineer.
• Jimmy Chin, 28, the youngster of the group.
Unlike some other expeditions, this group got along amazingly well while they traversed the wilderness to find the chiru and extend the research of wildlife biologist George Schaller. Their goal was to document aspects of the chiru to reduce or eliminate pouching of the animal before it went extinct – hides were used for expensive shahtoosh scarves. They built their own rickshaws to carry about 250 pounds of gear and supplies each for their walk across nowhere.
Some samples:
• After a long day of traveling, Ridgeway was exhausted and worried about getting pneumonia. The group debates whether to set up camp or go further. Rowell offers to scout ahead and takes off running, returning in a jog half an hour later. Ridgeway: “We have been pulling our rickshaws for ten hours. For the last four hours we have been trudging uphill at an elevation above 17,000 feet. Galen is 62 years old. How does he do it?”
• Dramatic point: crossing what they named the Gorge of Despair, they hear Rowell scream and start thinking about how badly injured he might be and that there’s no help whatsoever in the isolated area, only to find he had slipped and his camera got wet.
• After finding the sought-after chiru calving grounds, the men split up for a day in different directions. Ridgeway, without a camera, comes within touching distance of a newborn. Back at camp, he mourns missing the opportunity to record the moment as the others say they didn’t get close – but later reveal the fantastic shots and video they actually did get.
With the mission complete, in the last 100 miles on the way out, what do you expect these guys to do? They stop to climb a mountain – a relatively smaller one that could be scaled and descended in two days, but one that also gave them an overview of the land they had just traversed.
After caching some of their supplies and equipment and heading for the mountain, they realized they left behind passports and $10,000 in cash to be used for transportation home. They looked around at the remote surroundings and lack of human habitation.
Ridgeway wrote: “We look at each other, shrug our shoulders, and keep going.”
Toward the end, Ridgeway and Rowell, both veterans of numerous expeditions, agreed this was one of their most fulfilling trips ever.
For more, see:
• photos and summary from National Geographic
• Ridgeway interview
• video on the trek
This one isn’t about climbing, but about climbers on a month-long trek through remote Tibet in search of migration routes and calving grounds of the chiru, a type of antelope. May not sound suspenseful, but the observations, thoughts, and feelings are a good read.
The trekkers are:
• Ridgeway, who was among the first Americans to summit K2 some 25 years earlier.
• renowned photographer/climber Galen Rowell. Sadly, unknown at the tim, this turned out to be Rowell’s last expedition before he and his wife died in a plane crash a few weeks after the trek.
• Conrad Anker, professional mountaineer.
• Jimmy Chin, 28, the youngster of the group.
Unlike some other expeditions, this group got along amazingly well while they traversed the wilderness to find the chiru and extend the research of wildlife biologist George Schaller. Their goal was to document aspects of the chiru to reduce or eliminate pouching of the animal before it went extinct – hides were used for expensive shahtoosh scarves. They built their own rickshaws to carry about 250 pounds of gear and supplies each for their walk across nowhere.
Some samples:
• After a long day of traveling, Ridgeway was exhausted and worried about getting pneumonia. The group debates whether to set up camp or go further. Rowell offers to scout ahead and takes off running, returning in a jog half an hour later. Ridgeway: “We have been pulling our rickshaws for ten hours. For the last four hours we have been trudging uphill at an elevation above 17,000 feet. Galen is 62 years old. How does he do it?”
• Dramatic point: crossing what they named the Gorge of Despair, they hear Rowell scream and start thinking about how badly injured he might be and that there’s no help whatsoever in the isolated area, only to find he had slipped and his camera got wet.
• After finding the sought-after chiru calving grounds, the men split up for a day in different directions. Ridgeway, without a camera, comes within touching distance of a newborn. Back at camp, he mourns missing the opportunity to record the moment as the others say they didn’t get close – but later reveal the fantastic shots and video they actually did get.
With the mission complete, in the last 100 miles on the way out, what do you expect these guys to do? They stop to climb a mountain – a relatively smaller one that could be scaled and descended in two days, but one that also gave them an overview of the land they had just traversed.
After caching some of their supplies and equipment and heading for the mountain, they realized they left behind passports and $10,000 in cash to be used for transportation home. They looked around at the remote surroundings and lack of human habitation.
Ridgeway wrote: “We look at each other, shrug our shoulders, and keep going.”
Toward the end, Ridgeway and Rowell, both veterans of numerous expeditions, agreed this was one of their most fulfilling trips ever.
For more, see:
• photos and summary from National Geographic
• Ridgeway interview
• video on the trek
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Restaurant review: Dahlgreen Golf Club, Chaska MN
Attended another event-type meal in Chaska, this one at Dahlgreen Golf Club. Well, it’s not “in Chaska” – it’s on a rural road south of Hwy 212, but a Chaska address.
I’d heard of it many times, but never been there. On a dark November night, it’s hard to size up the golf course itself. The clubhouse is a nice facility inside with a huge fireplace, but hosting night-time events apparently isn’t the norm – the outside lighting was almost non-existent, so even finding the front door was like looking for a sliced drive in the rough.
The meal was plain but adequate with two pastas, one in white sauce, one in red. Surprisingly, coffee wasn’t included in the meal package, so you had to go buy it at the bar.
Highlight was the mini-cream puffs which as part of the dessert along with a variety of cookies. They were just the right size to pop one at a time and savor the taste.
I’d heard of it many times, but never been there. On a dark November night, it’s hard to size up the golf course itself. The clubhouse is a nice facility inside with a huge fireplace, but hosting night-time events apparently isn’t the norm – the outside lighting was almost non-existent, so even finding the front door was like looking for a sliced drive in the rough.
The meal was plain but adequate with two pastas, one in white sauce, one in red. Surprisingly, coffee wasn’t included in the meal package, so you had to go buy it at the bar.
Highlight was the mini-cream puffs which as part of the dessert along with a variety of cookies. They were just the right size to pop one at a time and savor the taste.
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Restaurant/hotel review: Oak Ridge Conf. Center, Chaska MN
Got the opportunity (obligation) to attend a fundraising event at Oak Ridge Hotel and Conference Center in Chaska.
An evening of rubbing elbows with well-dressed old rich white people. Now I know why I was there: I fit three of those descriptions, just not the one they were really looking for.
Step one was putting on my suit. A check of the pockets revealed where I’d been last in it – a co-worker’s funeral three years ago.
This muddies my blog categories because although we ate there, it was a banquet-type setting rather than a restaurant, and although it was at a hotel, we were there only for a few hours of an event.
Oak Ridge is an elegant facility. You can poke around for more details here.
Geographically, it appears to be the hotel that would be associated with any major events at Hazeltine National Golf Club, which is just a triple-bogey to the east.
The three-course meal was served by white-gloved waiters and waitresses over a period of time equal to seven innings of a Twins game.
Ahhh, fine dining. As I buttered my dinner roll, I smiled at the irony of why eating a hard, crusty piece of bread while wearing a tie is thought to be enjoyable. All in all, the food was fine, but realistically I could have gotten the same menu items from Perkins for one-quarter of the cost, albeit without the wine.
I’ll give ‘em one point for the dessert – which no one at our table was able to exactly identify, but it came closest to chocolate cheesecake embellished with whipped cream.
The best moment of the evening was the opening prayer, including a request that we let go of our entitlement mindset and focus on giving. Appropriate words for any time.
An evening of rubbing elbows with well-dressed old rich white people. Now I know why I was there: I fit three of those descriptions, just not the one they were really looking for.
Step one was putting on my suit. A check of the pockets revealed where I’d been last in it – a co-worker’s funeral three years ago.
This muddies my blog categories because although we ate there, it was a banquet-type setting rather than a restaurant, and although it was at a hotel, we were there only for a few hours of an event.
Oak Ridge is an elegant facility. You can poke around for more details here.
Geographically, it appears to be the hotel that would be associated with any major events at Hazeltine National Golf Club, which is just a triple-bogey to the east.
The three-course meal was served by white-gloved waiters and waitresses over a period of time equal to seven innings of a Twins game.
Ahhh, fine dining. As I buttered my dinner roll, I smiled at the irony of why eating a hard, crusty piece of bread while wearing a tie is thought to be enjoyable. All in all, the food was fine, but realistically I could have gotten the same menu items from Perkins for one-quarter of the cost, albeit without the wine.
I’ll give ‘em one point for the dessert – which no one at our table was able to exactly identify, but it came closest to chocolate cheesecake embellished with whipped cream.
The best moment of the evening was the opening prayer, including a request that we let go of our entitlement mindset and focus on giving. Appropriate words for any time.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Christmas shopping: part 4, almost done!
This time, headed for Dick’s Sporting Goods at Hopkins Crossroad but took a detour into Michael’s, the Land of of Unnecessary Things to Buy.
I was happy to see that the small pieces of craft Styrofoam that we bought recently at Walmart for a school project for a whopping $7 a piece were $12.99 at Michael’s. Ouch.
We did find a nice picture frame for the neighbors (hope they’re still not reading this), and eventually a crafty string called Raffia.
I was surprised when the clerk asked if I wanted a bag. “Yes” I said, thinking that I just spent $25 on Unnecessary Things, the least you could do is give me a bag.
What’s with stores these days that they don’t want to give you receipts, and now bags? Does the few inches of receipt tape, or a convenient plastic bag add that much to the bottom line?
Eventually, made it over to Dick’s, looking for a running headlamp as a gift. Our favorite salesman, Joe, did such as good job explaining what it does and how it works – even for reading – that I added one to my wish list as well.
On to Knollwood and a stop at Burger King. Haven’t been to BK for quite awhile it seems, as I didn’t know they know serve flavored ice drinks. I also gathered from a poster that BK now has a menu item called Big King. It appears to be two all beef patties, spcial sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, on a sesame seed bun. How original! Next time, I’ll have to try one.
Couple other quick stops and our Christmas shopping is nearly finished.
Until next time, unnecessarily yours . . .
I was happy to see that the small pieces of craft Styrofoam that we bought recently at Walmart for a school project for a whopping $7 a piece were $12.99 at Michael’s. Ouch.
We did find a nice picture frame for the neighbors (hope they’re still not reading this), and eventually a crafty string called Raffia.
I was surprised when the clerk asked if I wanted a bag. “Yes” I said, thinking that I just spent $25 on Unnecessary Things, the least you could do is give me a bag.
What’s with stores these days that they don’t want to give you receipts, and now bags? Does the few inches of receipt tape, or a convenient plastic bag add that much to the bottom line?
Eventually, made it over to Dick’s, looking for a running headlamp as a gift. Our favorite salesman, Joe, did such as good job explaining what it does and how it works – even for reading – that I added one to my wish list as well.
On to Knollwood and a stop at Burger King. Haven’t been to BK for quite awhile it seems, as I didn’t know they know serve flavored ice drinks. I also gathered from a poster that BK now has a menu item called Big King. It appears to be two all beef patties, spcial sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, on a sesame seed bun. How original! Next time, I’ll have to try one.
Couple other quick stops and our Christmas shopping is nearly finished.
Until next time, unnecessarily yours . . .
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Recommendation: Rock and Roll Christmas Spectacular
While putting up our Christmas tree, pulled out a CD of Rock and Roll Christmas Spectacular. Haven’t been able to see them for a couple years, but the music is always enjoyable.
RRXS is a group of professional musicians from the St. Cloud area who put together a series of holiday shows each year. There are shows next weekend in Chanhassen; otherwise it’s quite a drive to get to them, but still worth it.
Here’s their website and schedule.
Their performance includes original lyrics to traditional holiday songs, and sometimes a combination of melodies and lyrics you wouldn’t expect.
Without giving too much away, my favorites are Little Drummer Boy/Wipeout, and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen to the tune and beat of Aqualung, including the flute solo.
If you can possibly see RRXS, I highly recommend it.
RRXS is a group of professional musicians from the St. Cloud area who put together a series of holiday shows each year. There are shows next weekend in Chanhassen; otherwise it’s quite a drive to get to them, but still worth it.
Here’s their website and schedule.
Their performance includes original lyrics to traditional holiday songs, and sometimes a combination of melodies and lyrics you wouldn’t expect.
Without giving too much away, my favorites are Little Drummer Boy/Wipeout, and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen to the tune and beat of Aqualung, including the flute solo.
If you can possibly see RRXS, I highly recommend it.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Recipes: homemade french dressing
Some time ago, I came across an old cookbook from the days when people used to cook from scratch.
Among the recipes in it, there was one for homemade french dressing. I especially like it because it is cheaper than buying store brands. Here’s what I turned it into:
1 can tomato soup
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup oil
2/3 cup vinegar
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. cayenne
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1 1/2 tsp. celery seed
Combine all indgredients in a jar with lid, and shake well. Refrigerate to store.
Of course, you can modify any recipe to personal taste. As you can see, I like celery seed.
Among the recipes in it, there was one for homemade french dressing. I especially like it because it is cheaper than buying store brands. Here’s what I turned it into:
1 can tomato soup
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup oil
2/3 cup vinegar
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. cayenne
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1 1/2 tsp. celery seed
Combine all indgredients in a jar with lid, and shake well. Refrigerate to store.
Of course, you can modify any recipe to personal taste. As you can see, I like celery seed.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Thanksgiving: we are thankful for . . .
On this holiday, we have much to give thanks for:
• the promise of eternal life with our savior Jesus Christ. In the meantime, time marches on irregularly – arriving slowly and passing quickly for situations we eagerly anticipate, while coming around often and lasting long for those we would prefer to avoid.
• family and friends to love and be loved.
• health: despite the nicks, bruises, and prescriptions, most of us have a pretty good deal on the physical front.
• resources: similarly, our societal lifestyle is way beyond what we need. Walk up to a big-box store and the door opens for you – not only is this expected; we don’t even notice it anymore.
• Now. Yesterday has slipped away; tomorrow may not come. Right now, what we have is . . . right now.
• the promise of eternal life with our savior Jesus Christ. In the meantime, time marches on irregularly – arriving slowly and passing quickly for situations we eagerly anticipate, while coming around often and lasting long for those we would prefer to avoid.
• family and friends to love and be loved.
• health: despite the nicks, bruises, and prescriptions, most of us have a pretty good deal on the physical front.
• resources: similarly, our societal lifestyle is way beyond what we need. Walk up to a big-box store and the door opens for you – not only is this expected; we don’t even notice it anymore.
• Now. Yesterday has slipped away; tomorrow may not come. Right now, what we have is . . . right now.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Sports: Vikings, Packers, oops
We hosted an early Thanksgiving Sunday for family, which meant football on TV, which meant I ended up seeing part of a Vikings game for the second time this season.
Last time, my prediction was perfect (See here.)
This time, when the Vikings surprisingly scored to go ahead 23-7 late in the third quarter, I made my move and announced “24 to 23.”
Everybody knew what I meant. Worse yet, nobody dared disagree. Even the most loyal Vikings fan knows deep in his heart that no lead is ever safe.
As it turned out, I was only partially right this time. The Vikings did blow the lead, but only to the point of tieing the game, not losing, which was a victory in itself.
I was a victim of Green Bay’s strategy of trying to clear up the losing margin in two 8-point pieces instead of the traditional NFL route of simply kicking extra points. There was plenty of time for two touchdowns and a field goal, which proved to be the case and would have been successful had the Packers followed the proven format for coming from behind to defeat a Minnesota team.
It’s nice to see other teams make mistakes, too.
Last time, my prediction was perfect (See here.)
This time, when the Vikings surprisingly scored to go ahead 23-7 late in the third quarter, I made my move and announced “24 to 23.”
Everybody knew what I meant. Worse yet, nobody dared disagree. Even the most loyal Vikings fan knows deep in his heart that no lead is ever safe.
As it turned out, I was only partially right this time. The Vikings did blow the lead, but only to the point of tieing the game, not losing, which was a victory in itself.
I was a victim of Green Bay’s strategy of trying to clear up the losing margin in two 8-point pieces instead of the traditional NFL route of simply kicking extra points. There was plenty of time for two touchdowns and a field goal, which proved to be the case and would have been successful had the Packers followed the proven format for coming from behind to defeat a Minnesota team.
It’s nice to see other teams make mistakes, too.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Restaurant review: Kaffe Stuga, Harris MN
Just a stone’s throw off the I-35 freeway to the east is the little town of Harris, just a little north of North Branch.
Kaffe Stuga (that’s “coffee house” in English) is your classic local cafe.
Went simple with a cod dinner and sirloin tip hoagie. The side salad was just a small bowl of lettuce with a cucumber slice, but for perhaps the first time in my life, I was given more salad dressing than I needed for the proportion of the salad. Usually, I end up trying to stretch the dressing as far as I can to cover the remaining lettuce.
The cod was perfectly cooked, and the accompanying fries was a generous portion. Best of all, two meals were barely over $15, before the tip.
You know what you’re getting from the chains, but the local places have their own charm and variety, even when you order the same food.
Kaffe Stuga (that’s “coffee house” in English) is your classic local cafe.
Went simple with a cod dinner and sirloin tip hoagie. The side salad was just a small bowl of lettuce with a cucumber slice, but for perhaps the first time in my life, I was given more salad dressing than I needed for the proportion of the salad. Usually, I end up trying to stretch the dressing as far as I can to cover the remaining lettuce.
The cod was perfectly cooked, and the accompanying fries was a generous portion. Best of all, two meals were barely over $15, before the tip.
You know what you’re getting from the chains, but the local places have their own charm and variety, even when you order the same food.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Consumer finance: shortages and conspiracies
Friends, it’s too early to tell, but we may have survived the Great Oil Filter Shortage of 2013.
People laugh at me because of how much I stock up on certain products. But what I buy is only things that I know won’t spoil and that I am going to use.
Oil filters are one such product. I keep a few of each type on hand so that when a vehicle needs an oil change, I can do it at my convenience without being forced into a special shopping trip just to get supplies.
It’s a fluke, but I happened to be at three different Walmart locations in just over a week recently. Each time, I went looking to replace what I need, but two of the model numbers of Fram oil filters were not there.
On the next visit, however, there was one filter #10060 which I snatched up quickly, plus two of the other number I needed. So did I get the last filter after that number was re-stocked, or the last one that hadn’t sold yet?
Is the shortage over, or are they be setting us up for something like the Great Vanilla Wafer Conspiracy of 2009?
(Aside: remember when Subway first started its famous “5 Dollar Footlong” promotion? Do you remember also that most of the sandwiches were $4.60 then? It was advertised as a bargain but really a big price increase.)
Back to wafers. There was a time I used to take a small serving of them as part of my lunch. Unlike Nabisco’s brand-name rip-off at $4-plus a box, Walmart’s Great Value brand of vanilla wafers was just $1.00 a box, and actually tasted better than the high-priced counterparts.
Then suddenly, the price shot up to $1.07, a percentage increase exceeded only by health insurance. Next, Walmart’s vanilla wafers completely disappeared from stores for a couple months, leaving only the brand-name choice (conspiracy!).
When they did come back in a redesigned package, they were $1.27, and the price kept climbing from there. Eventually, I found an alternative off-brand at the grocery store, but it’s not like the good old days of $1 apiece. Now, we’re in the area of $1.68 for a “cheap” box of good wafers.
The only thing worse: a bag of Doritos costs most per pound than a good steak.
People laugh at me because of how much I stock up on certain products. But what I buy is only things that I know won’t spoil and that I am going to use.
Oil filters are one such product. I keep a few of each type on hand so that when a vehicle needs an oil change, I can do it at my convenience without being forced into a special shopping trip just to get supplies.
It’s a fluke, but I happened to be at three different Walmart locations in just over a week recently. Each time, I went looking to replace what I need, but two of the model numbers of Fram oil filters were not there.
On the next visit, however, there was one filter #10060 which I snatched up quickly, plus two of the other number I needed. So did I get the last filter after that number was re-stocked, or the last one that hadn’t sold yet?
Is the shortage over, or are they be setting us up for something like the Great Vanilla Wafer Conspiracy of 2009?
(Aside: remember when Subway first started its famous “5 Dollar Footlong” promotion? Do you remember also that most of the sandwiches were $4.60 then? It was advertised as a bargain but really a big price increase.)
Back to wafers. There was a time I used to take a small serving of them as part of my lunch. Unlike Nabisco’s brand-name rip-off at $4-plus a box, Walmart’s Great Value brand of vanilla wafers was just $1.00 a box, and actually tasted better than the high-priced counterparts.
Then suddenly, the price shot up to $1.07, a percentage increase exceeded only by health insurance. Next, Walmart’s vanilla wafers completely disappeared from stores for a couple months, leaving only the brand-name choice (conspiracy!).
When they did come back in a redesigned package, they were $1.27, and the price kept climbing from there. Eventually, I found an alternative off-brand at the grocery store, but it’s not like the good old days of $1 apiece. Now, we’re in the area of $1.68 for a “cheap” box of good wafers.
The only thing worse: a bag of Doritos costs most per pound than a good steak.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Christmas shopping: part 3 of it goes on and on . . .
This time headed to the 494 strip. Same stores (Sam’s Club, Walmart, Kohl’s), just different locations.
At this Sam’s, the clerk selling cable/satellite wasn’t as pushy. He graciously accepted my answer that I don’t pay for tv.
Picked up some nice gift baskets for the neighbors (hope they’re not reading this). At Sam’s, the tab always runs up quickly because of the large packages. Ended up checking out twice because we couldn’t fit everything in cart, $200 and $150. Somehow it just doesn’t hurt as bad as dropping $350 all at once.
Quick stop at Kohl’s. The difference between men and women shopping: after a buying decision is made, men go pay for it and leave; women keep looking.
Most important lesson of the day: the south and east exterior sides of Kohl’s at Southtown are identical. If you don’t leave through the door you went in, it will be very difficult to find your car.
At this Sam’s, the clerk selling cable/satellite wasn’t as pushy. He graciously accepted my answer that I don’t pay for tv.
Picked up some nice gift baskets for the neighbors (hope they’re not reading this). At Sam’s, the tab always runs up quickly because of the large packages. Ended up checking out twice because we couldn’t fit everything in cart, $200 and $150. Somehow it just doesn’t hurt as bad as dropping $350 all at once.
Quick stop at Kohl’s. The difference between men and women shopping: after a buying decision is made, men go pay for it and leave; women keep looking.
Most important lesson of the day: the south and east exterior sides of Kohl’s at Southtown are identical. If you don’t leave through the door you went in, it will be very difficult to find your car.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Running: fall season and deer hunting
My running season is about over for the year. Not due to motivation – weather and lack of daylight.
I love getting up early, have a cup of coffee, and be out there to start running the minute I can see well enough what I’m stepping on; then enjoying the sunrise as the day brightens.
In summer, it’s easy to get 6 miles, breakfast, and a shower all in and still make it to work on time easily. These days, it’s just dark, and getting worse.
So I’m reduced to running a few more times on weekends only. One of my a favorite places is a nearby trail, but it’s next to a good-sized woods. And that means deer hunting.
Last weekend, I got spooked at the thought of essentially running through the woods with hunters around. Didn’t want to be the next headline: “Runner shot by hunter.”
Instead, I opted for a wide open route where I could see and be seen. It still was eerie hearing shots being fired in the distance, but at least I knew they weren’t directed at me.
I love getting up early, have a cup of coffee, and be out there to start running the minute I can see well enough what I’m stepping on; then enjoying the sunrise as the day brightens.
In summer, it’s easy to get 6 miles, breakfast, and a shower all in and still make it to work on time easily. These days, it’s just dark, and getting worse.
So I’m reduced to running a few more times on weekends only. One of my a favorite places is a nearby trail, but it’s next to a good-sized woods. And that means deer hunting.
Last weekend, I got spooked at the thought of essentially running through the woods with hunters around. Didn’t want to be the next headline: “Runner shot by hunter.”
Instead, I opted for a wide open route where I could see and be seen. It still was eerie hearing shots being fired in the distance, but at least I knew they weren’t directed at me.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Recipes: tailgating treat
Had a flashback to a few years ago: during a college football game broadcast, they did a short feature on people tailgating and what they were cooking.
I can’t remember exactly what one guy was making but it went something like this: Spread cream cheese on a tortilla shell, then add cooked bulk sausage and mozarella cheese. Fold over and grill.
Tried this at home lately and it is very good. Of course, you can also modify it by adding onions, peppers, or anything you like.
You don’t have to be tailgating to enjoy it – works well in the kitchen also for a supper or brunch. Pretty simple and easy, and tastes great!
I can’t remember exactly what one guy was making but it went something like this: Spread cream cheese on a tortilla shell, then add cooked bulk sausage and mozarella cheese. Fold over and grill.
Tried this at home lately and it is very good. Of course, you can also modify it by adding onions, peppers, or anything you like.
You don’t have to be tailgating to enjoy it – works well in the kitchen also for a supper or brunch. Pretty simple and easy, and tastes great!
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Christmas shopping: part 2 of how-many-times-will-take?
This time started at JC Penney in Ridgedale where we got three items, only one off a Christmas list. Make sure to watch the ads and take your coupons along – Penney’s is back to inflated prices with discounts since the fair-and-square realistic pricing fizzled out.
Then our annual Best Buy stop to knock two things off the lists. I’ve had excellent service experience at Best Buy, especially when we need info or have questions about something. But if you want to just browse and be left alone, don’t go to Best Buy – you’ll be like a deer wandering through a woods full of hunters.
Went over to our favorite second-hand place, Unique Thrift Store in New Hope, off Winnetka just north of Rockford Road. Got one more non-Christmas thing.
Then found the closest Batteries Plus to get a battery for a calculator that was almost as old as the clerk. Great service again – he quickly found not only the correct battery for me but was able to tell me I needed two of them. I was much, much happier when finally getting the microscopic screws out to open the calculator and find that yes, indeed, it took two batteries.
That was enough for the day so on the spur of the moment, we picked up a Papa Murphy’s bacon cheeseburger pizza and headed home. Does that happen to anyone else? The stretched out shopping, I mean – not the pizza.
Then our annual Best Buy stop to knock two things off the lists. I’ve had excellent service experience at Best Buy, especially when we need info or have questions about something. But if you want to just browse and be left alone, don’t go to Best Buy – you’ll be like a deer wandering through a woods full of hunters.
Went over to our favorite second-hand place, Unique Thrift Store in New Hope, off Winnetka just north of Rockford Road. Got one more non-Christmas thing.
Then found the closest Batteries Plus to get a battery for a calculator that was almost as old as the clerk. Great service again – he quickly found not only the correct battery for me but was able to tell me I needed two of them. I was much, much happier when finally getting the microscopic screws out to open the calculator and find that yes, indeed, it took two batteries.
That was enough for the day so on the spur of the moment, we picked up a Papa Murphy’s bacon cheeseburger pizza and headed home. Does that happen to anyone else? The stretched out shopping, I mean – not the pizza.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Books: mountain climbing and K2
To the Summit (and beyond)
After traveling to Colorado last year and realizing I couldn’t bring the mountains home with me, I did the next best thing and dug into books about mountains.
The first couple I found were pretty much travel guides to Colorado. Then I came across Joseph Poindexter’s “To the Summit,” an overview of 50 of the world’s most notable mountains with all kinds of beautiful photos, significant history notes, and interesting facts or stories about each one.
That set me off on a mental expedition to K2 through several other books (plus a couple fictional movies as well). Instead of finding out more about the Rocky Mountains, I ended up geographically on the other side of the world in the Himalayas – in fact, Denver and K2 are at nearly opposite points on the earth.
I didn’t read the books in order because I didn’t find discover them in order, but here’s a list in the chronological sequence I would recommend (and someday will repeat).
Each (except Messner’s) is as well written as a best-selling novel, but tells the dramatic stories of climbing and/or "failing" on the world’s second-highest and most brutal mountain. For mountain climbers, it's considered failure not to reach the summit, even only by a few hundred yards. I suppose, like losing the Super Bowl on a last-second field goal, it's recorded as a loss, but discounts all the success it took to get that close.
I also found that reading these books makes Minnesota winters much more tolerable – after picturing climbers stuck in a tent at 20,000 feet for several days to wait out a blizzard, it doesn’t seem so bad to walk from the office to a cold vehicle at 10-below.
• “The Last Man on the Mountain: the Death of an American Adventurer on K2” (Jennifer Jordan) – the 1939 American expedition led by Fritz Wiessner in which climber Dudley Wolfe died on the mountain; his remains were found by the author of this book 63 years later.
• “K2: The Savage Mountain” (Charles Houston and Bob Bates) – 1953 American expedition. Includes a harrowing incident in which while attempting to descend because of an ill and injured member of the party, six others slipped and fell but were saved by a heroic measure by one of the climbers.
• “In the Throne Room of the Mountain Gods” (Galen Rowell) – the 1975 American expedition which didn’t come close to the summit. It’s still an insightful look into sport of climbing along with intriguing history of K2.
• “The Last Step: the American Ascent of K2” (Rick Ridgeway) – the 1978 American ascent, which was the first successful American expedition getting 4 climbers to the summit.
• “Addicted to Danger” (Jim Wickwire) – This book is about Wick’s career; he was one of the Americans who summitted in ‘79 and made it back, barely.
• “K2: Mountain of Mountains” (Reinhold Messner) Messner climbed K2 without oxygen. Maybe it’s a language barrier, but this one is tough to read.
After traveling to Colorado last year and realizing I couldn’t bring the mountains home with me, I did the next best thing and dug into books about mountains.
The first couple I found were pretty much travel guides to Colorado. Then I came across Joseph Poindexter’s “To the Summit,” an overview of 50 of the world’s most notable mountains with all kinds of beautiful photos, significant history notes, and interesting facts or stories about each one.
That set me off on a mental expedition to K2 through several other books (plus a couple fictional movies as well). Instead of finding out more about the Rocky Mountains, I ended up geographically on the other side of the world in the Himalayas – in fact, Denver and K2 are at nearly opposite points on the earth.
I didn’t read the books in order because I didn’t find discover them in order, but here’s a list in the chronological sequence I would recommend (and someday will repeat).
Each (except Messner’s) is as well written as a best-selling novel, but tells the dramatic stories of climbing and/or "failing" on the world’s second-highest and most brutal mountain. For mountain climbers, it's considered failure not to reach the summit, even only by a few hundred yards. I suppose, like losing the Super Bowl on a last-second field goal, it's recorded as a loss, but discounts all the success it took to get that close.
I also found that reading these books makes Minnesota winters much more tolerable – after picturing climbers stuck in a tent at 20,000 feet for several days to wait out a blizzard, it doesn’t seem so bad to walk from the office to a cold vehicle at 10-below.
• “The Last Man on the Mountain: the Death of an American Adventurer on K2” (Jennifer Jordan) – the 1939 American expedition led by Fritz Wiessner in which climber Dudley Wolfe died on the mountain; his remains were found by the author of this book 63 years later.
• “K2: The Savage Mountain” (Charles Houston and Bob Bates) – 1953 American expedition. Includes a harrowing incident in which while attempting to descend because of an ill and injured member of the party, six others slipped and fell but were saved by a heroic measure by one of the climbers.
• “In the Throne Room of the Mountain Gods” (Galen Rowell) – the 1975 American expedition which didn’t come close to the summit. It’s still an insightful look into sport of climbing along with intriguing history of K2.
• “The Last Step: the American Ascent of K2” (Rick Ridgeway) – the 1978 American ascent, which was the first successful American expedition getting 4 climbers to the summit.
• “Addicted to Danger” (Jim Wickwire) – This book is about Wick’s career; he was one of the Americans who summitted in ‘79 and made it back, barely.
• “K2: Mountain of Mountains” (Reinhold Messner) Messner climbed K2 without oxygen. Maybe it’s a language barrier, but this one is tough to read.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Restaurant review: Smashburger, Plymouth MN
I was introduced to Smashburger on a trip to Colorado, and then was pleased to learn there are several locations here in the Twin Cities area.
Smashburger is like it sounds – fresh ground beef smashed on the grill, to the point that it extends beyond the bun on all sides. The menu includes several burger options, including one locally named. Here, it’s the Twin Cities burger. In Denver, it’s . . . take a guess.
The other great thing about Smashburger: make sure to order Smashfries, not regular fries. These are seasoned with rosemary, olive oil, and garlic.
Both the burgers and the fries tend to get a bit on the juicy/greasy side – enough that you’ll need to wash up afterward – but the flavors are still more than worth it.
There are also chicken sandwiches, which I haven’t tried yet, and probably won’t since I like the burgers too much.
Smashburger is a hybrid fast food – you order at the counter and get number; food is delivered to your table in a few minutes.
Smashburger is like it sounds – fresh ground beef smashed on the grill, to the point that it extends beyond the bun on all sides. The menu includes several burger options, including one locally named. Here, it’s the Twin Cities burger. In Denver, it’s . . . take a guess.
The other great thing about Smashburger: make sure to order Smashfries, not regular fries. These are seasoned with rosemary, olive oil, and garlic.
Both the burgers and the fries tend to get a bit on the juicy/greasy side – enough that you’ll need to wash up afterward – but the flavors are still more than worth it.
There are also chicken sandwiches, which I haven’t tried yet, and probably won’t since I like the burgers too much.
Smashburger is a hybrid fast food – you order at the counter and get number; food is delivered to your table in a few minutes.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Christmas shopping: part 1 of ?
Headed out on our first Christmas shopping effort of the season, which devolved into regular shopping. Actually, one store was playing “Sleigh Bells” so technically it was Christmas shopping.
For variety, we headed a different direction from our usual pattern, starting with lunch at Smashburger in Plymouth and then to Maple Grove and beyond. We went to the same stores as usual – Sam’s Club, Walmart, Kohls – but in a new location. This proved both interesting and confusing, as the store layouts were just different enough to make things hard to find.
My running has been curtailed by a sore hamstring and lack of daylight. Shopping was an opportunity for indoor hiking (more like aimless wandering).
At Sam’s, the game was avoiding the pushy salesperson who wanted to lower my cable bill. I did a long detour to avoid having a Third Encounter of the Close Kind.
Up I-94, we did a quick in-an-out at Cabela’s in Rogers for a special item the didn’t have. “Try online,” the clerk said. “There’s a lot more online than we can handle here.” I guess they need a bigger store.
Then it was on to the Albertville Outlet Mall, where we scored a couple nice shirts off the clearance rack at Old Navy. We continued to rack up reward points by presenting a plastic card to merchants down the line.
Best tip of the day: if you’re specifically looking for the Nike store at Albertville, it’s at the far west end of the complex, a good half-mile from entering the parking lot.
For variety, we headed a different direction from our usual pattern, starting with lunch at Smashburger in Plymouth and then to Maple Grove and beyond. We went to the same stores as usual – Sam’s Club, Walmart, Kohls – but in a new location. This proved both interesting and confusing, as the store layouts were just different enough to make things hard to find.
My running has been curtailed by a sore hamstring and lack of daylight. Shopping was an opportunity for indoor hiking (more like aimless wandering).
At Sam’s, the game was avoiding the pushy salesperson who wanted to lower my cable bill. I did a long detour to avoid having a Third Encounter of the Close Kind.
Up I-94, we did a quick in-an-out at Cabela’s in Rogers for a special item the didn’t have. “Try online,” the clerk said. “There’s a lot more online than we can handle here.” I guess they need a bigger store.
Then it was on to the Albertville Outlet Mall, where we scored a couple nice shirts off the clearance rack at Old Navy. We continued to rack up reward points by presenting a plastic card to merchants down the line.
Best tip of the day: if you’re specifically looking for the Nike store at Albertville, it’s at the far west end of the complex, a good half-mile from entering the parking lot.
Friday, November 1, 2013
Restaurant review: K-Bob Cafe, Princeton, MN
Barely sat down on a busy Saturday lunch rush and waitress was over with water and to take beverage orders. K-Bob Cafe in downtown Princeton has earned its spot as a popular local gathering place.
Had the Southwest Melt – a chicken breast with peppers and tasty southwest sauce – and a Breakfast Melt, a common sausage-egg-cheese combo but served on large deliciously grilled bread instead of a bun.
When out leisurely instead of having to get somewhere, we specifically like to frequent the local establishments instead of brand names.
Even though it sounds more like a radio station than a restaurant, K-Bob is worth a stop if you’re in the area – on the main drag, Rum River Drive, in Princeton.
Had the Southwest Melt – a chicken breast with peppers and tasty southwest sauce – and a Breakfast Melt, a common sausage-egg-cheese combo but served on large deliciously grilled bread instead of a bun.
When out leisurely instead of having to get somewhere, we specifically like to frequent the local establishments instead of brand names.
Even though it sounds more like a radio station than a restaurant, K-Bob is worth a stop if you’re in the area – on the main drag, Rum River Drive, in Princeton.
Monday, October 28, 2013
World Series: sleepless in St. Louis
With the Red Sox holding a 3-2 lead going back to Fenway, it’s been three straight nights of tardy bedtimes.
But it’s been a great show. Not always perfect baseball, but exciting baseball. Games ending on obstruction calls and pick-offs. The Red Sox making errors almost every game, but getting the clutch hits when they need them.
The World Series is especially great to watch on TV (free TV!) because of detailed coverage with numerous camera angles. There are countless replays showing the spin on the ball, the bats vibrating as they make contact with a pitch, you can count the gray hairs in the pitcher’s beard.
The pitch tracker shows how often the home plate umpire misses the call, which has been surprisingly often. It goes both ways – both teams, balls instead of strikes, strikes instead of balls – so I guess it evens out at least.
Most enjoyable is being able to enjoy the sport for the sport itself. It took me decades to learn not to hate certain sports teams. Somehow, the more I hated them, the better they did.
Now, I might or might not have a rooting interest, but have settled down to the point of being able to like just about every team. My cheering this week is for the Series to go a full 7 games.
The final out means no more baseball until next spring, and another long winter is nearly upon us.
--------
I vaguely remember a few years ago when the baseball coverage would show the statistical chance of success in each current situation – for example, how often a team would score, say, with a man on first and one out in the eighth inning. This feature disappeared as quickly as it surfaced – I suspect, because it ruined the game for fans.
Baseball is about hope – hope that something good will happen in each situation even though the chances are somewhat remote. There’s a chance of a home run on every pitch, but if you figure out how often a home run actually occurs, it’s not very often (it appears to be safely under 1 percent). I suppose it’s like if at a casino, you were clearly informed before each bet how much the odds are against you. That’s no fun.
But it’s been a great show. Not always perfect baseball, but exciting baseball. Games ending on obstruction calls and pick-offs. The Red Sox making errors almost every game, but getting the clutch hits when they need them.
The World Series is especially great to watch on TV (free TV!) because of detailed coverage with numerous camera angles. There are countless replays showing the spin on the ball, the bats vibrating as they make contact with a pitch, you can count the gray hairs in the pitcher’s beard.
The pitch tracker shows how often the home plate umpire misses the call, which has been surprisingly often. It goes both ways – both teams, balls instead of strikes, strikes instead of balls – so I guess it evens out at least.
Most enjoyable is being able to enjoy the sport for the sport itself. It took me decades to learn not to hate certain sports teams. Somehow, the more I hated them, the better they did.
Now, I might or might not have a rooting interest, but have settled down to the point of being able to like just about every team. My cheering this week is for the Series to go a full 7 games.
The final out means no more baseball until next spring, and another long winter is nearly upon us.
--------
I vaguely remember a few years ago when the baseball coverage would show the statistical chance of success in each current situation – for example, how often a team would score, say, with a man on first and one out in the eighth inning. This feature disappeared as quickly as it surfaced – I suspect, because it ruined the game for fans.
Baseball is about hope – hope that something good will happen in each situation even though the chances are somewhat remote. There’s a chance of a home run on every pitch, but if you figure out how often a home run actually occurs, it’s not very often (it appears to be safely under 1 percent). I suppose it’s like if at a casino, you were clearly informed before each bet how much the odds are against you. That’s no fun.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Garage sales: lost in suburbia
Followed “garage sale” signs into a neighborhood of a 10-year-old homes in a strange town on our way up north.
Picked up a couple little things. Then got lost. Couldn’t find our way out of the twisting and turning maze of how housing developments are built these days.
After three passes by the same parked truck, without a GPS to talk us through it, and even the sun hiding behind the clouds, I did the next best thing. No, it wasn’t asking for directions. Just started following another vehicle, hoping it was headed “out” and not home.
It was, and we were saved.
So why do they design housing developments like a board game instead of the traditional square-block method with numbered and alphabetical streets so you can find your way in and out?
They’ll probably talk about the pleasing appearance of curved streets and irregular sight lines (but not that there are only two siding colors to pick from). My theory is that they can get even more homes per acre squeezed in, and thus it’s more profitable.
Picked up a couple little things. Then got lost. Couldn’t find our way out of the twisting and turning maze of how housing developments are built these days.
After three passes by the same parked truck, without a GPS to talk us through it, and even the sun hiding behind the clouds, I did the next best thing. No, it wasn’t asking for directions. Just started following another vehicle, hoping it was headed “out” and not home.
It was, and we were saved.
So why do they design housing developments like a board game instead of the traditional square-block method with numbered and alphabetical streets so you can find your way in and out?
They’ll probably talk about the pleasing appearance of curved streets and irregular sight lines (but not that there are only two siding colors to pick from). My theory is that they can get even more homes per acre squeezed in, and thus it’s more profitable.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Sports: World Series winners
How hard is it to get to the World Series and win it?
This year, we’ll have a team that will win its third title within 10 years, whether it’s either the Red Sox or Cardinals.
If we look at the last nine seasons, several teams repeat appearances while a few others show up once and then are gone. Here would be the standings:
NATIONAL:
San Francisco 2-0
St. Louis 2-1
Philadelphia 1-1
Colorado 0-1
Houston 0-1
AMERICAN:
Boston 2-0
New York Yankees 1-0
Chicago White Sox 1-0
Tampa Bay 0-1
Detroit 0-2
Texas 0-2
So in that list, we notice:
• St. Louis is in its 4th World Series in 10 years
• of those that made it in consecutive years, the Phillies split while the Rangers lost both times.
• Detroit is 0-2, and just missed getting there again this year
• Texas at 0-2 was the victim of the Cardinals’ storybook comeback in 2011, twice down by two runs and at the last strike before rallying to tie, again fall behind, and then win
• The storied Yankees have made it only once in the last 10 years.
• The high-paid Dodgers came close this year but didn’t make it. The low-paid A’s haven’t made it to the Series but have been in the playoffs often.
This year, we’ll have a team that will win its third title within 10 years, whether it’s either the Red Sox or Cardinals.
If we look at the last nine seasons, several teams repeat appearances while a few others show up once and then are gone. Here would be the standings:
NATIONAL:
San Francisco 2-0
St. Louis 2-1
Philadelphia 1-1
Colorado 0-1
Houston 0-1
AMERICAN:
Boston 2-0
New York Yankees 1-0
Chicago White Sox 1-0
Tampa Bay 0-1
Detroit 0-2
Texas 0-2
So in that list, we notice:
• St. Louis is in its 4th World Series in 10 years
• of those that made it in consecutive years, the Phillies split while the Rangers lost both times.
• Detroit is 0-2, and just missed getting there again this year
• Texas at 0-2 was the victim of the Cardinals’ storybook comeback in 2011, twice down by two runs and at the last strike before rallying to tie, again fall behind, and then win
• The storied Yankees have made it only once in the last 10 years.
• The high-paid Dodgers came close this year but didn’t make it. The low-paid A’s haven’t made it to the Series but have been in the playoffs often.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Book review: Ball Four
In honor of the World Series, a baseball book: "Ball Four" by Jim Bouton.
This is an old one, which was highly controversial in its day. Written primarily in diary form, Bouton tells the day-to-day stories from throughout the 1969 season with the Seattle Pilots and Houston Astros. (The Pilots existed for only one year, becoming the Milwaukee Brewers the following season.)
Although it blew the lid off the baseball world at the time, it does show players as human beings going through the stress, drudgery, excitement – all the ups and downs of a several-month long season – and including the late nights, drinking, swearing, fights, contract issues, etc. Everything that happens behind the scenes, but in those days, as not acknowledged publicly.
I remember that I read it as a kid then, but nothing particular came back to me, other than the names of many famous players who were the stars at the time.
Some of the best lines:
• Pilots manager Joe Schultz: “It’s a round ball and a round bat and you got to hit it square.”
• Pitching coach Johnny Sain: “The world doesn’t want to hear about labor pains. It only wants to see the baby.”
• Baseball second-guessing: “If a guy can’t hit the curve ball, keep throwing the damn things until he proves to you he can hit it” followed by “ You can’t keep throwing a guy the same thing. He’s bound to hit it.”
• And along those lines, pitching scouting reports often talk about a player being a good first-ball hitter. “I want to hear somebody say ‘Good third-ball hitter. Likes to hit that third pitch.’ Then I’ll have learned something.”
• Greg Goossen, doing a Casey Stengel impression: “We got a kid here named Goossen, twenty years old, and in ten years, he’s got a chance to be thirty.”
This is an old one, which was highly controversial in its day. Written primarily in diary form, Bouton tells the day-to-day stories from throughout the 1969 season with the Seattle Pilots and Houston Astros. (The Pilots existed for only one year, becoming the Milwaukee Brewers the following season.)
Although it blew the lid off the baseball world at the time, it does show players as human beings going through the stress, drudgery, excitement – all the ups and downs of a several-month long season – and including the late nights, drinking, swearing, fights, contract issues, etc. Everything that happens behind the scenes, but in those days, as not acknowledged publicly.
I remember that I read it as a kid then, but nothing particular came back to me, other than the names of many famous players who were the stars at the time.
Some of the best lines:
• Pilots manager Joe Schultz: “It’s a round ball and a round bat and you got to hit it square.”
• Pitching coach Johnny Sain: “The world doesn’t want to hear about labor pains. It only wants to see the baby.”
• Baseball second-guessing: “If a guy can’t hit the curve ball, keep throwing the damn things until he proves to you he can hit it” followed by “ You can’t keep throwing a guy the same thing. He’s bound to hit it.”
• And along those lines, pitching scouting reports often talk about a player being a good first-ball hitter. “I want to hear somebody say ‘Good third-ball hitter. Likes to hit that third pitch.’ Then I’ll have learned something.”
• Greg Goossen, doing a Casey Stengel impression: “We got a kid here named Goossen, twenty years old, and in ten years, he’s got a chance to be thirty.”
Friday, October 18, 2013
Hiking: Banning State Park
Hiked the Quarry Trail, about a 2-mile loop that features the area’s history as a sandstone quarry back into the 1800s.To do this, pick up a brochure at the park office. It has summaries that correspond to marked points on the trail. Park at the picnic grounds lot and you can go right to the trail.
We started out at the boat landing instead and followed the river for several hundred yards, which gave us more scenic views and the opportunity to do a little scrambling on the sandstone formations.
Where the Quarry Trail turns around, there is the option to go out another quarter-mile to Hell’s Gate, a narrow passageway and rapids that caused many logjams back in the days of logging.
We only had time for this trail, but had a gorgeous sunny fall day – not too hot, not too cool, no bugs, no worries. (That comes when it’s back to work.)
Banning has more to offer, including a bat cave. The office worker said it was closed off at the time and recommended a return trip another time. Sounds like a deal.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Travel: Kettle River
When you think of Hinckley, MN, what comes to mind? Grand Casino. Tobie’s – the famous “halfway to Duluth” point. The fire museum.
But there’s another less-noticed, nearby treasure: the Kettle River.
We took a wide western loop on back roads to get there for a Columbus Day weekend trip, traveling on a rainy
Saturday. Due to the late season this year, we just managed to catch what seemed to be the last day of colorful leaves. By Sunday night, Monday for sure, the trees were noticeably more barren than just 24 hours before.
Instead of hotels, we gone the private rental way the last few years and have never been disappointed. vrbo.com (vacation rentals by owner), lakeplace.com, homeaway.com – they all work basically the same. Rent a private property for your vacation instead of a commercial site.
In this case, we got a cabin on 25 acres abutting the Kettle River for about $170/night. There even was a canoe to use, though we didn’t take it out. The leaves were in full color, so we made several hikes into the woods right on “our property.”
We also followed the Kettle River in Banning State Park (more in another post shortly) as well as in Sandstone.
Tried a little fishing, but didn’t put in the effort to give it a fair shot. The currents were a bit odd, as our bobbers tended to drift upstream instead.
The Kettle was a nice memory place as that was one of our stops on our very first trip to Duluth long ago. And it remains a nice get-away place to visit, especially with the privacy of a rented cabin.
But there’s another less-noticed, nearby treasure: the Kettle River.
We took a wide western loop on back roads to get there for a Columbus Day weekend trip, traveling on a rainy
Saturday. Due to the late season this year, we just managed to catch what seemed to be the last day of colorful leaves. By Sunday night, Monday for sure, the trees were noticeably more barren than just 24 hours before.
Instead of hotels, we gone the private rental way the last few years and have never been disappointed. vrbo.com (vacation rentals by owner), lakeplace.com, homeaway.com – they all work basically the same. Rent a private property for your vacation instead of a commercial site.
In this case, we got a cabin on 25 acres abutting the Kettle River for about $170/night. There even was a canoe to use, though we didn’t take it out. The leaves were in full color, so we made several hikes into the woods right on “our property.”
We also followed the Kettle River in Banning State Park (more in another post shortly) as well as in Sandstone.
Tried a little fishing, but didn’t put in the effort to give it a fair shot. The currents were a bit odd, as our bobbers tended to drift upstream instead.
The Kettle was a nice memory place as that was one of our stops on our very first trip to Duluth long ago. And it remains a nice get-away place to visit, especially with the privacy of a rented cabin.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Sports: our teams aren't all losers
As sports fans, we sometimes like to joke – or seriously complain – about how big of losers our favorite teams are.
If you look at the numbers, though, the picture isn’t quite as bleak as one might imagine.
Let’s start with the Vikings, who I refuse to spend three hours a week with these days. Through last season, their all-time regular season record, excluding ties, is 426-355, a .545 winning percentage. Not bad, really. Throw in the playoffs, and it dips to .538 with a 445-382 mark.
Through 2013, the Twins – since they became the Twins and not the Senators – stand at .498 with a 4,204-4,243 record. As recently as two years ago, they were above .500 all-time.
The Wild, who haven’t been around as long, are chugging along at 431-381 (again excluding ties, which there are a lot of in hockey) for a .531 mark.
Finally, the Timberwolves have actually won 731 games in their existence with 1,107 losses for a .398 percentage. I would have thought it to be much worse, given all the miserable seasons and should-have-been-lottery-draft-picks.
Bottom line: they’re not so bad. The competitive balance of pro sports is so strong that you have to be really awful for a long time, and even then you win 4 out of 10.
If you look at the numbers, though, the picture isn’t quite as bleak as one might imagine.
Let’s start with the Vikings, who I refuse to spend three hours a week with these days. Through last season, their all-time regular season record, excluding ties, is 426-355, a .545 winning percentage. Not bad, really. Throw in the playoffs, and it dips to .538 with a 445-382 mark.
Through 2013, the Twins – since they became the Twins and not the Senators – stand at .498 with a 4,204-4,243 record. As recently as two years ago, they were above .500 all-time.
The Wild, who haven’t been around as long, are chugging along at 431-381 (again excluding ties, which there are a lot of in hockey) for a .531 mark.
Finally, the Timberwolves have actually won 731 games in their existence with 1,107 losses for a .398 percentage. I would have thought it to be much worse, given all the miserable seasons and should-have-been-lottery-draft-picks.
Bottom line: they’re not so bad. The competitive balance of pro sports is so strong that you have to be really awful for a long time, and even then you win 4 out of 10.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Restaurant review: Biaggi's, Eden Prairie MN
Got the opportunity to visit Biaggi’s wine room with a group of friends – a private dining experience with house-selected foods paired with samples of wine.
Unfortunately, since I’m not much of a wine guy and not too refined on the whole fine dining thing, I neither fully grasped the experience or am qualified to evaluate the offerings.
The service was excellent with a brief introduction before each of the four courses, explaining what was before us, both the food and accompanying wine.
Everything was tasty enough, but from my humble view, it turned out to be what I somewhat expected: as with fine dining, it’s about the atmosphere and presentation, not the quantity. This ain’t no casino buffet. We really could have used at least twice as much food as was served for the number of people present.
So if you choose to spend the money, know what you’re getting into. If that’s your scene, it’s a wonderful night out. If you’re more into the food itself than elegance, make a different choice.
Someone joked about stopping at Burger King on the way home. Which wouldn’t have been a bad idea.
Unfortunately, since I’m not much of a wine guy and not too refined on the whole fine dining thing, I neither fully grasped the experience or am qualified to evaluate the offerings.
The service was excellent with a brief introduction before each of the four courses, explaining what was before us, both the food and accompanying wine.
Everything was tasty enough, but from my humble view, it turned out to be what I somewhat expected: as with fine dining, it’s about the atmosphere and presentation, not the quantity. This ain’t no casino buffet. We really could have used at least twice as much food as was served for the number of people present.
So if you choose to spend the money, know what you’re getting into. If that’s your scene, it’s a wonderful night out. If you’re more into the food itself than elegance, make a different choice.
Someone joked about stopping at Burger King on the way home. Which wouldn’t have been a bad idea.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Sports: getting popped by the cable bubble
I’m not in the right group. I stubbornly refuse to pay for television – either cable or satellite – so I just don’t fit.
Most of the time, free tv over the broadcast airwaves is satisfactory, since I don’t have enough time to watch a lot of sports anyway. But now, with most of the Major League Baseball playoffs only on cable, I’m left on the outside, having to go to someone else’s house, a sports bar, or just track scores online.
Here’s a long but interesting article about the “sports cable bubble.”
To sum it up, a lot of pepole who don’t care at all about sports are being forced to pay for them through their cable packages. You have buy a “bundle” of programming which most likely includes some channels you don’t want. For some people, that is sports.
But by making all those people pay for sports even if they don’t want it, there is so much money coming in that even average professional athletes can earn millions of dollars a year.
It also means that the pay-tv companies are so profitable that they can force more and more programming into a paid-only format, like what is happening with MLB now. Enough people pay, either willingly or through forced bundles, that those like me don’t have many freebies left anymore.
It’s a balancing act for big-time sports to have enough of your product shown free on tv to get enough interest from enough people that enough of them will pay for it so you don’t have to give it away anymore. Unfortunately, the scales are tipping way in their favor right now.
Most of the time, free tv over the broadcast airwaves is satisfactory, since I don’t have enough time to watch a lot of sports anyway. But now, with most of the Major League Baseball playoffs only on cable, I’m left on the outside, having to go to someone else’s house, a sports bar, or just track scores online.
Here’s a long but interesting article about the “sports cable bubble.”
To sum it up, a lot of pepole who don’t care at all about sports are being forced to pay for them through their cable packages. You have buy a “bundle” of programming which most likely includes some channels you don’t want. For some people, that is sports.
But by making all those people pay for sports even if they don’t want it, there is so much money coming in that even average professional athletes can earn millions of dollars a year.
It also means that the pay-tv companies are so profitable that they can force more and more programming into a paid-only format, like what is happening with MLB now. Enough people pay, either willingly or through forced bundles, that those like me don’t have many freebies left anymore.
It’s a balancing act for big-time sports to have enough of your product shown free on tv to get enough interest from enough people that enough of them will pay for it so you don’t have to give it away anymore. Unfortunately, the scales are tipping way in their favor right now.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Running: best photos from Twin Cities Marathon
Been digging through all the cover of the Twin Cities Marathon and 10 Mile races.
Here's just a terrific set of photos from the Pioneer Press/Twin Cities.com. Oh, the joy and the pain!
Some other interesting ones:
• Photos along the way
• Chewbacca costume
• Dave Ryan show
• narrative of the 10-Mile
Here's just a terrific set of photos from the Pioneer Press/Twin Cities.com. Oh, the joy and the pain!
Some other interesting ones:
• Photos along the way
• Chewbacca costume
• Dave Ryan show
• narrative of the 10-Mile
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Running: favorite moments in the Twin Cities 10 Mile
• The weather: despite gloomy predictions, it opened up into perfect running weather, at least most of the morning.
• The start: I was concerned our corral would go out too fast, but they didn’t. Twenty yards in, I thought “This will be easy.” Nice confidence-builder.
• It must have been easy. I was unofficially timed at 0:00 flat for the first mile (forgot to start my watch).
• Crossing the Franklin Ave. bridge, with the sun just starting to peek out, was a peaceful scene.
• Even more spectacular, approaching St. Thomas – against the sun with many runners’ breath visible in the crisp autumn air.
• The “Holiday Road” music blasting at Summit and Oxford was a great lift. Thanks.
• I wanted to yell something like “Lower my taxes!” while passing the governor’s mansion, but somehow missed the opportunity.
• On the final descent past the cathedral, one guy had a camera and was shooting pictures on the run. Hope he got some good ones.
• The sweat check and pick-up was remarkably efficient and well organized. Clearly, this wasn’t a government-run operation.
• Carrie Tollefson: the lady had a baby four months ago, ran a full marathon today in just over three hours, and a few minutes after that did a full media interview on the big screen without a huff or puff. I was impressed.
Best of all: sharing the last 7 miles with the Twin Cities Marathon course. It was like getting to run a marathon but cheating. And it was like running the junior varsity race and then settling in to watch really good runners finish.
• The start: I was concerned our corral would go out too fast, but they didn’t. Twenty yards in, I thought “This will be easy.” Nice confidence-builder.
• It must have been easy. I was unofficially timed at 0:00 flat for the first mile (forgot to start my watch).
• Crossing the Franklin Ave. bridge, with the sun just starting to peek out, was a peaceful scene.
• Even more spectacular, approaching St. Thomas – against the sun with many runners’ breath visible in the crisp autumn air.
• The “Holiday Road” music blasting at Summit and Oxford was a great lift. Thanks.
• I wanted to yell something like “Lower my taxes!” while passing the governor’s mansion, but somehow missed the opportunity.
• On the final descent past the cathedral, one guy had a camera and was shooting pictures on the run. Hope he got some good ones.
• The sweat check and pick-up was remarkably efficient and well organized. Clearly, this wasn’t a government-run operation.
• Carrie Tollefson: the lady had a baby four months ago, ran a full marathon today in just over three hours, and a few minutes after that did a full media interview on the big screen without a huff or puff. I was impressed.
Best of all: sharing the last 7 miles with the Twin Cities Marathon course. It was like getting to run a marathon but cheating. And it was like running the junior varsity race and then settling in to watch really good runners finish.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Running: anticipation for Twin Cities 10 Mile
I wonder what the neighbors think. It’s 44 degrees Wednesday morning. I’m out standing in my driveway in a t-shirt and shorts from 6:30 to 7 a.m.
That’s because I’m training for the Twin Cities 10 Mile. The running will be easy. Two things I’m not good at are waiting and being cold. I expect that I’ll have to multi-task and do both at the same time Sunday morning; that’s why I’m practicing.
My back hurts when I stand in the same spot too long. I doubt they’ll let me bring a lawn chair into the starting corral. So I’m on the home stretch of training for this event. I’ve got over 800 miles of running (or jogging) logged this year. Now the difficult part: the pre-race wait. Dressing appropriately for running and waiting are different things.
I’m also trying to plan ahead. Usually I don’t like to wear a cap running, but Sunday I will because we will be running into the sun. That’s another thing about running: it goes better when I can see where I’m going.
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Why am I doing this?
That’s a question that pops into mind every once awhile. In this case, I can certainly do it cheaper and more conveniently – I can run 10 miles for free any day I choose around home, and without waiting.
Here, it’s the spectacle of the event itself. Almost 10,000 runners crowded into city streets. Something beyond my usual choices, something way beyond my comfort zone. Going to the extreme (when I got this wild hair two years ago, it was “I run 3 miles a day, no problem going 10.”) Not much different, right?
Then add in the start and finish points: the Metrodome, a much better and more valuable facility than many people give it credit for; and the state capitol, where I went in sixth grade to see the golden horses (and maybe learn something).
I’ll either be hooked beyond hope and back every year, or satisfied that this was my one and only entry into a race of this proportion. We’ll be like wildebeests rushing across the Serengeti, which brings up the disturbing question: if someone goes off course and into the river, will we all follow?
That’s because I’m training for the Twin Cities 10 Mile. The running will be easy. Two things I’m not good at are waiting and being cold. I expect that I’ll have to multi-task and do both at the same time Sunday morning; that’s why I’m practicing.
My back hurts when I stand in the same spot too long. I doubt they’ll let me bring a lawn chair into the starting corral. So I’m on the home stretch of training for this event. I’ve got over 800 miles of running (or jogging) logged this year. Now the difficult part: the pre-race wait. Dressing appropriately for running and waiting are different things.
I’m also trying to plan ahead. Usually I don’t like to wear a cap running, but Sunday I will because we will be running into the sun. That’s another thing about running: it goes better when I can see where I’m going.
-------------
Why am I doing this?
That’s a question that pops into mind every once awhile. In this case, I can certainly do it cheaper and more conveniently – I can run 10 miles for free any day I choose around home, and without waiting.
Here, it’s the spectacle of the event itself. Almost 10,000 runners crowded into city streets. Something beyond my usual choices, something way beyond my comfort zone. Going to the extreme (when I got this wild hair two years ago, it was “I run 3 miles a day, no problem going 10.”) Not much different, right?
Then add in the start and finish points: the Metrodome, a much better and more valuable facility than many people give it credit for; and the state capitol, where I went in sixth grade to see the golden horses (and maybe learn something).
I’ll either be hooked beyond hope and back every year, or satisfied that this was my one and only entry into a race of this proportion. We’ll be like wildebeests rushing across the Serengeti, which brings up the disturbing question: if someone goes off course and into the river, will we all follow?
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Bicycling: do you really need a helmet?
First, I admit to growing up before cars even had seat belts. Bicycle safety consisted of learning the hand signals and then paying attention to traffic.
Sorry, but I just shake my head in disappointment and sympathy for today’s bike helmet culture. Yes, there are situations where wearing a helmet is absolutely necessary.
But, I believe there are ones where it’s equally foolish. On a vacant trail at 6 in the morning on a weekday, you do not need a helmet. There is no other traffic. Maybe there’s a small animal or hole or a spot of loose sand. But do you have that little confidence in your ability to operate a bicycle? If so, is it really any fun?
Be smart, but if you’re going to enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the outdoors, and that means sometimes shedding the overdone safety measures when there isn’t that much risk present.
Sorry, but I just shake my head in disappointment and sympathy for today’s bike helmet culture. Yes, there are situations where wearing a helmet is absolutely necessary.
But, I believe there are ones where it’s equally foolish. On a vacant trail at 6 in the morning on a weekday, you do not need a helmet. There is no other traffic. Maybe there’s a small animal or hole or a spot of loose sand. But do you have that little confidence in your ability to operate a bicycle? If so, is it really any fun?
Be smart, but if you’re going to enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the outdoors, and that means sometimes shedding the overdone safety measures when there isn’t that much risk present.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Sports: baseball uniforms
Here’s an interesting question on the “controversial” topic of baseball uniforms from MLB:
My preference falls with the guy who says let the home team choose first, and then the visitors need to pick something contrasting.
Whites and grays are fine, but get old after awhile. I do like the occasional switch into some colored tops. But even though it doesn’t affect the game, when both teams wear the same colors, it’s just not as good to watch.
In any sport, it’s nice to have differing uniform colors. Once in awhile even in football or basketball, the “white” uniform will be so loaded with other colors, the contrast between teams is lost. Dominant red vs. blue, green vs. gold, or whatever is best whenever possible.
What I really dislike is the overdone “throwback” uniforms. They tend to be really ugly. Maybe if the home team wore them for an occasion honoring something, but don’t make the visitors do it, too! Once every three yeas or so, a throwback mixes it up a bit, but otherwise stick to regular uniforms and either put more talent on the field or lower ticket prices.
My preference falls with the guy who says let the home team choose first, and then the visitors need to pick something contrasting.
Whites and grays are fine, but get old after awhile. I do like the occasional switch into some colored tops. But even though it doesn’t affect the game, when both teams wear the same colors, it’s just not as good to watch.
In any sport, it’s nice to have differing uniform colors. Once in awhile even in football or basketball, the “white” uniform will be so loaded with other colors, the contrast between teams is lost. Dominant red vs. blue, green vs. gold, or whatever is best whenever possible.
What I really dislike is the overdone “throwback” uniforms. They tend to be really ugly. Maybe if the home team wore them for an occasion honoring something, but don’t make the visitors do it, too! Once every three yeas or so, a throwback mixes it up a bit, but otherwise stick to regular uniforms and either put more talent on the field or lower ticket prices.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Running: one week to Twin Cities 10-Mile
The training is done, except for some tapering. I’m not going to get any better any more.
This will be the largest race I’ve ever been in by far, so we’re trying to figure out some of the logistics of getting where we need to be on time. We can dress for the weather, the running will be relatively easy – it’s getting there (and home) without turning a 10-mile run into a 20-mile walk.
This was the race I eyed up a couple years ago as interesting because of its attractive course – from the Metrodome (while there still is a Metrodome) to the state capitol, two TC landmarks.
We’ve done a couple 10-mile events, a half marathon, and a few long training runs (9.5 yesterday). Finishing shouldn’t be an issue, and time is only a minor goal. I’m looking forward to the experience of everything about it, including the entire TC Marathon weekend.
I still want to do some more waiting practice, because that’s the part that is most difficult. Usually, I can step out the door and start running. Waiting for some time, especially if it’s cold, is a whole challenge in itself.
This will be the largest race I’ve ever been in by far, so we’re trying to figure out some of the logistics of getting where we need to be on time. We can dress for the weather, the running will be relatively easy – it’s getting there (and home) without turning a 10-mile run into a 20-mile walk.
This was the race I eyed up a couple years ago as interesting because of its attractive course – from the Metrodome (while there still is a Metrodome) to the state capitol, two TC landmarks.
We’ve done a couple 10-mile events, a half marathon, and a few long training runs (9.5 yesterday). Finishing shouldn’t be an issue, and time is only a minor goal. I’m looking forward to the experience of everything about it, including the entire TC Marathon weekend.
I still want to do some more waiting practice, because that’s the part that is most difficult. Usually, I can step out the door and start running. Waiting for some time, especially if it’s cold, is a whole challenge in itself.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Book review: in memory of the 2013 MN Twins
One more baseball book – title is: “100 Things Twins Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die” by Alex Halstad.
Sorry, but this one doesn’t cut it. Although it has the variety and is comprehensive enough about the Twins’ 50-plus years, it lacks on three points:
• Repetitive – when topics overlap, too much detail is repeated in multiple places. For example, a player’s performance in the World Series would be repeated in both essays.
• Organization – it probably was intentional, but the topics jump around as if drawn from a hat. An organized outline might have helped alleviate the repetitiveness as well.
• Writing – although clean, it just isn’t quite interesting enough. Reads like a book report.
Instead, I would recommend Steve Ascheburner’s “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.”
Although a few years older and thus pre-Target Field, it covers much of the same material without the flaws above. I own a copy because I left it out in the rain on vacation and the library made me buy it.
Sorry, but this one doesn’t cut it. Although it has the variety and is comprehensive enough about the Twins’ 50-plus years, it lacks on three points:
• Repetitive – when topics overlap, too much detail is repeated in multiple places. For example, a player’s performance in the World Series would be repeated in both essays.
• Organization – it probably was intentional, but the topics jump around as if drawn from a hat. An organized outline might have helped alleviate the repetitiveness as well.
• Writing – although clean, it just isn’t quite interesting enough. Reads like a book report.
Instead, I would recommend Steve Ascheburner’s “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.”
Although a few years older and thus pre-Target Field, it covers much of the same material without the flaws above. I own a copy because I left it out in the rain on vacation and the library made me buy it.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Follow-ups: Mauer, Moneyball
Joe Mauer got a concussion Aug. 19. On Sept. 4, I predicted he wouldn’t play again this season. On Sept. 24, the Twins said so too.
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Ten years later, the Oakland A’s are still at it, and in the playoffs. Swingin’ A’s describes their new “Moneyball” approach: the platoon system. Another great look into making statistics work favorably.
With the A's success this year, here are a couple more looks from MLB and even Japan.
Sports: dark colored football pants
I’ve noticed this for several years now, and haven’t been able to get an actual answer, but why do so many high school football teams have dark-colored uniform pants now?
There are rarely any white ones any more, and most are not just gold or silver, but the darkest of each school’s colors.
The only reason I can come up with is that getting white pants white proved to be too difficult for too many parents who had to wash them, so the schools punted, so to speak, and chose dark uniforms that hide the stains a little better.
There are rarely any white ones any more, and most are not just gold or silver, but the darkest of each school’s colors.
The only reason I can come up with is that getting white pants white proved to be too difficult for too many parents who had to wash them, so the schools punted, so to speak, and chose dark uniforms that hide the stains a little better.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Book review: Three Nights in August
As promised, another baseball book:
Full name: “Three Nights in August: Strategy, Heartbreak, and Joy Inside the Mind of a Manager” by Buzz Bissinger, author of Friday Night Lights (that’s a book too, not just a movie and tv show), and Tony La Russa.
Also 10 years old, but like many great finds turned up in an obscure reference and when checked out, is enjoyment beyond expectations.
This centers on Tony La Russa and the St. Louis Cardinals of 2003, focused on a late-season series against the rival Chicago Cubs in the heat of the pennant race, but spreads out to the whole season, often going into background and back stories of the players involved. It shows us the strategy and planning of match-ups – weeks ahead, innings ahead, or pitch by pitch.
In one case, half an inning lasts a whole chapter describing what backgrounds and attitudes the players brought with them (free agent year, established star status, etc.) and the strategic shifts with each change in the count.
It is a great look at well-known La Russa – a Twins foe in the late ‘80s – and is a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys major league baseball.
From the book: You need to know who to leave alone, who to pat on the butt, and who to kick in the butt. The manager is a tactician, psychologist, and riverboat gambler.
From me: Baseball is the greatest sequential game. When down to the last pitch, an out can make it a loss, a home run a victory, or somewhere in between it’s tied up and goes on for three more hours.
Full name: “Three Nights in August: Strategy, Heartbreak, and Joy Inside the Mind of a Manager” by Buzz Bissinger, author of Friday Night Lights (that’s a book too, not just a movie and tv show), and Tony La Russa.
Also 10 years old, but like many great finds turned up in an obscure reference and when checked out, is enjoyment beyond expectations.
This centers on Tony La Russa and the St. Louis Cardinals of 2003, focused on a late-season series against the rival Chicago Cubs in the heat of the pennant race, but spreads out to the whole season, often going into background and back stories of the players involved. It shows us the strategy and planning of match-ups – weeks ahead, innings ahead, or pitch by pitch.
In one case, half an inning lasts a whole chapter describing what backgrounds and attitudes the players brought with them (free agent year, established star status, etc.) and the strategic shifts with each change in the count.
It is a great look at well-known La Russa – a Twins foe in the late ‘80s – and is a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys major league baseball.
From the book: You need to know who to leave alone, who to pat on the butt, and who to kick in the butt. The manager is a tactician, psychologist, and riverboat gambler.
From me: Baseball is the greatest sequential game. When down to the last pitch, an out can make it a loss, a home run a victory, or somewhere in between it’s tied up and goes on for three more hours.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Fishing: Rock Lake (Wright County)
Postcard fall day. Blue sky, bright sun, a few leaves hinting at yellow colors to come, cool but comfortable – cool enough to keep the skiers and personal watercrafts on shore. (Actually, a great football day.)
But no fish. Rock is often worth the trip, but this was one of those days it wasn’t. Only a few faint nibbles and then finally a little bass, not even half a pound. Rest of the party got an even smaller perch and an even smaller yet sunnie.
Trolled, still-fished, casted for bass . . . supper was out of the refrigerator.
But no fish. Rock is often worth the trip, but this was one of those days it wasn’t. Only a few faint nibbles and then finally a little bass, not even half a pound. Rest of the party got an even smaller perch and an even smaller yet sunnie.
Trolled, still-fished, casted for bass . . . supper was out of the refrigerator.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Outdoors: cold weather conditioning
Summer is over – officially. For some reason, it’s always much harder to get acclimated to weather as it gets colder in the fall (and winter) than when it warms up.
Somewhere I read, perhaps in a waiting room magazine, that “there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate dress.” That became my mantra for awhile, and to a large degree, it’s basically true.
I’ve become a lot more tolerant of weather in the last few years, even intentionally trying to enjoy the extremes. It does feel better to find the beauty in the snowflakes or the thunderclouds than complaining when it isn’t perfect, because it very rarely is perfect. And when it is, it doesn’t last anyway.
Last year, I learned to run in zero degrees and snowstorms, so there is something to that “appropriate dress” thinking.
Now that I can cope with weather, I’m still up against shrinking daylight. Today marks the autumnal equinox where our light and darkness are equal. That means we have three more months of progressively shorter days.
I suppose the only way to overcome that is to move to the land of the midnight sun.
Somewhere I read, perhaps in a waiting room magazine, that “there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate dress.” That became my mantra for awhile, and to a large degree, it’s basically true.
I’ve become a lot more tolerant of weather in the last few years, even intentionally trying to enjoy the extremes. It does feel better to find the beauty in the snowflakes or the thunderclouds than complaining when it isn’t perfect, because it very rarely is perfect. And when it is, it doesn’t last anyway.
Last year, I learned to run in zero degrees and snowstorms, so there is something to that “appropriate dress” thinking.
Now that I can cope with weather, I’m still up against shrinking daylight. Today marks the autumnal equinox where our light and darkness are equal. That means we have three more months of progressively shorter days.
I suppose the only way to overcome that is to move to the land of the midnight sun.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Book review: Moneyball
Baseball is heading into its prime time of pennant races so a couple baseball book reviews are in order.
Moneyball: this is about 10 years old but I just found it. Didn’t know there was a book (by Michael Lewis), just a movie.
The subject, of course, is about the Oakland A’s achieving success with a low payroll by emphasizing lesser valued stats such as on-base percentage and slugging percentage in evaluating players. That and specifically looking for under-valued players while getting rid of high-priced ones that aren’t proportionately better at getting on base and avoiding outs.
Some examples:
Saves – a slightly above average pitcher can come in for the ninth with bases empty and succeed most of the time. Once established as a “closer,” he’s worth millions. Then it pays to sell/trade him for something of value, and develop another one.
Given the minimum salary requirements and assuming at least 49 victories by even the worst of major league clubs, how much money is spent on each victory above that threshold? Doug Pappas calculated in the three years prior to the book, the A’s paid only about $500,000 per win while teams like Baltimore and Texas paid nearly $3 million for each victory. Not surprising, the only other team in six figures was the Twins at about $675,000 per win.
Voros McCracken took on pitchers’ worth by looking at what pitchers can control: preventing home runs, preventing walks, and preventing balls in play by striking out batters. Once the ball is hit, he proved, there is quite little the pitcher can do about it – measured over a long period, the stats bear out that there’s lot of luck involved (the scorching line drive right at the shortshop vs. the broken bat bloop that falls just inside the foul line). Sort of puts a damper on the Twins’ pitch-to-contact approach.
AVM Systems also dove into the aspect of measuring luck and players’ actual performance in each event on the field. Example: bloop to left field with known-to-be-slow left fielder with runner on second and two out. Knowing the fielder is slow, the runner takes off and scores. The record shows the batter succeeded, the pitcher failed, and the runner and left fielder were present. More fairly, the pitcher (who made a great pitch) and runner (who used the situation to score) succeeded while the batter (should-have-been-an-out hit) and the left fielder (didn’t get to the ball) failed.
Over the length of a 162-game major league season, stats can predict general outcomes. In a short series of a few games, “the playoffs are a crapshoot.”
Side note: A’s general manager Billy Beane, who was and is the decision-maker based on his staff’s detailed analysis, was a member of the Twins ‘87 championship team as well as the A’s ‘89 World Series winners.
Next up: Three Nights in August
Moneyball: this is about 10 years old but I just found it. Didn’t know there was a book (by Michael Lewis), just a movie.
The subject, of course, is about the Oakland A’s achieving success with a low payroll by emphasizing lesser valued stats such as on-base percentage and slugging percentage in evaluating players. That and specifically looking for under-valued players while getting rid of high-priced ones that aren’t proportionately better at getting on base and avoiding outs.
Some examples:
Saves – a slightly above average pitcher can come in for the ninth with bases empty and succeed most of the time. Once established as a “closer,” he’s worth millions. Then it pays to sell/trade him for something of value, and develop another one.
Given the minimum salary requirements and assuming at least 49 victories by even the worst of major league clubs, how much money is spent on each victory above that threshold? Doug Pappas calculated in the three years prior to the book, the A’s paid only about $500,000 per win while teams like Baltimore and Texas paid nearly $3 million for each victory. Not surprising, the only other team in six figures was the Twins at about $675,000 per win.
Voros McCracken took on pitchers’ worth by looking at what pitchers can control: preventing home runs, preventing walks, and preventing balls in play by striking out batters. Once the ball is hit, he proved, there is quite little the pitcher can do about it – measured over a long period, the stats bear out that there’s lot of luck involved (the scorching line drive right at the shortshop vs. the broken bat bloop that falls just inside the foul line). Sort of puts a damper on the Twins’ pitch-to-contact approach.
AVM Systems also dove into the aspect of measuring luck and players’ actual performance in each event on the field. Example: bloop to left field with known-to-be-slow left fielder with runner on second and two out. Knowing the fielder is slow, the runner takes off and scores. The record shows the batter succeeded, the pitcher failed, and the runner and left fielder were present. More fairly, the pitcher (who made a great pitch) and runner (who used the situation to score) succeeded while the batter (should-have-been-an-out hit) and the left fielder (didn’t get to the ball) failed.
Over the length of a 162-game major league season, stats can predict general outcomes. In a short series of a few games, “the playoffs are a crapshoot.”
Side note: A’s general manager Billy Beane, who was and is the decision-maker based on his staff’s detailed analysis, was a member of the Twins ‘87 championship team as well as the A’s ‘89 World Series winners.
Next up: Three Nights in August
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Sports: Vikings choke, as predicted
Was passing by a TV Sunday about 2:45 so decided to see how the purple heroes were doing. There were about 6 minutes left, Vikings had a 3-point lead and the ball at Chicago’s 30.
So I called my son: “Want to see the Vikings blow it?” I proceeded to describe to him how the Vikings would get a field goal and then the Bears would score a touchdown to win 31-30.
We settled in to watch and it unfolded exactly like I had predicted, like if we watching a recording I’d seen before instead of a live game.
“Why do you think they’ll lose?” he asked. “Because they’re the Vikings. I’ve been watching them long enough, and three out of four times in this situation, they’ll lose.”
As the Bears knelt down to run out the final seconds, he didn’t really acknowledge my prognosticating. I was satisfied anyway, not so much at having been right, but more so at not having wasted three hours to get to that point.
So I called my son: “Want to see the Vikings blow it?” I proceeded to describe to him how the Vikings would get a field goal and then the Bears would score a touchdown to win 31-30.
We settled in to watch and it unfolded exactly like I had predicted, like if we watching a recording I’d seen before instead of a live game.
“Why do you think they’ll lose?” he asked. “Because they’re the Vikings. I’ve been watching them long enough, and three out of four times in this situation, they’ll lose.”
As the Bears knelt down to run out the final seconds, he didn’t really acknowledge my prognosticating. I was satisfied anyway, not so much at having been right, but more so at not having wasted three hours to get to that point.
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Running: Bear Water Run results (part 2)
I only ran BWR twice, so I started digging back to get a better feel for the event. Was disappointed to see declining participation, from over 900 runners in 2009 to 650 this year. Hopefully, the White Bear Lions find it worthwhile to keep going, as it is a very well-run event.
Congratulations to Jerry Kozitza who placed 434th out of 436 in the 20-mile, but was first (and only) in his age group of 70-plus. If I have to be alive yet at age 70, I hope I can at least run a 5k.
In the 10-mile, the over 70 crowd is a competitive group. I would have been 4th out of 6 this year and 8th out of 9 in their age group, so I’ll stick to mine.
Otherwise, thanks for the light blue t-shirt. I already have too many lime green ones.
Now it’s on to the Medtronic Twin Cities 10-Mile. More on that another time.
Congratulations to Jerry Kozitza who placed 434th out of 436 in the 20-mile, but was first (and only) in his age group of 70-plus. If I have to be alive yet at age 70, I hope I can at least run a 5k.
In the 10-mile, the over 70 crowd is a competitive group. I would have been 4th out of 6 this year and 8th out of 9 in their age group, so I’ll stick to mine.
Otherwise, thanks for the light blue t-shirt. I already have too many lime green ones.
Now it’s on to the Medtronic Twin Cities 10-Mile. More on that another time.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Running: Bear Water Run, White Bear Lake MN
I got up at 4:30 on a Saturday morning, drove an hour and a half, and ran 10 miles around a lake on the other side of the cities. And if the registration fee hadn’t been covered by a birthday gift, I would have paid $40 to do it. (And risk it being 35 degrees and sleeting.) Some people might think that’s crazy.
Turned out to be beautiful running weather. It’s a nice jaunt around White Bear Lake through primarily residential areas. Some inclines but nothing serious. The race is well-organized, and it would be difficult not to go again next year in favor of a closer one.
WBL made the news this week because the lake level is going down; people are blaming the DNR. Ten miles wasn't any shorter, though.
We did 37 seconds better than last year. Lots of great food at the end; seemed like I hadn’t eaten for days.
Best line of the day: After being passed by a woman with a baby in a stroller, the guy next to me said: “We just got passed by someone who’s asleep.”
Turned out to be beautiful running weather. It’s a nice jaunt around White Bear Lake through primarily residential areas. Some inclines but nothing serious. The race is well-organized, and it would be difficult not to go again next year in favor of a closer one.
WBL made the news this week because the lake level is going down; people are blaming the DNR. Ten miles wasn't any shorter, though.
We did 37 seconds better than last year. Lots of great food at the end; seemed like I hadn’t eaten for days.
Best line of the day: After being passed by a woman with a baby in a stroller, the guy next to me said: “We just got passed by someone who’s asleep.”
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Book review: So Much to Say: Dave Matthews Band
Full title is “So Much to Say: Dave Matthews Band 20 Years on the Road” by Nikki Van Noy.
We didn’t discover DMB until around 2007, so this book back to the beginning of the band in Charlottesville was a great history lesson. Interesting how in the early days taping of concerts was allowed – even encouraged – to spread the music to a wider fan base.
Especially enjoyed the Alpine Valley references since our first DMB concert was there. Just missed one of the special moments by 24 hours: the next day of the two-night stand, after the band closed with “Thank You” the crowd kept singing the song for a long time after the band left the stage (page 199).
We listened to all four of our DMB CDs on the drive there and thought we knew all music, only to find out at the concert the band had so many more songs we never heard before. The book explains how it all got going, so I pulled out all our collected albums to play again and better understand the references.
For me, DMB is an acquired taste since the type of music is hard to categorize. What I like best is that live shows are always a different setlist.
For even a casual fan of Dave Matthews Band, the book is a worthwhile read to either learn something you didn’t know or reminisce of past experiences.
We didn’t discover DMB until around 2007, so this book back to the beginning of the band in Charlottesville was a great history lesson. Interesting how in the early days taping of concerts was allowed – even encouraged – to spread the music to a wider fan base.
Especially enjoyed the Alpine Valley references since our first DMB concert was there. Just missed one of the special moments by 24 hours: the next day of the two-night stand, after the band closed with “Thank You” the crowd kept singing the song for a long time after the band left the stage (page 199).
We listened to all four of our DMB CDs on the drive there and thought we knew all music, only to find out at the concert the band had so many more songs we never heard before. The book explains how it all got going, so I pulled out all our collected albums to play again and better understand the references.
For me, DMB is an acquired taste since the type of music is hard to categorize. What I like best is that live shows are always a different setlist.
For even a casual fan of Dave Matthews Band, the book is a worthwhile read to either learn something you didn’t know or reminisce of past experiences.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Sports: Late for the Vikings bandwagon
Sorry, Vikings, I’ve bled too much purple. I can’t spend 3-plus hours on a Sunday anymore watching you and then being mad the rest of the day.
Sometimes, if I’m around, I’ll turn on the tv at 2:45 to see how you’re doing, and if it’s close, I’ll finish it out with you, mostly out of curiosity.
And if you’re 8-2, I’ll chum along on the bandwagon a bit and keep track of your results. But I’ve been hurt too much and too often to take it anymore.
Do we need a new stadium? Yes. Why? To keep the team here. Why? Because we want 45 millionaires paying Minnesota income tax; then hopefully the rest of us won’t have to pay as much.
Sometimes, if I’m around, I’ll turn on the tv at 2:45 to see how you’re doing, and if it’s close, I’ll finish it out with you, mostly out of curiosity.
And if you’re 8-2, I’ll chum along on the bandwagon a bit and keep track of your results. But I’ve been hurt too much and too often to take it anymore.
Do we need a new stadium? Yes. Why? To keep the team here. Why? Because we want 45 millionaires paying Minnesota income tax; then hopefully the rest of us won’t have to pay as much.
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Sports: Target (Out)Field
I’ve been to Target Field quite a few times but fortunate to have seats around the infield. This time, scored free tickets in auto dealer promotion which were in the “Home Run Porch View.” As expected, he definition of view is upper deck, left field.
Got there early enough to snag the free ear buds (thanks T-mobile) and used the time to wander around the park to places we’ve never seen before, a self-guided tour without getting in trouble.
The outfield view at TF is amazingly good, other than that you can’t see the outfielder below you if he gets close to the wall.
This we’d discovered before, but made another visit: there’s a small area behind center field where you can get a nice close look into the bullpens. It has a real zoo-like quality about it as you watch the caged subjects in their native habitat.
Oh, yeah, there was a game, sort of. Toronto scored 5 in the top of the first, and when the Twins left bases loaded a couple times that could have at least made it interesting, it wasn’t.
This is rookie time. There’s a youthful photo in the Legends Club of Hrbek, Puckett, Brunansky, Gaetti, and one other player when they were first called up to the big leagues. Hope we can look back on this starting lineup with Presley, Mastroianni, Arcia, Colabello, Pinto, and Florimon someday after they’ve won a couple championships.
Got there early enough to snag the free ear buds (thanks T-mobile) and used the time to wander around the park to places we’ve never seen before, a self-guided tour without getting in trouble.
The outfield view at TF is amazingly good, other than that you can’t see the outfielder below you if he gets close to the wall.
This we’d discovered before, but made another visit: there’s a small area behind center field where you can get a nice close look into the bullpens. It has a real zoo-like quality about it as you watch the caged subjects in their native habitat.
Oh, yeah, there was a game, sort of. Toronto scored 5 in the top of the first, and when the Twins left bases loaded a couple times that could have at least made it interesting, it wasn’t.
This is rookie time. There’s a youthful photo in the Legends Club of Hrbek, Puckett, Brunansky, Gaetti, and one other player when they were first called up to the big leagues. Hope we can look back on this starting lineup with Presley, Mastroianni, Arcia, Colabello, Pinto, and Florimon someday after they’ve won a couple championships.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Running: one week to Bear Water Run
Last year, our focal point of training was the BWR 10-mile.
This year we completed the Wright County Half Marathon and managed to get into the Twin Cities 10 on Marathon weekend, but a return to BWR is too good to pass up. Well, either that or another half, but 10 miles is shorter. More on the TC 10 another time, which was my original wild hair.
Ran 9.5 miles this morning as the last “long" training run before Bear Water. Like last year, I plan to practice waiting on the last couple days – stand around for 20 minutes before beginning to run, which is what happens at real races.
Running teaches patience: when you want it to be over, all you can do is just keep putting one foot in front of the other again and again and . . . eventually – eventually – it is over. A lesson for life.
This year we completed the Wright County Half Marathon and managed to get into the Twin Cities 10 on Marathon weekend, but a return to BWR is too good to pass up. Well, either that or another half, but 10 miles is shorter. More on the TC 10 another time, which was my original wild hair.
Ran 9.5 miles this morning as the last “long" training run before Bear Water. Like last year, I plan to practice waiting on the last couple days – stand around for 20 minutes before beginning to run, which is what happens at real races.
Running teaches patience: when you want it to be over, all you can do is just keep putting one foot in front of the other again and again and . . . eventually – eventually – it is over. A lesson for life.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Prediction: Mauer won't return this season
Having had a family member with a concussion, following Joe Mauer's recovery is easier to judge.
About 10 days after the injury, Mauer reportedly wore a cap to a press conference due to sensitivity to the camera lights.(http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/221690821.html)
Our experience says if he's having any sensitivity to lights, or sounds, Mauer or no human being is even close to ready to stand in against 90-mph fastballs. No doctor would clear him to play, and the Twins can't risk aggravating the injury in their biggest investment any further when so little is at stake anymore this season.
About 10 days after the injury, Mauer reportedly wore a cap to a press conference due to sensitivity to the camera lights.(http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/221690821.html)
Our experience says if he's having any sensitivity to lights, or sounds, Mauer or no human being is even close to ready to stand in against 90-mph fastballs. No doctor would clear him to play, and the Twins can't risk aggravating the injury in their biggest investment any further when so little is at stake anymore this season.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Hotel review: Americinn, Winona MN
It was what you’d want from a normal hotel stay. Room clean, air conditioner actually cooled the room to desired temperature, no glitches with anything. Mattress may have sloped a bit into center, but otherwise was comfortable. Hot tub was moderate hot, not the kind where you boil yourself ala lobster.
Breakfast was a good spread – large bagels, fresh muffins, a waffle maker, quick-fix french toast and eggs, cereal, oranges, yogurt. Plenty of choices, not just a platter of rolls. Open 6-10 am.
Lots of bikers and fishermen in for the holiday weekend.
Travel: Winona MN
Two ways to get to Winona from Twin Cities: buzz 52 to just past Rochester and take a left, or go to Hastings and follow the river for the scenic drive. Hwy 52 is several miles longer, but overall faster because you can go freeway speed, even 70 mph on the I-90 stretch. Couple minor road work areas at present, but no detours or delays.
Ran 5 miles around Winona Lake, two minutes faster than last year. Most of the north and west sides have a nice, fresh topcoat of tar – as smooth as tar ever gets. Quite a few people out for a early holiday morning.
Checked out Airport Lake at the west end. Got one sunny in a fairly short period. For the adverturesome, Airport Lake has a couple of swinging ropes where you can climb a tree and then Tarzan yourself into the lake (at least the college kids do that).
Ran 5 miles around Winona Lake, two minutes faster than last year. Most of the north and west sides have a nice, fresh topcoat of tar – as smooth as tar ever gets. Quite a few people out for a early holiday morning.
Checked out Airport Lake at the west end. Got one sunny in a fairly short period. For the adverturesome, Airport Lake has a couple of swinging ropes where you can climb a tree and then Tarzan yourself into the lake (at least the college kids do that).
Restaurant review: Perkins, Winona MN
Scheduling error: not enough kitchen help for a holiday (Labor Day) lunch period. Turned a regular lunch into a 1 1/2-hour-plus event. Fortunately, we weren’t in a hurry and got in good visiting time.
The host managed to keep a smile with a constant lobby full of waiting customers, some of whom gave up, and the frantic waitresses did their best.
Otherwise, once the food arrived, a combination of breakfast and lunch items, it was up to Perkins’ usual good standards.
By the way, the attached Quality Inn is closed and appears pretty run down. Doesn't scare away the Perkins crowd at least. The hotel is for sale if anyone wants to take on a project
The host managed to keep a smile with a constant lobby full of waiting customers, some of whom gave up, and the frantic waitresses did their best.
Otherwise, once the food arrived, a combination of breakfast and lunch items, it was up to Perkins’ usual good standards.
By the way, the attached Quality Inn is closed and appears pretty run down. Doesn't scare away the Perkins crowd at least. The hotel is for sale if anyone wants to take on a project
Restaurant review: Chipotle, Chanhassen MN
Round of burritos for everyone, all different combinations. This is becoming a family favorite, although we’re still trying to get better at ordering.
Like other custom, fast-served items (Subway), it’s a bit pricey at almost $30 for four items without any extras.
Hardest thing to get straight: it’s chi-poat-lay, not chi-pole-tay.
Like other custom, fast-served items (Subway), it’s a bit pricey at almost $30 for four items without any extras.
Hardest thing to get straight: it’s chi-poat-lay, not chi-pole-tay.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Event: Minnesota Renaissance Festival
8/31/13 -- After many trips to the Renaissance Festival, it’s challenging to find new experiences. Still worth a try.
Mermaid Cove was what you’d expect – girls with rubber fish bottoms. Fairy Wing Forest was a nice walk in the woods, but diminished by the herd of sheeple – can’t help it for an event like that. Hardest thing about belly dancing: keeping your head perfectly still while moving the rest of your body.
Line of the day:
Snot: "I stand corrected." Puke: "In your orthopedic boots."
Went through the food:
• Turkey legs - can’t make them this good at home with what we get from the supermarket.
• Fruit smoothie - a bit small serving for the price but rich and flavorful, and you do get both a straw and spoon with it.
• Florentine ice - Flavored ice frozen on a frozen half orange. A bit difficult to bite into, but worth going back for more.
From the beer stand, get the “Half and Half,” aka “Dark and Tan”: a mix of Harp lager and Guiness.
And on the way out, make sure to pick up a bag of scrumptious kettle corn for ride home; see if you have any left when you get there.
Mermaid Cove was what you’d expect – girls with rubber fish bottoms. Fairy Wing Forest was a nice walk in the woods, but diminished by the herd of sheeple – can’t help it for an event like that. Hardest thing about belly dancing: keeping your head perfectly still while moving the rest of your body.
Line of the day:
Snot: "I stand corrected." Puke: "In your orthopedic boots."
Went through the food:
• Turkey legs - can’t make them this good at home with what we get from the supermarket.
• Fruit smoothie - a bit small serving for the price but rich and flavorful, and you do get both a straw and spoon with it.
• Florentine ice - Flavored ice frozen on a frozen half orange. A bit difficult to bite into, but worth going back for more.
From the beer stand, get the “Half and Half,” aka “Dark and Tan”: a mix of Harp lager and Guiness.
And on the way out, make sure to pick up a bag of scrumptious kettle corn for ride home; see if you have any left when you get there.
Restaurant review: Papa Murphy's s'mores
Maybe it’s a bit of stretch to call PM’s a “restaurant,” but it’s equal or better quality than the average pizza restaurant.
Papa’s All Meat is a nice thick layer of delicious tastes. For sides, sold as two for $6, the cheesy bread was a bit greasy, but the s’mores pizza was a great dessert taste. The s’mores includes chocolate and marshmallows with sauce on a pizza crust. Could have had a just a bit less chocolate for my part, but it’s better than the original campfire namesake.
Papa’s All Meat is a nice thick layer of delicious tastes. For sides, sold as two for $6, the cheesy bread was a bit greasy, but the s’mores pizza was a great dessert taste. The s’mores includes chocolate and marshmallows with sauce on a pizza crust. Could have had a just a bit less chocolate for my part, but it’s better than the original campfire namesake.
Friday, August 30, 2013
Travel: headed to Winona
It's time for what has become our annual Labor Day trip to Winona, MN to meet our son for his birthday. Two more times (he's a student at Winona State).
It appears the Quality Inn, where we stayed the last two years, has closed, at least temporarily due to bankruptcy. It got some awful reviews online, but we found it acceptable because of its low rate, not to mention the coupon for Perkins.
So this year it's the Americinn. Super 8 had the best price. Americinn has a pool. Review to come after the trip.
It appears the Quality Inn, where we stayed the last two years, has closed, at least temporarily due to bankruptcy. It got some awful reviews online, but we found it acceptable because of its low rate, not to mention the coupon for Perkins.
So this year it's the Americinn. Super 8 had the best price. Americinn has a pool. Review to come after the trip.
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