tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87528809776275268452024-03-12T19:45:57.023-07:00Land of Kentavo - The Grand Strand's Entertainment AuthorityPop culture, sports, Grand Strand musings, and whatever the hell else is on my mind.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-89305917077519872412010-02-04T20:23:00.000-08:002010-02-04T20:23:09.824-08:00Townshend Follow-UpOK, found this AP video from today's Super Bowl press conference where Pete defends himself.<br />
<br />
Check it out:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://video.ap.org/?f=AP&pid=iFv0IkH1SZqj6Ojgj_Tx4uKAvO0N2cLA">http://video.ap.org/?f=AP&pid=iFv0IkH1SZqj6Ojgj_Tx4uKAvO0N2cLA</a>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-53553816684810181452010-02-04T07:25:00.000-08:002010-02-04T07:25:25.124-08:00WHO DAT? LET TOWNSHEND PLAYAnyone who knows me knows that I’m a huge fan of The Who and the band’s primary songwriter/guitarist Pete Townshend.<br />
<br />
<br />
So yes, I know that The Who and Townshend are performing the Super Bowl’s halftime show on Sunday.<br />
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And yes, I also know that two – count them, two – supposed child advocacy groups in South Florida, where the big game is being hosted, are making a stink over Townshend’s 2003 arrest for suspicion of possessing indecent images of children. They did the same thing, but with less media coverage, when the Who was selected for the Kennedy Center Honors in 2008. This time it's getting more traction because the Super Bowl is a much bigger event than the Kennedy Center Honors, and you've got the specialized sports media covering it along with entertianment media.<br />
<br />
First off, I have a two-year-old daughter, so do you think I would go around sporting Who T-shirts if I thought Townshend was a pedophile?<br />
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And do you think the NFL and CBS would have hired The Who if they believed this as well?<br />
<br />
Obviously, I can never really know what went on with Townshend’s case, but there are several known, established facts that can be examined to draw conclusions.<br />
<br />
An examination of the facts:<br />
<br />
<strong>Was he on the U.K.’s sex offender registry as the South Florida protesters claim? </strong><br />
Yes, by admitting that he’d used a credit card once to access a site that advertised child pornography images, he was given a caution and placed on the sex registry for five years (2003-2008).<br />
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<br />
<strong>Did police find any child sex/abuse images on his computers or in his personal property?</strong><br />
No. Police seized 14 computers from Townshend’s collection at his home and office and found nothing. Here is a statement from Scotland Yard, which conducted the investigation: "After four months of investigation by officers from Scotland Yard's child protection group, it was established that Mr Townshend was not in possession of any downloaded child abuse images. He has fully co-operated with the investigation."<br />
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<strong>Was he convicted of any crime?</strong><br />
No.<br />
<br />
<strong>Did he break the law?</strong><br />
Apparently so, as looking at such illicit images is illegal in the U.K. whether accidental or intentional, hence the formal caution by police and the requirement of being placed on the U.K. sex offender registry. (More on this later.)<br />
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<br />
Let’s go a little deeper.<br />
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The main argument against Townshend, besides the sex offender registry, which has now expired but can’t be disputed because it is a cut-and-dried fact, is that cynical people don’t buy his claim that he was doing research for a campaign against child porn and Internet porn and abuse in general. Furthermore, Townshend claims that he was sexually abused as a child while in the care of his maternal grandmother (who had mental issues) and part of his research was for an autobiography he was writing. Where is the autobiography, detractors ask? He has secured an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for it, but it has yet to be published. In 2003, he said he’d been working on the autobiography for seven years. Townshend in recent years has been a notoriously slow worker (it took The Who 24 years to release a new album and he hasn't released a new solo album since 1993), and also notorious for announcing projects that never come to fruition. The list of failed Townshend/Who-related projects is nearly longer than the band’s actual discography.<br />
<br />
My guess is he is working on the autobiography but it became too voluminous and it’s been put aside as he wrote material for The Who’s 2006 album, ``Endless Wire,’’ the band toured internationally in 2004, 2006-2007 and some in 2008 and 2009, and as he worked on a new rock opera entitled ``Floss.”<br />
<br />
But back to the anti-Townshend camp: Detractors cite ``research’’ as a common excuse that pedophiles use to rationalize their habits. I can buy that it sounds like a flimsy defense, too. Yet, wouldn’t you think a pedophile would have amassed a collection of kiddie porn and police would have found something, anything? If he had a kiddie porn collection, it must have been the old-fashioned hard-copy kind that he kept locked away somewhere that authorities could not find.<br />
<br />
By comparison, look at the case of fellow U.K. rocker Gary Glitter. Glitter was arrested in 1997 when he took his laptop into a computer shop to be worked on and technicians discovered child pornography images on his hard drive. Authorities subsequently found that he had downloaded thousands of these images and he sentenced to four months in jail.<br />
<br />
OK, I’ll play Devil’s Advocate. Prior to Townshend’s arrest, his name was leaked to the British tabloids as being part of a child porn sting. In fact, he held a press conference a few days before being arrested to state that he is not a pedophile and to lay out his defense. Hearing that authorities were hot on his heels, could he have quickly erased his computers’ hard drives and wiped away all traces and evidence of child pornography? Or could he have just taken the offending machines and chunked them in the Thames or hired someone to take them away and destroy them?<br />
(I have asked a computer expert/IT geek about this and will update this blog once I get an answer.)<br />
<br />
<br />
Also, don’t you think someone would have come forward, ala Michael Jackson, and claimed that Townshend molested them, sent them dirty pictures, or fondled their children even if it was just an attempt to extort money? And what about Townshend’s own three offspring – don’t pedophiles often victimize their own brood? Why haven't they come forward with allegations?<br />
<br />
The reason I wrote this blog entry is because I’ve been infuriated by the lousy journalism by supposedly reputable media sources, including abc.com, cbs.com and aol.com covering this bubbling controversy leading up to the Super Bowl. The latest reports stem from two groups, Child Abuse Watch and Protect Our Children, peppering the area near Sun Life Stadium, where Sunday's game will be played, with postcards warning that Townshend is coming to the area.<br />
<br />
Check out this attempt to be snarky item from the Philadelphia Inquirer:<br />
<br />
"Who survivors Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend are facing a slew of protests over their plans to perform halftime at the Super Bowl Sunday. Protect Our Children has been throwing pamphlets all around Miami's Sun Life Stadium featuring a grinnin' Pete above the headline SEX OFFENDER AT LARGE. Another outfit, Child Abuse Watch, sent a letter to the NFL demanding Pete be sent packing. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said the Who will be destroying guitars and amps as scheduled, if Pete, 64, can still manage it." <br />
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The ``slew'' of protest are by the same two groups - Protect Our Children and Child Abuse Watch - and two men, Evin Daly and Kevin Gillick.<br />
<br />
And, for good measure, The Who hasn't destroyed stage gear and instruments as part of its regular act since the early '70s.<br />
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<br />
If the lack of fact-checking and blatant sensationalism wasn’t bad enough, it’s the idiotic user comments that got me really fired up, such as the ones calling him a convicted child pornographer. (We’ve already covered this ground; Townshend was convicted of nothing.)<br />
<br />
Here’s one that I responded to on Entertainment Weekly’s site:<br />
<br />
• Iolanthe <br />
<br />
Mon 01/04/10 11:51 PM<br />
<br />
<em>He is not a good man. He has a long history of trying to get close to children and “troubled teens’’ through charities. Classic pedo.</em><br />
<br />
My response: By that reasoning, then Who band-mate Roger Daltrey also fits the profile because he tries to get close to teens by raising mega-millions for the Teenage Cancer Trust, which builds care units for teenagers being treated for cancer.<br />
<br />
Then there are the anonymous posters claiming that Townshend’s admission of accessing the site containing child porn, but not downloading anything – was how he avoided being charged and jailed. OK, I can’t even follow the logic on that one - ``yes, your honor, I am guilty.’’ Judge: “OK, thanks for being honest. Here’s your get-out-of-jail-free card.”<br />
<br />
I must admit, this is a very weird case and it appears many facts are missing and obscured, and the timing of how it played out in the public eye is odd. Townshend hasn’t really addressed it, except talking about how difficult the ordeal was, and I swear I remember, but can’t find now, where he stated that as part of the official caution he received that he could not talk about the case.<br />
<br />
Fanhouse’s David Whitley wrote a blog dissecting this brouhaha – here’s the link: <a href="http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/12/29/who-are-you-to-ban-townshend-from-super-bowl/">http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/12/29/who-are-you-to-ban-townshend-from-super-bowl/</a><br />
- and he probably addresses it better than I am attempting to do here.<br />
<br />
But that credit card access bit does confound me; why on earth would a person as famous as Townshend use an easily traceable credit card on a child porn Web site?<br />
<br />
According to an investigative piece in PC Pro Magazine (that stands for Personal Computer not Political Correctness), Townshend appears to have confessed to something he did not do.<br />
<br />
Here is an excerpt from that investigation by journalist Duncan Campbell: <br />
<br />
"Police never had any evidence that the websites concerned...had anything to do with children.<br />
But the police didn’t tell Townshend that their entire evidence against him was a single entry made on Landslide on 15 May 1999 for the purchase of the Alberto website. Under pressure of the media filming of the raid, Townshend appears to have confessed to something he didn’t do."<br />
But he has admitted to seeing child pornography images online, at first by accident, and being terribly disturbed by what he saw. He’s never denied this, actually. And in January 2002, a full year before his arrest, he posted an essay on his Web site entitled ``A Different Bomb’’ that blasted child pornography. This essay, variously, has been used to support his innocence – and argue his guilt.<br />
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Here’s my interpretation of what happened: Having seen how easy it was to access disturbing images of child porn online, Townshend, in his rock star arrogance, decided to take the fight into his own hands. There is evidence that he reported his activity to the authorities and to the Internet Watch Foundation. Furthermore, having read and seen many interviews with him through the years, his memory of specific dates and instances is spotty – like on the Royal Albert Hall DVD from 2000 he claims that the song ``Relay’’ was released in 1974, when in fact it was released in 1972; and in a recent interview by Billboard, he says that the 2004 song “Real Good Looking Boy’’ featured The Who’s late bassist John Entwistle, when in fact Entwistle died in 2002, and Greg Lake was brought in to play on the session. So, I think, like the PC Pro piece asserts in its investigation, Townshend recalled looking at the illicit images but couldn’t pinpoint when, where, if he paid for it, etc. and the cops say, “we have your credit card info,’’ so he says, “OK, you got me.” That is simplistic, but I’m guessing it went something like that.<br />
<br />
For a brief timeline events and other resources related to this topic, check out the site <a href="http://www.petetownshendisinnocent.com/">http://www.petetownshendisinnocent.com/</a>.<br />
The conclusions you can draw from all of this:<br />
<br />
- Townshend was very stupid – and arrogant - to think he was above the law<br />
<br />
- If he’s a perv, he’s a very, very clever one and was able to construct a well-calculated back story to cover his tracks again and again; and he was also smart enough to erase all damning evidence on his computers and also convince everyone around him that he was not deviant<br />
<br />
- We’ll never know what really happened until authorities unlock their vaults and release more info about the case; Or until Townshend can reconstruct what happened and relay that to the public<br />
<br />
- The supposed child advocacy groups in South Florida have not been joined by any like-minded national or international groups in the effort to ban Pete Townshend from the Super Bowl<br />
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It’s all kind of scary, really, as I worried about the research I did for this blog entry and whether the powers-that-be monitoring my computer use would send up red flags for using the search terms ``Townshend Super Bowl’’ repeatedly as I sought to gather news, and some of the other online discussions I came across that I dared not click onto.<br />
<br />
So, unitl further facts and evidence come to light to blow my stance, I'll keep on riding ``The Magic Bus.''Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-24211746064717590452009-08-17T21:09:00.000-07:002009-08-17T21:25:51.635-07:00Most Underrated guitaristsI admittedly have not read every best-of guitarist list out there, but I've read quite a few.<br />And there's a few <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">axeslingers</span> I wonder why never get their due.<br />So, here is my Top 6 most-underrated guitar players of the rock era, but not in any order, just six of 'em worthy of some accolades.<br /><br />Martin Barre, Jethro Tull<br />David <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Gilmour</span>, Pink Floyd<br />Elliot <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Easton</span>, The Cars<br />Jack White, The White Stripes/The Raconteurs<br />Dean <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">DeLeo</span>, Stone Temple Pilots<br />Billy Joe Armstrong, Green DayKent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-38269061511387150152009-04-29T07:15:00.000-07:002009-04-29T07:46:12.290-07:00That Crazy DonkeyWith Cinco de Mayo rapidly approaching, I've had many questions about whether Burro Loco's annual outdoor shindig Burro Fest would be impacted by the City of Myrtle Beach's new ordinances designed to crack down on May's motorcycle rally mayhem.<div>In particular, will Burro Fest be shut down by the city's new law cracking down on impromptu tailgating?</div><div>If you've ever grooved with the masses in Burro Loco's parking lot on the fifth of May, you'd know that this is a legitimate question and concern for the Grand Strand partier.</div><div>So, I went straight to the donkey's, er, horse's mouth for some answers.</div><div>First and foremost, is Burro Loco, located at 960 Jason Blvd., actually in the city limits of Myrtle Beach?</div><div>The answer: yes.</div><div>OK, then, does Burro Loco need a special events permit, or anything else, to host Burro Fest, which is set for Tuesday (May 5), or will cops in riot gear raid the event and shut it down?</div><div>Here's what Mark Kruea, the city's public information officer had to say via e-mail.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=" ;font-family:'Calibri','sans-serif';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">"I haven’t seen the plans for the Burro Loco site, but a business can do what its zoning and business license allow,'' said Kruea. "Burro Loco is able, under its zoning, to do certain things. By virtue of being </span></span><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">a restaurant, it can do certain things. As long as what the business plans is within what it’s allowed to do for the zone that it’s in, and the business license that it holds, and the state licenses that it holds, then the business does not need a special event permit for the property. In this case, Burro Loco will need a zoning permit for tents and temporary uses, available from Construction Services, and will need to present a site plan, etc., to Construction Services. In short, what they propose cannot exceed what’s allowed, but they have some flexibility."</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> But what about the parking lot, which has been a sea of folks in recent years?</span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">"You’re thinking of the new parking lot rules and the media frenzy over the tailgating at BB&T Coastal Field," said Kruea. "As I tried to explain (but sometimes the media doesn’t want to hear), the Pelicans could have held a picnic and even some tailgating in their parking lot, had they been the ones to organize it. The problem was, they weren’t. The parking lot ordinance prohibits </span></span><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">“…impromptu, unmanaged outdoor events or parties… provided however that such events that are specifically permitted through legislative [Special Event Permit] or administrative action, or sponsored by the business license holder in compliance with regulations governing such outdoor events [temporary zoning permit] are not included.” </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">OK, I get it, Burro Loco can host Burro Fest because it's the restaurant/bar's event, but if a bunch of people just showed up, on say the fourth of May instead of the fifth, and began an impromptu party in the parking lot, then... </span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">"If the Pelicans or Burro Loco manage the event and meet zoning requirements and comply with regulations governing outdoor events (tents, etc.), then they can do certain things that do not exceed the requirements for the property or the business. To exceed the code or do something that is prohibited by zoning, a business or entity needs a Special Event Permit. All the media heard was “you can’t tailgate,” which was true in the case at the Pelicans stadium, where people held an “impromptu” event in the parking lot, but not true if the Pelicans themselves want to host a managed event on their own property in keeping with all city codes. The bottom line is that, no, you can’t do anything and everything, but you can do what’s allowed by law, with proper permission in advance. Of course, if you exceed what’s allowed, you’ll be in violation."</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">That damned media, why don't they listen?</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </span></o:p></span></p></div><div><br /></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-83469491689472710982009-04-23T14:54:00.000-07:002009-04-23T15:02:27.997-07:00A BLAST FROM THE PASTOK, digging through some old files I found this un-edited version of a story I did for Creative Loafing's ``Topside Loaf'' in either 2000 or 2001 - not sure as I couldn't find it on their archives.<div>Anyhow, it is one of my favorite stories of all time.</div><div><br /></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">'RASSLIN IN THE 'BURBS</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">By Kent Kimes</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Three muscular young men, a biracial pack known as the Reservoir Dogs, exchange heated insults, threats and obscenities with an older white woman, who responds by shooting back a double dose of her middle fingers.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">"Shut up you old turd," one young man yells at the elderly woman.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">"Suck my balls," said another.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">This isn't "The Jerry Springer Show," a race riot or a dysfunctional family reunion. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">It's All South Two-X-Treme Championship Wrestling, staged every Wednesday night in a 350-person capacity banquet room at US Play in Kennesaw, just off I-75.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">For $8, patrons are treated to a night of calculated violence, athleticism, drama, emotion and escapism as big men in colorful garb duke it out in the squared circle - up close and personal.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">The brainchild of US Play entertainment director Randy Riggs, a former wrestling promoter,<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>and professional wrestling veteran "Lover Boy" Lee Thomas, Two-X-Treme wrestling has bolstered the Dave & Buster's0-style establishment's entertainment offerings of billiards, video games, sports bar, on-site brewery, eateries and 24-lane bowling alley for the last three months. They tried a few Friday night shows but ultimately settled on Wednesdays. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Riggs said the show typically draws about 120 people, but on a Wednesday night in late May, the crowd numbered in the 60s, peppered with folks who seemed to know the grapplers personally, teenagers, adults, and several small children.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">The league is smalltime, but all the classic elements of the big-time have been appropriated: ringside announcers at philosophical odds with each other, wrestlers goading the audience, the clueless referee, blaring entry music, dazzling lights, merchandising, posing, boasting, prancing, good guys and bad guys, resepectively referred to as “Babyfaces” and “Heels.” </p> <p class="MsoNormal">And don't forget the ladies. Three sweet<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>young things clad in skimpy outfits, look barely old enough to drive, let alone use their feminine wiles to distract the wrestlers and referee to gain advantage for the warrior they escort to and from the ring.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">"They're legal," responded Riggs, when asked how old the young ring valets are.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Unless you've been under a rock lately, you're probably aware that professional wrestling has undergone a renaissance in the late `90s on into the new millennium. One of the highest rated cable television shows going is the World Wrestling Federation's Monday night "<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Raw is War"</i>two-hour program on the USA Network, which consistently scores around a 6.8 audience share as reported by the Neilson ratings. Ted Turner's Atlanta-based World Championship Wrestling's television programming also attracts large audience numbers. In addition, WWF superstars Mick Foley and the Rock have both had books on the N.Y. Times bestsellers list while wrestling action toys and merchandise are cash cows. The WWF is now publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Professional wrestling isn't just for the lowbrow, trailer trash audience anymore. It’s commonly referred to as “a male soap opera.”</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Although small, local, and regional outfits like Two-X-Treme are nothing new, Thomas and Riggs harbor big plans for the venture and hope to benefit from the trickle down effect of successful heavyweights WCW, WWF and Philadelphia-based Extreme Championship Wrestling. They claim Two-X-Treme has already become the second ranked independent circuit in the state, according to wrestling websites that track and rate the independents. “This is the future of wrestling right here,” said Two-X-Treme ringside announcer “The Authority” Dave Willis.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">The organizers hope to televise matches on a metro area cable system and have set up a phone hotline, 770-556-1540, so fans can keep track of match results. They are also seeking sponsors and want to do fundraisers and community events. “We want to take the organization to the next level,” said Thomas, a graduate of McEachern High School.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Some attribute pro wrestling's surging popularity to the fact that the major federations and their stars, led by the WWF, don't deny that the outcome of matches are fixed as they did in the past and are more open about their lives with the media.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>These days, pro wrestling doesn't try to bill itself as a pure competitive sport - it's now referred to as sports/entertainment. While the wrestlers perform intricate maneuvers and death-defying athletic stunts, providing entertainment for a paying audience is what it’s all about. It’s a ballet on steroids.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">But why come to US Play, when you can sit at home and watch the polished, big budget WCW <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Thunder</i> televised at the same time Wednesday nights on TBS?</p> <p class="MsoNormal">"It's the live action," said Stone Mountain resident Lamont Chavis, whose brothers Rainman (Darrell Chavis) and Homicide (Demetis Chavis) wrestle as part of Two-X-Treme's Reservoir Dogs. "It's more fun to be here than to watch it on TV. You get to yell and scream. Although it's fake, it's beautiful," he said.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Despite a general public awareness that the outcome of professional wrestling matches are<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>predetermined, the guys who get moonsaulted, powerbombed, piledrived, and chokeslammed still rankle at the word <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">FAKE</i>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Two-X-Treme star Rob Adonis, a 23-year-old driver's education teacher at Woodstock High School, and opposing grappler The Redneck Hero spill outside of the tiny ring at US Play and exchange blows. A member of the front row audience, who happens to be one of Adonis' students, tosses him a plastic restaurant tray lifted from McDonald's. The Redneck Hero kicks Adonis in the gut, and the tray drops to the floor. The Redneck Hero picks up the weapon, lines it up with Adonis' skull and gives him a whack. The tray splinters, sending shards into the crowd, eliciting a "pop", the loud burst of audience reaction all wrestlers crave like a drug.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">There is nothing fake about getting smacked over the head with a restaurant tray, said Adonis. "That hurt," he said."It's not fake. You do get hurt. There's not a Thursday I don't show up at school walking funny."</p> <p class="MsoNormal">But taking "bumps" - the wrestling term for willingly giving yourself up for a hard spill, smack or slam - is all part of entertaining the crowd. "Taking bumps on the floor hurts the most. But we want to give them their eight bucks' worth every time," said Adonis.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">But Two-X-Treme's wrestlers don't necessarily get their money's worth for putting their bodies through weekly punishment - at least not right now.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">They get paid between $75-$100 a night, according to Riggs. "There's not a lot of money involved, like the big boys (of WCW, ECW and WWF). But theses guys have fun and love doing it," he said.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">While all of the league's talent hold down day jobs, Riggs said, they also harbor dreams of hitting pro wrestling’s upper echelon. "Hell yeah," said the 270-pound Adonis, who has been a pro wrestling fan since he was four, idolizing legends like Dusty Rhodes, and now looks to inspiration from current WWF stars Triple H, the Rock, Chris Jericho and former Olympian turned pro Kurt Angle.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">They know the bright lights and big contracts are right here in metro Atlanta, at WCW.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">“I would love to sign with WCW or WWF, either one. It would just tickle me pink,”</p> <p class="MsoNormal">said the 34-year-old Thomas, a service worker for B and N Heating and Air who has had a taste of the big-time having wrestled in WCW events and the now-defunct NWA. With a "Stone Cold" Steve Austin-like rapid fire soliloquoy<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>in which he refers to himself in the third person several times, Thomas rattles off a list of some of the industry's bigger names he claims to have mixed up with in the ring. “I’ve wrestled Thunderbolt Patterson, the Godfather, the Undertaker, Tommy Rich……..the list goes on and on,” he said.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">He says a few unflattering things about WCW, whom he thought he was under contract, then takes them back, just in case.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Thomas' reluctance to go on the record about WCW underscores professional wrestling's reliance on image. As the saying goes "image is everything." The right name, theme music, gimmick, outfit, finishing move, microphone style, and concocted storyline about the wrestler's character can propel a career. For instance, Thomas doesn't want it known that he's married for fear of alienating Two-X-Treme's female fan-base. And Adonis, who was a cheerleader in high school, won't divulge his real last name. "Nobody knows what my real name is. My checks even say 'Adonis'," he said.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">It's this type of blurring of the lines between fantasy and reality that has brought professional wrestling under fire from some circles. Critics condemn the industry for promoting violence that spawns copy-cat behavior among children, for perpetuating stereotypes, and for containing excess profanity and gobs of sexual innuendo. However, Riggs said his wrestlers keep an eye on the makeup of the audience at US Play to determine the extreme extent of language and actions. But they have no control over what the audience might do or say. "The old ladies on the front row are the ones you have to watch out for," said Riggs.</p></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-12710352279067193242009-04-23T08:10:00.001-07:002009-04-23T09:09:59.741-07:00Battling Bands<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">FRIDAY! FRIDAY! FRIDAY!</span><div><br /></div><div>Hey folks, come and join me at Hard Rock Cafe (almost said Park, oops!) as I judge the second round of the Ambassador of Rock Battle of the Bands on Friday night.</div><div>This not your run-of-the mill contest offering gift certificates to your neighborhood pizza parlor, rather what’s at stake is a pretty big deal: a chance to perform at the Hard Rock Calling festival at <st1:city st="on">London</st1:city>’s <st1:place st="on">Hyde Park</st1:place> on June 27-28. </div><div><span style="font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-bidi-Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language: AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:12.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Friday's battling bands are</span></span><span style="font-family:Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-bidi-Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language: AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:12.0pt;color:#1F497D;"> </span><span style=" ;font-family:Calibri;font-size:12pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Audio Saints, Echo Code, Freedom Street Prison, Sideways Derby and Stealing Anger.</span></span><span style="font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-bidi-Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:11.0pt;color:#1F497D;"> </span>I'll be honest, I am only familiar with Sideways Derby, but at least I don't have any <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pre</span>-conceived notions of what the bands will sound like, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">right</span>?<br /></div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Octopus</span> Jones and Wonder Shakedown have already advanced to the May 1 finals, also at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">HRC</span>.</div><div>So come join us and help make one of these band's dreams one step closer to reality.</div><div>Here's the best part: there is no cover charge. </div><div>And it’s an all-ages show for all you kiddies out there.</div><div>The party gets started at 9 p.m.</div><div>Hard Rock <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Café</span> is at <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">1322 Celebrity Circle</st1:address></st1:street>, Broadway at the Beach, <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:place></st1:city>. Call 946-0007 or visit <a href="http://www.hardrock.com/">www.hardrock.com</a>.</div><div>If you show up, come by the judges' table and say "hi'' - I love to meet folks - and I love to get news tips on the local entertainment scene.</div><div><br /></div><div> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-64012518331736182232009-04-17T14:03:00.000-07:002009-04-17T14:10:30.128-07:00Hometown HottiesI was doing "research'' - I swear - and I came across a couple of lovely ladies in Maxim magazine's annual Hometown <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Hotties</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">contest</span> who claim to be from <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Myrtle</span> Beach.<div>Now, you know, I've got a history of letting folks know about it when local beauties are in these national contests.</div><div>So, it is your civic duty to go to www.maximonline.com and vote for Jade, who describes herself as a professional student, and Erica, who says she's a high school teacher.</div><div>Cue Van <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Halen's</span> ``Hot For Teacher'' anyone?</div><div><br /></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-40252774585545602092009-04-17T12:03:00.000-07:002009-04-17T12:08:35.533-07:00Super SaturdayLots of lots of stuff happening tomorrow (Saturday) along the Grand Strand:<div><br /></div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;color:black">SATURDAY<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;color:black"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent">Earth Day Music Fest & Expo 2009 is set for 11a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday at <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Grand</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> at The Market Common.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The music lineup features Sideways Derby, Hand Grenade, Riptide Taxi, Skitch, The Intangibles, and Ras Bonghi. There is no admission charge - and you can sneak over to Gordon Biersch for some on-site brewed brews.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Grand</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> is off <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Farrow Parkway</st1:address></st1:street>, adjacent to The Market Common on the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. For more, hit up <a href="http://www.wellnesscouncilcsc.org/">www.wellnesscouncilcsc.org</a> or call 995-3199.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> SATURDAY</o:p></p> <p class="default" style="text-align:justify">The Froggy Volleyball Tournament at Broadway at the Beach from 12 to 4 p.m. Saturday, an event that benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Association. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Register at Senor Frog’s at Broadway at the Beach - $50 per team, up to five persons per team. But you can also watch and support the event for free, at Broadway Commons, Broadway at the Beach, on the <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">21<sup>st</sup> Avenue North</st1:address></st1:street> side of the complex, between <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Robert M. Grissom Parkway</st1:address></st1:street> and U.S. 17 Bypass, <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:place></st1:city>. <span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Georgia;color:black">For more information, call at<span class="yshortcuts"> 424-0554</span>.</span><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Calibri;color:black"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">SATURDAY</p> <p class="MsoNormal">The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach hosts the 9<sup>th</sup> annual Doggie Bone Hunt at <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">McLean</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> starting at 1 p.m. Saturday.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A donation of $10 will register your pet in the bone hunt, and pre-registration is encouraged.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><st1:placename st="on">McLean</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype> is located at <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Oak Drive</st1:address></st1:street> and <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">2<sup>nd</sup> Ave. South</st1:address></st1:street> in <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place>. Call 249-4948 or visit <a href="http://www.humanesocietynmb.com/">www.humanesocietynmb.com</a>.<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> SATURDAY</o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The Rivertown Bluegrass Society hosts Ken Scoggins & Miller’s Creek and The Subject To Change Band on Saturday at <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Horry-Georgetown</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Technical</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">College</st1:placetype></st1:place>’s Burroughs and Chapin Auditorium as part of the society’s monthly concert series and open jam session.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> You</span> are encouraged to bring an acoustic instrument and participate in the jam sessions that run throughout the event, which starts at 5 p.m. Saturday.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Admission is $8 for Rivertown Bluegrass Society members and $10 for non-members.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Burroughs and Chapin Auditorium is on the campus of HGTC, 2050 <st1:place st="on"><st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region></st1:place> 501 East, Conway.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For more information, call 457-2854 or visit online at <a href="http://www.rivertownbluegrasssociety.com/" target="_blank">www.rivertownbluegrasssociety.com</a>.</o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal">SATURDAY</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> Country legend George ("The Possum'') Jones returns to The Alabama Theatre on Saturday night in support of his most recent release, a duet compilation, “Burn Your Playhouse Down,’’ featuring collaborations with Keith Richards, Shelby Lynn and Mark Knopfler, to name a few. Showtime is 7 p.m., with tickets ranging from $44.95 to $58.95. The Alabama Theatre is at Barefoot Landing, 4898 <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> 17 South, <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place>. Drop by <a href="http://www.alabama-theatre.com/">www.alabama-theatre.com</a> or call 272-1111 for more.</o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoBodyTextIndent"><br /></p></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-68000253745829218572009-04-17T07:00:00.000-07:002009-04-17T07:07:20.508-07:00U2 Carolina UpdateAn update on the previous post on U2's Carolina ambitions.<div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bono</span> and the boys are definitely coming to Raleigh, N.C.'s Carter-Finley Stadium on Oct. 3, and tickets go on sale today - so you'd better hurry.</div><div>Hate to give <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">TicketBastard</span> a plug, but unless you're in Raleigh or want to buy 'em off a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">scalper</span>, you gotta go to www.ticketmaster.com.</div><div>Tickets range from an affordable $30 to a don't-they-know-we're-in-a-recession $250.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-51306393348127598192009-04-17T06:57:00.000-07:002009-04-17T06:58:44.551-07:00Supersuckers updateHey, I've got the ticket info here for Supersuckers.<div><br /></div><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Georgia;mso-bidi-font-family:"Courier New"">You can get tickets at Spencer’z South, 5141 <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> 17 Bypass, Murrells Inlet, or Village Surf Shoppe, <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">500 Atlantic Ave.</st1:address></st1:street>, <st1:place st="on"><st1:placetype st="on">Garden</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on">City</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on">Beach</st1:placetype></st1:place>. The show, which also includes a buffet with your admission price, and performances by The Independents and whistlepunk, is a benefit for the Surfrider Foundation. Call </span><span style="font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Georgia;mso-bidi-font-family:Tahoma; color:black">333-2034 or visit</span><span style="font-family:Georgia"> <a href="http://surfridergrandstrand.org/">http://surfridergrandstrand.org</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Georgia;mso-bidi-font-family:"Courier New""><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-51018741804032012822009-04-02T13:14:00.000-07:002009-04-02T13:19:55.130-07:00A sucker for SupersuckersI've been hearing for months that punk/rockabilly (punkabilly?) outfit Supersuckers was coming back to the Grand Strand to play a gig, and this week it has been confirmed.<div>Supersuckers will rock your face on May 10 at Spencer'z South in Murrells Inlet in a benefit for the Surfrider Foundation.</div><div>Stay tuned for ticket info.</div><div>If you recall, the last time these guys played, it was a memorable outdoor show at The PIT (Pawleys Island Tavern) underneath the live oaks.</div><div>No word yet whether this show, which comes during the Spring Bike Rally, will be outside as well.</div><div><br /></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-7891464998785422072009-03-20T07:52:00.000-07:002009-03-20T07:58:06.230-07:00Original Song Lyrics (without audio)I chatted the other evening on Facebook with my first ever girlfriend (funny how Facebook can do this too you) and it reminded me of a nostalgic song I wrote at a time when it looked like I was going to be forced to move back into my parents' basement. I avoided that by finding a job in Georgetown, but that's another story entirely.<div><br /></div><div>So, I'm going to go with an experimental approach and post some original song lyrics here.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you like.</div><div><br /></div><div>"HOGAN ROAD"</div><div>(C) 2009 By Kent Kimes</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; "><div>At times it would be so silent</div><div>At the house with the funky door</div><div>But when the boys were racing</div><div>You could hear those engines roar</div><div><br /></div><div>I'd lay in bed for hours</div><div>Pretending to be asleep</div><div>The world kept passing by me</div><div>Right down our little street</div><div><br /></div><div>Hogan Road</div><div>Where did those memories go?</div><div>The circle brings me back</div><div>To Hogan Road</div><div>Hogan Road</div><div>Is paved with love and sadness</div><div>Couldn't wait to leave</div><div>But now I'm going home</div><div><br /></div><div>Caught the bus on the corner</div><div>Before the sun came up</div><div>Fighting in the church yard</div><div>You know I had some decent luck</div><div><br /></div><div>Got my first kiss on the playground</div><div>A couple of blocks from home</div><div>We snuck down by the creek side</div><div>And she slipped me a little tongue </div><div><br /></div><div>Hogan Road</div><div>Where did those memories go?</div><div>The circle brings me back</div><div>To Hogan Road</div><div>Hogan Road</div><div>Is paved with love and sadness</div><div>Couldn't wait to leave</div><div>But now I'm going home</div><div><br /></div>(BRIDGE) <div>Tales of a misspent </div><div>And wasted youth?</div><div>No, that ain't </div><div>half the truth</div><div>No guns and mobsters</div><div>No stabbin' steely swords</div><div>The simple fact remained</div><div>I was completely bored</div><div><br /></div><div>On Hogan Road...</div><div><br /></div></span></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-51899845946499276132009-03-12T12:27:00.000-07:002009-03-12T12:44:20.120-07:00No Carolina Line on U2's Horizon?Just got an email from U2's Web site about the band's upcoming 360(degrees) Tour and can't wait to see how close they'll come to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">li'l</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ol</span>' Myrtle Beach.<div>And the answer is...</div><div>There are only four North American dates announced so far, and this thing looks to only be hitting massive stadiums: Soldier Field in Chicago on Sept. 12, Rogers Centre in Toronto on Sept. 16, Gillette Stadium outside of Boston on Sept. 20 and Giants Stadium in the swamps of Jersey on Sept. 24.</div><div>Ticket on-sale info isn't available yet.</div><div>You have to figure more North American shows will be announced, too.</div><div>So what's our best bet?<br /></div><div>Williams-Bryce Stadium in Columbia?</div><div>Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, N.C. (Just saw a rumor that says the tour will come to this venue on Oct. 3.)</div><div>Death Valley in Clemson?</div><div>Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C.?</div><div>Brooks Stadium in Conway?</div><div>BB&T Coastal Field in Myrtle Beach?</div><div>Carolina Entertainment Complex in Marion?</div><div>Myrtle Beach Speedway?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-28353457766140597532009-03-12T09:08:00.000-07:002009-03-12T09:16:10.084-07:00Grand Strand's Best Bests for March 13-18<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"">FRIDAY<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia; "><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"">While Mudvayne’s metallic sound and devilish stage costuming has smoothed out a bit (as evidenced by the chart-climbing single ``Do What You Do’’) since its breakthrough song/video ``Dig,’’ Friday night’s gig at the House of Blues is sure to be a bone-crunching affair no less. Nonpoint and In This Moment are also on the <st1:personname st="on">bill</st1:personname>. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.; music starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $24-$63. </span>House of Blues is at 4640 <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> 17 South, Barefoot Landing in <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Call 272-3000 or visit <a href="http://www.hob.com/">www.hob.com</a></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman""><o:p>SATURDAY</o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><st1:city st="on"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"">St.</span></st1:city><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman""> Paddy’s Day isn’t until Tuesday, but that hasn’t stopped the forward-thinking folks in <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place> from partying hearty a wee bit early as the northside burgh’s annual Celtic-themed bash is set for Saturday. The 21<sup>st</sup> annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival kicks off 9 a.m. Saturday with a parade down <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Main Street</st1:address></st1:street> in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:place></st1:city>, followed by the street festival featuring food, drink, arts and crafts, a play area for lads ‘n’ lasses, and live music on two stages. The shindig lasts until 4 p.m. The best part: admission is free.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia; "><st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"">Main Street</span></st1:address></st1:street><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman""> is off of U.S. 17 N., <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place>. For more information, call 280-5570 or visit <a href="http://www.stpatnmb.com/">www.StPatNMB.com</a>.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"">SATURDAY<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"">Local slasher flick production company Kluckin Films hosts the March Madness Movie and Music Festival on Saturday at Crazy J’s in downtown <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:place></st1:city>. On the docket are screenings of Kluckin’s flicks “Kill Syndrome’’ and “The Bleeding (Day of the Leakers)” along with performances by The Majora and Awake in Khaos.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia; "><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"">The throw-down is from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday. There’s a $2 cover charge, plus a donation of a non-perishable food item, which will be given to Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach. Crazy J’s is at <st1:address st="on"><st1:street st="on">819 Main Street</st1:street>, <st1:city st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:city></st1:address> (in that triangular-shaped building where <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Main Street</st1:address></st1:street> splits off from U.S. 501). For more information, call </span><span lang="EN" style="font-size:10.0pt;mso-ansi-language: EN">461-5550 or visit (if you dare) wwww.kluckinfilms.com. There's an anti-crack public service announcement on the site that is a must-see.</span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; ">SUNDAY</span><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"">How long can he go on? The Redheaded Stranger rides again, as iconic <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Americana</st1:place></st1:city> artist Willie Nelson returns to the House of Blues for a gig Sunday night, with up-and-comer Jamey Johnson also on the <st1:personname st="on">bill</st1:personname>. Doors open at 7 p.m.; the show starts at 8. Tickets are $40.50-$96. </span>House of Blues is at 4640 <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> 17 South, Barefoot Landing in <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Call 272-3000 or visit <a href="http://www.hob.com/">www.hob.com.</a></p><p class="MsoNormal">Despite Nelson's penchant for lighting up the wacky tobaccy, Sunday's show is non-smoking event inside the venue.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">MONDAY</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Why is everybody saying eh, eh? The Grand Strand rolls out the red carpet to our visitors from north of the border for the Canadian-American Days Kickoff Celebration Expo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Convention Center</st1:placetype></st1:place>. The festival will include performances by Nickelback, Rush, Alanis Morissette and Anne Murray. OK, we’re kidding about that last part, but Monday’s kickoff event includes exhibitors giving out free stuff, live performances and food and beverages. And admission is free. <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Convention Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> is at <st1:address st="on"><st1:street st="on">2101 N. Oak Street</st1:street>, <st1:city st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:city></st1:address>. <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:#181818">Call 626-7444</span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman""> or</span> visit www.canamdays.com.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">MONDAY</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Rapper Flo-Rida is riding high again with the popular iTunes download “Right Round’’ based on the late `80s Dead or Alive track ``You Spin Me Right Round (Like a Record)” and brings his skills to Club Kryptonite for a performance on Monday.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Doors open at 10 p.m. Tickets are $20.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Club Kryptonite is at <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">2925 Hollywood Drive</st1:address></st1:street>, off U.S. 17 Bypass in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:place></st1:city> next to Planet Hollywood. Call 839-9200 or visit <a href="http://www.club-kryptonite.com/">www.club-kryptonite.com</a>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">TUESDAY</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Tuesday is officially St. Patrick’s Day, a time for everyone to don the green and proclaim to be Irish - and call in sick on Wednesday. Every bar in town will be Irish, so just pick one - and make sure you have a designated driver.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-24593609613849180962009-03-05T07:22:00.000-08:002009-03-05T07:27:43.780-08:00Why Banks Suck, Part XVIWhy are these people getting bailouts?<div>Yesterday, I learned from my tax preparer that if we wanted to receive our refunds via electronic deposit rather than paper check, that the bank would charge $30 per transaction - that's a total of $60, because of state and federal returns.</div><div>Say what?</div><div>So, I quickly got on the horn and called my family's main financial institution - which so happens, thankfully, to be a credit union and not a corporate money-skimming bank.</div><div>The nice lady at the credit union kind of laughed and assured me that there would be no charge for having my tax returns deposited electronically.</div><div>To which I replied, ``that's why I belong to the credit union.''</div><div>Unfortunately, I also have a couple of accounts with some McBanks that I'm going to finally withdraw and close.</div><div>Bail that!</div><div><br /></div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-91146069666378449922009-03-04T12:13:00.000-08:002009-03-04T12:16:42.397-08:00Best Bets for the coming Week<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">FRIDAY</span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Off-kilter pop crooner Morrissey is back, and with a new album no less, “Years of Refusal’’ which dropped in February, and a return engagement Friday at the House of Blues. Doors open at 7 p.m. Friday. Tickets are $29.50-$74. House of Blues is at 4640 <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> 17 South, Barefoot Landing in <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Call 272-3000 or visit <a href="http://www.hob.com/">www.hob.com</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">SATURDAY</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Are you ready for some baseball? The Myrtle Beach Pelicans hope so as the advanced Class A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves host Fan Fest on Saturday at BB&T Coastal Field, featuring behind-the-scenes guided tours of the stadium, a scavenger hunt, and a chance for kids (and wannabe ballplayers) to play catch out on the field. And all you hams out there, the Pelicans organization will also hold tryouts for national anthem singers and P.A. announcers so get your pipes warmed up. Fan Fest is free. But what would a baseball stadium sans a baseball game be without hot dogs and other concessions? They’ll be on sale Saturday for $1. Gates open at 10 a.m. Saturday and event will go until about 2 p.m. <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color:black">BB&T Coastal Field is at <st1:address st="on"><st1:street st="on">1251 21<sup>st</sup><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Avenue N.</st1:street>, <st1:city st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:city></st1:address>, at the intersection with <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">Robert Grissom Parkway</st1:address></st1:street>. </span></span>Call 918-6000 or visit <a href="http://www.myrtlebeachpelicans.com/">www.myrtlebeachpelicans.com</a>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">SATURDAY</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Find out who takes home the title of Miss Myrtle Beach when the official preliminary for the Miss South Carolina and Miss <st1:country-region st="on">America</st1:country-region> pageants invades <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Coastal</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Carolina</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">University</st1:placetype></st1:place>’s Wheelwright Auditorium on Saturday. The pomp and pageantry starts at 6 p.m. Admission is $25 (which will also get you into the Miss Myrtle Beach Teen pageant from 2-5 p.m.). Wheelwright Auditorium is on CCU’s <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Conway</st1:place></st1:city> campus, between U.S. 501 and S.C. 544.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Call 446-6019.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">SATURDAY</span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Put your hands in the airrrrr, and wave ‘em like you just don’t carrrrre.That’s right, yo, another edition of the hip-hop flavored local showcase, Myrtle Beach Rocks – The Mic, is on tap for Saturday night at the House of Blues. Featured acts include L.I.D. Boys, Jim Snooka a.k.a. Dirty Dickens, 843 Boys, Turpentine and Neff and The Masterminds. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are a recession-friendly $5 each. House of Blues is at 4640 <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> 17 South, Barefoot Landing in <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Call 272-3000 or visit <a href="http://www.hob.com/">www.hob.com</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> TUESDAY</span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Tuesday is 3-in-1 Day at <st1:placename st="on">Huntington Beach</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">State Park</st1:placetype>’s <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Atalaya</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Castle</st1:placetype></st1:place> – but get your mind out of the gutter. The event is a three-way celebration of the park’s namesakes’ birthdays and wedding anniversary (Archer Huntington and his wife Anna Hyatt Huntington were both born on March 10 and that’s the same day they were wed, too), and a mini-arts festival of sorts from 2-4 p.m. Tuesday. The shindig will feature local artists displaying their wares, tours of the Moorish-style castle, a live painting-in-progress by local artist Danny McLaughlin, and a cake and champagne toast. Regular park admission is waved for 3-in-1 Day participants, but there’s a $10 charge per person for the festivities, which benefit Friends of Huntington Beach State Park. Space is limited, so you must make reservations. For reservations, call 237-2162. <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Huntington Beach</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">State Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> is at <st1:street st="on"><st1:address st="on">16148 Ocean Highway</st1:address></st1:street> (U.S. 17), just south of Murrells Inlet. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">TUESDAY</span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Indie rock darlings Modest Mouse (“Float On,’’ “Dashboard’’ and “Missed the Boat’’), which will Morrissey’s former Smiths band-mate Johnny Marr on guitar, also returns the House of Blues for a gig Tuesday night. Japanese Motors and Mimicking Birds are also on the bill. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30-$32. House of Blues is at 4640 <st1:country-region st="on">U.S.</st1:country-region> 17 South, Barefoot Landing in <st1:place st="on">North Myrtle Beach</st1:place>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Call 272-3000 or visit <a href="http://www.hob.com/">www.hob.com</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">WEDNESDAY</span></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Are you one of the growing ranks of gainfully unemployed – or simply fed up with your crappy job? Then make no excuses and hike your ass down to the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Convention Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> on Wednesday for the 2009 Job Expo, hosted by the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The job fair, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., will feature roughly 150 businesses looking for new employees. There is no admission fee or registration charge for job-seekers. <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Convention Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> is at <st1:address st="on"><st1:street st="on">2101 N. Oak Street</st1:street>, <st1:city st="on">Myrtle Beach</st1:city></st1:address>. Call 626-9668 or visit <a href="http://www.mbhospitality.org/">www.mbhospitality.org</a>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-62412224357702924992009-03-04T11:51:00.001-08:002009-03-04T12:13:01.458-08:00ResurrectionWe're in the season of Lent, so with resurrections on the mind, I thought it was time to reignite this blog.<div>Wow, where have all the good times gone? (To quote Van Halen via The Kinks)</div><div>When last we met - or when I had the gumption to post something here, my now 18-month-old daughter Ava was still in her mama's belly.</div><div>And now she's got a sibling brewing in that same gastro-chamber.</div><div>But it's still early, so we don't know if Ava's getting a bro or sis yet.</div><div>I've got to keep this short, but just wanted my adoring readership to know that I'm planning to revamp this blog and getting it popping again.</div><div>I've got lots of stuff to post, from daily entertainment options along the Grand Strand to news items to a serial novella I'm working on which I plan to post in installments.</div><div>Please stay tuned.</div><div><br /></div><div>- Kentavo</div>Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-84005122318586649612007-03-29T18:46:00.000-07:002007-03-29T18:51:36.716-07:00IT'S A GIRL MRS. WALKER"It's a girl Mrs. Walker, it's a girl,''<br /><br />- from "Glow Girl" by the Who<br /><br /><br />My wife and I found out this week that we're having a baby girl. Maybe.<br /><br />The ultrasound showed no evidence of a tallywacker, so the doctor feels confident we're having a girl, but not 100 percent confident, because the baby was in the breech position.<br /><br />So we're holding off buying all the pink stuff.<br /><br />But at the very least, we've stopped calling her "him.''<br /><br />I am excited to have a girl, but have to curb my intincts of wanting to be overprotective.<br /><br />Yet, I am poised to be the scary dad when little horny high school boys start coming 'round my house.<br /><br />I think I'm going to buy a shotgun.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-26282410460987873502007-03-19T08:37:00.000-07:002007-03-19T09:17:42.544-07:00Something in the AirYesterday, I got to watch my first full spring training game - more or less - as the Braves held on to to beat the Detroit Tigers 4-3.<br /><br />It was encouraging as Tim Hudson tossed 5 scoreless innings.<br /><br />But as soon as the bullpen came in, my stomach started to churn, and true to form, the relief corps allowed 3 runs, and nearly coughed up the lead in the 9<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span>.<br /><br />Anyhow, I know it's only Grapefruit League games, but a win is a win.<br /><br />And it got me to thinking whether this year's team will turn out to be better than last - Atlanta's first losing season since 1990.<br /><br />On paper, I think the 2007 edition is much better.<br /><br />The 2006 Braves main weakness was the bullpen.<br /><br />This year's bullpen appears to be a strength with the additions of Bob <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Wickman</span>, Rafael <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Soriano</span> and Mike Gonzalez. Of that trio, only <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Soriano</span> has been impressive in spring training, so the jury's still out. At least there won't be dead weight such as Chris <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Reitsma</span>, Tom Martin, and Mike <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Remlinger</span>.<br /><br />The right side of the infield may appear to be a weakness with the departures of starting first baseman Adam <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">LaRoche</span> and starting 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">nd</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">bagger</span> Marcus Giles.<br />But I think if Bobby Cox utilizes a mix and match approach, things will smooth themselves out.<br />If he uses a combination of Chris Woodward, Kelly Johnson and Willy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Aybar</span>/Pete Orr/Martin Prado to man 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">nd</span>, it'll be like the days when <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Blauser</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Treadway</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Lemke</span> battled for playing time. Competition stokes the competitive fires.<br />Same thing with first base. I think new acquisition Craig Wilson is going to see plenty of playing time at 1B. Cox loves a 1B platoon, and has always employed a rotation except in the days when we had a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">primetime</span> 1st <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">bagger</span> such as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">McGriff</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Galaraga</span>. The rest of the time, it's been platoon city, featuring such names as Brian Hunter, Ryan Klesko, Rico Brogna, Ken Caminiti, Julio Franco, Matt Franco, B.J. Surhoff, Randall Simon, Wally Joyner, and Robert Fick.<br /><br />Overall, I think this year's team has more flexibility and depth with Woodward and Wilson on the bench.<br /><br />I wish we a had <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">fulltime</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">leftfielder</span>, but Ryan Langerhans and Matt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Diaz</span> are adequate. I wish Brandon Jones would get the call, but he needs some more seasoning in the minors. He looked good yesterday, however. Houston has had the Killer B's and it looks like we'll have another member of the Jones Boys soon.<br /><br />It's starting to look like a very crowded infield.<br />Who knows which utility infielders are going to make the team. At least this year we have some good options from which to choose, and some depth should someone (Chipper) get hurt.<br /><br />And <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Tanyon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Sturtze</span> will be waiting in the wings for a bullpen spot around May, should someone falter.<br /><br />And if someone <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">under-performs</span> in the starting rotation, or gets hurt, we've got whoever doesn't make the fifth spot (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Cormier</span> or Davies) getting innings at Richmond.<br /><br />Speaking of the rotation, how does this potential lineup sound when Hampton gets healthy:<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Smoltz</span>, Hudson, James, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">Redman</span>, Hampton?<br /><br />Sounds as good or better than anybody else in the N.L., if these guys perform to their abilities (Hudson).<br /><br />Let's get this party started.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-75424210305993087362007-03-15T11:27:00.000-07:002007-03-15T11:37:26.632-07:00Finger Lickin' TipLet me first say that I have tremendous respect for the service industry as it plays a vital role in our economy here along the Grand Strand.<br /><br />And when I receive excellent service, I tip accordingly, usually 20 percent or more.<br /><br />But I had an experience the other night to make me stop and ponder whether tipping has gone too far.<br /><br />After waiting for about 5 minutes in the drive <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">thru</span> at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">KFC</span> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Surfside</span> Beach before someone would take my order, I got to the window and paid with my debit card. Oops, let me backtrack, they were out of Original Recipe - what I usually order, so I had to get crispy instead.<br /><br />Anyway, I get my bill to sign and return, and it has a slot for the tip. A tip? At <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">KFC</span>?<br /><br />I've got a tip for 'em: make enough original recipe to last until closing time.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-20214981876191612222007-03-13T18:58:00.000-07:002007-03-13T19:16:10.456-07:00Digging in the "Dirt"Okay, I'm sitting in here in anticipation of my new favorite show, ``Dirt'' on FX starring Courtney Cox.<br /><br />I was hooked from the moment I saw Cox using her vibrator under the covers.<br /><br />"Dirt'' - with its sex-fueled fictional look inside the Hollywood tabloid scene - is the best thing going on basic cable right now.<br /><br />Check it out at 10 p.m. Tuesdays on FX, which is channel 39 on Time Warner's south Strand cable system.<br /><br />I have but one problem with the show: the character Holt is totally not believable as an action hero/movie star. He has the charisma of a turd growing moss.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-72768717814051464372007-03-05T12:07:00.000-08:002007-03-05T12:22:45.989-08:00The Cure for What Ales YouI'm still kind of shocked at how nice the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">remodeled</span> Remedies near the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Backgate</span> is after visiting Saturday night.<br />Still looks like a dive from the outside, with its yellow and brown decor.<br />But on the inside, it's a whole different ball game.<br />First off, it's been expanded to take up the other half of the building, formerly occupied by a succession of strip clubs.<br />Everything is wide open, as they did away with the overhead storage above the bar, and pub-style booths have been installed, with stainless steel table tops, the floor is tiled, and in the new space, there's some nice couches creating little den areas, and flat panel TVs are everywhere.<br />This place is snazzy now - and it's on par with say Liberty Taproom. Seriously.<br />It's as if Ty Pennington and his Extreme Makeover crew made a stopover at Remedies while they were in town recently.<br />You gotta check it out. Remedies Sports Bar and Grill is at 4803 U.S. 17 Bypass, just south of the intersection with S.C. 707.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-69988541458444159462007-03-01T13:52:00.000-08:002007-03-01T13:56:14.252-08:00Hope Springs EternalYes, I know it's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pre</span>-season and the games mean nothing, but I'm still psyched over today's 7-2 ass-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">whoopin</span>' the Atlanta Braves handed out to the L.A. Dodgers.<br /><br />We're 2-0!<br /><br />More importantly, 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span> starter candidate Kyle Davies tossed two scoreless innings.<br /><br />Cannot wait until tomorrow's 1 p.m. ESPN-televised <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">matchup</span> of the Bravos vs. the Pittsburgh <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">LaRoache's</span> - er Pirates.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-27902111325242713412007-02-28T09:03:00.000-08:002007-02-28T09:07:26.979-08:00The Magic MirrenIt's been a couple of days since the Academy Awards, but I wanted to get this observation out there: Hellen Mirren is hot!<br />I don't care how old she is.<br /><br />Mirren, who picked up the best actress Oscar for her role in "The Queen,'' is quite sultry at age 61.<br /><br />And she doesn't look plastic, say like Joan Rivers does.<br /><br />Hail to The Queen.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8752880977627526845.post-18072988659401089592007-02-26T09:57:00.000-08:002007-02-26T10:04:02.961-08:00The Sound of SilenceYesterday (Feb. 26) was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Meher</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Baba's</span> birthday, of importance to us <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Horry</span> Co. folk because the spiritual master's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Meher</span> Spiritual Center (<a href="http://www.mehercenter.org/">http://www.mehercenter.org/</a>) is right here in our backyard, abutting <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Briarcliffe</span> Acres, across from Colonial Mall.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Baba</span>, whose followers include many famous musicians and creative types, took a vow of silence during his lifetime and is credited with coining the phrase ``don't worry, be happy.''<br /><br />Bobby <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">McFerrin</span> thanks him.Kent Kimeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10080852755163473381noreply@blogger.com3