The 2012 edition of the EMC Classic had many hurdles to overcome this August; The London Olympics were in full swing and CTV television ratings were through the roof with an estimated five million viewers at any given hour... Many of the participants had to juggle their busy schedules in order to participate in the two sanctioned events;The 5.26k run and the traditional last event of the EMC Classic, the nine hole golf tournament...And heavy rain was in the forecast thus threatening the cancellation of the two events for the first time in EMC Classic history...But the EMC Classic committee has never met an obstacle that would sway its optimism and passion for competition and the events future. All those involved stayed positive and kept their fingers crossed as far as Mother Nature was concerned.
Devine Intervention: While storms and heavy rain raged within a 100 kilometre radius, the EMC Classic Gods were looking down on the two events and its participants with nary a drop of rain all day thus sparing the organizers the logistical nightmare of rescheduling the events.
The Teams: 2012's EMC Classic's eight participants were split into two teams...The Legends: EMC Vice-Chairman Dan, Quebec Chairman Norm, EMC Treasurer John and newcomer Guy #2 (not his real name)...and The Leaders: EMC Chairman Ed, Scooter, EMC Quebec Vice Chairman Scott and another newcomer, Guy #1 (not his real name).
5.26k Love-In: The 2012 EMC Classic kicked off with the traditional 5.26k run with five athletes participating...Glen, Guy #2, and Scott were early scratches for personal and physical reasons. Norm, the overwhelming favourite, won the event with a time of 26 minutes. The rest of the field was lead by Guy #1; a gutsy performance by Dan, who was under the weather; a solid run by the Zen inspired Ed who relies on his music for motivation and the ever classy sportsman himself, John, whose no quit attitude was an inspiration for all involved. A teary eyed Scott was quoted as saying "John defines what sport and competition is all about". The 5.26k run represents the true essence of what the EMC Classic is about...A wide range of individuals with varying strengths and weaknesses coming together as one to create inspiration for everyone...Eight men creating a true love-in...In a non gay way of course.
Steroid Controversy?!?: The second and last event of the EMC Classic was the afternoon nine hole golf tournament. First foursome was Scott, Guy #1, John and Guy #2, followed by Ed, Glen, Norm and Dan. Normally golf and the results would be the main topic of discussion after nine exhausting holes of play. Indeed John and Guy #2 beat Scott and Guy #1, up one hole; Glen and Ed won by three against the inconsistent team of Norm and Dan...An emotional and mentally exhausted Ed snapped at Scott telling him "I told you all you had to do is win by two and the EMC Classic trophy is ours!"...Chairman Ed later apoligized for his uncharacteristic outburst...but the murmurs amongst a few athletes had begun: Some of the athletes were good golfers...a little TOO good. It all started when Dan said off the record that he had never seen anyone hit the ball as far as the two Guys and was it possible that they were getting "a little extra help?". Scott, who played with both "Guys" in his foursome echoed the words of Dan, saying "Something is rotten in Denmark; Where there's smoke there's fire and If it's too good to be true, it usually is" (Scott loves his expressions). Norm commented if these "Guys" aren't natural, there has to be an investigation. The one person not saying a lot or questioning their abilities was the Chairman, Ed. Could it be that the Chairman, who brought the two "Guys" in to participate for the first time, is behind some kind of conspiracy and cover-up? Why were the two "Guys" real names never revealed; why did the two "Guys" leave the golf course immediately after the event and not participate in the after party?...Maybe to avoid drug testing?; why did Dan and Scooter leave early the following morning without saying goodbye?...Maybe the Chairman paid them hush money to avoid scandal; did Ed try to divert everyones attention by putting the two "Guys" on separate teams so the fix wouldn't look obvious? Quebec Chairman Norm said in an interview Monday that a full and impartial investigation will be headed by Scott, John and himself. Let's hope that there is nothing to the claims of "a little help" in order to win and that the EMC Classic has not lost its innocence.
And The 2012 EMC Is Awarded To: Congratulations to The Legends and their win in the 5th EMC Classic. The Chairman proudly presented the award to 5.26k legend Norm proclaiming him the MVP of the event and a certain Hall of Famer when his eligibility begins in five years. The Chairman also had a major announcement to make.
I LoVermont!!!: EMC Classic Chairman Ed could not contain himself...He was bursting at the seams..."The 2013 EMC Classic is awarded to...(Undisclosed location) Vermont!!!" The EMC athletes were in utter disbelief. What started five years earlier as a week-end of golf and drinking in Canada had evolved into a week-end of golf and drinking in...Another country!!! Dan was quoted as saying "We have really come a long way"...Scott said "It's like we've done a total 360 with this competition"...John said "Scott, you mean a 180"...Scott said "Oh ya, I always get those mixed up."
Food And Beverage Review: On the menu before golf was sausage, sausage and more sausage...A real sausage fest of sorts...John was in charge of the barbeque and though he had a little trouble starting the BBQ, he put his heart and soul into cooking those sausages...He was careful not to mix the Brats with the honey dijons and was extra careful with the pesky Italians. Once the sausages were ready to eat, we couldn't get enough of them...Scott and Ed had two at once and were tempted to have three...But we had a golf game to play. There was plenty Coors Light and wine for all thanks to Ed and his fine taste. The dinner was fantastic, consisting of lean hamburgers and salads. Simple, nutritious and hearty. A meal fit for champions! Overall grade: A+
When The Music's Over: One of the most anticipated moments of the EMC week-end is the music selection. The Chairman has always made this his personal pet project and THE most important aspect to the Closing Ceremonies. Ed added a new dimension to the music for this years event...Accompanied with a music video. This revolutionary idea had never been attempted and it was a very risky decision by the famously autocratic Chairman. The consensus of all involved was...It was a smashing success! It was nice to place the faces to the music...Music that Scott said "90% of which I've never heard"...Who cares...Who wouldn't want to see some booty accompanied by the words "Shake that thang." My only critisism would be to play a little more classic rock and '80's music. Overall grade: A-
Eight Is Enough: Quebec Vice Chairman Scott and EMC Chairman Ed were seen by others having a very private and serious discussion. The whole conversation could not be heard but Quebec Chairman Norm, eves dropping on the two, was able to quote the following;
Scott: "Ed, I think that we have reached our limit as far as participants go; eight is enough."
Ed: "I agree...hey eight is enough like the show Eight Is Enough."
Scott: "Ya, I remember Eight Is Enough."
Ed: "What was the name of the little kid...I can't remember."
Scott: "I know the actors name is Adam Rich but I can't remember his name on the show."
Ed: "Hmmm."
Scott: "I do remember Tommy."
Ed: "Oh, right...He was also on Charles In Charge."
Scott: "That's right! Who played the father on the show."
Ed: "You mean Charles In Charge?"
Scott: "No,Eight Is Enough."
Ed: "Wasn't that Dick Van Dyke?"
Scott: "No Dick Van Dyke was on...jeez, what was he on?"
Ed: "Well I know he was on Matlock but he was famous for something else."
Scott: "Dick Van Patten!!!"
Ed: "Oh ya, right...He was good."
Eight Is Enough...yup...good show.
To all involved In the 2012 EMC Classic...It was a blast...See you next year and keep training!!!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Tony Marinaro...Canada's Most Obnoxious Radio Broadcaster
TSN 990 Radio's Tony Marinaro will never be mistaken for being generous when it comes to broadcast etiquette...Tony Marinaro will never be remembered for his social graces or obliging personality...Tony Marinaro will never acknowledge that a conversation should include two or more people. After nine years at TSN 990, all of these underwhelming traits have produced a broaadcaster whose approach can only be described with one word...OBNOXIOUS.
In order to be recognized as Canada's "most obnoxious radio broadcaster", you have to meet several criteria for which you are deemed so unbearable, that it takes the listener every ounce of restraint not to take a sledgehammer to the radio! Many broadcasters can bring out these savage impulses but Marinaro is in a league of his own! Here are but a few of the examples that earned Marinaro his infamous distinction as...MOST OBNOXIOUS IN CANADA.
-Has been known to call his listeners and e-mailers "morons" when anyone disagrees with his opinion.
-Predictions seem to be so very important to him...The show has become his personal fantasy league.
-Thinks that predictions are a science...An exact science when he is right.
-Brags about his correct predictions incessantly the next broadcast day.
-His predictions come with underlying contradictions and assorted scenarios in order to keep all the bases covered when defending himself the next day.
-VERY ethnocentric...He reserves an uncharacteristic respect and patience for his Italian brethren.
-Interrupts callers in mid-sentence, goes on a tangent and thanks the listener for calling...End of conversation Marinaro style.
-Never lets Randy Tieman finish a thought...Good thing or bad, it's pretty rude.
-Can't accept any negative comments contrary to his point of view.
-Will spend the whole show defending past comments all the while claiming he doesn't want this to be the shows primary focus.(Prime example: When Tony insisted that Jacques Martin should have put Canadiens' hometown rookie Louis Leblanc on for the opening faceoff, for HUMANITARIAN reasons, regardless of Leblanc's status as a fourth liner.)...The next two hours were spent debating and defending this trivial subject.
-Seems to be psychic...Twenty four hours after a sporting event he claims to have known that a certain team would win...We're not worthy!
-His useless Twitter question of the day is designed to get people riled up. More times than not it's just a big waste of time. Example; When ex Montreal Canadien Jaroslav Halak's St.Louis Blues beat Carey Price's Canadiens, Marinaro asked if "the right goalie was traded". This question received such a negative response that Marinaro once again resorted to calling listeners "morons" for criticizing his question.
-Says "I'm not going to lie to you" quite a bit...What sort of person usually says that...Hmmm.
-A couple of years back when the Canadiens Scott Gomez was struggling with his play, for weeks Marinaro had a shtick where he'd call out: Scoott! Gomez! Come here boy! Where are you!? There's the goal! (Like calling for a dog) The routine was borderline racist and halted suddenly (management?). There is nothing wrong with being controversial and edgy but when the motives of the person are mean spirited with a tinge of racism, it's inexcusable.
-Still thinks "Rocky" is real...I think that sums up everything!
In order to be recognized as Canada's "most obnoxious radio broadcaster", you have to meet several criteria for which you are deemed so unbearable, that it takes the listener every ounce of restraint not to take a sledgehammer to the radio! Many broadcasters can bring out these savage impulses but Marinaro is in a league of his own! Here are but a few of the examples that earned Marinaro his infamous distinction as...MOST OBNOXIOUS IN CANADA.
-Has been known to call his listeners and e-mailers "morons" when anyone disagrees with his opinion.
-Predictions seem to be so very important to him...The show has become his personal fantasy league.
-Thinks that predictions are a science...An exact science when he is right.
-Brags about his correct predictions incessantly the next broadcast day.
-His predictions come with underlying contradictions and assorted scenarios in order to keep all the bases covered when defending himself the next day.
-VERY ethnocentric...He reserves an uncharacteristic respect and patience for his Italian brethren.
-Interrupts callers in mid-sentence, goes on a tangent and thanks the listener for calling...End of conversation Marinaro style.
-Never lets Randy Tieman finish a thought...Good thing or bad, it's pretty rude.
-Can't accept any negative comments contrary to his point of view.
-Will spend the whole show defending past comments all the while claiming he doesn't want this to be the shows primary focus.(Prime example: When Tony insisted that Jacques Martin should have put Canadiens' hometown rookie Louis Leblanc on for the opening faceoff, for HUMANITARIAN reasons, regardless of Leblanc's status as a fourth liner.)...The next two hours were spent debating and defending this trivial subject.
-Seems to be psychic...Twenty four hours after a sporting event he claims to have known that a certain team would win...We're not worthy!
-His useless Twitter question of the day is designed to get people riled up. More times than not it's just a big waste of time. Example; When ex Montreal Canadien Jaroslav Halak's St.Louis Blues beat Carey Price's Canadiens, Marinaro asked if "the right goalie was traded". This question received such a negative response that Marinaro once again resorted to calling listeners "morons" for criticizing his question.
-Says "I'm not going to lie to you" quite a bit...What sort of person usually says that...Hmmm.
-A couple of years back when the Canadiens Scott Gomez was struggling with his play, for weeks Marinaro had a shtick where he'd call out: Scoott! Gomez! Come here boy! Where are you!? There's the goal! (Like calling for a dog) The routine was borderline racist and halted suddenly (management?). There is nothing wrong with being controversial and edgy but when the motives of the person are mean spirited with a tinge of racism, it's inexcusable.
-Still thinks "Rocky" is real...I think that sums up everything!
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
The Montreal Gazette's Pat Hickey-He Doesn't Know
Pat Hickey has had a long, solid career as a reporter and columnist dating back to the mid 1960's. He's been sports editor for the Montreal Star and Gazette, a deputy editor with the Toronto Star, a college professor...Hickey also possesses a masters degree in journalism AND a bachelors degree in Chinese history. On Monday evening, December the 12th, the Montreal Gazette sports columnist submitted an article titled "Theo Fleury Hypocritical For Blasting Justice System's Handling Of Graham James Case" on the Gazette web site...With one click of the send button, a long career as a responsible journalist was ruined.
Hickey's disparaging column about Fleury stems from the former NHLers criticism of the justice system allowing sexual predator Graham James to roam the streets while on bail, while awaiting sentencing in February. James and Fleury were co-owners of the Calgary Hitmen when Fleury was still playing in the NHL and before he had come out as a victim of James' sexual abuse while a minor league hockey player coached by James.
Hickey's column painted Fleury as a victim of sexual abuse who failed to speak up until it was too late for many other victims. Hickey called Fleury an enabler...A victim that should have known when the right time was to break his silence...A non deserving "poster child" for sexual abuse victims.
One question Pat forgot to ask of his conscience was...WHO AM I TO JUDGE?
Does anyone have the right to judge how a person handles their personal turmoil...How their secret slowly eats away at their soul...How these victims feel guilt...How these victims become seduced by their victims...How their childhood was taken away...How as an adult, the emptiness lingers. Did you ever once, Pat Hickey, think of the long term effects of abuse victims while you were trying to meet a deadline?
These questions were posed on TSN 990's Mitch Melnick radio program on December the 13th. Hickey was given a chance to explain his mindset and motivation for the column. He kept harping on about Fleury being an unworthy "poster child" for abuse...How he is "grandstanding" to sell books...And that he should have broken his silence as an adult and saved others from being victims of Graham James. Several callers painfully revealed their own struggles as adults after being victims of sexual abuse. That as a child they were threatened into keeping their silence...And the silence remained for years. Hickey was asked why he never researched or thought about these very complex emotions that a victim experiences before writing the column. Pat Hickey and his masters degree in journalism could only summon the words...I DON'T KNOW, I DON'T KNOW. That's right Pat, you don't know.
Hickey's disparaging column about Fleury stems from the former NHLers criticism of the justice system allowing sexual predator Graham James to roam the streets while on bail, while awaiting sentencing in February. James and Fleury were co-owners of the Calgary Hitmen when Fleury was still playing in the NHL and before he had come out as a victim of James' sexual abuse while a minor league hockey player coached by James.
Hickey's column painted Fleury as a victim of sexual abuse who failed to speak up until it was too late for many other victims. Hickey called Fleury an enabler...A victim that should have known when the right time was to break his silence...A non deserving "poster child" for sexual abuse victims.
One question Pat forgot to ask of his conscience was...WHO AM I TO JUDGE?
Does anyone have the right to judge how a person handles their personal turmoil...How their secret slowly eats away at their soul...How these victims feel guilt...How these victims become seduced by their victims...How their childhood was taken away...How as an adult, the emptiness lingers. Did you ever once, Pat Hickey, think of the long term effects of abuse victims while you were trying to meet a deadline?
These questions were posed on TSN 990's Mitch Melnick radio program on December the 13th. Hickey was given a chance to explain his mindset and motivation for the column. He kept harping on about Fleury being an unworthy "poster child" for abuse...How he is "grandstanding" to sell books...And that he should have broken his silence as an adult and saved others from being victims of Graham James. Several callers painfully revealed their own struggles as adults after being victims of sexual abuse. That as a child they were threatened into keeping their silence...And the silence remained for years. Hickey was asked why he never researched or thought about these very complex emotions that a victim experiences before writing the column. Pat Hickey and his masters degree in journalism could only summon the words...I DON'T KNOW, I DON'T KNOW. That's right Pat, you don't know.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Montreal's TSN 990-The Saga Continues
When Montreal's TSN 990 Radio (previously The Team 990) won the exclusive radio broadcast rights for the Montreal Canadien games, I thought that the struggling all-sports radio station had turned a corner to radio respectability. The station and Bell Media (TSN 990 owner) , with one stroke of the pen, changed the future of Montreal english language all-sports radio by signing the broadcast rights deal. Without the broadcast deal, TSN 990 would have been relegated to an '80's Hits station by the end of the year. In 2010, TSN Radio's crown jewel in their broadcast schedule was the Juniors de Montreal hockey games - in what could only be described as embarrassing for a station claiming to be "Montreal's Sports Authority". The Canadiens broadcast is a huge step up for TSN Radio and their claims of being the "Sports Authority". Or is it. What the station may have gained in prestige by broadcasting the Habs games, as far as the on-air talent and format is concerned, the status quo remains...As the saying goes "The more things change, the more things stay the same.".
TSN 990 may have changed their name and gained the Canadiens broadcast rights but the makeover should have included an extreme modification of the on-air "talent" and their shows...a house cleaning, so to speak. I realize that Montreal has suffered a great exodus of english radio talent over the past twenty years...and some legendary broadcasters have passed on (We miss you Ted Tevan; We'll always remember you, Ted Blackman)...Broadcasters the likes we'll NEVER hear again. The concern for Montreal radio is the lack of talent to carry the torch for a new generation...A generation of listeners that have become short changed with mediocrity...And will never hear a radio legend for THEIR time.
TSN Radio, with their "stellar" line-up of talent, fit the on-going mediocre talent trend and are a prime example that complacency is alive and well as far as Montreal radio goes. Here is a candid review of TSN 990's Monday to Friday on-air talent...And who to leave in and leave out.
The Morning Show - 6:00-10:00 a.m.:
Elliott Price and Shaun Starr host the morning time slot that works well with two hosts, instead of the original three...Unfortunately Denis Casavant vacated the third spot instead of Shaun Starr. Starr is not ready for prime time...He's a sophomoric contrarian who defines a new breed of radio personality...An egotistical host without much substance. A prime example was the day he proclaimed that there was so little going on in the sports world that "he misses the time when Max Pacioretty was seriously injured by Zdeno Chara of the Boston Bruins...That was fun to discuss"...What!?!?! Maybe if Starr had something intelligent to offer the show, he wouldn't have to make such sick statements. Elliott Price, though a tad sarcastic at times, is an intelligent radio talent and deserves a lot better than Starr.
For The Record...A lot of listeners enjoy Starr...He's not horrible at what he does...Maybe he just needs to be more giving as a broadcaster...That comes with maturity.
Best Contributor Award...Bob McKenzie and Francois Gagnon.
Dullest Contributor Award...Randle The Handle...Does he even enjoy his job?...zzzzzz.
Wish You Were Here Award...Denis Casavant.
Tony Marinaro - 10:00-12:00 a.m.:
Tony, oh Tony, why do I want to like you so much but each day you say something that keeps me thinking "Maybe tomorrow." Tony's not all that bad but his listeners do fall into two categories...You either worship the airwaves he fills or shake your fist at the sky in frustration! I think he is a showman that knows exactly what he's doing...but it don't make it right. At least Howard Stern is endearing at times.
POSITIVES:
-Good radio style and timing.
-His analysis of the Canadiens and NHL is top notch.
NEGATIVES:
-Interrupts callers.
-Ethnocentric.
-Thinks that predictions are a science...An exact science when he is right.
-Brags about his correct predictions incessantly the next broadcast day.
-Can't accept any negative comments contrary to his point of view.
-Will spend the whole show defending his comments all the while claiming he doesn't want this to be the shows primary focus.(Prime example: When Tony insisted that Jacques Martin should have put Canadiens' hometown rookie Louis Leblanc on for the opening faceoff, for HUMANITARIAN reasons, regardless of Leblanc's status as a fourth liner.)...The next two hours were spent debating and defending this trivial subject.
-Half of what he says is lifted from sports sites and blogs.
-And...His now famous five year plan for the Montreal Canadiens. The "tank the season" comments.(Google Tony Marinaro's five year plan) Tony never did get that Canadiens G.M. job...Come on Tony, you thought you had a chance...Admit it.
For The Record...Tony must be doing something right...He's been with TSN 990/The Team for nine years and in that time has become a pretty good broadcaster...My opinion of Tony is that of the "shake your fist in the sky" group of listeners...How we love to hate him!
Best Contributor Award...Normand Flynn...Knows his hockey...Send your C.V. to the Canadiens, coach...please!
Best Caller Award...Gerry from Rosemont.
The Montreal Forum - 12:00-1:00 p.m.:
Habs talk with 80% Tony Marinaro,20% Randy Tieman...The Ego vs. The Unprepared. The hour is just an extension of The Tony Marinaro Show with Tieman adding endless "it's fun", "come on" and "good stuff" comments...Randy prepares nothing for the hour...and it shows...Tony seems to love doing this hour...He gets to dominate the conversation, which is easy since Randy just floats through the hour...Preparing for:
The Tieman Show - 1:00-3:00 p.m.:
Pathologically optimistic Randy Tieman...His old sports stories add value to the TSN 990 lineup but he needs to do his homework as far as contemporary sports goes.
-Has a high likability quotient...Nuff said.
Melnick In The Afternoon - 3:00-7:00 p.m.:
Melnick IS Montreal's, maybe Canada's, most talented broadcaster...Bob McCown can take his commercial that claims that he is Canada's best and...well, fill in the blank. Melnick offers not just a sports show but a show about life. Mitch gets it...All sports, all the time becomes stale and boring. If you create a show where there are no boundaries, combined with the right talent and passion, you can achieve radio gold. As Tevan used to say, this is the game of life...And Melnick has lived by those sage words uttered so many years ago.
Best At What He Does Award...Rod Francis...Knows his place on the show...An intelligent, informative guy who knows when to speak...and when to let Mitch do his thing...A perfect complement to The Boss.
Best Contributor Award...Elliott Friedman and Bill Lee.
Best Contributor Who Has Spoken To, Texted And Had Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner With That Person On That Day Award...Pierre McGuire.
Wish You Were Here Award...Stephen Brunt.
We Miss You Award...Andie Bennett...Didn't know her major sports but a great personality.
Best Guest Host Award...Ron Francis.
OTHER ON-AIR TALENT:
Sean Campbell...The ever loquacious Campbell has a bright future in radio if he would just learn that you don't have to say everything on a topic all at once...Less talky and more rapport or give and take in a conversation. He's improved in the last year but still has to be reeled in by the hosts with his four minute monologues.
Conor McKenna...When aked about Hal Gill and his talents, Michael Farber said "His best asset is that he's just there". Same goes for McKenna, who is a sort of relief pitcher for the various hosts. He is not bad at his job but not that great. Has an old school radio voice but lacks passion and charisma. He does his shows in his typical sardonic style...Kind of makes you wonder how genuine he really is...We're not sure. An enigma wrapped in a riddle. If Mckenna can find his true voice and personality some day, he could have a solid career.
Best And Only TSN 990 Soundbite Played On The Howard Stern Show Award...Marco Campagna..."Nothing F-in works!!!"
Need To Enunciate Better Award...Shaun Starr and Simon Tsakisis...Here's a tip to the listeners...When either one is on the radio and you are driving, keep the windows closed otherwise you will miss every second word.
Best Personality With A British Accent (I think) Award...Noel Butler.
Best Female Personality On TSN 990 Now That Andie Bennett Is Gone Award...Amanda Stein.
Best Up And Coming Talent Award...Mitch Gallo. Watch out young bucks, this kid is going to have his own show someday. Gallo has the generosity and personality it takes to carry a show.
Best At Being Classy Guy Award...The very classy Jimmy G. Is there anyone that is more nice and polite than "The G-Man"? I think not. A true gentleman.
Best Programming Decision Award...Montreal Canadien broadcasts on TSN 990!!!
Worst Programming Decision Award...Week-ends on TSN 990...Bring back ESPN radio...The local content is so college radio.
One thing is certain...At TSN 990, the Radio Chaos continues...And we wouldn't have it any other way!
TSN 990 may have changed their name and gained the Canadiens broadcast rights but the makeover should have included an extreme modification of the on-air "talent" and their shows...a house cleaning, so to speak. I realize that Montreal has suffered a great exodus of english radio talent over the past twenty years...and some legendary broadcasters have passed on (We miss you Ted Tevan; We'll always remember you, Ted Blackman)...Broadcasters the likes we'll NEVER hear again. The concern for Montreal radio is the lack of talent to carry the torch for a new generation...A generation of listeners that have become short changed with mediocrity...And will never hear a radio legend for THEIR time.
TSN Radio, with their "stellar" line-up of talent, fit the on-going mediocre talent trend and are a prime example that complacency is alive and well as far as Montreal radio goes. Here is a candid review of TSN 990's Monday to Friday on-air talent...And who to leave in and leave out.
The Morning Show - 6:00-10:00 a.m.:
Elliott Price and Shaun Starr host the morning time slot that works well with two hosts, instead of the original three...Unfortunately Denis Casavant vacated the third spot instead of Shaun Starr. Starr is not ready for prime time...He's a sophomoric contrarian who defines a new breed of radio personality...An egotistical host without much substance. A prime example was the day he proclaimed that there was so little going on in the sports world that "he misses the time when Max Pacioretty was seriously injured by Zdeno Chara of the Boston Bruins...That was fun to discuss"...What!?!?! Maybe if Starr had something intelligent to offer the show, he wouldn't have to make such sick statements. Elliott Price, though a tad sarcastic at times, is an intelligent radio talent and deserves a lot better than Starr.
For The Record...A lot of listeners enjoy Starr...He's not horrible at what he does...Maybe he just needs to be more giving as a broadcaster...That comes with maturity.
Best Contributor Award...Bob McKenzie and Francois Gagnon.
Dullest Contributor Award...Randle The Handle...Does he even enjoy his job?...zzzzzz.
Wish You Were Here Award...Denis Casavant.
Tony Marinaro - 10:00-12:00 a.m.:
Tony, oh Tony, why do I want to like you so much but each day you say something that keeps me thinking "Maybe tomorrow." Tony's not all that bad but his listeners do fall into two categories...You either worship the airwaves he fills or shake your fist at the sky in frustration! I think he is a showman that knows exactly what he's doing...but it don't make it right. At least Howard Stern is endearing at times.
POSITIVES:
-Good radio style and timing.
-His analysis of the Canadiens and NHL is top notch.
NEGATIVES:
-Interrupts callers.
-Ethnocentric.
-Thinks that predictions are a science...An exact science when he is right.
-Brags about his correct predictions incessantly the next broadcast day.
-Can't accept any negative comments contrary to his point of view.
-Will spend the whole show defending his comments all the while claiming he doesn't want this to be the shows primary focus.(Prime example: When Tony insisted that Jacques Martin should have put Canadiens' hometown rookie Louis Leblanc on for the opening faceoff, for HUMANITARIAN reasons, regardless of Leblanc's status as a fourth liner.)...The next two hours were spent debating and defending this trivial subject.
-Half of what he says is lifted from sports sites and blogs.
-And...His now famous five year plan for the Montreal Canadiens. The "tank the season" comments.(Google Tony Marinaro's five year plan) Tony never did get that Canadiens G.M. job...Come on Tony, you thought you had a chance...Admit it.
For The Record...Tony must be doing something right...He's been with TSN 990/The Team for nine years and in that time has become a pretty good broadcaster...My opinion of Tony is that of the "shake your fist in the sky" group of listeners...How we love to hate him!
Best Contributor Award...Normand Flynn...Knows his hockey...Send your C.V. to the Canadiens, coach...please!
Best Caller Award...Gerry from Rosemont.
The Montreal Forum - 12:00-1:00 p.m.:
Habs talk with 80% Tony Marinaro,20% Randy Tieman...The Ego vs. The Unprepared. The hour is just an extension of The Tony Marinaro Show with Tieman adding endless "it's fun", "come on" and "good stuff" comments...Randy prepares nothing for the hour...and it shows...Tony seems to love doing this hour...He gets to dominate the conversation, which is easy since Randy just floats through the hour...Preparing for:
The Tieman Show - 1:00-3:00 p.m.:
Pathologically optimistic Randy Tieman...His old sports stories add value to the TSN 990 lineup but he needs to do his homework as far as contemporary sports goes.
-Has a high likability quotient...Nuff said.
Melnick In The Afternoon - 3:00-7:00 p.m.:
Melnick IS Montreal's, maybe Canada's, most talented broadcaster...Bob McCown can take his commercial that claims that he is Canada's best and...well, fill in the blank. Melnick offers not just a sports show but a show about life. Mitch gets it...All sports, all the time becomes stale and boring. If you create a show where there are no boundaries, combined with the right talent and passion, you can achieve radio gold. As Tevan used to say, this is the game of life...And Melnick has lived by those sage words uttered so many years ago.
Best At What He Does Award...Rod Francis...Knows his place on the show...An intelligent, informative guy who knows when to speak...and when to let Mitch do his thing...A perfect complement to The Boss.
Best Contributor Award...Elliott Friedman and Bill Lee.
Best Contributor Who Has Spoken To, Texted And Had Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner With That Person On That Day Award...Pierre McGuire.
Wish You Were Here Award...Stephen Brunt.
We Miss You Award...Andie Bennett...Didn't know her major sports but a great personality.
Best Guest Host Award...Ron Francis.
OTHER ON-AIR TALENT:
Sean Campbell...The ever loquacious Campbell has a bright future in radio if he would just learn that you don't have to say everything on a topic all at once...Less talky and more rapport or give and take in a conversation. He's improved in the last year but still has to be reeled in by the hosts with his four minute monologues.
Conor McKenna...When aked about Hal Gill and his talents, Michael Farber said "His best asset is that he's just there". Same goes for McKenna, who is a sort of relief pitcher for the various hosts. He is not bad at his job but not that great. Has an old school radio voice but lacks passion and charisma. He does his shows in his typical sardonic style...Kind of makes you wonder how genuine he really is...We're not sure. An enigma wrapped in a riddle. If Mckenna can find his true voice and personality some day, he could have a solid career.
Best And Only TSN 990 Soundbite Played On The Howard Stern Show Award...Marco Campagna..."Nothing F-in works!!!"
Need To Enunciate Better Award...Shaun Starr and Simon Tsakisis...Here's a tip to the listeners...When either one is on the radio and you are driving, keep the windows closed otherwise you will miss every second word.
Best Personality With A British Accent (I think) Award...Noel Butler.
Best Female Personality On TSN 990 Now That Andie Bennett Is Gone Award...Amanda Stein.
Best Up And Coming Talent Award...Mitch Gallo. Watch out young bucks, this kid is going to have his own show someday. Gallo has the generosity and personality it takes to carry a show.
Best At Being Classy Guy Award...The very classy Jimmy G. Is there anyone that is more nice and polite than "The G-Man"? I think not. A true gentleman.
Best Programming Decision Award...Montreal Canadien broadcasts on TSN 990!!!
Worst Programming Decision Award...Week-ends on TSN 990...Bring back ESPN radio...The local content is so college radio.
One thing is certain...At TSN 990, the Radio Chaos continues...And we wouldn't have it any other way!
Sunday, August 1, 2010
The 2010 EMC Classic-One For The Ages!
There was not a lot of giddy anticipation leading up to this years 2010 edition of the EMC Classic...The regular field of 6 to 8 participants had dwindled to 4 due to several athlete's personal obligations...The 5 kilometre run was canceled due to event Chairman Ed's and Scott's physical limitations...Glen C. was a last minute cancelation...Quebec Chairman Norm was four hours late and could not be reached by phone...And Honourary Chairman Lee M.,our trusty mentor and inspirational leader was not present for the first time in the three year history of the event. Things were looking quite bleak for this year's EMC,indeed...There was even talk that this may be the LAST year for the event...Until something miraculous happened...The collective few involved realized what this week-end is about...F-in Pabst Blue Ribbon and wine!...We had to uphold the tradition of the EMC Classic and carry on for the future...Vice Chairman Dan,Ed,Norm and Quebec Vice Chairman Scott did not disappoint!
Here are but a few of this year's event highlights:
-The event opening ceremonies started with the traditional handing over of the EMC trophy (by the "Keeper Of The EMC", Scott) to Chairman Ed...And the transfer of the beer cooler, symbolizing good will between Quebec and Ontario, to Vice Chairman Dan.
-Norm had not arrived as yet...And could not be reached by phone; Ed becoming ever frustrated.
-Opening ceremonies continue with Ed being handed a king can of Pabst Blue Ribbon as a gesture of our appreciation for organizing the event.
-Ed calls Norm again, leaves a message and starts to bash Norm for being a potential no show.
-Dan and Scott continue to enjoy more...and more...and more Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.
-Ed continues to bad mouth Norm for not calling and even speculates that he went to an outdoor concert.
-Two and a half hours pass...Still no word from Norm...And after 12 Pabst Blue Ribbons and some wine...We forget that Norm has not arrived yet...And that we have to play golf in 45 minutes!
-Norm, shockingly, arrives a half hour before our 3:47 p.m. tee off time...Dan and Scott proclaim there was never a doubt on his arrival...Ed admits he thought Norm had let him down.
-3:47 p.m., the 2010 EMC Classic officially starts with Team Wine, Ed and Norm; against Team Beer, Dan and Scott!
-In a best ball format, Team Beer gets off to a four hole lead in the first four holes.
-Team Wine slowly fights back with ties and wins on the next several holes...Norm surprises everyone with his grit and concentration...Scott continues to falter with his inconsistent play.
-On the 18th hole, par4, Team Wine and Team Beer are tied and it's down to the wire...There is no tomorrow for either team.
-Norm makes a decent drive just off the fairway, 200 or so yards...Scott finally participates with a 250 yard drive right down the center of the fairway.
-Norm and Ed make acceptable 2nd shots, in play but well short of the green...Scott duffs his 2nd shot...25 yards up the middle...Dan, ever the optimist, tells me not to worry, he'll make up for it...Dan's 2nd shot goes to the right...deep in the woods.
-Team Wine, 3rd shot, Norm makes the clutch shot of the day...on the green, 12 yards past the hole...Dan and Scott, feeling the pressure, make a decent 3rd shot but short of the green...Team Wine is in control.
-Team Wine 2 putt with a respectable 6...Team Beer, their morale shot, could not pull off the miracle and lose on the final hole to the Team Wine upstarts!!!
-A shocked Dan, ever the voice of reason, said it best..."In sports, you never give up and...never know what can happen"...Sage words, my friend.
-Ed and Norm, classy as always, congratulated Team Beer for a match well played...The disappointment and upset would last for hours with Team Beer...Losing was never an option.
-Then Team Beer got back to Ed's and had some wine...And Pabst Blue Ribbon!
-Suddenly, losing wasn't so bad...Heck, 2nd place is pretty good!
-Dinner was a masterpiece...Chef Ed concocted a guacamole dip that was prize winning...Sous chef Dan was solid on the grill, firing up one of the best burgers I ever had.
-Norm complimented Ed on a wholesome dinner and appreciated a home cooked meal.
-All said, a perfect meal concluding a perfect day with great friends!
WHAT WE LEARNED
-Dan's desert island songs are "Changes" by Yes!?!...And "Clocks" by Coldplay.
-Scott's is "The Last Resort" by The Eagles.
-Norm...Anything by Styx.
-Ed chose "Karma Chameleon" by Culture Club.
-Rickey Henderson is hilarious's and articulates.
-Ed has to think of others while choosing music for the after party...Johnny Cash's "Hurt" played 5 times!?!
-Norm has VERY healthy bowels.
-You always get screwed when you order waffles at a pub for breakfast.
-Always be direct with a waitress when asking for ketchup or getting a refill of coffee.
-Funniest moment: When Norm asked the Canada Tour Guide if she likes seamen!?!
-An emotional Chairman Ed declared the 2010 EMC Classic "The best EMC Classic,ever."
What The Future Holds
After breakfast on Sunday, the executive board of the EMC took a long, thoughtful walk through the grounds of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa...Planning the future for the EMC Classic. Like the Canadian forefathers before, these dreamers and visionaries were laying the groundwork for growth and expansion. A Quebec event was talked about and possible additions of events...Even steroid testing was discussed.
In conclusion, this year's EMC was about quality not quantity...Certainly ONE FOR THE AGES!...Great friends getting together,reuniting and bonding...And hoisting a few F-in Pabst Blue Ribbons!
Here are but a few of this year's event highlights:
-The event opening ceremonies started with the traditional handing over of the EMC trophy (by the "Keeper Of The EMC", Scott) to Chairman Ed...And the transfer of the beer cooler, symbolizing good will between Quebec and Ontario, to Vice Chairman Dan.
-Norm had not arrived as yet...And could not be reached by phone; Ed becoming ever frustrated.
-Opening ceremonies continue with Ed being handed a king can of Pabst Blue Ribbon as a gesture of our appreciation for organizing the event.
-Ed calls Norm again, leaves a message and starts to bash Norm for being a potential no show.
-Dan and Scott continue to enjoy more...and more...and more Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.
-Ed continues to bad mouth Norm for not calling and even speculates that he went to an outdoor concert.
-Two and a half hours pass...Still no word from Norm...And after 12 Pabst Blue Ribbons and some wine...We forget that Norm has not arrived yet...And that we have to play golf in 45 minutes!
-Norm, shockingly, arrives a half hour before our 3:47 p.m. tee off time...Dan and Scott proclaim there was never a doubt on his arrival...Ed admits he thought Norm had let him down.
-3:47 p.m., the 2010 EMC Classic officially starts with Team Wine, Ed and Norm; against Team Beer, Dan and Scott!
-In a best ball format, Team Beer gets off to a four hole lead in the first four holes.
-Team Wine slowly fights back with ties and wins on the next several holes...Norm surprises everyone with his grit and concentration...Scott continues to falter with his inconsistent play.
-On the 18th hole, par4, Team Wine and Team Beer are tied and it's down to the wire...There is no tomorrow for either team.
-Norm makes a decent drive just off the fairway, 200 or so yards...Scott finally participates with a 250 yard drive right down the center of the fairway.
-Norm and Ed make acceptable 2nd shots, in play but well short of the green...Scott duffs his 2nd shot...25 yards up the middle...Dan, ever the optimist, tells me not to worry, he'll make up for it...Dan's 2nd shot goes to the right...deep in the woods.
-Team Wine, 3rd shot, Norm makes the clutch shot of the day...on the green, 12 yards past the hole...Dan and Scott, feeling the pressure, make a decent 3rd shot but short of the green...Team Wine is in control.
-Team Wine 2 putt with a respectable 6...Team Beer, their morale shot, could not pull off the miracle and lose on the final hole to the Team Wine upstarts!!!
-A shocked Dan, ever the voice of reason, said it best..."In sports, you never give up and...never know what can happen"...Sage words, my friend.
-Ed and Norm, classy as always, congratulated Team Beer for a match well played...The disappointment and upset would last for hours with Team Beer...Losing was never an option.
-Then Team Beer got back to Ed's and had some wine...And Pabst Blue Ribbon!
-Suddenly, losing wasn't so bad...Heck, 2nd place is pretty good!
-Dinner was a masterpiece...Chef Ed concocted a guacamole dip that was prize winning...Sous chef Dan was solid on the grill, firing up one of the best burgers I ever had.
-Norm complimented Ed on a wholesome dinner and appreciated a home cooked meal.
-All said, a perfect meal concluding a perfect day with great friends!
WHAT WE LEARNED
-Dan's desert island songs are "Changes" by Yes!?!...And "Clocks" by Coldplay.
-Scott's is "The Last Resort" by The Eagles.
-Norm...Anything by Styx.
-Ed chose "Karma Chameleon" by Culture Club.
-Rickey Henderson is hilarious's and articulates.
-Ed has to think of others while choosing music for the after party...Johnny Cash's "Hurt" played 5 times!?!
-Norm has VERY healthy bowels.
-You always get screwed when you order waffles at a pub for breakfast.
-Always be direct with a waitress when asking for ketchup or getting a refill of coffee.
-Funniest moment: When Norm asked the Canada Tour Guide if she likes seamen!?!
-An emotional Chairman Ed declared the 2010 EMC Classic "The best EMC Classic,ever."
What The Future Holds
After breakfast on Sunday, the executive board of the EMC took a long, thoughtful walk through the grounds of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa...Planning the future for the EMC Classic. Like the Canadian forefathers before, these dreamers and visionaries were laying the groundwork for growth and expansion. A Quebec event was talked about and possible additions of events...Even steroid testing was discussed.
In conclusion, this year's EMC was about quality not quantity...Certainly ONE FOR THE AGES!...Great friends getting together,reuniting and bonding...And hoisting a few F-in Pabst Blue Ribbons!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Randy Tieman and Montreal Canadien Fans-Pathologically Optimistic
THE MYTH
Randy Tieman,sportscaster on CTV Television in Montreal and talk show host on The Team 990 all-sports radio station is a "glass half full" kind of guy. I respect that he can take a nothing day and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile...Mary Tyler Moore would be proud! Unfortunately, Tieman's philosophy on life extends itself to Montreal's "provincial treasure"...The Montreal Canadiens...To the point where he is pathologically optimistic about this team. "I want to see what this team can do once everyone is healthy!", "Wait until Andrei Markov comes back", "We're early in the season", "We're only 10 games,20 games,40games into the season","The team will be well rested after the Olympic break...And should get better" were just a few of the optimistic chants often used by Tieman since the first game of the 2009-2010 season when Andrei Markov went down with a serious injury. Injuries befell the rest of the team all season long...And we never did see how this team could "perform and dazzle" if everyone was healthy. Now that the Canadiens have made the playoffs, the new mantra for Tieman is "Anything can happen in the playoffs...You never know who can get hot!". Tieman's battle cry is shared by another hopeful individual...THE MONTREAL CANADIEN FAN(ATIC)!
Montreal Canadien fans have the same positive outlook as Tieman, only their blind optimism is focused on one thing and one thing ONLY...The hockey team. A Montreal Canadien fan can be best descibed as schizophrenic...Showing a love for this team and its players(see:Alex Kovalev,Ottawa Senators) so powerful it can manifest itself into rage...And hate (see: Saku Koivu,Anaheim Ducks). With Canadien fans, the team comes first, before any individual player or coach. If that player or coach becomes the unfortunate target of their frustrations, not even the mighty Bob Gainey can save them from the boo birds "hiding in the shadows" ...And it is most certain that their days in Montreal are numbered. Through the years, players come and go but the team's past(see:1943-1979 seasons) glories and success live on, as if Montreal fans believe a winning season, a playoff run and Stanley Cup win is preordained and part of the fans birth right!
THE TRUTH
RANDY TIEMAN,
-Healthy or not,I think it's self evident that the Canadiens are what they are...MEDIOCRE.
-No team is ever completely healthy...So don't hold you breath.
-This is a team assembled to play just well enough to make the playoffs and appease the fan base.
-It seems that very little was planned for the FUTURE(see:Scott Gomez)of the team(see:Capologist)
-The forwards are too small(see:The Lollypop Guild in The Wizard Of Oz)and cannot compete five on five.
-The defense(Spacek,Gill,Mara,O'Byrne,Bergeron,Hamrlik)is weak and non imposing.
-Andrei Markov is not as great as advertised.
-Halak and Price are future stars;unfortunately,the "goaltender controversy" has done little for either ones confidence.
-Is making the playoffs really good for the city of Montreal?(see:Montreal Canadien Fans Riot,2008,1993,1986).
-Let's hope the Canadiens win at least one game against the Washington Capitals so Nos Glorieux can lose the series on THE ROAD.
-There's nothing wrong with OPTIMISM for, the moment...But over a prolonged period, with all we've seen of this team; all that we hold as self evident...Who's fooling who?
THE MONTREAL CANADIEN FAN(ATIC),
-Singing the "Na,na,na,goodbye" song in the first period of any game is bad timing,bad taste...And embarrassing.
-Singing the "Na,na,na,goodbye" song on April the 10th, 2010 with 2 minutes remaining in a tie game against the Leafs is embarrassing.
-Squeeking into the playoffs with 1 point and giving Nos Glorieux a standing ovation for their "achievement" is embarrassing.
-Booing Carey Price in a Canadiens loss,regadless of his strong performance is embarrassing.
-Booing the American anthem is tasteless, ignorant and...embarrassing.
-Believing that the ghosts of the Montreal Forum exist is...silly.
-And embarrassing!
-Believing that wearing the CH gives the players "secret powers" to the past is...silly.
-Rioting in the streets of Montreal after a win or a loss in the playoffs takes away from the thrill or agony of the moment...It just cheapens our belief system...And it's damn embarrassing!
-French Canadian stars Maurice Richard, Jean Beliveau and Guy Lafleur have long retired, so stop searching for the next "chosen one".
-As long as management keeps searching for a French Canadian star, the future of this team will always be compromised.
-Thinking back at how proud and efficient and victorious this storied franchise once was makes us all think...Man were Canadien fans spoiled.
-Today, fans grasp at anything that gives them a tiny, minute taste of past glories; an 8th place finish in their conference; a mediocre French Canadian player; Alex Kovalev and his resemblance in style(and hair) to The Flower...HOW FAR THE MIGHTY (FANS) HAVE FALLEN.
Randy Tieman,sportscaster on CTV Television in Montreal and talk show host on The Team 990 all-sports radio station is a "glass half full" kind of guy. I respect that he can take a nothing day and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile...Mary Tyler Moore would be proud! Unfortunately, Tieman's philosophy on life extends itself to Montreal's "provincial treasure"...The Montreal Canadiens...To the point where he is pathologically optimistic about this team. "I want to see what this team can do once everyone is healthy!", "Wait until Andrei Markov comes back", "We're early in the season", "We're only 10 games,20 games,40games into the season","The team will be well rested after the Olympic break...And should get better" were just a few of the optimistic chants often used by Tieman since the first game of the 2009-2010 season when Andrei Markov went down with a serious injury. Injuries befell the rest of the team all season long...And we never did see how this team could "perform and dazzle" if everyone was healthy. Now that the Canadiens have made the playoffs, the new mantra for Tieman is "Anything can happen in the playoffs...You never know who can get hot!". Tieman's battle cry is shared by another hopeful individual...THE MONTREAL CANADIEN FAN(ATIC)!
Montreal Canadien fans have the same positive outlook as Tieman, only their blind optimism is focused on one thing and one thing ONLY...The hockey team. A Montreal Canadien fan can be best descibed as schizophrenic...Showing a love for this team and its players(see:Alex Kovalev,Ottawa Senators) so powerful it can manifest itself into rage...And hate (see: Saku Koivu,Anaheim Ducks). With Canadien fans, the team comes first, before any individual player or coach. If that player or coach becomes the unfortunate target of their frustrations, not even the mighty Bob Gainey can save them from the boo birds "hiding in the shadows" ...And it is most certain that their days in Montreal are numbered. Through the years, players come and go but the team's past(see:1943-1979 seasons) glories and success live on, as if Montreal fans believe a winning season, a playoff run and Stanley Cup win is preordained and part of the fans birth right!
THE TRUTH
RANDY TIEMAN,
-Healthy or not,I think it's self evident that the Canadiens are what they are...MEDIOCRE.
-No team is ever completely healthy...So don't hold you breath.
-This is a team assembled to play just well enough to make the playoffs and appease the fan base.
-It seems that very little was planned for the FUTURE(see:Scott Gomez)of the team(see:Capologist)
-The forwards are too small(see:The Lollypop Guild in The Wizard Of Oz)and cannot compete five on five.
-The defense(Spacek,Gill,Mara,O'Byrne,Bergeron,Hamrlik)is weak and non imposing.
-Andrei Markov is not as great as advertised.
-Halak and Price are future stars;unfortunately,the "goaltender controversy" has done little for either ones confidence.
-Is making the playoffs really good for the city of Montreal?(see:Montreal Canadien Fans Riot,2008,1993,1986).
-Let's hope the Canadiens win at least one game against the Washington Capitals so Nos Glorieux can lose the series on THE ROAD.
-There's nothing wrong with OPTIMISM for, the moment...But over a prolonged period, with all we've seen of this team; all that we hold as self evident...Who's fooling who?
THE MONTREAL CANADIEN FAN(ATIC),
-Singing the "Na,na,na,goodbye" song in the first period of any game is bad timing,bad taste...And embarrassing.
-Singing the "Na,na,na,goodbye" song on April the 10th, 2010 with 2 minutes remaining in a tie game against the Leafs is embarrassing.
-Squeeking into the playoffs with 1 point and giving Nos Glorieux a standing ovation for their "achievement" is embarrassing.
-Booing Carey Price in a Canadiens loss,regadless of his strong performance is embarrassing.
-Booing the American anthem is tasteless, ignorant and...embarrassing.
-Believing that the ghosts of the Montreal Forum exist is...silly.
-And embarrassing!
-Believing that wearing the CH gives the players "secret powers" to the past is...silly.
-Rioting in the streets of Montreal after a win or a loss in the playoffs takes away from the thrill or agony of the moment...It just cheapens our belief system...And it's damn embarrassing!
-French Canadian stars Maurice Richard, Jean Beliveau and Guy Lafleur have long retired, so stop searching for the next "chosen one".
-As long as management keeps searching for a French Canadian star, the future of this team will always be compromised.
-Thinking back at how proud and efficient and victorious this storied franchise once was makes us all think...Man were Canadien fans spoiled.
-Today, fans grasp at anything that gives them a tiny, minute taste of past glories; an 8th place finish in their conference; a mediocre French Canadian player; Alex Kovalev and his resemblance in style(and hair) to The Flower...HOW FAR THE MIGHTY (FANS) HAVE FALLEN.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
The Team 990 - Radio Chaos!
Montreal is rich with french and (some) english radio stations that specialize in formats such as talk shows, news and a vast variety of music. There is only one station whose format is all sports, all day long - The Team 990. Since its incarnation on May the 7th, 2001, "The Team" has strived to give Montrealers quality sports talk radio, be it hockey, baseball, football etc. Through the years, "The Team's" radio schedule has gradually shifted from ESPN shows such as Dan Patrick and Colin Cowherd, intermingled with a few local shows...to a full daily lineup of all local talent and programming. By design, the vision and goals of "The Team" were probably well thought out with this natural progression of a Montreal themed sports station. The powers that be, through unfortunate circumstance and complacency, have lost focus in their radio station. Check no further than their web page...the style and format has remained unchanged for years. Some of the shows promoted on the site, like P On Sports and Totally Broad, have been off the air for years;The Race Line Radio e-mail does not exist;Blogs are so old that dust is collecting on the last updated heading (2007). The web page is not my primary concern but it is a sign...a sign of an operation in CHAOS! After nine years, The Team 990 seems to be slipping into a state a mediocrity ...and here is why.
INABILITY TO GAIN BROADCAST RIGHTS OF THE CANADIENS AND ALOUETTES
Unfortunately, to have a true Montreal stamp on all things sports, you must have the exclusivity to what is synonymous with Montreal...and life...The Montreal Canadiens and their radio broadcast rights. How can you be a true all sports station and, after nine years, not have the play by play broadcast of the Canadiens? Does CJAD, (the rights holder)a talk radio station, have such a stranglehold on the rights? This should have been priority number one at CKGM, from day one. The other major sports team in Montreal, the CFL's Montreal Alouettes, are also broadcast on...CJAD. The Team has the broadcast rights to...The Quebec Major Junior Leagues Juniors de Montreal and the MLS's Montreal Impact...the consolation prizes.
What is sad in a pathetic sort of way is there are nights when 990 will have their Canadiens pre-game show...then start broadcasting a Juniors game. Meanwhile, the listeners have switched stations (CJAD) for the Canadiens game. How long can a radio station survive covering a major sports team, all the while remaining on the fringe?
The broadcast rights of the Canadiens and Alouettes notwithstanding,what gets lost in the mix is the exclusive interviews that CJAD inherits with their broadcast rights. The Team ends up with generic media scrum interviews and tidbits of gossip.
To be fair, 990 did have the broadcast rights of the Montreal Expos and did a phenominal job of covering the team. We all know what happened to the Expos in '04 and in many ways, 990 has never recovered from the huge gap that their exodus created...not to mention the hole in the summer schedule.
If The Team fails to get these rights within a year or two, 990 on the a.m. dial may be playing the tunes of Slim Whitman and Conway Twitty...country music being the prerequisite in all format changes.
MEDIOCRE BROADCASTERS AND TALENT
Yes, The Team has some talented and unique broadcasters - Mitch Melnick, Elliott Price, Denis Casavant and Rod Francis - all capable of finding work in any market. They all have one thing in common...radio expertise and savvy. At The Team, this is the exception rather than the rule. Many of the on-air talent is not "ready for prime time" or, in the case of one broadcaster, just plain obnoxious. Let's rate the "other" main players:
- Sean Starr: Talks a good game, if you can understand him. For some reason, Starr feels that talking faster means you are more interesting. Talking fast usually leads to tripping over words and mispronounciations. Maybe it's those darn vowels that give him the fits. Whatever it is, I get frustrated just hearing his voice...and lose focus as a listener. Starr has some interesting tidbits on statistics but he should lose the overused cliches like, "the sexy pick is"...pleeease!
Grade: C-
- Tony Marinaro:
Ted Tevan want to be, minus a personality. A Monday Morning Quarterback if there ever was one. "I predicted that last week" is a common line used by Tony, as if his career is going to explode because he was right about a win or loss prediction. Fine...bravo Tony! You're a genius. A prediction gone wrong? Suddenly he turns into The Fonz (I was wwwrrron...no, can't say it). Canadiens win, get ready for the Stanley Cup; they lose, it becomes personal with Marinaro. He picks on players with a cruelty that borders on immature. At the beginning of the Canadiens' season, Scott Gomez was struggling with his play. For weeks, Marinaro had a schtick where he'd call out: Scoott! Gomez! Come here boy! Where are you!? There's the goal! (Like calling for a dog) The routine was borderline racist and halted suddenly (mamagement?). There is nothing wrong with being controversial and edgy but when the motives of the person are so mean spirited and loathsome; selfish and egotistical;interrupting and talking over people...you know Tony Marinaro cares only about Tony Marinaro...everyone else is a threat to his career. Why so insecure, Tony?
Grade:D-
Sean Campbell: Campbell knows his sports and can talk...and talk...and talk. Man, can he talk. With Campbell, a sentence can turn into a chapter very quickly. When a person over informs, it puts the listener into a sort of trance and the zone out occurs. You're listening but...not really. All you can think of is "Man, when is he going to end his 'sentence'"? Advise? Condense, shorten...stop talking. Hope he changes because Campbell is actually an amazing talent...But sometimes less (talk) is more.
Grade:C+
Andie Bennett: Seems like a sweet person but maybe her talents are best served in another medium. Mainstream sport is not her forte. Bennett covers the Canadiens practices and does the sports updates on Melnick's afternoon drive show. She asks a lot of questions about sports but doesn't have much of an opinion or interesting thoughts. After seven years on the job, I don't get the impression that she has improved on her sports knowledge. Research some sports history or watch the DVD on the Canada/Russia '72 series...or something. Give the listener something interesting. But please, don't tell me that Andie Bennett is your most qualified person to cover THE MONTREAL CANADIENS. Once again, the listeners are being cheated of quality sports coverage.
Grade:D-
Personality:A
LEGITIMATE BUSINESS OR TAX RIGHT OFF?
Does CTV GlobeMedia see this radio station as a viable money generator or just a tax exemption? CTV has owned The Team 990 since June of '07 and in that time, there is no evidence of taking 990 to the next level as a broadcaster. Commercials for events and shows are aired weeks after the fact; sound clips and computer noises spontaneously come on in the middle of broadcasts; the crappy web site; on air talent showing no signs of broadcast improvement or correcting bad habits, such as using "words" like ie.: "Uh", "ummm", "like" and "I mean" between real words. Is anyone coaching these people or is 990 happy with the status quo? The record shows yes...yes indeed.
INABILITY TO GAIN BROADCAST RIGHTS OF THE CANADIENS AND ALOUETTES
Unfortunately, to have a true Montreal stamp on all things sports, you must have the exclusivity to what is synonymous with Montreal...and life...The Montreal Canadiens and their radio broadcast rights. How can you be a true all sports station and, after nine years, not have the play by play broadcast of the Canadiens? Does CJAD, (the rights holder)a talk radio station, have such a stranglehold on the rights? This should have been priority number one at CKGM, from day one. The other major sports team in Montreal, the CFL's Montreal Alouettes, are also broadcast on...CJAD. The Team has the broadcast rights to...The Quebec Major Junior Leagues Juniors de Montreal and the MLS's Montreal Impact...the consolation prizes.
What is sad in a pathetic sort of way is there are nights when 990 will have their Canadiens pre-game show...then start broadcasting a Juniors game. Meanwhile, the listeners have switched stations (CJAD) for the Canadiens game. How long can a radio station survive covering a major sports team, all the while remaining on the fringe?
The broadcast rights of the Canadiens and Alouettes notwithstanding,what gets lost in the mix is the exclusive interviews that CJAD inherits with their broadcast rights. The Team ends up with generic media scrum interviews and tidbits of gossip.
To be fair, 990 did have the broadcast rights of the Montreal Expos and did a phenominal job of covering the team. We all know what happened to the Expos in '04 and in many ways, 990 has never recovered from the huge gap that their exodus created...not to mention the hole in the summer schedule.
If The Team fails to get these rights within a year or two, 990 on the a.m. dial may be playing the tunes of Slim Whitman and Conway Twitty...country music being the prerequisite in all format changes.
MEDIOCRE BROADCASTERS AND TALENT
Yes, The Team has some talented and unique broadcasters - Mitch Melnick, Elliott Price, Denis Casavant and Rod Francis - all capable of finding work in any market. They all have one thing in common...radio expertise and savvy. At The Team, this is the exception rather than the rule. Many of the on-air talent is not "ready for prime time" or, in the case of one broadcaster, just plain obnoxious. Let's rate the "other" main players:
- Sean Starr: Talks a good game, if you can understand him. For some reason, Starr feels that talking faster means you are more interesting. Talking fast usually leads to tripping over words and mispronounciations. Maybe it's those darn vowels that give him the fits. Whatever it is, I get frustrated just hearing his voice...and lose focus as a listener. Starr has some interesting tidbits on statistics but he should lose the overused cliches like, "the sexy pick is"...pleeease!
Grade: C-
- Tony Marinaro:
Ted Tevan want to be, minus a personality. A Monday Morning Quarterback if there ever was one. "I predicted that last week" is a common line used by Tony, as if his career is going to explode because he was right about a win or loss prediction. Fine...bravo Tony! You're a genius. A prediction gone wrong? Suddenly he turns into The Fonz (I was wwwrrron...no, can't say it). Canadiens win, get ready for the Stanley Cup; they lose, it becomes personal with Marinaro. He picks on players with a cruelty that borders on immature. At the beginning of the Canadiens' season, Scott Gomez was struggling with his play. For weeks, Marinaro had a schtick where he'd call out: Scoott! Gomez! Come here boy! Where are you!? There's the goal! (Like calling for a dog) The routine was borderline racist and halted suddenly (mamagement?). There is nothing wrong with being controversial and edgy but when the motives of the person are so mean spirited and loathsome; selfish and egotistical;interrupting and talking over people...you know Tony Marinaro cares only about Tony Marinaro...everyone else is a threat to his career. Why so insecure, Tony?
Grade:D-
Sean Campbell: Campbell knows his sports and can talk...and talk...and talk. Man, can he talk. With Campbell, a sentence can turn into a chapter very quickly. When a person over informs, it puts the listener into a sort of trance and the zone out occurs. You're listening but...not really. All you can think of is "Man, when is he going to end his 'sentence'"? Advise? Condense, shorten...stop talking. Hope he changes because Campbell is actually an amazing talent...But sometimes less (talk) is more.
Grade:C+
Andie Bennett: Seems like a sweet person but maybe her talents are best served in another medium. Mainstream sport is not her forte. Bennett covers the Canadiens practices and does the sports updates on Melnick's afternoon drive show. She asks a lot of questions about sports but doesn't have much of an opinion or interesting thoughts. After seven years on the job, I don't get the impression that she has improved on her sports knowledge. Research some sports history or watch the DVD on the Canada/Russia '72 series...or something. Give the listener something interesting. But please, don't tell me that Andie Bennett is your most qualified person to cover THE MONTREAL CANADIENS. Once again, the listeners are being cheated of quality sports coverage.
Grade:D-
Personality:A
LEGITIMATE BUSINESS OR TAX RIGHT OFF?
Does CTV GlobeMedia see this radio station as a viable money generator or just a tax exemption? CTV has owned The Team 990 since June of '07 and in that time, there is no evidence of taking 990 to the next level as a broadcaster. Commercials for events and shows are aired weeks after the fact; sound clips and computer noises spontaneously come on in the middle of broadcasts; the crappy web site; on air talent showing no signs of broadcast improvement or correcting bad habits, such as using "words" like ie.: "Uh", "ummm", "like" and "I mean" between real words. Is anyone coaching these people or is 990 happy with the status quo? The record shows yes...yes indeed.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Message To NASCAR....The Exodus Has Begun!
Week after week,we hope that we witness a competitive race on the NASCAR circuit...This is why we,as fans,refuse to abandon this sport...Week after week,NASCAR,Fox and the track disappoints the fans...In the last five years,NASCAR Inc. has raked in the money,assuming the sport would sell itself...Throughout this period,they forgot one important goal;to keep the sport ENTERTAINING...The "trading paint" ads are an illusion used to keep us all thinking "This will be the race that brings us back as fans"...A desperate plea by a very out of touch NASCAR.You know what NASCAR...The fans are getting RESTLESS...The exodus has begun but it is not too late for REDEMPTION!
Friday, February 12, 2010
CTV and Their Happy Place
Today was the last day of the exhaustive Torch Relay culminating with all day coverage of the run by CTV,the rights holder of the 2010 Olympics.CTV went on the air at 5:55,with footage of the first torch bearer crossing the Lions Gate Bridge and planned to continue covering the event until the torch reached its final destination at B.C. Place...And the network did just what they promised.CTV broke its coverage to report that a luger had been seriously hurt during a qualifying run in Whistler,by virtually flying off the track at one of the high speed corners.Maybe 5 minutes of air time was dedicated to the news...Then CTV continued its coverage of HAPPY LAND and the torch relay.What CTV forgot to mention is that a tragedy had occurred at the bobsled/luge track in Whistler...Nodar Kumaratashvili had died of his injuries...Breaking news on American news networks(MSNBC,CNN)but ignored by CTV,the primary Olympic broadcaster.I understand that the show must go on but when viewers are watching "Joe Smith" run with the torch,knowing full well that an Olympic tragedy had occured before the games could get started,and CTV hosts come on air with those happy faces...You couldn't help but feel a little sick to your stomach.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Gainey QUITS As Canadiens G.M.? I Think Not!
The Canadiens press conference on February 8th was nothing but corporate
spin...Bob Gainey claimed he was tired of doing the job and had decided in December that he was not continuing as general manager of the Montreal Canadiens...With 3 months left in the season!In July,2009,Gainey changed the face of this team with ELEVEN new player signings.He seemed optimistic with the teams future.Of course the signings proved to be average at best and questionable...Why so many huge contracts,for so many years,for so many average players?Gainey panicked at the thought of not being able to sign anyone...And this mediocre team,with NO cap room,is the end result.Why would Gainey leave his post when his work was clearly never finished.Bob Gainey never quit anything in his life.
...Gainey read from his notes because nothing he said was from
the HEART...He was forced out as G.M. and the most delicate transition
the Canadiens' brass could invent to save face for the Canadiens' and
Gainey was for Bob to stay on as an assistant to Pierre Gauthier for the
remainder of the season...Yet he claimed in the ensuing weeks that he will be watching the Olympics and relaxing...If Gainey's heart is truly not into his
work,then why is he still being entrusted to make vital decisions for
the organization...The truth is that Gainey no longer works for the Canadiens and will be as visible as Howard Hughes was.
spin...Bob Gainey claimed he was tired of doing the job and had decided in December that he was not continuing as general manager of the Montreal Canadiens...With 3 months left in the season!In July,2009,Gainey changed the face of this team with ELEVEN new player signings.He seemed optimistic with the teams future.Of course the signings proved to be average at best and questionable...Why so many huge contracts,for so many years,for so many average players?Gainey panicked at the thought of not being able to sign anyone...And this mediocre team,with NO cap room,is the end result.Why would Gainey leave his post when his work was clearly never finished.Bob Gainey never quit anything in his life.
...Gainey read from his notes because nothing he said was from
the HEART...He was forced out as G.M. and the most delicate transition
the Canadiens' brass could invent to save face for the Canadiens' and
Gainey was for Bob to stay on as an assistant to Pierre Gauthier for the
remainder of the season...Yet he claimed in the ensuing weeks that he will be watching the Olympics and relaxing...If Gainey's heart is truly not into his
work,then why is he still being entrusted to make vital decisions for
the organization...The truth is that Gainey no longer works for the Canadiens and will be as visible as Howard Hughes was.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Quote Of The Day...Free Speech
It is by the goodness of God that in our country we have those unspeakable precious things: freedom of speech, freedom of conscience, and the prudence never to practice either of them.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain
Monday, December 8, 2008
Forget the Diet and Eat on Your Own Terms
Diet is a strange word. The mere mention of the word strikes fear into the minds of many due to its negative meaning. Negative, you say? A diet to most people means discipline and dedication. We have enough pressure in our lives to commit ourselves to a daily grind of eating properly seven days a week, right? Well, you don't have to. Proper eating habits stem from making the right choices in what we decide to eat, as well as the portions throughout the day. Counting calories and weighing portions are temporary ways to lose weight but ultimately fail in what should be your goal: To be healthy on the inside and out...for life. Strict diets are destined to fail. Diets are designed to give people "instant" results in a world of consumers that demand an immediate cure for their food consumption problem. Consequently, a human being is wired for variety and spontaneity. Diets give you neither. When people eventually get bored with the diet, they resort back to the same old habits of overeating the wrong foods.
The key to eating well and being a healthy person is to change your behavior. Don't get intimidated with change. Change is growth and with growth we reach our goals and as a result, happiness. The great thing about my method is that you can do this in baby steps. Good health does not happen over night; what is important are the results you'll see after one week, one month and if you follow the program, the rest of your life. Here are the keys to changing your eating habits which in turn will change your life.
(1) CUT DOWN ON YOUR PORTIONS: Portion size of our meals affects calorie intake. Start week one by cutting down to 3/4 of your normal intake and work your way down in the ensuing weeks until you get to the point where you're satisfied yet not too full. You NEVER want to feel full after a meal; it means that you overate. With time your stomach will adjust to the portion size. Just be patient.
(2) CUT DOWN ON THE SWEETS AND JUNK FOOD: Ice cream, cake, cookies, chips, ummm. No need to stop eating any of these but if you tend to gorge on the sweets or chips, cutting down is imperative to your goals. I can't stress enough how fattening ice cream is. If you crave ice cream, have some but not your normal serving of the Ben and Jerry's pint. If you must have some, cut down to a 1/4 serving and replace your emptiness with a cookie or two. With these controlled portions, you will find yourself not wanting as much of whatever your sweet weakness is. What is important to remember is that you don't have to go without. You just need to control the tendency to gorge or have that piece of cake EVERY night while Seinfeld is on. If you are a chip addict, buy the small bag of chips. This will curb your need to attack that large bag of salt and vinegar chips. Economically, it's a little more expensive but remember, you you are saving by cutting down on your overall portions. Of utmost importance is whatever your weakness, it's better to small portion than to plan a gorge day and eat 2000 calories in one sitting. Gorge days are not reward days for you. This type of reward process will ruin your eating goals and allow you to regress to your old habits in time.
(3) FRUITS AND VEGETABLES - A WAY OF LIFE: Have some fruits and vegetables every day. If you don't have the patience to eat fruit, buy a bottle of fruit juice (the natural fruit kind) and a carton of orange juice, every week. Make sure to drink a glass every day, so if you did have dessert at least you know you had your glass of nutrition for the day. Vegetables, I know , can be time consuming to prepare...and boring to eat. Grocery stores offer a giant selection of prepared raw veggies that are ready to eat. Vegetables can taste bland to some, so if you must, use a dip, in SMALL portions. The vegetables should compliment your (small) T-Bone steak just fine.
That's it for now. I said baby steps and this is not too overwhelming. It's just a matter of you changing your habits. The first week will be difficult because you will have to conscientiously think of your game plan as you go. Give it time and it will come natural. The results will happen.
You will also notice that I did not mention exercise in this lifestyle change. Don't worry about that for now. You'll have enough on your plate (pardon the pun) with the food lifestyle change. Exercise is vital to health but the important goal at the moment is your eating habit and what you put in your body. The energy and positive outlook essential for the urge to do healthy activities will come. I will be discussing the exercise aspect in future articles. Remember the word PATIENCE. Nothing worth doing right happens with immediate results. You can and will succeed in time. Good luck and remember that you are not alone.
The key to eating well and being a healthy person is to change your behavior. Don't get intimidated with change. Change is growth and with growth we reach our goals and as a result, happiness. The great thing about my method is that you can do this in baby steps. Good health does not happen over night; what is important are the results you'll see after one week, one month and if you follow the program, the rest of your life. Here are the keys to changing your eating habits which in turn will change your life.
(1) CUT DOWN ON YOUR PORTIONS: Portion size of our meals affects calorie intake. Start week one by cutting down to 3/4 of your normal intake and work your way down in the ensuing weeks until you get to the point where you're satisfied yet not too full. You NEVER want to feel full after a meal; it means that you overate. With time your stomach will adjust to the portion size. Just be patient.
(2) CUT DOWN ON THE SWEETS AND JUNK FOOD: Ice cream, cake, cookies, chips, ummm. No need to stop eating any of these but if you tend to gorge on the sweets or chips, cutting down is imperative to your goals. I can't stress enough how fattening ice cream is. If you crave ice cream, have some but not your normal serving of the Ben and Jerry's pint. If you must have some, cut down to a 1/4 serving and replace your emptiness with a cookie or two. With these controlled portions, you will find yourself not wanting as much of whatever your sweet weakness is. What is important to remember is that you don't have to go without. You just need to control the tendency to gorge or have that piece of cake EVERY night while Seinfeld is on. If you are a chip addict, buy the small bag of chips. This will curb your need to attack that large bag of salt and vinegar chips. Economically, it's a little more expensive but remember, you you are saving by cutting down on your overall portions. Of utmost importance is whatever your weakness, it's better to small portion than to plan a gorge day and eat 2000 calories in one sitting. Gorge days are not reward days for you. This type of reward process will ruin your eating goals and allow you to regress to your old habits in time.
(3) FRUITS AND VEGETABLES - A WAY OF LIFE: Have some fruits and vegetables every day. If you don't have the patience to eat fruit, buy a bottle of fruit juice (the natural fruit kind) and a carton of orange juice, every week. Make sure to drink a glass every day, so if you did have dessert at least you know you had your glass of nutrition for the day. Vegetables, I know , can be time consuming to prepare...and boring to eat. Grocery stores offer a giant selection of prepared raw veggies that are ready to eat. Vegetables can taste bland to some, so if you must, use a dip, in SMALL portions. The vegetables should compliment your (small) T-Bone steak just fine.
That's it for now. I said baby steps and this is not too overwhelming. It's just a matter of you changing your habits. The first week will be difficult because you will have to conscientiously think of your game plan as you go. Give it time and it will come natural. The results will happen.
You will also notice that I did not mention exercise in this lifestyle change. Don't worry about that for now. You'll have enough on your plate (pardon the pun) with the food lifestyle change. Exercise is vital to health but the important goal at the moment is your eating habit and what you put in your body. The energy and positive outlook essential for the urge to do healthy activities will come. I will be discussing the exercise aspect in future articles. Remember the word PATIENCE. Nothing worth doing right happens with immediate results. You can and will succeed in time. Good luck and remember that you are not alone.
Quote Of The Day...
My doctor told me to stop having intimate dinners for four, unless there are three other people.
Orson Welles
Orson Welles
Friday, December 5, 2008
Quote Of The Day...
I'm only interested in heavy metal when it's me who's playing it. I suppose it's a bit like smelling your own farts.
John Entwistle
John Entwistle
Monday, December 1, 2008
The 10 Best T.V. Shows Of All Time - Number 3 - St. Elsewhere
St.Elsewhere,the television drama,has been off the air for more than 20 years. In the time since, it has pretty much been off the minds of most people. What is forgotten is that St. Elsewhere, from 1982 until 1988, was the best show on television. Unfortunately, most people new the show existed but did not watch. What was the reason? Too dark? Too edgy? Too much reality? Too clever? Yes, yes, yes and yes. In the 1980's people were craving light entertainment in the yuppie driven, materialistic decade. Heavy dramas had there place but in moderation. Dramas like Hill Street Blues and St. Elsewhere were deemed too pretentious by audiences. The story lines were drawn out over weeks (sometimes months) and most of the audience did not have the patience nor the attention span to follow the series. Couple this with St. Elsewhere's ever changing time slot, it never had a chance to find a large audience. The 1980's were the era of comedies like Family Ties, Cheers, Newhart, The Cosby Show and...Alf. T.J Hooker became a hit and if you wanted drama there were the prime time soap operas like Dallas, Falcon Crest or Dynasty. If that was not enough entertainment, you could watch The Love Boat or Fantasy Island. WOW. Rarely do people speak of St. Elsewhere when asked about '80's television. Well, I never forgot.Unfortunately, St. Elsewhere was created in the wrong decade. If this was a series created in the mid '90's when reality and television were melding together, the series would have been remembered differently. Of course, critics loved St.Elsewhere. It won numerous Emmys for acting, writing and directing. Unfortunately, critics could not convince the masses that this was a show worth watching. Those who did follow the show religiously know what the critics new. That we were being exposed to a television classic that ages gracefully and does not seem dated, even today. I never forgot.
I never forgot Dr. Donald Westphall's (Ed Flanders) compassion and care towards patients and staff alike. Even though his personal life was in constant turmoil, Westphall's dedication to his profession and love for St. Eligius gave him strength and hope. When Westphall decides he's had enough of the corporate St. Eligius, he resigns on his own terms with his own personal touch; by mooning Dr. Gideon and telling him to "kiss his ***". Ironically, and sadly, the character that hoped and believed in a better world did not carry over into Flanders' personal life. Flanders would take his own life in 1995 after a battle with depression and personal conflict.
I never forgot Dr. Mark Craig, the brutish hot tempered heart surgeon that put fear in the hearts of interns and nurses at St. Eligius. Underneath the rough exterior of this brilliant surgeon lay an insecure yet caring man who secretly yearned for the ability to show compassion towards his patients. Craig and Westphall were polar opposites. When the two characters interacted, it created television magic.
I never forgot Dr. Victor Ehrlich (Ed Begley Jr.) and his impulse to blurt out whatever stupidity was on his mind. The "father/son" interactions between him and Dr. Craig was comedic and heartwarming all at once. Dr. Craig bellowing "EHRLICH! For the love of Mike!" became a regular feature of the show. What the characters represent is a role reversal for Craig; him becoming his own father, with all his perfectionism and sarcasm directed at his son and Ehrlich becoming the young Dr. Craig with all his perceived deficiencies and never living up to his fathers high expectations.
I never forgot when Doctors Westphall, Craig and Auschlander (Norman Lloyd) walked into Cheers (yes, the television Cheers) for a beer and were served by the abrasive Carla. This was one of the first times two television shows crossed over into one show.
I never forgot the "Time Heals" episodes where the story of St. Eligius and its main characters go back in time to the humble beginnings of the hospital. The story centers around Father Joseph McCabe and his dream of opening a hospital for the less privileged. We see a young rebellious Donald Westphall being disciplined and mentored by McCabe, who ultimately paves the way for Westphall's passion to help others. The use of black and white in these flashback episodes adds authenticity to the period (1930's) and genuine feel that the viewer is part of the memory.
I never forgot the controversial subject matter the producers dealt with. St. Elsewhere was the first series to have a character acquire AIDS ( Dr. Caldwell) and to expose the disease as not just homosexual related. Rape, drug addiction and prejudice were all subjects written in the story lines at a time when such topics were not commonly written into scripts.
Finally, I never forgot the final episode of St. Elsewhere. In the final surreal scene of the series, we see Donald Westphall arriving home from a long day work (on the construction site!?). Westphall asks "dad", Daniel Auschlander how his autistic son Tommy has been. Auschlander explains that the boy occupies all his time by staring into a snow globe of St. Eligius. "What does he think about?", asks Westphall, thinking out loud. The viewer is then shown a close up of the snow globe, symbolizing that the events of St. Eligius were all deep in Tommies imagination. Many fans were disappointed by this ending. Many felt that there was no closure to it. Whatever the fans main criticism was, give credit to the producers for ending the series the way every episode was conceived: To keep us wondering what will happen next...and wanting more!
The Artie Lange Show Featuring Howard Stern!
This morning(December 2nd) Artie Lange, of the Howard Stern Show, called in sick...again. Artie calling in sick has become about as regular as a Sarah Palin interview gaff(You Tube: Sarah Palin-Turkey). If Artie was legitimately sick, I sympathize with the guy. Maybe he is suffering from exhaustion after the book signing tour and the interviewing juggernaut that goes with a best selling novel. Maybe he is finding it difficult to juggle the radio show, a stand up comedy act and withdrawing from drugs. Or, worst case scenario, back on the drugs and/or booze. What made Artie's absence stand out this time was the simple fact that for the first time in a while, The Howard Stern Show was better with less.
For the longest period, I felt that listening to Howard had become like listening to a radio show by committee. Howard, with the aide of Artie and Robin Quivers has become a shadow of his former radio personality. For years Stern had suffered through countless interruptions brought on by the opinionated Robin. While Howard has always valued Robin's contribution to the show, you could hear by his tone that talking over "The King Of All Media" during his radio time was frustrating him. Howard being Howard, bit his tongue and carried on like a professional. When the show had just Howard and Robin as the main voice, listening was bearable because the content was always unique...and yes there was Jackie Martling, writing jokes and laughing inappropriately at some tragic news story. Oh yes, and he didn't speak unless spoken to.
Today's show made me miss Jackie. No, he didn't tell great stories or seem particularily interesting. I miss his laugh and the fact that on The Howard Stern Show, less is more. There is one voice too many on the show and that loud voice is Artie. Artie has become the center of attention on this top rated show. Not by natural circumstances but by way of Artie selling himself in all his narcissistic ways. Artie's favourite subject is Artie. Whatever the topic of the moment, the conversation seems to always come back around to an Artie story or in relation to how he was involved. For example, Howard would be talking about his bachelor party and Artie chimes in with a good five minutes on himself and how it was difficult to see other people drinking at the party. WHAAAH! His habit of interrupting the show with his long winded,self promoting diatribe has ruined the flow of what once was a great radio show. Enough Artie! It's time to start listening to what Howard, the star of the show, has to say. None of these obnoxious, loud attempts at being funny are working for you any more. It's time for Howard to realize (and I think he does) that the show is much better without Artie. Sometimes...less is more!
For the longest period, I felt that listening to Howard had become like listening to a radio show by committee. Howard, with the aide of Artie and Robin Quivers has become a shadow of his former radio personality. For years Stern had suffered through countless interruptions brought on by the opinionated Robin. While Howard has always valued Robin's contribution to the show, you could hear by his tone that talking over "The King Of All Media" during his radio time was frustrating him. Howard being Howard, bit his tongue and carried on like a professional. When the show had just Howard and Robin as the main voice, listening was bearable because the content was always unique...and yes there was Jackie Martling, writing jokes and laughing inappropriately at some tragic news story. Oh yes, and he didn't speak unless spoken to.
Today's show made me miss Jackie. No, he didn't tell great stories or seem particularily interesting. I miss his laugh and the fact that on The Howard Stern Show, less is more. There is one voice too many on the show and that loud voice is Artie. Artie has become the center of attention on this top rated show. Not by natural circumstances but by way of Artie selling himself in all his narcissistic ways. Artie's favourite subject is Artie. Whatever the topic of the moment, the conversation seems to always come back around to an Artie story or in relation to how he was involved. For example, Howard would be talking about his bachelor party and Artie chimes in with a good five minutes on himself and how it was difficult to see other people drinking at the party. WHAAAH! His habit of interrupting the show with his long winded,self promoting diatribe has ruined the flow of what once was a great radio show. Enough Artie! It's time to start listening to what Howard, the star of the show, has to say. None of these obnoxious, loud attempts at being funny are working for you any more. It's time for Howard to realize (and I think he does) that the show is much better without Artie. Sometimes...less is more!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
The Who? The Greatest Band Of All Time? You Better You Bet!
I remember the first time I heard "Won't Get Fooled Again", 1980. Keith Moon had been dead for two years but I didn't know. I had no idea who Keith Moon was. No idea who the band was that sang this classic rock anthem. In 1980, I was just old enough to appreciate rock, classic rock. I was tired of The Bay City Rollers (give me a break, I was a kid). It was time to graduate; not in a cognisant way but in a magically natural moment that grips you, no matter what age you are. All of us experience these feelings of amazement and wonderment to something new... and never forget that moment and time. Music is that powerful. More powerful than any book or movie, music can touch your soul, stop you in your tracks with its sound and lyrics and bring back memories that, once forgotten, can touch a persons heart with joy or sadness. This is what music does to us... and more than any musician(s), The Who affect and reach me like no other band.In the 1960's, new rock bands were born, it seemed, every week. This was an era of unparalleled creativity in music. Whether an act was European or North American, the output of music was so fresh and unique in its sound that it sent a shock wave to a new generation of kids craving more than the generic brand of pop music. This was the golden era of contemporary music. Of course, The Beatles led the way in musical output, quality and popularity. The Rolling Stones were always second to the "Mop Tops" as far as adulation and music sales go.With their rebellious image, they were the polar opposites of The Beatles in terms of image and sound. The perfect contrast to the squeaky clean Beatles. The competition between The Beatle and Stones is legendary, with the two bands trying to outdo each other with the next #1 hit. The Who never had a chance to eclipse The Beatles or Stones whether it be number 1 hits or album sales. They were the perennial number three rated band in the British Invasion era... there were only so many sales to go around. It didn't matter. The Who never competed with anyone. The only battles they fought were amongst themselves. Their drive to create music that mattered to them was stronger than any critics opinion or public adulation. Their irreverence and disregard of public approval is what endeared me to The Who. What mattered to The Who was something more tangible than accolades, something deeper than sales and gold records. The only way to truly reach the public in a spiritual way; to be the most entertaining and loudest live band in the world!
The Who, throughout the '60's, were constantly touring and as a result, building a reputation as a working class band. Their legendary energy and power of the live shows gave fans an infusion of Rock and Roll in its rawest form. The fans, over the years, had become fascinated with these four brilliant musicians in all their dysfunctional ways. With The Who, there was no mistaking their rage and anger towards the world and at times, each other. This anger was the engine that ran and sustained The Who and their ability to create music that was relevant to a generation. With The Beatles and Stones being watched under a microscope, The Who had the freedom to be honest with their music and fans and not have to portray a certain image or create a sound or formula that The Beatles and Stones were expected to perpetuate for the sake of sales.
The Who, since their incarnation in 1964, released 11 studio albums. Before the death of Keith Moon, eight classic Who albums were produced with the original lineup of Townshend, Daltrey, Entwistle and Moon. Not a huge output of albums, considering other bands of their era averaged an album or more a year. The Who never cared about quantity... they made an album when they (more accurately, Pete Townshend) were ready. It's the quality and significance of their music, combined with an almost religious approach to their live shows, give The Who cult status. Of all the great live bands, it was The Who that added elements of musicianship, power, enthusiasm, rage (smashed guitars and destroyed drum sets) and anger. Though they were often at odds with each other, this dysfunctional foursome, once on stage were genuinely having FUN. The rage and anger was aimed at society and an imperfect world. When they were on stage, they were brothers working towards a common goal. Feelings aside, no member would ever let the other down. As individuals, The Who were supreme musicians. If none of the members had ever met, the members would have certainly been respected musicians, though I doubt without the esteem and adoration that is held for them to this day. They would have lacked each other. What allows Daltrey, Entwistle, Moon and Townshend to excel, is the sum of the whole. Each member feeds off the other in order to create their genius. As a group, the four created a sound and chemistry that only fate could have created and allow their evolution as musicians to be fulfilled. They met and lived in the right time and place.
Though half of The Who exist today and in reality they could never truly rekindle the classic years, Daltrey and Townshend never let the passing of Moon or Entwistle affect the passion that The Who are about. When all is said and done, it's the music that counts and give the two surviving members credit for never allowing the sound or the legacy to die.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Lafleur and Richard-Two Players That Made The Montreal Canadiens Legendary
I was born in Montreal,Quebec. Growing up in Quebec, you experience all four of the seasons in all their wonderful, unpredictable ways. Winter (quite synonymous with Quebec) seems like the longest of all seasons. Winter in Canada can start in October and end well into April. As a result, kids need something to do to fill those months with healthy activity. Learning to ice skate, for most, is automatic...right after taking your first steps. I learned to skate at four years old and in my neighbourhood, it was like that for most of the kids. As we became older (one year later), most of the boys started to play hockey in the Mites league. Soon we were old enough to understand how to play the game...and, thanks to our Dads, WATCH the game and the Canadiens on Hockey Night In Canada!
As a child, my first memories of the Canadiens and watching games on T.V. was the blonde haired (in the 70's and 80's you new the colour of hockey players hair- helmets were optional), graceful and smooth skating Hab (nickname for the Canadiens, "Les Habitants", meaning French settlers), Guy Lafleur. To me, he was the MICKEY MANTLE of hockey. Larger than life, exciting and French Canadian, Guy Lafleur was the pride of Quebec in a province that needed a hero of their own in a time of political and social turmoil in Canada and Quebec. Guy Lafleur, hockey player, gave Montreal and Quebec a sense of pride. If you were French or English speaking in Montreal, you had something in common; you loved Guy Lafleur and the Montreal Canadiens. It brought a lot of us together, regardless of differences. Guy Laleur finished his career with his Montreal Canadien career with 1246 points and 518 goals including six 50 goal seasons between 1974-1980.
Unfortunately,Lafleur "retired" from the Canadiens at age 33 after his production tailed off in the '80's and it was assumed he was too old to play and retired a young man after much criticism and high expectations from Canadiens management and fans. "The Flower" would come out of retirement in 1988 and retire for good in 1991.
By then,his skills had diminished (along with his hair) but fans were still witness to his past greatness, but just periodically.In my mind,what sends Lafleur into mythical status is not what he accomplished, but what could have been achieved. Lafleur partied and drank as hard as he played, smoked (by some accounts, two packs of cigarettes a day) and was involved in a well known drunken car accident that nearly took his life. While I don't admire an athlete, blessed with gifts that you and I could only dream of having, not taking care of himself, there's a certain amazement and wonder in what could have been achieved if this gifted athlete had taken care of himself off the ice.
When you're young, you think history started in your era. As we get older, we learn that there were past events and people that existed before us. In my small world, at an age to realize and be aware that there were those who made their mark before us, I discovered that "The Rocket", Maurice Richard played for the Canadiens from 1942 to 1960. He finished his NHL career with 965 points and 544 goals. Richard was the first player to score 50 goals AND do so in 50 games. In an era when 20 goals was a HUGE total of goals, "The Rocket" was a pioneer in goal scoring just as Babe Ruth was to home runs in baseball. When parents would speak of his accomplishments and achievements and how he was larger than life in the hockey world and in Quebec...I said "ya, right, bigger than "The Flower" and all his popularity, "Bigger, much bigger than Lafleur, he was the original superstar. The BABE RUTH of hockey". What!? Yes...adored by Quebecers and Canadiens fans alike, Richard played hockey in an era that bridged the radio and television era.
For the first time, hockey fans were able to see their heroes on T.V. and not have to shell out money for a ticket at the Montreal Forum. This exposure on television, combined with the Canadiens Stanley Cup success and "The Rocket" being the heart and soul of the team, turned players, until then, only heard on radio or read about in newspapers, into someone a fan could identify with. Maurice Richard, with his explosive speed, his grit, his toughness and his heart, became a role model and a symbol of hope to many Quebecers. Richard, during his NHL career, was a victim of much prejudice and stereotyping. French Canadians were seen a "second citizens" in this era of the Anglophone run NHL and Richard fought for equal rights and earned respect with his class, on and off the ice, in a time when French Canadians earned less money and were subject to unspeakable name calling from opposing players and fans alike. Richard, his hockey accomplishment notwithstanding, broke down the barriers between French and English, East and West Canada and the NHL "elite" that were ignorant to diversity and unaware that cultural and language variety is something to celebrate and not repress.
When the Montreal Forum closed in 1996 and the Canadiens moved to the present Bell Centre, during the opening ceremonies when the Habs legends were brought out to christen the new home, it was Richard that received the longest ovation, 16 minutes. The unflappable legend with eyes of coal cried. Fans cried. I think most who watched on television cried. Of all the memories that Richard left people with from the '40's to the day he retired in 1960, that ovation in 1996, 36 years after his playing days, allowed people to feel and show Richard what we felt all along...We never forgot you..We never stopped loving you...You gave us hope...We'll never forget!
As a child, my first memories of the Canadiens and watching games on T.V. was the blonde haired (in the 70's and 80's you new the colour of hockey players hair- helmets were optional), graceful and smooth skating Hab (nickname for the Canadiens, "Les Habitants", meaning French settlers), Guy Lafleur. To me, he was the MICKEY MANTLE of hockey. Larger than life, exciting and French Canadian, Guy Lafleur was the pride of Quebec in a province that needed a hero of their own in a time of political and social turmoil in Canada and Quebec. Guy Lafleur, hockey player, gave Montreal and Quebec a sense of pride. If you were French or English speaking in Montreal, you had something in common; you loved Guy Lafleur and the Montreal Canadiens. It brought a lot of us together, regardless of differences. Guy Laleur finished his career with his Montreal Canadien career with 1246 points and 518 goals including six 50 goal seasons between 1974-1980.
Unfortunately,Lafleur "retired" from the Canadiens at age 33 after his production tailed off in the '80's and it was assumed he was too old to play and retired a young man after much criticism and high expectations from Canadiens management and fans. "The Flower" would come out of retirement in 1988 and retire for good in 1991.
By then,his skills had diminished (along with his hair) but fans were still witness to his past greatness, but just periodically.In my mind,what sends Lafleur into mythical status is not what he accomplished, but what could have been achieved. Lafleur partied and drank as hard as he played, smoked (by some accounts, two packs of cigarettes a day) and was involved in a well known drunken car accident that nearly took his life. While I don't admire an athlete, blessed with gifts that you and I could only dream of having, not taking care of himself, there's a certain amazement and wonder in what could have been achieved if this gifted athlete had taken care of himself off the ice.
When you're young, you think history started in your era. As we get older, we learn that there were past events and people that existed before us. In my small world, at an age to realize and be aware that there were those who made their mark before us, I discovered that "The Rocket", Maurice Richard played for the Canadiens from 1942 to 1960. He finished his NHL career with 965 points and 544 goals. Richard was the first player to score 50 goals AND do so in 50 games. In an era when 20 goals was a HUGE total of goals, "The Rocket" was a pioneer in goal scoring just as Babe Ruth was to home runs in baseball. When parents would speak of his accomplishments and achievements and how he was larger than life in the hockey world and in Quebec...I said "ya, right, bigger than "The Flower" and all his popularity, "Bigger, much bigger than Lafleur, he was the original superstar. The BABE RUTH of hockey". What!? Yes...adored by Quebecers and Canadiens fans alike, Richard played hockey in an era that bridged the radio and television era.
For the first time, hockey fans were able to see their heroes on T.V. and not have to shell out money for a ticket at the Montreal Forum. This exposure on television, combined with the Canadiens Stanley Cup success and "The Rocket" being the heart and soul of the team, turned players, until then, only heard on radio or read about in newspapers, into someone a fan could identify with. Maurice Richard, with his explosive speed, his grit, his toughness and his heart, became a role model and a symbol of hope to many Quebecers. Richard, during his NHL career, was a victim of much prejudice and stereotyping. French Canadians were seen a "second citizens" in this era of the Anglophone run NHL and Richard fought for equal rights and earned respect with his class, on and off the ice, in a time when French Canadians earned less money and were subject to unspeakable name calling from opposing players and fans alike. Richard, his hockey accomplishment notwithstanding, broke down the barriers between French and English, East and West Canada and the NHL "elite" that were ignorant to diversity and unaware that cultural and language variety is something to celebrate and not repress.
When the Montreal Forum closed in 1996 and the Canadiens moved to the present Bell Centre, during the opening ceremonies when the Habs legends were brought out to christen the new home, it was Richard that received the longest ovation, 16 minutes. The unflappable legend with eyes of coal cried. Fans cried. I think most who watched on television cried. Of all the memories that Richard left people with from the '40's to the day he retired in 1960, that ovation in 1996, 36 years after his playing days, allowed people to feel and show Richard what we felt all along...We never forgot you..We never stopped loving you...You gave us hope...We'll never forget!
The Best 10 T.V. Shows Of All Time: #2 Six Feet Under
I am a classic television junky. Most shows made today do not hold up to the originality, the story lines and the uniqueness of the old programs made during televisions "Golden Era". As a result, when and if I become a follower of a series, it has to be special; If the show doesn't touch me emotionally, I'll reach for the remote and search for T.V. Land. Not to say that there have not been ground breaking television shows made in the last 20 years. Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Picket Fences, Northern Exposure, The West Wing and The Sopranos are a few that come to mind. Heck, I even enjoyed Beverly Hills 90210! Still, most of the programming and its content left me yearning for Columbo or Hill Street Blues and the television of the '70's and '80's.
My brother, a great judge of what is strong or weak on television, recommended I check out Six Feet Under and to tell him what I think (this was 2003, two years into the shows run). We don't get HBO on television (to date) in Canada, so the usual way to watch an American show not accessible to the masses is to rent the DVD at the video store. After renting and watching Season 1, The Pilot, I instantly realized that this show was unique and special. When I watch a show, I watch a show, study it, digest it, judge it. I instantly LOVED the show. I felt that click, the alarm that goes off..the "quality gauge" in your head. I needed more! The characters, above all, intrigued and fascinated me. I related to the portrayals given by all the unique and flawed actors. The daily struggles that they endured (self doubt, hurt, fears, emotions, death, etc.) allowed me, the viewer to relate in a way that made me think that all of us have the same fears in day to day life; the content made me feel that I'm not alone in coping with this adventure (and sometimes struggle) called life. When a program can open your eyes and make you ponder your own existence, the "what's it all about" life questions, you treat it with as much appreciation and respect as a classic novel that gave you the words you lived by or a song that was the soundtrack of your life. A series that sent a charge through me so strong and powerful, I felt fortunate to "get it".
Six Feet Under is not a series (graphic language and content) for the networks. Without the graphic and sexual content, this program would never have such a following. This is a show for adults and I understand the difference between family entertainment and adult content. Credit HBO for its existence. Credit HBO for taking a chance on a show that in its first few years was not a huge success. Like M*A*S*H, credit the network for allowing the series to grow and build an audience. Because of this, Six Feet Under turned nay sayers into fans. DVD sales and rentals alone prove that the public is intrigued by this show, its content, its writing and its characters.
Though there are dozens of dramas and comedies that have touched the mass public and myself, Six Feet Under deserves #2 all time television status due to: -Being the one show that treated and allowed us to see life and death in a realistic and graphic way. It was not always easy to watch but give credit to the show for its honesty and realism that both entertained us and alarmed us simultaneously. -The characters that we identified with, whether individually or as a combination. Each actor cast in their respected roles, allowed us to relate to each one with a flurry of emotions and identification. Nate Fisher, the anchor and flawed "savior" of the family, inherited the role of patriarch after the death Nathaniel Sr. What's symbolic about Nate is that he realizes and accepts his role in keeping the family together but negative forces and self destructive behaviour (based on impulsive behaviour) usually complicates Nate's life to the point where Nate questions his own existence and his place in life (we can all relate) He is the conscientiousness of the the show. David Fisher, middle child, closet homosexual, sensitive and angry, struggles for acceptance and understanding in a world dictated by social norms. David's continual search for answers with his conflicting lifestyles (homosexual in one world and seemingly straight with his family, funeral home clients and church in another), give way to guilt, shame and confusion, combined with a sensitivity and compassion for others make David the Id, Ego and Super Ego of the show. Claire Fisher, the youngest Fisher by several years, provides the show with youth, optimism, pretentiousness, an above it all attitude. With an honesty the other Fisher's are not capable of, Claire is the voice of truth on the show. Ruth Fisher, mother of the Fishers, provides the family with the security of a mother we all received or craved, as well as the fears that a mother can bring onto you with all her overbearing ways. Ruth holds all the guilt, the fear and the insecurity of the show. Ironically, Ruth being the most straight-laced and unflinching of all characters paradoxically is the one family member most open to change. Ruth represents adaptation and how we are all capable of overcoming tragedy and grief...and moving on with our lives. -The Finale, in all its hype, is THE BEST FINALE...ever. I won't describe it. My description could never give this masterpiece the credit due. Just rent it...it's the most powerful piece of film I have ever seen...period.
Six Feet Under, the best drama series of our generation...a show that could have continued on for a couple more years but new when to call it quits...on top. Six Feet Under never died though...for those who watched, it will live on forever in our memories.
The 10 Best T.V. Shows Of All Time: #1 M*A*S*H
M*A*S*H...the '70's comedy (and sometimes drama), was the greatest sitcom, that for 5 years, nobody watched. Yes there were core fans who religiously tuned in every week but the masses generally ignored the series due to its war theme and sometimes serious subject matter. The series was created in 1972 by M*A*S*H author H. Richard Hornberger (Hornberger used the pseudonym Richard Hooker as an author) after the success the 1968 movie by the same name. Even though ratings were small, CBS could not deny the fact that this series had quality in its storylines and actors alike. Today, a show like M*A*S*H would never make it through the first year. Back in the day, television networks allowed a series to mature and find its audience (It's a good thing CBS gave M*A*S*H 11 years to flourish!)
When M*A*S*H was going through its growing pains (1972-1977) and producing its best years of creativity, I was too young to watch or appreciate the series. Fortunately, after the shows finale in 1983, there was such a huge demand for the show (Aging well,like fine wine) that it could seen 3, 4 even 5 times a day on various channels (In the '80's, new cable channels were popping up everywhere). As a result, due to this exposure, I became a M*A*S*H addict. I fell in love with the characters, the stories, the quality in which it was filmed (M*A*S*H was preserved on movie quality film). The creators of M*A*S*H were the first to expose viewers to the horrors and light side of war, not particularily in that order. The scenes in the operating room were not privy to a laugh track (producers were aware of the respect, dignity and sanctity necessary for those injured in previous wars). There were jokes written in the diologue during those scenes and give credit to the writers for allowing the audience to feel a mix of emotions during these scenes...from sadness for the injured... to the surgeons and nurses finding humour in light of horrific conditions..only to keep themselves from going insane. These scenes in the O.R., in my opinion, turned M*A*S*H from just a sitcom to a series with social significance, allowing generations of people to think about war...and what price do we all pay for this.
The humour of M*A*S*H, combined with top rate actors and writing, kept audiences captivated for 11 years. It's the comedy and unpredictability of M*A*S*H that gave this series longevity. People under the age of 30 probably do not realize the incredible avalanche of popularity M*A*S*H had inherited the last few years of its run. M*A*S*H still holds the all time record for audience viewership (106 miliion) for its final episode "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen". I feel a certain contentment in knowing that my favourite show ever holds the record that probably will never be eclipsed.
Thank-you Alan Alda: One of the most under-rated actors of our time...Paper Lion, Same Time Next Year are two of my favourite movies from my childhood...Thank-you for not giving up on M*A*S*H at a time when you did not see a clear future for the show. You ARE M*A*S*H and the reason for its existence.
Thank-you McLean Stevenson: The first 3 seasons that you were Lt. Col. Henry Blake were the funniest of times..and the saddest, with the untimely death of your character, controversial by some, but poignant in terms of allowing the characters death to be written in the script and announced by Radar in the operating room. Heavy television at a time when subject matter with such personal tragedy was never discussed in comedies.
Thank-you Gary Burghoff: The most loveable character in the history of television, Radar O'Reilly. You were in the movie in 1968 as Radar and no one could duplicate the wonderful innocence and freshness that was so needed in an Army camp surrounded by "all knowing" war time burn outs. Radar was also a pioneer. He allowed us to witness televisions first "nude"scene. In season 2, while escaping enemy fire, O'Reilly can be seen running for cover (sporting a towel around his waist), protected only by the showers/latrine. As he opens the door to enter, his towel, wrapped around his waist, drops...showing a bare behind for a split second. He eventually falls into the safe arms of Henry Blake..in a scene that will forever make me laugh in hysterics! Thank-you Larry Linville: Major Frank Burns was a character played so far opposite to Hawkeye Pierce in sympathy and compassion. Ultimately, these flaws, brought on by fear and insecurity, drew the audience closer to Burns, thus making us feel compassionate towards his character. One of the great character performances of our time.
Thank-you Jamie Farr: The section 8 persuing Corporal Klinger was unique for television but not for the Army. It is not a mystery that several of the enlisted personnel were so desperate to return home that "bidding for a section 8" (psychiatric discharge) was not uncommon. What made Klinger's attempts unique was his affection for women's clothing. Takes a lot of guts to dress in something cross gendre. Klinger seemed to be comfortable in this attire...and after a while, the audience didn't notice, really, or didn't mind. When Klinger was NOT wearing women's clothing, we saw this as weird! Brilliant!
Thank-you M*A*S*H...Thank-you Hawkeye, Trapper, Henry Blake, Radar O'Reilly, Frank Burns, Hot Lips, Father Mulcahy, Klinger, B.J., Colonel Potter, Charles Emaerson Winchester the 3rd...even Nurse Kellye Nakahara, Igor Staminsky, Sergeant Rizzo, Dr.Sidney Freedman, Col. Flagg and camp P.A. announcers(Attention...attention camp...),Todd Susman and Sal Viscuso.
Last but certainly not least, I could not finish this article without mentioning the composer and lyricist of the classic theme to M*A*S*H, Suicide Is Painless...Johnny Mandel (music) and the lyrics (Robert Altman). This music is synonymous with M*A*S*H and its 11 year run. For those who remember, the music starts with the sight of Radar (ever present and aware, the eyes and ears of the camp)overlooking the camp as helicopters approach the landing pad, while Doctors and Nurses rush to aide the injured. If you are old enough to appreciate pioneering television and have watched M*A*S*H, you know how powerful this opening of the show is.
M*A*S*H...what acting, what writing, what stories, what comedy, what drama...what memories. The best show, comedy or drama, that has ever been produced...period.
Goodbye, Farewell and Amen.
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