At my Stats class today, I made a joke about converting statistical data into Ebonic speak when analyzing something. The instructor, who is African-American said, "You know, you're trying to be funny, but you aren't." I thought, "Well EXCUUUUUUUUSE ME for putting the ASS in CLASS, but that's just the way I am, chief." And while I went into Diplomat Mode after class, I stil thought, "And you know, that's not the worst epithet I can lay on you, either. At least be happy the bloody N-word wasn't decked out in a nod to the KKK being reformed as a result of the election a couple weeks ago, and that I am doing my role in making this class fun like you are. You ungrateful instructor."
He was even gargling a bit while talking about the 5-Step Hypothesis Test. For a few fleeting seconds, I thought, "My god, is Screamin' Jay Hawkins teaching the course? Did he somehow get back from the dead? Damn you, Henry!" Henry is Jay's little butt-smoking skull friend on a stick. Something like that.
As I left for the 111, I was like Kyou Fujibayashi post-Tomoya Okazaki Bitchslap of Horror: "Sheeesh, why do professors who gargle like Screamin' Jay Hawkins show a lack of gratitude? Are they taught to be that way since childhood? If so, may the Devil Incarnate save them."
===
Speaking of elections, what took the damn pricks from CNN so fucking long to call Missouri to McCain. I mean, it's TWO WEEKS after the fact, and just today...they called it.
God help whoever was working the map, or compiling the exit polls down there at the Election Center. They call Missouri a bellweather state...I beg to differ; Missouri got its bell rung today. Guess they showed them, huh?
===
And aside from my little chastising moment a few hours ago, I am actually in a good mood overall. The Socceroos and the USA men's national team (unlike the U-17 girls against Kim Jong Il's young Arirang Mass Games gymnasts-in-training) actually won. Australia's 1-0 win against Bahrain was funny. It looked like the goal winner by Marco Bresciano was a Steven Bradbury-esque goal. The seas party like the Men's 1,000 meters in short track at Salt Lake 2002, and the most unlikely of heroes takes advantage of the unexpected opportunity.
Ironically, Mark cycled a cracker against this same Bahraini side two years ago in Sydney. One thing's for sure: Bresciano is a hated man in Manama now. He may have as well ruined their hopes of even coming close to the fifth-place match.
As for the guys, it was just plain cleaning up in a 2-0 win over Guatemala., So they enter the Hexagonal with Mexico (I mean, come on, a CONCACAF Hexagonal would not be a CONCACAF Hexagonal without the USA and Mexico in it...it just wouldn't be the same without both of them qualifying), Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Trinidad and Tobago (who dealt Bob Bradley's guys the only loss in the third round).
One has to feel for Jamaica, though. In spite of a 3-0 blasting of Canada, they are set to be in a state of lux (and their manager is destined to be sacked like a gift in Santa's gunny) after Mexico failed to do their share of the dirty work in a 1-0 defeat (with two red cards; ugh!) against Los Catrachos. Poor Reggae Boyz..now they will get the epithet of "Reggae Toyz" for four more years.
It's a cruel game, football is. But that's what makes it fun to watch.
===
Once agaim, I said it again...good riddance Ted Stevens. Thanks to Mark Begich unseating the old geezer, we Now all that needs to happen in Norm Coleman and Saxby Chambliss to fall in their races in Minnesota and Georgia, respectively. They will be luckier than Steven Bradbury if they do get re-elected, the GOP rubes.
Alaska is no longer the laughingstock of the country...
But Norm Coleman and Saxy Chambliss will be lucky if they are reelected.
And THAT, my friend, is the bottom line.
I will say this loud and clear:
Why bother with a recount, Ted Stevens? A crotchety old bastard like you should be done with politics. You put yourself in this mess, and not even the Lord above can save you from the hell hole you are in.
Now get the bloody fuck out our sacred Hill. You scumbag.
And THAT, my friend, is the bottom line.
Ted Stevens' defeat in Alaska marks end of an era
By MICHAEL R. BLOOD – 12 hours ago
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Sen. Ted Stevens' election defeat marks the end of an era in which he held a commanding place in Alaska politics while wielding power on some of the most influential committees in Congress.
It also moves Senate Democrats within two seats of a filibuster-proof 60-vote majority and gives President-elect Barack Obama a stronger hand when he assumes office on Jan. 20.
On the day the longest-serving Republican in Senate history turned 85, he was ousted by Alaska voters troubled by his conviction on federal felony charges and eager for a new direction in Washington, where Stevens served since Lyndon B. Johnson was president.
Alaska voters "wanted to see change," said Democrat Mark Begich, who claimed a narrow victory Tuesday after a tally of remaining ballots showed him holding a 3,724-vote edge.
"Alaska has been in the midst of a generational shift — you could see it," said Begich, the Anchorage mayor.
Democrats now hold 58 Senate seats, when two independents who align with Democrats are included, with undecided races in Minnesota and Georgia.
"With seven seats and counting now added to the Democratic ranks in the Senate, we have an even stronger majority that will bring real change to America," Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, said in a statement.
Stevens' pursuit of a seventh term was damaged by his conviction in federal court — just days before the election — for lying on Senate disclosure forms to conceal more than $250,000 in gifts and home renovations from an oil field services company.
He was trying to become the first convicted felon to win election to the Senate. A survey of people leaving polling places conducted for The Associated Press and television networks found that two of three voters considered Stevens' trial a factor in their decision. Begich voters cited it as an issue more often.
Stevens' lawyer had demanded a speedy trial, hoping for exoneration in time to fight the first serious threat to his seat in decades. But the trial in Washington not only left Stevens a felon, it deprived him of time to campaign in his home state.
"I wouldn't wish what I'm going through on anyone, my worst enemy," Stevens told reporters in Washington on Tuesday before the vote count. "I haven't had a night's sleep for almost four months."
Still, he said he will not ask President George W. Bush to give him a pardon for his seven felony convictions.
Tuesday's tally of just over 24,000 absentee and other ballots gave Begich 150,728, or 47.76 percent, to 147,004, or 46.58 percent, for Stevens. There are about 2,500 overseas ballots yet to be counted.
A recount is possible. Stevens did not issue a statement, and campaign aides did not respond to calls for comment.
In Alaska, the losing candidate or a collection of 10 voters has three days to petition for a recount unless the vote was a tie, in which case it would be automatic. If the difference between the candidates is within 0.5 percent of the total votes cast, the state pays for the recount, to be started within three days of the recount petition. The state Elections Division has 10 days to complete the recount.
The crotchety octogenarian occupies an outsized place in Alaska history. His involvement in politics dates to the days before Alaska statehood, and he is esteemed for his ability to secure billions of dollars in federal aid for transportation and military projects. The Anchorage airport bears his name; to Alaskans, it's simply "Uncle Ted."
"He symbolizes Alaska's legitimacy, that Alaska is a player on the national stage as much as anybody else," University of Alaska Anchorage history professor Steve Haycox said.
His defeat could also allow Republican senators to sidestep the task of determining whether to kick out the longest serving member of their party in the Senate.
When counting resumed Tuesday, 1,022 votes divided the candidates out of about 315,000 ballots cast. Most of the those votes came from areas that had favored Begich — the Anchorage vicinity and the southeastern panhandle around Juneau.
It is a testament to Stevens' popularity — he was once named "Alaskan of the Century" — that he won nearly half the votes, even after his conviction. He routinely brought home the highest number of government dollars per capita in the nation — more than $9 billion in 2006 alone, according to one estimate.
In a state where oil and politics have always mixed, the conviction came as part of a long-running investigation into government corruption centered around VECO.
Following the trial Stevens said he wanted another term "because I love this land and its people" and vowed to press on with an appeal. Professing his innocence, he blamed his legal problems on his former friend Bill Allen, the former VECO Corp. chairman, the government's star witness.
Begich will be the first Democrat to represent Alaska in the Senate in nearly 30 years. He is the son of Nick Begich, Alaska's third congressman, who died in a 1972 plane crash.
Stevens refused pleas from his own party leaders to step down after the verdict, including Sen. John McCain, the GOP presidential nominee who said the Alaska senator had "broken his trust with the people."
Stevens' fall came shortly after another Alaskan, Gov. Sarah Palin, emerged as a national figure on the Republican presidential ticket. She called for Stevens to step aside at one point, but appeared to back away from that the day after the election, when returns showed Stevens with an edge.
"The people of Alaska just spoke," she said.
Associated Press writers Jesse J. Holland and Andrew Taylor in Washington and Rachel D'Oro in Anchorage contributed to this report.
I will say this loud and clear:
Why bother with a recount, Ted Stevens? A crotchety old bastard like you should be done with politics. You put yourself in this mess, and not even the Lord above can save you from the hell hole you are in.
Now get the bloody fuck out our sacred Hill. You scumbag.
Mauricio Ingrassia has got to go. Seriously.
I am in a very sour mood today. Long Bech State's women soccer team had one of the biggest opportunities to win a postseason trophy...and they wasted it. They lost to UC Santa Barbara on penalties, 6-5, after drawing even 1-1 through 110 minutes.
After the Gauchos converted the match-winning penalty, I couldn't stay. I saw enough and I disgracefully stormed out. I invested $8.00 to watch these guys get it done...only to see our status as bridesmaids continue for another year.
Because of this, I sent an e-mail shortly after to Vic Cegles, the school's athletic director, to consider not extending Mauriocio Ingrassia's contract, and even sack him. Fire him. Do anything we can to get a new head coach who can get us the hardware as well as the wins, like Ali Khosroshahin of USC (formerly of Cal State Fullerton).
I have lost faith in Mauricio, as well as exhausted my patience. He should be gone if we don't get an at-large bid.
After the Gauchos converted the match-winning penalty, I couldn't stay. I saw enough and I disgracefully stormed out. I invested $8.00 to watch these guys get it done...only to see our status as bridesmaids continue for another year.
Because of this, I sent an e-mail shortly after to Vic Cegles, the school's athletic director, to consider not extending Mauriocio Ingrassia's contract, and even sack him. Fire him. Do anything we can to get a new head coach who can get us the hardware as well as the wins, like Ali Khosroshahin of USC (formerly of Cal State Fullerton).
I have lost faith in Mauricio, as well as exhausted my patience. He should be gone if we don't get an at-large bid.
More acrimonious shortcomings
I'm a Yomiuri Giants fan. I have a cap that features the world-famous mascot, Giabbit (Giants Rabbit), and I purchased that many years ago at a Foot Locker store in Lakewood. But I read this news below, and I have to wonder if manager Tatsunori Hara is really ready to help manage his national team to victory at the World Baseball Classic next year. Looking at this result, the Bedlam's prognostication is a clear NO. In fact, if Hara is able to even make the knockout stages of the tournament, let alone make the title game or even win the whole enchilada, I will be surprised.
Not a good way to end your season, and I can only hope that that will be the last time the teams I follow choke today.
Lions defeat Giants to win Japan Series
Published: November 9, 2008TOKYO: The Seibu Lions won their first Japan Series title since 2004 on Sunday by defeating the Yomiuri Giants 3-2 in Game 7.
Former major leaguer Hiram Bocachica hit a solo home run in the top of the fifth inning and former New York Yankees pitcher Alex Graman recorded the final six outs for the save as the Lions won their 13th Japan Series title.
Infielder Hiroshi Hirao drove in the winning run with a single up the middle in the eighth inning at Tokyo Dome.
Seibu pitcher Takayuki Kishi, who was named series MVP, won Game 6 to set up the decisive Game 7.
It was a disappointing end to the season for the Giants, who built a 3-2 series lead before heading back to their home stadium for the final two games.
The Giants signed former major leaguers Alex Ramirez and pitcher Seth Greisinger from the Yakult Swallows before the 2008 season. They also signed hard-throwing reliever Marc Kroon from the Yokohama BayStars in the offseason.
Yomiuri manager Tatsunori Hara was named manager of Japan's team for the 2009 World Baseball Classic before the start of the Japan Series but couldn't guide his team to their first championship since 2002.
The Giants are the oldest professional team in Japan. The team's owner is the Yomiuri Group, a media conglomerate which includes two newspapers and a television network.
Not a good way to end your season, and I can only hope that that will be the last time the teams I follow choke today.
YouTube is Kadokawa's Bitch.
I just realized something today. All the hard work I put in had been removed. This is going to be the last fucking time I upload ANY MORE anime music videos to YouTube. When you see sites like this bow down to the big-name industry dictators like Kadokawa, you know you see a site that sucks. All the hard work I put in compiling the video, and this is what I get. It's like being a McCain supporter: you spend countless hours asking your constituents to vote for your candidate, only to see him lose to Barack Obama.
You know what...in fact, I am considering leaving YT, but I have not made any serious debating in my head. But this isn't a step in the right derection. Hell no. In response, I have already posted that same vid on AMV.org and on Veoh. Bloody low-lifes...
This is Fate's Tiara!
This is Fate's Tiara!
Testarossa-Harlaown takes the 2008 International Saimoe League crown
Testarossa-Harlaown takes the 2008 International Saimoe League crown
By JR Salazar
Bedlam on Baltic Avenue
November 4, 2008
On the same day that Barack Obama won the US Presidency, Fate Testarossa Harlaown made 2008 "The Year Of The In-Joke," as said by Nanoha Takamachi, her long-time friend and partner. The top ranked competitor in this tournament, Fate proved that she earned her ranking, never dropping a single match in the 2008 International Saimoe League Tiara phase. Her magical run ended with an emphatic 1220-956 thumping of Yuki Nagato of the Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.
Surrounded by everyone she had worked with in the Time Space Administration Bureau (who decided to fly over to the tournament, though some of the low-ranked staff remained on stand-by), including Naoha, Hayate Yagami, Reinforce Zwei, Vita, Shamal, Signum, Subaru Nakajima, Teana Lanster, Caro Ru Lushe, Erio Mondial, her adopted mother Lindy Harlaown and her son Chrono (also Fate's adopted brother) and Yuuno Scrya, Fate showed that she was human after all, shedding tears of joy, and letting out a victory scream, as her compatriots joined in.
"This has to be the greatest day of my LIFE!" said Fate, who was still in disbelief at the entire result. "I am so happy all the years of suffering finally paid off today, here in the gretest city on Earth! Yeeeaaahhhh!
"I cannot thank you any more from the bottom of my heart. I wanted to leave this tournament a winner, and retire from these tournaments on top. And that is exactly what I have done. I wanted to face Yuki, and I knew what I had to do. But it wasn't easy. Nothing in this world is easy. The only way you can make it look easy is to believe, and to hope, like our brethren from across the oceans, Senator Barack Obama of the United States of America, and his compatriot Senator Joseph Biden of Delaware. They brought with them hope, and through their cause and your votes...we have done it!"
Banners in the air showing Fate's calm countenance, with simply the word "FATE!" at the bottom, were hoisted, as well signs such as "This is for Fate!" and "It's Fate that drives you!" and "Number One, from start to finish."
"I have so many people to thank. To my love, Nanoha...I wear this Tiara for you, and with it, my love for you." She said this as she kissed her, to the roar of the crowd, some who had to be hospitalized due to epistaxis. "To my friends. Everyone gathered here on this stage. You have given me the strength I needed to win. I dedicate this Tiara to you. You have given me strength. You have made me a Champion, who stands with you in solidarity tonight."
"To someone I wished I knew better, and someone who wished she knew me better...my deceased mother, Precia. Tonight, I extend my hand in the hopes that I make amends with you. To my sister who I never knew, and wished knew me, to Alicia...I hope you are happy with what your sister has accomplished. It's the least I could do to make you happy."
"Finally, to everyone gathered here who watched this battle...thank you for the support these past eight months. Because of your undying commitment and belief in what I can do for you, I came into the Tiara phase on top, and finish this 2008 season on top. Thank you, thank you, thank you."
The crowd roared one last time as the fireworks blazed over Tokyo's 23 wards and cities, as well as in Mid-Childa, to the tunes of "Eternal Blaze" and "Innocent Starter." Confetti streamed from the heavens, as well as sakura petals and feathers. Decked in her mage outfit, Fate raised her weapon Bardiche Assault high, who said, simply, "Great job, sir."
"I told you so," said Nanoha after the battle. "This was going to be Fate's. And it was fate that gave Fate this Tiara. Plain and simple."
"I have a REALLY tough act to follow next year," said Hayate Yagami. "I'm gonna give it everything I got, but I don't think there will ever be anyone who can top the way Fat
This one's for Kagami!
This one's for Kagami!
Hiiragi rebounds from loss to Nagato, takes 2chan Saimoe title
Hiiragi rebounds from loss to Nagato, takes 2chan Saimoe title
By Bongaboi
Bedlam on Baltic Avenue
November 2, 2008
She may have finished third in the 2008 ISML Tiara race, but none of that mattered to Kagami Hiiragi, who took home the 2008 2channel Anime Saimoe Tournament title to Kasukabe, Saitama Prefecture. The sweets-loving tsunderekko and partner to Konata Izumi got her redemption, defeating her younger sister Tsukasa, 1037-976.
Fireworks went off and confetti drizzled the skies at the victory rally in Private Ryou High School in Kasukabe, where a huge overflow crowd of just about everybody in the city, along with some dignitaries from the nation's capital, were jumping and dancing to one of the school's favorite songs, "Motteke! Sailor Furu" (Take it! Sailor Uniform) and "Kaeshite! Knee Socks" (Return It! Knee Socks). Flags where flying in the air, and banners praising the twins' effort this tournament could be seen. Signs congratulating Kagami were plentiful, with a number saying "We love Kagami," with an "e" crossed out. One even said, "Kagami wins. No fake either!" alluding to her loss last year to Rena Ryuuguu at the hands of proxy votes.
"Onee-chan wanted it more," said Tsukasa. "This was going to be her tournament. And she got it done. I have no tears to cry. It was either gonna be onee-chan or me. And I would be happy with it either way."
"That's my Kagamin!" said a belated Konata, who was jumping up and down, screaming like a kid at Christmas. "My waifu...she did it! She is the best! I am so proud of my Kagamin. To be the partner to the Saimoe 2008 champion...I feel like I have won too! This is a day I can never forget. This is G-R-E-A-T!!!"
"Everybody, thank you so very much," said Kagami, who was shedding tears of joy as she was surrounded by Tsukasa and the other members of her family: father Tado, mother Miki, older sisters Inori and Matsuri, and Tsukasa; as well as Konata (who was clinging on to her) and her father Soujirou, Miyuki Takara and her mother Yukari, Misao Kusakabe, Ayano Minegishi, Yutaka Kobayakawa and cousin Yui Narumi, Minami Iwasaki and her mom, Patricia Martin, Hiyori Tamura, Akira Kogami and Minoru Shiraishi of Lucky Channel, Nanako Kuroi, and even Meito Anisawa.
"Because of all of you, I was able to finally realize this dream, to become the best in Japan. You helped me get there. I feel like I am in heaven, surrounded by everyone I know, and I am pinching myself-well Konata's pinching me-to make sure I am not dreaming. I'm not.
"I may have lost to Yuki Nagato in the ISML Tiara, but I was not gonna be denied this time!" The crowd roared in approval. "And neither of them will be in the ISML 2009 season, so it can only get better.
"I want to thank a lot of people today. First, my younger sister, Tsukasa. You put up a great fight, and there shouldn't be any shame in finishing second to someone who will always be by your side, no matter what. Second, to the rest of my family, thank you for all the support you gave me this year. I feel that through your guidance, I become stronger every day.
"Third, to my partner, Konata. We may have had our differences, and some of your jokes may have been questionable, and I may have poked a little too much fun at your flat chest..." The crowd laughed while Konata blushed. "...but the bottom line is that this is what makes us happy together. You are someone who will be a tough act to follow, and you are the love of my life. I draw a lot of my energy from you, and I could never have made it this far without you. I love you, Konata."
"Kagamin..." Konata said, as her lips touched hers. The crowd erupted as streams of blood sprayed into the air. "Yu-ri! Yuri! Yu-ri!" chanted some of the guys.
"Fourth, to all my friends who are on the stage with me. Miyuki. Yutaka. Misao. Ayano. Patty. Minami. Hiyori. Akira. Minoru. Yui. Kuroi-sensei. All of you have been instrumental in helping me win this tournament. To each of you, thank you very much."
"And finally, to all of you in the crowd who have supported me and Tsukasa. You have helped us get all the way to this very night. This 2chan Anime Saimoe Tournament is something that none of you should take for granted. It is a privilege to be with the likes of Suiseiseki, Sakura Kinomoto, Nanoha Takamachi and Rika Furude. This is a very special tournament for me and Tsukasa, and I know it has been a very special victory for all of you here. Once again, I thank you from the bottom of my hearts. I love you. Thank you!"
She bowed to the crowd, who roared. A few, then some, then all asked for the people on stage to do the "Motteke! Sailor Fuku" dance.
"Shall we do it one more time?" asked Kagami to Konata.
"For you...let's do it! One more time!" she replied excitedly. Her pheromones were are bright as the fireworks that went off. And so everyone on stage did the dance while the crowd jumped and joined in singing the song as the fireworks continued to go off into the Kasukabe night.
BoBA Predictions: The 2008 ISML Tiara Final
Cleansing of the Arid Foundation
November 4, 2008
Tokyo
#1 Fate Testarossa Harlaown vs. #6 Yuki Nagato
With the 2008 2chan Anime Saimoe Tournament concluded, our attention turns to the big one. This is it. The 2008 International Saimoe League Tiara championship match between #1 Fate Testarossa Harlaown and #6-ranked Yuki Nagato for the right to call herself the world's best female anime chracter for this year. For both these fighters, this will most likely be their last battle before their days competing in Saimoe are effectively over. One of them will end their campaign a winner, the other will ponder for the rest of her life on what could have been. Everything is now on the line this match. And the Bedlam has been waiting for this very match, too. Each and every citizen in Tokyo already snapped up tickets to see this match.
On one corner, you have the #1 seed, Fate Testarossa Harlaown, who flied the flag for the Nanoha franchise. She is an experienced, accomplished fighter who overcame a past that few could be able to survive to become one of the strongest mages in the world. Armed with Bardiche Assault, Fate is able to slice and dice anyone that stands in her way. Of course, she has the looks to back her artillery. Her blonde twin tails, naive nature and coolness have added to her consistent performances this season. Fate is also the only competitor that has yet to drop a match in the 2008 ISML Tiara postseason tournament. Her compatriot and best friend (and partner), Nanoha, declared that this year "...would be the year of the In-Joke," alluding to fate calling for Fate to prevail, because it was fate, after all.
On the other corner you have Yuki Nagato, who flies the flag for Haruhiists all over the planet. One of the greatest artificial humans since Rei Ayanami of Neon Genesis Evangelion, Yuki's paranormal abilities allow her to rebuild, restructure, and rethink how the world works. From superhuman strength, to picking up an instrument, to reformulating a baseball bat and restoring a classroom, it is no surprise that Yuki is in this final. In fact, oen may say that Yuki know that Fate wanted to face her long before her interview with Brian Griffin on the Lunch Hour on 97.1 WQHG earlier last week.
Now, the way the final works is as follows: Fate needs to win once to earn the Tiara. Yuki needs to win TWICE. If Yuki wins the first match (which I would think a number of people would do just to prolong the match to its final day), then we go to the November 7 runoff vote, the "Revelation of the Holy Tiara," round, which will determine the winner. Fate is keen to not let this go all the way to November 7, and the Bedlam is calling for Fate Testarossa to win the 2008 International Saimoe League championship.
On one corner, you have the #1 seed, Fate Testarossa Harlaown, who flied the flag for the Nanoha franchise. She is an experienced, accomplished fighter who overcame a past that few could be able to survive to become one of the strongest mages in the world. Armed with Bardiche Assault, Fate is able to slice and dice anyone that stands in her way. Of course, she has the looks to back her artillery. Her blonde twin tails, naive nature and coolness have added to her consistent performances this season. Fate is also the only competitor that has yet to drop a match in the 2008 ISML Tiara postseason tournament. Her compatriot and best friend (and partner), Nanoha, declared that this year "...would be the year of the In-Joke," alluding to fate calling for Fate to prevail, because it was fate, after all.
On the other corner you have Yuki Nagato, who flies the flag for Haruhiists all over the planet. One of the greatest artificial humans since Rei Ayanami of Neon Genesis Evangelion, Yuki's paranormal abilities allow her to rebuild, restructure, and rethink how the world works. From superhuman strength, to picking up an instrument, to reformulating a baseball bat and restoring a classroom, it is no surprise that Yuki is in this final. In fact, oen may say that Yuki know that Fate wanted to face her long before her interview with Brian Griffin on the Lunch Hour on 97.1 WQHG earlier last week.
Now, the way the final works is as follows: Fate needs to win once to earn the Tiara. Yuki needs to win TWICE. If Yuki wins the first match (which I would think a number of people would do just to prolong the match to its final day), then we go to the November 7 runoff vote, the "Revelation of the Holy Tiara," round, which will determine the winner. Fate is keen to not let this go all the way to November 7, and the Bedlam is calling for Fate Testarossa to win the 2008 International Saimoe League championship.
BoBA Prediction: Fate by more than 100
BoBA Predictions: 2chan Saimoe 2008 final
BoBA Predictions:
2chan Saimoe 2008 final
Kagami Hiiragi vs Tsukasa Hiiragi
2chan Saimoe 2008 final
Kagami Hiiragi vs Tsukasa Hiiragi
I am a little bit surprised by this, and I am certain that the people who hate Lucky Star may shy away from voting on the second of November. It's going to be a sister war on 2chan. THat's right, you heard it: a sister war. To the utter disbelief of the doubters, Nagisa Furukawa and Hinagiku Katsura failed to halt the inevitable. With Tsukasa pulling off another upset, an impressive 1137-1096 win (in part due to the proxy votes), it's going to be a battle of the twins for the 2channel Saimoe 2008 crown.
And the Bedlam's prognostication can't go wrong this time. This crown is going to go to Kagami. It WILL go to Kagami, according to the pundits of conventional wisdom here on the Bedlam. A win by Tsukasa will indicate that the world has ended. In fact, it would be a flat-out travesty if Kagami Hiiragi does not win the 2chan Saimoe 2008 crown.
BoBA Predicts: Kagami Hiiragi wins by less than 100 votes.
Next up: My prediction for the ISML 2008 Tiara final. Fate Testarossa Harlown will be facing someone...but who?
Next up: My prediction for the ISML 2008 Tiara final. Fate Testarossa Harlown will be facing someone...but who?
Happy Halloween from the Bedlam!
I would like to wish everybody out there a Happy Halloween. Be sure to brush your teeth, kids, after munching on those sweet stuff. Also, keep an eye out for a few more Saimoe predictions to close off this 2008 season. Next week, I am going to talk about how the 2008 Election turned out, as well as the work I did at the polls.
Don't miss it. Here on the Bedlam.
"You did me wrong two years ago!" Wait, what?
This has to be one of the most hilarious, if not interesting things that happened to me today.
But people shouldn't take these types of so-called vendettas against them lightly. My advice to anyone that may have one against them is to talk them out of it, negotiate, or give them the could shoulder. Only when they brandish a weapon is when you go ahead and turn the tables on them, because it means your life is at stake.
This isn't anime or live-action drama, people. This is the REAL THING. And while it can give you an adrenaline rush, it could be one where your life is literally on the line.
I also have to pity this guy for labeling me a "nerd," without understanding anything about who I really am. This guy is not only concoss, but he is making his folks look terrible. (As if the recent news stories involving his folks brought enough bad press...) Besides, I don't believe in being burdened with such stigmas or labels anyway, given how far I've come.
Another thing to share: before my blood test, I saw a few people from the L.A. County Sheriff's Department handcuff some rube outside the Mental Health Center. He was in tears, on the ground and handcuffed, disheveled and emotionally wrecked. I just smiled and walked over to the entrance to get my blood drawn.
See, this is why I love this town. You get people with revenge on their minds, people getting handcuffed, people with issues that have debilitated them for umpteen days and weeks...it's awesome.
Really, it is.
So I was making making my way around town after I had my blood drawn for evaluation by the people at the Long Beach Mental Health Center. This Hispanic guy (who is affiliated with one of the crews in the area) says, "Hey, you look familiar."This is proof that if people don't know of your vendetta with them, then they pass off your claims as redundant jibjab. It's think they won't take seriously if you do not know who these guys are. I could have as easily went all out on this fella. But I was not in the mood for it, nor did I want to, since I had others things to do.
I said, "I do?"
He replied, "Yeah, you look like somebody I know. Somebody who did me wrong two years ago!"
"I think you are mistaken."
"I oughta get my revenge on you." He went on his spiel for the longest time. "What's you name?"
"Jo-Ryan," I said.
"You know what? I don't even care what your name is," he said.
I thought, "Idiot, that defeated the purpose of your previous question to me. Bloody bonehead. And you're still mistaking me for someone you are after."
He said afterwards, "Hey, you'd better quit talking shit behind other people's backs."
"I didn't come here to pick a fight with you scum and beat the likes of you. I'm here to take the next bus to Lakewood. You're wasting your time."
As I crossed the street to the bus stop at the corner of PCH and Long Beach Blvd., the Hispanic dude comes up to me and tries to get my attention, "Hey! HEY!" He even tried to whistle to get my attention. He failed.
The poor schmuck. He REALLY was picking on the wrong person to pick a fight with. And to think I had mental issues...
But people shouldn't take these types of so-called vendettas against them lightly. My advice to anyone that may have one against them is to talk them out of it, negotiate, or give them the could shoulder. Only when they brandish a weapon is when you go ahead and turn the tables on them, because it means your life is at stake.
This isn't anime or live-action drama, people. This is the REAL THING. And while it can give you an adrenaline rush, it could be one where your life is literally on the line.
I also have to pity this guy for labeling me a "nerd," without understanding anything about who I really am. This guy is not only concoss, but he is making his folks look terrible. (As if the recent news stories involving his folks brought enough bad press...) Besides, I don't believe in being burdened with such stigmas or labels anyway, given how far I've come.
Another thing to share: before my blood test, I saw a few people from the L.A. County Sheriff's Department handcuff some rube outside the Mental Health Center. He was in tears, on the ground and handcuffed, disheveled and emotionally wrecked. I just smiled and walked over to the entrance to get my blood drawn.
See, this is why I love this town. You get people with revenge on their minds, people getting handcuffed, people with issues that have debilitated them for umpteen days and weeks...it's awesome.
Really, it is.
BoBA Predictions: ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Final
BoBA Predictions:
Saimoe Triple Deal
Saimoe Triple Deal
I have decided to go right ahead and make three new predictions for the upcoming contests.
ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Final
The Cleansing of the Rusted Cities
New York, NY, USA
The Cleansing of the Rusted Cities
New York, NY, USA
I've been on a dry spell with my predictions. Since Loser's Bracket Round 2, I pick against Konata, and Konata wins. I pick in favor of Konata, and Konata loses.
Screw these voters; I am going to keep plugging away until we find the person that will get the 2008 ISML Tiara.
#7 Kagami Hiiragi vs. #6 Yuki Nagato
I have been on a dry spell with my predictions here. But I will not give up until we find out who gets the 2008 ISML Tiara, whether right or wrong. Let's be honest here: even so-called "experts" get trumped every now and then. There is no such thing as an expert when it comes to prognosticating any match.
Especially this one, taking place at the home of the 9/11 tragedy, New York City.
With that said, Fate Testarossa Harlaown already took off for Tokyo, with her supporters waving her farewell. Meanwhile, Yuki Nagato was able to stop Konata Izumi, 519-445. In a recent interview with Brian Griffin on The Lunch Hour, Fate had this to say. (The full text of the interview can be seen here.)
"You know, that's a tough question. Well, if you ask me, I would love to take on Yuki. I know she is off on her own after Haruhi got upset by Konata, but I would love send Yuki off the face of the earth. Literally and figuratively. But really, the reason is also this. I would have a tough time dealing wth Konata, to be honest. She could be the toughest opponent I could be facing on November 4. I mean, she has a track record of defeating some very good competitors in this tournament. Look at the opponents she has eliminated. Suigintou. Haruhi. Tomoyo Sakagami, who finished second to me in the overall regular season standings. Shana. Those are opponents she hasn't been able to win against, with the exception of Suigintou, in the regular-season round robin. To knock those folks off...that's impressive. I would be on my heels if it was me and Konata.
"As for Kagami, well, there is no question she is determined to even the score if she is able to take out either Yuki or Konata, but I'd like to take on someone different in the final. And for a change of pace. I want it to be me and Yuki competing for the Tiara."
Hey Fate, you'd be careful what you wish for there...it might actually come true. And if you ask me, I think it will. You want Yuki, you got Yuki. Because the Bedlam is calling for Yuki to win.
BoBA Predicts: Yuki by less than 100
2chan Saimoe 2008 Semifinals
At this point, we are also in the semifinals of the 2channel Saimoe tournament, and by the looks of things...it could be a sister war! Or will it? Hmmm. The Bedlam finds itself in a pinch after seeing the recent results for the Lucky Star crew. And so, it's calling for a match that some people are hoping for.
But first, the predictions.
BoBA Predicts: Nagisa Furukawa by more than 100
It's about the momentum. Or rather, moementum. Or to be precise, dango moementum. You talk about the only survivor from Clannad, and it is the main protagonist, Tomoya's wife, the mother of Ushio, the girl from the illusionary world, the one who summoned back the Big Dango Family. It's going to be Nagisa, who is slated to halt a sweep of her, Tomoyo and Kyou.
It's dango time.
BoBA Predicts: Hinagiku Katsura by more than 100
Hinagiku has been a bit off the radar...until now. If HIna wins the 2chan Saimoe 200, she will achieve a unique double: winning Korea and Japan in consecutive years (she won Korea Best Moe last year). Of course, Suiseiseki still has the honor of sweeping both sides of the East Sea of Japan in 2006, but times have changed.
Hina, after October passes, will be one win from a historical milestorm. The Bedlam calls for it.
Welcome back, Wombles.
I am reminded of Terry Brown, the manager of AFC Wimbledon talking about the implications of the FA Cup being called a "money spinner." By definition, the FA Cup is "something that generates a continuous income." There is a lot of publicity that goes into this tournament, through sponsorships and a burgeoning prize fund. So now, they are going to be on television in a first round proper tie.
Welcome back, you Dons.
---
The San Diego Toreros have put on one of the lousiest performances of the season, losing to Jacksonville, 30-29. If they go on a losing streak after this. I will not be surprised. This team has reached new depths of suckitude with this excuse of a defeat.
I can't count on any of these guys to even be within a sniff of the next level. Don't come calling for any of these turds, Canada.
---
I am starting to get a hankering for this new series, called Chaos;HEAd. This is based on another of those visual novel games (think Clannad, Kanon, Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni, etc.), and this is based in the ward where I got my handle of Hachiko...Shibuya City. The same place where Ran Kotobuki plied her trades.
They are also showing episodes of this at the CSULB Anime Club meetings this year, along with Nabari no Ou, Moyashimon, and Detroit Metal City.
I am warming to the likes of Rimi Sakihata. If she is in the running for ISML 2009 as an at-large, I am not going to be surprised.
FromOctober 25, 2008Cup collision course raises threat of pitched battle for soul of Wimbledon
Welcome back, you Dons.
---
The San Diego Toreros have put on one of the lousiest performances of the season, losing to Jacksonville, 30-29. If they go on a losing streak after this. I will not be surprised. This team has reached new depths of suckitude with this excuse of a defeat.
I can't count on any of these guys to even be within a sniff of the next level. Don't come calling for any of these turds, Canada.
---
I am starting to get a hankering for this new series, called Chaos;HEAd. This is based on another of those visual novel games (think Clannad, Kanon, Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni, etc.), and this is based in the ward where I got my handle of Hachiko...Shibuya City. The same place where Ran Kotobuki plied her trades.
They are also showing episodes of this at the CSULB Anime Club meetings this year, along with Nabari no Ou, Moyashimon, and Detroit Metal City.
I am warming to the likes of Rimi Sakihata. If she is in the running for ISML 2009 as an at-large, I am not going to be surprised.
Quick hits, October 24, 2008
So it's less than 11 days to the general election in November. Both sides are going all out with their ads to attack the other candidate, leaving the alienated independent voters in the dust. The mindset for me is: Let's get this over with. But it's only October 24. It ain't bloody November 4. Crikey. My impatience and anxiety will start to precipitate.
Where I will be working is just a short walk away. Near the Bedlam House, by a Filipino fish market and a couple hundred paces from a KFC, lies a fire station where my precinct will be voting. I thought I was set to vote at the Long Beach Job Corps. But I suppose having a lunchtime call with the Colonel over the results in Kentucky would be so bad. Actually, I think the polls down there won't close for a few hours. But I've got a few options for lunch. That's the important thing.
---
Meanwhile, I get some news from danbooru, a site that I normally visit (and one of the places where I forward deviants in case they are looking for sources for the shots I post on deviantART), and it's some humbling stuff.
Assholes.
Well, I don't really go there other to grab, fav and vote up images I like. And I don't post on the comments and the forums as much as I do on dA. But every now and then you need to have the wheels fall off to keep yourself on the ground at all times. And so the Senate In My Head passed an act to make it mandatory to give a proper reason for deletion for images flagged on danbooru.
---
We are already through two games of the 2008 World Series and we are all square at one game. This is looking quite good.
---
So now I am taking this new medication, called Depakote (Valproate semisodium), which allows me to treat these ADHD symptoms (which have reared their ugly head for the first time since my elementary and middle school days), and I have been responding well to them. I'm not as irritable, and I am more reserved in the way I talk and if I am allowed to whoop and holler, I do so. It's an interesting new pill that goes hand in hand with the Seroquel; but I may need to consider making some diet changes too.
---
Where I will be working is just a short walk away. Near the Bedlam House, by a Filipino fish market and a couple hundred paces from a KFC, lies a fire station where my precinct will be voting. I thought I was set to vote at the Long Beach Job Corps. But I suppose having a lunchtime call with the Colonel over the results in Kentucky would be so bad. Actually, I think the polls down there won't close for a few hours. But I've got a few options for lunch. That's the important thing.
---
Meanwhile, I get some news from danbooru, a site that I normally visit (and one of the places where I forward deviants in case they are looking for sources for the shots I post on deviantART), and it's some humbling stuff.
Frivolous flagging (post #336693 with reason "Do Not Want"). While the image in question isn't particularly good, it is about the third or fourth time he's flagged an acceptable image for deletion without a proper reason.I flag the right image that deserved to be kicked off the site...but I don't explain why. Essentially I wasn't doing what I normally would do on MiniTokyo (in that case, it would be because of poor quality, bad extractions, or a better version of the same image was posted, and I FULLY explain why).
Assholes.
Well, I don't really go there other to grab, fav and vote up images I like. And I don't post on the comments and the forums as much as I do on dA. But every now and then you need to have the wheels fall off to keep yourself on the ground at all times. And so the Senate In My Head passed an act to make it mandatory to give a proper reason for deletion for images flagged on danbooru.
---
We are already through two games of the 2008 World Series and we are all square at one game. This is looking quite good.
---
So now I am taking this new medication, called Depakote (Valproate semisodium), which allows me to treat these ADHD symptoms (which have reared their ugly head for the first time since my elementary and middle school days), and I have been responding well to them. I'm not as irritable, and I am more reserved in the way I talk and if I am allowed to whoop and holler, I do so. It's an interesting new pill that goes hand in hand with the Seroquel; but I may need to consider making some diet changes too.
---
BoBA Predictions: ISML 2008 Tiara Special Two-fer
BoBA Predictions:
A Special Two-fer!
I have to be convinced that Fate and Yuki stand in the way of a possible Konata vs. Kagami final. Shana was eliminated, and so was Kotomi, shutting Clannad out of contention. While Fuko Ibuki and Nagisa Furukawa still raise the banner for the series which has "Mag Mell" and "Dango Daikazoku" as its anthems, I have to be convinced that Fate Testarossa Harlaown and Yuki Nagato might surprise and shut out Lucky Star from the race.
But what about Konata Izumi? Mercy! The Legendary Girl A continues to defy its doubters and churn out miracle wins left and right. Suigintou. Haruhi. Tomoyo. Shana. Yuki could be next, and I am convinced to believe.
With that said, on to the predictions.
Winner's Bracket Final
Revelation of Wood, Metal, and Earth
Revelation of Wood, Metal, and Earth
Seoul, Korea Republic
#1 Fate Testarossa Harlaown vs. #7 Kagami Hiiragi
Who wouldn't love seeing a final between two Lucky lovers (in the eyes of the yuri fanpeople)? However, the top-rated seed is still alive, and continues her magical run towards flying the flag for her comrade, Nanoha Takamachi. Armed with her trusty weapon of all trades, the world-famous Bardiche Assault, Fate is two wins away from the Tiara.
In her way stands a committed Kagami Hiiragi. Riding on the momentum from a victory over Kyou in the 2chan Saimoe 2008 Group C final, she is committed to keeping the hopes of the Lucky ones alive. This is for her younger sister. This is for her older sisters. This is for Miyuki, and Yutaka, and Minami, and Misao, and Ayano, and Hiyori, and Pat, and even Konata. Most of all, this special moment is for her. With revenge on her mind, she will snap Fate's win streak and send her to the Loser's Bracket.
BoBA predicts: Kagami by less than 100
Loser's Bracket Round 5
The Cleansing of the Swaying Forests
Sao Paolo, Brazil
#12 Konata Izumi #6 Yuki Nagato
All right, I give up. Here are two candidates that I didn't call to advance, and yet here they are in Brazil, in the warm sunshine of Sampa, where a date with either Fate or Kagami awaits in New York. I have reason to think that Yuki is confident of getting payback for what Konata did to her superior, but at the same time, I am even more convinced that Konata is set to finish in the top three, rather than top four.
For the past few rounds in the Loser's Bracket, I picked against Konata. Well, I am going to be besides myself if Yuki wins this one, because she's going to be next to fall to the Konakona.
Seriously.
BoBa Predicts: Konata by less than 100
BoBA Predictions: ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Round 4
BoBA Predictions:
ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Round 4
The Cleansing of the Raging Waters
ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Round 4
The Cleansing of the Raging Waters
Somehow, I have to be convinced that Konata Izumi is going to be eliminated sooner or later from the ISML. She continues to prove the doubters wrong. After a close defeat to Kyou Fujibayashi, she pulls out major victories over Suigintou, Haruhi Suzumiya and now Tomoyo Sakagami. This really hasn't been a good day for Clannad's girls, with Kotomi being the only one remaining in this tournament. And she was barely able to defeat C.C. in Round 3.
#4 Shana vs. #12 Konata Izumi
Just my luck. After six days of voting...the Legendary Girl A is still alive. Even though the 2channel voters gave Konata the nod over Tomoyo, the ISML voters went the other direction. So now we have Shana facing Konata. The girl with the fire in her eyes takes on someone who will be remembered as a giant slayer. If Shana is the next one to fall to Konata, no one should be surprised as the battle in Kyoto rages on.
The Bedlam is hoping the third time is the charm in picking against Konata. Sooner or later, it's bound to happen.
BoBA picks: Shana by more than 100 votes
#8 Kotomi Ichinose vs. #6 Yuki Nagato
Here's a tantalizing match that will be worth taking a look. In the previous match between Yuki and Kotomi, the human supercomputer won by 30 votes. This time around, things will be quite different, with the match taking place in Sao Paulo. With opponents making amends for their prior defeats, thje onus is on Kotomi to keep the dream alive for a Clannad character to win the Tiara. But will it happen?
The Bedlam is going to say, "No." Yuki will keep the SOS Brigade's hopes alive for at least one more round, while Clannad is shut out of contention.
BoBA predicts: Yuki by less than 100 votes
October 16, 2008
I was feeling quite weird yesterday. I felt like I never really got that Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration. I must have been thinking, "What the heck, Jo-RYan? I thought you were done for the undergrad part of your educational career." And to be honest, I was feeling the same way. It's really unusual. Here I am, an MBA student, with finals, jury duty and election duty coming up...and I am at the bloody Garden, decked in my gray jacket and black trucer hat, my pennants, pom pom sticks and cowbell next to me, watching the home opener of the Long Beach State 49er Ice Hockey season.
The world must have ended.
I was talking via e-mail with Phil Goodman, the voice of 49er Ice Hockey (and a true patron of this club) about the upcoming season...and he e-mnailed me this message, "See you at the GArden on the 16th." I have this belief. If you pray for someone you remembered to come back, and pray real hard, who knows, it might actually come true."
I'm no god or angel. I'm a person with new priorities. I go to these events out of my own free will, not of duty like a year, or two, or three ago. It's now my choice to be here or to do something that requires my attention. Tonight was the night that I would show up. If I see one of the Beach Bandits here, the timing would be excellent.
Understanding the situation, I took a chug of Rockstar (Oh man, how I missed guzzling one of those down!), and headed off the Glacial Garden.
Now, I was really interested about two things. First, I wanted to see if we were in form early to make a better run than being stunned by San Jose State in Oakland last season. I was disgusted with our performance last season because we had high expectations, and we simply failed to meet them. These were unfulfilled expectations that weren't realized last year. The last thing I wanted was another year of abject failure.
The second thing was to see just how good this San Diego State side was. They went 6-0 against D-II opponents (sweeps of us and UNLV) as a D-II side, and finished as runner-ups. They had a strong start to their year, sweeping a double-header against USC, a team that I verbally chewed up in our final meeting with them at the Garden (and the team captain gave us the game puck, which is now enshrined in a glass case at the Beach Pride Center). The Trojans are a team we can beat this year, too. (We would be facing them Saturday.) We started on our year on the losing end of an obvious mismatch against Arizona State's first team (D-I) at Tempe (8-1 and 8-0, respectively), before getting our first win of the season against Loyola Marymount 6-1. But that result didn't tell me didly squat as to how good this 49er tyeam could be. This match, the home opened against the high-flying Aztecs, would tell us all we need to know.
The final score was San Diego State 8, Long Beach State 2. It's early in the season, and San Diego State is already in form, while LOng Beach State are nowhere close to it. As for the second qUestion, the Aztecs were exactly as advertised. If they make yet another move up, it's not going to surprise me. We were simply outclassed by these guys today. I made the over/under for people in the penalty box at 10. There were well more than that by the end of the game. And thus, our lack of character that hindered us last year was evident, as it reared its ugly head against San Diego.
But I also learned another thing. Personally, Frankie Mitrano doesn't have it. He does not have the skills to compete at the professional level as a goalie. No question, he will have his share of wins. But when you give up eight goals in one game-without being pulled-if I am a scout from some obscure league in a contry that doesn't even play ice hockey as a major sport, I wouldn't give this guy a second look. Keeping tabs on the Aztec keeper might be better.
If MItrano wants to prove me wrong, the onus is on him to do so. If this were the type of performance in an NCAA game, he'd be pulled after giving up three or four, because they have depth. And that's another thing this team is lacking.
We're just getting started with this season and already I am pondring what the coaches will need to look for on the recruiting trail in the offseason. For starters, getting a Carey Price-type of goalie times two or three might be a start.
Frankie was like a lamb led to a slaughter tonight. And he knew it.
The world must have ended.
I was talking via e-mail with Phil Goodman, the voice of 49er Ice Hockey (and a true patron of this club) about the upcoming season...and he e-mnailed me this message, "See you at the GArden on the 16th." I have this belief. If you pray for someone you remembered to come back, and pray real hard, who knows, it might actually come true."
I'm no god or angel. I'm a person with new priorities. I go to these events out of my own free will, not of duty like a year, or two, or three ago. It's now my choice to be here or to do something that requires my attention. Tonight was the night that I would show up. If I see one of the Beach Bandits here, the timing would be excellent.
Understanding the situation, I took a chug of Rockstar (Oh man, how I missed guzzling one of those down!), and headed off the Glacial Garden.
Now, I was really interested about two things. First, I wanted to see if we were in form early to make a better run than being stunned by San Jose State in Oakland last season. I was disgusted with our performance last season because we had high expectations, and we simply failed to meet them. These were unfulfilled expectations that weren't realized last year. The last thing I wanted was another year of abject failure.
The second thing was to see just how good this San Diego State side was. They went 6-0 against D-II opponents (sweeps of us and UNLV) as a D-II side, and finished as runner-ups. They had a strong start to their year, sweeping a double-header against USC, a team that I verbally chewed up in our final meeting with them at the Garden (and the team captain gave us the game puck, which is now enshrined in a glass case at the Beach Pride Center). The Trojans are a team we can beat this year, too. (We would be facing them Saturday.) We started on our year on the losing end of an obvious mismatch against Arizona State's first team (D-I) at Tempe (8-1 and 8-0, respectively), before getting our first win of the season against Loyola Marymount 6-1. But that result didn't tell me didly squat as to how good this 49er tyeam could be. This match, the home opened against the high-flying Aztecs, would tell us all we need to know.
The final score was San Diego State 8, Long Beach State 2. It's early in the season, and San Diego State is already in form, while LOng Beach State are nowhere close to it. As for the second qUestion, the Aztecs were exactly as advertised. If they make yet another move up, it's not going to surprise me. We were simply outclassed by these guys today. I made the over/under for people in the penalty box at 10. There were well more than that by the end of the game. And thus, our lack of character that hindered us last year was evident, as it reared its ugly head against San Diego.
But I also learned another thing. Personally, Frankie Mitrano doesn't have it. He does not have the skills to compete at the professional level as a goalie. No question, he will have his share of wins. But when you give up eight goals in one game-without being pulled-if I am a scout from some obscure league in a contry that doesn't even play ice hockey as a major sport, I wouldn't give this guy a second look. Keeping tabs on the Aztec keeper might be better.
If MItrano wants to prove me wrong, the onus is on him to do so. If this were the type of performance in an NCAA game, he'd be pulled after giving up three or four, because they have depth. And that's another thing this team is lacking.
We're just getting started with this season and already I am pondring what the coaches will need to look for on the recruiting trail in the offseason. For starters, getting a Carey Price-type of goalie times two or three might be a start.
Frankie was like a lamb led to a slaughter tonight. And he knew it.
BoBA Predictions: ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Round 3
BoBA Predictions:
ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Round 3
The Cleansing of the Erupting Volcanoes
ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Round 3
The Cleansing of the Erupting Volcanoes
In the last round, the Bedlam was right on the money with its predictions, with Fate and Kagami slated to fight in the Winner's Bracket Final on October 24. After this round, the field will be down to six.
#2 Tomoyo Sakagami vs. #12 Konata Izumi
Tomoyo and Konata are slated for another Thrilla in Manila, not unlike the epic Ali-Frazier match. For Konata, she is riding on the coattails of what is arguably her best victory of the entire season. To defeat her mentor, her role model, Haruhi Suzumiya, by one vote...that isn't an easy thing to do. But then again, things don't get any easier.
She faces Tomoyo Sakagami, one of the more well-rounded competitors of this tournament. Sure, she has no necklaces to her credit. But she has an impressive track record of victories, including a win over Konata. A proud competitor and active leader in student government blessed with sassy feet, she is looking to keep her ISML Tiara dream alive. Also, she was able to defeat Konata in their third round 2chan Saimoe match held earlier this month.
And while she was humbled by Kagami in the Winner's Bracket, she should have no issue against Konata. For the Legendary Girl A, her run stops here. At least this is what the Bedlam predicts.
BoBA Predicts: Tomoyo by less than 100 votes.
#11 C.C. vs. #8 Kotomi Ichinose
In Jakarta, Indonesia, where Krakatoa lies in wait, C.C. pulled off a shocker upset of her own, defeating Kyou Fujibayashi, avenging her previous defeat in the round robin stages. The question of C.C. being able to count higher than 20 was answered in her meeting with Hinagiku in the roundf robins, and it was answered again in the second upset of the Loser's Bracket.
For Kotomi Ichinose, this is, without question, a bit of surprise. Perhaps even she thought she was going to meet her execution against Kyou. But it turns out to be a free pass. Armed with her violin and sound wave arsenal, she is looking to make it two straight against the Pizza Girl. And thus, the Bedlam will call for it to happen.
BoBA Predicts: Kotomi by less than 100 votes.
BoBA Predictions: ISML 2008 Tiara Winner's Bracket Round 2
BoBA Predictions:
ISML 2008 Tiara Winner's Bracket Round 2
The Revelation of the Fire and the Water
ISML 2008 Tiara Winner's Bracket Round 2
The Revelation of the Fire and the Water
The Bedlam is going to be eating its crow for a few hours before heading back to the polls. The tsundere cause took a huge blow in the wallet, with Kyou and Haruhi exiting the tournament. This is proof that necklace victories don't matter in this phase, it's all about the results.
Nothing else.
#1 Fate Testarossa Harlaown vs. #4 Shana
And here is a rivalry that is akin to your USC-Notre Dames and Michigan-Ohio States of the world. Fla-Flu, Boca-River, Manchester United-Chelsea...Fate and Shana know each other very well. Maybe too well. In the previous meeting, Shana got the edge over Fate, but the girl bestowed with the power of Bardiche Assault is looking to even the score. The mayhem in Lagos, Nigeria, is going to come to a head, and payback will be the buzzword by the time this fight is over.
BoBA Predicts: Fate by less than 100 votes
#6 Yuki Nagato vs. #7 Kagami Hiiragi
This is a tantalizing battle in the heart of Cairo, Egypt. For Yuki, one of Haruhi's right-hand partners of the SOS Brigade, she represent the only hope for everyone she has worked with: Mikuru, Kyon and his little sister, Itsuki Koizumi, Ryoko Asakura...everybody down in Nishinomiya. For Kagami, she heads into the battle wondering about the possibilities. In her prior meeting, she lost by 22 votes. But if Konata can defeat Haruhi, she can do the same with Yuki, because she knows as well the power of that old adage: "Anything's possible."
BoBA Predicts: Kagami by less than 100 votes
BoBA Predictions: ISML Tiara 2008 Loser's Bracket Round 2
#9 Hinagiku Katsura vs. #2 Tomoyo Sakagami
The mystique of the Loser's Bracket of this phase is this: You lose, you are eliminated from the tournament with the other 48 who failed to make the cut. You win, you get to fight another day, against someone who has been relegated to this bracket from the Winner's Bracket. For Hinagiku Katsura, she had to fend off a valiant last stand from Tsukasa Hiiragi. But the big question lies: can she be able to fend off a second attack from Tomoyo Sakagami, an opponent that has dogged her on their first meeting? The Bedlam is confident that the road ends at the top of the mountains, and for Hinagiku, that means getting off the mountain...and out of the tournament. At least she will be back next year...
BoBA Predicts: Tomoyo by less than 100 votes
#12 Konata Izumi vs. #3 Haruhi Suzumiya
A a young Michigonian by the name of Marshall Mathers said it, "If you had one shot, one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted...one moment... would you capture it or just let it slip?" For Konata Izumi, this is a great opportunity to outwit the Master after losing a hotly contested match between Haruhi and her esteemed student, at the footside of the mountains. But can you stop someone who was, once again, on the losing end against an opponent that had an undefeated streak against?As the Bedlam sees it, the clear answer is no.
BoBA Predicts: Haruhi by less than 100 votes.
#11 C.C. vs. #5 Kyou Fujibayashi
For the likes of Kyou Fujibayashi, it was unfortunate that she suffered defeat at the hands of Shana in the first round of the wimmer's bracket. But even so, things won't get any easier, as she faces off against a determined C.C.. For the pizza girl, the witch of legend from Code Geass, she hopes to get her payback as the rocks come tumbling down nearby. While her fighting spirit has won the respect of the field, this is where the road ends for C.C.BoBA Predicts: Kyou by more than 100 votes
#15 Rika Furude vs. #8 Kotomi Ichinose
Rika Furude is one of the more underrated opponents of this tournament. While she was trounced by Tomoyo (an opponent she could likely face again in this bracket), she turned things around with a prediction-busting win over Nanoha Takamachi. The question for the Drunken Master is this: Can she do it against against an unassuming bookworm with a violin as a weapon of mass destruction (for the ears, at least)?While Rika raised a number of eyebrows with her payback win over the White Devil, the Bedlam believes that it will be difficult for her to pull a second straight upset against Kotomi.
BoBa Predicts: Kotomi by more than 100 votes.
BoBA Predictions: ISML 2008 Tiara Loser's Bracket Round 1
BoBA Predictions: ISML 2008 Tiara
Loser's Bracket Round 1
The Cleansing of the Shifting Deserts
Loser's Bracket Round 1
The Cleansing of the Shifting Deserts
We say farewell to four competitors this round, as the field is dwindled to 12.
#16 Tsukasa Hiiragi vs. #9 Hinagiku Katsura
Hina had no trouble disposing of Tsukasa in their previous meeting, so it will be a surprise if the balsamic vinegar patron, the younger sister of Kagami, is able to pull off a surprise upset. This has been a great campaign for Tsukasa, but this is where it ends for her.
BoBA Predicts: Hinagiku by at least 100 votes
#12 Konata Izumi vs #13 Suigintou
The advantage in this match goes to Konata, who defeated the junk doll in their regular season meeting. For the only Rozen Maiden representatative, these are the types of matches she feasts on, the "all-or-nothing" loser's bracket contests. The winner gets to fight another day. The loser is eliminated. In this match, the Legendary Girl A will survive.
BoBA Predicts: Konata by less than 100 votes
#14 Mai Kawasumi vs #11 C.C.
Here is one of the more tantalizing matches for voters to keep an eye on. C.C., the Pizza Hut-fueled witch from Code Geass vs the sword-wielding Mai Kawasumi from Kanon. This contest will be a battle worth rubbing your hands on. With C.C. winning the previous battle, this is a chance for her to make it two in a row...and survive.
BoBA Predicts: CC by less than 100 votes
#10 Nanoha Takamachi vs. #15 Rika Furude
"Hide the women and children, if they are still awake," says Larry Merchant, a veteran boxing commentator for HBO. Nanoha, a veteran of many battles over the years, holds an advantage over the defending 2chan Saimoe Champion. It's Raging Heart vs. Kimchi. White Devil vs. Drunken Master. And it will be Nanoha that gets the ascendancy.
BoBA Predicts: Nanoha by at least 100 votes
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