As you should all be well aware, sleeping is soooooooo necessary. Without regular sleeping patterns, we are quite screwed. Maybe it's because I'm an old fogy now (21), but I'm not as restless as I once was. I now sleep a lot earlier than I used to and I really have started to notice how without it, much suffers. Take for example when I go to work. Without a good nights sleep I'll be tired and will not perform nearly as well as I could.
Tonight, I fell asleep quite early (try 8:30) and didn't get up until a short while ago. I'm not pleased about this because I'm one of those people that puts time into developing a regular sleeping pattern, and all it takes is one faltering move for me to screw it up (hopefully it's not this one). I'm gonna try to force myself to sleep now, because I really don't want to lose this pattern. My old pattern of my first, second and third year of university was simply to sleep when it felt good and sleep until i felt good (class be damned). With the pressure to perform a little better, I developed a pattern for success in both the workplace, and in the classroom. This pattern for success is sleeping 8 hours before I must wake in the morning.
How much sleep do you need? How important is it for your performance in the classroom/workplace to get a good night's sleep? These questions are asked in order for you to address them in the comments section if you so choose.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Another European Steal
Josh Childress, formerly of the Atlanta Hawks has decided to sign with a European team:
According to Slam Online:
"According to reports, he’s going to make almost $7 million a season, tax-free. I spoke to a Hawks source this morning who pointed out that for Josh to net the same amount of money in the NBA, he’s have to get a (pre-tax) contract worth over $10 million a season. And there’s no way the Hawks (or any other team, except for maybe the Knicks) can pay their 6th man that much scratch. $10 mil a season is starter money. Josh just had to go to Greece to be a starter. It sucks for the Hawks, but I don’t blame them at all. Josh is a great player, but at some point the Hawks have to be responsible financially. "
I personally am a big fan of Childress. A solid contributor as the sixth man of the Atlanta Hawks last season, Childress averaged 12 points and 5 rebounds. Very talented Stanford student, both smart and athletic. He was supposed to be a future star in the NBA, and now they've lost him. Just thought I would share this as basically a footnote to my first post yesterday.
According to Slam Online:
"According to reports, he’s going to make almost $7 million a season, tax-free. I spoke to a Hawks source this morning who pointed out that for Josh to net the same amount of money in the NBA, he’s have to get a (pre-tax) contract worth over $10 million a season. And there’s no way the Hawks (or any other team, except for maybe the Knicks) can pay their 6th man that much scratch. $10 mil a season is starter money. Josh just had to go to Greece to be a starter. It sucks for the Hawks, but I don’t blame them at all. Josh is a great player, but at some point the Hawks have to be responsible financially. "
I personally am a big fan of Childress. A solid contributor as the sixth man of the Atlanta Hawks last season, Childress averaged 12 points and 5 rebounds. Very talented Stanford student, both smart and athletic. He was supposed to be a future star in the NBA, and now they've lost him. Just thought I would share this as basically a footnote to my first post yesterday.
The Dark Knight Review
Roger Ebert, my favourite movie critic gave this movie one of his extremely rare four star (out of four) ratings. Who am I to disagree after having watched this film. The Dark Knight was a fabulous film and one of the greatest I have seen in quite some time. This is definitely the film of the year, and what I will suggest that it is the greatest "sequel" to have ever been made.
What I will reccomend to those of you who have not seen the first film of the new Batman series and want to see the second is that you whatch it. Though you can follow the second film without a viewing of the first, whatching it will allow you to make links between the two films and in my opinion, make the viewing experience more enjoyable.
Alright so on to the review... Batman has come across a villain (the Joker) who simply does not care about wealth and power. He's an absolute psychopath who simply enjoys making people's lives miserable. Lots of special effects (amazing) with an even better plot. As good as the special effects are, the performances of the superb cast also outdo them.
That's pretty much it in a nutshell... as per my promise in the last post, I do not want to spoil any part of the movie, for that would ruin the overall experience for you future viewers.
As for the acting, I can tell you all I want:
Christian Bale- in my estimation the greatest, most versatile actor who has ever lived. He is the best Batman ever. I love how his voice changes between his being Bruce Wayne and Batman. You can literally see the torment of a man who is pushed into very difficult moral dillemas from his arch enemy the Joker.
Heath Ledger- I cannot believe how amazing this role was played by Heath. Indeed it was his greatest performance, and one of the greatest acting performances of all time. A very complex character who was likely a great challenge to play. He blew Jack Nicholson's Joker into the sky (this is not an insult to Jack because he's a great actor... this point simply means that this is how GREAT Heath played the role). The Joker is a true villain and the movie makes sure to point out the difference between the "true" villain by comparing him to the other criminals in Gotham City. He cares nothing for money, and simply enjoys other peoples' pain. Oscar for Heath rumour.... they better be true.
Aaron Eckhart (Harvey Dent/Two-Face)- Right up there with the above two actors. Simply stupendous job in acting out the development of this villain and how he gradually came to be Two-Face. I thought Liam Neeson was a crucial part to making the first film so enjoyable. With Aaron and Heath performing so well, I didn't even miss him.
Gary Oldman (Commisioner Gordon)- an underrated actor who played his role very well. One part I really enjoyed was when the audience finds out how good and caring a guy this is when his family is at risk of death.
Maggie Gyllenhall (Rachel Dawes)- In all honesty, the one rough spot in this movie. People seem to be complaining that she isn't good-looking enough, and I could not disagree more. Not every actor can have my ten-point figure (I kid), and even still, I think she looks good. I think she was much of an improvement (in terms of acting) over Katie Holmes in the first film, but she still didn't quite cut it for me. This could also be a result of her being around such an experienced and talented bunch of actors. When you're around Michael Caine, Christian Bale, Morgan Freeman, Heath Ledger and Aaron Eckhart, it's safe to say that you are in some elite company.
Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox)- Simply the man... this guy is awesome
Michael Caine (Alfred)- Like Freeman, stupendous. Plays the Butler that attends to both Bruce Wayne and Batman. Equally clever and caring... simply no way to dislike this role.
So out of five, "The Dark Knight" gets a five. If you haven't seen this movie, I'll suggest finding out when the next show is and attending.
What I will reccomend to those of you who have not seen the first film of the new Batman series and want to see the second is that you whatch it. Though you can follow the second film without a viewing of the first, whatching it will allow you to make links between the two films and in my opinion, make the viewing experience more enjoyable.
Alright so on to the review... Batman has come across a villain (the Joker) who simply does not care about wealth and power. He's an absolute psychopath who simply enjoys making people's lives miserable. Lots of special effects (amazing) with an even better plot. As good as the special effects are, the performances of the superb cast also outdo them.
That's pretty much it in a nutshell... as per my promise in the last post, I do not want to spoil any part of the movie, for that would ruin the overall experience for you future viewers.
As for the acting, I can tell you all I want:
Christian Bale- in my estimation the greatest, most versatile actor who has ever lived. He is the best Batman ever. I love how his voice changes between his being Bruce Wayne and Batman. You can literally see the torment of a man who is pushed into very difficult moral dillemas from his arch enemy the Joker.
Heath Ledger- I cannot believe how amazing this role was played by Heath. Indeed it was his greatest performance, and one of the greatest acting performances of all time. A very complex character who was likely a great challenge to play. He blew Jack Nicholson's Joker into the sky (this is not an insult to Jack because he's a great actor... this point simply means that this is how GREAT Heath played the role). The Joker is a true villain and the movie makes sure to point out the difference between the "true" villain by comparing him to the other criminals in Gotham City. He cares nothing for money, and simply enjoys other peoples' pain. Oscar for Heath rumour.... they better be true.
Aaron Eckhart (Harvey Dent/Two-Face)- Right up there with the above two actors. Simply stupendous job in acting out the development of this villain and how he gradually came to be Two-Face. I thought Liam Neeson was a crucial part to making the first film so enjoyable. With Aaron and Heath performing so well, I didn't even miss him.
Gary Oldman (Commisioner Gordon)- an underrated actor who played his role very well. One part I really enjoyed was when the audience finds out how good and caring a guy this is when his family is at risk of death.
Maggie Gyllenhall (Rachel Dawes)- In all honesty, the one rough spot in this movie. People seem to be complaining that she isn't good-looking enough, and I could not disagree more. Not every actor can have my ten-point figure (I kid), and even still, I think she looks good. I think she was much of an improvement (in terms of acting) over Katie Holmes in the first film, but she still didn't quite cut it for me. This could also be a result of her being around such an experienced and talented bunch of actors. When you're around Michael Caine, Christian Bale, Morgan Freeman, Heath Ledger and Aaron Eckhart, it's safe to say that you are in some elite company.
Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox)- Simply the man... this guy is awesome
Michael Caine (Alfred)- Like Freeman, stupendous. Plays the Butler that attends to both Bruce Wayne and Batman. Equally clever and caring... simply no way to dislike this role.
So out of five, "The Dark Knight" gets a five. If you haven't seen this movie, I'll suggest finding out when the next show is and attending.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
The Dark Knight
Going to see this movie tonight, and I am really excited about it. I watched the first of this new Batman series of movies, and am much more pleased with them then the series that preceded it. Christian Bale is in my estimation, the most talented, multi-faceted actor to roam the earth and I can almost gaurantee that I will enjoy this film because of that fact. Never have I seen a movie of his that I have disliked. In case you are looking for some good Bale films, I will suggest Reign of Fire, Equilibrium, The Machinist, Harsh Times and Rescue Dawn (the last two are my favourite).
The late Heath Ledger plays the joker in this film, and I've also been a fan of his acting throughout the years. I hope that even though he has had great performances in his time that this is his best. Nothing can be more great than having your last film being your greatest performance.
Anyhow, I'll have a post up on this movie and how it was come tomorrow. I'll let you all know right now that all my movie reviews will not spoil the movie in any way. Acting will be a primary concern and the review will analyze and rate the plot without spoiling any of the films' conclusions.
The late Heath Ledger plays the joker in this film, and I've also been a fan of his acting throughout the years. I hope that even though he has had great performances in his time that this is his best. Nothing can be more great than having your last film being your greatest performance.
Anyhow, I'll have a post up on this movie and how it was come tomorrow. I'll let you all know right now that all my movie reviews will not spoil the movie in any way. Acting will be a primary concern and the review will analyze and rate the plot without spoiling any of the films' conclusions.
The NBA & NHL's Inevitable Expansion
So basically I started this blog to just plug away when unoccupied and write on such topics as sports, the philosophies of a great (and extremely odd) former professional lacrosse player/highschool teacher, food talk, movie reviews and basically any general thoughts that I would like to share with others. I always had a dream of being a radio/television broadcaster and also dreamt of being a writer. So basically, I'm gonna "live the dream" through this blog.
Anyhow, a friend of mine named Cory Snoddon writes a blog called "The Sports Blog," (http://snoddon.blogspot.com/), a very intriguing site that analyzes the happenings of the sports world. I believe that the posts give great insight into these happenings.
Anyhow, Cory had just written a post on the 17th of July entitled "NHL vs. KHL," a very insightful post that gives insight into the European influence on (former) NHL players, and how some of them such as Jaromir Jagr, Martin Straka, Ray Emery and Alexander Radulov have agreed to contracts to play in the KHL.
Corey states, "In my opinion, it may be about time that the NHL really pushes to move into European markets or at least see what the market place is like for the game."
Anyhow, what does this have to do with my blog?
Well, I basically came across several articles on one of the websites I visit daily (slamonline.com) which covers basketball from the highschool to professional levels. These articles referred to the European influence on pro basketball players. One article I came across was entitled "Europe Continues to Siphon Talent from the NBA." This article highlights the number of NBA players that are taking a step in the direction of their NHL counterparts and commiting to IBL teams across the ocean. The article mentions that so far, Raptors gaurd Carlos Delfino, Grizzlies gaurd Juan Carlos Navarro, Raptors Center Primoz Brezec are all heading overseas. And don't think they aren't getting paid either. It's rumoured that "Navarro, who earned $538,000 with the Grizzlies last season, was swayed by a deal that will pay him between $20million and $24 million over the next four years." If this trend continues, look out NBA.
It's also important to note that the #1 college recruit out of highschool did not choose to go to college, and instead chose to make six figures for a year in Europe. Although his SAT's and grades were by no means excellent, Brandon Jennings was still eligible to play for a Division One school. With the new rule of the NBA needing players to be one year removed from highschool, many of the great NBA prospects cannot just jump into the NBA, and instead must play one year of college basketball. Or so, this is what they thought. Jennings has very likely started a revolution with his decision to play in Europe. How many kids will follow his example and head overseas after highschool? And if they do, can you really blame them? Instead of making no money while the college makes a huge gross off of these kids for one year (millions of dollars), why can't these kids make six figures? My point with Jennings is that it only takes one for others to follow, and when it comes to getting paid, why not? It's not like these kids even want to play for four years in college anyways. They just want to get their year in and leave.
So now, back to Cory's quote that states, "In my opinion, it may be about time that the NHL really pushes to move into European markets or at least see what the market place is like for the game." Basically I want to agree with this statement when it comes to the NBA as well. David Stern, commissioner of the NBA has stated that within a decade the NBA will expand into Europe (Sports Illustrated, NBA mulling idea of five-team expansion in Europe). I say that both sports go right ahead and get'er done. On a side note, get rid of the dam one year removed from highschool rule in the NBA. It's not like these guys are going to go out and getting a degree anyways... probably don't even pass any classes.
In closing, if and when the NHL and NBA expansion into Europe occurs, it will be a necessary step for both leagues in #1- attracting a global audience & #2- keeping the most talented players in the most talented league of their respective sport.
It's been fun writing my first blog. Who knows when I'll post the next one, but I'll try and do a few articles every month or so.
Anyhow, a friend of mine named Cory Snoddon writes a blog called "The Sports Blog," (http://snoddon.blogspot.com/), a very intriguing site that analyzes the happenings of the sports world. I believe that the posts give great insight into these happenings.
Anyhow, Cory had just written a post on the 17th of July entitled "NHL vs. KHL," a very insightful post that gives insight into the European influence on (former) NHL players, and how some of them such as Jaromir Jagr, Martin Straka, Ray Emery and Alexander Radulov have agreed to contracts to play in the KHL.
Corey states, "In my opinion, it may be about time that the NHL really pushes to move into European markets or at least see what the market place is like for the game."
Anyhow, what does this have to do with my blog?
Well, I basically came across several articles on one of the websites I visit daily (slamonline.com) which covers basketball from the highschool to professional levels. These articles referred to the European influence on pro basketball players. One article I came across was entitled "Europe Continues to Siphon Talent from the NBA." This article highlights the number of NBA players that are taking a step in the direction of their NHL counterparts and commiting to IBL teams across the ocean. The article mentions that so far, Raptors gaurd Carlos Delfino, Grizzlies gaurd Juan Carlos Navarro, Raptors Center Primoz Brezec are all heading overseas. And don't think they aren't getting paid either. It's rumoured that "Navarro, who earned $538,000 with the Grizzlies last season, was swayed by a deal that will pay him between $20million and $24 million over the next four years." If this trend continues, look out NBA.
It's also important to note that the #1 college recruit out of highschool did not choose to go to college, and instead chose to make six figures for a year in Europe. Although his SAT's and grades were by no means excellent, Brandon Jennings was still eligible to play for a Division One school. With the new rule of the NBA needing players to be one year removed from highschool, many of the great NBA prospects cannot just jump into the NBA, and instead must play one year of college basketball. Or so, this is what they thought. Jennings has very likely started a revolution with his decision to play in Europe. How many kids will follow his example and head overseas after highschool? And if they do, can you really blame them? Instead of making no money while the college makes a huge gross off of these kids for one year (millions of dollars), why can't these kids make six figures? My point with Jennings is that it only takes one for others to follow, and when it comes to getting paid, why not? It's not like these kids even want to play for four years in college anyways. They just want to get their year in and leave.
So now, back to Cory's quote that states, "In my opinion, it may be about time that the NHL really pushes to move into European markets or at least see what the market place is like for the game." Basically I want to agree with this statement when it comes to the NBA as well. David Stern, commissioner of the NBA has stated that within a decade the NBA will expand into Europe (Sports Illustrated, NBA mulling idea of five-team expansion in Europe). I say that both sports go right ahead and get'er done. On a side note, get rid of the dam one year removed from highschool rule in the NBA. It's not like these guys are going to go out and getting a degree anyways... probably don't even pass any classes.
In closing, if and when the NHL and NBA expansion into Europe occurs, it will be a necessary step for both leagues in #1- attracting a global audience & #2- keeping the most talented players in the most talented league of their respective sport.
It's been fun writing my first blog. Who knows when I'll post the next one, but I'll try and do a few articles every month or so.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)