Oh Happy Day…

Before we recap the weekend, we at I’m just sayin… would like to congratulate my Labor Day cousin, Jane on her pending move back to the great state of South Carolina. I am excited and very happy that Jane and AJ will be moving back closer to home. I assume this means I will see them more than the zero times I saw them out in Wyoming. Oh… this also means I won’t have to follow Wyoming football next season. It’s a win-win. :)

If you follow me on twitter, you know by now that Winthrop beat Central Penn in convincing fashion. How good was it? A good friend of mine who I won’t name on here but who, I can tell you, sits next to me at Winthrop home games, told me #0 for WU (Derrick Henry) wasn’t really a shooter… he’s more a slasher. Derrick Henry then hit about 3 or 4 hundred 3 pointers. Ok, it wasn’t that many (that would have some kind of record), but he did hit enough for me to give my unnamed friend a hard time. The last time I remember this friend told me what to expect from a player (he said, “This Michael Jenkins kid is a 3-point specialist”… right before MJ bricked or air balled his next 3 or 4 3-point attempts. To be fair, and I always am, Jenkins did tie the record for 3 pointers in a game his junior season… and ended up being a great 3-point shooter (and all around player). Anyway, the point is the Eagles got into the win column for the first time this season. Maybe they found out how much fun winning is and will do it more often from now on.

Now, let’s look at how my predictions went this weekend…

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions Results

High School
I didn’t get my picks done in time to pick the Ashley Ridge game. Oh well…

College
#14South Carolina vs. #18Clemson – My family didn’t want to hear it. How could I pick against the Tigers? I could I say USC was going to win? Friends, as you know I don’t pick these games with my heart. I pick them using a very complicated formula that I went over last Saturday. Because of that formula, I picked the Revolutionary War Heroes to win the game and I was RIGHT! USC was inspired by the rumors that Jane was moving back to this great state to work at the school and it showed. USC won, 34-13. Congrats to all of my Revolutionary War Hero fans out there on USC’s 10 win season… and 3rd straight victory over Clemson. Dabo would be wise to remember the old Chinese Proverb: “He who loses 4 straight to his rival does not get a chance to lose 5 straight”. I’m just sayin…

Wyoming at #7Boise State – I picked Boise State to win this game and I was RIGHT! Wyoming lost, 14-36. What a bad weekend for Wyoming… first they lose the game, then they lose the Jane. HA! See what I did there? The game/the Jane? Ok, if I have to explain it then it won’t be funny…

NFL
Pittsburgh at Kansas City – I picked the Steelers to win this game and I was RIGHT! Pittsburgh won, 13-9.

Miami vs. Dallas – I missed picking this game.

I’m just sayin… Football Prediction Record

High School: 35-12

College: 51-15

NFL: 12-9

Overall: 98-36


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Staff Sergeant Clyde L. Choate (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 25, 1944 near Bruyeres, France. His citation reads:

He commanded a tank destroyer near Bruyeres, France, on 25 October 1944. Our infantry occupied a position on a wooded hill when, at dusk, an enemy Mark IV tank and a company of infantry attacked, threatening to overrun the American position and capture a command post 400 yards to the rear. S/Sgt. Choate's tank destroyer, the only weapon available to oppose the German armor, was set afire by 2 hits. Ordering his men to abandon the destroyer, S/Sgt. Choate reached comparative safety. He returned to the burning destroyer to search for comrades possibly trapped in the vehicle risking instant death in an explosion which was imminent and braving enemy fire which ripped his jacket and tore the helmet from his head. Completing the search and seeing the tank and its supporting infantry overrunning our infantry in their shallow foxholes, he secured a bazooka and ran after the tank, dodging from tree to tree and passing through the enemy's loose skirmish line. He fired a rocket from a distance of 20 yards, immobilizing the tank but leaving it able to spray the area with cannon and machinegun fire. Running back to our infantry through vicious fire, he secured another rocket, and, advancing against a hail of machinegun and small-arms fire reached a position 10 yards from the tank. His second shot shattered the turret. With his pistol he killed 2 of the crew as they emerged from the tank; and then running to the crippled Mark IV while enemy infantry sniped at him, he dropped a grenade inside the tank and completed its destruction. With their armor gone, the enemy infantry became disorganized and was driven back. S/Sgt. Choate's great daring in assaulting an enemy tank single-handed, his determination to follow the vehicle after it had passed his position, and his skill and crushing thoroughness in the attack prevented the enemy from capturing a battalion command post and turned a probable defeat into a tactical success.

Boatswain’s Mate First Class George Robert Cholister (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on October 20, 1924 while on board the USS Trenton. His citation reads:

For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession on the occasion of a fire on board the U S.S. Trenton. At 3:35 on the afternoon of 20 October 1924, while the Trenton was preparing to fire trial installation shots from the two 6-inch guns in the forward twin mount of that vessel, 2 charges of powder ignited. Twenty men were trapped in the twin mount. Four died almost immediately and 10 later from burns and inhalation of flames and gases. The 6 others were severely injured. Cholister, without thought of his own safety, on seeing that the charge of powder from the left gun was ignited, jumped for the right charge and endeavored to put it in the immersion tank. The left charge burst into flame and ignited the right charge before Cholister could accomplish his purpose. He fell unconscious while making a supreme effort to save his shipmates and died the following day.

Second Lieutenant Dale Eldon Christensen (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on July 16-19, 1944 at Driniumor River, New Guinea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty along the Driniumor River, New Guinea, from 16-19 July 1944. 2d Lt. Christensen repeatedly distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry above and beyond the call of duty in the continuous heavy fighting which occurred in this area from 16-19 July. On 16 July, his platoon engaged in a savage fire fight in which much damage was caused by 1 enemy machinegun effectively placed. 2d Lt. Christensen ordered his men to remain under cover, crept forward under fire, and at a range of 15 yards put the gun out of action with hand grenades. Again, on 19 July, while attacking an enemy position strong in mortars and machineguns, his platoon was pinned to the ground by intense fire. Ordering his men to remain under cover, he crept forward alone to locate definitely the enemy automatic weapons and the best direction from which to attack. Although his rifle was struck by enemy fire and knocked from his hands he continued his reconnaissance, located 5 enemy machineguns, destroyed 1 with hand grenades, and rejoined his platoon. He then led his men to the point selected for launching the attack and, calling encouragement, led the charge. This assault was successful and the enemy was driven from the positions with a loss of 4 mortars and 10 machineguns and leaving many dead on the field. On 4 August 1944, near Afua, Dutch New Guinea, 2d Lt. Christensen was killed in action about 2 yards from his objective while leading his platoon in an attack on an enemy machinegun position. 2d Lt. Christensen's leadership, intrepidity, and repeatedly demonstrated gallantry in action at the risk of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, exemplify the highest traditions of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Happy Birthday Allison!!!!!!

We would like to interrupt our regular posting to wish my oldest niece Allison a very HAPPY 13th Birthday!!!!!  In honor of Allison's birthday, we will look at 13 facts from 1998 that have nothing to do with her at all:

1 - I was a Sophomore at Winthrop and had yet to meet The Wife... ah, the good ol' days...

2 - Harry Caray, Sonny Bono, Carl Wilson, Lloyd Bridges, Frank Sinatra, Phil Hartman, Roy Rogers and Gene Autry all died.

3 - Tommy West was fired as the head coach of the Clemson football team after leading the team to a 3-8 record.  Tommy Bowden was hired to replace him.

4 - Brad Scott was fired as the head coach of the South Carolina football team after leading the team to a 1-10 record.  Lou Holtz was hired to replace him.

5 - Gregg Marshall started his first season as the head coach of the Winthrop men's basketball team.

6 - Google was founded.

7 - Elton John was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.

8 - The Top single was:  My Heart Will Go On (Celine Dion).

9 - The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, The Mamas & the Papas, Lloyd Price, Santana and Gene Vincent were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

10 - The top grossing film was Armageddon (followed by Saving Private Ryan).

11 - Lindsay Lohan, Taye Diggs, Jason Segel and Rebecca Romijin made their film debuts.

12 - Seinfeld aired it's final episode.

13 - That 70's Show aired it's first episode.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALLISON!!!!!!!  WE LOVE YOU!

The Big Game…

Yep, Winthrop hosts Central Penn today in front of what I’m sure will be a record setting crowd. Ok, the crowds at games my freshman year were about “church league” sized… so this crowd might not set a record, but I don’t plan on seeing too many people at the game. Seems there is something else going on in the state today...

Before we get to that, though, we at I’m just sayin… would like to congratulate No-Name Teri for her big accomplishment of passing her National Boards. This is a big deal and we are proud of her.

So back to this little football game. The thing that makes college football so great is rivalries. This, according to ESPN, is rivalry week. I know sports fans like to tell everyone that “their” rivalry is the best of them all. To be honest, you’re all wrong. Winthrop/Coastal Carolina is the best of them all. But we’re talking about college football, so I guess I won’t count WU/CCU. To be honest (and I think I’ve said this on here before), I don’t care if the nation thinks that Clemson/Carolina is the greatest football rivalry ever… as long as there is a TV station out there that thinks the game is worth showing on TV, I’m happy. For what it’s worth (and to you, it should be worth a lot), I think it’s the greatest football rivalry of them all. Army/Navy would be a very close second… so close that if you were to tell me Army/Navy should be first, I probably wouldn’t argue. By the way, why is it when I cheer for Navy or wear a Navy shirt, The Wife feels the need to point out I didn’t go to the Naval Academy nor was I in the Navy... yet she has no problem at all wearing a Clemson shirt and cheering for the Tigers? I don’t see her Clemson degree anywhere in the house. Let’s look at what makes a great college football rivalry.

Uh-oh... Did Daniel just hear my prediction for the game?

The I’m just sayin… 6 Keys to a Great College Football Rivalry

1. The schools must be in the same state. The exception to this rule is Army/Navy. That’s the only exception. Out of state schools could have a very good rivalry… but not great.

2. It’s not a must, but the game really should be at the end of the regular season most years.

3. If being in different conferences might end the rivalry (as the announcers of the Texas/Texas A&M and Pitt/West Virginia game are saying), then it’s not a great rivalry. A great rivalry will be played at all costs.

4. A great rivalry doesn’t need a cute name (Though we are willing to overlook this rule for the Iron Bowl). According to Wikipedia, this game is called the Battle of the Palmetto State. That’s not so much a name as it is an explanation of how much the game means.

5. Anyone can sell out a rivalry game when both teams are good… but a great rivalry game sells out when both teams enter the game with a combined 3 wins.

6. It also helps if there is somewhat of a balance throughout the state as far as fans go. This is, in my mind, what hurts Georgia/Georgia Tech… UGA owns that state. I’ve always pictured the Georgia Tech campus as being like West Berlin back in the day… this little piece of land surrounded by the enemy.

The I’m just sayin… Top 5 College Football Rivalries

1. Clemson/South Carolina
-First Game: 1896
-Overall Record: Clemson leads 65-39-4
-Last Five Games: 2006: 31-28 (USC); 2007: 23-21 (Clemson); 2008: 31-14 (Clemson); 34-17 (USC); 2010: 29-7 (USC)

2. Army/Navy
-First Game: 1890
-Overall Record: Navy leads 55-49-7
-Last Five Games: 2006: 26-14 (Navy); 2007: 38-3 (Navy); 2008: 34-0 (Navy); 2009: 17-3 (Navy); 2010: 31-17 (Navy)

3. Alabama/Auburn
-First Game: 1893
-Overall Record: Alabama leads 40-34-1
-Last Five Games: 2006: 22-15 (Auburn); 2007: 17-10 (Auburn); 2008: 36-0 (Alabama); 2009: 26-21 (Alabama); 2010: 28-27 (Auburn)

4. Florida/Florida State
-First Game: 1958
-Overall Record: Florida leads 33-20-2
-Last Five Games: 2006: 21-14 (UF); 2007: 45-12 (UF); 2008: 45-15 (UF); 2009: 37-10 (UF); 2010: 31-7 (FSU)

5. Southern Cal/UCLA
-First Game: 1929
-Overall Record: Southern Cal leads 43-28-7
-Last Five Games: 2006: 13-9 (UCLA); 2007: 24-7 (USC); 2008: 28-7 (USC); 2009: 28-7 (USC); 2010: 28-14 (USC)

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions

High School
I didn’t get my picks done in time to pick the Ashley Ridge game. Oh well…

College
#14South Carolina vs. #18Clemson – 7:45pm (ESPN) – Both teams are entering the game looking for win #10. Typically, when I go to pick a game I look at a number of things before making my pick. First, I try to visualize how the game will go. This dates back to my days playing baseball at James Island High. Back then, I would start visualizing a game the night before the game and continue doing that until about two hours before the game. This might explain why I wasn’t the best student during the baseball season. This game, for some reason, has been hard for me to picture. So the next thing I look at is school colors. This doesn’t help me either in this case because each school has a favorite color of mine (Orange and Garnet), but neither has my #1 favorite color (Blue… specifically Royal Blue). So that takes us to the next thing… mascot. Of course, at face value this would seem to favor Clemson because I don’t care who you are… you’ve got to take a Tiger over a Gamecock… assuming that gamecock is the bird. But not so fast, my friends… what if that Gamecock is not a bird but is, in fact, a Revolutionary War Hero? Then I think it’s back to a toss-up. Next, of course, I look at who my friends are cheering for. In the past I might pick Clemson just to spite the sob Carolina fans I knew because, in all fairness, they were jerks. But that’s not the case now. Now the Carolina fans I see the most are nice people who I really like… which is good, but it doesn’t help me pick the winner. I can tell you this… I will be pulling for Clemson to win. I can also tell you that no matter who wins the game, my life will not change for better or worse. Dabo’s mood doesn’t sour when I have a bad day at work, so why should mine sour when he has a bad day? Having said that, I can also tell you that… for my money… Clemson fans shouldn’t kid themselves into thinking this game isn’t as important as the ACC Championship game next Saturday. Why? Two reasons: 1. As I told my brother-in-law Brent, think back on what you would consider the “best” Clemson football seasons. How many of them included a loss to USC? Exactly. 2. Think about how many Virginia Tech or Virginia fans you see daily. What do you think you’ll hear about more throughout the year… a loss to them in the championship game… or a 3rd straight loss to USC? Exactly. And spare me the “A win next Saturday means more because it will get Clemson a BCS bowl birth” argument. What’s so great about that? More money for the school? I’ve got news for you… they ain’t gonna lower ticket prices next year because they made more money on the bowl trip this year. Besides… who says you can’t win this Saturday and next Saturday? Anyway, back to this Saturday. I think it comes down to this: If the Tigers can score more than the Revolutionary War Heroes, Clemson will win this game. However, if the Revolutionary War Heroes can keep the Tigers from scoring more than them, USC will win this game. If I felt Clemson had just an average Tiger defense, I’d pick them… but as it stands right now… with it being a night game in Columbia… with Melvin Ingram playing… I’m picking the South Carolina Revolutionary War Heroes to win this game. Speaking of Melvin Ingram, my strategy for the Clemson offensive line would be to hold him on every play. What are the odds the refs would throw a flag on every play? And while I’m picking USC to win, it’s not like I don’t think Clemson has a chance. The good news for the Tigers is the weakest part of USC’s team is their offense. So if the Clemson offense goes back to its early season form, things could go well for the Tigers. But I’m still picking USC to win this game.

The shirt in this picture provided by Danny (yes, that Danny)

Wyoming at #7Boise State – 12:00pm MT (The Mtn. HD) – I’m picking Boise State to win this game.

NFL
Pittsburgh at Kansas City – 8:20pm (NBC) – I’m still picking the Steelers to win this game.

Miami vs. Dallas – I missed picking this game since it was played yesterday… Oops.

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Captain Marcellus H. Chiles (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 3, 1918 near Le Champy Bas, France. His citation reads:

When his battalion, of which he had just taken command, was halted by machinegun fire from the front and left flank, he picked up the rifle of a dead soldier and, calling on his men to follow led the advance across a stream, waist deep, in the face of the machinegun fire. Upon reaching the opposite bank this gallant officer was seriously wounded in the abdomen by a sniper, but before permitting himself to be evacuated he made complete arrangements for turning over his command to the next senior officer, and under the inspiration of his fearless leadership his battalion reached its objective. Capt. Chiles died shortly after reaching the hospital.

Scout Chiquito (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions during the winter of 1871-1873. His citation reads:

Gallant conduct during campaigns and engagements with Apaches.

Private William W. Chisman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 22, 1863 at Vicksburg, Mississippi. His citation reads:

Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!

We at I’m just sayin… would like to wish all of you a very Happy Thanksgiving! We have a lot to be thankful for and we hope you do, too.

I am thankful for The Wife and am lucky to have her (just ask her if you don’t believe me).

I am thankful for my three great children.

I am thankful for Jeremy and Rebecca and my Godson, Lucas.

I am thankful that the cartoons I grew up with are now on DVD.

I am thankful for the cartoons today that don’t stink… like Veggie Tales and Phineas and Ferb. I love Phineas and Ferb.

I am thankful for TV shows like NCIS, Psych and Modern Family.

I am thankful for Winthrop basketball… sure, they’ve started this season 0-5… but I still enjoy it.

I am thankful for Maverick.

I am also thankful for Scooby… because he makes me realize how lucky I am to have Maverick.

I am thankful that I have a family who lives all over the state and not all over the country or world.

I am thankful that I don’t know what Sonny’s outgoing voicemail message sounds like because he always answers the phone when I call.

I am thankful that No-Name Teri seldom answers the phone when I call (and rarely calls me back)… because she makes me realize how lucky I am that Sonny answers my calls.

I am thankful for Danny (yes, that Danny) and his wife (my favorite nurse) Jen; my buddy Adrian and her dead-to-me husband Michael; long-time I’m just sayin… fan Ashley and Cory (Husband of Ashley); of course my good friend and fellow blogger KC and his lovely wife LA; my friends from the House of Clark (Clark and Jenn) and all of friends who I won’t name on here for fear that I will forget someone.

Speaking of friends… I’m thankful that I have a group of friends who, when they found out I had ranked them, did not turn on me but instead did their best to move up in the poll. How great is THAT?!

I’m thankful that my cousin Susan is going to let me be the opening act for her wedding. What? Was she not going to do that? Oh well, it’s on the internet so I guess she can’t say no now…

I am thankful for these guys




The oldest and youngest living Medal of Honor Recipients

I am thankful for my parents, aunts and uncles.

I am thankful that I got to know 3 of my 4 grandparents. Sure, I wish it would have been 4 of 4… but when I think about how many people don’t know any of their grandparents (or worse, don’t have a good relationship with them) it’s hard for me to complain about my situation.

I’m thankful for college football… and college basketball… and college baseball.

I am also thankful for the NFL, MLB and the fact that the NBA is in the middle of a lockout.

I am thankful for my books.

I am thankful that starting December 12, I will have a new job (though I will miss the people I work with now).

I am thankful I got to play baseball for the best high school baseball coach at the best high school baseball program and with the best teammates.

I am thankful for good music and great movies.

I am thankful for good comedians.

I am thankful that we have a working, seldom used oven. Funny story: Last night I’m pulling up to KFC to get some wings that I had been craving all day. The Wife calls to tell me the oven is on fire. What are the odds that the one time this month she decides to use it, it catches on fire? Anyway, it’s sparking and she decides that with my extensive fire fighting skills (over 30 years of blowing out candles) I’m the person she should call. I tell her to get the fire extinguisher and (after checking to make sure it would work on electrical fires) use it. Hindsight being 20/20, I would have told her to try turning the breaker off first. She asks where I am and I tell her I’m about to walk into KFC (she knew I was going there). She makes it clear that she doesn’t want me to go into KFC… instead, she wants me to rush home. Here’s the thing, I was hungry. Not only that… I was sure she would get the fire out before I got home. Finally, if she was not comfortable fighting the fire, she should have called the fire department. But no… I had to go home (without my wings) to find out that… wait for it… wait for iiiitttttt……. She had already put the fire out (by turning off the breaker… after making a mess with the fire extinguisher). Long story short, someone (I won’t name names) now has an excuse for not cooking.

I am thankful it wasn’t our microwave that caught fire.

I’m thankful that I live in a country where I can go to church and not have to worry about getting in trouble.

And I am thankful for you, my readers.

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions

High School
Summerville at Byrnes – I picked Byrnes to win this game and I was RIGHT! Summerville lost, 20-56.

Ashley Ridge vs. Stratford – I picked Stratford to win this game and I was WRONG! Ashley Ridge won, 24-21.

Dorman at Gaffney – I picked Dorman to win this game and I was WRONG! Dorman lost, 3-33.

College
#14South Carolina vs. The Citadel – I picked USC to win this game and I was RIGHT! The Revolutionary War Heroes won, 41-20.

#7Clemson at NC State – I picked Clemson to win this game and I was WRONG! The Tigers lost this game, 13-37.

Navy at San Jose State – I picked Navy to win this game and I was WRONG! Navy lost, 24-27.

CSU at Presbyterian College – I picked PC to win this game and I was RIGHT! CSU lost, 14-45.

Wyoming vs. New Mexico – I picked Wyoming to win this game and I was RIGHT! Wyoming won, 31-10.

Appalachian State at Elon – I picked Appalachian State to win this game and I was RIGHT! Appalachian State won, 28-24.

NFL
Pittsburgh at Kansas City – Oops… looks like I jumped the gun on this game. The Steelers were off last Sunday. I’ll pick this game this week.

Miami vs. Buffalo – I picked Buffalo to win this game and I was WRONG! Miami won, 35-8.

I’m just sayin… Football Prediction Record

High School: 35-12

College: 49-15

NFL: 11-9

Overall: 95-36



Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Major Ralph Cheli (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 18, 1943 near Wewak, New Guinea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action with the enemy. While Maj. Cheli was leading his squadron in a dive to attack the heavily defended Dagua Airdrome, intercepting enemy aircraft centered their fire on his plane, causing it to burst into flames while still 2 miles from the objective. His speed would have enabled him to gain necessary altitude to parachute to safety, but this action would have resulted in his formation becoming disorganized and exposed to the enemy. Although a crash was inevitable, he courageously elected to continue leading the attack in his blazing plane. From a minimum altitude, the squadron made a devastating bombing and strafing attack on the target. The mission completed, Maj. Cheli instructed his wingman to lead the formation and crashed into the sea.

Corporal Benjamin H. Child (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 17, 1862. His citation reads:

Was wounded and taken to the rear insensible, but when partially recovered insisted on returning to the battery and resumed command of his piece, so remaining until the close of the battle.

Second Lieutenant Ernest Childers (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 22, 1943 at Oliveto, Italy. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty in action on 22 September 1943, at Oliveto, Italy. Although 2d Lt. Childers previously had just suffered a fractured instep he, with 8 enlisted men, advanced up a hill toward enemy machinegun nests. The group advanced to a rock wall overlooking a cornfield and 2d Lt. Childers ordered a base of fire laid across the field so that he could advance. When he was fired upon by 2 enemy snipers from a nearby house he killed both of them. He moved behind the machinegun nests and killed all occupants of the nearer one. He continued toward the second one and threw rocks into it. When the 2 occupants of the nest raised up, he shot 1. The other was killed by 1 of the 8 enlisted men. 2d Lt. Childers continued his advance toward a house farther up the hill, and single-handed, captured an enemy mortar observer. The exceptional leadership, initiative, calmness under fire, and conspicuous gallantry displayed by 2d Lt. Childers were an inspiration to his men.

Happy Birthday Michael!!!!

I don't have time for a regular post today... I'm just stopping by the I'm just sayin... offices to wish my good friend Michael a Happy Birthday!  While he is still dead to me for missing the Lake Weekend earlier this month, I still hope he has a happy birthday.  So, Happy Birthday Michael!

Where has the week gone?

If you’re friends with The Wife on Facebook then you probably saw this picture:

She said Susie was like Steve Martin in The Jerk. I just need this… and this… and this…

I would pay good money to hear Susie say, “My story? Okay. It was never easy for me. I was born a poor black child”.

I can’t believe it’s already Friday. I’ve been busy (again) at work and home, so I don’t have time to post all of these thoughts I’ve got bouncing around in my head. So, I’ll just post my picks…

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions

High School
Summerville at Byrnes – I’m picking Byrnes to win this game.

Ashley Ridge vs. Stratford – I’m picking Stratford to win this game.

Dorman at Gaffney – I’m picking Dorman to win this game.

College
#14South Carolina vs. The Citadel – 12:00pm (PPV) – The Revolutionary War Heroes are looking for win #9. The Citadel is looking to party like it’s 1990. I think the USC defense will carry the day… I’m picking USC to win this game.

#7Clemson at NC State – 3:30pm (ABC) – I hear a lot of people saying this game “doesn’t matter”. I think it does matter. Clemson is going for win #10… something they haven’t seen since 1990. I’m picking Clemson to win this game.

Navy at San Jose State – 4:00pm (ESPN3) – I’m picking Navy to win this game.

CSU at Presbyterian College – 1:00pm – I’m picking PC to win this game.

Wyoming vs. New Mexico – 12:00pm MT (The Mtn. HD) – I’m picking Wyoming to win this game.

Appalachian State at Elon – 3:00pm – I’m picking Appalachian State to win this game (because they aren’t USC and this isn’t a basketball game).

NFL
Pittsburgh at Kansas City – 8:20pm (NBC) – I’m picking the Steelers to win this game.

Miami vs. Buffalo – 1:00pm (CBS) – I’m picking Buffalo to win this game.

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Private John F. Chase (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 3, 1863 at Chancellorsville, Virginia. His citation reads:

Nearly all the officers and men of the battery having been killed or wounded, this soldier with a comrade continued to fire his gun after the guns had ceased. The piece was then dragged off by the two, the horses having been shot, and its capture by the enemy was prevented.

Gunner’s Mate Second Class John Purnell Chatham (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 13, 20, 21 and 22, 1900 in China. His citation reads:

In action with the relief expedition of the Allied Forces in China, 13, 20, 21 and 22 June 1900. During this period and in the presence of the enemy, Chatham distinguished himself by his conduct.

First Lieutenant Benjamin H. Cheever, Jr. (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 1, 1891 at White River, South Dakota. His citation reads:

Headed the advance across White River partly frozen, in a spirited movement to the effective assistance of Troop K, 6th U.S. Cavalry.

Congrats Clemson

We at I’m just sayin… would like to start our post today by reminding Sonny that today is his anniversary.

(We will now pause 5 minutes to give Sonny time to send a quick text/email to Terry wishing her a Happy Anniversary… and to let her know he figured out why she was so mad this morning).

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Sonny and Terry! Who knew you two crazy kids would last this long? No, really… who knew? It seems I have misplaced the pool sheet I had showing who bet on what year. Anyway, it probably doesn’t matter… I’m not sure anyone thought it would last this long. I’m pretty sure I had Sonny dying of “natural causes” by their 5th Anniversary. I believe this is now their 19th Anniversary. Congrats!

Congrats also to the Clemson Tigers for winning the ACC Atlantic. I’m pretty sure I predicted they would do it. I’m not sure I posted it… might not have even told anyone. I think I told Maverick. I don’t know if I specifically said they would win the Atlantic this season… but I am sure I have said (and posted on here) that Tony Elliott is a winner and that if Clemson brought him on the staff they would start winning. So I’m going to count this as me being right.

Now let’s take a look at how my predictions were this weekend.

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions

High School
Summerville vs. Fort Dorchester – I picked Summerville to win this game and I was RIGHT! Summerville won, 28-27.

Ashley Ridge vs. Laurnes – I picked Ashley Ridge to win this game and I was RIGHT! Ashley Ridge won, 48-7.

Dorman at Sumter – I picked Dorman to win this game and I was RIGHT! Dorman won, 46-21.

College
#15South Carolina vs. Florida – I knew the Revolutionary War Heroes wouldn’t let me down again. I picked USC to win this game and I was RIGHT! USC won, 17-12.

#9Clemson vs. Wake Forest – Again, I knew the Tigers wouldn’t let me down again. I picked Clemson to win this game and I was RIGHT! Clemson won, 31-28.

Navy at SMU – I picked Navy to win this game and I was RIGHT! Navy won, 24-17.

CSU vs. Coastal Carolina – I picked CSU to win this game and I was WRONG! CSU lost, 38-45.

Wyoming at Air Force – I picked Air Force to win this game and I was WRONG! Wyoming won, 25-17.

Appalachian State vs. Western Carolina – I picked Appalachian State to win this game and I was RIGHT! Appalachian State won, 46-14.

NFL
Pittsburgh at Cincinnati – I picked Cincinnati to win this game and I was WRONG! The Steelers won, 24-17.

Miami vs. Washington – I picked Miami to win this game and I was RIGHT! The Dolphins won, 20-9.

I’m just sayin… Football Prediction Record

High School: 34-10

College: 45-13

NFL: 11-8

Overall: 90-31

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Gunner’s Mate First Class George Charette (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 2, 1898 in Santiago de Cuba. His citation reads:

In connection with the sinking of the U.S.S. Merrimac at the entrance to the harbor of Santiago de Cuba, 2 June 1898. Despite heavy fire from the Spanish batteries, Charette displayed extraordinary heroism throughout this operation.

Hospital Corpsman Third Class William R. Charette (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 27, 1953 in Korea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy aggressor forces during the early morning hours. Participating in a fierce encounter with a cleverly concealed and well-entrenched enemy force occupying positions on a vital and bitterly contested outpost far in advance of the main line of resistance, HC3c. Charette repeatedly and unhesitatingly moved about through a murderous barrage of hostile small-arms and mortar fire to render assistance to his wounded comrades. When an enemy grenade landed within a few feet of a marine he was attending, he immediately threw himself upon the stricken man and absorbed the entire concussion of the deadly missile with his body. Although sustaining painful facial wounds, and undergoing shock from the intensity of the blast which ripped the helmet and medical aid kit from his person, HC3c. Charette resourcefully improvised emergency bandages by tearing off part of his clothing, and gallantly continued to administer medical aid to the wounded in his own unit and to those in adjacent platoon areas as well. Observing a seriously wounded comrade whose armored vest had been torn from his body by the blast from an exploding shell, he selflessly removed his own battle vest and placed it upon the helpless man although fully aware of the added jeopardy to himself. Moving to the side of another casualty who was suffering excruciating pain from a serious leg wound, HC3c. Charette stood upright in the trench line and exposed himself to a deadly hail of enemy fire in order to lend more effective aid to the victim and to alleviate his anguish while being removed to a position of safety. By his indomitable courage and inspiring efforts in behalf of his wounded comrades, HC3c. Charette was directly responsible for saving many lives. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.

Sergeant Cornelius H. Charlton (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 2, 1951 near Chipo-ri, Korea. His citation reads:

Sgt. Charlton, a member of Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. His platoon was attacking heavily defended hostile positions on commanding ground when the leader was wounded and evacuated. Sgt. Charlton assumed command, rallied the men, and spearheaded the assault against the hill. Personally eliminating 2 hostile positions and killing 6 of the enemy with his rifle fire and grenades, he continued up the slope until the unit suffered heavy casualties and became pinned down. Regrouping the men he led them forward only to be again hurled back by a shower of grenades. Despite a severe chest wound, Sgt. Charlton refused medical attention and led a third daring charge which carried to the crest of the ridge. Observing that the remaining emplacement which had retarded the advance was situated on the reverse slope, he charged it alone, was again hit by a grenade but raked the position with a devastating fire which eliminated it and routed the defenders. The wounds received during his daring exploits resulted in his death but his indomitable courage, superb leadership, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself the infantry, and the military service.

Happy Veterans Day!

We at I’m just sayin… would like to start off today by wishing all the Veterans out there a very happy Veterans Day. As you know, I have the highest for these men and women and would like to say thank you for your service.

HAPPY (late) 30th BIRTHDAY to my friend LA (the better half of kcandla.blogspot.com)! I was going to post a happy birthday message for her on her birthday, but I wanted to wait for my friend KC to post something before I did.

Mary Ruth had a project due today at school. She had to decorate a picture of a turkey. She and The Wife worked on it while they were both home sick the past two days. On my way home from work last night, The Wife tells me that Maverick ate the turkey project. You have to know that in situations like this when The Wife blames Maverick, she’s really saying Scooby did it… she just doesn’t want to admit to me that Scooby is an a-hole. How did this happen, you ask? It seems they used fruit loops to decorate the turkey… and then left it on the kid’s table. Who (besides me and everyone else except The Wife and Mary Ruth) would have thought that would be a bad idea? So anyway, The Wife emailed Mary Ruth’s teacher last night to explain what happened. Yep, she’s not even in 1st grade and we’ve already had to use the “My dog ate my homework” excuse.

Before I forget… If there’s anyone out there who can record the Clemson game for me tomorrow, I would appreciate it.

I know you are as excited as I am that the college basketball season has started back up. Winthrop’s first real game is tomorrow and I can’t wait to see The Eagles take the floor to tip off the 2011-2012 season. Coach Randy Peele and his Eagles are coming off a disappointing season and trouble filled off-season, so I’m sure they are also excited to get back to playing games. I have a good feeling for this season. I think Winthrop will win the Big South and make another trip to the NCAA Tournament.

So, a couple of days ago Joe Pa retired only to be fired later in the day. I’ll try to post my thoughts on this situation sometime next week. I don’t have time to get into it right now.

Hey, The Wife and I have TiVo now! We got a hand-me-down TiVo box from her grandparents. It’s an older box that I don’t think they even sell anymore. It isn’t HD or HD ready or anything like that… but that’s ok because we don’t have any HD TVs in our house. We’re waiting to see if that HD stuff is just a fad. Anyway, the important thing is that we’ve joined the TiVo/DVR world so now like all of you, we can record our favorite shows only to delete them without watching them to make room for more shows. Still, it feels good knowing that now we have more than one shot at watching our favorite shows.

Of all the awards shows out there, I enjoy the CMA awards show the most. Speaking of country music, have you heard that Luke Bryan song “Country Girl (Shake It For Me)”? Looks like country music may have finally found the song that will help it break into the all important strip club market.

Looks like it’s playoff time in high school football… when are those guys going to get smart and create a bowl system? I guess they don’t care about academics the way schools that play Division 1-A college football do…

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions

High School
Summerville vs. Fort Dorchester – I’m picking Summerville to win this game.

Ashley Ridge vs. Laurnes – I’m picking Ashley Ridge to win this game.

Dorman at Sumter – Hmm… I don’t really have a feel for this game… I guess I’m going to pick Dorman to win.

College
#15South Carolina vs. Florida – 12:00pm (CBS) – This is a big game for USC if they want to have a shot at the SEC East. I know the Revolutionary War Heroes let me down last week against Arkansas, but I’m sticking with them this week. I’m picking USC to win this game.

#9Clemson vs. Wake Forest – 12:00pm (ESPNU) – This is a big game for Clemson if they want to have a shot at the ACC Atlantic. The Tigers let me down in their last game at Georgia Tech, but I’m sticking with them this week. I’m picking Clemson to win this game.

Navy at SMU – 3:30pm (FOX Sports Net) – I’m picking Navy to win this game. I mean, this isn’t the same SMU from the ‘80s… their payroll isn’t nearly that high now.

CSU vs. Coastal Carolina – 1:30pm – I don’t care how bad CSU is, I can’t and won’t pick Coastal Carolina to win. Therefore, I will pick CSU to win this game.

Wyoming at Air Force – 12:00pm MT (The Mtn. HD) – I’m picking Air Force to win this game.

Appalachian State vs. Western Carolina – 3:30pm – I’m picking Appalachian State to win this game.

NFL
Pittsburgh at Cincinnati – 1:00pm (CBS) – Hmm… on the road… I think the Steelers might stumble in this game. I’m picking Cincinnati to win this game.

Miami vs. Washington – 1:00pm (FOX) – The only reason I am going to pick a team to win this game is because I think the rules say someone is going to win this game. So I’m going to pick Miami to win this game.

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Scout Amos Chapman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 12, 1874 at Washita River, Texas. His citation reads:

Gallantry in action. (In 1916, the general review of all Medals of Honor deemed 900 unwarranted. This recipient was one of them. In June 1989, the U.S. Army Board of Correction of Records restored the medal to this recipient.)

Private John Chapman (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 6, 1865 at Sailors Creek, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of flag.

Landsman Louis G. Chaput (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864 while on board the USS Lackawanna. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Lackawanna during successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the rebel ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Severely wounded, Chaput remained at his gun until relieved, reported to the surgeon and returned to his gun until the action was over. He was then carried below following the action which resulted in the capture of the prize ram Tennessee and in destruction of batteries at Fort Morgan.

I DID IT!!!!!!

I finally got an email read on the Tony Kornheiser Show! Go here and click on the 11-04-11 show (hour 2). The emails are read near the end of the show. For any of you not really on top of things, I’m Greg from Summerville. Perhaps I’m more of a big deal than even I realize… What do I mean? You’ll see…

Before I go on… RIP Smokin’ Joe Frazier (67). He fought Ali back when boxing was worth watching and the commentators were worth listening to.

RIP also to rapper Heavy D (44). As you know, this is the Heavy D from Heavy D and the Boyz. They had some good hits back in the 1990’s if my memory is correct.

What is wrong with the world? I’ve worried about bad stuff happening to my girls since the day they were born… now I’ve got to worry about Daniel, too?! Of course I’m talking about this local story and this national story.

As I told you last Friday, I had a big weekend planned and I’m happy to tell you that everything was as great as I thought it would be. Let me start by thanking Jim, Deeny, Mom, and Dad for blocking off this past weekend at the Lake House (Da Casa BaNana2) in an effort to help me bribe my friends to… well… stay friends with me. I think it worked… because everyone was a LOT nicer to me after they saw the place than they were in the days/weeks/months/years leading up to this past weekend. Due to legal reasons, I cannot tell you about everything that happened over the weekend. I can, however, tell you that a good time was had by all. And while I can’t speak for everyone, I can tell you that I stayed up later on back to back nights than I have in a long, long time. Pictures were taken and I’m sure they will find their way onto the internet at some point. Not everyone I invited was able to make it. My friend Adrian was sick and had to stay home. Adrian, if you read this I want you to know that I’m sorry you couldn’t make it. You were missed. Her husband also missed. He was not sick. Michael, if you read this I want you to know that I am sorry you decided not to come even after Adrian told you to. You are dead to me.   :)

I did give my friends a little gift for the weekend:

And here is a picture of the lake... the water level was down just a tad. But that was ok… with everything else to do at the house, we didn’t have any time to go out on the lake anyway.

My idea was to put a paper towel sheet down on the ground so that it looked like it had soaked up the water from the lake. The Wife thought that was a stupid idea (I know because when I told it to her, she rolled her eyes and said “That’s a stupid idea”). Now I wish I had done it. For what it’s worth, the water level was better when we left. It wasn’t great… but it was better.

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions Results

High School
James Island at West Ashley – I picked James Island to win this game and I was WRONG! JI lost, 11-29.

Summerville at Colleton County – I picked Summerville to win this game and I was RIGHT! Summerville won, 21-7.

I didn’t pick the Ashley Ridge game last week.

Dorman vs. Woodmont –I picked Dorman to win this game and I was RIGHT! Dorman won, 45-7.

College
#10South Carolina at #8Arkansas – I picked the Revolutionary War Heroes to win this game and I was WRONG! USC lost, 28-44.

#11Clemson – The Tigers were off last week.

Navy vs. Troy – I picked Navy to win this game and I was RIGHT! Navy won, 42-14.

CSU vs. Stony Brook – I picked Stony Brook to win this game and I was RIGHT! CSU lost, 31-50.

Wyoming vs. TCU – I picked TCU to win this game and I was RIGHT! Wyoming lost, 20-31.

Appalachian State at Furman – I picked Appalachian State to win this game and I was WRONG! Appalachian State lost, 10-20.

NFL
Pittsburgh vs. Baltimore – I picked Pittsburgh to win and I was WRONG! The Steelers lost, 20-23.

Miami at Kansas City – I picked Kansas City to win this game and I was WRONG! The Dolphins won, 31-3.

I’m just sayin… Football Prediction Record

High School: 31-10

College: 41-11

NFL: 10-7

Overall: 82-28

Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Quartermaster Sergeant Stephen E. Chandler (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on April 5, 1865 at Amelia Springs, Virginia. His citation reads:

Under severe fire of the enemy and of the troops in retreat, went between the lines to the assistance of a wounded and helpless comrade, and rescued him from death or capture.

Seaman Apprentice August Chandron (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on November 21, 1885 on board the USS Quinnebaug. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Quinnebaug, Alexandria, Egypt, on the morning of 21 November 1885. Jumping overboard from that vessel, Chandron, with the aid of Hugh Miller, boatswain's mate, rescued William Evans, ordinary seaman, from drowning.

Private Alaric B. Chapin (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on January 15, 1865 at Fort Fisher, North Carolina. His citation reads:

Voluntarily advanced with the head of the column and cut down the palisading.

Just picks…

I’ve got a big weekend planned… maybe I’ll let you know how it went on Monday (at least the parts that are ok to share). I’m still getting things ready, so I just have time to post my picks today.

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions

High School
James Island at West Ashley – I’m picking James Island to win this game.

Summerville at Colleton County – I’m picking Summerville to win this game.

Ashley Ridge played last night so I won’t be picking this game this week.

Dorman vs. Woodmont –I’m picking Dorman to win this game.

College
#10South Carolina at #8Arkansas – 7:15pm (ESPN) – It won’t be easy, but I think the Revolutionary War Heroes will find a way to win this difficult SEC road game.

#11Clemson – The Tigers are off this week.

Navy vs. Troy – 3:30pm (CBS Sports Network) – I’m picking Navy to win this game.

CSU vs. Stony Brook – 1:30pm – I’m picking Stony Brook to win this game.

Wyoming vs. TCU – 12:00pm MT (The Mtn. HD)– I’m picking TCU to win this game.

Appalachian State at Furman – 1:30pm – I’m picking Appalachian State to win this game.

NFL
Pittsburgh vs. Baltimore – 8:20pm (NBC) – I think the Steelers will get some revenge in this game. I’m picking Pittsburgh to win.

Miami at Kansas City – 1:00pm (CBS) – I’m picking Kansas City to win this game.


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Corporal David B. Champagne (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on May 28, 1952 in Korea. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a fire team leader of Company A, in action against enemy aggressor forces. Advancing with his platoon in the initial assault of the company against a strongly fortified and heavily defended hill position, Cpl. Champagne skillfully led his fire team through a veritable hail of intense enemy machine gun, small-arms, and grenade fire, overrunning trenches and a series of almost impregnable bunker positions before reaching the crest of the hill and placing his men in defensive positions. Suffering a painful leg wound while assisting in repelling the ensuing hostile counterattack, which was launched under cover of a murderous hail of mortar and artillery fire, he steadfastly refused evacuation and fearlessly continued to control his fire team When the enemy counterattack increased in intensity, and a hostile grenade landed in the midst of the fire team, Cpl. Champagne unhesitatingly seized the deadly missile and hurled it in the direction of the approaching enemy. As the grenade left his hand, it exploded blowing off his hand and throwing him out of the trench. Mortally wounded by enemy mortar fire while in this exposed position, Cpl. Champagne, by his valiant leadership, fortitude, and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of almost certain death, undoubtedly saved the lives of several of his fellow marines. His heroic actions served to inspire all who observed him and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Sergeant Henry F. Chandler (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on June 17, 1864 at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Though seriously wounded in a bayonet charge and directed to go to the rear he declined to do so, but remained with his regiment and helped to carry the breastworks.

Coxswain James B. Chandler (US Navy) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on August 5, 1864 while on board the USS Richmond. His citation reads:

On board the U.S.S. Richmond during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. Cool and courageous although he had just come off the sick list, Chandler rendered gallant service throughout the prolonged action as his ship maintained accurate fire against Fort Morgan and ships of the Confederacy despite extremely heavy return fire. He participated in the actions at Forts Jackson and St. Philip, with the Chalmette batteries, at the surrender of New Orleans and in the attacks on batteries below Vicksburg.

Happy November

Wow… It’s already November! Before we get too far into this post, let me take a minute to wish my Uncle Keith a very happy (late) birthday! His birthday was this past Sunday, but I didn’t have a chance to post anything on here until now. HAPPY (late) Birthday Uncle Keith!

We at I’m just sayin… hope you had a fun Halloween. I was going to take Mary Ruth trick-or-treating last night, but she decided she would rather hand out candy. She’s such a sweet girl always thinking about others first… reminds me of me. Here are a couple of pictures from this past Saturday. Our babysitter called us wanting to know if she could take the girls (free of charge) to the trunk-or-treat thing that was going on at the church where Susie and Daniel go to day care. Susie is a witch and Mary Ruth is a princess. I didn’t pick out the costumes but it’s hard to argue with how it played out. Daniel is dressed as a football player (and like the other football players in that uniform that night, he didn’t do much). Haha. I was dressed as a “River Float Gorilla”. The number on my shirt is 29475… that’s the zip code of the river float I went on a couple of years ago.

So, I learned Saturday night that The Wife takes a sporting event loss a lot harder than I do. She was not happy after the Clemson game this past Saturday night. I guess these past nine years have conditioned me for losing more than they have her. She sees the loss and gets mad. I see it, and then put a DVD in of the 2002 Clemson/Ga. Tech game and watch it. Clemson won that game and my friend Tony Elliott had 3 catches (one for a TD). Does that make up for this loss? No… but it made me feel better and that’s what really matters (to me). As far as this past Saturday night… I was more upset that Brent and Herbie were calling the Stanford/other-USC game and not this one. Oh well… maybe if the Tigers and Revolutionary War Heroes win out, they will be the announcers for that game.

Some post-Halloween thoughts:

*If you are at the age where you are too “cool” to wear a costume and/or say “trick or treat”, then you are too “cool” to get candy from me.

*There is NO REASON for anyone in my neighborhood to drive to trick or treat. As if childhood obesity isn’t bad enough.

*If someone gives you candy, say thank you.

*If you put a bowl of candy out on the porch with a sign that says “Take One”… don’t think for a minute that kids will just take one. I mean really, that’s like putting a bowl of candy in front of Scooby and expecting him not to eat any because there’s a sign that says “Not for you, Donkey”.

*If your porch light is on, don’t get mad if kids come knocking on your door.

*If the porch light is off, don’t knock on the door.

*I don’t know what the rules are at other houses as far as when trick-or-treating should start or end, but here’s how it is at my house. We “open” for kids a little after 6:00pm (after we’re done eating supper), but should anyone come before then I will give them candy. Why? Because it’s usually the smallest kids that come around early. I turn off the lights and close the door at 8:30pm. Why? Because I don’t feel the need to keep my house open any later than that to hand out candy. When I ran a store with paying customers, I closed at 6:00pm… so I think I’m being pretty dang generous keeping my light on until 8:30 to give some kid (and at that time of night, usually an older kid) candy.

*If you really don’t want kids to trick or treat at your house, just put apples out every year. After a few years of doing that, kids will start walking by your house like it isn’t even there. Trust me… or ask Sonny or No-Name Teri if you don’t believe me.

The I’m just sayin... Football Predictions Results

High School
James Island vs. Stratford – I picked Stratford to win and I was RIGHT! JI lost, 0-31.

Summerville vs. Beaufort – I picked Summerville to win this game and I was WRONG! Summerville lost, 7-17.

Ashley Ridge at Goose Creek – I picked Goose Creek to win this game and I was RIGHT! Ashley Ridge lost, 3-65.

Dorman at Byrnes –I picked Dorman to win this game and I was WRONG! Dorman lost, 10-31.

College
#14South Carolina at Tennessee – I picked USC to win this game and I was RIGHT! The Revolutionary War Heroes won, 14-3.

#6Clemson at Georgia Tech – I picked Clemson to win this game and I was WRONG! Clemson lost, 17-31.

Navy at Notre Dame – I picked Navy to win this game and I was WRONG! Navy lost, 14-56.

CSU at Gardner-Webb – I picked Gardner-Webb to win this game and I was RIGHT! CSU lost, 7-14.

Wyoming at San Diego State – I picked Wyoming to win this game and I was RIGHT! Wyoming won, 30-27.

Appalachian State vs. Georgia Southern – I picked Appalachian State to win this game and I was RIGHT! Appalachian State won, 24-17.

NFL
Pittsburgh vs. New England – I picked Pittsburgh to win this game and I was RIGHT! The Steelers won, 25-17.

Miami at New York Giants – I picked NY to win this game and I was RIGHT! Miami lost, 17-20.

I’m just sayin… Football Prediction Record

High School: 29-9

College: 38-9

NFL: 10-5

Overall: 77-23


Know Your Medal of Honor Recipients:

Second Lieutenant Orville T. Chamberlain (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on September 20, 1863 at Chickamauga, Georgia. His citation reads:

While exposed to a galling fire, went in search of another regiment, found its location, procured ammunition from the men thereof, and returned with the ammunition to his own company.

Private Joseph P. Chambers (US Army) received his Medal of Honor for his actions on March 25, 1865 at Petersburg, Virginia. His citation reads:

Capture of colors of 1st Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).

Colonel Justice M. Chambers (US Marine Corps) received his Medal of Honor for his actions from February 19-22, 1945 on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. His citation reads:

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the 3d Assault Battalion Landing Team, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, from 19 to 22 February 1945. Under a furious barrage of enemy machinegun and small-arms fire from the commanding cliffs on the right, Col. Chambers (then Lt. Col.) landed immediately after the initial assault waves of his battalion on D-day to find the momentum of the assault threatened by heavy casualties from withering Japanese artillery, mortar rocket, machinegun, and rifle fire. Exposed to relentless hostile fire, he coolly reorganized his battle-weary men, inspiring them to heroic efforts by his own valor and leading them in an attack on the critical, impregnable high ground from which the enemy was pouring an increasing volume of fire directly onto troops ashore as well as amphibious craft in succeeding waves. Constantly in the front lines encouraging his men to push forward against the enemy's savage resistance, Col. Chambers led the 8-hour battle to carry the flanking ridge top and reduce the enemy's fields of aimed fire, thus protecting the vital foothold gained. In constant defiance of hostile fire while reconnoitering the entire regimental combat team zone of action, he maintained contact with adjacent units and forwarded vital information to the regimental commander. His zealous fighting spirit undiminished despite terrific casualties and the loss of most of his key officers, he again reorganized his troops for renewed attack against the enemy's main line of resistance and was directing the fire of the rocket platoon when he fell, critically wounded. Evacuated under heavy Japanese fire, Col. Chambers, by forceful leadership, courage, and fortitude in the face of staggering odds, was directly instrumental in insuring the success of subsequent operations of the 5th Amphibious Corps on Iwo Jima, thereby sustaining and enhancing the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.