It is Monday night, and the Lions are playing the Packers in a nationally televised game. Rather than watching the Lions, I am listening to the Tiger’s game versus the White Sox while I am writing this blog. I think my watching football games is going to be minimalized for a while. Last year I swore off the Lions if Matt Patricia was coach, and I swore off the Wolverines if Dan Brown was the defensive coach. Even though both coaches have been let go and are no longer coaching, I still cannot get back into watching either team. I have no problem checking scores and watching highlights but sitting down and watching either of these teams is probably not going to happen anytime soon.
I love the way the Tigers bounced back on Saturday following a devastating loss to the first place Tampa Bay Rays on Friday in which they blew a three-run lead in the ninth inning. They easily could have folded up the tent and went through the motions for the remainder of the series. Instead, they won tight games on both Saturday and Sunday to split the series and continue their winning record against playoff bound teams. Manager A.J. Hinch and pitching coach Chris Fetter are having a major impact on this team. They are playing at a high level, with their bullpen leading the way. The bullpen is second in ERA in the American League since the all-star break. This coming off-season is going to be critical for the Tigers. The current players must work to up their game while general manager Al Avila must decide on whether to enter the free agency market to strengthen the team. It is great to have a team that is fun to watch even when they lose.
Last Thursday my good friend and golf partner Frank Wagner, who turns 81 next month, shot a 77 at Crooked Tree Golf Course, accomplishing one of golfs great achievements by shooting less than your age for 18 holes. I was keeping score for the round and Frank would allow me to tell him how he was doing during the round. It was only when he was putting on the 18th green that I told him how he was doing.
It was a confusing weekend regarding covid-19 booster shots. Being over 65 and being an asthmatic, I think I qualify for a booster, but I am not sure when I can get it. Do I have to wait 8 months from my second vaccine or can I get it now prior to the 8-month waiting. I will keep reading and consult my physician. Confusing and scarry times.
Per the NY Times today, A man in Arkansas and another in Illinois on Monday filed what appeared to be the first legal actions under a strict new abortion law in Texas that is enforced by ordinary citizens, regardless of where they live. The Arkansas man, Oscar Stilley, who was described om the complaint as a “disbarred and disgraced” lawyer, said in an interview that he had filed the lawsuit against a Texas doctor, who publicly wrote about performing an abortion, to test the provisions of the law. The Supreme Court declined to stop the law, which has effectively ended most abortions in the state since going into effect this month. The law bars enforcement by state officials, a novel maneuver aimed at circumventing judicial review, and instead relies on citizens to file legal claims against abortion providers or anyone suspected of “aiding or abetting” an abortion. Successful suits can bring the plaintiffs awards of at least $10,000.
Stay safe. Social distance. Wear your mask when appropriate. Wash your hands regularly. Schedule your vaccine.
Orchid for the Day: Frank Wagner, 80 years of age, for shooting a 77 at Crooked Tree Golf Course
Onion for the Day: The new Texas abortion law. Let the lawsuits begin.
Quote of the Day: “Having the opportunity to drive Frank around the golf course yesterday, was one of life’s great honors. He was like a Renaissance master, every stroke of his golf clubs were pure perfection. Sorry, I’m tearing up. However, most importantly, all the credit goes to me. Why you ask? Admittingly, I can be a bit too chatty, (Franks own assessment, not mine) however; yesterday I was like the stoic 300-pound front door attendant at a cheap “titty bar” checking ID’s. “Yes Frank, come right into the club, Trixie LaTure, is doing her famous pole dance, remember to keep your putter where it belongs!” Did I mention Frank was putting lights out yesterday? Congratulations you old coot, great round.” Jeff Hamel, who played golf with Frank Wagner and me last Thursday when Frank shot less than his age.
I am honored to be a part of your blog. The Old Coot. Frank