Some thoughts on the day and observations about current events…then you can go out and mow the yard and prepare the grill, or however you choose to ‘smoke’ on Memorial Day.

They’re yelling about the the New York Giants drafting Duke’s quarterback, Daniel Jones, sixth in the first round of the NFL draft.  I ask the question, who’s to question – Mel Kiper, Todd McShay included – before he ever plays, and why should we believe them?

His winning a fifth Master’s was gratifying to the hopes that each of us have for ourselves.  But will it make Tiger Woods what Jack and Arnie were, aside from golf?

There’s no more Chief Wahoo in Cleveland, or at least on the Indians’ uniforms, which tells me that major league baseball is willing to sell out to the highest bidder…and call it ‘diversity’.

After Thursday’s demonstration of who’s boss at Michigan State, I have one thing to say (again) to those who say that there’s no place for coaches with personalities like Tom Izzo.  All those (participation) trophies you have in your basement?  They don’t mean a thing.

We’re rapidly coming to a point where if we don’t want incidents to happen at basketball games that cannot be justified, or that overshadow the game itself, it’s time to face the reality that bad behavior deserves consequences.

No politics, no money, no harping about a wall. College baseball starts this weekend and all everyone wants is sun and the sound of ball meeting bat. All other issues are set aside for a boys game and hope that springs eternal.

Birthdays are a reminder as you get older…of what you have lost when parents pass on, and how much of what they taught you still rules your life.

There’s a fundamental reason why people hate winter, summer, hot, cold…and even an official’s call. It’s called control, and it has to be ‘fair’. After 65 years I’m not so sure.

When most people die too soon they leave a lot to be determined about how they’ll be remembered. Like everything else he did, Kevin Finfrock beat that rap. Everyone who really knew him remembers not only what he was, but what he grew to be.

More questions, and more conversation about officiating in the NFC and AFC Championship games. The state of Louisiana is threatening to sue. And how to make it better, if you even can. I say….I doubt it.

If you’re interested in those reality singing shows on TV (The Voice, etc.), or if you question whether American children work hard enough to showcase their skills – please take the time to watch three minutes of pianist Alexandra Dovgan.

I’m so tired of professionals who embarrass themselves, their team, and their family…I’m convinced that the Colts spent more time preparing to act badly Saturday than they did to play good football.

I’ve given up eating hot dogs over the years, and here’s why. Eat a hot dog at a high school game and you might forget the game, but remember the hot dog until the wee hours of the morning. But I’ve found some notable exceptions. Read on.

Unexpected by many, and long-anticipated by some, Urban Meyer’s decision to step down at Ohio State is no surprise at all if you look at Buckeye football with this inarguable perspective.

As always, there are inconsistencies with the final selections for the national championship playoff. But look at the bright side, all you ticked-off Buckeye fans. They got the best bowl game, and they play at a decent hour.

On the eve of the this year’s OHSAA state football tournament, some expanded on ideas on why our culture has such a tough time getting along…and the impression it sends to the very kids we seek to bring up positively. Plus, can you give me one good reason for hating the whole state of Michigan, beside someone told you to do it?

Faced with an odor from under my office desk…and house and home itself…this holiday season has started out with something a little different from the usual stocking stuffer.

Some followup thoughts on our recent Saturday column about Gettysburg, celebrations of history, and appreciation for the value of observation. Bottom line…if there’s a problem to solve check and see if someone hasn’t already done it.

To the endless question as to what’s wrong in America, and what would it take to make us better – and unified. Some commentary, and words, that put the perspective on where the responsibility belongs. And it’s not Washington!