Sunday, December 31, 2006

BACK IN 2007

Hello there folks:
I would like to thank you for bearing with me while the football season, specifically the FANTASY football season ran its course. For those of you who don't know, I run the league and write a weekly newsletter. During this time, I don't always have time to write both the blog and the newsletter. I also didn't want to be redundant, writing the same thing in two places.

So, now the season is completed. I ended up coming in 2nd place after waxing most of the league during the regular season. My team underperformed in the Championship game, and I ended up the runner-up. Best finish since 1999, so I'm happy.

Beginning this week, I will be back to blogging on a regular basis, spewing the love that I know you all crave. I have some new thoughts and I hope I can win back your hearts to being the staunch, rabid minions that you were through the middle part of 2006.

That being said, I'd like to wish all of you a very Happy, Healthy, and prosperous New Year. I hope 2007 brings you the success and peace that you all deserve and I'm hoping Len Is Right will give you meaningful insight as the year progresses. if nothing else, I hope I inspire a few laughs.

Take care everyone, and Happy New Year.
Len Tollerton

Sunday, December 03, 2006

DECEMBER HAS COME

Hello there my friends:
It has been over a week since my last post. December has hit us this weekend, and the great Weather Gods have sent us a reminder in the Northeast that winter is finally here. Late last week we were treated to a couple of 60-plus degree days to end November. This morning, it's freezing outside. I guess I'm done playing golf for the year.

Hey, we attended the wedding of good friends, Rob and Melissa, on Friday evening. The reception took place at the Mohawk River Country Club in Rexford, NY. What a great time. If you live in the Capital District of NY, and you're planning a wedding, you should definitely consider this place. The cocktail hour before dinner was fantastic, with more food than you could shake a stick at. I'm surprised some people had room left for dinner, after the appetizer spread that was put on. You don't normally see a pasta station and a steak sandwich station, along with a chilled vodka area with caviar for just appetizers. At least not around here.

Dinner was Chateaubriand AND A French-style chicken, which everyone got...you didn't need to choose. Music was provided by DJ Mr. C (our former Amtrak friend, Isaac Cancer). The bride looked great and the groom looked happy and couldn't wait to fly to Florida to board a cruise ship for the Caribbean the next day.

I'd like to thank the Bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Keevern and Mr. and Mrs. Sicko for throwing such a great party and feeding us like kings.

I'd also like to wish Rob and Melissa Lindley the best of luck and many, happy years as a couple. You two are both great people and I'm honored to be able to call you my friends. I wish you the best for a very long time.

I'd also like to wish my brother-in-law, Dave Oppe a very happy 39th Birthday (Dec. 2), as well as a happy 41st to our friend Sally Theadore. I know Dave is not happy about getting so close to 40.....his sister, my wife, was the same way. But it's unavoidable and you're only as old as you allow yourself to feel. Stay positive and you'll always feel young. Go the negative route and you'll always be old and bitter and crabby. Real fun for the rest of us who live around you.

And remember, things could always be worse. You know that Len Is Right.

I am,
Len Tollerton

Friday, November 24, 2006

GIVING THANKS

Hello people:
This, the day after Thanksgiving, I just wanted to say one short thing. Oftentimes, as we sit around the table with friends or family, waiting to eat, we say Grace, or prayers, or whatever. Sometimes we go around the table and everyone says what they're thankful for this year.

Well, we're all thankful for something. Many of us have alot more to be thankful for than others. However, in my opinion, even if you're somewhat destitute, on drugs, in prison, a New Orleans resident, or depressed, I think as long as you live in America, you have something to be thankful for.

For as screwed up and possibly corrupt as the American government can be, I don't think I'd want to live anywhere else. We can go where we want, say what we want, be what we want and with whom we want (for the most part), and explore whatever noble pursuit or depravity that we'd like.

For overall beauty, of the land and its women, for overall fun activities and opportunities, for serious art and Jerry Springer on TV, there is nowhere like the good old US of A. We are all lucky to be here, and as long as we're alive we should all appreciate what and whom we've got in our lives. And if you don't like it, you're always free to try and change your situation. Just like you have the ability to change the channel if you don't like people exhibiting free speech.

On Thanksgiving Day, we should take the time to think for a minute or two, about what we have and what we have for opportunities. We should be appreciative about what Veterans have done for our nation in the past and today. They're doing their thing so you don't have to.

So, I guess we should be thankful for what we have, and the opportunities we are given. Life is to be tasted. Sometimes we get food poisoning, and sometimes it tastes great. And sometimes it's Less Filling.

Bow down, minions, for once again, Len Is Right.

Be safe, healthy, and happy. And DO NOT forget the words of the Master.

I am,
Len Tollerton

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

An Explanation for Laxity

Hi folks:
This post is just to apologize for not posting in the last 3 weeks. I am on a bit of a hiatus because of the NFL season and keeping tabs on the Fantasy football league that I run (or am Commissioner of). I write a weekly newsletter for that league, and haven't been inspired with a subject when I've had time, and haven't had time when I've had a subject. Lame, but true.

But true to form, I will send an email when I have sporadically posted.

Rest assured, after the holidays and the Fantasy football season (ends around Christmas), I will be back in full-force, with a vengeance, spewing the truth, which is what you want to hear.

Until then, Happy Thanksgiving to all and your families.

Len Tollerton
LEN IS RIGHT

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

THE WEDDING AND HALLOWEEN

Greetings, Minions of Len:
My last post was a tribute to a friend who had passed. This post will be of a happier note. I hope everyone is having a fun week and everyone's feeling good. Here goes.

THE BURGESS WEDDING
Good friends Little Ed and Amanda got married over the weekend. They've been going out for around 3 years. College needed to be finished and a house purchased (aka their Honeymoon). But now they've taken that all-important step and become man and wife. Hopefully, they'll become one of the couples that stays together for many happy years.

The ceremony and reception were held at the Polish American yada-yada Club in Albany. As far as we could tell, everything went off without a hitch. After a very nice ceremony, the reception kicked in to full-swing. Appetizers were brought out and served buffet-style, and all of the food was very good. We all like it when they have scallops wrapped in bacon, don't we? Good mini-quiches, too. Having a reception or party at a club like this is nice because if you order a mixed drink that's not on the open bar, the drink is usually pretty inexpensive. A guy at our table was drinking Gimlets, which were only $2 or $3 a pop. Needless to say, he was in a fairly pickled state.

Dinner was Prime Rib or Chicken, which instead of being standard dry chicken, was moist and flavorful. The club did a great job. The potatoes were excellent. Then after dinner, friend MaryEllen started handing out 3 flavors of JELLO shots to anyone who wanted them. I think she had, like, 100 with her. She kept going to her car trunk, like a drug dealer, and coming back with her contraband.

By the way, friends Mary and Ed Sr. looked wonderful in their finery. Ed Sr., who 10 months ago, looked very ill while battling cancer, now looks like a million bucks, expecially in a tux. I wondered if he was going to break into a Fred Astaire routine. That's how dapper he looked. I, of course, like weddings because the ladies wear the heels, which makes Daddy very happy.

Surprisingly, and disappointingly, a poker game DID NOT break out. We talked about it, but nothing ever came of it, unless they started after I left. It's possible. I left early (10:00).

All in all, a great time. I think they were all a very tired bunch when the weekend ended.

HALLOWEEN
Connor dressed as a Werewolf, and Jackson, a Wizard for Halloween, and we made our way over to Jack's friend CJ's house (a few streets over) for Trick-or-Treating. We stayed out for 1 1/2 hours as we tromped around the neighborhood that I grew up in. Many of the same people who were there 30 years ago are still there. The guys got tired after a while from carrying so much candy. I remember when I was 11-14. Me and my friends would stay out for 3 hours accumulating a pillow case full of treats. For the past few years, as people have become obsessed with their children's safety, you stopped seeing shaving cream and eggs as part of der riguer for Halloween. I'm happy to say that shaving cream, at least, has started to make a comeback. Our experience with shaving cream this year was pretty tame. Sprayed on the road in front of the house I grew up in on Pinewood Place, in 3 foot letters, was the word BOOBS. The kids got a laugh and I chuckled.

The moral of this story can be summed up in 3 words. BOOBS ARE GOOD.
And of course you know, that LEN IS RIGHT!!

Peace to my people on Earth!!
I am,
Len Tollerton

Friday, October 20, 2006

LIFE CAN NOW CONTINUE

Hi folks:
It's been over a week since my last post. Last week started out great with varied fun activities and a win in my Fantasy football league against my #1 rival. Then the week ended on a low note as my beloved baseball team's bats went to sleep when most needed in Game 7 of the NLCS. So, life can now continue.

THE WEEK BEGAN REALLY WELL...
Last Thursday, the 12th, my week began very well. Game One of the NLCS was supposed to have begun Wednesday night the 11th, but heavy rains in the NYC area forced MLB to postpone the game till Friday. My good friend Fred was able to procure a few tickets to Game Two, which now became Game One because of the rainout. Well, I don't have to tell you that Shea Stadium was ELECTRIC and jumping. We were thrilled by Carlos Beltran's 2-run homer that eventually won the game, and were really happy that Tom Glavine pitched so well and we got to see a win. While drinking a couple of beers in the parking lot after the game, waiting for traffic to die down, we met a guy from Brooklyn who was walking through the parking lot. He asked us for a beer and tried to pay us $1 for it. It was worth at least $2, but we didn't take his money. Actually, Fred DID take it, but that's neither here nor there. Anyway, the guy was really impressed that we drove down from Albany for the game, and were driving right back. Called us "Die-Hards", and said "God Bless you guys." It was at that point that I started to dislike him. No, actually, he seemed pretty friendly. He went on his merry way and we got on the road.

THE NEXT DAY (THE 13TH)
Friday the 13th brought my son Connor's 13 birthday. How quickly time flies. We bought Connor a new bowling ball, a Nintendo Gameboy DS, and a Virgin Mobile cell phone, as gifts. For his "party", we took him, Jackson, and a few friends to an arcade and let them have fun with video games for an hour or so, then went to a local restaurant, (the Orchard), for pizza and the like. One of Con's friends is a Rainman-like nerd who has some strange little quirks. After we had finished our mozzarella sticks appetizer, and while we were waiting for the rest of our food, this kid decided he was really hungry and instead of using one of the plates on the table, started sprinkling Parmesan cheese on a napkin and licking it off. I was, like, "Dude, what the hell are you doing?" He says, "I'm really hungry." "Well, you could at least pour it on a plate. You look like a retard liking cheese off of a napkin. Do you do this kind of stuff when your parents are around?" He says, "Sometimes." "Well, stop. Mr. Tollerton doesn't like to be embarassed in public, okay? At least use a spoon, Rainman, alright?" Anyway, it was a nerd-fest to be sure. One of the nerds was on a sugar buzz and had to be scraped off of the wall. One of the kids was my sons' friend, The Holy Roman Emperor of Nerdland, and he was dorking it up like the world-class dork that he is. Then we stuffed them with cake and ice cream and sent them home.

METS AND CARDINALS
Just some other observations about the NLCS. First, can anyone tell me how Jeff Weaver and Jeff Suppan quieted the Mets bats? I mean, come on. Jeff Weaver? Jeff Freakin' Weaver? He was shit-canned from the Angels to make room for his little brother, after mediocre tenures with the Dodgers, Mets, Tigers, and Yankees. He couldn't give you two good starts in a row with the good steroids. Now, the guy becomes a baffler? And Jeff Suppan, who is better than Weaver, but eminently hittable, gives up 2 hits over 8 innings in Game 7? It was bad luck Aaron Heilman gave up the 2-run homer in the top of the 9th to lose Game 7, but the Mets should have had that game in hand much earlier. Especially...

...after one of the greatest defensive plays ever seen in Playoff history. Endy Chavez, the Mets left-fielder, robbed Scott Rolen of a 2-run homer by going over the wall to snag the ball in the end of his glove's webbing and then threw the ball back in to complete a double play and get the Mets out of the 6th inning. It would probably go down in Playoff history as one of, if not the greatest catch ever in the clutch......had the Mets won the game. In the bottom half of the inning, Chavez came up with men on base and 2 outs. So often, we have seen a guy make a great defensive play in the field, then come in and get a big hit to propel his team onward to a win. But Endy popped out to end the inning and I knew in my bones that they would probably lose because they didn't cash in on the momentum they got with Chavez's catch.

When Carlos Beltran struck out looking, and the Cardinals were the NL champs, I realized that I had no interest in this year's World Sries, and can only hope that Mets GM, Omar Minaya, can land a power hitting outfielder and sign, or bring up some young pitching talent for 2007. Too many old guys eventually break down over a long season. It was a real shame that Pedro Martinez and El Duque were not available for the playoffs. If they were able to pitch and were in good health, I believe the Mets walk into the Series and give the Tigers a real tough time. I think the Tigers will win in 5 games. I also think that maybe it's time for the Mets to say thank you and good bye to Pedro, Cliff Floyd, and El Duque. Older, injury-prone athletes don't end up winning championships, normally (though don't tell that to Willis Reed and Kirk Gibson).

ASSASSINS CRUSH HORSELESS HEADMEN
Just a quick note. The Assassins of Shadowland kicked the crap out of arch-rival, the Horseless Headmen, 106-53 in the BBSFFL (my fantasy football league). The Headmen are owned by by my good friend, Chuck, the Edge O.D. There was initially a $50 bet on this game which turned in to a wager of a round of golf and lunch. 3 words for Mr. Luce...Pay the man!! The Dark Tide Rolls, baby. Chant for me, Helsinki..."ASSASSINS!! ASSASSINS!! ASSASSINS!!"

THE BATHROOM PROJECT IN IT'S FINAL STAGES
I began painting the bathroom last night. We're going with white walls and purple trim. I've got to do 2 coats of Primer/Sealer before the actual paint goes on because it's new drywall and paint gets absorbed like a sponge. I'm thinking of using a little artistic flair later and painting some kind of design on the walls (stripes, or something like that just to give it some uniqueness). Mrs T. isn't so sure. We'll see. I'd like to do something to put my signature on it. Something that says..."The Asshole DIDN"T build this!!"

It'll just be nice to be able to pee upstairs from now on. Jeeez, this thing has taken a long time to complete. As long as the wife is happy, you know what I mean? Cause if Momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!

And you know that LEN IS RIGHT.

Thanks for stopping by.
I am,
Len Tollerton

Monday, October 09, 2006

HOW SWEET IT IS

Hey Now:
That's right. How sweet it is for us Mets fans who get to continue watching our team in the Playoffs, while the Yankees fans are left to wonder and speculate how and why their team's season fell apart at the worst possible time. Now I'm not saying that the Mets will win the Series, let alone get by the Cardinals. But it's fairly heady stuff for right now.

It was actually a pretty good weekend, sports-wise for me, as the Mets advanced, my KC Chiefs grabbed their second win of the year, and my Fantasy team won a nail-biter to put me at 3-2 in my league. Sometimes you get a week of football, or sports, hell. This is where your favorite team loses, your fantasy team loses, and you get your ass handed to you betting with a bookie. Then there are weeks when everything falls into place and you win. Fortunately for me, I don't bet football anymore because I experienced more weeks of hell than heaven. A man's got to know is limitations, ya know?

KIM JONG IL
I typed the North Korean madman's name in shit-stain brown because he is just scum. Is he trying to convince people he has large balls? Is he hopped up on steroids and testosterone? Is he just plum-loco crazy? Is he trying to just show defiance because he hates our way of life? Does anyone know the answer to this? Maybe he got tired of us and the rest of the world powers laughing at him, so he decided to show some force and create a palpable menace. Like Khadaffi from Libya and other crazies from around the planet, he seems to want to prove a point because he doesn't want his people to flourish freely. Dictators are typically like this, it seems. And it continues to amaze me that these guys keep trying to push things, even after they have it proven that they cannot win. Dictators are evil and corrupt. The only dictator who has survived and has not incurred the wrath of the world is Castro. But then again, he doesn't try to pose a threat to the free nations of the world.

Perhaps Kim Jong Il feels as if he's been pushed around by the free, capitalist nations to the point of not being able to take it anymore. Kind of like a person who commits a horrendous act of violence (like a school shooting, or a postal worker kooking out, etc...) when they've been pushed to the breaking point. Who knows? I'm sure most people believe his mind has gone round the bend. Maybe he's trying to get back at an abusive father, or something. Who knows?

Most people would suggest sending a team of CIA-type assassins to knock him off. It didn't work with Khadaffi or Osama Bin Laden, so far. And I can understand their point, even to the point of agreeing that this guy has to go. But then there's the argument that an act like that makes us sink to the despot's level. It also makes us look like the world bully, "Do and act as we say, or we'll just kill ya." Regardless of what your opinion is, we probably all agree that something should be done. Cause if he were to start showing serious force, like attacking, say, Japan, we wouldn't be able to get all those nice electronic items that we've just got to have.

AMTRAK CONTINUES TO SUCK
Things continue to suck at the railroad. It's bad enough that the workers have not had a contract or a raise since December of 1999 (that's almost 7 years.....you try getting along like that). But now the facility that I work at has a General Foreman/Asst. Facility Manager who is out of control in his lust for power. It doesn't help that he, as a short person, has a whopping Napoleon Complex . But he has now started to go out of his way to prove he holds all of the cards by looking for reasons to fire anyone who steps out of line. It's gotten to the point that if someone takes a lost-time injury, this guy is trying to find a way to turn the injury around and showing it's the injured person's fault, to the point of having them taken out of service.

I have started to liken this guy to Kim Jong Il, as his power lust has gotten out of control. A man got in trouble for punching people's time cards in, so they would not be late. While I agree that it's not the best idea to do that, the General Foreman has actually tried to get the people whose cards were punched, to make a statement saying that they gave the guy permission to punch their cards. He is doing this to try to trick these people into making a mistake for which they could be fired. How do you like that. This GF used to be a Foreman, and wasn't really a bad guy. Now, he has turned into an evil bastard, bent on putting people on the street, jeopardizing their families' well-being, all to prove that he is the man in power.

Around a year ago, this guy came into some money and bought himself a small, convertible, Italian sports car. It reminds me of a Barbie car. I live in hopes that one day when he gets out of his car, that a giant Milwaukee's Best beer can drops out of the sky and crushes him, like in the commercial. If you haven't seen this series of commercials for Milwaukee's Best (the can drops out of the sky and crushes some hapless guy who is showing a softer side of himself, and the narrator says, "Be a Man. Drink a Man's Beer), you can see them on ESPN during the broadcasts of the World Series of Poker. They're pretty funny. And, I don't think it's alot to ask to see this happen in real life to this GM, who seems to take delight in screwing with people's lives, while driving around in his Barbie sports-car. I think certain people feel that just because they don't work at the Post Office, that an act of violence couldn't happen to them. And in truth, no truly rational person would do that. But sometimes you can push people too far. And then when the act of violence happens, the victim gets a look on their face like, "Why did this happen? What'd I do?, What's I do?"

CONNOR TURNS 13
My older son, Connor, will turn 13 this Friday. It's really amazing how fast time flies. I have pictures in my locker at work, of him at the Great Escape Amusement Park when he was 2 or 3. I see the picture now of his cute, chubby cheeks and happy smile and I just want to kiss and hug him over and over. I know this would embarrass him. It's funny and ironic how when your kids are very small, you want them to grow up. And when they grow up you wish they were small again so you could hold them and have them fall asleep on your chest on a cool Spring day. That was one of my favorite things. Falling asleep on the couch with one of my small boys on my chest or next to me. If you're someone with small children, cherish those feelings and moments now. And keep those feelings embedded in your memory. Cause soon enough you'll find that your kids don't want to hang around with Mom and Dad, and you'll miss it terribly. Make sure you tell your kids you love them and give them hugs on a daily basis. Cause one day you'll feel an emptiness because they're not around anymore. Cherish your time with your kids and make sure it counts.

LEN IS RIGHT, people, you know it's true. You have yourself a nice week.

I am,
Len Tollerton

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

OCTOBER

Greetings:
October has arrived, the NFL is in full-swing and the baseball playoffs have begun. I hope everyone had a great weekend. I started off my weekend by playing in the traditional birthday golf outing on Friday. Rob the Hockey Player and Rob the Bounty Hunter joined me at Schenectady Muni on a very rainy morning. We were supposed to have 8 golfers and ended up with 3 because of prior committments and the poor weather conditions. Hockey Player's birthday was 9/30 and mine was 10/1, and for the last 10 years we have played a round of golf on the Friday nearest our birthdays. last year we had 8 players and played a 2-team scramble that everyone enjoyed. We tried to get the same teams together this year, at the same scene of the crime. Instead, we had a 3-man match. I gave strokes to both Robs so the match would be fair. We played a game called Nines, which is a game for 3 players, where you get 1 point for a bogey, 2 for a Par , and 3 for a Birdie, with each point being worth a Quarter. We also played Greenies (closest to the pin on Par-3's and you must make the Par). I won 3 and Hockey Player won 1. The Bounty Hunter ended up getting fleeced for the day. We were VERY wet for the first 7 holes, then the rain let up and we were able to have fun. So, it was a good day.

Saturday, lovely Patty took me to DelMonico's for dinner. Except for an exceptional appetizer called Bella Napoli (Italian Nachos), the rest of the meal sucked. The steak was really fatty and not really outstanding and Patty's chicken, pasta, broccoli, and mushroom dish was horrendous. The marinara was too sweet. From now on, if I want a steak, I'm going to the Barnsider. And if I want Italian, I'm going to D'Raymond's.

Sunday, the family was over to celebrate my birthday with a dinner of ribs and potato latkes. Very enjoyable.

MLB PLAYOFFS
Here are my predictions for the First Round of the baseball playoffs:
American League
Yankees vs. Tigers--Yanks just too much. Yanks win in 4.
A's vs. Twins--Despite losing Game 1, I think the Twins will prevail in 5.

National League
Mets vs. Dodgers--Mets starting rotation is hurting, but I think their offense will be enough to win in 4 games.
Padres vs. Cardinals--Despite losing Game 1 at home, I think the Pods will take it in 5.

FOOTBALL
It was a fairly good week for me football-wise. My Chiefs won 41-0 and my Fantasy team the Assassins soundly defeated the defending champs, the Kaos Kids, 87-53...and won $10 in the process. The only down-side to the week was that I picked Jacksonville in both of my Survivor pools and lost and am now out of both.

RANDOMS
Everyone seems excited, or at least happy, that gas prices are now at the $2.60 level. It IS better than $3.09, but doesn't it suck to think that we're happy to be paying $2.60? We've played right into the gas companies wishes by being happy and accepting this. Make no mistake, none of them care about the American Public. If they did, they would have been happy making 18-25 Billion instead of the record breaking 36 Billion of last year and not socked it to our wallets so bad. Bunch of scum.

I'm looking forward to seeing the movies The Illusionist and The Prestige, both about magicians. Also, I'm looking forward to The Departed, with DiCaprio, Nichloson, and Damon. I also read today that Robert Downey Jr. has been signed to play Iron Man, the comic-book superhero. I've always been a fan of Downey, even when he was in trouble. I think he's one of America's best actors and I try to see most of his flicks.

Do other countries have crazies running around like we had in Amish country this weekend? Oklahoma City, Waco, Columbine, etc... do we have the corner on lunatics?

Amtrak, and working at Amtrak, sucks massive donkey d**k. Will somebody PLEEZE offer me a job making $50,000, utilizing my talents, even though I don't have a college diploma? Help a brother out, will ya? You trust me, don't you? You're getting alot and a large asset when you get me.

How do I know? Because LEN IS RIGHT!!
I am,
Len Tollerton

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

THE METS, T.O., AND OTHER STUFF

Hello:
Working the day shift has limited my time to type posts on this blog. I will continue to post when I can, but it will not be on a daily basis, obviously. My apologies to the minions. But don't go away or give up hope. I'll still be here. In truth, it is I who should be annoyed. Except for She Is From Hell and the Edge O.D., no one responds. Are you guys out there?

ENOUGH WHINING.....WHAT'S UP WITH THE METS?
Things are not looking that great for the NY Mets right now. They seem to have lost the magic and run out of gas. Did they shoot their load too early and punch themselves out before the playoffs even begin? Jeez, they played so well all year, and to think that because of a couple of injuries late in the season that they're going to fade from existence. They way they're hitting right now, they'll be lucky to get out of the First Round, let alone make the Series. And forget it if they have to play the Yankees. Except for their 3 late relievers, (Guillermo Mota, Aaron Heilmann, and Billy Wagner) the pitching staff is sucking right now. I won't stand for this shit!! I've been a Met fan too darn long and watched the HATED Braves run over the Division for so long, that I won't tolerate a collapse like this. WAKE UP METS!! You better flip the "ON" switch and get back to pounding your opponents, or people won't even remember what a great regular season you had.

TERRELL OWENS....OH...MY...GODDDDDDD
I thought I was tired of the circus surrounding this guy before. Now I'm REALLY exhausted. And I've got this guy on my Fantasy team. And although the guy is a jerk and a pain-in-the-ass, I don't blame him as much as i blame the media. You know, it's like one of the reporters decided to start a little, untrue rumor just to get a shitstorm started. For every responsible reporter who works hard to get a story correct, it seems that there are 20 who are looking to cause trouble, or break a story so they can get famous. I'd really like them ALL, Owens, the reporters, and the rest of the media to just go away for about a month. It gets to be like the wall of white noise you have to deal with when you go to Chuck E. Cheese's. It's just an endless drone that makes your brain cringe, first, then shut down.

THE RYDER CUP
What an absolute embarassment. Phil Mickelson should decline to play in this event from now on. 1-9-1 in his last 11 matches in the Ryder Cup. He may be # 2 in the world, but he sucks when it comes to this format. On the other side of the coin, it is always fun and refreshing watching and hearing the European fans during this event. They sing, cheer, and have fun with their team. They actually have a National-type of pride for this thing. Do Americans even care? Well, I do. I love the competition, the varied format of matches and the camaraderie of some of the players. I only wish it mattered as much to the American players as it does the Europeans. I think it only matters to these guys when they realize they're about to get trounced. "Oh shit, we're down 12-6. Maybe we can grab a miracle and make an 8 1/2 to 2 1/2 comeback. Oh well, I guess we lose again. I wonder how my Mutual Funds did today." C'mon guys, the fans care, why can't you?

OTHER STUFF
Very enjoyable day last Saturday as Roy the G.B. King and I played golf in Rob the Bounty Hunter's batchelor party/golf outing/poker tournament. Roy and his partner Rich won the golf tourney, which was a two-man best ball event. Their score was +3. I teamed with good friend Tim G. We couldn't do anything right. When one of us made a great shot, we could never follow it up with another one. We finished at +15!! I'm alot better player than Tim, so I can't blame him. I played like shit, maybe the worst I've played in 3 years. We still had fun though.

The poker tourney, however, worked out fine for me. I finished 2nd. There was only 15 players, so the payout was only $180 for 2nd place. But I played very well, very solid, and I'm liking my game right now. If I had enough Buy-In money, I'd play in more tourneys. My confidence level for playing No-Limit Hold-'Em is pretty high right now. I really think I can hold my own with just about anyone. So, it was a good day.

BIRTHDAY GOLF OUTING--This Friday is the annual Birthday Golf Outing. Every year for the last 10 years Robbie, the Ancient Hockey Player and I have played golf for our birthday (his is 9/30 and mine is 10/1). For the 2nd straight year, we will be playing with 2 teams of four, in a scramble format. The evil team led by Jeff the Palooka won by a shot last year. My team wants revenge this year, so we'll be meeting Friday morning at Schenectady Municipal to settle the score. By the way, all gifts can be sent to me at my home. I appreciate all efforts.

BATHROOM PROJECT--This thing has slowed way down. We're 1 1/2 to 2 weeks from finishing and the contractor has run into a bunch of unrelated problems that have delayed progress. Goodness, Lord, can a brother get a break.

That's it for now. Hope to speak with you all soon.
Len is Tardy, Len Is Lazy, but Len is Right.
Book it.
I am
Len Tollerton

Wednesday, September 20, 2006

THE PERFECT TACO by LIR

Hello good friends:
Today, I devote the entire post to the building of the Perfect Taco. I do this because, though I do believe that everyone should cater their tacos to their own personal taste, there are some things that should be kept in mind for success.

SOFT SHELL OR HARD ("he said HARD".."Yeah, heh-heh.....")
Though this could be the title of an arguement over which kind of crab is best to eat. It's not. It's about taco shells. I have gone back and forth over the years. I like both and have eaten one or the other, exclusively, at different times. Right now, I'm into Hard shell tacos. Right now I'm groovin' on the crunch. It is, artistically, easier to build on a Soft shell, however, because you can just add things in a pile. So let's get to it.

BUILDING ON SOFT
First, you need to lay the shell flat. The initial ingredient should be the meat. Be it ground beef, chicken or steak (not to mention shrimp), you need to start with a good base. The meat gives you that base from which to blend your tastes and textures.

Next, I like to go with the salsa. Now, people will disagree and say they like to go with other things here, and that the salsa is a topping. I say that the salsa acts as a mortar, a glue, if you will, for holding important ingredients together. Nothing beats homemade salsa for freshness. But if I'm using store brand, I usually go with Pace Medium Chunky Salsa. I like it cause it's pretty fresh tasting (for jarred sauce), and the heat level is enjoyable and manageable. But of course, everyone has their own favorite.

We then move to the cheese section. We usually use some form of shredded cheese. Hot cheese sauce works okay too. It's not the KIND of cheese you use. Use Gorgonzola goat cheese for all I care. But the cheese directly ties in the flavor from the meat a couple of levels below and the veggies. Don't be afraid to use the cheese liberally. Cheese is good.

After cheese, it's Veggie time. This is not to be confused with Lima-Time, which is a terrible memory for 2006 Mets fans. But I digress. Again, the kind of veggies is unimportant. But you should use them for color and for health. A taco makes use of mutilple food groups. So if you use tomatoes, peppers, or mangos, get some produce in there. No, the salsa alone doesn't count. I like green or colored peppers, and I enjoy garden-fresh tomatoes in the summer, but never the crap you get in winter. Once in a while shredded lettuce is great, but I generally don't take the time to shred lettuce. It is nice, theough, because it's cold and gives a change of texture to the taco.

Finally, it's time for whatever topping you use. We like guacamole or sour cream. I am also a big fan of Habanero sauce. Something flavorful like Melindas XXX, or Tejas Tears, or even El Yucateca, which you can get for free by stealing a bottle off of the tables at Garcia's.

Important Note:
The taco, after completion should be folded, NOT rolled like a burrito. It is, after all, a taco.

DIRECTIONS FOR HARD TACOS
There is not much difference in the building process, other than you have to use less material. You don't want to crack the shell, so you have to be careful when spooning the ingredients into the shell. I like to let the meat sit in the shell for a few seconds before I hit it with the salsa because it lets the juices soak into the shell and soften it up so that when you bite into it, there's less chance of getting a violent shell crack and the whole thing falling apart.

BECOMING A MASTER TACO BUILDER
The MAIN skill for becoming a Master taco builder is what I call Low-Mess-Amount, or L.M.A. The less cracking or tearing of the shell, the less mess. The less mess, the easier it is to make your NEXT taco buildable WITHOUT getting it all wet from the plate WHILE you're building it. The Lower your L.M.A., the easier it will be for you to make Master rank Taco Builder.

There's nothing wrong with trying to be artistic while making food. The taco gives you the opportunity to experiment with creativity and build layers of tastes and textures. You'd be surprised on how many excellent taste combinations you can make with many different ingredients (you wouldn't believe how good cantaloupe and orange bell pepper tastes together). Of course, the Traditional taco (beef, salsa, cheese and some kind of Veg) always has a welcome place at any table.

The Lesson, for now, ends here. I know you'll try to give my way a try, because you know that
LEN IS RIGHT.

Be at peace my food-loving minions.
I am,
Len Tollerton

Friday, September 15, 2006

HECTIC WEEK

Good day to all:
Haven't had a chance to write this week. Little hectic. 2 wakes, one school Open House, and the project continues. How bout you? How did your week go? You now have the weekend to decompress. Have at it.

The Bathroom project continues to progress. We've lost a bunch of days to weather, illness, and emergency. Was hoping the project would be completed by 9/5. Now it looks like 9/25. You never know how things are going to go when laying piping. It's not so much the supply water (to the sink, shower and toilet), but the discharge, or soil pipe. If it's not layed correctly, with the correct downward angle, you end up with a drainage and backup problem. So, when you're cutting into existing rafters and joists, you might not be able to lay the pipe exactly where you wanted. This causes delays because now you have to take time to figure angles, etc... and plan it so it all works correctly. Do it right the first time.

GOODBYE MISS ANNA
This week, our family lost a good friend. Anna Gareau was the Pre-School teacher at Blessed Sacrament School where my wife used to teach and my kids used to go. We should all be so lucky as to have a loving, caring, talented teacher as Anna. She helped both of my sons get through a couple of difficult times while in her class. She treated every kid as if they were special, always taking time to listen to what they said. Every kid who went through her program over 17 years was much better off for it, and they were all lucky to have been a part of her life. I've often said that one of the Secrets of Life is to make a Positive Impact on those around you. Anna lived this every day. She always greeted you with a smile, took time to talk with you, was always friendly and caring. Her colleagues at the school will miss her dearly, as well as all the parents and students who knew her. She had beaten cancer twice before, but 3rd time's the charm, as they say, and she started going downhill this summer after a 3rd occurance. Anna passed away on Monday night. The church was full for her funeral, attesting to the fact that she was important to alot of people. Rest in Loving Peace, Anna Gareau. May your Spirit be quickly led to its final destination, in whatever Paradise you envisioned. We love you and will miss you.

UNHAPPY JACKSON
Jackson's school year began on a down note, when he walked in to school on the first day of 4th Grade. Facing him was Miss Cummings, a near-retirement teacher, who is known as the meanest teacher in the school. She IS a bit of a Battle-Axe. She yelled alot on the first day and Jackson came home in tears. This caused Mommy to make an immediate conference appointment to see what was up.

She's not as bad as originally believed, but she ain't all that great either. It's clearly time for her to retire, so as to infuse some newer, more modern thinking into that class. Mommy wasn't convinced, but for now, Jackson will remain where he is and have to suck it up. Plus, his best friend, CJ, is in his class, so we don't want to break up two Goobers just cause the teacher is crappy. You just have to be here to see Jackson put on his "Rumplestiltskin" face when he gets mad. You'd think he was going to stomp himself into the ground.

FOOTBALL BEGINS
NFL first week. Chiefs lose. Assassins (my fantasy football team) lose. But football is back, baby. And although it signals the end of summer, we got football!!

KIDS' BOWLING BEGINS
Bowling started for the kids this week. Connor is in his first year of bowling with the older kids (up to 17). He averages around 100 or 105, and got off to a rough start with a 60 (not warmed up). But then he threw a 125 and a 126, so he felt better. However, you can't believe how good some of the kids in the league are. On one set of lanes, one team got a 247 and a 278 out of two of their guys. And on Connor's lanes, the opposing captain shot a 253. Connor's captain has a 201 average. Con's just going to try and improve this year, knowing he can't chase these guys yet.

Jackson is very erratic, averaging 83 in his second full year. He thinks he's the King of Bowling if he does well and cries and whines and wants to quit if he does poorly. I try to help him out, but at the age of 9 1/2 he is an expert in ALL fields and knows it all. Good luck to him this year.

Alright, that's it for today. Next time I will try to give advice on how to build the perfect taco. And you know it will be perfect (to me), because LEN IS RIGHT.

I am,
Len Tollerton

Friday, September 08, 2006

BACK TO SCHOOL

Hello people:
It has been fully one week since my last post. I have to apologize, as I have been occupied with the return of the school season. I trust everyone got back alright.

The lovely Patty began the week with days of meetings before the kids finally entered her classroom on Wednesday. And although she is sure that at least 2 of her students are potential criminals, they've actually surprised her with good behavior, so far. It's only a matter of time till their true nature rears its ugly head.

Connor (the older of my two clones) began 7th grade Thursday. I think he'll do fine this year, though things will be different for him as he will now be changing classes every period. After counting, he found that he has around 12 or 13 teachers this year. Some of the kids get a little worried about changing classes because that comfortable core that they usually get used to is no longer there. However, it's very necessary because it gets them ready for how things will be in High School. He's pretty smart and usually adapts well, so I have no worries.

The other guy? That's another story. Jackson has been worried since he found out he has Miss Cummings for 4th grade. She is old, nearing retirement, and is rumored to be mean. So, of course, he comes home in tears because the first day the teacher did nothing but raise her voice to the class and yelled at the kids individually if they made a mistake. She started the year off by saying, "I'm sure you've heard that I'm the meanest teacher in this school.....Well, it's true." Things went downhill from there. Jackson is a smart kid who pulls straight A's. A teacher like this could change his views about school. Mommy, reluctant to label herself as a "nightmare parent," has already sent off a letter to the principal, whom she knows, complaining about the teacher's first day's tactics. She's prepared to pull him out of her class if it continues.

THE FANTASY DRAFT
The 15th season of the Big Boy Sports Fantasy Football League, which I started back in 1992, held their player draft on Wednesday evening. Yours truly's team, the Assassins, had the 2nd pick in the First Round, and chose San Diego's LaDanian Tomlinson. The First Round went as expected except for 2 picks. I was surprised to see the Foxxers take Peyton Manning with the 4th pick, thinking that was kind of early to be taking a QB. The strangest pick was definitely the Titans choosing Marvin Harrison, receiver extraordinaire of the Colts, with the 6th Pick. It's generally considered a bad move to draft a Receiver in the First Round. But the Titans' owner was trying to duplicate his draft, round-for-round, from his other league. He does not like rooting for players from one league when he has to root against the same players in the other league.

The oddest move of the night came when the Rollers owner picked Marshall Faulk of the Rams. Faulk is out for the season because of an injury and surgery and is now doing TV work. Rollers owner said he heard that Faulk would eventually play this year. But we already know he's been shut down for the season. Though that pick shows a lack of preparation, the Rollers, nevertheless, have drafted a great Receiving team, and injuries aside, could do very well if his team comes healthy. Rollers owner is the only one of the original team owners to NEVER win the championship. We'll see what happens.

SCUMBAG MOVE OF THE NIGHT
At one point in the draft I made a mistake in calling out whose turn it was. I told Rollers it was their pick. They chose Deuce McAllister, RB from New Orleans. I went one more pick before I realized I had made a mistake and that Rollers pick slot should have gone to defending champion Kaos Kids. Rollers had to give McAllister back until Kaos made their pick. Brian of Kaos IS Kevin of the Rollers' brother. Kaos clearly did not know who to pick, and needing a RB, and not realizing that McAllister was available, did the All-Time Scumbag move of any draft and decided to take (or STEAL) the pick away from his brother by selecting McAllister. It was, AT ONCE, the most Unsportsmanlike act ever to happen in League history. I, as Commissioner, cannot do anything, because it was my original mistake, and the rules were not broken. But C'mon. You guys on Kaos really branded yourselves Thieves and the rest of the League knows what they're dealing with from now on. I mean, if McAllister was the guy you were about to take, then I can see it, no problem. But you guys had NO IDEA that he was even there. AND, you did it to your own brother (cousin)!!
WOW.

THE HEELS ARE THE THING
Ladies, I want to speak to you about something and clear some things up. Actually, just one thing. If you're a woman who is in a relationship, be it a marriage, dating, significant others, whatever...you should know something about guys. Yes, we like it when you dress up in lingerie for intimate times. But that's not really that important. I mean, it's nice but, it's not necessary. And I know that it's kind of alot of work to do when it's going to be taken off very quickly after the festivities begin.

But ladies, the truth is that guys like heels. We like it when you wear the shoes. High heels, Candies, platform sandals, high-heel clogs, you name it. If it's got a heel or wedge of 2"-5", your guy will be happy. It's worth it for a number of reasons. One, it makes your legs look great regardless of what your legs look like. It gives a little definition to your calves and accentuates the curve of your legs. Purely esoteric, but important. Two, it makes everyone feel sexier. Nothing puts people in the mood for good love-making like a good pair of high-heels. It makes the guy hot, and it makes the lady wearing them feel horny because she knows she looks sexier. When you look sexy, you feel sexy. Three, they don't have to get torn off to get down to business. The lingerie, generally, has to come off. But the shoesies can stay on the entire time, unless it's uncomfortable for the woman.

Now, I am NOT someone who has a foot fetish. I'm not into sucking on toes or anything like that. But I can honestly say that I would rather see the woman with a tee-shirt or nothing AND the shoes, than the full lingerie get-up with NO shoes. In fact, I'm not even a fan of stockings. They get in the way and build an unnecessary barrier between my tongue and her leg. Can you dig what I'm saying? Are you feeling me, dog?

This is just something for you all to consider as you make your way through your daily life. Flats don't cut it. Ladies, I know they're ALOT more comfortable. And, truly, I believe you should spend the better part of your life feeling comfortable. But really, the heels are the thing when push comes to shove. Heels get noticed, regardless of what else is there.

And you all know, though I don't have to say it, that when it comes to a topic like this, that.........................
LEN IS MOST DEFINITELY RIGHT!!

I am, as usual,
Len Tollerton
I appreciate any comments you may have.

Thursday, August 31, 2006

THE BATHROOM PROJECT AND GOLF

Hello there:
I just seem to be in the midst of writer's block, or have nothing interesting to say this week. Nothing with teeth, anyway. I need something controversial to come along that I can expound on and pique your interest to the point of response. Yeah, like that'll happen...only the Edge of Darkness and She Is From Hell ever respond. What? Is everyone on Permanent Vacation? Ya bunch of lazy Bastages!!

THE PROJECT PROGRESSES
The shingles went on the roof today, the sink was purchased, some of the drain holes are cut and the wiring for the lights and outlets was run. On the subject of the sink, we decided to go with a large pedestal sink, rather than a vanity and sink-top combo. The pedestal sink is pretty wide and gives alot of room on both sides. It will end up giving us more room for a nice closet in the one corner of the room. It's going to turn out nice, but we wish it was over. We have blankets strung up across the bathroom doorways, because the doors aren't in yet, thus, we have lots of light coming into the bedroom, very early in the morning. It'll be done in about 2 weeks.

GOLF WITH YOUR BUDDIES
I played golf today with friends Roy (G.B.K.), Chuck (Edge O.D.), and Chris (Dot-Com Destroyer). The day went pretty much as expected as Dot-Com shot his standard 77 (after a month off), I shot in the mid-80's, and the brothers stayed w/in a couple shots of each other. We played a point game where you get 3 points for a Birdie, 2 points for a Par, and 1 for a Bogey. Edge and Dot-Com defeated Roy and me front-back-and-total and Dot-Com won all 4 Greenies (closest to the pin on the Par 3's and you must make the par). Roy and I paid out $8 each. What a gorgeous day, though. Mid-70's, sunny and breezy...it was great. As usual, the four of us had fun.

THE VACATION IS ABOUT DONE
I must return to work on Sunday Sept. 3 at 8 a.m. My vacation time for the year has drawn to a close. I was able to make it to sunny Florida in April, but no New England Beaches this summer. A bit of a bummer, because I usually need to get at least 3 days of beach time per year to decompress fully for the next year. Unfortunately, after paying for the Project, we won't be able to go to Florida in the Spring, so we'll have to look forward to going back to the Cape next summer. Or maybe we'll try the Jersey shore or Maryland. By next summer, I should be just bitter, burned-out and hateful at Amtrak. What a freakin' pit. If I had any other skills besides being easy to talk to and being a pertinent and insightful writer (albeit with no diploma), I'd quit the railroad. If I didn't have a family relying on me, I'd chuck it all and spend some time finding someone to take a chance on me and get out from under the Thumb, so unhappy with my career choice am I. I've always wanted to own my own business or have a few successful websites that I could run from home. Something that would allow me to enjoy more free time to do the things that make me happiest. But there's never been enough money to sustain a business or keep websites up and running. WHINE-WHINE-WHINE!! What-the Freak-Ever, dude. Welcome to the world of misery. Shut Up and get off your ass and just Do-It if you're so miserable. Just stop the goddamn whining.

Five minute wallow now over, I move on. I just hope I can complete another year at the pit that is Amtrak without committing a violent act or saying something that gets me taken out of service. I don't think the violence thing will happen. I'll go home before I go that far. But I believe it sure would feel good to attack a member of management with a 4-iron.......just once. I can honestly say that I'm sure I'll never know.

So....how was your week? I'm not going to ask for a response cause none of you ever reply. I'm just glad you all read this. But then, why wouldn you? You Are Right because you read Len Is Right. This may be one of my main purposes in life. Inspiring my minions to be Right.

I feel much better. Thank you, and I'll see you next time on LEN IS RIGHT.
I am,
Len Tollerton

Sunday, August 27, 2006

SORRY FOR THE LAPSE

Hello friends:
Took some time off from writing as the bathroom project progressed. Just back on this Sunday evening to speak on a couple of things.

BERNADINI
Saturday's Travers Stakes from Saratoga went as expected, as Bernadini ran away with the Midsummer Derby. The Graveyard of Champions did not claim another victim as not only did the Prohibitive Favorite win, but the second favorite, Bluegrass Cat, came in second. This made the Travers one of the worst payout races ever. When the Exacta pays $5.00 you know it was a walk. It really wasn't even worth betting. I think if you ended up betting $1000 to win on Bernadini, you ended up winning $350. Does that make sense? Great looking horse, though.

T.O.
I think when Dallas signed Terrell Owens, the football fans of America hoped beyond hope that we could just have a relatively quiet Pre-Season. Nope. And now, though we aren't surprised, we have to endure the endless droning of the sports media as we allow T.O. to make his spectacle, and a great football coach is led to distraction and embarassment as he has to spin everything to calm said media. I blame the media for many of the world's problems. The over-hype of everything bombs us every day to take people's minds off of the real problems, and thus, numbs us to alot.

By the way, does anyone but me remember T.O., in his rookie year, in a playoff game against the Packers, catching the winning touchdown with no time left on the clock, holding onto the ball after getting blasted by the Green Bay defender, then melting into a puddle of tears? Well, I remember. And I thought he was a humble person who was a good teammate. This was one of those rare times that LEN WAS WRONG!! Obviously he was crying because he realized what kind of a payday one catch would bring him. HE'S DIRT!!

Anyway.......watch Owens have a near-record year with Drew Bledsoe and lead Dallas to the NFC Title Game. This would, of course, feed Owens' ego and demands an All-You-Can-Eat Buffet that would sicken a professional eater. Or, we could get lucky and he could go down with an ACL in the first game, and he'd have to go back to quietly earning his living as a Receiver. So tired...please go away and leave me to my football season.

ETCETERA.....................
For those who made it to the house on Friday, thanks so much for the great time. There were a couple of SNAFUS, but I, for one, had a great time and I'm glad you were there. We all don't see each other that often and I'm glad we could get together for some fun and drinks.

To my friend from Carolina, thanks for making it. It meant alot. $10, indeed!!

We ate at Red Robin today. Food is pretty good for what you get. Good burgers with some originality, and big bottomless french fries. The place is your typical chain theme restaurants of which I'm not that fond. I always enjoy my meal, but the crowds and principle of the things turns me off. Anyway.we enjoyed our time.

Hopefully back soon with something more substantive.
I am,
Len Tollerton, and I AM RIGHT.
Especially with the tent.

Monday, August 21, 2006

TIGER AND DEADWOOD

Hey folk, what's up?
It's been a few days, my bad. I'm back with the weekend report and some observations. I hope everyone had a great weekend. The rain caused a little trouble with the big bathroom project, as the roof was not yet on. More on that later.

TIGER AND THE PGA CHAMPIONSHIP
Plain and simple, once Tiger Woods got a piece of the lead on Saturday, this tournament was over. They guy is now 12 for 12 in Major tourneys when he has the lead going into Sunday. He's physically more able and mentally intimidating. No one has more focus, and when it comes down to one-on-one, his very presence puts his opponents at a disadvantage. It got boring watching it, and I turned it off because there wasn't anyone posing a threat. One of these days he'll give up a lead on the last day. Did you know that he's never come from behind on the last day to win a Major? One day that will happen, too. Wasn't it a year ago? And wasn't it just a few months ago that all the media "experts" were saying that he's not the same guy, he's just not as good, his marriage will take away his competitive fire? You're all quiet about that now, aren't you? Got nothing to say on that subject, huh?

WHO'S THE MAN? I THINK WE ALL KNOW THE ANSWER.

DEADWOOD AND ENTOURAGE
Is anyone out there keeping up with HBO's Deadwood or Entourage? Well, I am, and let me tell you, this week's episode of Deadwood was one of, if not the best ever. Intrigue aplenty, sadness, comedy, crack dialogue, it had it all. It's a shame that there is only one episode left to the Series. I've really enjoyed this season and all that happened. Plus, we got to see Trixie's breasts as she shot Hearst in the shoulder. The actress who plays Trixie, Paula Malcolmsen, is a natural beauty and she plays her character really well.

Entourage has been very interesting and humorous this season, as well. This week, Vince Chase lost the chance to play Joey Ramone in a filmography of the Ramones when his agent, Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven), screwed over the old guy who owned the rights to the script, and the guy got pissed and sold the project to a studio that will not work with Vince Chase. A bunch of other stuff went on, also, and the episode was very good. I only started watching Entourage this year, and have really enjoyed it. If you haven't had a chance to catch this show yet, you definitely should try. If you don't have HBO, you can rent the first couple of seasons on video. I think it's worth it.

THE RAIN IN SPAIN DOESN'T ALWAYS STAY ON THE PLAIN
At least that's true in Colonie. We weren't supposed to get any rain overnight on Friday, but we did. And with only a light tarp on the framed bathroom to protect from dew, but not from rain, we ended up waking up on Saturday with a wet downstairs bathroom floor, when the rain leaked throught the upstairs project. No problem, we handled that. So the contractor and I spent 3 hours wrapping up the project with heavy plastic and wood on Saturday morning, because Saturday night and Sunday morning it was supposed to rain heavy. All was okay when we left the house for Mrs. Sansone's 40th B.D. party at 6:30. But the rain that fell while we were gone, and leaked a bit throught the tarp and then leaked through the floor into the downstairs bathroom. No problem. It was minor and I put a bucket under the leak. Unfortunately, around 4:00 a.m. the rain came down in a torrent of lightning and thunder, teeming like it was Florida. I woke up to the sound of alot of dripping and when I went into the project area to check it out, found that the wood planks we had place on top as a makeshift roof was bowing like a beer-belly from the weight of the rain that had accumulated on top of the heavy plastic, and that there was noe a small piss-hole leaking a steady stream of water.

I got the bright idea to try and push the wood planks up to dump the water over the side of the framing. Picture a person stepping under a bucket which was placed on top of an ajar door and having water dumped all over him. That's what happened to me. This, of course, set lovely Patty to giggling as she tried to help me. I then decided to try bracing the wood up with a long 2X4 board. And got dumped on again, only to have lovely Patty fall on the floor laughing at my predicament. Good thing we're already married.

Anyway, I dealt with that emergency, got back to sleep for a few hours and then, with help from the contractor, got everything secured better and the big pocket of water taken care of later. Work has resumed this a.m. and we should be okay for the rest of the week. Oh, the joys of homeownership and building projects. Does anything ever go smoothly? Or is it just my bad luck? I never hear of anyone else having these problems.

EPILOGUE
Gas prices are much too high, we're being gouged and screwed by the oil companies. Bush sucks out loud. Too many immigrants, legal and otherwise. Too much money to foreigners and to help foreign countries and not enough for Americans who pay taxes. Low-interest loans for Arabs who buy gas stations, but an American citizen can't get a business loan for under 12%, and may not even get approved (not talking about myself, by the way). Inept, uncaring management, locally, at Amtrak Rensselaer, and no contract for labor in 6 1/2 years. Will it end before someone snaps and commits a violent act domestically? I hope so, but don't see avoiding it.

Oh well, it's summer. The weather's been great, Saratoga is in full swing, the Mets are still in First place, and NFL training camps have begun. Soon the fantasy draft will take place and baseball playoffs will start. It's not all bad. Time to learn that LEN IS RIGHT.

Peace to my people on Earth.
I am,
Len Tollerton

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

LET'S TALK SOME FOOTBALL

Minions!

Okay, admittedly, this post is not for all of you. But for fans of the NFL and Fantasy Football, I'd like to give my take on what I'm seeing right now in the world of football. Here goes:

  1. The Arizona Cardinals will contend and very possibly grab a Wild Card spot this year. I think they're going to have an explosive Offense, akin to the Colts. Now that Playboy holdout Leinart is in camp, they may have a viable backup for Kurt Warner.
  2. LaDanian Tomlinson may be a great pick in Fantasy leagues this year, despite the Chargers going with an untested QB. Phillip Rivers looked good in his 1st Pre-Season game. I know it wasn't for real, but I think alot of people got the feeling that Tomlinson will benefit from the new, young starter.
  3. Clinton Portis injured shoulder may not be separated and in as bad shape as was first reported, but how will it affect him in the first half of the season. Will he be able to heal enough over the rest of training camp to be able to take the punishing hits from defenders and man-up enough to do his blocking asignments? This is a major question for the Redskins. If Portis is not 100%, or has to play semi-injured all season, doesn't their stock fall significantly? They certainly can't rely on old Mark Brunnell to lead them to the playoffs with his arm. My prediction is that if Portis has to play hurt, the Redskins don't make the Playoffs. BTW has anyone read or listened to Portis' interviews? What a thug-like egomaniac.
  4. If Terrell Owens is healthy at the start of the season and his hamstring doesn't cause him anymore problems during the season, I believe the Cowboys may represent the NFC in the SuperBowl. Call me crazy, but he may have been the missing piece. How much of a distraction is he being while he recovers? Parcells will push this team, but will Owens respond? I think this will probably be Owens' last chance.
  5. Alot of people are talking about the strength of the Baltimore Ravens and new QB Steve McNair. While I think they're better with him, if Jamal Lewis is not back to top form, teams will key on McNair and punish him into a missed time injury. No vintage Lewis, no McNair-led playoff appearance.
  6. My beloved Kansas City Chiefs are going to live and die by their ability to run the ball effectively. Without Willie Roaf on the O-Line, is that a possibility? Larry Johnson and Tony Gonzalez are great and will probably do well enough. But once again, they didn't address the glaring problem of having only 2nd-rate Wide Receivers. Bank the year on who? Eddie Kennison? Sammy Knight? Is there a chance we can re-sign Otis Taylor, Carlos Carson, or Joe Horn? And don't get me started on the defense.
  7. Keep an eye on the backup Running Back for the New England Patriots. His name is Lawrence Maroney and he is large. He'll back-up Corey Dillon and if what I saw the other night is true, the Pats are in good hands if Dillon goes down. In fact Maroney may push Dillon to the sidelines before the season is done. Check him out if you get the chance.
  8. The Oakland Raiders have ALOT of talent on Offense. The Denver Broncos have alot of talent period. Jay Cutler looked very professional the other night. Here's what I think about both teams. I hope both teams experience debillitating hemorrhoid problems sometime during the year, as they are the Chiefs' hated rivals and I despise both teams.
  9. The League-leaders in off-season arrests, the Cincinnatti Bengals (led by Chris Henry, with 4 off-season busts), are going to live and die by what Carson Palmer is able to do. No healthy Palmer? No deep playoff run. They should have represented the AFC last year, if not for Palmer's knee injury on the 1st play from scrimmage in the 1st playoff game vs. Pittsburgh. A shame.
  10. I like Ronnie brown, but I'm not sure he's ready to handle 25-30 touches per game. He's always shared time and last year, his rookie campaign, he only averaged 13-15 touches per game. If he's not up to the task, the Dolphins aren't anywhere near as good.
  11. The New York Giants? Close, but no cigar. Try the Carolina Panthers instead.
  12. Donovan McNabb, Brett Favre, and Chad Pennington are all in trouble this year.
  13. The Saints will surprise alot of people this year, and will actually do better if they rely on Reggie Bush rather than Deuce McPukeister.
  14. The best Defensive teams for fantasy players will be Chicago, Washington, Pittsburgh, Dallas, Carolina, and the Ravens.
  15. LenDale White of the Titans is obviously a self-important thug and if he doesn't get a hold of himself soon, may turn into Maurice Clarett.

That's all for now on football. More as training camp progresses. Pay attention as the season moves along, and you'll see that Len Is Right!!

I am,

Len Tollerton

Monday, August 14, 2006

VARIOUS TOPICS FOR MONDAY

Hey People:
Just some quick thoughts before I head off to work.
  • The NY Mets win another weekend series, 2 games to one over the Washington Nationals to retain a 14-game lead in the NL East
  • With the BP oil line breaking down in Alaska, does this mean our gasoline prices will soar to $3.50 or $4.00 per gallon?
  • When can we expect an angry mob to go to the White House with pitchforks and burning torches, chanting "GET OUT NOW!!" to Dubya?
  • On Saturday, trainer Todd Pletcher had a horse win a race on the turf at Saratoga that paid $15 to win. Wish I had jumped on that one. Keep an eye out for Pletcher's horses on the grass.
  • Is anyone keeping up with, or watching the HBO Series Deadwood? How about Entourage? Both are on on Sunday nights and both have been great all season. Worth the time if you don't mind the cursing.
  • I'm working the day shift this week, then I've got 2 weeks of vacation...Yesssss.
  • Painted my son's room the other day. Dragonfire orange. The old color was baby Blue. After 3 coats of Behr paint, some of the blue was still bleeding through. WTF?
  • Congrats to Jamie Gold for winning the Main Event at the World Series of Poker and the $12,000,000 first prize.
  • Just rented the movie Inside Man, with Denzel Washington and Jodie Foster. Really engrossing movie, very interesting. However, the closure at the end of the film is not as complete as I would have liked. Definitely worth seeing. Remember that time jumps around, so don't get confused.

Allright, I have to go to work. I'll talk to you soon. Thanks for visiting Len Is Right. Please click on my Links below and buy something, will Ya!!

I am,

Len Tollerton

Thursday, August 10, 2006

GOLF, PORCO TRIAL, AND THE TERRORIST PLOT

Hey Y'all:
Sorry for not posting this week. A little writer's block. Anyway, I wanted to go over a few quick things of interest. So here goes.

GOLF AND THE MOWING OF A GOLF COURSE
Today, I played a round of golf with some friends (Roy, Tim, and BVA) at Amsterdam Municipal golf course. If you've never played there, I would suggest you try to get out there. It is fairly long (most Par-4's over 380), fairly challenging, and in very nice shape. The greens were fast and it appears they do a nice job taking care of the place. Plus, the food is really good. The salads and sandwiches are pretty darn large. You really get your money's worth. The only problem was......

THE PET PEEVE OF THE G.B.KING
Good friend Roy, the G.B.King, has, for years now, complained vociferously that golf courses should be fitting their riding lawn mowers with flood lights so they can do the mowing of the course at night. How many times have we all been out there playing a nice round, only to have to wait for a lawn tractor to get out of a certain area, or been bothered by the noise when you're trying to make a shot? It's happened to us a ton of times and it has gotten old. Noise doesn't bother me too much, but some golfers don't handle the sound and sight of moving lawn equipment well, while trying to make a "pressure" putt.

I think the mowing at night is a pretty good idea. I don't know if it's feasible safety-wise, or sight-wise (can you see well enough at night with lights to mow correctly?), but it would be interesting to see a golf course try it.

THE PORCO TRIAL IN UPSTATE NY
20 months ago a man in Delmar, NY (near Albany), by the name of Peter Porco was brutally murdered in his home. His wife, who was asleep at the time, was also visciously attacked while she slept. Within one month, the younger son of Mr. and Mrs. Porco was under suspicion. This case may have been in the national news because of the brutality of the attack. Mr. Porco, who was a friendly, mild, hard-working man, was attacked with an axe and bludgeoned to a pulp. His wife was also attacked with the axe, but managed to survive, losing an eye and being knocked senseless. The younger son was subsequently indicted for the crime and for the last 7 weeks the trial took place in Goshen, NY, so as to get it away from the local, possibly biased jurors who had seen every aspect of the case played out in the news on T.V. and the papers. 2 policemen associated with the case died during the investigation. The prosecution was going to have a hard time proving their case. Luckilly, the local and state police forces did a great job in the investigation and today, the D.A. was able to get a Guilty verdict from the jury. Christopher Porco, the Defendant, received the verdict with no reaction and is expected to get a 50 years-to-Life sentence for his crime. We in upstate NY are happy with the verdict and are happy to see the system work the way it was designed.

Unfortunately, a family has been torn apart and destroyed. A father has lost his life at the hands of his son. A woman has lost her husband and her youngest son. The older son has lost his father, his little brother, and has to worry about the recovery, both physically and mentally, of his mother, while serving in the Armed Forces. The rest of their extended family has nothing but sorrow to deal with over this whole thing. Both sides' lawyers did their jobs well and made the appropriate post-trial statements. The entire thing is a rotten shame.

Hug and hold your loved ones tonight and hope you never have to experience anything like the tragedy and horror that the Porco family has had to endure over the last 2 years.

Someone will probably have a best-selling book out in the next 6 months and you'll probably see a feature film or TV movie in the next few years. America will eat it right up and someone will make a ton of money off of someone else's pain. How do you like them apples?

RADICAL MUSLIMS AT IT AGAIN
Well, here we go again. Is it all in the name of Allah? Is this the kind of difference they were hoping to make in the world? Terror. 10, count-'em, 10 planes targeted in England for bomb explosions, hoping to down the planes in the Atlantic. Now, you hate to profile people because of race, religion, whatever. But did you know that a few weeks ago there was a fairly large Islamic-led protest in London that had people holding up signs that said stuff like, "England you're next." "Europe will be brought to its knees." And "Your 9-11 is Coming." All this, why? Are you freakin' serious? You pissant, non-bathing, faux holier-than-thou bastards! You got everyones attention, okay? What's it going to take? Do you really want to see the wanton slaughter and genocide of your PATHETIC race and religion? In the battle of my God is better than your God, do you think Allah is really going to take credit for all your bullshit? When the rest of the free world finally decides they've had enough, and wipes the planet clean of your kind...even the innocent peace-loving Muslims, do you think that the 72 fat, toothless, unbathed virgins will be worth it? I hope so, cause you assholes are making the joint unlivable. Are you trying to wipe out all of mankind? While it's true that a total cleansing of the planet of humans for 1000 years probably wouldn't be the worst thing, it's not likely. You fuckers come over to America and buy up the majority of mini-marts and gas stations. You refuse to honor a single goddamn coupon. You don't pay taxes for 7 years. You are given every opportunity. If you don't like it in the desert with the asshole Jews of Israel, just move to America and open another 7-11.

FOR FUCK-SAKE GIVE IT A REST YOU PATHETIC EXCUSES FOR HUMANS, YOU FILTHY SCUM OF THE EARTH. WE ALL GOTTA LIVE.

Please excuse my cursing. It truly shows my ignorance. However, I'm just so damn tired of the entire Game Of Death being played by a bunch of self-important religious zealots. They should all just go and dig a hole in a sand dune and hump the hole till the blood runs out of their ears.

I don't have to say it, but I will.........LEN IS RIGHT!!!!!!
I am,
Len Tollerton
And if you don't like what I have to say, change the channel, make a comment, or just kiss my ASS!!

Sunday, August 06, 2006

ANOTHER TOURNEY AND A NEW FAMILY GAME

Hello All:
Today is Sunday the 6th of August. It is another gorgeous day on vacation. I think a bike ride and some whiffle ball to fill up part of the day.

THE POKER TOURNEY IN SUBURBIA

Last night I joined the G.B. King and The Edge of Darkness at a great poker tournament in Guilderland. You had to see this house. You pull onto the street, a high-end cul-de-sac, and are greeted by what has to be a $400,000 house. Perfectly manicured lawn and shrubbery flank a winding driveway which leads up to the garage and big backyard. In the backyard, the hour-glass shaped pool is surrounded by a nice black wrought-iron fence. Nice patio furniture and "hidden-in-the-rock" speakers decorate around the pool (which is heated and lighted). The yard is large enough for all sorts of swing sets and other kids' stuff.

The tournament was played by a full contingent of 32 players at four tables. Roy and I were seated at table 1. The first All-In bust out happened about 1/2 hour into the tourney. As people busted out, others got moved to fill-in their spots. Shortly after we broke down to 3 tables, Roy busted out. Chuck and I held our own for quite a while. I was one of the chip leaders at my table after pulling an Ace-high flush on the river to take a large pot just before we went into break. Shortly after the break I called a guy's All-In bet and looked at his pocket Aces. He tripled up through me and another guy and he was off to the races.

They then broke down to 2 tables. I was at a table with some large chip stacks and had to do alot of folding, unable to play marginal hands or push the action because the larger stacks were playing every hand, regardless of what they held. So, I had to pick my spots. I was able to do well for quite a while. Chuck then busted out to bring the players down to 10. One player bust-out later, we broke down to a Final Table of nine players. Unfortunately, they were only paying 8 spots (4-8 got their money back). I was the short stack on the table. I was on the Big Blind, with about $6000 in chips. I knew my time was short. I then made my only real fatal mistake of the night. I was holding 9-10 suited. The flop came up Q-8-4. I now had 4-ways to a (Inside) Straight. Rather than making a smart Check, I decided to represent a pair of Queens and hope to hit the straight. I went All-In. The guy who tripled up through me earlier was my only caller (almost got away with it). This guy was really annoying to play with. He's one of these guys that has to be told when it's his turn to act, or when it's time to deal. I don't know if it was a ploy or not. Actually it was pretty annoying. Anyway, he turns over A-8. So, now he's got a pair of 8's. The turn comes with another 8, so now I'm really in trouble. I need a Jack and nothing else to make my straight and win. The river brought an Ace and his full-house of Aces and 8's eliminated me in 9th place, on the bubble, with no money. Roy was very quick to chide me on being stupid and making that move instead of checking and folding until I saw a Premium hand. He was right, but if the Jack had come I would have looked like a (lucky) genius. I played well until then. Anyway, it was a well-run tournamnet and everyone had a good time.

A NEW FAMILY OR PARTY GAME
Later on at the tournament a bunch of people, which included some "well-oiled" wives who were hanging out inside the huge house, started playing this dice game called Left-Center-Right. Everyone at the table starts out with 3 dollars (or chips if playing with kids). You put a large bowl or dish into the center of the table. There are 3 dice that have an L, a C, and an R, along with single black dots on them. As each person rolls, the dice tell what happens. If you roll all dots, you get to keep your dollars. If you get an L or an R, you pass a dollar to the person in that direction. If you get a C, you throw a dollar into the bowl in the Center. If you end up having less than 3 dollars in front of you, you roll the number of dice that corresponds to what you have (2 dollars rolls 2 dice. 1 rolls 1). Even if you have nothing in front of you, you are not technically out because someone next to you may make a roll that sends a chip or dollar to you. The winner is the last person to have something left infront of them, with the rest of the chips or dollars in the bowl in the center. It's a faster, easier game than, say, UNO, and is alot of fun for a party. Many times I see people hanging out at parties with nothing to do, maybe not wanting to get invloved with cards. This is a game that EVERYONE can play and have fun with. Plus, there's the chance to win a few dollars, which appeals to the gamblers in the crowd. You can find this game for sale on EBay for around $6.00, or at certain gaming stores.

THANKS TO THE HOSTS
I'd like to thank Joe and Suzanne Gunther for opening up their beautiful home and yard for everyone to enjoy at the tournament. I'd like to send kudos to Nico, who ran a smooth tournament. I'd like to thank Chuck the E.O.D. for getting me into the game. I'd also like to thank those fellows who were sharing the combustibles. You made the evening that much more enjoyable. Also, I'd like to mention that Joe, the host, had some delicious home-brew on tap (OnTap no-less!) that flowed the entire evening. Living large doesn't necessarilly mean you have to be a snob. The Gunthers and their friends are down-to-earth, extremely friendly people, who seem to have a good time sharing time with friends. I'd like to thank them both again for making sure everyone had such a good time.

This leads to Len's point of the day. Snobbishness is unnecessary and wrong. This is obvious to most of us. But occasionally we run into those folks whose attitudes about themselves seems a little high. People, can't we all just get along. Who cares if you have a mansion or a shack? Who cares if you drive a brand-new Mercedes or a 10-year-old Chebby? Isn't it better for us just to enjoy each other's company and have fun? We spend our lives slaving in order to get to the days when we can have fun. No need to have a "better-than-you" attitude is there? HELL NO!!
Don't be a snob. There endeth the lesson...and of course you know that LEN IS RIGHT!!

Peace Earthlings.
I am,
Len Tollerton

Friday, August 04, 2006

RESPONSE AND VACATION

Hello Minions:
Today is Friday and I'm officially on vacation. No travel plans, but I WILL be starting the bathroom project on Tues. or Wed. Looking forward to the upstairs john and not having to wait anymore to use the facilities.

A RESPONSE TO THE KOEHLER WOMEN
First, Miss Koehler. JK, you are obviously smitten with Mr. Wright, believing that he, like Matt & Pat Carroll, JJ Redick, and Marcus Giles may, IN FACT, be Mr. Right. I'm willing to believe that one smile from Dave, or maybe a kiss on the cheek would be enough to bring you over to the new Mets Stadium as a TRUE fan of the Blue and Orange. And what a catch!! When you think about it, your parents can't even object to this pick because he's a good guy, athletic, and rich (or soon to be).

People's memories are short. Who's going to remember, down the road, that you were a Big Braves fan? Eventually, only your family and me. You can claim ignorance after that. And with the money the METS will be paying him, who'll care?

Your righteous indignation belies your true feelings. YOU LUUUUUUV DAVID WRIGHT.

Mrs. Koehler:
First off, Len Is Never Wrong unless Len admits it. Like, when I do poorly at my horse-racing picks. Otherwise, Len Is Right. And you have the shirt to prove it. Do you have a Barb Is Right shirt? I doubt it.
Second, Shea Stadium may smell like piss, but it at least was witness to 2 World Championships. I believe Fulton County Stadium/Turner Field has only seen one. What have you done for me lately?

You know I love you both like sistahs!!

2 Poker Tourneys this weekend. One is for chump change, "just social--gag," though I'm happy to be playing. And the other is more serious and for more money. I will be attending with my Good Brothers Roy the G.B. King and Chuck The Edge of Darkness. Who's finishing third, I wonder?

NEW LINKS AND DEALS
In the Links section are great deals from Luggage Online, Netflix, DateNation.com, Camping World, and Paul Frederick's Mens' Styles. Check 'em out folks. Len Is Right needs the clicks and the biz to stay alive on the Internet. No, I'm kidding. I'll always be here. But save yourself some money by checking them out. Soon, look for new Links from WaySpa, Woogo, Music123, ESPN Store, Spa Finder and more!!

Don't be afraid. Remember that Len Is Right. Please spread the word. I DO appreciate it.

Peace for the day.
Len Tollerton

Thursday, August 03, 2006

TO MRS. T.

Hello all:
The shortest post of all-time for me.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, MY DEAR!!
On this, our 20th Wedding Anniversary, I'd like to tell my lovely wife, Patty, that I'd still marry you. Or...I'd marry you all over again. I love you as much, or more, today as I did on that day. I can't wait for the party. I look forward to sharing another 20 years and beyond with you.

All My Love Forever,
LT

Monday, July 31, 2006

A NOTE TO MRS. KOEHLER

Hello friends:
Today, a very short post intended for the attention of one dear person. I'm sorry, make that two. But I'm also hoping that everyone reads and enjoys it.

Mrs. Koehler:
Finally, after 14 despicable years of hope and disappointment, it looks like the Piece of Garbage Braves from Atlanta will be handing over the Division Crown to the only other team that deserves it. It was extremely enjoyable watching the first Mets sweep of the Braves in Atlanta since 1985.

Miss J. Koehler:
The enjoyment factor was made exponentially so by having Crapper Jones injure his oblique muscle. Watching him writhe in pain in the Braves dugout was almost as good as smacking his smug-ass face myself.

To both Koehler women:
DIE BRAVES!! DIE!! DIE!! DIE!! DIE!! DIE!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!

To the rest of my fantastic readers, even Brick City Craig the Braves fan, I'd like to thank you for indulging this long-suffering Mets fan. You see, the Mets, too, have insured that Len Is Right!!!

L. Tollerton

Saturday, July 29, 2006

AN ANSWER TO THE EDGE OF DARKNESS

The Edge of Darkness wrote to ask if I had any insight to who will be in the playoffs and go to the Super Bowl. It's difficult to give an educated answer or a final answer until Training Camps are over. But I will give my early season picks.

AFC East--Miami
AFC North--Pittsburgh
AFC South--Indy
AFC West--Denver
Wild Cards--Kansas City and Cincinnatti

AFC Champion--Denver

NFC East--Dallas
NFC North--Chicago
NFC South--Carolina
NFC West--Seattle
Wild Cards--Washington and Arizona

NFC Champion--Carolina

Super Bowl Champion--Carolina

Ask me again when the season begins.
LIR!!

TODAY'S TAKE AND THE ZEN OF THE B.M.

Welcome to Len Is Right:
Today I am writing in an encouraged state of mind, as yesterday's round of golf at Schenectady Municipal garnered me an 84, my best round of the year. I hadn't played in about 3 weeks and I wasn't expecting any better than an 88. In truth, I believe my score should have been around 79, but I putted horribly from short range, usually my strong point. I had 8 pars and 1 birdie, and actually putted for Eagle on the last hole from about 15 feet and was lucky enough to puke up a 3-putt for a par. So much for delusions of grandeur. On an up note, I drove the ball well all day long, never getting myself into trouble involving the woods and my irons and chipping game were pretty good too. I just had trouble sinking putts. I'm looking forward to the next time I play, though it depends on the course, I suppose.

THE NEW PROJECT AT THE HOUSE
Well, we now have a plan and starting date for the new bathroom project. For years now, the lovely wife has been asking for a bathroom upstairs in the house. I was finally able to put together enough money and hired a reputable and talented contractor to do the job. Why a bathroom upstairs? Very simple. Other than convenience, the real reason is that when your bedroom is upstairs and you have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, the adrenalin you use climbing back up the stairs after using the bathroom downstairs, effectively makes falling back to sleep very difficult. Once you get back up to bed, unless you're dead-tired, your mind usually starts getting thoughts of whatever is going on in your life, and it ends up taking a while to fall back to sleep. This makes for some long days if you're a teacher and you have to be on your toes around school children. In any event, the bathroom project will be going on during the month of August, and will be eliminating the chance for us to get to the ocean for a few days because I'll be helping the contractor, to save money.

A GROSS BUT NECESSARY TOPIC
After reading this section, you'll probably ask yourself, "Why did Len feel the need to rant on this? This is disgusting!" Yes, but I believe it is necessary AND helpful. If you are of a sensitive constitution, stop here and come back and read on another day. If you are not so squeamish, please forge ahead and I will give you some helpful advice.

Without further ado, I bring you.................
THE ZEN OF THE BOWEL MOVEMENT
I know, I know. You're thinking, "This guy is off his rocker." But folks, after years of speaking with people and being alongside people in public bathrooms (adjoining stalls), I have come up with some advice for having the smoothest possible bowel movement.

I have often been in a Men's Room doing my business in the stall and have heard the poor soul next to me grunting and pushing, breathing heavy and heaving large sorrowful sighs. You know that when you hear these sounds, that the person next to you is having no fun, that they may be experiencing pain, and may be bringing upon themselves a hellacious case of hemorrhoids. This needn't be, my friends.

First off, your bowel movement is somewhat dependent on your diet. While I will not expound on dietary choices, I will say that there are certain foods we eat that make it difficult for all that is inside of us to come out smoothly. Indeed, some foods end up remaining in our colons for years! Sounds hard to believe, right? But did you know that when John Wayne died, they found food in his colon that they believe was in there for 40 years. Now, before I make this post into a lecture of how to clean your colon, let me impart the Information that you REALLY need. First off, pushing and grunting because you are in a hurry, or because you hate being in the bathroom, or because your legs have fallen asleep doesn't really help, and can, in fact, be detrimental. It causes longer wipe times and may trigger a "blowout", which none of us really need. How do we combat this? This is.....

THE ZEN...
Okay, I'll try to make this short and sweet. Upon sitting upon the "throne," I recommend a very slight spreading of the cheeks. And I mean very slight. Radical overspreading can cause the "Whistling Balloon" Effect. The Whistling Balloon Effect is like what happens when you try to let a little air out of a balloon that you've just blown up. You pull apart, or stretch the opening of the balloon in order to make a whistling or squeaking sound. While this works for balloons, it is bad for the rectum. You don't want a tightened orifice. You do, however, want to get the cheeks out of the way, especially if you are a hairy person. Next, relax. You need to try and put away other thoughts that you may be having and concentrate on relaxing your body. I'm not saying you need to put yourself to sleep or in a trance. But it really behooves you to get into a muscularly relaxed state. After relaxing your body muscles, the next thing you want to do is to breathe deeply and slowly. This slows down your heartrate and relaxes you so your bodily functions flow more smoooooothly. This relaxation technique brings on a thing I like to call "The Slide." See, you want the Slide. You want to AVOID the Machine Gun or the Depth Charge. The Slide is where it's at. The Slide is what all Zen Masters aspire to. Can you dig what I mean?

Now I realize this process takes a little longer than the old push and grunt method. But with a little practice you will get the process down faster and your body will be ready to relax and make "The Slide" a reality. What this will do, will be to more easily make sure the colon is clean, and will help you avoid hemorrhoids and fissures that "creep" up when you are doing a stressful bowel movement.

ONCE AGAIN...THE ZEN METHOD
To recap, once you are seated comfortably, you do a very slight spread, you relax body muscles, you breathe deeply, and finally allow for "The Slide." Finally, I would like to recommend the use of a Witch Hazel pad (like Tucks, but there are generic pads you can buy). They prevent hemorrhoids and ensure a clean rectum. Please excuse my indelicateness.

THERE YOU HAVE IT!!
Okay, I am done. If you follow my advice, you too can become a true disciple of Len Is Right!!
Remember, any questions on Life, Love, Sports, Entertainment, Sex, Religion, Politics, and the World Condition will be answered in a timely manner. All you have to do is submit.

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It has been my pleasure to post for you today. Keep the Faith....because, as always, Len Is Right!!

I am,
Len Tollerton