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28 User Reviews of Lirica Cruise Ship
This was our 19th cruise and first on an MSC ship. Our travel agent told us how great their previous experience was on the Lirica 2 years ago. Well things have changed.
The major compalaint by our group of 52, plus probably at least a 100 more, was the dining time assignments. We were promised upon booking in April first seating and that was verified the day before sailing. Upon boarding we discovered we were all on late seating and were told by crew staff there was nothing they could do about it.
We believe what happened was MSC overbooked early seating big time knowing the passengers were older on this cruise and wanted early seating. In my opinion they led us on knowing if they told us up front only late seating was available, many would not sign up! Once on board we were trapped! Very poor!
The inexperienced crew did the best they could and the food was average at best! Found out all chefs but the head chef was new and from India, and the blandness of the food reflected this. Hard to find snacks or coffee available atall times.
On the positive side, this was the cleanest ship we have sailed on. The entertainment was very good, dining room wait staff and cabin service was excellent and we heard "Time to Say Goodbye" sang on the PA system upon leaving each port -- very classy.
However because of MSC's obvious dishonesty to sign us up for early seating, this will be our last MSC cruise!
There were enough things wrong on our 10 day cruise that my wife and I seriously doubt this company can stay in business for very long. I can't imagine what incentive would get us back on MSC.
The most glaring problem was the food. Cruise dining is supposed to be a grand experience. This was just a bland experience. I think they left the garlic, oregano and salt on the docks at home. The dining room food was small portioned and uninspired at best. The buffet was borderline inedible. The overall experience was like a poor cafeteria run by beginner cooks who used a lot of canned goods. There was none of the "regional Italian" experience we expected. And the wait staff didn't know much about what was on the menu, nor could they speak English well enough to support their efforts.
Communication was a problem with almost all the staff except the excursion and entertainment personnel. The higher up the chain of command you get, the less likely you are to get any sympathy or understanding. The purser (or "Bank" as it said over his window) refused to break any largebills into smaller denominations, suggesting we try the casino. That worked until the casino caught on.
The ship was clean, but felt small. The rooms were compact, and the shops seemed almost an afterthought. Besides being small, the variety of goods was small and uninspired. The shop manager on our trip told us he couldn't wait to get off and would never work for the line again.
Overall, we enjoyed ourselves, but no great thanks to the Lirica. The islands were beautiful, the ship was on time, the weather was lovely. But nobody we talked to or overheard was happy with the services on board.
We have made 46 cruises, and this cruise, by far, was the worst cruise we have ever taken.
1. The suite was very nice, plenty of closets and nice decoration. Balcony had RATTAN chairs. Every night water came all the way up to our suite, leaving nice pieces of salt between the rattan to be used for breakfast, I guess.
2. A lot of brass all over the ship, shining at all times.
3. To the contrast of the above, were the scoffed officers' shoes or sneakers.
4. No matter who you wanted to talk to -- housekeeping, room service, photo or any other shop etc., etc. -- you could only call 99, front desk, and they wanted to know at all times who you wanted and what you wanted to talk about. Every crew member was scared. During dinner, supervisors were making notes as to what the pax. wanted and what the waiter ordered, so that he could not order something more for himself. They were watching their supervisors at all times over their shoulder. VERY UNCOMFORTABLE. I did know what the waiters talked about to each other. Nearly all ofthem Indonesian, 350 of them from Bali and Jakarta alone. I have lived in Indonesia for 19 years, during that time having 6 servants and a factory with 600 employees. I speak their language fluently, could understand it, and all I picked up was that they only get 2 meals a day. No wonder they tried to get some extra. No wonder that one day a servant from Madagascar jumped overboard, that the next day a servant from India jumped overboard and then a servant from China wanted to jump, but they were able to get to him at the last minute and locked him up. The ship went in circles for over 5 hours, so we missed Cayo Levantado, Samana, Dominican Republic, and went to Nassau instead. There were no announcements regarding the 2 dead people, etc., etc., and no apologies either.
5. I requested 99 during the night some orange juice (book says room service 24 hours round the clock). 99 got me a room service guy on the phone, who told me that he could not bring orange juice, but he could come to our cabin to explain it all to me, absurd. A CONFERENCE WITH A BELL BOY AT NIGHT RE: ORANGE JUICE?
6. One night I was very sick. The doctor visited me in my cabin, gave antibiotics and told me to eat something. I asked my wife to bring me some desert. NOT ALLOWED. She had to take the desert in her evening handbag so that nobody saw it, otherwise the waiter would get into trouble.
7. 30% or so of the pax. were deaf mutes. They all went as a pack to whatever public room they were headed, leaving no room for others. To make it worse, any announcement or speech or instruction was said in Italian, Spanish, French, German and last, but not least, even English for the 15% or so American and English-speaking guests.
8. In regards to point number 5, I did visit the Head of Hotel and his assistant. They told me that this would NEVER happen again. I told them that in my opinion they had no authority whatsoever. Needless to say that never DID get the orange juice. However, the next day I got a bottle of champagne and chocolate covered strawberries. Ra Ra.
9. The food was terrible, hardly any choices. They did not know what a soufflee was, and thought a ceasar salad was iceberg salad with slices of cheese on top. I guess I'd better stop. One thing was funny, they report to US Customs all purchases made. So they called me and wanted to see my Custom declaration, because I bought more than the exempt $800 -- all of it was on my declaration.
10. Suggestion: MCR CRUISE COMP stay in Europe. You people have NO idea what brings Americans on board. I could not find ONE American couple who would sail with you again. Formal night 3, nearly all Americans in Tux, maybe 70% of the Europeans did not know what a Tux meant, I guess, but they all know slippers and shorts, and Italian woman all like movie stars. HOWEVER NOTHING STOPPED US AND THE OTHER PAX WE TRAVELLED TOGETHER WITH FROM HAVING A GOOD TIME. After all, there was at most times plenty of food and the shore excursions were very nice and well organized.
Our Cruise on the MSC Lirica 12-04-07 to 12-14-07
I am writing this review mostly for people that have not cruised on the MSC Lirica or with MSC cruise line to supply insight from seasoned cruisers. Over the past 22 years my wife Margaret and I have sailed on Princess, NCL, RCCL, Carnival, and Commodore cruise lines.
Our cruise departed from Ft. Lauderdale on 12-04-07 and returned 12-14-07 and we will start by reviewing the check in process or lack there of. We arrived for check in fairly early at about 12 noon as the MSC office had told us that was a proper time to arrive. The previous cruisers were still in the process of leaving the ship and there was much confusion on what to do with the arriving passengers and their luggage. It took some time to find anyone that knew what to do with our luggage but we finely did find a porter. We went into the area designated for arriving passengers and were given a number 3 and then lead to the "holding" area where we sat a long time but we did meet some veryinteresting people from Philadelphia. Finally after what seemed an eternity (probably more like 1-1/2 hours) were let into the check in area where there were like 14 lines and you just picked any line. As can be expected some lines move faster then others, and it appeared that a lot of the computers the check-in personal were using either did not work or the personnel were very unfamiliar with them. After some time in line we reached the check in lady and this went fairly well as we had pre-registered at http://www.msccruisesusa.com and that appeared to have helped a lot. Several people had trouble with their check-in due to lack of all required travel documents, or a credit card or lack of a passport, all of which were listed as requirements on http://www.msccruisesusa.com/guidaallacrociera/default.asp?guida_id=9&page_id=397 . The cruise line requires you to have a credit card on file or a cash deposit as they list this as cashless cruising, upon check in you are given a passenger card to use for all purchases onboard and to ID you upon leaving the ship or returning to the ship during your trip. The cruise line will also deduct gratuities at $12 per passenger per day to your listed credit card (more on this later). We were then allowed to board the ship. At the entrance to the gangway were the ever present ship's photographers (more on them later).
Upon arrival aboard the Lirica we were met by head steward that handed us off to a white gloved steward who took us via elevator to our cabin which is a Veranda suite cabin number 10071. The suite was very large and comfortable with a queen bed, fold out couch, chair, small but very adequate walk in closet, drawer space, bathroom with tub and shower, and very nice veranda. NOTE: there is NO smoking on any verandas on the MSC Lirica and also smoking is discouraged in the cabins -- there are like 8 to 10 places on the ship one can smoke and that is all.
This ship has truly an international clientele. Our table mates were from Sweden and a very nice couple and we were pleased to meet so many people from various countries. It is not a typical American cruise. All of the announcements are given in 5 languages and on cruises to the Caribbean English is given 1st.
The passengers on our cruise were surprisingly old, perhaps due to the length of the cruise (over seven days). There were only a handful of children and young couples. There were few single people onboard.
Because the Lirica uses a predetermined gratuity rate (12%), the staff does not try to win somebody's favor by pleasing him or her, especially in order to gain an advantage. We believe this makes the service way below what it use to be and we do not like it at all -- plain and simple put service suffers a LOT because of this policy. BUT it is used by almost all the cruise lines now. I have asked the staff if they ever get the tips we supply this way and have received many different responses but most staff say yes in a divided way with the management getting the majority of the money and the working staff getting very little. You can always tell accounting you'll do it yourself, if you don't agree with the rate or you want to recognize service individually.
Our cabin steward was the best staff member we met on the cruise, always there when you needed him and the room was always made up and immaculate. He kept things in tip-top shape, including a supply of ice and fresh fruit at all times.
The waiters and waitresses in the dining room were way below standard especially on the 1st night but after we talked to the maitre d' things got somewhat better. They only have one waiter and NO bus boy for about 6 tables and the staff always seems behind, our water did tell us that the kitchen was under staffed and that made the wait staff always behind.
Most passengers felt the food was below quality level, and that is very true when it comes to meats and desserts. The one night we had lobster it was beyond dry and there was no drawn butter served with it, it was very bad. The Italian dishes were good. The desserts are not very tasty or imaginative. One oddity -- there is no free ice cream. The menu was very limited.
I am a shopper but my wife is not and there are very few shops on the Lirica, maybe 4 or 5 and that included a shop dedicated to cameras, computers, and all things electrical and that shop was way way over priced. The liquor shop is GREAT and has GREAT bargains, the Emeralds International shops was also Great and had a wonderful staff and many bargains although you had to look for the bargains which are in watches and NOT jewelry. The clothes shop had very few t-shirts and very very few items with the ships logo. This shop was very limited. The perfume shop was also over priced
The personnel from the Photo Shop are very nice and very professional and take very nice photos but most passengers thought the photos were very over priced.
The tour desk was manned surprisingly little of the time, and the personnel at that desk did not appear overly concerned or helpful. They were not very familiar with the actual tours, and as a result were of little help. Find out about the tours in advance, this can be done by going to http://www.msccruisesusa.com/crociere/risultato.asp?periodo=12&page_id=48&anno=2007 clicking on your cruise, and then clicking on any port and it will list the tours available.
If you are looking to rest and relax on deck, near the pool, you will have a very, very hard time as there is continuing "entertainment" spewing from the microphone, whether athletics, quizzes, or games and there are deck chairs everywhere and none to spare.
The MSC information concerning ship's dress is somewhat misleading. Everyone brought way too many dressy clothes. There are only three nights requiring coats and ties, and the other evenings are informal, despite the literature calling for coats and ties almost every night.
In the casino, the two blackjack tables were invariably full, yet a third was not manned the also had two roulette tables, although we only saw one ever in use, and there was a craps table. The personnel are nice and very helpful. When we 1st. came on, there was one penny slot and 3 nickel slots, although one was out of order the entire cruise. After a day or two they did convert 4 quarter slots to nickels. My wife was lucky enough to leave the ship a winner and this is most unusual on any cruise line.
The entertainment was not to our liking so we did not attend any shows on board but our fellow passengers told us that the entertainment was not very good. First and second seating are at odd times, so that the usual procedure of flip-flopping the nightly shows doesn't work. The second show follows the second seating. If you retire fairly early, you'll need the first seating, if you want to see the entertainment. First seating is an early 5:45.
The itinerary listed was great but due to bad weather we were cut short on our stay in Roadtown (Tortola) and had to skip Cayo Levantado (Samanà - D.R.) And replace that with Nassau Bermuda.
Also this ship appeared to ride very rough throughout the cruise and I do believe it is because the Captain did not deploy the stabilizers probably to save money on fuel.
Tips Deck six is the wide promenade deck. Strangely, there are no deck chairs anywhere, and it's the only deck where the smokers can go. The chaise lounges are found by the pool on deck 11, on the track on deck 12, and on the fantails. The fantails are the ship's secret. They run from deck six all the way up to deck 12. Most people don't even know they are there.
Don't bring more than three dress outfits.
Cokes are $2.50 each but you can buy a Coke card that gives you a small discount. Mixed drinks have some odd bar prices. Crown Royal is $3.90 unless you have it with water and then its $4.60 because it's now a "cocktail".
Summary In conclusion, this ship definitely did not live up to our most conservative expectations. Our expectations were based upon the literature that MSC Lines distributed as well as our previous cruising experience. All in all we had a good time. However, there was nothing that made us feel we wanted to return. As our travel agent said "you get what you pay for," BUT with MSC you really do not.
Wonderful relaxing cruise. This was our 21 cruise. I am a young 60 my wife is 53. We had second seating dining. Our cabin was an inside on deck 9
I grade my cruises as follows. "A" Is exceptional. "B" Is good. "C" Is average. I would expect my cruise to be "C" or better. "D" Is poor. "E" Is horrible.
Ship. I grade the ship a B. It was extremely clean. Laid out well. Many lounges. We never had a problem finding a seat in a lounge. Shops were very limited in size and selections. They never hardly every announce anything.
Cabin. Would be a grade of "C. They were small only 140 sq ft. Bathroom was small. Cabin was extremely clean. No towel animals or chocolates. Some of the most comfortable beds we have ever had. Normal shower soap, shampoo and etc.
Food. Would be a "B". But I love true ITALIAN FOOD. If you like Olive Garden food you will not like Lirica food. Pasta was extremely good. Lobster wasn't the best. Beef was good. Veal was OK. My tablemate said the fish was excellent. Ice tea was very good. HotChocolate was to die for; it was made with hot milk. Breakfasts were good selection. We ate almost all of our meals in the dining room. We had table 106 in the larger dining room. Buffet was lacking. Best thing on buffet was stews and fruit. Breads were true Italian hard on the outside and soft in the middle. Pizza was very good. We found out on the last few days they will make a pizza to order for you. We order two with extra cheese. They were wonderful.
Entertainment. I grade this as a "B". They had variety shows. The Tenor was wonderful and the magician was also a quick-change artist and he was fast and very GOOD. The dancers were OK. We never attended any of the poolside games. Here is where the lack of announcements caused problems. They were over before we remembered them. My wife won bingo one night. We didn't go to bingo we just happened to be in the lounge where they played the game.
Service. I grade this with an "A". The waiter and assistant waiter were extremely good. They never introduced themselves but they knew our likes in a matter of 2 days. Teas and bread was waiting and after the first night we never had to order hot chocolate again. Bar service is very good. We don't drink anything except cokes. We always had someone near to get us a coke but didn't have to keep saying no thank you to any offers for drinks. Our cabin steward was very good he came to introduce himself on the afternoon we board and asked if we needed anything. We saw him a few time after that and he met every need we had. By the Way there was never an added tip to my coke order. The tips are $12.00 per day. 40% goes to cabin attendants (your cabin is attended to by two people), 40% goes to wait staff and bartenders/servers and the remaining 20% goes to there managers like the headwaiter and etc.
Ports. I would grade these as "A". We did Columbia, San Blas Island off of Panama, The Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Roatan Honduras and Jamaica. I loved all of the except Jamaica. Panama isn't for a prude. Topless women greeted us as we got off the ship.
Would I go on MSC again? Yes I would. I had a very relaxing cruise.
I would grade the whole cruise as a "B". Have I had better food? Yes I think Royal Caribbean is slightly better. Better cabins? Yes Carnival's are larger. Better service? No MSC had the best service of all my cruises. For the money spent it was wonderful.
Just back from an 11 day cruise on the MSC Lyrica. I loved the ship -- it was extremely clean.
The shows each night in The Broadway Theater were wonderful and there was a different one each night for all 11 nights of the cruise!
There was exceptional entertainment provided by very talented people.
The live music in each of the lounges was outstanding and geared for mature people. There were many couples dancing.
Our room was nice and the cabin personnel did a great job and were always friendly.
It was a nice experience to hear four other languages spoken other than English.
Our excursions in each port were well planned and well organized.
I found the food to be good and had no complaints about the meals.
I would definitely book another trip on the MSC Lyrica!
In short if you are used to North American Cruise Lines, like Hollond America, Royal Carribean etc then you will be as disappointed as we were on a recent 18 day cruise on MSC Lirica.
All Food was poor, tasteless, over cooked and often cold or just warm.
Language barrier existed -- 5 languages used with Italian as the first. All announcements including the nightly entertainment announced in 5 langages.
When dining for lunch and breakfast often the other people at the table could not speak English.
If you didn't want to attend the formal dining night the only food available after 5 PM was room service which was very limited. The buffet dining room closed at 5 pm. The only place to get a coffee or tea in the evening was at the bar for $2.50.
For me the most important part of a cruise is the elegant dining for great food and it was not even close on the Lirica.
The best meal that I had was the morning that we returned to L.A. at Denny's which tasted soooo good compared with the previous 18 days.
Well I wanted to take the time to write a review because I did have a GOOD experience on the Lirica. I have cruised 8 times and although it was the most unbearable lengthiest embarkation proceedure EVER, we did receive a HUGE apology 3 days later, saying it was due to lack of qualified personnel at Ft Lauderdale (There were (5) 80 year olds). The MSC crew were desperately trying to assist them verbally (not allowed to do more than that) and were just as frustrated. We waited from 11:30 until 3:30 to get on board! The crew was Italian and philippine and balinese and charming and nice, yet very unaware that "the customer is always right" policy we Americans serve with. You get more bees (if any) with honey on this ship. No one knows or cares if you have a problem, unless you take the attitude of 100% calm and friendly.
The dining room was fantastic. We ate at the Bussala restaurant and every night had two or three entrees each with our 6 course meals. We were given as much of anything we wanted and since there was sucha variety of food that tempted our taste buds, we tried every entree, whether on our own or our kids. Paulo the maitre 'd, I love YOU!, Bruno the asst. maitre 'd, you get kisses and hugs! You run your dining room with excellence and Rudy was the most pleasant happiest waiter ever and always smiled. Place your silverware on your plate and they replace at every course. They know how to serve and attend to you first class. I am a critic, so I was on the watch and found that I have never had better service elsewhere, restaurant in NYC or on vacations. On the 2nd formal night we had a succulent gorgeous huge lobster tail better than I have had in bar harbour. I must say many people did not have the same experience I had, but I am an Italian food critic raised on fine dinning and I beleive their opinion is that of the average American who doesn't know real Italian food, but that only of the local pizzeria.
Captain Giacomo was charming and drove the ship with precision. It was smooth sailing even when we were in 12 foot seas one night. I actually prefer a little movement, and was disappointed that when I disembarked (easy process) I did not have the rock n roll feeling I love that helps me sleep better in my own bed.
I boarded with 7 suitcases and when we entered our tiny cabin I had an anxiety attack! I am 350 and found the space tight for anyone, especially with 4 in a cabin. We couldn't get a balcony because only 3 are allowed, yet it is twice as big! Dumb! Well I unpacked everything and successfully put away all things! I fit 4 pieces under the two twin beds! I needed the cabin to look spotless and ship-shape so I could appreciate the small scale furniture design and feel the least cramped as possible. The bathroom was a joke! As you sat on the throne your left foot rested in the shower pan and right arm in the sink. Luckily there was a shower curtain and drain on the main floor so when you showered with the hand held you could step half outside the shower without the curtain (which would stick to you like a rain coat unless you were twiggy). Clean up was a breeze and I soon relaxed and found the cabin quite well designed and efficient and even comfortable!
I saw one or two shows which were great, but since I don't like watching shows unless I know what I am seeing first, I avoided them. I go to Bway in NYC enough and although this was the only entertainment, I preferred to be free spirited and engage in conversation with the very friendly passengers of all ages. The ship's designer was stellar and I found it the easiest ship to get around yet, and not over bling-y. Classy and well designed and super clean! Super duper perfect.
Drinks on board are crazy expensive 6-8$ and soda is 2.50 a can. The soda cards and drink cards don't save you much at all and are limited, so I drank their delicious brewed free iced tea at dinner and at room service all day! Room service menu only had cheese plate, fruit plate, continental breakfast, chicken ceasar, chicken club, tuna sandwich with potato chips, and soup. That's it 24/7! We ordered it every night! I had fresh fruit (fabulous) at 7 am everyday and only went to b'kfast 2x's in the dining room. Delicious corned beef hash and lox and bagels, and every breakfast you could want, but service confusing because open seating and not our waiters always.
We laundered a formal gown and it came back in 24 hours perfect for only 4.50! There is no self laundry on the ship, so bring a laundry hamper bag (we used a huge duffel bag and kept it under the desk area as a hamper!).
The stops were good, except when we had to tender to cayman Island and Mexico. It takes 2 hours getting off the ship! The ocean was rough due to the passing storm, and they take all the tours first. Don't pay for the tours on board if you have a large group because you can get them 1/2 price in Cayman. We had a great time swimming with the stingrays, except my 8 year old who felt afraid and the 3-4 foot waves were drowning her. Go if the water is not rough because you are in the middle of the ocean on a sandbar. The 2nd stop was snorkeling in 9 ft. I had to get help as the current was pulling me away and a surfer passenger threw me life ring. I had trouble kicking with fins on and got cramps in both my legs as I tried to swim against the current. My husband and 8 year old had trouble too and went right back on the boat, but my 12 year old daughter had no problem. The 3 people on the ship were in awesome shape and to them it was like a baby pool and they made us feel so safe. It was $40 pp and they let my 8yr old go free.
In Jamaica we went to the Sunset Beach Hotel right by dock. Gorgeous beaches and spectacular kid's clubs pool, slides, and adult pool, and all you can eat and drink for $140 the whole family! What a find! Screw climbing up the water falls 2 hours away. Relax 'mon! I did this time instead. Look up Sunset Beach on internet and see how gorgeous it is!
In mexico we took a cab for 4 to Playancar Beach and snorkeled and ate on the beach. Glorious! It costs $70 for the cab all day until 7pm. They waited for us! We saw a quaint church 150 years old and ruins buildings nearby quickly and we gathered so much coral and conch shells! We bought necklaces for $1 and recommend carved wood here and also at pier in Jamaica where everything was so cheap and art work beautiful.
Well, that's my crusise review. I paid $1200 plus air fare for a family of 4 and although accommodations were tight and no babysitting after semi-lame kids club at 9:30, the cruise was a hit and I recommend going if you have class and want to be cheap! Contact me if you have questions!
A really, really bad experience. The food was awful. The service was awful. The deck chairs were horrific as was almost everthing else on this cruise. The excursions desk was never manned and the excursions to the islands started very early and did not offer any variety at all, and the tour operators were bad.
Our waiter at dinner did not really understand much of what me and fellow tablemates asked for and they were way understaffed.
Rooms I found tiny, though well kept.
Alternative to formal dining was minimal -- pizza and hamburgers.
Library was open for 2 hours a day even though most of the books were probably left overs from previous travelers.
I would never recommend this ship or this cruise line to anyone and after reading the last review by Denise & family, I cannot understand what being cheap and having class has to do with reviewing a ship. Does disagreeing with Denise & family make you have less class or does Denise & family have a lot less class by that comment? And, what does being cheap have to do in any way with enjoying a cruise ornot enjoying a cruise? I have tons of class and I am as thrifty as they come. I love a bargain BUT this ship is not a class act and it is not a bargain. It is just bad service and bad food.
we got escorted off the ship in St. Lucia after my husband got ill, which the ship dr should of been able to handle. They are rude people,only care about keeping their schedule. we were left alone with no help from the cruise line at all. No entertainment on the ship to speak of. Food so-so. will never go on this cruise line again


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- Red Bull
Ricciardo yet to put a wheel wrong - Webber
Mark Webber has praised Daniel Ricciardo after his fellow Australian scored the first victory of his career at Sunday's Canadian Grand Prix.
Ricciardo replaced Webber at Red Bull this year and is so far beating four-time champion Sebastian Vettel on points. Webber, who is now racing for Porsche in the LMP1 category, said he had been impressed by Ricciardo's progress this year.
"To be honest, I've enjoyed the change in chapter in my career, but I've still watched a few races," Webber told NBC Sport. "I watched the start [from Canada] and it wasn't looking that exciting. A bit touch and go. But then I saw the Mercs have problems.
"For Daniel to get his first win was incredible for him. He hasn't put a wheel wrong all year so far. There's been testing regulations, wet qualifyings, and all sorts of stuff that's been thrown at him. But for him to notch up his first win is a big step for him."
Webber returns to Le Mans this weekend to take on the famous 24 hour race for Porsche.

subset: commoncrawl


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OpenSecrets News
2012 Election Spending Will Reach $6 Billion, Center for Responsive Politics Predicts
The 2012 election will not only be the most expensive election in U.S. history, the cost will tower over the next most expensive election by more than $700 million.
Earlier this year, the Center for Responsive Politics estimated that the 2012 election would cost $5.8 billion — an estimate that already made it the most expensive in history — but with less than a week to go before the election, CRP is revising the estimate upwards. According to CRP's new analysis of Federal Election Commission data, this election will likely cost $6 billion.
The most significant difference compared with earlier cycles is the unprecedented money being raised and spent by outside – and ostensibly independent – organizations, which we are predicting will spend more than $970 million.
"In the new campaign finance landscape post-Citizens United, we're seeing historic spending levels spurred by outside groups dominated by a small number of individuals and organizations making exceptional contributions," said Sheila Krumholz, executive director of the Center for Responsive Politics.
Not only is the total cost of the election record-breaking, but the rate at which spending has increased — and continues to increase — in the closing weeks of the election is as well. In particular, outside groups are spending furiously. Spending by these groups, for and against the two main presidential candidates, has grown from $19 million per week in early September to $33 million per week in early October to $70 million during the week beginning October 21.
The presidential election alone accounts for $2.6 billion, which is actually a decrease from 2008 when, all told, nearly $2.8 billion was directed at the presidential race. In 2012, presidential candidates along with major party committees are expected to spend about $2 billion. Outside organizations that report spending to the Federal Election Commission are predicted to spend more than $528 million to influence the presidential race. Spending by the party convention host committees and public funding for the conventions totaled $142 million.
Spending in congressional races is projected to increase slightly in 2012. House and Senate candidates combined will spend about $1.82 billion, up from $1.81 in 2010. House campaign spending alone will total nearly $1.1 billion, a slight increase of 3 percent more over 2010. In the Senate, spending by candidates will approach $743 million, which is down about 7 percent compared to 2010.
The increase in the House is mainly among Republican candidates and is accounted for by the big increase in Republican House members due to the 2010 wave election. Incumbents outraise their challengers, in general, and freshmen often raise more than other incumbents because their first re-election campaign is seen as their most difficult. This year is proving no different.
Congressional races are being affected by the huge increase in outside spending as well. For just the week beginning October 20, outside spending in the 59 House contests rated either toss-up or leaning to one party or the other by Real Clear Politics totaled $41 million
Together, all candidates for Congress have raised more than $1.7 billion, based on data available from the FEC as of October 30, 2012. Incumbents have a sizable advantage, the Center found, with the average incumbent senator raising $11 million over his or her six-year term, compared to $1.2 million for the average challenger, an advantage of nearly 10-to-1. Candidates in open seats raised more than $2.5 million on average. In the House, the average incumbent raised $1.5 million compared to just $245,000 for the average challenger. Candidates vying for open seats in the House raised, on average, more than $453,000. Self-funding candidates have spent more than $200 million of their own money to run for office in 2012.
Republican candidates have raised more than their Democratic counterparts in both chambers this election cycle. Republican House candidates have also raised more on average — $712,000 to $594,000, –though Democrats did better than Republicans in the Senate, on average, raising $3.8 million to Republicans' $2.6 million on average. Overall it appears Republicans will end up collecting $1.1 billion, or 55 percent of the money raised by congressional candidates in 2012. In 2010 overall, Republicans outraised their Democratic counterparts by 15%.
Despite heavy losses by incumbents in the 2010 "wave election," 2012 is likely to see reelection rates climb back to their usual high levels. Since 1992, House election rates never dipped below 94 percent until they fell to 85 percent in 2010. In the Senate, where reelection rates are more variable, incumbents have nevertheless won in at least 79 percent of their races over the past two decades. Incumbents won reelection 84 percent of the time in 2010.
The potential for huge outside amounts, sometimes realized, sometimes not, has likely helped drive all committees and outside groups involved in these elections to redouble their efforts to collect more money. Outside organizations are predicted to spend $187 million in House races and $258 million in Senate races.
Of the $970 million to be spent by outside groups, super PACs (which make only "independent expenditures" and report both their donors and spending to the Federal Election Commission) have, so far, spent $540 million and politically active nonprofits and others have spent $351 million.
What remains unknown — and may never fully be accounted for — is how much money secretive "shadow money" organizations spent, with some investing massive sums on ads, but also on unreported and purportedly "non-political" activities, as the election neared. It may take years to determine how much they spent. Furthermore, it likely will never be known who provided the vast majority of this money, which includes at least $203 million in the last two months.
"One thing we can say for certain is that the transparency the Supreme Court relied upon to justify this new framework has been sorely lacking," said Krumholz.
In addition to the spending reported by nonprofits, however, at least $100-200 million more has been spent by these groups on "issue advocacy" that identifies a federal candidate but was not required to be reported to the FEC. This is of concern because a number of these organizations — particularly those that have organized since the Citizens United ruling, are spending huge sums and have super PAC counterparts — are primarily political in nature. More disturbing than the secret spending (some of which can be pieced together based on studies of political ads and will eventually be summarized in tax reports to the Internal Revenue Service), is the secret source of this money. With no requirements to disclose where the money is coming from, voters in 2012 have been left with no real means to judge the credibility of the message or consider any hidden agendas leading those donors to give.
The largest of these groups include American Crossroads and its nonprofit "social welfare" counterpart, Crossroads GPS, organizations conceived of by GOP strategist Karl Rove which together have reported spending more than $158 million on independent expenditures and electioneering communications. Restore Our Future, the super PAC supporting Mitt Romney's presidential campaign has spent nearly as much, $125 million, on independent expenditures. Next on the list, but spending less than half as much, is Priorities USA Action, the super PAC supporting President Barack Obama. The US Chamber of Commerce, a 501(c)6 nonprofit and one of the most powerful interest groups in U.S. politics, reported spending $35 million on electoral activity but routinely spends tens of millions more on unreported "issue advocacy" that target federal candidates. The fifth top spender is another 501(c)4 "social welfare" organization, Americans for Prosperity, which has spent about $34 million on political ads, but perhaps more importantly built a massive ground operation to get out the conservative vote.
Different candidates and different political committees used a variety of tactics.
President Obama's campaign kept much of its fundraising in-house, churning to collect millions of small donations at least $214.3 million. The campaign also heavily tapped networks of wealthy and powerful supporters, known as bundlers, who combined to raise at least $180.1 million.
The Romney campaign never reached historic levels of fundraising but was aligned with powerful outside spending groups. While the campaign raised just $389 million (only a relatively small fraction, $70.8 million, raised from small donors), Romney's campaign was undoubtedly buoyed by the support of Restore Our Future, which raised $131.6 million. It has spent one out of every five super PAC dollars this cycle.
"In reaction, candidates feel pressure to raise more funds," said Bob Biersack, a senior fellow at the Center for Responsive Politics. "Everybody reacts to this new environment by getting as much money as they can."
The sources for money fueling the presidential campaign in 2012 reflect the same basic interests that fed the coffers of candidates in the 2008 presidential campaign. In 2008, among business, labor and ideological interests, the top 3 sectors providing funds to all presidential candidates were: Finance, Insurance and Real Estate, delivering $141.2 million (54 percent to Democrats); Lawyers and Lobbyists, with $100.7 million (78.2 percent to Democrats); and Miscellaneous Business interests, giving $86.6 million (63.6 percent to Democrats). Business interests account for about 62 percent of all contributions to all presidential candidates, with ideological, labor and other interests making up the rest.
In 2012, these same top sectors lead the list, with some important differences. FIRE delivered only $80.7 million to a smaller field of Republican candidates and only a single Democratic contender. More important, though, was how that money was distributed. This time, 76 percent of that went to all Republican candidates and 65 percent went to Romney alone. To date, Romney holds an advantage over Obama among financial interests by a margin of 5-to-2. Instead of Lawyers and Lobbyists, Miscellaneous Business is second contributing $52.2 million (60.2 percent to Republicans); and Lawyers and Lobbyists place third with $42.4 million (61.7 percent to Democrats).
Once again, within the financial sector, the primary powerhouse is Wall Street, which delivered $28 million to date this cycle. But, after heartily backing Obama four years ago, securities and investment firms pivoted sharply and threw their financial support behind Romney in 2012, sending him the lion's share — $19.6 million — more than 3 times the amount contributed to Obama.
Lawyers and Law Firms supplied similar support in 2012, sending $40.2 million total to presidential candidates, but unlike Wall Street, Lawyers stuck with their favored candidate of 2008, sending Obama $25.7 million through October 17. While far less than the $46.5 million lavished on the Obama campaign in 2008, Obama's 2012 haul from lawyers is still more than twice as much as Romney has so far received. The only other industry or interest group to deliver $20 million or more to the Obama campaign is Education. Education-related interests provided Obama with $20.1 million out of $24.3 million to all presidential candidates this cycle.
As in past cycles, when including all itemized donations, (beyond Business, Labor and Ideological interests), topping the Center's 2012 list of big donors to all presidential candidates are contributors who list their occupation as "retired," giving $121.3 million, divided nearly evenly between Obama and Romney: $54.5 million to Obama and $56.4 to Romney, with the rest distributed among other presidential candidates.
These major categories of top campaign support are reflected in the list of top organizations supporting the Obama and Romney campaigns. Employees of the University of California have contributed more than $1 million to the Obama campaign and 5 other universities are also among his top 20 organizational donors, along with 4 leading tech companies and government employees. Most of Romney's top donors, on the other hand, are financial interests (16 of 20), the top 5 of which are all heavy hitters on Wall Street.
One important difference in fundraising for the two presidential campaigns has been the emphasis on small donors by the Obama campaign. Every presidential campaign focuses on maximum contributions from individuals, now commonly raised through joint-fundraising organizations receiving up to $75,800 from each individual, often delivered by bundlers seeking to demonstrate the extent of their support for a particular candidate. Less common is the ability of the Obama campaign to raise about 30% of his contributions in amounts less than $200 per person – more than $214 million through October 17 and three times the amount raised by Romney in similar amounts.
While small donors have played a role in this campaign, it remains extraordinarily unusual for Americans to contribute to political candidates, and the rise of unlimited contributions for outside spending has further concentrated financial participation in politics this year. For example, fewer than 40 donors to outside groups have given more than $200 million to those groups – while at least 350,000 people were needed to reach the $71 million in small donations to the Romney campaign. It's also important to note that President Obama raised nearly twice as much money from donors giving more than $200 as he did from those giving $200 or less and Gov. Romney raised nearly 4.5 times as much from large individual donors than he did from small donors.
Women donors have also played an increasingly important role in presidential campaigns in recent cycles, and this cycle is no different. Continuing a rising trend over recent years, women donors have given 36% of the overall itemized individual money to the major party nominees, with the Obama campaign approaching gender parity, raising 44.2 percent of its itemized contributions from women, whereas Romney raised 28.5 percent from women giving more than $200.
Our estimates are based on comparisons between activity through September 30 and total cycle activity for past campaigns. These multipliers from the 2008 Presidential cycle have been employed to estimate this cycle's totals based on activity through September 2012.
Celebrating its 30th year in 2013, the Center for Responsive Politics is the nation's premier research group tracking money in U.S. politics and its effect on elections and public policy. The nonpartisan, nonprofit Center aims to create a more educated voter, an involved citizenry and a more responsive government. CRP's award-winning website, OpenSecrets.org, is the most comprehensive resource for campaign contributions, lobbying data and analysis available anywhere. For other organizations and news media, CRP's exclusive data powers their online features tracking money in politics. CRP relies on support from a combination of foundation grants and individual contributions. The Center accepts no contributions from businesses, labor unions or trade associations.
For more info call 202-354-0111 or email [email protected]


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Do any of the Vegas books take action on soccer? If so, which ones and what leagues?
Have not seen games from anywhere other than England...not counting World Cup. Also have not seen the lesser teams in England. Some books only book 90 minutes + injury time and offer a "draw" as a bet; some books offer a spread bet.


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Seal to Perform on ABC's DANCING WITH THE STARS, 4/3
This week's episode of DANCING WITH THE STARS themed "The Most Memorable Year of My Life," challenges the remaining eleven couples to perform a meaningful dance using any style dance of their choice, MONDAY, APRIL 2 (8:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.
On Tuesday, acclaimed singer and songwriter Seal returns to the ballroom performing "Lean On Me" from his latest album "Soul 2." His soulful performance will be accompanied by four members of the Troupe. Also hitting the stage is best-selling country vocal group, Rascal Flatts, with a network TV debut performance of "Changed," the title of their new album due out April 3rd. Their performance is accompanied by pro dancer Tony Dovolani and Troupe member Sharna Burgess on TUESDAY, APRIL 3 (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.
Also during Tuesday's show we have the season's first "Macy's Stars of Dance," with an all- star dance number featuring some of Hollywood's most prominent and talented male dancers from film and TV, including Kenny Wormald ("Footloose"), Twitch ("Step Up 3D" and "Step Up 4"), Travis Wall and many others. The exciting performance will be accompanied by one of the worlds most sought after horn trios, Grooveline Horns, who will be performing their composition "Copchase." This spectacular performance is choreographed by Misha Gabriel and Nick Bass who've shared the stage and screen with artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, Britney Spears, Beyonce and many more. Tuesday's show also welcomes the season's first "AT&T Spotlight Performance" which will feature Julia Ivleva's inspirational story. Julia is a world-class professional ballroom dancer who has recently been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. Her good friends Jonathan Roberts and Anna Trebunskaya will be dancing a powerfully emotional number in a special tribute to Julia and the fight against cancer.
Over the course of a remarkable career that spans more than two decades, Seal has won four Grammy® Awards and sold more than 20 million albums worldwide, enjoying success across numerous genres of music. His emotional, romantic love songs, such as "Prayer For the Dying," the Grammy ® Award winning "Kiss From A Rose," "Don't Cry" and "Love's Divine," delighted fans and earned him critical acclaim. He has also seen great success in the dance/pop music world, beginning with his roots in Britain's house music/rave scene with his debut album in 1991 and returning to those roots with 2007's dancefloor-friendly "System." Most recently Seal released a second set of soul classics, "Soul II" which recaptures the magic of his 2008 international hit album, "Soul." "Soul II" is his eighth studio album produced by Trevor Horn and David Foster on Warner Bros. Records.
Country vocal group, Rascal Flatts, will release their eighth studio album "Changed" Tuesday, April 3rd on Big Machine Records. This album comes after Flatts' first Big Machine Records album release, "Nothing Like This," which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart. Their album "Nothing Like This," featured two #1 hits including "Why Wait" and "I Won't Let Go." Since their musical debut in 2000, the band has sold over 21 million albums, 25 million digital downloads and delivered 13 #1 singles to the top of the charts. Rascal Flatts is the most awarded Country group of the past decade earning over 40 awards. As one of the hottest-selling acts on tour in any genre, they've sold over 6 million concert tickets and counting. On June 15th they will kick off a new summer tour, "The American Band Tour" with Little Big Town, Eli Young Band, and Edens Edge.
Grooveline Horns, comprised of Sosa, Fernando Castillo on trumpet and Reggie Watkins on trombone, are not only a permanent part of Jason Mraz's band, but have also performed and/or recorded with artists like Willie Nelson, Kelly Clarkson, Dave Matthews, Blues Traveler and many more. Grooveline Horns had their genesis more than 15 years ago in Austin, Texas, where they honed their chops bouncing back and forth from club to club every night on the town's famed 6th street. In 2006, after Grooveline Horns had been working for almost 10 years towards their goal of becoming an in-demand horn section, Jason Mraz invited the group to join him on his tour - they have been an integral part of his band ever since. Currently, the group is working on completing their debut album in their Austin recording studio.
By Tuesday evening's end, one couple will be eliminated, as determined by a combination of the judges' scores and viewers' votes on dances performed on Monday's performance show. Who among the eleven couples will be the next to leave the ballroom?
* Gavin DeGraw and partner Karina Smirnoff
* Donald Driver and partner Peta Murgatroyd
* Roshon Fegan and partner Chelsie Hightower
* Melissa Gilbert and partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy
* Katherine Jenkins and partner Mark Ballas
* Gladys Knight and partner Tristan MacManus
* WILLIAM LEVY and partner Cheryl Burke
* Maria Menounos and partner Derek Hough
* Sherri Shepherd and partner Val Chmerkovskiy
* Jack Wagner and partner Anna Trebunskaya
* Jaleel White and partner Kym Johnson
Hosted by Tom Bergeron ("America's Funniest Home Videos") and Brooke Burke-Charvet ("Dancing with the Stars" Season Seven Champion), the celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which will be judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.
Viewers may cast their votes for their favorite teams via phone on Monday night during and up to 60 minutes after the "Dancing with the Stars" performance shows. AT&T customers may also vote by texting the word "VOTE" and entering the number that corresponds to the team they want to support (message and data rates may apply).


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Vague Vectors
This article originally appeared in IFR Refresher, March 2008.Pilots and controllers rely on each other to communicate unambiguously, especially when working together to complete an instrument approach. The rules of the game are supposed to be clear, yet somehow pilots and controllers continue to clash when an aircraft is in position to join the final approach course straight-in without flying a published procedure-turn holding pattern. Are you being vectored or should you fly the hold entry? There has apparently been so much confusion in this area that AOPA Air Safety Foundation created an online safety course devoted to unlocking the mystery. The course, "IFR Chart Challenge: VOR Approach," describes an incident that occurred on the VOR approach to Runway 34 at the Carroll County Regional Airport in Westminster, Md., (DMW). The aircraft, a Cessna 182, was located southwest of the airport approaching the Westminster VOR (EMI) and had been cleared for the approach. The Potomac Approach controller issued the following instruction: "Cessna 611MS, 10 miles from Westminster. Proceed direct Westminster, maintain 3000 until established. Cleared VOR Runway 34 approach Westminster." At the time, the aircraft was located on the 190-degree radial, 10 miles southwest of EMI, heading 010 degrees at 3000 feet. What would you have expected to do if you were in the left seat? (A) Perform the published course reversal; or (B) join the final approach course and continue straight in? If you chose answer (A), you are correct. The Skylane pilot did too, based on how he interpreted the ATC instructions. He chose to fly direct to EMI and executed the full approach with a direct entry to the holding pattern to get established on the final approach course. After making the course reversal turn and established on final outside the FAF, he expected to descend to the published 2900 feet. This, however, is not what the controller expected. After the Skylane pilot made the turn to the outbound course, he got an earful and later alleged that the controller said, "I did not clear you for the procedure turn." This is a situation when the controller expected a certain reaction, but the pilot had other plans. AIM 5-4-9 says that the holding pattern or procedure turn must be followed except when radar vectoring is provided or "NoPT" is depicted in the procedure. The Pilot/Controller Glossary defines "radar vectoring" as the "provision of navigational guidance to aircraft in the form of specific headings, based on the use of radar." The C182 was instructed to proceed direct to the VOR, not to fly a heading to join the final course. A full investigation was launched with the Potomac TRACON after the pilot objected to the fact that the radar controller was upset with the pilot for making the procedure turn. The investigation proved the pilot correct, especially because he wasn't cleared to descend from his last assigned altitude of 3000 feet to the FAF altitude of 2900 feet. In addition, he hadn't heard "cleared straight-in" at any time from ATC. ATC might clear a pilot for an approach when the pilot expects she will be getting vectors to final. A pilot might also believe she's cleared for a straight-in, especially if she's nearly aligned with the final course and at or near the FAF altitude. Another source of confusion can occur when the controller instructs a pilot to intercept the final approach course outside the FAF and then makes the approach clearance and descent conditional on that intercept. In this situation, no course reversal is expected. This was common in some locations before radar was installed, when a remote facility was directing the aircraft but did not have the capability to monitor the approach at the lower FAF altitude. It is obviously best to be sure both pilot and ATC are on the same page when conducting any instrument approach. How can a pilot know what is the correct procedure? If ATC tells you, "This will be vectors for the [specified] approach," or "This will be vectors to final," or "Intercept the final approach course and fly it inbound," then you're cleared straight in. However, if all you hear is, "Cleared for the approach," fly the full approach as published. If there's any doubt, query ATC to clear it up. The last thing any pilot wants in the cockpit is confusion when you are focused on making a successful instrument approach, especially if it may have to be flown to minimums. The exchange between pilot and controller has to be clear and concise. There's no room for not knowing the other guy's intentions.
More AVweb articles about flying in the IFR system are available here. And for monthly articles about IFR flying, subscribe to AVweb's sister publication, IFR Refresher.


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It's that time of year again, the 2013 CVS Caremark Charity Classic Golf Tournament is coming up and Serve Rhode Island needs help running the Water & Ice Committee. The tournament will be held from Sunday, June 23 to Tuesday, June 25, at the Rhode Island Country Club in Barrington.
For a fee of $60, volunteers receive a complete volunteer package (valued at over $145) that includes: One badge that allows grounds admission all days of the tournament (may be used during days or shifts that you are not working); one 3-day public parking pass; admission into the Volunteer Appreciation Party; two shirts with tournament logo; one hat or visor with tournament logo; and coupons redeemable for food and beverage.
There are a total of four shifts during the event. Volunteers are required to work a minimum of two shifts.
It is not necessary for you to play golf to be a volunteer. Knowledge of the game helps in some positions.
Those interested should contact Amanda Ball at: email@example.com or 331-2298 x104 for questions or further information.


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EDIT: Since the value of the Diamondback Podium 6 we talked about below was recognized by so many of you out there, we don't have any more in stock online. But that doesn't mean that you have to miss out on the great 880 gram frame of the Podium 6, as we still have the Diamondback Podium 5 road bike in stock and ready to ship. Featuring the Podium carbon frame but with Shimano 105 components, the Podium 5 road bike is another great value from the folks at Diamondback!
For today's product profile, we're bringing you a new ride from an unexpected source. Our friends at Diamondback have been busy lately, not only refining their lineup of mountain bikes and BMX bikes, but also developing a brand new line of full carbon road bikes. That's right, we said full carbon road bikes! Of course we were intrigued, so our bike product manager, Devlin, took the cross-country flight out to Washington to meet the folks at Diamondback and try out their new bike, the 2011 Podium 6 road bike, on its home turf:
Mercer Island, located on the expansive waters of Lake Washington and only minutes from the greater Seattle area, is host to fast, rolling road rides with steep banked turns and exhilarating descents. When I heard that the crew at Diamondback were going to unveil their 2011 Podium 6 road bike here I was skeptical. After all, a brand steeped in BMX and mountain bike heritage was suddenly going to break in to road biking right at the top with a Shimano Ultegra equipped full carbon frame and fork.
At first glance, the Podium 6 is right on target. The 880 gram frame has all of the characteristics of today's best carbon road bikes: an oversized tapered head tube fitted with a full carbon fork, massive BB30 bottom bracket for superior stiffness, curved seat and chain stays for added comfort, and an arrestingly minimal top tube. Diamondback product manager Michael Brown appropriately chose an eye-catching FSA SL-K component package and Shimano R530 wheels.
We rolled out of the parking lot at warm up speed. I noticed immediately how stable and comfortable the bike felt. It took little effort to turn over the carbon SLK cranks and the surprisingly spritely wheels accelerated well as the pace picked up. The first hill proved the Podium 6 to be a great climber. The frame was stiff, yet refreshingly compliant. The bike cornered confidently and efficiently on the following descent. The Shimano Ultegra components are well proven to be both lightweight and precise and were well matched to the Podium 6. Overall, the 2011 Diamondback Podium 6 is a fantastic choice for any rider looking for the elusive balance between great all-around road performance at a great price. We look forward to introducing this terrific value to our stores and web site this March.


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Looking Ahead: Cowboys Opponents for 2008
Several weeks ago, the NFL released the opponents the Cowboys will be playing in 2008. Although we have been told which teams we will play at home and which are road games, the NFL has not yet released the date that each game will take place. I am sure that when the dates of the games are released, Kelly, here at StarStruck, will be busy designing schedules for us all to post on our sites.
Naturally, we will face each opponent in the NFC East twice during the regular season. This means that we will have to face the Giants, Redskins, and Eagles once on the road and once at home for a total of 6 games of the 16 game season. Although we won our division handily this year, we cannot take any of these games for granted. I have said it before and I will continue to say it: Year in and year out, the NFC East is one of the toughest if not the toughest division in the NFL. Although I believe we are better overall than each of these teams, any one of them is capable of beating the Cowboys on any given day. I think we are the stronger team out of these opponents and will win the division again next year, but I will not be surprised at one or even two losses within the division. I can already feel some of you steaming at that last remark. Please understand, I am not being pessimistic, just realistic.
One side note: Considering that the Giants knocked us out of the playoffs this year, I would be very willing to bet that one Monday night game will involve us playing the Giants either at home or on the road. There's too much drama there. The NFL almost has to put one of those games in prime time.
The remaining ten games in the regular season are made up of non-division opponents.
They are:
Road Games
Arizona Cardinals, St. Louis Rams, Green Bay Packers, Cleveland Browns, and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Home Games
San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Baltimore Ravens, and the Cincinnati Bengals.
Of these teams, only four had losing records last year: the 49ers, Ravens, Bengals, and Rams. The rest were .500 or better. Six of our opponents made the playoffs. These were: the Giants, Redskins, Seahawks, Buccaneers, Packers, and Steelers. Since we play the Redskins and the Giants twice, that means that 8 of our 16 opponents for 2008 were playoff teams in 2007.
I have read some comments from other fans that we have an easy schedule and we should go undefeated in 2008. Again, I don't want to sound pessimistic, but this is the NFL and since we were the number one seed in the NFC this last year, the powers that be in the league have no intention of making it easy on us. Although most of these teams didn't come close to matching our 13-3 record last year, this will still be a tough schedule. Remember, we almost lost to Buffalo early this last season (and to be honest, we probably should have the way we played) but we pulled it out in the end. Just like I said about the NFC East, any team in the NFL has talent and can put together at least one great day of football (I think the Patriots would agree with that anyway).
As for an undefeated season, I would enjoy that just a much as any Cowboy fan. However, history makes me face the realistic probability that this won't happen. Seldom does a team have that opportunity. It takes talent on your team, but due to the level of opposition in the NFL, a little luck is also usually needed. Personally, I would rather see us take a loss or two in the regular season and then go into the playoffs fighting mad. Lose early, get it out of our system and enter the playoffs knowing that we are a good team but not overconfident about it (Once again, I think the Patriots might agree with me here).
So, here's what I think and some of you may write nasty things to me about it – but it's ok, I can take it. We will win the NFC East. We will be the frontrunner for the Superbowl title and I think we WILL take it. Undefeated? No. I honestly believe our record will be no better than 14-2 and could even be 12-4. Again, I am not being negative, just realistic based on that schedule. We will lose at least one or two games in the NFC East and maybe one or two among our remaining opponents. I hope I am wrong. 19-0 would be wonderful. If I'm wrong I will gladly let my wife spank me and call me names (Hmmmm…..Now that I think about it……never mind. Now where was I??? Oh yeah….). The bottom line is that a tough schedule with some losses will prepare us to rise to the occasion when the playoffs arrive. Just like diamonds are made under extreme pressure, it may very well be the pressure of losses that cause our Stars to shine. Shine on Cowboys. Run for the Ring baby!!!


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Taking the Chorus out for a spin
Ahead of the orchestra's performances of Handel's Messiah in Candlelight this weekend, we invited members of the Houston Symphony Chorus (who, by the way, just celebrated their 1000th performance!), to write about their experience preparing for such a huge piece. Our first entry comes from Susan Scarrow, the manager of the Houston Symphony Chorus. In her "day job" she is a Professor of Political Science at the University of Houston.
Tuesday evening is the piano rehearsal for this year's Messiah performance and I am really looking forward to it. Piano rehearsals are my favorite part of the whole rehearsal process. The term "piano rehearsal" is a bit misleading, because of course all of our regular rehearsals have piano accompaniment – in our case, this is generally provided by the amazingly talented Scott Holshouser, the Houston Symphony's principal keyboard. Scott's artistry is a crucial part of our preparations for any piece. He doesn't just play the notes, though he does that extremely well. More importantly, and much more rarely, Scott somehow "orchestrates" his playing so that we become familiar with the instrumentation long before we start rehearsing with the Symphony. But I digress.
A piano rehearsal is the final Chorus rehearsal before the chorus and orchestra rehearse together, and it is the first chance for the week's conductor to run through the piece with the Chorus. For concerts with visiting conductors (Matthew Halls is conducting this week's Messiah performance), the whole evening is a lot like a mutual test drive of a new car. The conductor will take the Chorus out for a spin, seeing how fast we can sing the many tricky melismas, hearing how softly we can sign those pianissimos, maybe sprinkling in a few new vocal ornaments to see how they sound. At the same time, we singers will get to know the maestro's conducting patterns, figuring out how he is going to start pieces, learning his tempos. In a piano rehearsal for Messiah, a piece we all know well, we also usually learn something about a conductor's performance practice approach, and even about his or her theology.
For instance, what IS the most important word in the phrase "For unto us a child is born?" Is it "us", "child", or "born"? And are the pick-up notes in "Behold the Lamb of God" sixteenth notes or eighth notes? If you listen closely to our performances, you will hear that each year's conductor has a different set of answers to these and other seemingly minor questions, and their answers are often grounded in strong and thoughtful convictions. At the piano rehearsals, conductors will take the time to explain some of the convictions behind the musical details they are asking for, sometimes giving these rehearsals an element of being master-classes with world-class musicians. The mutual insights we gain at Tuesday's rehearsal will guide us through the week, forming the basis for the understanding and trust that is an essential part of the wordless communication that you witness in any good performance.
Susan Scarrow, Soprano II
One Response
What a joy to read Susan Scarrow's remarks about the Chorus's preparation for Handels's Messiah. She's absolutely right about it being a new musical experience each year. I miss those wonderful years that I sang with the Houston Symphony Chorus. They were experiences I will never forget. Best wishes to Charles Hausman, Scott Holshouser, Susan Scarrow, and all my dear friends in the HSC.


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A few days ago I received a comment on a posting I wrote on St. Paddy's Day, it was from another blogger. For some reason, I was fascinated by her comments. I searched a little, found her site, read some of her work, sent her a note and soon we were emailing back and forth.
This is yet another blog where the author shares personal paranormal experiences, including UFO sightings and their heavy-handed implications. (Someday, I need to make a list of these blogs) I am still at a loss at how to label these experiences. Is she an abductee? Contactee? Experiencer?
The title of her ongoing blog is: IN A WORLD CRACKING OPEN - Endings & Beginnings.
She goes by the pen name Lucretia Heart, and her story is rich, complicated and utterly bizarre. Having been looking at this subject, long and hard, I gotta say most of the stuff in her story seems to match things I've heard, either in print or from people sharing these stories with me directly.
I was utterly drawn to this posting. Here's how the story begins:
Late September 2006, at about 2 am, a strange, blond man, tall, broad shouldered, and handsome, walked right into our living room in the middle of the night. We were up and alert at the time because someone had awakened us out of a dead sleep by rapping loudly on our bedroom window. A few minutes later, while my husband, Gerick, and I were shakily trying to figure out what was going on, Big Blond Guy just opened up our front door and strode on in!
I knew him and his name was Ethan...
Bizarre things had been occurring ever since we moved into that cabin out in the Ohio woods: Grey alien visitations, poltergeist phenomena, and several close-up UFO sightings. It had been an interesting year, to say the least! But this walk-in by a tall blond dude was altogether a bigger deal, and I knew it.
Many years before, Gerick and I and several other abductees we knew of were apparently put on some sort of 'stand-by' status. We were all told the same thing: that we were prepared and ready now, so we'd mostly be left alone (except for brief check-ups) until "it was time."
Time for what? For something to start. Something big. Something that had to do with the whole world changing. . .
NOTE: This story has been featured in JAR Quarterly
(Journal of Abduction-Encounter Research)
Mike replies...
I'll add that 2006 seems to be the year that I began to become more preoccupied with the subject. My interest had been simply the stuff of curiosity, a subject that I followed. But, from this point on (about 2006) it turned into an obsession, and heavy-handed synchronicities began to invade my life.
Here are two more postings from my sister blogger. To me, these follow up stories are an important addition to the Ethan story.
Lucretia writes, The Hippie Visitor:
(she shares this) The following I wrote before meeting a guy named "Ethan" in a 2006 experience. I don't think they're the same guy-- but I could be wrong. I'm still confused about this one...
Mike replies...
Anyone who has read SIGHT UNSEEN by Budd Hopkins will immediately be reminded of the mysterious Mr. Page. The stories are eerie in their similarities.
Lucretia writes, A Letter To "Ethan"
I'm not sure what I'm trying to do here, exactly. I suppose I'm trying to imagine that if there were a way to communicate to "Ethan" (or whatever that mysterious yet familiar guy's name was who visited us in late September of 2006) I would dearly like to do so and would. I guess this is an exercise of my wishful imagination. But IF I could write to him, and have him read my writing, this is what I would like to say to that Angel/Alien/Faerie who came that night...
Mike concludes...
I could have made this post a LOT longer. My communications with Lucretia has been a tightly woven web of links to other ongoing synchronicities, including: The Irish, women with long red hair, the number 33, tall Nordic beings, Budd Hopkins and a deep premonition about our future.


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London Calling: An Unlocked Update
London Unlocked Update
Last week we wrapped the second stop of Unlocked: The Hybrid Cloud in beautiful London, and I want to give you quick recap on the event. In our best turnout so far, we had over 100 developers, engineers and business executives join us who were eager to learn about all things cloud. The London event was a little different than the first in NYC. Based on feedback from NYC attendees, we split the London Unlocked event into dual tracks: business and technical. We wanted to test the waters and see if there was an appetite for more focused tracks, so we decided to offer it up and see what the feedback was like. It was a super successful event in all regards - minus the fire alarm that caused us to evacuate for approximately 30 minutes. I'm absolutely looking forward to returning to London for the next Unlocked event (date TBD). <!-- more -->
If you couldn't make it or were not in attendance, we have made all our slides publically available on blog.unlocked.io. Here, you'll find the general sessions slides, included the keynote delivered by Nigel Beighton, vice president of technology and product for Rackspace UK; the Business Track presented by Rackspace Open Cloud Architect Leo Packham and Rackspace Cloud Evangelist and DevOps Engineer Jason Smith; and the Technical Track presented Rackspace University Technical Trainer Alex Brandt and myself.
For a quick video recap of the day, check out the video below!
What's next? Unlocked in PDX!
The Rackspace Unlocked team is now en route to Portland for OSCON for an event this Tuesday. Our session, "Butter Up Your Application," will cover the Five Pillars of Cloudiness and how they apply to your cloud application design. We also plan to share an open source project we wrote using the principles will cover in this tutorial. This will be a developer-focused session with lots of combing through code and discussing the ups and downs we faced when designing this application: code irregularities, race conditions, continuous integration and continuous delivery, performance tradeoffs and infrastructure automation. We want to help you plan for success the next time you sit down to design a cloud application. As an added bonus, we'll also open-source Margarine to the world. Margarine can be used as a template to deploy your next cloud application on any cloud provider of your choice! If you'd like more information, the full abstract can be found here Join us at OSCON for "Butter Up Your Application" Tuesday, July 23 at 9:00 a.m. in room E142 at the Oregon Convention Center.
Unlocked is coming to Austin
After the Rackspace Unlocked team returns from OSCON, we'll gear up for the next installment of Unlocked: The Hybrid Cloud. This time we're heading to Austin. This event will take place at the W Hotel Austin and will be another run of our Business and Technical tracks. If you have not registered yet, there is still time! Go over to unlocked.io and secure your spot today! We have some special guest from the ATX start-up community coming to present, and we have a few other tricks up our sleeves that we can't wait to share with the vibrant tech ecosystem in one of the world's hotbeds of entrepreneurial and engineering talent.
For more information or inquiries
If you have any questions, comments or feedback for the Unlocked team, please reach out to any of us - we'd love to talk to you. If you have ideas on content you'd like to see more of or less of, or want to suggest a totally new topic, we'd love to hear from you! The Unlocked team can be reached on Twitter at the following locations:
- Jennifer Boles, Unlocked Global Program Manager - @jennbolestweets
- Wayne Walls, Unlocked Global Program Evangelist - @waynewalls
- Hart Hoover, Unlocked Technical Evangelist - @hhoover
- Alex Brandt, Unlocked Technical Evangelist - @alunduil
- Leo Packham, Unlocked Business Strategist - @LeoPackam
- Jason Smith, Unlocked Content Strategist - @aslean
We all look forward to seeing you at an upcoming unlocked: The Hybrid Cloud Event!


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The Dish
All the News That's Fit to Eat
Yet Another Excuse to Eat Chocolate--There's a new haven for chocolate lovers in the Northeast Heights with your mama's name written all over it. Not literally, of course, but your mother will probably love this place. Kocoa Tree is a chocolate boutique from the gals who own Glazed Hams and More (5850 Eubank NE), sisters-in-law Dianne Kennedy and Connie Kennedy-Windiate. The shop is conveniently located right down the street, in the old To Die for Fudge space in the shopping center at Eubank and Osuna (right next to the Barley Room). I walked in this weekend just as Dianne and Connie were stocking the shelves with gourmet chocolates, which they say will include house-made fudges and big, imported Belgian truffles. (They showed me a box--they're the size of golf balls.) There's also a quaint coffee bar area, and lots of gift basket filler like Gund stuffed animals and jewelry. Like I said, this place was made for moms. They should be open by now, but call them at 796-0102 to get the proper store hours.
Restaurant Review
Kim's Vietnamese Gourmet Cuisine
The sweet, the savory and the lunch du jour
Vinegar and I have a long, and occasionally sordid, history. I can remember my first vinaigrette dressing on a salad, and the very first time I ever sprinkled red wine on sautéed spinach—I was hooked for life. Then there was the time that cider vinegar was used as a weapon pointed straight at my 10-year-old potty mouth. My fifth grade teacher, Sister Mary Ruler-Smack (not her real name—I don't want to get smacked again), was affronting my dignity yet again by requiring me to participate in group sing-a-long, at which point I decided to inform her that she "looked like my butt." I was marched by my ear to the cafeteria area, where I was shoved into a folding chair to await my fate—it was either hold a bar of soap in my mouth for one minute, or drink a cup of cider vinegar. My choice seemed easy, but I was in for a nasty surprise.
Cool Stuff
Chocolate Block
Soviet precision sparks a milk chocolate revolution
The United States is succumbing to the dark side ... of chocolate. Just take a trip through the checkout lane for a frontline lesson in propaganda. There's no shortage of models pretending to gnaw on black, glossy squares, and headlines gush that it's OK to eat chocolate again--as long as its dark. The confectioners are listening, too. No longer content with dark chocolate's standard makeup of 50 to 70 percent cocoa solids, American chocolate manufactures have become downright sadistic in tweaking their cocoa content, as much as 87 percent or higher in some bars. It's enough to make the most devoted sweet tooths begin to feel bitter.


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Gray Takes Second Leg of Doubleheader
Gray Wins Sunday Legends Race
Tom Gray traded the lead with Dean Dezak late in the race and got in front when it counted to pick up his fourth career NHMS win. Dezak finished second, and Ryan Hammar earned his first NHMS podium with a third-place finish.
Shaun Buffington won Saturday's Moat Mountain Road Course Legends Series and jumped out to an early lead on Sunday as well. After an extended caution, Buffington got back in front, but his car soon had electrical problems and Gray took over the lead. Dezak got around Gray late and briefly held the lead, but he gave it up in the closing laps and the No. 18t of Gray took the checkered flag.
The win meant a weekend sweep for the teammates (Gray and Buffington) of TSMotorsports. Meanwhile, Dezak took the bride's maid position of second in both races, and each third spot was claimed by a first-time NHMS podium winner: Hammar on Sunday and Mike Alton on Saturday.
Unofficial Results
1. Tom Gray
2. Dean Dezak
3. Ryan Hammar
4. Bob Weymouth
5. T.J. Laro
6. Alex Vorillas
7. Taylor Martin
8. Steve Miller
9. Stephen Johnson
10. Dan Winter
11. Patrick Dillon
12. Jordan Lamothe
13. Terry Johnson
14. Luke Hiebert
15. Shaun Buffington
16. Evan Beaulieu
17. Mike Alton
18. T.J. Bleau


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