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A project of People For the American Way dedicated to monitoring and exposing the activities of the right-wing movement. Learn More >
George Tiller and the DHS Report
It was just a few weeks ago that the Religious Right was up-in-arms over the report released by the Department of Homeland Security called "Rightwing Extremism: Current Economic and Political Climate Fueling Resurgence in Radicalization and Recruitment" [PDF] because it contained this footnote:
Rightwing extremism in the United States can be broadly divided into those groups, movements, and adherents that are primarily hate-oriented (based on hatred of particular religious, racial or ethnic groups), and those that are mainly antigovernment, rejecting federal authority in favor of state or local authority, or rejecting government authority entirely. It may include groups and individuals that are dedicated to a single issue, such as opposition to abortion or immigration.
Because of this passage, Religious Right leaders immediately began decrying the report as not only "offensive to millions of Americans who hold constitutionally-protected views opposing abortion" but also an outright attack on Jesus Christ:
[Janice Crouse of Concerned Women for America] tells OneNewsNow the report is a direct attack on the church. "[It's] a direct assault on the basic principles of religious beliefs that have been here since the time of Christ," she argues. "These are the things that Christ died on the cross for."
Within days, groups like the American Center for Law and Justice and the Family Research Council were using the report in their fund-raising efforts:
Today, federal employees whose salaries we pay are issuing reports from the Department of Homeland Security that say some conservatives are a grave threat to America. Why? Because we oppose abortion and the massive growth of the federal government. Do they no longer see Al Qaeda or the Taliban as the greatest threat to Americans' liberty? Apparently they are now targeting us. I remind DHS and all who read this that we oppose all violence or lawbreaking. But speaking out is an American right we will not give up!
Will you help Family Research Council (FRC) fight excessive government and defend your rights with a donation today?
Soon calls began to emerge for an investigation into the drafting of the report, and that was quickly followed by the launching of an ad campaign supported by various right-wing groups demanding DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano's resignation:
Among the groups sponsoring the ad were Operation Rescue, the American Family Association, Faith2Action, Vision America, Americans for Truth, Liberty Counsel, Traditional Values Coalition, and others.
All of the caterwalling eventually lead DHS to pull the report ... but in light of the details emerging about Scott Roeder, the man arrested in the killing of physician George Tiller, it seems as if the report - far from being an offensive attack on Christians and anti-choice activists - was remarkably timely and accurate.
The real irony here is that the report itself focused almost entirely on violent anti-government extremists and militia groups, never mentioning anti-choice activists outside of this one isolated footnote.
But it was that footnote that the Right seized upon, repeatedly and intentionally misrepresenting what is said in order to generate controversy over the report, culminating in this sort of fear mongering from the ACLJ ... which is now blowing up in their face:
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has labeled you, a member of the pro-life community, THE MOST DANGEROUS DOMESTIC TERRORIST.
Filed Under
Organizations:OneNewsNow , Operation Rescue, Religious Right, Concerned Women for America, Family Research Council
People:Janice Crouse , George Tiller, Scott Roeder
Topics:Abortion, Religious Right, Video, Women, Anti-Choice, fear mongering, Immigration, violence, hate, radicalization, choice
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Au coeur du quartier historique du centre-ville de Charleston, la Chambre Jasmine est situé à seulement quelques pâtés de maisons de shorts marché de la ville, le centre des visiteurs et attractions de la région. Entouré de 4 étoiles restaurants, boutiques et magasins, vous pourrez profiter du meilleur de Charleston a à offrir. Vous verrez que cette maison d'hôtes est un point de départ idéal pour explorer les rues et les avenues historiques de Charleston.
4,2 sur mars 17, 2015
This is in a beautiful location in Charleston. Walking distance to all historical sites. Room was wonderful and very accommodating. Beautiful garden and sitting area in garden. My wife and I have been to many B&B in the USA and overseas. This is the first one we have encountered that did not have a sit down breakfast, or a place to sit and eat. Summer time would be nice to eat outside, but it was raining and cool. Taking food back to room or standing is not my idea of breakfast. Also, did not see staff at all like other B&B. More like staying at a motel. Other than this a great place.
4,8 sur février 19, 2014
My boyfriend and I went to the Charleston for 5 nights. We stayed at the Jasmine Inn for the majority of the time and it was our favorite in Charleston! The Inn was beautiful and the room was absolutely lovely. We were both so sad to leave. Also, the location for the Inn is great! You can walk to basically everything you want from the Inn. I would highly recommend this Bed and Breakfast and we definitely plan on staying there again!
4,6 sur juillet 27, 2013
My husband and I spent our first wedding anniversary at The Jasmine House Inn. It was wonderful, our room was gorgeous (the Commodore Room), very clean as was the bathroom. Both rooms were very spacious and luxuriously decorated. Breakfast was very good, buffet style in the entry hall. Choices included boiled eggs, egg strada, fresh cut fruit, yogurt, cereal, delicious baked goods, coffee and juice. There is a beautiful private courtyard in back and tables and chairs on the front porch to enjoy breakfast. They also offer a very nice free happy hour at 5 pm every day. This includes wine, cheese, crackers, grapes and a different dip each day. The location is perfect; we walked everywhere, the market is two blocks away, Meeting St. and King St. where all of the great shopping is are close by. There are a lot of amazing restaurants very near as well as many attractions. Parking is available right across the street at the sister Indigo Inn. I very highly reccomend The Jasmine House Inn , loved it!
5 sur mars 29, 2011
We had Wonderful stay at the jasmine inn. The room was very comfortable. The courtyard was great and the food was good.
2,2 sur mars 11, 2011
I am a disabled military verteran and have a handicap parking permit so when arriving at the Inn we parked in handicap parking. Upon walking into the Inn Mr. Nazareth greeted us with "your parked in handicap area you will have to move your vehicle" after explaining that I have a handicap tag he stated "it better be correct or you will be towed" from that point on our relationshiip went down hill! For instance that evening I went on the internet and found a website for private carriage rides at a discount rate of $90 for one hour. The next day I asked Mr. Nazareth if he could arrange a private carriage ride for us and he stated "I can get you a great deal for a 45 minute ride at $150" hmmm what's wrong with this picture?? This is not your typical Bed and Breakfast......no dining area, no indoor sitting area, breakfast was offered continental style in a narrow hallway on top of a bureau, evening cheese and wine was offered in the same format and both menus never changed. Would not recommend.....the value is below average
4,6 sur juillet 05, 2010
The Jasmine House was a wonderful place to stay and experience old world Charleston and South Carolina Low Country charm. The staff was excellent - from the initial query to see if rooms were available to setting up the reservation to checking in and parking at the Indigo Inn across the street. The location - - just blocks from the old market, the shops on Meeting and King Street, and Charleston Harbor is well situated for visitors that want to walk around the downtown. Everything was minutes away on foot. This was especially helpful for viewing the Independence Day Fireworks from the Harbor Waterfront Park that were launched from the Yorktown at Patriots Point since parking downtown can be difficult to find when major events are underway. The Jasmine House has a wonderful breakfast and evening wine and cheese snack. Visitors can enjoy breakfast or the evening appetizer either on the front porch (upper or lower) or the enclosed patio behind the kitchen. I would definitely stay at the Jasmine House again in the future. For a native Charlestonian who lives on the other side of the country now, this was a marvelous taste of home.
Centre ville
Charleston, SC (CHS) 9 miles
Prendre la sortie I-26 East. Le I-26 East, voyager pendant env. 55 miles à l'Meeting Street, Centre de sortie du visiteur, (221-B) Continuer sur la rue de 1,2 miles à Pinckney Meeting Street, et tourner à gauche. Le Jasmine House est immédiatement sur votre gauche.
Antiquaires , Aquarium , Galeries d'art, Plage, Dîner gastronomique, Sites historiques, Concerts, Cinéma , Musée, Parcs nationaux/régionaux, Zone naturelle, Océan, Boutiques, Théâtre, Zone de pic-nic, Services religieux, Rivière, Piste de ski
Bed and Breakfast
Ordinateur, Fax, Internet par câble , Appels téléphoniques locaux gratuits
Climatisation, Réveil, Ventilateurs de plafond, Cafetière/Bouilloire, Cheminée, Sèche-cheveux, Internet, Réception chaînes satellite, TV, Téléphone, Service de chambre, Wi-Fi
Location de vélos, Pistes cyclables, Base nautique, Pêche, Golf, Voile, Shopping, Excursion, Natation, Terrain de tennis
Ignatius Nazareth, Manager

subset: commoncrawl


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Water Heaters Only, Inc. is specializes in full service Phoenix water heater repair, replacement and installation company you will ever need. We are licensed, bonded and insured and we proudly service the Greater Phoenix area including Mesa, Gilbert, Scottsdale and Tempe. We offer both residential and commercial water heaters. Since 1968, Water Heaters Only, Inc. has been specializing in all areas of water heater repair and replacement and we offer the highest quality work for the lowest price. Our years of experience and pride in our workmanship have helped us become an expert in the industry. But don't take our word for it. Feel free to browse our website and read some of our positive reviews from one of over 500,000+ satisfied customers. Then you will understand why Water Heaters Only, Inc. is the best – and only – choice for your water heater needs.
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|Home Decor
Knitting and crochet were always my passion. Today I would like to divide it with you.... TatianaView all patterns by designer (122) »
Want to make a gift or would like to create something cool for your home? Here is the solution. Make this wonderful pouf for yourself or your friends. IT TOOK ME JUST 4 HOURS TO KNIT IT!
The digital file will be available to you immediately just as soon as payment is done!
There are two sizes:
A. Size: 40 cm x 20 cm / 15,7 inch x 7,9 inch .
B. Size: 60 cm x 25 cm / 23,6 inch x 9,8 inch .
The pattern includes knitting scheme and the detailed description with the photos, Is easy to understand so even the beginners can do it.
The pattern contains my email address just in case you need help during making it. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need help.
Only for private use!


text:
Guide to the Records of Congregation Bnei Isaac
Processed by Jerry Seligsohn. Additional processing, editing and encoding by Sarah Ponichtera.
Made possible by the Cataloging Hidden Special Collections and Archives Grant from the Council on Library and Information Resources through The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to support "Illuminating Hidden Collections at the Center for Jewish History"
YIVO Institute for Jewish Research
Center for Jewish History
15 West 16th Street
New York, NY 10011
Phone: (212) 246-6080
Fax: (212) 292-1892
Email: email@example.com
URL: http://www.yivoinstitute.org
(c)2012 YIVO Institute for Jewish Research. All rights reserved.
Center for Jewish History, Publisher.
Overview of the Collection
|Congregation Bnei Isaac Narajow (N.J.)
|Collection Title:
|Records of Congregation Bnei Isaac Narajow
|These are the records of Congregation Bnei Isaac Narajow, a landmanshaft or benevolent association. Upon the dissolution of the society, the records were collected by the New York State Department of Insurance. Although many of these societies were founded around the turn of the twentieth century, the records collected in this way primarily date from the second half of the century (1950-2000). The landsmanshaftn collections generally include constitutions, by-laws, minutes, correspondence with members, financial ledgers, deeds to graves, cemetery maps, and membership lists. For details on this particular collection, see the scope and content note.
|Language of Materials:
|English, Yiddish
|Physical Description:
|0.83 Linear Feet
|YIVO Institute for Jewish Research
Administrative History
Founded in 1904 in New York by immigrants from Narayev, Ukraine (Narajow, Narajow Miasto, Narayuv, Nariav, ESE of Lvov). Re-incorporated in 1958, the congregation provided burial benefits at the Beth Moses, Mt. Zion, Mt. Hebron, and Beth David cemeteries.Return to the Top of Page
Scope and Contents
This finding aid is a collection-level record. Box and folder list, if any, are found here in the scope and content note.
Box 1: Correspondence, 1976-1980. Dues Notices, 1978-1981. Dues Book, 1970-1982. Membership Ledger, 1970-1979. Minute Books, 1960-1975. Box 2: Financial Ledger, 1966-1980. Membership Register (in Hebrew script). Cemetery maps. Box 3: Cancelled checks. Check receipts. Stamps. Cemetery maps.Return to the Top of Page
Access Points
This Collection is indexed under the following controlled access subject terms.Click on a subject to search that term in the Center's catalog.
Topical Terms
Geographic Terms


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World Bank PMR Assembly Discusses Domestic Climate Action and Carbon Pricing Instruments
7 March 2014: Participants from 30 countries, representing approximately 80% of global emissions, discussed domestic actions taken in pursuit of low-emissions development at the Eighth Partnership Assembly of the World Bank's Partnership for Market Readiness (PMR). Participants also discussed mitigation approaches and carbon pricing initiatives, such as emissions trading schemes and carbon taxes.
The Assembly included presentations on domestic strategies on climate action and carbon pricing plans. With PMR support, 18 countries are developing carbon pricing plans, a critical step in slowing climate change and ending global poverty, according to the World Bank. Mexico announced it is exploring an emissions-trading scheme within the energy sector. South Africa said it plans to introduce a delayed carbon tax in early 2016. China reported on progress made in seven emissions trading schemes in cities and provinces covering 250 million people and one-third of China's economy. Colombia said it is exploring a performance standard for its public transportation system.
Thailand, Morocco and Colombia presented Market Readiness Proposals on energy efficiency, large-scale sectoral crediting mechanisms and urban transport, respectively.
At the meeting, the PMR announced support for analytical work to help countries integrate carbon-pricing measures into post-2020 mitigation scenarios at the assembly. Tunisia and Kazakhstan became PMR members.
The PMR's Eighth Partnership Assembly took place from 3-5 March, in Mexico City, Mexico. The World Bank established the PMR in 2011 to support, facilitate and build readiness for carbon market instruments. It is a grant-based global partnership of developed and developing countries that offers a platform for countries to share information on low-emissions development efforts and provides support for technical and institutional capacity development and piloting market-based instruments to scale up mitigation efforts. [8th Meeting of the PMR Partnership Assembly Meeting Website] [World Bank Press Release] [World Bank Blog] [World Bank Story]


text: A hockey puck of mass m is attatched to a string that passesthrough a hole in the center of a table. The hockey puckmoves in a circle or radius r. Tied to another end of thestring, and hanging vertically beneath the table, is a massM. Assuming the tabletop is perfectly smooth, what speed mustthe hockey puck have if the mass M is to remain at rest?


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Game of Thrones!
Posted 28 June 2012 - 08:51 PM
I figured the eight of us who frequent the Water Cooler could chat about either the television or book story lines, theories, actors, etc. Or am I the only one who knows about this story?
Posted 29 June 2012 - 04:42 PM
I was introduced to this show just before season two began, and since then I have watched every episode (some multiple times) and read almost through to the end of Feast for Crows. This is an amazing story, some of the best television I have ever seen, and perhaps the deepest plot with some of the most complex characters I have ever known.
I figured the eight of us who frequent the Water Cooler could chat about either the television or book story lines, theories, actors, etc. Or am I the only one who knows about this story?
I've been watching it since it initially aired last year. It's a great series, HBO tends to release some phenomenal shows and this is no exception. I have not read any of the books as i'm not much of a reader but I like the show enough regardless. Many people I know complain that it's slow and there's no action, but it doesn't take away from the series for me. It has a great story, very deep character development and an impressive overall unique experience.
In memory of Steve Shoen, Rest in peace.
Posted 29 June 2012 - 06:39 PM
The series deviated a bit in the second season, and there are some loose ends that I'm intrigued to see how they'll fix. Usually when a show or movie changes from the book, I don't like the adjustments, but HBO has really impressed in that regard.
Posted 29 June 2012 - 10:37 PM
For me though, I have read books and then saw the movie and I enjoy a bit of a branch off so you don't know exactly what's going to happen as you watch it.
*spoiler alert*
With that said, as it stands now Daenerys is probably my current favorite character, the storyline with the dragons is exciting although Khal didn't stick around long enough for my taste. He was an awesome character, along with Sean Bean playing Eddard. Probably my only two gripes with it so far was those two checking out in the first season.
In memory of Steve Shoen, Rest in peace.
Posted 02 July 2012 - 08:09 AM
Posted 02 July 2012 - 11:26 AM
works every time
Posted 02 July 2012 - 12:12 PM
I've been a fan of the books for a long time, and was very excited when I heard about the show coming to HBO. So far, I think they're doing an excellent job with it. The first season followed the book as closely as you can in a 10 episode season, with only relatively minor changes. Season 2 did stray a bit farther from the book narrative, but I can understand the changes. Book stories rarely translate perfectly to an exciting screenplay, liberties have to be taken. I think they've kept the spirit of the story intact, and that's what counts. The Battle of the Blackwater in season 2 was one of the most epic hours of television I've ever seen.
The Battle of Blackwater Bay was amazing, and after seeing it, I'm excited to see how they will portray a certain event in the third book.
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Re: WWE: The Platinum Era
February 3rd, 2006 | Amway Arena; Orlando, Florida
'Size Matters ... Matters'
Our broadcast begins with a recap video of the events of the Royal Rumble, which took place just twenty-four hours ago as the Royal Rumble theme song Stricken plays in the background. Results from SmackDown! include Kid Kash retaining his Cruiserweight Championship in a Cruiserweight Open, as well as Batista defeating Mark Henry by DQ when Henry snaps, eventually splashing Batista through the Spanish announce table. On the RAW side of things, we see Trish Stratus retain her Womens Championship against Victoria, despite an inadvertent distraction from Mickie James, who Stratus accidentally Chick Kicked, as well as Edge retaining his WWE Championship in a hard fought battle with John Cena. It then finishes with highlights of the Royal Rumble Match, such as Bobby Lashley running rampant, Rob Van Dam making his return, Kurt Angle being shown beaten and bloodied backstage, yet still fighting through to compete in the Royal Rumble Match, only to be eliminated last by Randy Orton, who poses in front of the WrestleMania logo as pyro shoots of behind him.
We now see the usual SmackDown! opening video, accompanied by the SmackDown! theme song, Rise Up. As soon as that finishes up we cut into the Amway Arena to a buzzing crowd, who are further fired up by pyro exploding in any which way on the stage. We now pan around to see those excited fans, before finally settling down at ringside to see our broadcast team of Michael Cole & Tazz.
Michael Cole:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night SmackDown!, live here from the Amway Arena, in Orlando, Florida. Im Michael Cole joined here by my partner, Tazz, and partner, it has been just five days from an epic Royal Rumble event, which in my mind, SmackDown! dominated thanks to one man.
Thats right, Cole. Like him or hate him, last Sunday night, Randy Orton proved his talent to all on the grand stage, baby.
Michael Cole:
It truly was a battle of attrition, as Randy Orton managed to outlast RAWs Kurt Angle and claim himself a main event spot at WrestleMania. However, thats not all we saw on the SmackDown! side of things at No Way Out, as we also saw Mark Henry get himself disqualified against Batista, before brutally assaulting the World Heavyweight Champion in a sick, twisted post-match attack.
As I said Sunday night, Cole, Henry made a statement, and if Batista wasnt worried about him like he claimed, well he had better be thinkin bout Henry now.
Michael Cole:
Kid Kash also retained his Cruiserweight Championship in a Cruiserweight Open, however, he will defend his title again tonight by order of SmackDown! General Manager, Theodore Long, as he goes one-on-one with Super Crazy.
Not only that, Cole, but The Deadman, The Phenom, The Undertaker makes his return to Friday Night SmackDown! tonight, as he goes one-on-one with the tough Irish bastard, Finlay. What a brawl thats gonna be!
The crowd becomes unglued as they react with a massive pop for the
World Heavyweight Champion, Batista
. Big Dave looks none too happy as he walks out onto the stage; in fact, he looks almost as if he is trying to hold back an expression of tremendous pain. Unshaved and untamed, The Animal wears blue jeans and a white singlet instead of his usual attire of a custom made suit, with the World Heavyweight Championship not even in its usual position slung over Batistas shoulder; instead he holds it in his hand down beside him.
Michael Cole:
Here is the man who last Sunday night was absolutely brutalised by Mark Henry, and Tazz, he doesnt look like hes got much sleep since then.
Mission accomplished by The Worlds Strongest Man right there, Cole.
Batista now climbs up into the ring and demands a microphone, which he receives, before striding around the ring.
Alright ...
you got me.
Batista pauses as the crowd stay silent, not sure of what Batista is talking about.
Im gonna be honest here ... I didnt think you could do it. I thought youd just be like everyone else ... but I was wrong.
I ... was wrong.
Batista again pauses, while the crowd stays silent.
We need to end this ... we need ... to settle this. This ... this isnt just a rivalry anymore ... this isnt just about the gold ... this ...
this is personal.
Another pause.
Mark Henry ...
The crowd initially pops, finally understanding what Batista has been talking about, before booing Henry.
Get your ass out here right now.
The crowd buzzes with excitement at the possibility of the face-off, while Batista paces back and forth in the ring, waiting for ...
The crowd explodes into a reaction of pure heat, as none other than the winner of the 2006 Royal Rumble,
Randy Orton
walks out onto the stage. Orton looks the polar opposite of Batista, as, like always, Orton is well groomed; his face cleanly shaven and his hair perfectly styled. With a black coat jacket to cover his Affliction brand t-shirt (along with Affliction brand jeans), Orton looks on top of the world. Smirking, The Legend Killer wastes no time in making his way down to the ring, ignoring the fans at ringside who hurl abuse at him, before climbing up into the ring and receiving a microphone. Orton isnt quick to make a comment, as he instead looks at Batista with a quizzical look on his face, while Batista just stares right back at Orton.
Randy Orton:
Whats the matter, Dave? You alright there, man? Youre looking a little bit ... frazzled.
Orton starts to walk around Batista, continuing to analyse him, as Batista just stares a hole right back through Orton.
Randy Orton:
Is it ... is it that you werent expecting me? Were you expecting somebody else? Dave, I understand that you and Mark Henry, you have your little ... problem, shall we say, but rest assured nobody, and I mean NOBODY is stealing the spotlight ... from me.
Orton smirks, as Batista stays motionless.
Randy Orton:
What you ... you dont follow? You look a little confused there big man, which really, you shouldnt be. You think that what you did this Sunday matters? Your little ass-whooping that you suffered at the hands of Mark Henry? That means nothing NOTHING compared to what
accomplished this past Sunday.
Randy Orton:
For weeks, upon weeks, upon weeks, I told you, Dave, I told all of these people that come the Royal Rumble, I was going to do what I was born to do, that I was going to fulfil my God-given right, that I I was going to win the Royal ... Rumble. When I was telling you this, I wasnt just
saying it.
I wasnt just giving you
my word.
I wasnt just
promising you.
What I was giving you, Dave, and all of these people was
Heat, as Orton pauses.
Randy Orton:
This past Sunday, I didnt just deliver. I didnt just come through on my word. I didnt just fulfil my gospel ... oh no, this past Sunday, I achieved my
Orton again smirks as the crowd again boos.
Randy Orton:
All of this, ALL OF THIS, it was ... born in me. My good looks, my strength, my power, my speed, my mind,
my talent
... I was born ... with it all. My grandfather, the great Bob Orton Sr., was a legend, was an icon of this business at his time. He was a renegade, a pioneer, a revolutionary leader in this industry that we know and that we love today. My father ...
Orton laughs to himself.
Randy Orton:
My father was the
wrestling star on the 1980s. Forget about Roddy Piper, forget about The Iron Sheik, forget about Andre The Giant, hell, forget about Hulk ... Hogan ... the one name the one name of that 1980s that had all of the talent in the world ... was Bob, Orton, Jr. A Hall of Famer, my dad was greater ... than them all.
Heat for the obvious fabrication from Orton.
Randy Orton:
And then ... then theres me.
Massive heat instantly.
Randy Orton:
I could talk about the fact that I was the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion for the past five years. I could talk about how I am the youngest World Heavyweight Champion of all time. I could talk about how not only am I the present, but also the future of this business. I could even talk about how Evolution was the group that was carried by
Heat, as Orton smiles at a still unmoving Animal.
Randy Orton:
Or, I could sum myself up with just a few simple words and say that I I am a
true ... wrestling ... prodigy.
Randy Orton:
My win on Sunday was a mere formality, for, quite simply put, I was
BORN ... to win.
Call it my coming out party, call it my true arrival as the leader of Friday Night SmackDown!, call it whatever you want, because what I call it is destiny. So tonight ... tonight shouldnt be about Dave Batista ... nor should it be about Mark Henry ... oh no. Tonight should be about one man, and one man only ... Randy ... Orton!
The obligatory heat of course comes.
Randy Orton:
These people, Dave, they didnt come here tonight in hope of seeing you get your ass kicked my Mark Henry. No, they came here instead to get a glimpse of the greatness that is Randy Orton, so I suggest you step aside and give these people what they want to see.
Orton looks at Batista, who STILL, continues to stare at Orton.
Randy Orton:
Orton pauses for a moment, content with the fact that Batista is still yet to say anything to him, let alone move.
Randy Orton:
Now, I have some good news, and I have some bad news, some of which applies to these people, and some of which applies to you, Dave. As we all know, just like my father did twenty-one years ago at the very first WrestleMania, we know that I will be headlining the show, that I will be involved in the main event of the evening. Now, the good news is that I will indeed be staying on my home of Friday Night SmackDown!.
The crowd gives a mixed reaction, unsure of what to make of this good news.
Randy Orton:
The bad news and this is the bit that applies to you, Dave the bad news is that come WrestleMania 22, should you still have that World Heavyweight Championship that you hold in your very hands right now ... you wont be holding it any longer once
get through with you, Dave. Should you somehow fluke your way past Mark Henry again, provided youre not too scared to wrestle him again, Dave, at WrestleMania 22 ... that titles as good as mine.
Orton smirks and looks down at the title which Batista continues to hold down beside him, putting himself in some kind of a trance when ...
Are you done?
The crowd pops as Orton looks up, coming out of his trance, shocked that Batista finally opening his mouth.
Really, Randy, are you finished, because if you are Ill just doze back off to sleep and let you continue.
Another pop as Orton simply smirks at Batista.
Now, while normally, I couldnt give a damn which brand it is that you called home, I cant help but say Im happy that you decided to remain here on Friday Night SmackDown!. Why is that, you ask? Its simple. I look forward ... to kickin, your, ass!
Another pop from the crowd as Ortons smirk starts to disappear, though The Legend Killer continues to look cool.
But but before I kick your ass, Ive got a matter that still needs attending to.
The crowd begins to buzz with anticipation once again.
Mark Henry ... Im right here, so come on out and just
to get a piece of me!
With the sound of the crowd popping reverberating in the background, Batista, alongside Orton who seems to have taken up the role on an interested onlooker, waits to see if The Worlds Strongest Man will take up his challenge. We wait and we wait, allowing the tension to build to a fever pitch before we suddenly hear ...
It is indeed a letdown, as
SmackDown! General Manager, Theodore Long
walks out to the top of the ramp in his suit, already holding a microphone. Seemingly not wanting to waste time, Long stops at the top of the ramp and raises his microphone as his music cuts out.
Theodore Long:
Now hold up just a minute there, playas.
We see Batista in the ring sighing to himself, obviously very disappointed.
Theodore Long:
First off, on behalf of everyone on Friday Night SmackDown!, I would like to congratulate Randy Orton on his victory this past Sunday night at the Royal Rumble, takin Friday Night SmackDown! off to new heights in the main event of WrestleMania!
The crowd gives a mixed reaction as Orton nods in the ring.
Theodore Long:
Secondly, to Batista, I would also like to congratulate you on retaining your World Heavyweight Championship this past Sunday night.
Another mixed reaction.
Theodore Long:
Now I know that things didnt exactly go as planned for you, Batista, and I can appreciate that, which is actually, the main reason that Im out here right now.
A small pop as Long pauses.
Theodore Long:
Now Batista, I know that after this past Sunday, youre angry ... youre mad. You are chompin at the bit to get to Mark Henry, and face him one on one, in that very ring. And since I also know that all of these people wanna see that match too, heres what Im gonna do. In a rematch from this past Sunday night, it is gonna be The Worlds Strongest Man Mark Henry, challengin the World Heavyweight Champion, The Animal Batista for the World Heavyweight Championship ...
HUGE pop.
Theodore Long:
... Next week, on Friday Night SmackDown!.
Owned~ Despite Long being a face, the crowd still shit all over this.
Theodore Long:
Now, I know what yall thinkin: Why cant this big title match, why it happen tonight? And yknow, I have an answer for all o you, which Batista himself, should already know.
Long reaches inside his coat from a moment, before pulling out a piece of paper and holding it up.
Theodore Long:
This ... this right here is a letter that I received earlier today from WWEs own Dr. Lloyd Youngblood, and it reads that due to the injuries sustained last Sunday night at the Royal Rumble, the World Heavyweight Champion, Dave Batista, is unable to compete in singles action here tonight, on Friday Night SmackDown!.
Theodore Long:
Now I too, was quite disappointed when I received this letter as I wanted to see that match tonight myself ... but that doesnt mean that you people here in Orlando, Florida cant see a preview!
Big pop.
Theodore Long:
Because while Batista
be barred from competing in singles action, he certainly
is not
barred from competing altogether, so heres what Im gonna do.
Long pauses.
Theodore Long:
Tonight, in our main event, we are gonna see tag team action, as it is gonna be the World Heavyweight Champion, Batista, teaming up with his friend Rey Mysterio ...
Massive pop.
Theodore Long:
... To take on the team of The Worlds Strongest Man, Mark Henry ...
Big time heat.
Theodore Long:
... ... And the winner of the 2006 Royal Rumble, Randy Orton!
Huge mixed reaction as some people boo Orton, while others pop for the match. Orton, meanwhile smiles in the ring, while Batista just continues to look up the ramp at Long.
Theodore Long:
And if you can feel that, gimme a holla holla!
The crowd gives a very big pop as Long acknowledges them by raising his hand and walking off backstage. We then see Orton smirking in the ring, while Batista stares at the mat, before going to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return to SmackDown! to hear ...
The crowd gives a respectable pop as
Shannon Moore
makes his way out onto the stage energetically, calling out to the crowd as he does so. Looking more confident by the week, The Prince of Punk excitedly walks down the ramp, slapping the hands of the fans at ringside, before climbing up into the ring and posing for the fans.
Michael Cole:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to an action packed Friday Night SmackDown!, where already tonight we have seen not just a blockbuster main event match made for next week, where Batista will once again defend his World Heavyweight Championship against his rival, The Worlds Strongest Man Mark Henry, but also a mega tag team main event tonight!
And I cant wait for that! Batista, teamin with Rey Mysterio, to take on the team of Mark Henry and the 2006 Royal Rumble winner, Randy Orton. Man, that ones gonna be off the charts!
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Raleigh, North Carolina, weighing 202 lbs, Shannon Moore!
The crowd now gives some very nice heat as the red carpet is rolled out and the paparazzi prepare themselves, waiting, before the
WWE Tag Team Champions, MNM
confidently stride their way out onto the stage. Stopping, Mercury and Nitro flash the gold that hangs from their pants, while Melina rubs the belts. The trio then begin their march down to the ring, flicking their hair back and raising their arms, garnering heat from the natives of Orlando. As is normally the case, MNM stop at the foot of the ramp as we then get the amazing entrance to the ring from Melina, before Mercury readies himself for action.
Michael Cole:
Ever since Shannon Moore caused an upset victory over Johnny Nitro a few weeks ago on Friday Night SmackDown!, Moore has been rolling, leaving MNM embarrassed. Melina arranged this match for tonight, hoping to save some face for her boys.
Hey, MNM dont need to save no face, Cole. What theyre tryin ta do is teach Shannon Moore a lesson in respect, and while I think Moores got a big upside, that is what I think theyre gonna do.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, being accompanied to the ring by Johnny Nitro & Melina, from Los Angeles, California, weighing 215 lbs, he is one half of the WWE Tag Team Champions, Joey Mercury!
Match One
Tag Team Match:
Shannon Moore
WWE Tag Team Champion
Joey Mercury
w/ Johnny Nitro & Melina
The crowd are fairly fired up for this one, as we see two young men, who quite frankly, own fairly hard. Despite Mercury wanting to make an impression and teach Shannon Moore a lesson, Moore is able to frustrate Mercury in the beginning moments of the match, using his superior speed and agility to his advantage as he dashes around the ring, keeping the aggressive Mercury off guard. However, this proves to be Moores undoing, as he jumps up to the second rope in the corner, then looks for a crossbody block, only for Mercury to wisely drop down out of the way, leaving Moore to crash down to earth with a splat. Mercurys offence from here isnt very exciting as he slows the match down, deciding to grind away at Moore with a mainly ground and pound assault, rather than doing anything flashy. Melina, feeling the need to interject herself, also gets a go at Moore, slapping him as Mercury distracts the referee. Despite MNMs constant attempts to humiliate Moore, the cruiserweight will not be kept down, as he suddenly fires back when Mercury slaps him across the head insultingly. Panicking, Mercury quickly knees Moore in the midsection, then backs off into the ropes, though he is taken down with a big leg lariat from Moore, sending both men down.
Slowly, both men make the ascent back to their feet, with Mercury swinging wildly for a right hand immediately, only for Moore to duck under it, run off to the ropes, then come back with a headscissors takedown, much to the crowds delight. Moore is now fired up as he gets back to his feet and fires off with a series of right hand to a rising Moore, backing him off into the ropes, before attempting to send him off for an Irish whip which Mercury is able to reverse. Springing back, Moore just ducks under a clothesline from Mercury ... then hits a spinning heel kick right on the button! Knowing he has Mercury reeling, Moore makes a cover, alas, he can only gain a two count, leaving him to go high risk as he now heads to the top rope. A dazed Mercury gets to his feet a little slowly, perhaps not knowing where he is as he gives his back to Moore, before turning ... and being taken down with a flying crossbody block ... for a two count! Despite the kick out, Moore gets back to his feet looking fired up as he runs off to the ropes, looking to run back at Mercury ... BUT MELINA GRABS HIS LEG! Despite not quite tripping Moore, Melina provides a distraction, allowing Mercury to recover ... although she pays for it as the referee yells at both her and Nitro to leave from ringside!
Neither Melina nor Nitro are happy, though they slowly start to back up the ramp once they see Mercury stalking Moore, knowing that they could have done the required damage anyway as Moore now turns and gets a boot to the midsection ... AND MERCURY SETS UP FOR THE DOUBLE ARM DDT ... BUT MOORE TAKES HIS LEGS OUT FROM UNDERNEATH HIM AND MAKES A JACKKNIFE COVER ... AND GETS THE THREE!
Winner: Shannon Moore
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, Shannon Moore!
And Moore picks up another victory in singles action against the WWE Tag Team Champions! Getting back to his feet, Moore has his hand raised by the referee ... THEN GETS SENT TUMBLING DOWN AS JOHNNY NITRO JUMPS HIM FROM BEHIND! Nitro then rolls Moore over and gets in a mount position, before RAINING down on him with fists ... when suddenly the crowd cheer ...
Hardy slides into the ring and Nitro instantly runs for the hills, rolling away with his partner Mercury and manager Melina joining him on the outside, leaving Hardy to help Moore back up to his feet.
Hardy & Moore now lean over the ropes and yell out to MNM, who continue to back up the ramp, telling them that they havent seen the last of them.
Michael Cole:
Shannon Moore pulling off another win there partner, but what interests me is Matt Hardy, who has also been having problems with the WWE Tag Team Champions, getting involved and coming to help his old buddy Moore. Could a reunion between these two old friends be on the cards?
I dunno, Cole, but I do know that if MNM has anything to do with it, whatever reunion they have, it aint gonna be a happy one.
We see Moore & Hardy one last time before cutting away backstage to see Josh Matthews standing by backstage.
Josh Matthews:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, he is The Fighting Irishman, Finlay!
The crowd boos as
walks into view, holding his signature shillelagh.
Josh Mathews:
Finlay, as we all know, later tonight youre going to be going one on one with The Undertaker in his return to Friday Night SmackDown!, but firstly, Id like to ask you about this past Sunday, when after inviting Bobby Lashley to try to get the best of you, he did just that by ...
Finlay thrusts his shillelagh up under the jaw of Matthews, telling him to shut up.
Did you just say what I think you said? Lashley ... gettin the best ... of me? Lad, you must be stupider than you look, because last time I checked, Lashley was the one lyin flat on his back when I took
shillelagh and smashed it over the top of
big, bald, ugly head of his. An yeah, after that, he may have lifted me up an thrown me up over the top rope to eliminate me from the Royal Rumble, but as far as Im concerned ... I won the battle. But, if ya think that me an Lashley, if ya think our business is done, then yave got another thing comin to ya, because that was just one battle ... the war ... the
... its far from over.
Finlay flashes the gap-toothed smile for a moment, before continuing.
Now, as far as The Undertaker goes, I understand that his return, its meant to be a big deal, but Deadman, know this ... tonight, ya not steppin into the ring with some rookie whos beaten before ya even step foot in the ring. Ya not facin someone whos gonna back down, an ya certainly not facin someone whos scared of ya. In fact, Taker, ya may even say that ya facin a phenom yourself tonight.
So, Taker, lemme make myself personally clear ... tonight, you bring all ya magic, you bring all ya tricks, you bring all ya games ... and Ill bring
the fight.
Again, Finlay smiles, before walking off as we now head off to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to see
Brent Albright & Jillian Hall
both seated in a locker-room ... before the camera pans back to show
John Bradshaw Layfield
pacing back and forth, looking awfully stressed out.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
I cant believe this! Mark Henry? Mark
Henry? That
is getting another shot at the vailla gorilla? What in the
is this? Planet of the Apes?
Layfield stares at Jillian and Albright. Jillian, intimidated by her boss, looks down at her shoes, while Albright looks up at him, perhaps with a bright idea.
Brent Albright:
Well what do ya plan on doin about it?
Apparently not.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
What do I plan on doin about it? What do ya think, Brent? If I knew what I was gonna do about it, I wouldnt be standin here right now, would I?
JBL stops for a moment to think.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Im not done. There is not a chance, NOT A SINGLE CHANCE, that I am lettin either Mark Henry or Batista go to WrestleMania when it should be
Ya think theyre headliners? My name is money! Batista and Mark Henry are nothin,
compared to J B L!
JBL breathes in heavily, seething away to himself.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Thats it ... Im goin to Teddy Long.
Layfield turns to head for the door, but is soon stopped by the sound of Jillian.
Jillian Hall:
Are you sure thats a good idea? I mean, usually we just end up in more trouble than we begin with when you go to Mr. Long.
Awkward silence.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Theres no
about this, Jillian ... you can help Brent prepare for his match ...
goin to see Teddy.
JBL walks out of view, and we hear the door slamming shut, leaving Jillian & Albright to sigh to themselves.
We then cut away from that and head off to ringside to hear ...
The crowd gives a very nice pop as a man, who last Sunday in particular, has been shooting up the ranks of the SmackDown! roster in
Bobby Lashley
walks out onto the stage and poses, setting off the pyro that shoots out from behind him. As always, Lashley walks down the ramp with a quiet confidence about him, before jumping up onto the apron and climbing into the ring to salute his fans while waiting for his opponent.
Michael Cole:
Last night this man Bobby Lashley proved why he is a future star of the WWE when he made six eliminations, the most in the Royal Rumble, including the mammoth World Tag Team Champions, Kane & Big Show.
Ive been sayin it for awhile, Cole. Lashley is a beast, and he has all the tools, in my opinion, to go all the way.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Colorado Springs, Colorado, weighing 275 lbs, Bobby Lashley!
The crowd lets off some decent heat as
The Bluebloods
make their way down to the ring, Paul Burchill dressed to compete, while William Regal looks rather snappy in a suit. The duo dont waste their time pandering to the fans as they instead just climb up into the ring, prepared for the battle Burchill is about to engage in.
Michael Cole:
Paul Burchill was another man who was rather impressive in the Royal Rumble this past Sunday, but the up and coming Lashley is definitely going to be a test for him tonight.
Im a big rap for this man. In my opinion, he has all the potential in the world because hes big enough, hes agile, he can brawl and he can wrestle. Lashley may be a big test, but dont ever count out Paul Burchill.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, being accompanied to the ring by William Regal, from Chelsea, England, weighing 245 lbs, Paul Burchill!
Match Two
Singles Match:
Bobby Lashley
Paul Burchill
w/ William Regal
Another match with two over enough guys here, the crowd are once again into this one. Burchill tries to prove hes a tough guy in the early going by going toe to toe with Lashley, although Lashley is of course able to overpower the smaller Brit, who soon realises hell have to use his brains, rather than his brawn to get back into the match. Perhaps channelling his mentor in Regal, Burchill uses some smarts when he grabs Lashley by the tights and uses leverage to slam him down face first into the second turnbuckle, bringing an immediate halt to the dominance of Lashley. Burchill then smothers Lashley to the best of his ability, mixing his brawling and submission skills to restrain the bigger man. Oddly enough, William Regal doesnt interfere at any point, or even say anything, perhaps instead studying his pupils progress. The big comeback from Lashley comes when, having endured a camel clutch from Burchill, the big man fights back to his feet with Burchill clinging onto Lashleys back for dear life ... and Lashley rams him back into the corner! Lashley comes forward and squashes Burchill a second time, before backing out of the corner and leaving the prone Brit hanging from the ropes. Despite this comeback from Lashley, Regal at ringside is still silent, watching on as Lashley now charges in at his protégé ... but Burchill gets his foot up and meets the jaw of Lashley, before charging out at Bobby and going for a clothesline ... but Lashley ducks, then drops Burchill with a back suplex!
Both men are down for awhile following this move, before getting up and trading fist in an exchange which Lashley wins, mainly due to his larger size. The Dominator then attempts to whip his foe off to the ropes, although Burchill reverses and sends Lashley off to the ropes ... only for Lashley to explode through Burchill on the rebound with a clothesline! Lashley hits a few more clotheslines, Burchill rising to get met with them time and time again, before finally Lashley changes things up, kicking The Blueblood in the midsection and nailing a delayed vertical suplex for a two count. Lashley looks to follow up, bending over to pick Burchill up, though Burchill, in an act of desperation, rakes the eyes of Lashley, sending him staggering off, before the Brit charges off after him ... and gets thrown overhead with a belly to belly suplex! Lashley is on fire as he grabs a rising Burchill, then quickly gets him in position and pops the hips ... LAYING HIM OUT WITH AN EXPLODER SUPLEX! The crowd comes alive as Lashley motions for the end, before waiting on Burchill to get up ... AND THEN HOISTING HIM UP FOR THE DOMINATOR WHEN HE DOES ... BUT BURCHILL SLIPS OFF AND RUNS OFF TO THE ROPES, THEN GOES FOR A CLOTHESLINE ON THE REBOUND ... BUT LASHLEY DUCKS ... SPEAR! Lashley cuts Burchill in half with the Spear, then immediately makes the cover and gets the three.
Winner: Bobby Lashley
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, Bobby Lashley!
The crowd pops as Lashley gets back to his feet and has his hand raised by the referee, while Burchill rolls to the outside to join Regal.
Michael Cole:
Lashley, impressive as ever with another win here tonight, keeping his undefeated streak going.
And its gonna take a lot to snap that streak, Cole. Ever since debut this man has looked damn near unstoppable.
We got one last view of Lashley, before cutting backstage where we see Kristal Marshall standing by.
Kristal Marshall:
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time, Chris Benoit!
The crowd pops as the camera pans around to reveal
Chris Benoit
standing beside Kristal.
Kristal Marshall:
Chris, this past month hasnt been good to you. After losing the best of seven series for the United States Title to Booker Ts substitute, Randy Orton, thanks in part to Bookers protégé, Orlando Jordan, you last Sunday night, didnt gain a shot at the World Heavyweight Championship that you longed for by falling short in the Royal Rumble. My question to you, Chris, is where to from here?
Chris Benoit:
Yknow, Im not gonna dodge the truth, Im not gonna lie. Yeah, this past month, its been rough. Ive missed some golden opportunities. The United States Championship ... it was almost mine. I could almost taste the gold ... but then ... then it was taken from me, right when I was ready to grab it. The Royal Rumble Match? Yeah, its not easy to win. You go out there and there are twenty-nine other superstars all thinking the same thing, all wanting to do what you want to do and go on to main event WrestleMania. The difference between me and them though is that I
I could have won it ... I know, that I was a legitimate chance. Two years ago ... two years ago I did it ... but this time ... I just couldnt cut it.
Benoit gives a wry smile, pausing for a moment.
Chris Benoit:
So, where to from here? What next for Chris Benoit? Should I just pack it in, knowing that I would be listening to all the doubters, that I would be proving them wrong? Or, do I do what I have learned from competing in this sport from twenty long years? Do I put my head down, work harder, and strive for the success, for the gold, that I know I can achieve?
Another slight pause.
Chris Benoit:
In twenty years in this industry, Ive learned one thing, and that is to
give in. Booker T, you think that Im done with you? You think that after you took our friendship of ten plus years and threw it away, screwing me just for your own personal gain ... you think Im done with you? Booker, you
beat me. In fact, the last time I checked, the only reason you hold that title is because of the fact that youre inured and that you had not just one, but two other people do the work for you. Im not done ... Im not done. That United States Title, I dont just want it ... I
it. So Booker, when youre fit, when youre healthy, youre gonna find out what you should have known long ago ... Chris Benoit? Hes for real.
We now see Benoit walk out as we go to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to see the
United States Champion, Booker T
standing in his lavish locker-room, looking rather upset, flanked by his beautiful wife
and his protégé,
Orlando Jordan
. The trio all look classy, OJ wearing an expensive looking suit, Sharmell in a beautiful dress, and Booker wearing a suit with the United States Title slung over his shoulder, and clutches holding his legs up.
Booker T:
Can you believe dat? Dat sucka ... dat sucka Chris Benoit ... he wants another shot at me? Aint he learnt yet that this United States Title ... it aint his. Dis here United States Title is
title. Next week, Chris Benoit ... we gonna make him pay.
Booker, along with Jordan & Sharmell, now smile evilly ...
... As we cut away to now see
SmackDown! General Manager, Theodore Long
on the phone, apparently midway through a discussion with whoever is on the other end of the line.
Theodore Long:
Listen playa, I
he would be happy to see you back ... ... ... I think that could work for sure ... ... ... Yeah playa, we can talk about that contract right now if ya ...
Teddy is suddenly cut off as we hear some sort of a commotion in the background, before what appears to be a suit stands behind the shoulder of Teddy ... with both the camera and Teddy looking up ... to show
John Bradshaw Layfield
Theodore Long:
Listen playa, somethin just came up, so Ill have to speak to ya later ... ... ... Alright, holla holla.
Long sighs and closes his phone with a look of pure frustration, before turning his attention to JBL.
Theodore Long:
What do
want, JBL?
John Bradshaw Layfield:
I want you to make things right.
Theodore Long:
What in the hell are you talkin about?
John Bradshaw Layfield:
The world title match next week.
Theodore Long:
Yeah, what about it?
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Insert me into it.
Theodore Long:
And just why would I wanna do somethin like that?
John Bradshaw Layfield
: The question you
be askin is why
you wanna do somethin like that.
Theodore Long:
But I already know the answer to that.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Oh yeah? And what would that be?
Theodore Long:
People actually wanna see Batista defend his World Heavyweight Title against Mark Henry.
Owned. JBL looks shocked at first, before changing from shock to rage.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
you? Do you know who youre talkin to? In case ya forgot, I am the cornerstone of this show, of
show. I am Mr. SmackDown!, I am the reason, that anyone,
tunes in to see this show in the first place? Ya think they wanna see Batista vs. Henry? These people dont give a damn about Mark Henry, nor do they give a damn about Batista! The person that they
paid to see is me ... J B L!
John Bradshaw Layfield:
In fact, Teddy, the only reason you made it past the first year in this job is because you were lucky enough to come along when the longest reigning WWE Champion in SmackDown! history, The Wrestling Gawd, was not only bringin in the ratings, but was also bringin in the people by the barrelful. You wanna talk about ratings? Teddy,
am ratings, and thats why, if ya know whats good for you ... youll find a way to get me the World Heavyweight Title by WrestleMania 22.
More heat.
Theodore Long:
JBL, the
thing I need to get you, is outta my office!
Big pop.
Theodore Long:
But Ill tell ya what. If you are so annoyed that you will not be competin in the main event of WrestleMania 22, I say you take it up with the man, who last Sunday, eliminated
from the Royal Rumble.
JBL gulps, clearly knowing who Long is talking about.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Ya know what? Maybe I will.
And with that, JBL eyeballs Teddy one more time, before storming out of his office, leaving Long to sulk back into his seat in peace.
Meanwhile, we now cut back to ringside to hear ...
The crowd gives decent heat as
Brent Albright
makes his way out, being accompanied to the ring by
Jillian Hall
. Albright wastes little time in making his way down the ramp after doing a gun motion at the top of it, deciding to instead briskly walk down to the ring, chewing some gum obnoxiously.
Michael Cole:
JBL, obviously not getting what he wanted from SmackDown! General Manager, Teddy Long, and I have to give credit to Teddy for standing up to JBL and not giving in to what JBLs demands.
Hey, usually I like the decisions Teddy Long makes, but he has to understand that JBL does equal ratings. The guy is Mr. SmackDown! after all.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Tulsa, Oklahoma, weighing 223 lbs, The Hired Gun Brent Albright!
The crowd now gives a reasonable pop as
bounces his way out onto the stage, full of energy. Funaki slaps hands with the fans on the way down to the ring, before sliding in and peering across the ring at his foe.
Michael Cole:
Well this right here is JBLs Hired Gun, Brent Albrights first match here on Friday Night SmackDown!, and from what weve seen, Tazz, tonights not going to be an easy night for Funaki.
This Brent Albright, hes a big guy, and if JBL sought him out and found him, you just know hes gonna be loaded with talent. Im lookin forward to seein what he can do.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, from Japan, weighing 192 lbs, Funaki!
Match Three
Singles Match:
Brent Albright
w/ Jillian Hall vs.
This match is obviously a squash, used to promote the amazingly epic skills that Brent Albright possesses. Running through Funaki in just about no time, Albright shows us some of his suplex variations as he manhandles a hapless Funaki, before finishing him off with a Half Nelson Suplex into a Crowbar (armbar for those of you who havent seen much Albright) for an easy submission victory.
Winner: Brent Albright
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, Brent Albright!
Albright gets back to his feet and smirks, having his hand raised by the referee, while Jillian climbs up into the ring to join him.
Michael Cole:
Wow. Brent Albright just decimated Funaki in a matter of moments and ...
Michael Cole:
Oh my! It isnt ...
The arena fills with a putrid red smoke, filtering from the top of the stage, with a figure slowly emerging from that smoke ...
The Boogeyman
. The crowd cheers as The Boogeyman slowly walks down to the ring, with Albright waiting on him, daring him to climb into the ring, much like last week. Boogeyman gladly accepts, sliding into the ring ... AND MUCH LIKE LAST WEEK ALBRIGHT RETREATS! Albright slides out of the ring and joins Jillian, quickly backing his way up the ramp.
Michael Cole:
In almost a repeat of last week, Brent Albright again runs away from The Boogeyman. Albright said last week that he wasnt scared of The Boogeyman, but partner, this suggests otherwise.
Hey, Cole, Brent Albright just competed in a gruelling match, and obviously isnt ready for a fight against a fresh Boogeyman. Cut him a little slack will ya?
Michael Cole:
Oh yes, real gruelling. After two minutes Albright must be real tired.
We see The Boogeyman one more time before we cut backstage to see
Randy Orton & Mark Henry
seated in a locker-room together. Orton looks set for action, wearing his ring gear, along with the Affliction top he was wearing earlier, while Henry cracks his knuckles and stretches his neck.
Randy Orton:
Right, so lets go through this one more time ... tonight we
Batista, and show Dave that he shouldnt mess with either of us. Is that right?
Mark Henry:
Right ... tonight ... tonights all about makin a statement ...
Randy Orton:
Exactly, so I was thinkin ...
Mark Henry:
... Which is exactly what Im gonna do when I pin his shoulders down to the mat for the one ... two ... three.
Randy Orton:
Whoa, whoa ... when you pin him? We hadnt discussed
at all.
Mark Henry:
Well you agreed that tonights about makin a statement, and thats exactly what
gonna do since
title shot next week.
Both men now get up and get in one anothers faces.
Randy Orton:
I know
title match next week, but lets not forget
the one whos got the WrestleMania title match, and
the one whos going to be World Heavyweight Champion after WrestleMania, regardless of whos World Heavyweight Champion before then.
Mark Henry:
Are you sayin you think you can beat me?
Randy Orton:
Im saying I
I can beat
Henry continues to look pissed for a moment, before cracking a smile.
Mark Henry:
Youre lucky I dont crush you like a bug right now.
Orton continues to look into the eye of Henry, before backing down and sitting back where he was, leaving Henry to smile as we head off to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to now see
sitting in his locker-room in his wrestling gear, World Heavyweight Title by his side on the bench. Batista looks to be struggling with his bootlaces, slowly tying them up, when suddenly we see a pair of shiny blue tights move in next to Batista. Batista looks up (and the camera pans back) to see
Rey Mysterio
! The crowd pops big as a smile comes across the face of Batista, possibly fir the first time since last Sunday.
Rey! How are you, man?
Rey Mysterio:
How am I? How are
, Dave? You looked a little shaken up out there earlier tonight.
Maybe a little, but Im past all that, because next week, Ive got what I wanted. And I know what youre thinkin, Rey. Youre thinkin that Ive gotta get myself focussed on tonight, but believe me, I am. I am more focussed than ever, because tonight, I get to give Mark Henry a
of the pain that hes gonna suffer next week.
Rey Mysterio:
Im glad to hear it, man ... but, about tonight. Now, I know youre not gonna want to admit it, but Dave, youre hurtin ...
Nah, Im fine ...
Rey Mysterio:
Dave, these people know youre hurtin, Teddy Long knows youre hurtin, I know youre hurtin, and most important, Mark Henry knows youre hurtin.
Hang on ... whats Mark Henry gotta do with this?
Rey Mysterio:
Im jus sayin, that odds are man, Orton, an especially, theyre gonna go out there are target you, theyre gonna try to soften you up, so if you want me to take the brunt of the work ...
Rey, trust me, I got this. Tonight, when we go out there, its not gonna be about
, and its not gonna be about
... its gonna be about
, okay man? Were in this together.
The two look at each other, then engage in a manhug, sharing a bit of bromance.
Rey Mysterio:
Aright, man. Ill see out there later tonight.
You know it.
Mysterio now leaves the locker-room, leaving Batista to smile and continue to tie his laces as we cut away to ringside to hear the sound of the bell ringing.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it is for the Cruiserweight Championship of the world!
The crowd gives a reasonably lukewarm reaction as
Jamie Noble
walks out onto the stage and down the ramp, looking all business with a big opportunity in front of him. The Pitbull pays no attention to the fans still as he climbs up into the ring, not even bothering to pose to them, rather deciding to bounce up and down on the spot.
Michael Cole:
Last Sunday night at the Royal Rumble, Kid Kash somehow managed to survive facing all of the cruiserweights in one match and retain his Cruiserweight Championship. SmackDown! General Manager Teddy Long was seemingly not satisfied with that result following Kashs repulsive attack on Juventud a few weeks before the Rumble, so here we have yet another title match before us tonight.
And what a match its gonna be too. Jamie Noble, this kids one tough son of a gun, and if anyone gonna match aggression with Kid Kash, its gonna be Jamie Noble.
Tony Chimel:
Introducing first the challenger, from Hanover, West Virginia, weighing 202 lbs, Jamie Noble!
The crowd give some very respectable heat as the current king of the cruiserweight division, the
Cruiserweight Champion, Kid Kash
makes his way out, arrogantly holding his hands up, title slung over his shoulder. Despite having his second title defence in just five days, Kash looks as arrogant and casual as ever as he makes his way down the ramp and climbs up into the ring, parading around with his title.
Michael Cole:
You would think that having to defend his title yet again, Kid Kash would be taking things a little more serious, but Kash looks cockier than ever right now.
And he may come to regret that. He aint in there with an easybeat. Thats Jamie Noble on the other side of the ring.
Tony Chimel:
And his opponent, from Johnson City, Tennessee, weighing 202 lbs, he is the Cruiserweight Champion, Kid Kash!
Match Four
Cruiserweight Championship
Singles Match:
Jamie Noble
Cruiserweight Champion
Kid Kash
Despite this obviously being a very important match, Kid Kash continues to show his signature arrogance at the very beginning of this match, chewing his gum obnoxiously in Jamie Nobles face ... BUT NOBLE SLAPS HIM, SENDING THE GUM FLYING! Kash looks shocked, only for Noble to reaffirm his seriousness by suddenly hammering away on Kash with a series of rights. Noble is able to keep this aggression up for a short time, before Kash wisely takes advantage by playing possum in the corner, allowing Noble to charge in at him aggressively, only for Kash to stick his boot right up into the jaw of Noble. Kash then quickly follows up by heading up to the top rope and coming off with a missile dropkick that hits Noble on the button, sending him down. From here it looks like smooth sailing for the Cruiserweight Champion, who, despite a mini resurgence from Noble after Kash played it up to the crowd, is able to keep control of the match. This leads Kash to believe he has Noble finished, as he goes for the Dead Level ... but Noble slips out and lands behind Kash, then pushes him off to the ropes and nails him with a single leg dropkick, sending both men down.
Both men rise back to their feet, and its Noble who wins the fist exchange, throwing some heavy right hands, before whipping him off to the ropes, then meeting him with a hard reverse elbow on the rebound. Kash gets back to his feet holding his jaw, though hes soon taken back down as Noble hits a clothesline. Kash again rushes back to his feet, with Noble able to push him back against the ropes, then try to send him off to the opposite ropes, only for Kash to reverse ... and Noble comes back and sends Kash flipping over with a headscissors takedown for a two count. Showing his tenacity, Noble immediately nails a headbutt on the rising Kash, dazing him, before scoring with a few big rights and Irish whipping the champ off into the corner. Not looking to give Kash any time to recover, Noble charges in after him ... and hits a corner clothesline! Noble backs away, leaving Kash to fall into a seated position ... BEFORE CHARGING IN AND HITTING A KICK RIGHT TO THE FACE OF KASH! The crowd are popping big as Noble pulls Kash out of the corner, thinking he has it done ... BUT KASH KICKS OUT AT TWO! Noble looks slightly frustrated, glancing at the referee for a moment, before getting back up and signalling that the match is as good as done.
Slowly, Kash gets back to his feet ... AND NOBLE SCOOPS KASH UP ONTO HIS SHOULDER IN A FIREMANS CARRY ... BUT KASH SLIPS OUT AND HITS A BIG NECKBREAKER! Getting back up, Kash looks at Noble down, before charging across to the corner ... DOUBLE JUMP MOONSAULT! The crowd boo as Kash smiles, not yet covering Noble, instead waiting on him to start to get up ... KICK TO THE TEMPLE ... DEAD LEVEL! Kash makes the cover on the lifeless Noble and gains the three count, retaining his title.
(and still C
ruiserweight Champion
: Kid Kash
Tony Chimel:
Here is your winner, and still Cruiserweight Champion, Kid Kash!
The crowd boos as Kid Kash gets back to his feet and is handed his Cruiserweight Title, which he raises in the air in jubilation.
Michael Cole:
Jamie Noble put up a good folk, but partner, Kid Kash proved just why he is the top cruiserweight here on Friday nights, at least with Juventud still out of commission.
Thats right. Like him or hate him, you cant deny that Kash is one of the greatest cruiserweights weve ever seen here on Friday nights.
We see Kash looking up into a camera (which is up on the apron) and holding his Cruiserweight Title up, yelling Is that all yave got, Teddy? before smiling. From that, we now cut away backstage to see
Brent Albright & Jillian Hall
quickly packing their bags in the locker-room of The Cabinet, possibly looking to escape from the arena and as such, the clutches of The Boogeyman. The two grab their stuff and look set to leave, heading for the door ... where they see
John Bradshaw Layfield
John Bradshaw Layfield:
What in
the hell
do you think the two of you are doin?
Brent Albright:
We were just leavin.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
What do ya mean youre leaving? Are you tryin to make me look bad? Huh? Is that what youre tryin to do?
Brent Albright:
No, but ...
John Bradshaw Layfield:
There aint no buts about it. You listen to me, son, because everything you do, everything you say, as your leader ... as your
it affects me. You do somethin good, then great, I look good. However, if you do somethin bad, like runnin from The Boogeyman, then
look bad, and I dont like lookin bad. Did you ever see me runnin from The Boogeyman?
Brent Albright:
Didnt you hire me cause you didnt wanna deal with The Boogeyman?
John Bradshaw Layfield:
What did you just say? Are you sayin I ran away from The Boogeyman? Are you sayin that Im scared of The Boogeyman? I am scared of
, freak or not.
JBL breathes heavily, obviously pissed.
John Bradshaw Layfield:
Just you watch ... Im about to show you how to make an impact.
JBL smiles sadistically, then turns on his heal and leaves the room, leaving us to head off to a break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to see a vignette, which is accompanied by the sound of This Fire Burns by Killswitch Engage. We see images of a mystery man performing some of his in-ring moves (running knee/bulldog combo, urange/anaconda vise combo and the GTS, along with some big kicks).
Its time for a new breed of wrestler.
The moves continue.
A breed of competitors. A breed that realises that things like luck, are for losers.
We now cut away to see a close-up of the mans arms, which are covered by tattoos.
A breed of competitor which understands just what wrestling is all about.
The left bicep is featured.
I dont drink.
The right bicep.
I dont smoke.
The man is now shown holding up his knuckles, which spell out the words DRUG FREE.
And I dont do drugs.
His stomach is now shown.
Im straight edge, and my only addiction ... is competition.
The mans face is now shown, where we now get a close-up on his long, black hair, and a confident smile, with a snakebite piercing his lip.
My name is CM Punk ... and I am coming to Friday Night SmackDown!.
We then see the words CM Punk above what looks to be an animated Pepsi logo, before the video ends.
Were now at ringside, where we hear ...
The crowd gives decent heat as
walks out, ready for his battle with The Deadman, shillelagh in hand. The all business Irishman swiftly makes his way down to the ring, before waiting in it for his foe, still holding his shillelagh up.
Michael Cole:
An exciting young superstar coming to Friday Night SmackDown! in CM Punk, but ladies and gentlemen, what were about to witness isnt about youth. It is about the return of The Deadman, as The Undertaker makes his first appearance in a SmackDown! ring for the year 2006.
And Finlay looks ready. We heard him earlier when he told Taker hed bring the fight, and Im inclined to believe Finlay. Hes one tough S.O.B, so if anyones gonna bring the fight to Taker, its Finlay.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Belfast, Northern Ireland, weighing 225 lbs, Finlay!
The crowd reacts with a pop that can only be described as massive from the moment the music begins. Soon enough the cheers only grow louder as
The Undertaker
walks out onto the stage in his classic attire, surrounded by smoke. The Deadman slowly makes his way down to the ring, looking right at Finlay as he does so, before climbing up the steps and into the ring, removing his hat and jacket he does so.
Michael Cole:
This man, this Deadman The Undertaker last Sunday night made it to the final four of the Royal Rumble, and tonight he makes his bone-chilling return to the SmackDown! ring, competing for the first time on Friday nights since 2005.
And from the moment that gong is heard, you can just feel the presence of The Deadman. Theres nothin like it man ... freaky.
Tony Chimel:
His opponent, from Death Valley, weighing 295 lbs, The Undertaker!
Match Five
Singles Match:
The Undertaker
The crowd is right into this match as they rally behind their hero, The Undertaker right from the get-go. Taker doesnt let them down in the early moments as Finlay at first tries to evade Taker, before instead going at him with a big right when cornered, showing hes ready to fight, only for Taker to overwhelm Finlay with a flurry of rights, much to the excitement of Michael Cole at ringside. Taker keeps the control going for a brief period, even hitting one of his bigger moves in old school, before Finlay finally gets back by ducking under a big boot attempt when against the ropes, leaving Taker to be hung up on the top rope. Finlay climbs out to the apron and nails Taker with a headbutt, before pulling the cover of the apron out and dragging The Phenom down into it, leaving him in a defenceless position. From there, The Fighting Irishman just out and out assaults The Deadman, throwing fists, kicks and knees his way until the referee finally intervenes. Finlay isnt done using the outside environment to his advantage though, as he then pulls Taker out and whips him into the steel steps with a thud, asserting his ascendency.
Finlay continues to stay on top of The Undertaker for a short while longer, showing that hes not scared of The Undertaker by hammering away in classic Finlay fashion. A scare for the Irishman comes when Taker starts to get up through the kicks to the midsection and grabs Finlay by the throat, only for Finlay to hammer away at the head of Taker with some rights, stunning him, prompting Finlay to think hes weathered the storm as he runs off to the ropes ... then gets taken down with a big boot! Despite sending Finlay down, Taker is unable to capitalise, as he instead staggers over to the ropes and leans on them to try to regather himself. Slowly but surely, Taker is able to recuperate, meeting a recovered and charging Finlay with a quick series of right hands, sending the Irishman reeling. Taker then hits a big uppercut, sending Finlay all of the way back against the ropes, before trying to send him off with an Irish whip, only for the Irishman to reverse. Taker springs back, ducking a clothesline from Finlay, before bouncing off the opposite ropes and nailing his foe with a flying clothesline! Finlay gets back up, immediately receiving a kick to the midsection, before whipping into the corner and then squashed with a corner clothesline! Taker is far from done as he whips Finlay across the ring, then repeats the dose, squashing Finlay again and scooping him up and nailing the snake eyes/running big boot combo for a two count. Immediately looking to follow up, The Phenom gets back to his feet and raises his hand into the air, signalling for the Chokeslam. Finlay, unaware of his possible impending doom, takes his time in getting up, giving his back to Taker, before turning ... AND BEING GRABBED BY THE THROAT ... BUT FINLAY QUICKLY FIGHTS BACK WITH A BARRAGE OF KICKS ... THEN NAILS AN INERTED SAMOAN DROP FOR A TWO COUNT!
Finlay gets up and shakes the cobwebs clear, before refocussing back on Taker, and kicking away at him as he gets up, sending him back into the ropes. Finlay then looks to follow up by charging off to the opposite ropes and sprinting back across the ring ... BUT TAKER TURNS AND CATCHES FINLAY BY THE THROAT ... CHOKESLAM! Taker has Finlay down, as he now calls for the end ...
Winner: The Undertaker
JBL, despite being in a suit for the most part, obviously isnt done, immediately beginning to stomp away on Taker for impact. While Finlay is gone from the ring, the referee isnt as he begs JBL to leave, but JBL will have none of it, instead lambasting the referee with threats, causing him to leave JBL alone as he now pulls Taker up ... short arm clothesline! JBL has The Undertaker down at his peril, taking the opportunity to undo his cuffs and then mount Taker, laying into him with a vicious sequence of right hands, taking almost all of his rage out on The Deadman, before getting back up and rolling his sleeves up. JBL clearly isnt done as he waits on Taker, telling him, daring him to get up, which Taker ever so slowly does ...
The crowd serenades The Wrestling God with heat as he looks down at the fallen Deadman, before rolling out of the ring, seemingly content with the damage he has caused ...
... But then we hear the sound of steel clashing together ...
The crowd continues to rain heat down upon JBL as he again waits for The Undertaker to get up, which he slowly does ...
JBL now throws the steel chair down and smiles a sinister smile ... as both JBL and us, the viewers, see
gushing from the forehead of The Undertaker. The smile remains on JBLs face as he drops to his knees and grabs Taker by the head, rubbing his hand on the forehead of The Undertaker
literally putting the blood of The Undertaker on his hands, as well as his expensive blue shirt which he wipes it on!
Michael Cole:
Sick ... absolutely ... sick.
We see JBL for awhile longer, still smiling away, before cutting to see a graphic hyping our main event and heading off to a commercial break.
*Commercial Break*
We return from the break to hear ...
The crowd lets off a lot of heat as
Mark Henry
walks out onto the stage, looking as intense and aggressive as always. The Worlds Strongest Man doesnt waste time pandering to the fans, instead walking down the ramp quickly (for him) and climbing up into the ring, where he beats his chest and lets out a primal scream.
Michael Cole:
Next week on SmackDown!, this man, The Worlds Strongest Man Mark Henry will face Batista in a rematch from their Royal Rumble encounter just five nights ago. With Batista already hurting, is this an opportunity, partner, for Henry to further weaken Batista down before their big match next week?
Thats exactly what it is, and you better believe Henry knows it. Mark Henry may be a beast, but hes also a smart wrestler, and you better believe that hes thinking about weakening Batista for next week.
Tony Chimel:
The following contest is a tag team match, and it is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, from Silsbee, Texas, weighing 400 lbs, The Worlds Strongest Man, Mark Henry!
The heat continues as the narcissistic Legend Killer
Randy Orton
walks out onto the top of the ramp and poses in his classic pose as pyro falls from the top of the SmackDown! dome. Once the pyro stops Orton then arrogantly walks down the ramp, raising his arm into the air and pointing to the heavens as he does so before climbing into the ring and posing on the turnbuckle.
Michael Cole:
Randy Orton is another man who now has a guaranteed title shot, following his victory in the Royal Rumble Match last Sunday night. While Orton & Henry will look to work together tonight, who knows, they could possibly be clashing at WrestleMania 22.
Orton & Henry may have a had a lil disagreement earlier, but these two are two of the top stars here on Friday Night SmackDown!. So what if they could be enemies later? They know they have to work together tonight, and thats exactly what theyre gonna do.
Tony Chimel:
His partner, from St Louis, Missouri, weighing 245 lbs, The Legend Killer Randy Orton!
The crowd pops big time as
Rey Mysterio
jumps up from the stage with pyro shooting from under him. Rey enthusiastically walks down the ramp, slapping hands with the fans and embracing the kids who bought his merchandise, before waiting at the foot of the ramp for his partner, knowing better than to get in the ring alone with Orton & Henry.
Michael Cole:
This man Rey Mysterio doesnt have as much riding on this match as the other men involved, but youd be a fool to think that Mysterio doesnt want to prove he can go at this level, especially after what he heard from Mr. Kennedy last Friday night.
Thats right, Cole. Mysterios full of heart, and hes always gonna try to perform at the best level he can, which means hes gonna wanna mix it up with the big boys.
Tony Chimel:
Their opponents, first, from San Diego, California, weighing 175 lbs, Rey Mysterio!
The crowd explodes with a very nice pop as the
World Heavyweight Champion, Batista
makes his way out to the top of the stage. Batista looks in higher spirits now, playing it up to the crowd, although he cant hide that hes injured, as shown by his ribs being taped up. After yelling out to the fans for a short time The Animal sets off his pyro and advances down the ramp, joining his friend and partner, Rey Mysterio, before sliding into the ring and posing with him.
Michael Cole:
Ladies and gentlemen, make no mistake about it; what you are looking at right there is a wounded animal. Batista is as tough as they come, but for him to have his ribs taped up just shows how much damage Henry has down on his physically. Earlier we saw signs that he may just have done damage mentally too, so can Batista overcome this huge obstacle that is Henry not just next week, but first, tonight?
If I were Batista, the last place Id wanna be here tonight was in a match with Mark Henry. I mean, look at him, Cole. Hes obviously hurtin, so to answer your question, I dont know whether Batista can get through Henry tonight, but if he does, hes just gonna have to meet him again next week, and thats bad news for the champ.
Tony Chimel:
His partner, from Washington D.C, weighing 295 lbs, he is the World Heavyweight Champion, Batista!
Main Event
Tag Team Match:
Mark Henry
Randy Orton
Rey Mysterio
World Heavyweight Champion
As Batista told Rey in their conversation earlier, he wasnt ducking anyone, which is exactly what we saw when he elected to star the match against Randy Orton. Despite the injury that Orton instantly targets, starting the match with a kick to the midsection, Batista is able to fight back and take control of Orton, tagging in and out a few times with Mysterio to keep fresh. However, Orton is able to make a tag when Batista scoops him out, with The Legend Killer raking the eyes of The Animal and sliding away to tag in Mark Henry, which actually gains a pop from the crowd who wish to see the two rivals face off. Batista is able to initially keep up with Henry, although The Worlds Strongest Man takes control back as he forces Batista into the corner and starts to hit some big shoulder thrusts, driving his massive shoulders into the injured ribs of the champ. Henry, however, gets greedy, walking back before charging in for a corner spear, only for Batista to sidestep him, leaving Henry to crash into the ringpost, thus allowing Batista to go make a tag. With Henry pulling himself out of the corner, Mysterio charges, nailing The Worlds Strongest Man with some kicks to the hamstring, trying to chop the bigger man down to size. With Henry then doubled over, Mysterio backs off the ropes and nails a dropkick to the side of the head, sending Henry staggering to the ropes, where Randy Orton tags himself in.
Orton and Mysterio actually have a nice exchange for awhile, with Mysterio getting the upper hand, before tagging in Batista, who despite being injured, demands to be allowed to compete. Although Batista hangs for Orton with a moment, the ploy to get involved in the match backfires, as Orton kicks him in the ribs, then starts to lay the shots into his rib section in the corner, doing enough damage to the injured Batista to take a clear ascendancy. Henry & Orton are then able to dominate the World Heavyweight Champion, exploiting the injured ribs of The Animal to keep him sedated, with a comeback looking nigh impossible. However, Batista is finally able to make a comeback when Orton reverts to his usual sleeper hold (although with a bodyscissors to apply pressure to the ribs), with The Animal fighting through the pain and getting back to his feet, before hammering away with Orton on rights, only for Orton to score with a knee lift to the ribs of Tista, halting any and all momentum he had right then and there. Orton & Henry then tag in and out a few more times, before Batista once again begins to make a comeback, this time against the man who will be challenging him for his gold next week in Mark Henry, as, after Henry taunts the crowd, Batista starts to fire off some rights, proving the crowd with some hope, only for Henry to, much like Orton previously did, lift his knee. Henry, however, looks to follow up, backing into the ropes and coming forth at the doubled over Animal ... ONLY FOR BATISTA TO EXPLODE OUT OF THE BLOCKS WITH A SPEAR!
Both men slowly but surely make their ways to their respective corners, looking to make the tag to their partners ... and both do it! Henry is the first to make the tag, allowing Orton to charge across the ring as Mysterio is tagged in ... though Mysterio springboards up into the ring, landing behind Orton! Mysterio then dashes into the ropes and bounces off them, ducking under a wild elbow on the rebound to then bounce back off the ropes he springboarded in from in the first place ... before nailing Orton with a headscissors takedown! Mysterio is full of energy as he gets right back up and runs off to the ropes, before jumping up to the second rope ... and coming back with a crossbody block for a two count! Both men get right back to their feet, with Mysterio immediately kicking Orton in the hamstring, causing him to double over, before running off to the ropes and going for a sunset flip ... but both men roll through ... AND MYSTERIO KICKS ORTON SQUARE IN THE SIDE OF THE HEAD! The crowd explodes as Mysterio falls across Orton and hooks his leg ... but Mark Henry breaks the count up at two! With Batista still out of commission, Henry gets back to his feet and picks Mysterio up, hitting him with some clubbing rights as he does so, before sending Mysterio off with an Irish whip, only for Rey to hold onto the ropes instead of bounce back.
Henry, being the amazingly aggressive superstar that he is, decides then to charge at Mysterio ... but Mysterio low bridges the top rope and sends Henry falling out to the floor! Henry hits the floor with a splat, but he doesnt look to stay down long, rushing back to his feet ... ONLY FOR REY MYSTERIO TO RUN UP THE APRON AND JUMP DOWN ONTO HENRY WITH A SEATED SENTON, TAKING HIM DOWN ON THE FLOOR! Mysterio is full of energy as he climbs back onto the apron, waiting for Orton to get up, before springboarding in over the top of Orton once again and bouncing off the ropes, looking for the wheelbarrow bulldog on the rebound ... BUT ORTON SENDS MYSTERIO BACK DOWN TO HIS FEET AND GRABS HIM AROUND THE NECK ... INVERTED BACKBREAKER! Orton slowly gets back to his feet, clearly still reeling following the onslaught from Mysterio, before dropping back down behind Mysterio, waiting for him ... stalking him. Mysterio, unaware of Ortons presence behind him, slowly starts to fight back up to his feet, before turning ... ORTON HITS THE ... NO, MYSTERIO PUSHES ORTON AWAY ... RIGHT INTO A CLOTHESLINE FROM BATISTA! Batista roars as he gets back to his feet, going towards the ropes to play to the crowd ... only for his leg to be grabbed as Mark Henry trips him up and pulls him from the ring!
The two enemies begin to fight at ringside, leaving Mysterio and Orton in the ring, with the roles now reversed as Mysterio stalks a rising Orton ... before dropkicking him in the back and sending him down throat first across the second rope! The crowd pops big for this, with Mysterio instantly reacting, running off to the ropes ... 619 ... CONNECTS! MYSTERIO SENDS ORTON TUMBLING BACK INTO THE CENTRE OF THE RING! Mysterio now waits for Orton to rise ... but at ringside we hear a thud ... AS MARK HENRY HAS IRISH WHIPPED BATISTA RIB FIRST INTO THE STEEL STEPS! The referee is distracted by this, telling Henry to cut it out at ringside ... BUT MYSTERIO STILL SPRINGBOARDS UP ONTO THE SECOND ROPE ... ONLY TO BE SENT TUMBLING OFF IT ...
The referee has no idea what has happened, turning to see two pained men getting back to their feet in the ring ... AND ORTON INSTANTLY STRIKES WITH THE RKO OUT OF NOWHERE! The crowd give heat as Orton hooks the leg ... and gets the three.
Winners: Mark Henry
Randy Orton
Tony Chimel:
Here are your winners, Mark Henry & Randy Orton!
Orton gets back to his feet, still holding his jaw from the effects of the 619, before having his hand raised by the referee. Mark Henry meanwhile remains at ringside, laughing at the pain of Batista, while Mr. Kennedy backs up the ramp, smiling to himself.
Michael Cole:
We just saw a top quality main event ruined by Ken Kennedy, and for what? Because Rey Mysterio showed him up last week after Kennedy insulted Rey? This is unbelievable.
First of all, Cole, its
Kennedy, and secondly, yeah, Mr. Kennedy did cost Mysterio this match, but just like Mark Henry did last Sunday night, Kennedy has made an impact. He has made a name for himself here tonight.
Michael Cole:
And he has to use Mysterio to do that? Kennedy needs to make a name for himself, not at the expense of Rey Mysterio. Regardless, ladies and gentlemen, next week, we get the rematch, Mark Henry vs. Batista for the second time, World Heavyweight Championship on the line! We saw a preview tonight, so what will we see next week? Good night from Orlando, Florida.
We see Kennedy smiling at the top of the ramp, as we now fade to black ...
February 19th, 2006 | 1st Mariner Arena; Baltimore, Maryland
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text:
Sidney Crosby's health is a public trust. A healthy Mr. Crosby belongs to the fans and aspiring players everywhere. The National Hockey League and the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey club failed to live up to their duty as guardians of that trust, and are now reaping what they sowed: Mr. Crosby will miss the all-star game this weekend (his 10th game out with a concussion), undermining the much publicized event in the United States.
Another Piece of Hockey Brilliance From The Globe & Mail
Posted by Rick on Jan 26, 2011 17:16


text:
1. Paid sick days improve the public health.
Workers without paid sick days are heavily concentrated in jobs that require a high level of interaction with the public — the people who serve and prepare our food, look after our children and care for the elderly. When those workers feel compelled to come to work sick, it's not just their health that's at risk — it's all of us.
- One in eight food service workers reports having come to work sick twice in the last year, with symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea. (Source)
- In nursing homes with paid sick days, patients are 60% less likely to contract infections from the staff. (Source)
- During the H1N1 epidemic, 8 million Americans came to work while infected with the swine flue virus, and infected another 7 million people. (Source)
- According to the Center for Disease Control, out of 21 million 'norovirus' outbreaks (a common food-borne virus) annually, roughly half are caused by ill food workers. (Source 1, Source 2)
2. Paid sick days protect economic security.
For too many families, a child's doctor's appointment means missing out on pay and catching the flu can cost you your job. Especially in these tough economic times, just a few paid sick days a year can provide working families a much needed measure of economic security. No one should have to choose between their job and their family's health.
- Over 400,00 Connecticut employees, mostly low wage workers, lack paid sick days, with the largest concentrations in food service, retail and health care. (Source)
- Nearly one in four workers reports that they have lost a job or were
told they would lose their job if they took time off due to personal or family illness. (Source)
- Half of working moms miss work when a child gets sick. Of these, half lose pay when they take this time off. (Source)
3. Paid sick days are smart business.
By Allowing employees to earn paid sick time, employers increases productivity at the workplace and save money in the long run. Employees who come to work sick are less productive and recover more slowly. They may make costly errors. They're also likely to spread illness to co-workers, which reduces productivity and increases absenteeism. Paid sick days help retain good employees and keep turnover costs low.
- A recent study found the cost to a company of providing paid sick days is just .19% (less than two tenths of one percent) of sales. (Source)
- San Francisco enacted a paid sick days policy in 2007. A recent surveys found that 2/3rds of businesses now support the policy. (Source)
- Presenteeism, (the cost of employees' lower productivity when working sick) costs employers $180 billion annually – considerably more than the cost of absenteeism. (Source)
4. Paid sick days make our healthcare system more efficient and effective.
Paid sick days allow working families to get regular preventive care and early treatment for illnesses. People without paid sick days are more likely to depend on emergency room services, driving up costs for all of us. They're also less likely to receive the kind of preventive care that keeps people healthy, lessens the risk of chronic illness, and keeps healthcare costs down for all of us over the long term.
- Workers without paid sick days are twice as likely to seek medical care in the emergency room because they couldn't get time off from work. (Source)
- 28% of parents of children with asthma have missed at least one medical appointment because they could not get time off work. (Source)
- In 2008, 47,000 'preventable hospitalizations' cost Connecticut $1.2 billion in charges that could have been prevent with timely treatment. (Source)
- Since many workers without paid sick days have HUSKY as their health insurance, the increased cost of their care is born directly by taxpayers.
You can get even more data on the issue of paid sick days in our research section.


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Nonsense Captured: Long-form Edition
I've created this website as a place to write about various topics that are on my mind. Here is where I'll capture the thoughts that get stuck in my head when the mood to write strikes me. Here, my opinion on the matters of politics, religion, music, design philosophy, and life get to rest.
I'll be back shortly after I finish setting things up with some long-form writing for you to read as you desire.


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El Guero
February 16, 2012, 07:55 PM
Mailed in a $50 rebate for my wife for the Rockchucker kit she got me for Christmas. Mailed it a week or two after Thanksgiving, so it's been a solid couple of months and I still haven't seen a check. Anybody else get theirs?