Memorial Random Thoughts

Today is the 30th anniversary of the release of Star Wars. 30 years later, it's still a hit - still defines some people as "nerds" and after release, rerelease, 6 total episodes (name one other movie with 6 installments to do as well.... Police Academy doesn't come close), started a revolution in pop culture that is rarely matched (think of all the references in other movies, tv shows, books... however subtle they may be). One of the things I've enjoyed about Star Wars is it's universal theme of Good vs Evil. If you're up for a good read, check out The Power of Myth which is an interview by Bill Moyers of mythologist expert Joseph Campbell. It talks about how every religion, from the ancient Egyptians, Roman Mythology, to Budhism, Islam, and even Christianity are all founded on the basic concept of Good vs Evil. There are a lot of similar stories or explanations of how the world came to be shared by all the religions and faiths that it truly is amazing when pointed out. I also love the thought that 99+% of the history of humanity has believed in a higher power of some sort....... shows that people are willing to accept that there is only so much a human is capable of and there exists a higher power that has more control over everything...... and I digress - so Star Wars is another example of this with the good guys ultimately winning. Lots of Star Wars specials (making of, etc) on the History Channel this weekend if anyone's interested.

There was one thing that got me worked up last night while reading the web news.... remember the recent St. Louis Cardinals pitcher who passed away? Josh Hancock who died on April 28th, died in a car crash where it was determined that he was drunk at over twice the legal limit, he was speeding, using a cell phone, not wearing a seat belt and there was some Whacky Tobaccy found in the SUV upon investigation..... I personally label him as an "idiot" while I used to feel sorry for the family in their loss. No longer do I feel that way. Josh's father feels that he should make some easy money out of the deal so here's who he is suing (remember - this is the American Way):

• Mike Shannon's Restaurant who served Josh even though he was already drunk. They are the main defendant in the case.
• Eddie's Towing.... the tow truck Josh ran into when he was DRUNK
• Jacob Hargrove... the tow truck driver
• and of course Justin Tolar who owned the stalled car, which was being towed, which was what was hit by Josh WHO WAS DRUNK, SPEEDING, AND ON A CELL PHONE!!!

So the lesson learned of all of this is if your car breaks down, leave it on the interstate and start walking- don't want to get sued! Here's what part of the lawsuit says: The lawsuit claimed Tolar was negligent in allowing his vehicle to reach the point where it stalled on the highway and for failing to move it out of the way of oncoming traffic.

Unbelivable!

Speaking of "Unbelievable".... we have a new coach at Iowa State Football this year, now we need to fire the person responsible for the 2007 schedule! October 13th is Family Weekend vs TEXAS (in Ames). The following weekend is Homecoming vs OKLAHMOA (also in Ames). While I have confidence our team will improve this year over last year (kind of hard not to) - this is not a way to make a team play better. BRING THEM ALL ON!!!!!

And finally - this weekend is the Indianapolis 500. No, this isn't "NASCAR" but rather with Indy Cars. I've never figured out why this is the only Indy Car Race that the general population even bats an eye over. Funny part is that Danica Patrick might be the 2nd best looking female at this year's Indy race!!!!! Check out Milka Duno who qualified (starts 29th) versus Danica's start in 8th. Who are you rooting for?

Have a great weekend!!!

Haiku of the Day -
Two droids and Chewy
But nothing beats Sand People
they yell "AURRRRRRRRRRRR AUR AUR!!!"

Entertainment of the Day - I remember seeing this first some 8 years ago and they're still working on it. It's the Star Wars Ascii webpage.... someone has way too much free time, yes - but still impressive.... or sad, take your pick.

Weblink of the Day - Interesting Star Wars rumors.....