Yes I will have “MY PICKS” so you can compare your picks to mine. (And Laugh or Cry)I will have A “MASTER BRACKET”, “WHAT IF YOU CHOSE THE HIGH PICKS” for each game. Yes I will have MY PICKS. An “UPSET” will be RED on “ALL HIGH PICKS” Bracket. GREEN indicate HIGH SEED Win. What is a seed? Merely a starting place. Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game. Would lets say were, Michigan St., to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! SEEDING attempts to give a more favored team an easier path to the CHAMPIONSHIP. Seeding should lead to the best 2 teams playing in the final game. However there is always that upset minded team; or the chance that the favored team has a bad game, a stand out player is sick or injured. For more information feel free to go to… https://ftm.coursemateai.com/home 🏀 I tried to pin Artie Fischal into filling out a bracket. The Closest I got was his Final Four. One pick might throw you for a loop. All Number 1 seeds EXCEPT one. That one odd pick is TENNESEE. What do you think about this. Sorry for the mixup on the bracketts. I had them right to start with. BUT when they the NCAA Selection announced the position of the bracketts they had them in a different order, (which is how I posted them). I asked the friends and family if they heard the difference. They all agreed. So I changed my brackett setup. I should have checked how CBS or other sources had them. My fault. (i guess). MASTER [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-MASTER-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS MASTER BRACKETT”] ALL HIGH PICKS [[pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-HIGH-PICKS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS HIGH PICKS BRACKETT”] UPSETS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-UPSETS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS UPSETS BRACKETT”] Please do not loot at my picks! It might make youlaugh or cry? MY PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-MY-PICKS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS MY PICKS BRACKETT”] [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 207
Category: Teens
THE ORIGINS of EIGHT-BALL
[adrotate group=”1″] 🎱 The game of eight-ball emerged around the 1900s in the United States. It evolved from a similar cue sport called pyramid pool, which allowed players to pocket any eight of the fifteen object balls to secure victory. However, two crucial changes transformed pyramid pool into the game we know today: Pocketing the 8-Ball Last: In eight-ball, the ultimate objective is to pocket the 8-ball. Unlike pyramid pool, where any ball could seal the win, eight-ball mandates that the 8-ball must be pocketed last. Half the Object Balls: Each player can only pocket half of the other object balls. This strategic twist adds depth to the game, as players must carefully choose their shots. The Essential Rules Here are the fundamental rules of eight-ball: Equipment: The game is played on a billiard table with six pockets, cue sticks, and a set of sixteen billiard balls (including the cue ball). The object balls consist of: Seven solid-colored balls numbered 1 through 7. Seven striped balls numbered 9 through 15. The black 8-ball. Break Shot: The game begins when the first player or team takes the break shot, striking the cue ball into the racked balls. The table opens up, and the players take turns until a ball is potted. Assigned Groups: After the break, a player is assigned either the group of solid or striped balls based on the first legally pocketed ball. They continue shooting at their assigned group. Clearing the Table: The goal is to legally pocket all the balls from your assigned group. Once a player clears their group, they can aim for the 8-ball. Winning Shot: To win, a player must legally pocket the 8-ball in a “called” pocket (a specific pocket they declare beforehand). Variations and Popularity Eight-ball has numerous regional variations, but it remains the most frequently played discipline of pool. It’s often synonymous with the term “pool” itself. Over time, standardized rules have been established, but competing sets of “official” rules still exist. So next time you’re at the pool hall, chalk up your cue stick, break the rack, and enjoy the timeless game of eight-ball! Remember, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, the magic of eight-ball lies in its simplicity, strategy, and the satisfying clack of balls against the felt. 🎱 Follow this link to see 8 ball international rules: https://www.sqebf.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/International-Eightball-Rules-Revision-2b-Jan-2023-A4-booklet.pdf [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 146
RE: STUDENT ATHLETES GETTING PAID ENDORSEMENTS (NIL)
[adrotate group=”1″] 🏀 🏈 Here is a comparison between the non-scholarship major college student and the high profile student full ride scholarship in one of the top five athletic conferences: Aspect Non-scholarship student Full-ride scholarship student Tuition Has to pay for tuition, which can range from $10,000 to $50,000 per year depending on the school. Does not have to pay for tuition, which is covered by the scholarship. Housing Has to pay for housing, which can cost around $10,000 per year on average. Does not have to pay for housing, which is covered by the scholarship. Books and other expenses Has to pay for books and other expenses, which can add up to $1,000 to $2,000 per year. Does not have to pay for books and other expenses, which are covered by the scholarship. Financial aid May qualify for financial aid, such as grants, loans, or work-study, depending on their financial need and academic performance. May not qualify for financial aid, as the scholarship already covers their full cost of attendance. Academic requirements Has to meet the academic requirements of their major, which may vary depending on the field of study and the school. Has to meet the academic requirements of their scholarship, which may be higher than the minimum standards of the school. Athletic requirements Does not have to participate in any varsity sports, unless they choose to do so as a walk-on Has to participate in a varsity sport, and maintain a high level of performance and commitment Career prospects Has to compete with other graduates for jobs or further education, and may have to deal with student debt Has an advantage in terms of networking, exposure, and recognition, and does not have to worry about student debt By comparison of expenses the Athlete is getting between $22,000-$72,000 a year for playing a sport. (Not all athletes, mostly just Basketball and Football players). Over a 4 year career that totals to $88,000-$288,000. AND no STUDENT DEBT. Not a bad deal. However now they make Thousands on NIL. Some could finish their 4 years as MILLIONAIRES. CONCLUSION: If I had the chance to play a sport I love, get a college degree, and have NO expenses, other than the small things every body has, like dating expenses, an occasional night out. etc. etc. AND NO STUDENT DEBT. I would be happy as a lark. It is reported that Iowas Caitlin Clark has an NIL value of $818,000. Not picking on Ms Clark; she is the one that came up first. What I read is this is more than 120+ NBA players get. 🏈 🏀 Views: 151
HISTORY OF the WOMENS NCAA MARCH BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
[adrotate group=”1″] SELECTION SUNDAY FIRST GAME [wpcdt-countdown id=”15530″] [wpcdt-countdown id=”15537″] (People ask me why I don’t write about the Women’s March Madness. TIME ! I have 4 TVs going watching the men. Then posting the results, no time.) I did ask a friend if he would be willing to help with the womens tournament. He said yes. BUT I remebered his telling me about his Dad taking him to a PACERS game. He told me the Pacers were playing the Jets, and he thought Reggie Miller was a good quarterback. I decided to pass on his help. Thanks anyway. (No not looking for a volunteer outside my circle). SELECTION SUNDAY WILL TELECAST ON ESPN The NCAA women’s basketball tournament is an annual event that determines the national champion of Division I women’s college basketball in the United States. It began in 1982, following the dissolution of the AIAW, which had organized the women’s championship since 1972. The NCAA tournament has grown in popularity and prestige over the years, attracting millions of fans and producing some of the most memorable moments in women’s sports history. The tournament follows a similar format and selection process as the men’s tournament, with 68 teams competing in a single-elimination bracket. The teams are divided into four regions and seeded from 1 to 16, with the four lowest-seeded teams playing in the First Four games to advance to the first round. The regional winners then advance to the Women’s Final Four, where the national semifinals and final are held. The Women’s Final Four is usually scheduled on the same weekend as the men’s Final Four, but in a different host city. The most successful team in the history of the NCAA women’s basketball tournament is Connecticut, which has won 11 titles, including four consecutive championships from 2013 to 2016. The Huskies are coached by Geno Auriemma, who holds the record for the most wins in the tournament with 127. Other notable coaches who have led their teams to multiple titles include Pat Summitt of Tennessee, Tara VanDerveer of Stanford, Kim Mulkey of Baylor, and Muffet McGraw of Notre Dame. The tournament has also featured some of the greatest players in women’s basketball history, such as Cheryl Miller, Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore, Breanna Stewart, and Sabrina Ionescu. Some of the most memorable games in the tournament include the 1991 final between Tennessee and Virginia, which went to overtime and was decided by a buzzer-beater by Dena Head; the 1994 final between North Carolina and Louisiana Tech, which was also decided by a buzzer-beater by Charlotte Smith; the 2006 final between Maryland and Duke, which went to an extra period and was won by a layup by Kristi Toliver; and the 2018 semifinal between Notre Dame and Connecticut, which was won by a last-second shot by Arike Ogunbowale. The most recent champion of the NCAA women’s basketball tournament is LSU, which defeated Iowa 102-85 in the 2023 final in Dallas, Texas. It was the first title for the Tigers and their coach Kim Mulkey, who had previously won three titles with Baylor. The 2023 tournament was also notable for the historic performance of Iowa’s Caitlin Clark*, who averaged 34.2 points per game and became the first player to score 100 points in the first two round, *Iowa’s Caitlin Clark has already, (this season), set a new women’s scoring record, scoring now sits at 3,569 career points, with 15 games to go. (At this writing). [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 139
THE 1950s: A GOLDEN AGE of CHILDREN’S TV SHOWS
‘[adrotate group=”1″] GRAB GRANDPA AND SEE IF HE REMEMBERS THESE The 1950s were a time of great innovation and creativity in the field of children’s television. With the advent of color TV, the rise of animation, and the popularity of puppets, the decade produced some of the most memorable and influential shows for young audiences. In this blog post, we will explore two of the most iconic and interactive shows of the era: The Rootie Kazootie Club and Winky Dink and You. [player id=’15501′] The Rootie Kazootie Club The Rootie Kazootie Club was a show that aired from 1950 to 1954 on NBC and later ABC. It featured the adventures of a boy named Rootie Kazootie, who wore a baseball cap with a large bill and played a magic kazoo. He was accompanied by his dog Woofer, his girlfriend Polka Dottie, and his friend El Squeako Mouse, a Mexican mouse who fought with a cat instead of a bull. The show also had a human host, Todd Russell, who interacted with the puppets and the studio audience of children. The show was created by Steve Carlin and featured the puppetry of Paul Ashley and the voices of Mae Questel and Naomi Lewis. The show was praised for its humor, music, and educational content. One of the main attractions of the show was the “Quiz-a-Rootie”, a segment where children could win prizes by answering simple questions. The show also had a catchy theme song that began with “Who is the boy who is full of zip and joy? He’s Rootie Kazootie!” [player id=’15496′] Winky Dink and You Theme Song Winky Dink and You Winky Dink and You was a show that aired from 1953 to 1957 on CBS. It was hosted by Jack Barry and featured the exploits of a cartoon character named Winky Dink, who had star-shaped hair and plaid pants. He was joined by his dog Woofer and his nemesis, the evil Mr. Bungle. The show was created by Harry Prichett and Ed Wyckoff and featured the animation of Terrytoons. The show was considered the first interactive TV show, as it used a “magic drawing screen” that children could attach to their TV screens and draw on with special crayons. The screen allowed children to help Winky Dink in his adventures by completing connect-the-dots pictures, decoding messages, or creating characters. The screen also protected the TV from scratches and stains. The show was praised by Bill Gates as a pioneer of interactive media and inspired many children to become creative and engaged. Conclusion The Rootie Kazootie Club and Winky Dink and You were two of the most popular and innovative children’s TV shows of the 1950s. They entertained and educated millions of children with their humor, music, animation, and interactivity. They also influenced the development of children’s media and culture for generations to come. These shows are examples of how the 1950s were a golden age of children’s TV shows. ‘[adrotate group=”1″] Views: 813
NBA All-Star Game vs. Daytona 500:
[adrotate group=”1″] [wpcdt-countdown id=”15298″] [wpcdt-countdown id=”15300″] IT’S OFFICIAL !! MOTHER NSTURE WINS. Daytona 500 postponed until 16:00 EST Monday February 19. Will air on FOX Will the Daytona come off without a hitch? OR, will Mother Nature throw the RED flag with heavy rainfall. We will just have to wait and see. 🏀🏁 On February 18, 2024, sports enthusiasts will face a delightful dilemma: choosing between two major events that promise heart-pounding action. Let’s dive into the showdown between the NBA All-Star Game and the Daytona 500. The NBA All-Star Game Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Time: 8:00 PM ET Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse The NBA’s brightest stars will converge in Indianapolis for the 73rd All-Star Game. Expect jaw-dropping dunks, dazzling passes, and fierce competition. LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and other legends will battle it out, representing the Eastern and Western Conferences. But here’s the twist: fans who adore both basketball and high-speed racing face a scheduling conundrum. The Daytona 500 Location: Daytona International Speedway Time: 2:30 PM ET The Daytona 500, NASCAR’s crown jewel, kicks off the ,. Engines roar as drivers navigate 500 miles on the iconic oval track. Rickey Stenhouse, last year’s champion, aims to defend his title. But wait—this race coincides with the NBA All-Star Game! Fans torn between LeBron’s fadeaway jumpers and stock cars hurtling around turns must make a choice. The Fan Dilemma Basketball Lovers: Will you cheer for alley-oops or pit stops? The NBA’s elite showcasing their skills or Daytona’s thunderous horsepower? Speed Aficionados: Do you stick with the Daytona tradition or switch channels to witness slam dunks and three-pointers? Conflict Alert: Imagine a household divided—dad glued to the TV, toggling between LeBron’s triple-double and Blaney’s drafting maneuvers, while mom juggles nachos and chicken wings. Kids? They’re torn between LeBron jerseys and checkered flags. The Verdict Ultimately, it’s a matter of passion. Whether you’re Team Hoops or Team Wheels, February 18, 2024, promises adrenaline-fueled drama. So grab your remote, settle into your favorite spot, and brace for a sports extravaganza. Just remember: you can’t be courtside and trackside simultaneously! Note: If you’re a superfan, consider setting up dual screens or mastering the art of channel surfing. And may the sports gods forgive us for scheduling conflicts! 🏀🏁 Views: 134
NBA 2024 ALL STAR GAME FACTS, HISTORY, PLAYERS
[adrotate group=”1″] [wpcdt-countdown id=”15300″] 🏀The NBA All-Star Game is one of the most anticipated events of the basketball season, where the best players from the Eastern and Western Conferences showcase their skills and compete for bragging rights. The All-Star Game has a rich history that dates back to 1951, when the first game was held at the Boston Garden. Since then, the game has featured many memorable moments, outstanding performances, and records that have amazed fans and players alike. Some of the most outstanding players in the history of the All-Star Game include LeBron James, who holds the record for the most All-Star selections (20), the most All-Star MVP awards (4, tied with Bob Pettit and Kobe Bryant), and the most points scored in All-Star games (426) . Kobe Bryant, who passed away in 2020, is also one of the greatest All-Stars of all time, with 15 selections, 4 MVP awards (one shared with Shaquille O’Neal), and the second-most points scored in All-Star games (119) . Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time, (only by those who ignore all the rules he got away breaking), also had an impressive All-Star resume, with 13 selections, 3 MVP awards, and the third-most points scored in All-Star games (110) . Some of the most remarkable records in the All-Star Game include the most points scored in a single game by Jayson Tatum, who dropped 55 points for Team Giannis in 2023 ; the most rebounds in a single game by Bob Pettit, who grabbed 27 boards for the East in 1962 ; and the most assists in a single game by Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr., who dished out 22 dimes for the West in 1984 . The highest-scoring All-Star Game was in 2017, when the West defeated the East 192-182, with a combined total of 374 points . The lowest-scoring All-Star Game was in 1953, when the East edged the West 79-75, with a combined total of 154 points . The 2024 NBA All-Star Game will be held on February 18, 2024, at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana, the home of the Indiana Pacers . This will be the second time that Indianapolis hosts the All-Star Game, after hosting it in 1985 at the Hoosier Dome . The game will return to the traditional East vs. West format, after six years of using a draft system where the leading vote-getters from each conference selected their own teams . The game will also feature a new twist, where the teams will play for a charity of their choice, and the score will be reset after each quarter, with the final quarter being untimed and having a target score to win. The All-Star Weekend will also include several other events and activities for fans to enjoy, such as the State Farm All-Star Saturday Night, which will feature the Kia Skills Challenge, the Starry 3-Point Contest, the Stephen vs. Sabrina 3-Point Challenge, and the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest ; the Panini Rising Stars, which will showcase the best rookies and sophomores in the league ; the NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T, which will feature a college basketball game between Virginia Union and Winston-Salem State ; and the G League Up Next Game presented by AT&T, which will highlight some of the top talent from the NBA G League . There will also be various concerts, exhibitions, and community events throughout the city . The NBA All-Star Game is a celebration of the game of basketball, the culture of the NBA, and the spirit of the fans. It is a chance to witness the greatness of the past, the present, and the future of the sport, and to have fun and be entertained by the best players in the world. If you are a basketball fan, you don’t want to miss the 2024 NBA All-Star Game and the events surrounding it. It will be an unforgettable experience that you will cherish for a life🏀 [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 144
THE BEGINNINGS of the DAYTONA 500
[adrotate group=”1″] [wpcdt-countdown id=”15298″] 🏁 The Daytona 500 had its inaugural race on February 22, 1959, at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. Here are some key moments from its early years: 1959: Lee Petty, the patriarch of the racing family, clinched victory in the first-ever Daytona 500. In a dramatic finish, he defeated Johnny Beauchamp in a highly unusual manner. The two were lapping Joe Weatherly at the finish line1. 1960: Junior Johnson employed the draft—a little-understood phenomenon at the time—to secure victory. He drove a slower, year-old car but used the draft to his advantage. The field consisted of a whopping 68 cars, making it the largest Daytona 500 lineup in history. Driver with the Most Wins When it comes to Daytona 500 victories, one name stands out: Richard Petty. The legendary driver has an impressive record of seven wins in this prestigious race. His dominance on the track and his iconic No. 43 car have left an indelible mark on Daytona 500 history. Fastest Speed Record In 1980, Buddy Baker achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Daytona 500 at an average speed of 177.602 miles per hour—a record that still stands as the fastest in the race’s history. Baker was also the first driver to break the 200 mph barrier on a closed course. His victory remains a testament to speed and skill on the high banks of Daytona. Fun Trivia Kurt Busch holds the distinction of leading the fewest laps (just one lap) and still winning the Daytona 500 in 2017. Matt Kenseth defied the odds by starting from the 39th position and emerging victorious in 2009. The slowest winning average speed belongs to Junior Johnson, who triumphed in 1960 with an average speed of 124.740 mph. The Daytona 500 continues to captivate fans, drivers, and racing enthusiasts alike. Its rich history and thrilling moments make it a true American racing spectacle. 🏎️💨 Views: 120
VALENTINE’S DAY: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
[adrotate group=”1″]\ Remember to get your sweetie something for Valentine’s Day ! Valentine’s Day, a celebration of love and affection, has a rich history that spans centuries. Let’s embark on a journey through its past and explore how it has evolved into the cherished day we know today. Ancient Origins The origins of Valentine’s Day can be traced back to ancient Rome. It was celebrated as Lupercalia, a fertility festival held in mid-February. During Lupercalia, young men would draw names of women from an urn, and the chosen pairs would be companions for the duration of the festival. The festival also honored Juno, the goddess of marriage and women. Christian Influence The Christianization of Lupercalia led to the association with St. Valentine, a priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage for soldiers. St. Valentine secretly performed marriages for soldiers and their beloveds, leading to his martyrdom on February 14. His acts of love and sacrifice became the foundation for Valentine’s Day. Medieval Courtly Love In the Middle Ages, courtly love poetry flourished. Knights and troubadours composed romantic verses for their ladies. Geoffrey Chaucer’s poem “Parliament of Fowls” mentioned Valentine’s Day as a day for birds to choose their mates. The idea of expressing love through written messages gained popularity. Victorian Era Sentiments The Victorian era saw the rise of elaborate Valentine’s cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and sentimental verses. Lovers exchanged these intricate cards, often expressing their deepest emotions. The tradition of sending valentines became widespread. Modern Celebrations Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated globally. Couples exchange gifts, flowers, and heartfelt messages. It’s not limited to romantic love; friends and family also express their affection. Whether it’s a candlelit dinner, a handwritten note, or a simple hug, the essence remains the same: celebrating love. In the present day, Valentine’s Day transcends borders, cultures, and generations. It’s a reminder to cherish our connections, express gratitude, and celebrate the beautiful tapestry of love that binds us all. Artie Faschal Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️🌹 2of30 Show learn more suggestions Views: 90
SUPER BOWL LVIII RECAP FROM ALLEGIANT STADIUM LAS VEGAS
[adrotate group=”1″]\ 🏈 In a thrilling showdown at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, the Kansas City Chiefs faced off against the San Francisco 49ers. The game was a nail-biter, with both teams leaving it all on the field. KEY STATS FROM THE GAME: Final Score: Kansas City Chiefs 25, San Francisco 49ers 22. Period Scores: Chiefs: 1st Quarter (0), 2nd Quarter (3), 3rd Quarter (10), 4th Quarter (6), 1st OT (6). 49ers: 1st Quarter (0), 2nd Quarter (10), 3rd Quarter (0), 4th Quarter (9), 1st OT (3). SCORING SUMMARY The 49ers’ Jake Moody nailed a 55-yard FG in the 2nd quarter. This gave the 99th overall pick, ROOKIE, the record for longest FG, in SUPER BOWL HISTORY. Which also gives him the longest FG in SUPER BOWL HISTORY, by a ROOKIE. The 49ers’ Juan Jennings caught a 21-yard TD pass in the 2nd quarter. The CHIEFS’l Harrison Butker made successful field goals from 28 and 57 yd FG in the 2nd and 3rd quarters. (This 57 yd FG erased the previous record set by Rookie Jake Moody in the 2nd quarter. HOWEVER I believe the 55 yd FG by the rookie will stand as a record by a Rookie). The Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes connected with Marquez Valdes-Scantling for a 16-yard touchdown in the 3rd quarter. The 49ers’ Brock Purdy found Juan Jennings for a 10 yard TD in the 4th quarter. (You remember Brock Purdy…Mr Irrelevent. He has proved himself to have been grossly overlooked by the rest of the NFL teams during the draft). Both teams traded field goals in overtime, but the CHIEFS secured victory with a 3-yard touchdown by Mecole Hardman. (Side note: Hardman’s full name is Carey Mecole Hardman Jr). GAME STATISTICS: CHIEFS: Total Yards (455), Passing Yards (325), Rushing Yards (130), Turnovers (2). 49ers: Total Yards (382), Passing Yards (272), Rushing Yards (110), Turnovers (2). The 49ers sought revenge after their 2020 Super Bowl loss to the CHIEFS, while the CHIEFS aimed for their third title in five years. In the end, it was the CHIEFS who emerged victorious, solidifying their dynasty status. The SUPER BOWL LVIII was a battle for the ages, and football fans everywhere were treated to an unforgettable spectacle. 🏈 Artie Fschal [adrotate group=”1″]\ Views: 121
