Shrinking S3 E8

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Spoilers

“Depression Diet”

Gaby has to face her own guilt, grief and emotions after Maya’s death. Maya overdosed and the question of whether she did it on purpose was making things tough for Gaby. She was withdrawing from her friends, from Derrick, but not from work. However, when she discovered something she did not know, she decided to take time off.

The episode was powerfully acted by Jessica Williams and she had some really strong scenes with Harrison Ford. The friendship of Paul and Gaby is one of the most original ones on TV and it shines with the writing of this show.

Jimmy has a new first date with Sofi that is not a family remembrance of Jimmy’s dead wife. It turned into a sudden therapy session with Sofi and her ex. It seems like Jimmy and Sofi are doomed to have awkward encounters… or maybe from that kiss at the end… maybe not.

The show also dealt with Brian and Charlie becoming more assertive when it comes to Liz. Of course, this actually came from Liz.

Another great Shrinking episode with some top notch performances as the main storylines continue to move forward. This is episode 8 out of what sounds like 11 for season three.

The Pitt S2 E11

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Spoilers

“5:00 PM”

I found myself yelling “Don’t end there” at my TV as The Pitt went to black screen.

I thought the lead of this week’s episode would be ICE.

Instead, the sudden awakening patient who grabbed Emma, who was just checking his vitals. The patient was a golfer who had been admitted after passing out from drinking too much and, as he held Emma in the headlock, said “What did you do to me?”

Oof. That was rough and the door was closed, keeping the sound away from the busy ER. I hope Emma gets out of this ok.

Now, back to the big event this week… ICE brings in a detainee for medical attention and brings chaos with them. The Pitt has never shied away from the political storytelling, but this one was a big swing. The very presence of the ICE agents sent a ripple effect through the ER and the waiting room as people were just taking off in fear of what could happen.

It was certainly implied that the patient, the little lady with the torn rotator cuff, had that injury because of the ICE agents. Then, when they were trying to take her away (before she got her sling), nurse Jesse (Ned Brower) tried to intervene because the ICE agents were hurting the patient and he wound up on the ground, arrested too.

At first, Robby wanted to get the patient treated and out of the ER quickly to minimize the presence of ICE, but his monologue he delivered to one of the agents showed how on edge he was about the situation. This whole ICE beat played into Robby’s own struggles this year as he let him have it.

It was a tense stretch of time that really colored the episode.

There were other major things that happened. Rosie dies. Ogilvie is facing so many challenges, including a misdiagnosis that led to a patient’s major trauma. A young boy is brought in with severe heat exhaustion, and his mother struggled with the her failure to protect him. Mel is having issues with her sister’s sex life. Then there is a conflict with Langdon and Santos. Robby’s friend gives Robby the reason to stick around after his shift ends.

This was a solid episode with a lot of things happening.

Ready or Not 2: Here I Come

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The original Ready or Not from 2019 was a surprise smash hit featuring a star making turn from Samara Weaving. However, it did not feel like a film that required a sequel. Still, in Hollywood, a successful film, especially a new and original IP, will most likely lead to a new installment. So we get Ready or Not 2: Here I Come.

Ignoring the stupid use of the number 2 in the title (it should only be Ready or Not: Here I Come), this new sequel is a solid continuation on a story which both built on the first film and provided new ground for the sequel.

According to IMDB, “After surviving one deadly game, Grace and her sister Faith must now outrun four rival families competing for a powerful throne – winner takes all.”

The sequel is every bit as gruesome and bloody as the original, with people exploding into pools of blood and sinew all over the place, usually when they are facing Grace and Faith, so the splatter does not miss them.

This film added some star power to the hunters chasing Grace and Faith, including Buffy herself, Sarah Michelle Gellar. The Pitt’s Jack Abbot, Shawn Hatosy is here as Gellar’s character’s brother. Elijah Wood played the lawyer behind the competition for the seat on the council that the hunters were competing for. LOST’s Richard, Nestor Carbonell, is another of the hunters, who turns out to be a piss-poor shot.

Once again, this is a group of Satan worshipers, so if that is something that you do not like in your movies, this one is built around it even more than the original. It can be jarring hearing Elijah Wood say “Hail Satan” several times. Of course, Satan worshipers make for excellent villains.

There is a lot of comedy in the gorefest too, and much of it worked. There were some ridiculous characters among the hunters’ families there for support and backup during the game.

The relationship between Grace and Faith had to work for this film to work, and I will say that it was shaky at times. I only heard about their estrangement, not being shown it, but they did win me over as the film went along. Both Weaving and Kathryn Newton do a great job with their performances, though there are a couple of times in the film that made me feel a little icky about what was going on.

Grace takes a real beating in this film and, like so many other action heroes, she shrugs wounds off as she goes. There needs to be some suspension of disbelief that Grace (and also Faith, to a lesser extent) can keep going despite all the stuff that has happened to her (them). Of course, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis, and other action heroes who are men would push on too, so why couldn’t Samara Weaving?

It is a strong follow up to the original. I do not think it is as good as the first one, but it does not fall into the garbage as many sequels do. Ready or Not 2: Here I Come is a fun time at the theater for fans of horror and good action.

4.2 stars

Project Hail Mary

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I have been looking forward to Project Hail Mary for quite a while. I have heard so many good things about it, and I find Ryan Gosling to be extremely entertaining and a top level actor that it only served to increase my anticipation. I booked my tickets to the IMAX theater at Cinemark and went this morning.

People are right. It is fabulous.

According to IMDB, “Science teacher Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a spaceship light-years from Earth. As his memory returns, he uncovers a mission to stop a mysterious substance killing the sun, and save Earth. An unexpected friendship may be the key.”

The film is utterly gorgeous. It looks unbelievable and the special effects are jaw dropping. There is no doubt that Project Hail Mary is an early Oscar contender for the Best Visual Effects Award. I completely recommend seeing it in IMAX too. The bigger the better.

But the visuals are not the only awesome aspect of the film. Ryan Gosling was spectacular as Ryland Grace. He carried this film with every moment that he was on screen, which was practically the entire thing. We saw both the present and the past with this character and he provided us with an amazingly emotional ride right off into space.

I was surprised how funny this movie was. There was a wonderful use of humor and most everything really hit, comedically. Gosling has great comedic timing and he uses the quips and the moments to truly inform the character. I sure hope the Golden Globes do not put this in the Comedy category like they did with The Martian.

Phil Lord and Christopher Miller directed the film and their brand of sly humor came through brilliantly. Drew Goddard, who had also co-written Cabin in the Woods, wrote the script, adapting it from a novel by Andy Weir of the same name. This crew of creators brought such life to the story that it worked on all levels.

I enjoyed the way the story was told. It started off in the space craft with Ryan Gosling and then it would flashback to times when Gosling’s Ryland Grace was on earth and showed us as the movie progressed how Grace wound up in that ship.

I don’t want to go into spoilers, although a major part of the story has been revealed in trailers. I am still not going to talk about it, but this section was so great and infused this movie with such energy and power.

There were a couple of scenes in space that, I swear, I did not breathe during because it was so intense that I couldn’t stand it. They were done so well and brought that action energy to a film that felt like a slow burn at other times. It all worked together so well.

If you force me to criticize the film, it might be a little long. I think they could have shaved off ten minutes, maybe, but I did not feel the length during the viewing.

In the end, Project Hail Mary was a fantastic film with sci-fi elements that is a true crowd pleaser, filled to the brim with emotion and beautiful imagery. One of the best films of 2026 so far.

5 stars

Daily Countdown: Weird Al Songs #100

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#100

“That Boy Could Dance”

Title: “That Boy Could Dance”

Album: Weird Al Yankovic In 3D

Written: Al Yankovic

Release Date: 1984

Genre: Pop Rock or Power Pop

Style Parody: This is debated by the fans. Some believed that this was a pastiche of the Doobie Brothers while others do not agree.

A fun and energetic song that was an early original for Weird Al. It was not listed on some versions of the In 3D album because of space.

Lyrics

We all used to call him Jimmy the geek
He was a dumb looking, scrawny little four-eyed freak
He never used to hang around with the guys
He’d just sit in the corner
Attracting the flies

He wasn’t much to look at
He never was very bright
But at least there was one thing that he could do alright

That boy could dance
That boy could dance, yeah

He was kind of a jerk
He was kind of a bore
But the women would scream when he walked in the door
There’s one thing I can tell you for sure
That boy could dance

Pickin’ teams, he would always be last
He couldn’t run very far
He couldn’t think very fast
If he was on your side, you’d always lose
That guy had a problem
Even tying his shoes

He never passed his drivers test
He was always afraid of cars
And he had a complexion
That resembled the surface of Mars

But that boy could dance
That boy could dance, yeah

Well, his hair was a mess
And his clothes didn’t fit
He smelled pretty bad
And he drooled just a bit
But you gotta admit
Boy, that boy could dance

Now that boy is much older
He got his own dance studio
He got a teeny bopper fan club
Yeah, he got his own TV show

Now he owns half of Montanna
They all call him “Diamond Jim”
And you know I’d do anything if I could be just like him

‘Cause that boy could dance
That boy could dance
That boy could dance
(Now that boy could dance)
That boy could dance, dance
(Now that boy could dance)

That boy could dance
(Now that boy could dance)
That boy could dance, yeah
(Now that boy could dance)
I said that boy could dance
(Now that boy could dance)

That boy could dance, yeah
(Now that boy could dance)
That boy could dance

Source: Musixmatch

“don’t read the last message”

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      “dont read the last message.”

           Horror story

That message wasn’t meant for her,

 That’s what made it worse.

 At 1:42 AM, Mara’s phone buzzed. She was half asleep, Face buried into her pillow, When the vibration dragged her back to consciousness. She groaned, Fumbling blindly across her night stand until her fingers found the screen. One notification.Unknown number.No name, No picture.Just a message…

Unknown:Don’t read the last message.

Mara blinked at the screen 

“What?….”

Her brain felt slow, foggy with sleep. She checked the time again. 1:42 AM. Wrong number she whispered. She was about to put her phone down, Then paused. There wasn’t a last message..There’s only one. Mara’s thumb hovered over the screen. A weird, Prickly feeling creeped down her arms. Like when you’re being watched. She looked around her room. Dark, Quiet, Normal.

“ Yeah, ok,” Mara whispered. “ Great prank.”

She locked her phone and went back to bed.Buzz. She froze. Slowly… She picked the phone back up.

Unknown: I said don’t.

Mara’s chest tightened 

“Ok not funny.”

She sat up, her heart beating a little faster.

Mara: Who is this??

The typing bubble appeared instantly. 

Unknown: You weren’t supposed to see that.

Mara’s stomach twisted.

Mara: See what?

A pause. Longer this time..Then

Unknown: The last message.

Her grip tightened.

Mara: THERE IS NO LAST MESSAGE.

Three dots. Typing. Stopping. Typing again.

Unknown: There is.

A cold feeling slid down her spine

Mara: Then send it.

The typing bubbles stayed longer now. Like whoever or whatever was on the other side thinking. Then

Unknown: If you read it, It will know.

“It will know?”

A nervous laugh slipped out. “Ok…Creepy.” 

Mara: Know what

The response came slower this time.

Unknown: It knows you’re here.

Her room suddenly felt smaller 

Mara: I am here

The typing bubbles blinked on and off.

Unknown: Not like that..

Mara swallowed.

Mara: Then what do you mean

A long pause. So long she thought maybe they’d stopped responding. Then

Unknown: It thinks you’re still asleep.

Her heart skipped. Without meaning to, Mara started at her bedroom door. Still closed.Still normal. Right?

Mara: This isn’t funny.

Unknown: I’m not joking. Her fingers hovered across the screen.

Mara: What is “It”.

The typing bubbles appeared.Then it disappeared. Then it appeared again. Finally

Unknown: Don’t ask that.

Mara’s breath came slower this time. More careful. 

Mara: Why not.

A longer pause.

Unknown: Because it might answer.

Something shifted in the room. A sound, Soft. Barely there. From the hallway. Mara turned her head slightly. Silence. Her phone buzzed again.

Unknown: Did you hear that?

Her stomach dropped.

Mara: Hear what

Unknown: Don’t lie

Her chest tightened.

Mara: how do you know where i am

The reply came instantly.

Unknown: Because I’m not where you think I am.

A chill ran through her.

 “Ok, no.” She whispered. “Nope.”

The Unknown person called her and she put on headphones.

She swung her legs off of the bed, standing up.

“Im turning on the lights.”

Unknown: Don’t 

She froze

Mara: Why

The response took even longer.

Unknown: Because it will see you.

Her hand hovered over the light switch. Slowly…She pulled back.

Her heart was pounding now..

“ok.. ok…”  

She backed away from the door…She sat back on the edge of her bed

Mara: What do i do

The typing bubbles flickered 

Unknown: Stay where you are.

Unknown:Don’t make a sound.

Unknown: And whatever happens—

Unknown: Don’t read the last message..

Mara started at the screen. Her body shook with fear.

Mara: You keep saying that there is one but there ISN”T ONE.

Three dots appeared, then her phone screen changed.The chat scrolled up by itself. Mara’s breath caught, because now. There was another message. Above all the rest of the messages. A message she hadn’t seen before.. Sent hours ago

Unknown: It’s behind you

Mara stopped breathing

Her entire body tensed up. Her eyes slowly lifted. The room felt wrong… Way too wrong. Too quiet. Too still. Her phone buzzed again.

Unknown: Don’t turn around.

Her throat tightened

Mara: You said don’t read it.

Unknown: I know

Her hands shook

Mara: Then why is it here

A pause, Then 

Unknown: Because you weren’t

Supposed to wake up. The air in the room felt colder.

Heaver

Like something was pressing down on her

Mara: What happens if I turn around?

The typing bubbles flickered, Stopped, came back

 Unknown: It stops pretending.

Her heart slammed against her ribs. Behind her. Something moved. Not loud. Not fast. Just enough. A shift. Like a weight adjusting, on her bed. Right behind her Tears filled her eyes

“No…” She whispered 

Unknown: Stay still

She nodded, even though no one could see her.

Mara: What is it?

The reply came slower

Unknown: It learned you

Her stomach twisted 

Mara: What does that mean?

The answer took longer 

Long enough for Mara to feel something else. Breathing. Not hers but someone else behind her. Close

Unknown: It knows how you sound

Unknown: How you move

Unknown: How you think

A tear slid down her cheek

Mara: What does it want

Unknown: You

Her chest tightened

“Please…” She whispered

The bed dipping slightly 

 Something leaning closer 

Unknown: Don’t talk

She clenched her mouth closed. Her whole body trembled with fear, Her phone buzzed again 

Unknown: It likes when you talk

  She stopped breathing

Mara: How do i make it go away

A Long Pause then

Unknown: You cant

Her heart sank

Mara: Then what should i do

The response came slowly

Unknown: Pretend you are still asleep

Mara stuttered

Mara: What

Unknown: Lay down

Unknown: Close your eyes

Unknown: Don’t react 

Her hands shook as she laid down. She turned her head slightly.Facing away. Her eyes squeezed shut. Her phone rested on her chest. The screen still glowing

Unknown: Good

Her breathing slowed. Forced, Careful, Behind her, Something shifted again. Then a whisper. Right next to her ear

“ Mara…”

Sounded just like her voice..Her own voice, Closer

“Your awake”

Her fingers curled slightly

“ I can feel you breathing”

Her heart pounded 

“ I know you read it”

Tears slipped quietly down from her face

“ You shouldn’t have read it”.

The bed creaked. Weight shifting

Right above her now, Hovering

“ I liked it better when you didn’t know”

Her chest tightened

Unknown: It’s trying to get you to react

The whisper grew softer

“ Just turn your head”

Her eye twitched

“ Just a little”

She almost stopped breathing

“ I want to see your face”

Unknown: Don’t 

Silence. Long. Heavy.Then, A soft laugh. From right behind her ear

“ Your not as fun as the others

Her stomach dropped, Others?

Unknown: Don’t ask

Her heart was racing faster

“ I wonder how long you can pretend”
The weight shifted again

Then 

Gone

The bed lifted.

The air felt lighter

But she didn’t move

Didn’t open her eyes 

Didn’t breathe any differently 

Minutes passed 

Or hours

She didn’t know

Her phone buzzed

Unknown: It left

Mara stayed still

Unknown: You can move now

Slowly

She opened her eyes

The room was empty

Normal

Like nothing happened

her chest rose slightly 

She sat up

Her whole body shaking

Mara: Is it gone

A long pause

Then

Unknown: No

Her heart stopped

Mara: What do you mean

The typing bubbles appeared one last time

Unknown: It is where i am 

Her stomach dropped 

Mara: Where are you?

The reply came almost instantly 

Unknown: Look at the last message

Her breath caught

Her thumb shook as she scrolled upThe very first message. The

one she thought started at all, But now, It was different 

Unknown: Don’t read the last message

Below it, A new message

One she didn’t see before 

Sent just second ago

From her own number 

Mara: Its behind you

Her blood ran cold because she didn’t send that

And slowly

Very slowly

She felt it again

Right behind her

Breathing

Waiting

And this time there was no one left to text.

Mara looked around for something, Anything, She needed to get out of there.

She looked around and found a candle

The monster went up into flames, Then somehow transformed into a human and chased mara down the steps.

While mara was running she saw her mother lifeless on the floor as well as her brother and step-father. 

She ran outside but the door was locked but she took out a hair pin and picked the lock. The monster took out a lighter and grabbed mara’s arm, The monster then held the lighter under mara’s arm and watched it burn a little, Mara was screaming in pain hoping someone could hear her, Mara got the chance to run and almost made it, Almost.. Mara ran as blood and pain shot from her arm. The monster started running faster and grabbed her by the collar. The monster then threw her into a fence and Mara went down hard causing her eyes to swell closed. Neighbors then heard screaming from Mara and called 911, Mara could barely keep her eyes open. The monster then hid in the bushes and ran. The monster then found a car at a gas station and fled. Para medics showed up and took mara to the hospital.

“ She needs to go into surgery immediately.” Said the doctor. 

“ But sir! She needs to be on life support.” Said a nurse

“ I don’t care, get the operating table ready right now.” Said the doctor.

“ But Doctor…-.” Said the nurse.

“ Did I Stutter? Go get her on the table.” 

‘ yes sir.” said the doctor.

“The operation went well, but…” Said the doctor.

“ What do you mean but..” Said Mara’s sister. 

“ Well is she ok?” said Amber

“ Yes but she lost half of her memories, Like about her family or friends or etc but she still knows how to do most functions like talking, eating and sleep. The point is she doesn’t remember you.” said the doctor.

“ Oh, well can I see her.” Said amber

“ Yes of course.” Said the doctor

Amber walked in and saw Mara’s body with many fractures and many broken bones. Amber started crying uncontrollably. 

“ Don’t worry mara, I will find out who did this to you and they will pay for this.” Said Amber.

Mara then woke up and got startled by Amber. A few weeks later she was allowed to leave the hospital and Amber took her home.

Amber showed Mara her room and left for work. Mara went to the living room and turned on the T.V news channel. 

“ A new murders happened this morning. The killer ran and left the body with many bruises and cuts. The cuts almost look like axe marks. Goodbye and stay safe.” Said the news anchor.

“ woah.. That’s like a lot of people have been killed this week.” Said mara.

“ Wait, what if it’s amber? Haha no way she’s my sister. What if she isn’t. She didn’t have any ID or verification, and neither did I. I’m overthinking this.” though Mara.
Amber then walked through the door covered in what looked like blood. 

“ Amber, Are you covered in blood?” Said mara.

“Shoot she saw.” Amber whispered so only she could hear. 

Amber then took out a knife and tried stabbing mara but missed. Mara then ran out the door with her phone and called 911. Mara then hid in the bushes and amber passed her. The police then showed up and was amber covered in blood and arrested her.

The police then transferred Mara to child services and then she got introduced to a new home.

                                           Part 2

Years later mara had visions of the monster grabbing her arm, she then lifts up her shirt sleeve and looks at the life lasting scar.

Mara didn’t sleep that night

The phone sat on her desk, Screen dark but it felt like it was watching her

She turned it off three times already. Each time she powered it back on, the same message was still there at the top of the chat. Unknown: You weren’t supposed to read that

At 3:14 a.m, the phone vibrated again. Mara froze under her blanket. Another notification, Slowly she reached out and picked up her phone. 

Unknown: Now it knows you did.

Her chest tightened. Her room was silent except for the ticking of the cheap clock on the wall. 

“ Knows what” She whispered to her self

The typing dots appeared. Three gray dots. They blinked. Then it disappeared. Another message.

Unknown: Look behind you

Maras heart slammed against her ribs

“Nope..” She said immediately, “Forcing a laugh that sounded so fake even to her own ears.”

“Not doing that, I barely made it out last time.”

She tossed the phone onto the desk and rolled over to face the wall. But the silence behind her felt wrong. Heavy. Like something was standing there. Waiting. The phone buzzed again. Again. Again. Finally she grabbed her phone. 

Unknown: You didn’t look.

Unknown: Thats good.

Her stomach twisted

“ Good?” She muttered 

The typing bubbles returned. 

Unknown: Because if you had…It would have seen you.

Mara sat up

“ What would have seen me?” She typed.

  The reply came instantly.

Unknown: The thing in your messages 

Her fingers hovered over the keyboard

“Thats not funny.” She typed back

Three dots appeared, but before the next message arrived, Something else happened. Her phone camera turned on. The screen showed a live video feed of her room but the angle was wrong. The camera wasn’t facing her phone, it was pointing at her. Mara’s blood went cold. The video showed her sitting on her bed holding her phone, staring at the screen, and behind her Something moved. A tall shadow slid across the wall. Mara spun around. 

“ Nothing..? I could have sworn I saw something.” Mara whispered to herself.

 The room was empty. When she turned back to the phone, the shadow was closer now. Standing directly behind her, but she couldn’t see anything in the real room. Her hands shook with fear. she whispered “What is this.”

The reply came instantly. 

Unknown: You read the last message

Unknown: That opened the chat

“ What chat?’’ She typed

Unknown: The one between worlds.

Mara stared at the screen 

“This is a prank.” 

Unknown: I wish it was

Another message appeared 

Unknown: you need to stop responding

The she got goosebumps even though the room was warm.

“ Why?” 

They typing bubbles flickered longer this time. Finally. 

Unknown: Every message you send lets it get closer

Her throat tightened

Mara looked at the live video feed again. The shadow behind her had shape now. Too tall. Its head almost touching the ceiling, its arms were long and crooked, Like branches, And it was leaning toward her, 

“ But if i stop texting, what will happen?” she typed.

A new message appeared, but it wasn’t from him, It was from herself. 

Mara: Don’t read the last message. 

“ There is NO LAST MESSAGE.

Just then her phone scrolled up to this message she didnt see before, But just then she looked back at the video feed and the monster was gone, She look behind her and saw it but it was too late. She was gone

The Underdog does the Unthinkable

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The Underdog does the Unthinkable

It all comes down to this. An entire season of drama, controversy, and excitement has all led to this very moment. Let’s give you a full rundown of all the contenders for the championship and the ones who came up just short. First off it’s the points leader heading into today’s race Lane Moody. He has come on strong late in the season and looks to try to win his first championship in his second full time season at the top level. Then in second. He was the regular season champion and has been consistent through the post season so far it’s Will Plymouth. His consistency is undeniable and while he doesn’t win often he will certainly be a major contender today. Then it’s the young superstar who continues to ruffle feathers of his competitors. Crew Remcheck has been the star of the show in most of the races this season but not always for the best reasons. He has been known to be very aggressive and certainly has not garnered many friends from his fellow competitors but the fans absolutely love him and if he were to win it would be the biggest party anyone has ever seen. And finally the last driver in mathematical contention to win the championship today, Roger van Goshen. While still far from a potential first championship he is still in contention as we head into today’s season finale. The veteran who is planning to retire in the coming years has been oh so close so many times to a championship but circumstances each time have kept him from the biggest prize in racing. He looks today to change that narrative and win his first ever championship. Well now you know the contenders today let’s take a look at some of the other drivers that just missed out this season.

First is Jamie Knockerhill, he has had an unexpected standout season but a lackluster run last week at vegeblanc speedway leaves him out of contention for a championship but let’s not forget the impressive season he has had. Knockerhill has gone from being a backmarker driver in previous season to being a frontrunner and this season has won more races than anybody else. It will be interesting to see if he can carry this momentum into next season because nobody was expecting this kind of run from him. And last but not least of our drivers that made the chase for the championship this season is Bart Westerly. Bart is a driver that has notoriously struggled with funding his whole career and has ran with small race teams. But he has always shown to have the natural talent and abilities to outrun his equipment and run very well in cars that should be nowhere near where he is able to bring them. So when a couple seasons ago he got a once in a lifetime opportunity to drive for one of the best teams in the series in Becklestone Racing that was something he obviously couldn’t pass up. And while it took him some time to get used to running for a good team once he got the hang of things he took off and assented himself to a consistent chase caliber driver and once again made the postseason this year and while finishing last among the chase drivers is not what he wanted this is certainly a good year to build on and he hopes to have a strong run to finish out the season.

And now the venue for today’s championship race. The Jackson Mitchelton Memorial Raceway. A highly respected track named after a highly respected racer who unfortunately died at the track 30 years ago. The track is 1.5 miles in length and has many many lanes for the drivers to run which is something the drivers love. One caveat to today’s races though is that the tires are expected to wear very fast so it will be a race where the drivers that can manage their stints the best will have the best finishes today. 

Practice has now gotten underway and here are some notes for today’s race. There are 32 cars that are here today which is a full field for the season finale so that is nice to see. The race will be 350 laps with stages being 80, 110, and 160 laps for the final stage. The drivers will get 1 lap of qualifying and the race will begin at 3:00 eastern time. 

The one and only practice session for this weekend’s race has concluded and let’s take a look at the top 5 times. The quickest time in practice goes to Seth Gallow who had a great mock qualifying run with a 29.715 Then in second was one of the championship hopefuls Crew Remcheck who has been the star of the season so far. He put down a 29.801 Then in 3rd on the timing sheets is Keelan Remcheck the younger brother of Crew who is a rookie this year put down a solid 29.875 And one of the other championship contenders Will Plymouth the points leader heading into today’s race ran a quick lap of a 29.912 And rounding out the top 10 for practice is Jamie Knockerhill who is still frustrated to not be in contention for the championship today laid down a 29.930. Now that practice is done we head into qualifying. 

As we head into qualifying let’s give you a run down of the qualifying format. 32 drivers are entered and all of them will make the race. Each driver gets one lap of qualifying and those laps will set the field for today’s 350 lap race. The drivers will go out in reverse finishing order of the last race results. 

With qualifying just now wrapping up let’s take a look at where your championship contenders will start today’s race. Crew Remcheck will lead the field to green today as he had an impressive lap in qualifying of a 28.763 Then the next contender today starts 5th and it’s Will Plymouth the championship leader heading into the race today. Then in 7th it’s the surprise story of the season Lane Moody who has not shown a whole lot of speed in practice but has a solid starting spot for the season finale today. And finally the last of the 4 contenders today for the championship is Roger van Goshen who qualified all the way back in the 21st position and is going to have a lot of work today to make his way to the front but his experience today may bode well because of the tire compound that is expected to wear very fast. With qualifying over all that is left is the race.

Now it is time for the moment you have waited for all season. It’s the season finale from Jackson Mitchelton Memorial Raceway. Before the race starts we have to take care of the pre race festivities. First let’s send it down to the track for the pre-race prayer led by former driver Rando Litchnow. “Let us pray, God we pray today that you keep all the drivers safe on this great day that you have given us to crown a champion. I pray you keep all the drivers safe and that the fans have an amazing race to watch today, Amen”. 

Now that it is closer to race time let’s send it down to the track for the most famous words in motorsports. (PA Announcer) “Here to give the command to fire engines today is Tom Holland”. “What a great day for some lovely racing here and it is such an honor to give the command to fire engines for this championship race so with that being said, DRIVERS START YOUR ENGINES!!!!” (engine noises). (Lead Announcer Lee Saylow) “Now that the engines are fired we are inching ever closer to today’s championship race I am Lee Saylow along with me are my colleagues Sam Rinshack and Jeff Hackley and on pit road today it’s Marie Sousha”, “Before we get to anything else let’s get you updated on who our championship contenders are for today’s race”. “First it is the championship leader heading into today’s race Lane Moody who is one of the favorites today. (Jeff Hackley) “The second of the four contenders today is Will Plymouth. He has been a consistent frontrunner this season but we will see if he is able to find some winning speed today. (Sam Rinshack) “And then we have Crew Remcheck. He has been the star of the show all season and while his driving antics on track has not garnered any friends for him the fans absolutely love him and he is certainly the people’s choice for the championship today”. (Lee Saylow) “And finally we have Roger van Goshen”. “The seasoned veteran of the series is still looking for his first career championship and he feels today is his best opportunity but is certainly on the back foot after a rough qualifying effort. “Now that you know who the contenders are for today’s championship we are going to go to break and when we come back we will get today’s season finale underway.

(Lee Saylow) “We have just one lap until we turn them loose and you can feel the excitement and intensity is growing as the fans cannot wait to get this race underway”. “The pace car dives in for pit road and Crew Remchek leads the field into the start zone and here we go from The Memorial Raceway green flag is in the air and we are underway for the season finale”!!! (Sam Rinshack) “As the drivers head into turn 1 you will see them fan out all over the track but the pole sitter of Remcheck is able to hold them off down the backstretch”. (Jeff Hackley) “As they come to complete number one Crew Remchek leads but he has pressure from behind as his brother Keelan is fast and is looking to battle for the lead”. [The battle for the lead between the brothers rages on for the rest of the stage but it was Keelan who was able to hold off his brother for the stage win]

(Lee Saylow)“The drivers have pitted under the stage break and now we get ready to begin stage 2. Stage 2 will have 110 laps and then it will be the final stage to determine a champion. Let’s give you an update on where the contenders run right now. Crew Remchek leads the race after his pit crew allowed him to get out of pit road first. Then in 3rd is points leader Lane Moody. In 6th is Will Plymouth and struggling today in 20th Roger van Goshen who has struggled today in today’s race and nothing seems to be going his way.” (Is he out of contention? Will he ever win that championship he has been desperate for for so many years?) It’s time to start stage 2!!!

(Jeff Hackley) “The Remchek brothers lead them back to green!!!”  (Sam Rinshack) “AND THERE’S A CRASH THE REMCHEK BROTHERS GET TOGETHER, A HUGE PILEUP TO START STAGE”2!!! (Lee Saylow) “This has huge implications on the championship picture as Will Plymouth has heavy damage and looks to be getting out of his car as well as Jamie Knockerhill, both the Remcheks and Carson Bloom.” (Jeff Hackley) “This will leave only Lane Moody and the underdog Roger van Goshen left to fight it out for a championship”. (He is only one of the two left but there is no way he could actually do it could he? Surely it’s Lane Moody’s championship to lose now right?) 

(Lee Saylow) “Well now we have two contenders remaining and the field has shrunk after a collision to start stage 2 and now the championship fight is between points leader Lane Moody and the veteran still looking for his first championship Roger van Goshen. It certainly looks like the favorite right now is Moody”. (Jeff Hackley) “And the race is back underway as new race leader Jackson Mitchelton Jr. leads the field into turn one and what a sight to see the son of the great Jackson Mitchelton Sr. leading at the track that was named after his father”. 

(Midway through the second stage) (Sam Rinshack) “Look who has made their way into the top 10!! It’s Roger van Goshen racing in hopes of his long awaited first championship”. 

(Lee Saylow) “We have just 10 laps to go in the penultimate stage of the season and Mitchelton Jr. still leads, and it looks like there is a caution on the track……. OH LANE MOODY HAS BLOWN A TIRE AND IS HARD IN THE WALL, THAT LOOKS LIKE IT MAY BE A DAY ENDER and a championship ender as well”. (Jeff Hackley) “His team has chosen to run super low tire pressures all weekend and while it has allowed him to gain some speed for the finale it looks to have come back in the worst way possible to end his championship dreams”. (Sam Rinshack) “This means that Roger van Goshen, if he can survive the race, will win a long awaited first ever championship”. (Surely with all this misfortune it will catch up to Roger and one of the other contenders can steal it away, Surely after all these years he can’t finally win it, or can he? It might just be possible)
 (Lee Saylow) “As the second stage comes to a close under caution Mitchelton Jr. will win the stage and that gets the crowds full support”. 

The drivers get ready to start the final stage and Roger van Goshen is in the perfect position to win his first ever championship but all the doubts are still there and if he gets caught up in any incident Lane Moody still has the points advantage so van Goshen has to have a perfect final stage to seal the deal. 

(Lee Saylow) “The drivers have pitted and are ready to begin the final stage. Jackson Mitchelton Jr. leads and we are green for the final stage of the season!!!” 

(Jeff Hackley) “Oh there is a crash!!! Championship leader Roger van Goshen has spun and it looks like his championship aspirations may be over”.

With van Goshen now out of the race it puts Lane Moody back in the points lead but van Goshen’s team is determined to not get up and get their driver a championship and if they can get the car repaire and back up on track because there was another wreck on the restart after his spin causing 5 cars to retire from the event van Goshen could gain back enough points to win the championship over Moody by one singular points.

(Will the team be able to fix all of the damage? Can he get back on track in time? Will everythign actually work out for him?)……………….

(Lee Saylow) “When we thought it was over and all hope was lost the team never gave up and the battled adversity all season but it finally pays off for Roger van Goshen, HE COMES TO THE LINE AND IS FINALLY A CHAMPION, and Jackson Mitchelton Jr. wins the race”. 

(HE HAS DONE IT!! UNDEBELIVABLE)

Blackwood

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Blackwood

Chapter 1

The Beginning

The royal family of Rosewood longed for children, but for many years they had none. Then at last, they were blessed with twins—a boy and a girl.

The boy was named Adrian Rosewood, and the girl was named Emma Rosewood.

The king and queen were overjoyed. They spoiled their children with love and riches. But as the years passed, Adrian grew rude and selfish, often mistreating the people of Rosewood.

Emma, however, was the complete opposite. She was kind and gentle, always helping the poor and giving from her own allowance. The people of the kingdom adored her.

The king and queen noticed the difference between their children and were proud of Emma.Adrian noticed it too.

And he hated it.Jealousy filled his heart. For years he treated Emma cruelly. Once, he even placed a snake in her bed just to frighten her. But their mother and father did nothing about it they said boys will be boys

When they turned seventeen, everything changed.To strengthen an alliance during a growing threat of war, Emma was arranged to marry Prince Sebastian Blackwood of the Dark Kingdom.

Chapter 2

The Wedding

Emma stood in her chamber, preparing to walk down the aisle to meet her future husband. She wore a beautiful black gown, and her hair was styled neatly in a delicate bun.

Across the palace, Sebastian adjusted his suit and pushed his dark hair back.In only ten minutes, he would be married. Sebastian had loved Emma for years.But Emma did not love him.

Her heart once belonged to Prince James of Silverwood.When they were children, while the other boys practiced sword fighting, James would walk beside her in the gardens and talk with her. He had been her first true friend.

But when Emma confessed her feelings to him, James revealed a painful truth. He had only spent time with her because his father hoped to gain land from Rosewood through her.

When the King of Rosewood refused, James’s father declared war.The war ended with defeat for Silverbrook, and James was imprisoned for years.

Until the day of Emma’s wedding.Just after Emma kissed Sebastian, the grand doors of the hall suddenly burst open.

Standing there was James, covered in dirt, fury burning in his eyes.He rushed forward, gripping what looked like a dagger.Before he could reach Emma, Sebastian struck him hard, knocking him to the ground. Guards quickly grabbed him.The newly married couple hurried into their carriage and left the palace.

Inside the carriage, silence filled the air.Finally, Sebastian spoke quietly.“If you don’t want this… I understand,” he said. “We’ve only just met. This is a lot.”

Chapter 3

The Carriage Ride

The carriage wheels rolled over the stone roads of Rosewood, echoing through the heavy silence.

Emma stared out the window, her wedding veil resting in her lap. The kingdom she had known her entire life slowly disappeared behind her.

Sebastian sat across from her, watching her carefully.“You still love him,” he said quietly.It wasn’t a question.

Emma swallowed.“I don’t know what I feel anymore.”

Sebastian leaned back slightly. “He tried to ruin our wedding.”“He was in prison for years,” Emma whispered. “What do you think that does to someone?”Sebastian’s jaw tightened, though his voice remained calm.“It doesn’t excuse showing up with a blade.”

Silence returned.

After a few minutes, Sebastian spoke more gently.“I never wanted you forced into this marriage. I agreed to the alliance because I thought… maybe one day you might care for me.”

Emma looked at him for the first time since they left the palace.“You’ve loved me for years,” she said softly. “Why?”Sebastian gave a small smile.

“When I visited Rosewood as a child, you were the only one who spoke to me like I was normal. Not like I was the prince of the Dark Kingdom.”

Something in Emma’s heart shifted.Suddenly the carriage jerked to a stop.Voices shouted outside.Sebastian’s calm expression instantly turned alert.

“Stay inside,” he said.Before Emma could answer, the carriage door burst open.

A guard stumbled backward—and behind him stood James.His eyes looked different now.Almost wild.“Emma,” he said quietly. “You’re coming with me.”

Sebastian stepped in front of her.“She’s my wife now.”James glared at him.“Not by choice.”

Emma’s heart pounded.“No!” she shouted. “Go home! You shouldn’t be here!”James looked at her with a strangely gentle expression.

“Come with me, Emma. We can be together like we always wanted.”Emma’s face hardened.“No,” she said firmly. “I love Sebastian. Now go home and leave us alone.”

Sebastian looked surprised. He had never seen her so angry before.They climbed back into the carriage and continued their journey.

Four hours later, they arrived at their new home.The castle stood tall and beautiful in the moonlight, flowers climbing along its stone walls.“It’s beautiful,” Emma whispered.Sebastian looked slightly nervous.

“I had it designed to feel like both of our homes,” he said. “I thought it might help you feel comfortable.”Emma smiled.“It’s perfect,” she said softly.

Chapter 4

Years Together

As the years passed, Emma and Sebastian grew very close.But on December 12, Sebastian seemed strangely angry.Emma tried to talk to him, but he yelled at her to leave.

Emma left the room in tears. She put on her coat and walked outside into the cold night air.She had wanted to tell him something important.She was going to have a baby.

As she walked through the woods, she practiced how she would tell him.Suddenly a branch snapped.Emma turned quickly, but she saw nothing.Another branch cracked.

Fear rushed through her chest.She ran back toward the castle. Just as she reached the door, a voice stopped her.“Emma.”Slowly, she turned around.

James stood behind her, covered in dirt—just like the last time she had seen him.“You need to leave,” Emma said nervously.James smiled slightly.“Don’t you miss me?” he asked. “I was your first love.” Emma shook her head.“Not anymore.”Then James said something that made her blood run cold.“The baby,” he said quietly. “How do you think your husband will react knowing I knew first?”Emma’s eyes widened.“You need to go,” she said. “You can’t be here.”

Chapter 5

Secrets in the Dark

Emma stood frozen as the cold wind moved through the trees.“I told you to leave,” she said.James stepped closer.“Why are you so scared?” he asked softly.Emma’s hand rested on her stomach without thinking.James noticed.“So it’s true,” he said quietly.

Before Emma could respond, the castle doors opened.Sebastian stepped outside.“What’s going on?” he asked.Emma hesitated.Then she told the truth.“It was James.”Sebastian’s face went still.“He came here?”

Emma nodded.“I needed to tell you something,” she whispered.“What is it?”Emma took his hands.“We’re having a baby.”For a moment Sebastian didn’t move.

Then he pulled her into a warm embrace.“We’ll get through everything together,” he said softly. “You, me… and our child.”But far beyond the castle walls, James watched from the forest.“This is only the beginning,” he whispered.

Chapter 6

Shadows Over Blackwood

The next morning snow covered the gardens of Blackwood Castle.Emma stood by the window, her hands resting on her stomach.Behind her, Sebastian entered the room.“You didn’t sleep,” she said.

“Not much.”“I keep thinking about the baby… and James,” he admitted.Emma sighed.“He won’t stop, will he?”

Sebastian shook his head.“I’ve doubled the guards.”Just then a guard arrived with a letter from the border.Sebastian read it slowly.“What is it?” Emma asked.“Three guards were attacked last night.”

Emma’s heart raced.

Were they killed?No. Sebastian looked up.“But they said the man fought like someone who had nothing left to lose.”

They both knew the answer.James was back.

Chapter 7

A Promise in the Snow

Emma stood in Sebastian’s arms as the winter wind howled outside.“I’m scared,” she whispered.

Sebastian gently brushed her hair away.“He won’t take anything from us.”“Promise me something,” Emma said.

“What?”

“Please don’t hurt him.”Sebastian looked surprised.“He attacked our guards.”“I know… but he used to be my friend.”

Sebastian sighed.

“You really are too kind.”He lifted her chin gently.“I will protect you and our child. That comes first.”Emma nodded.

“I promise I won’t kill him,” Sebastian said quietly, “unless he gives me no other choice.”Later that night, in the war council room, Sebastian studied a map with his advisors.

A silver pendant lay on the table.The symbol of Silverbrook was engraved on it.A message was carved into the back.Sebastian read it silently.

“What does it say?” one advisor asked.Sebastian’s eyes darkened.

“It’s a message for me.”“What kind of message?”Sebastian spoke coldly.

“It says…”

He paused.

“Tell Emma I’m coming for what was always mine.”Far away in the frozen forest, James sat beside a small fire.In his hand he held an old ribbon.

Emma’s ribbon.

“She belongs with me,” he muttered.He stood and looked toward the distant lights of Blackwood Castle.

A dangerous smile crossed his face.“They think those walls can protect her.”

He stepped into the darkness.“Let’s see how long that lasts.” I will get her back she is MY love 

Chapter 8

The Baby

Winter had slowly begun to fade from the lands surrounding Blackwood Castle. The snow that once covered the gardens had melted into small shining streams that ran along the stone pathways. Early flowers had begun to push through the earth again, their colors bright against the dark soil.Inside the castle, the halls were peaceful.Emma walked slowly through the castle library, her hand resting gently on her stomach. The tall windows beside her let warm sunlight pour across the polished wooden floor. Dust floated lazily through the golden light.

She had spent most of the morning reading, though she hadn’t truly been paying attention to the pages in front of her. Her mind had been somewhere else entirely.The baby was due very soon.Sebastian had become more protective with each passing week. Guards now stood at nearly every entrance of the castle, and patrols had doubled along the outer walls.James had not appeared again since the night Emma had seen him in the forest.

But none of them believed he was gone.Emma slowly walked between the shelves of books, trying to calm the nervous feeling in her chest. She had never been more excited in her life—but she had also never been more afraid.Suddenly she felt something strange.A sharp pain moved through her stomach.Emma froze.Then another pain followed, stronger than the first.She inhaled sharply and gripped the edge of a nearby table.For a moment she thought it might pass.

But then she felt warm liquid run down her legs.Her eyes widened.“My water…”The pain came again, stronger this time, and Emma gasped.“Help!” she cried out.Her voice echoed through the tall library walls.Footsteps came running down the hallway almost instantly.

The door burst open and Sebastian rushed inside.The moment he saw her, his face went pale.“Emma!”He hurried across the room and caught her just as another contraction made her knees buckle.“My water broke,” Emma whispered breathlessly.

Sebastian didn’t hesitate.Without another word, he carefully lifted her into his arms.“We’re having this baby now,” he said.Emma clutched the front of his shirt as he hurried through the castle corridors.Servants and guards jumped out of the way as the king rushed past them.“Send for the midwife!” Sebastian shouted.“Now!”

The castle erupted into motion.Doors opened.Servants ran down the halls.Someone rang the small bell that called the castle healers.

Sebastian carried Emma into their chamber and gently placed her on the large bed.Emma tried to breathe slowly, but another contraction made her cry out.Sebastian took her hand.“I’m here,” he said softly. “You’re going to be alright.”Emma squeezed his hand tightly.“You better not leave this room,” she warned weakly.Sebastian almost laughed despite the fear racing through him.“I wouldn’t dare.”Moments later the midwife arrived, followed by two castle healers and several attendants carrying warm water and clean cloths.The room quickly filled with quiet but urgent activity.

Candles were lit.Curtains were drawn closed.The midwife gently helped Emma sit up against several pillows.“It’s time,” she said calmly.Emma nodded, though sweat already covered her forehead.Sebastian stayed beside her the entire time.

Hours passed slowly.The sun set outside the windows, and night settled across the castle.Emma cried out again as another wave of pain moved through her body.Sebastian held her hand through every moment.You’re doing amazing,” he told her.Emma glared at him.“If you ever say that again,” she said between breaths, “I might throw something at you.”One of the healers tried to hide a smile.Sebastian squeezed her hand.“Fair enough.”Seven long hours passed before the midwife suddenly spoke.“I can see the baby,” she said.Emma gathered the last of her strength and pushed.The room filled with tense silence.

Then—

A cry.A small, strong cry filled the chamber.The midwife carefully lifted the newborn child and wrapped her in a soft blanket.Sebastian felt his chest tighten as he watched.“A healthy baby girl,” the midwife announced.

Emma let out a long breath of relief.The baby was placed gently into her arms.Emma stared down at the tiny face looking back at her.The child had soft dark hair and bright curious eyes.Emma felt tears fill her own.“She’s beautiful,” she whispered.Sebastian sat beside her, completely speechless.Emma looked up at him.“Do you want to hold her?”Sebastian hesitated for a moment.He had faced battles.He had commanded armies.

But this tiny child somehow made him more nervous than anything else.Carefully, he took the baby into his arms.She looked impossibly small.Sebastian stared down at her, completely amazed.“What’s her name?” the midwife asked.Emma looked at Sebastian.They had discussed names many times before.Sebastian smiled softly.“Stella,” he said.

Emma nodded.“Stella Neal Blackwood.”The room grew quiet as everyone looked at the tiny princess.The first daughter born in generations to unite the Dark Kingdom and the Flower Kingdom.

Years passed quickly.
The castle gardens that Stella once crawled through soon became the place where she ran freely, with laughter echoing through the walls.She grew into a bright and curious child.
Like her mother, Stella was kind and compassionate. She spent hours speaking with the castle servants, listening to their stories and helping in small ways whenever she could.But like her father, she had a fierce temper.
If someone treated others unfairly, Stella never stayed quiet.Once, when a young noble boy mocked a servant girl, Stella had shoved him straight into the fountain. Sebastian had tried to appear stern when he heard about it. But Emma had caught him smiling afterward.

Stella had inherited both of their spirits by the time she reached sixteen, she had grown into a confident young woman. Her dark hair flowed past her shoulders, and her eyes held the same warmth Emma had always carried. But there was also something else in them—strength.the kind that came from being raised by two powerful rulers.On a bright spring afternoon, Stella walked through the castle gardens with someone she trusted more than anyone else—Sindey of Blackwood.Sindey was the daughter of James. Though few people in the kingdom knew it, James had eventually disappeared from the conflict years ago. Rumors said he had wandered far into the northern lands.

But somehow, long after the wars had faded, his daughter had arrived at the kingdom’s borders.Emma had chosen to take her in, despite Sebastian’s hesitation.Sidney of Blackwood had grown up inside Blackwood Castle. She and Stella had been inseparable since childhood.They studied together.
Trained together.
Explored the forests surrounding the castle together.Now they sat beneath a large flowering tree, sunlight shining through the branches above them.Sindey leaned back against the trunk while Stella rested beside her.“You’re quiet today,” Sindey said.Stella looked down at her hands.
“I’ve been thinking.”That sounds dangerous.”Stella laughed slightly, then grew serious again.

“Sindey… can I tell you something?”Sindey turned toward her.
“You can tell me anything.”Stella hesitated. Her heart pounded in her chest.“I think…”
She paused.“I think I’m in love with you.”The words hung in the air between them.For a moment, Sindey said nothing.Then she smiled softly.“I was wondering how long it would take you to figure that out.”Stella blinked.
“You knew?”

Sindey laughed.“You’ve been staring at me like that for three years.”Stella felt her face turn red.“Well… when you say it like that…”Sindey gently took her hand. I like you too,” she said quietly

Daily Countdown: Weird Al Songs

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With the conclusion of TV Show Themes, we start the third Daily Countdown on EYG with one of our absolutely favorite musical artists: EYG Hall of Famer “Weird Al” Yankovic and his Top 100 Songs.

Whether they are a parody of a famous song, a polka mashup, or an original style parody of a band or an artist, Weird Al has been going strong since the late 70s.

I first heard Weird Al on the Dr. Demento weekly radio show, where some of his first songs were being played. I connected with Weird Al immediately and I have been a fan ever since. I have seen Al in concert 5 or 6 times and I would venture to say that he is one of the best concerts I have ever seen.

Starting Saturday, March 21, the Daily Countdown stays demented with the one and only Weird Al Yankovic!

TOP 100 Weird Al Yankovic Songs

#100. “That Boy Could Dance”

#99. “The Hot Rocks Polka”

#98. “Jackson Park Express“

#97. “(This Song’s Just) Six Words Long”

#96. “Craigslist”

#95. “Buy Me A Condo”

#94. “Truck Drivin’ Song”

#93. “Generic Blues“

#92. “Trapped in the Drive-Thru”

#91. “Isle Thing”

#90. “Achy Breaky Song”

#89. “You Don’t Love Me Anymore”

#88. “Mr. Popeil”

#87. “Lame Claim to Fame”

#86. “Polka on 45”

#85.

#84.

#83.

#82.

Daily Countdown: TV Show Themes #1

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#1

The Greatest American Hero

The number one TV Show Theme Song, according to EYG, is the theme from The Greatest American Hero”

Title: “Believe It or Not”

Composed: Mike Post

Lyrics: Stephen Geyer

Performed: Joey Scarbury

This TV Show theme was more than just a TV theme. It was a huge hit on the charts, reaching #2 on the Billboard Top 100.

When compiling this list, I had a hard time deciding what should be at number one. I had several theme songs that I thought could conceivably top the list. However, in the end, I knew that this song from Joey Scarbury would be the one to reach the heights. Figuratively, it was a rough flight to the top, just like it was a rough flight every time Ralph Hinkley took to the skies in his red and black super hero suit. But we always got where we needed to go. “Believe It or Not,” the theme to The Greatest American Hero is #1!

Starting tomorrow, our next Daily Countdown starts with #100 of the Top 100 Weird Al Songs!

EYG Favorite Comic Cover of the Week

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March 19

I am on time this week! YES!

It felt like a lighter week, book wise, but I do have several of the also-rans to get into. I thought there were some really good. Interestingly enough, all cover As this week. No variants.

Also-Rans: Cyclops #2, The Lucky Devils #7, Marc Spector: Moon Knight #2, Absolute Flash #13, Captain America #8, The Mortal Thor #8, Lobo #1, and Leprechaun Horror Comics #1.

Bronze Medalist

The Sentry

Cover art by Alex Maleev

What a cool cover for the new The Sentry series. The shadowy hand that Sentry is looking at is clearly a reference to the Void, which is a clever and awesome image. I also love the colors of the cover, with the bright gold feeling around Sentry with the blackness around it.

Silver Medalist

Dead Teenagers #1

Cover art by Naomi Franq

The new hot book of the week is Oni Press’s Dead Teenagers and I love how we get the images of the teens in the cloak of the Grim Reaper. Of course, I have always loved the black background and the entire image makes this cover pop.

Gold Medalist

The Infernal Hulk #5

Cover art by Nic Klein

You do not usually see this kind of brightness on a comic cover, especially in an Infernal Hulk series. Infernal Hulk looks fabulous on the cover and, despite the colorful cover, there is a fearful feel to this cover.

Daily Countdown: TV Show Themes #2

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#2

All in the Family

Title: “Those Were the Days”

Composed: Charled Strouse

Lyrics: Lee Adams

Performed: Carol O’Connor & Jean Stapleton as Archie and Edith Bunker

End credits: “Remebering You” with lyrics by Carol O’Connor

I have a soft place in my heart for All in the Family. Not only was it hilarious and way before its time, but the main two characters are very much my parents with the volume turned way up. The opening theme was always such a fun way to kick off the show.

Next…. #1….

One Piece S2 E8

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Spoilers

“Worst in the East”

Monkey D. Luffy might be one of the best characters in all of fiction.

I don’t know how you can watch Luffy and not love him. He is such a honorable, heroic, kind-hearted, awesome hero. He is always smiling and laughing and so child-like. He is unlike any character that I can think of.

The battle for Drum Island was the backdrop for the finale of season two. The people of Drum Island against King Wapol and his monsters was an awesome battle. Wapol fighting Luffy was epic. I do not think there was a better representation of the way Luffy is than when he threw himself in front of the pirate flag, taking the whole blast of Wapol’s canon, and, when the smoke cleared, he was there ready to monologue to the King. I found this remarkably inspiring.

Of course, Chopper is joining the crew as the ship’s doctor. The way this crew bonds with each other is such fun and you can see how much they mean to each other.

But again, the magic of the Straw Hats is Luffy. He is the center of this crew and I love how the others look at Luffy.

The episode continued to build the lore as we meet Mr. Zero, aka Sir Crocodile.

I speculated that the trip to Alabaster would be next season, and that is exactly what has happened. I love how the show has taken its time to introduce the character of Chopper and Vivi, and because of that, we love them.

Season two was sensational. It is every bit as great as season one, if not better. I could watch more than just 8 episodes per season. One Piece is such an amazing show and I can’t wait for the third season.

Daily Countdown: TV Show Themes #3

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#3

The Fall Guy

Title: “Unknown Stuntman”

Written: Glen A. Larson, Gail Jensen, and David Somerville.

Performed: Lee Majors

The producers of the show used the theme song to help pitch the show to ABC. There was a new version of the song recorded by Blake Shelton for the recent Fall Guy movie.

This is the final image from the banner to arrive. If you were looking at the banner, you knew this one was coming.

Top Two remaining….