Book Review: “How We Die” by Dr. Sherwin Nuland

This book will prepare each person with the understanding that dying with dignity is all about dying on your own terms according to your own set of values. The process of dying is a personal experience and it is not a universal rule that all must do "whatever is available" to prolong life regardless of the cost to mind, body or soul.

 


Brief Overview

Sherwin Nuland was a doctor, surgeon, author, speaker, teacher, philosopher, husband, and father. His life was quite extraordinary and filled with amazing highs tumultuous lows. Sherwin battled through debilitating depression that was successfully treated in the 1970s by electroshock therapy. Dr. Nuland through his own experiences as a doctor coupled with his own personal experiences with the process of dying, wrote a book that is a must read for every person. It explains in detail the six ways most of us will meet the end of life.


Sherwin Nuland Biography

Sherwin Nuland was born in the Bronx on December 8, 1930 to immigrant Russian Jewish parents. He was raised in an Orthodox Jewish manner but later in life became an agnostic. Sherwin was a graduate of the Bronx High School of Science, New York University and the Yale School of Medicine where he also did his surgical residency. Sherwin's mother died from colon cancer when he was 11 years old and the treatment and kindness shown his mother at such an early age influenced him so much, he decided at a young age o become a doctor to help other people and always remembered the doctor who treated his mother as a pseudo-mentor to him his whole life. Dr. Nuland was married twice and had four children, two from each marriage. He has two daughters and two sons from these marriages. His daughter, Victoria Nuland is the Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs at the United States Department of State.


Sherwin Nuland and his depression

Because of a troubled childhood and a fear and shame relationship with his father, Dr. Nuland suffered severe bouts of depression. These bouts became more severe and so debilitating that in his early 40s, he was institutionalized for more than a year for treatment. Senior staff at the psychiatric hospital recommended a lobotomy but thankfully a young resident psychiatrist interceded and his recommendation for electroshock therapy was the path of treatment that was chosen. After twenty sessions it became clear that the treatment was a success but was he direct cause of the dissolution of his first marriage. Dr. Nuland returned to medical practice and his surgical duties and still had some issues of depression but they were more manageable and had less negative impact on him.
"How We Die"

Written in 1994, Sherwin Nuland took on the medical profession by writing this book challenging the long standing paternalistic role of the physician that lent it self to a less pragmatic philosophy on treating death. The prevailing philosophy was that the doctor was the only one who knew the proper treatment to handle disease and all avenues of treatment would be expended even if they were in fact pointless treatments that exacerbated the suffering of the dying patient. This book arrived at the perfect time as palliative medicine and hospice care was in it's infancy. Dr. Nuland arrived at this philosophy at embracing death watching his brother try every means necessary to beat his terminal colon cancer. The treatment in his case and many people is worse than the disease and robs people of a dignified death.


The "Ah-Ha" moment in the book for me

A particular aspect of the book talked about the psychological make-up of doctors which I found interesting. Dr. Nuland hypothesizes that doctors by nature are high functioning, "type A" intellectuals with massive egos and the unrelenting desire to succeed. They are highly competitive and without that ambition would not have survived and excelled in the competitive and grueling study to become a doctor or a surgeon. He opined that many doctors think of medicine as a battle of wills between the disease and the doctor. And because of their competitive drive and wantonness to succeed will often become apathetic to the patient and their emotional well being and sacrifice that for even the slimmest chance at conquering the disease.


Dr. Nuland's evolution in philosophy on treating terminal patients

Dr. Nuland concludes that life and death are parallel journeys and that a dignified death is preceded by a life of dignity. That people should not blindly follow the advice of the medical establishment but to follow their own set of values regarding quality of life and death. Dr. Nuland realized this when his brother was dying. He did him an injustice by not telling him how dire and hopeless his prognosis was and this lapse in judgment, withholding the severity of his brother's malignancy, caused more harm than good. It gave his brother unrealistic hope when there just was no hope with the universal spreading of the cancer beyond his colon into almost every organ in his abdomen. His brother chose to try an experimental treatment that caused him to become a shell of his former self and die a death that was not in any realm associated with dignity. It was the exact opposite, he did extend his brother's life for a few months, but the cost was so high that his brother and his family suffered more than peacefully succumbing to the ravages of the disease with acceptance and giving closure to his family.


The Cure is sometimes worse than the disease

In summary, I have a new philosophy on life and death after reading this book. I read it many years ago when it first came out and before writing this article, just finished re-reading it as a 50 year old man. This book will be a game changer for me one day in the not-so distant future. It will give me the courage to say no to my doctor if I feel that the quality of my life will be forsaken for a few more miserable months doing anything to "beat" the disease. One thing is for sure, we will all go to our death alone. It is one of the few experiences in life that is a journey you take by yourself. The question is, should the time preceding the inevitable be a time of peace and comfort, or pain, discomfort and sadness trying to grasp at anything to extend life regardless of cost to quality of the final days of life.


Dr. Sherwin Nuland's Legacy

Dr. Nuland died on March 3, 2014. The world is not a better place with his absence and he will be missed but he left us all his legacy. He helped and cured thousands of people in his career and he helped many meet their dignified death. He has also given us all the gift of his philosophy on life and death. It is up to you if you want to listen to his advice. Dr. Nuland would tell you to read his book and then with your own set of values, come to your own working philosophy on what life and death means to you and figure out at what point should death be accepted as the right path to a dignified life.


Sources: The New York Times, NPR , Los Angeles Times, "How We Die"

Lessons for the Novice Internet Content Writer

Writing online comes with many early lessons needing to be learned. The learning curve for some can be tricky and time consuming understanding the differences in writing style, writing level and the way people read online content.

 

Writing for publication on the internet is a totally different experience than writing for other media mediums. Careful thought about how people search for information coupled with strong use of search phrases and article structure will be the keys to reaching and engaging the readers.


Early Lessons I learned writing on the Internet

• Be direct with short, concise sentences.


• The appropriate writing level needed to reach the reader.


• Small blocks of text comprised of one or two thoughts set off by a bold sub-heading.


• The use of action oriented sentence structure rather than passive tenses.


• Thought about search engine popularity when it involves words and phrases.


• The “Golden Triangle” and the importance of front loading major information early in the article to engage and keep the reader.


• The use of referencing to credit for information sourcing.


• The importance of respecting the copyright of photos and information.


• Understanding that when reviewing copy for typos, the eye reads differently online as opposed to print. Get someone to proofread for you if possible.

Be Direct

When writing online, it is imperative to think about time restraints of the reader. Understand that hey want the information delivered without any pomp and circumstance. Writing creatively is fine in novels and short stories but the ability to deliver information in short, concise sentences is important to keeping the reader engaged.


Structure of online content differs than conventional print content

The average internet reader spends as little time as possible devouring information. They tend to read 25% slower than print medium and scan pages on the web rather than reading them. This is the reason that 5 and 6 sentence blocks of information are important with bolded sub headings to keep the reader engaged. The average internet reader reads at a 7^th grade reading level so the use of complicated words or writing styles is adverse to most readers and will result in them finding more “friendly” writing.


Search Engine Optimization

The focus of every writer online needs to focus around how the search engines will receive an article. If an article is filled with typos, too wordy, too many backlinks, the “Search Engine Spiders,” will discredit the importance of the articles content and give I a terrible search ranking.. That will negatively affect future potential readers finding the content. An article that can't be read is like a masterpiece from DaVinci sitting in a storage locker. If no one sees it, the best written article on the planet will be unread and mean nothing to the world.


Words and Phrases needed to be Search Engine friendly

Thinking about how people search for words and phrases is of prime importance and critical to the success of an online writer and how the article ranks on search engines in that category. These key words and phrases need to be included multiple times throughout an article for the “Google Spiders” to index the keywords into a category. Learning this early online lesson will result in more readers engaging with your content and a higher chance of better search engine rankings and other mainstream major websites backlinking to your article.


The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is a term used on the web in the writing community on how the reader scans a web page. It is of extreme importance to understand how people read on their PCs, Mobile phones and Ipads. All of these devices offer different experiences for the user and require the writer to write with the focus on where things are placed on the page in the article. The Golden Triangle rule is keep your most important information on the left side of the page and at the top and funnel the less information down he page. In general, keep locations and dates to the right side of the page.


Proper Referencing and Respecting Copyrights

All information taken or farmed from other places whether it be print, web, television, or radio needs to be referenced in the article. Use of backlinks to that information is critical for credibility and preventing accusations of plagiarism. Respecting copyrights needs to be maintained. Crediting and/or obtaining permission to use content and photographs is common courtesy and also keeps you on the right side of the law.


Proofreading

Nothing reads as poorly as a page full of typos. Poor grammar, bad sentence structure, misspellings and poor punctuation make a reader uncomfortable in accepting the content's credibility and makes them want to just click on another article. Google Spiders also hate typos and misspellings as it influences their decision to classify an article as quality or poor content. The Google Spiders can make or break the success of an article so a thorough proofreading is an important lesson for the online writer to learn as early as possible. Try to get an uninterested third party to proofread the article before submitting for publication.


Let an article sit for a day before publication

It's important to let an article sit before publication. This way, you will return the following day to an article that is “new” to you again and typos that you skimmed past will be blatantly obvious. Also, every proofread leaves us with opportunity to rewrite wordy sentences or choose more search engine optimized words. Proofreading will never cost you anything but a few minutes but catching a few typos and improving he article is worth every second of effort.

Annual Bacon and Brew Classic

The Bacon and Brew Classic takes centerfield on July 26, 2014 at Citi Field and Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas on September 27, 2014 and for a bacon and beer fest. 60,000 people are expected at the yearly event.

Bacon And Brew Classic At Citi Field on July 26, 2014 and at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas on September 27, 2014. The Bacon and Brew Classic is all about tasting craft beers offered by almost 100 of the finest macro and micro brewers in the United States. It is also about the one thing all people love, Bacon. Bacon and beer will be the stars of the evening as the New York Mets are playing the Milwaukee Brewers so the team will be in the brew capital of the country and beer will be the home team at Citi Field in Queens that day and evening. Coincidentally, Houston Astros will be playing the New York Mets on September 27 when the Bacon and Beer Classic rolls into Houston' Minute Maid Park.

The Event

This is a doubleheader event. A day and night game so to speak of beer and bacon versus the great people of New York. Each guest will be able to sample 3 ounce pours of hundreds of craft beers from top breweries. A list of the top breweries can be found here. Sponsoring restaurants will be offering each guest, one bacon inspired treat so it will be a day of suds and pig fat on the home field of the Mets. A list of some of the restaurants can be found here. Live music and demonstrations will highlight the event besides the 80 breweries and restaurants taking part in this food and drink extravaganza.

Judging the bacon and brew

There will be two celebrities judging the bacon treats and the craft beers. They are Adam Poch, aka the “Bacon Minister,” and former Big Brother cast member. Judging alongside Adam will be David “Rev” Ciancio. David is well known in the East Village of New York City being the co-owner of Idle Hands Bar. David also runs one of the top burger blogs called Burger Conquest. Guests will also be able to download an application for heir smartphones that will provide interactive features for the event and also allow them to vote for their favorite brews and bacon treats. All votes will be tabulated at the end of the event and prizes will be awarded to the top restaurants and brewers.

Sponsors of the Event

Cannonball Productions is the event planner but the sponsors are the ones enabling this unique experience. The charity partner for the event is Citymeals on Wheels. D'artagnan meat purveyors is supplying the delicious bacon. Clearchannel Q104.3, iheartradio are the event's media sponsor. Another sponsor of the Bacon and Brew Classic is the Baconeers.

Time of the events

One ticket for each event, either the 12-3PM brunch session or the 7-10PM evening session. Guests can attend one or both sessions, but each ticket is specific to each time. VIP ticket holders will be admitted one hour earlier.

Price

Both day and evening sessions are the same price but there is a two tier pricing level for the event.

General Admission:

Entrance to the event, access to the demonstration and educational sessions and the interactive games. The cost is $59.00 per person and a non-alcoholic, designated driver ticket is $39.00

VIP Admission:

Entrance to the event, all the perks of general admissions PLUS one hour early entrance, exclusive access to the stadium warning tracks and dugouts. VIP exclusive brews and bacon tastings and access to the VIP lounge and cooling areas. Each VIP can also take advantage of exclusive stadium tour and they will receive a VIP souvenir glass. The cost is $129 per person. All tickets are non-refundable but transferable. To purchase tickets, Eventbrite.

Source: Bacon and Brew Classic

Which NBA Team Will Carmelo Anthony Choose in Free Agency?

Carmelo Anthony opts out of final year of contract to test his value in the free agency market. Will he sign for less money and a shorter contract to play for a playoff contender like the Miami Heat, Houston Rockets, Chicago Bulls, the Los Angeles Lakers or re-sign with the New York Knicks.

 
Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks sent a letter to the team by FedEx opting out of his option year of his contract passing on the $23 Million yearly salary. He wants to explore his value in the free agency market. The Knicks have the ability to resign Carmelo to a 5 year $129 Million deal having an advantage on every other team because of the collective bargaining agreement cap limiting the contract offered by other teams to 4 years and $96 Million. Carmelo has expressed interest in staying and signing for less if the team commits to adding better players making them a playoff caliber team.


Where would Carmelo go if he decides to leave the Knicks?

Carmelo has four teams actively and publicly vying for his services and most of the teams would be offering the maximum contract allowed of $96 million over 4 years so it would have to do with depth of talent or change in location for Carmelo Anthony personal benefit to leave the New York Knicks. The teams besides Phil Jackson and the New York Knicks pursuing Carmelo are the Houston Rockets, the Chicago Bulls, the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers.


Odds Carmelo joins the Houston Rockets

Long-shot in my opinion. Carmelo isn't going to like playing in Texas. Houston is a similar team to the New York Knicks and adding Carmelo would just deduct from their chemistry. Houston doesn't need a guy who wants to shoot he ball everytime down he court and disregard defense. He won't make Houston stronger, just more dysfunctional. He would be better off staying in New York and asking the larger and longer contract. Odds he signs with the Rockets is 15-1.


Odds Carmelo joins the Miami Heat

The Miami Heat saw that Dwayne Wade is losing steps and Chris Bosh isn't the answer. With Lebron James entering free agency, Carmelo will focus on what Lebron does before he commits. Lebron is younger and a better player than Carmelo so the watch won't be on Lebron's wallet but rather the question of staying in Miami or leaving. Personally, I see Lebron staying as Miami is his home and his wife and children have a strong base there. No reason to uproot from sunny Florida for some miserable weather, and play for a North or West based team. Lebron has his rings so no necessity for the Championship win anymore. Carmelo MIGHT consider Miami if Lebron stays. If Miami added some three point shooters with Carmelo and Lebron's ability to drive the paint, they would be a tough combination to defend if there was true chemistry and communication between the two players. Odds he signs with Miami is 5-1.


Odds Carmelo joins the Chicago Bulls

Joakim Noah and the Bulls have been courting Carmelo since the All-Star break and talking about how he would instantly make Chicago a serious contender. BlogaBull has been reporting about this speculative Carmelo landing spot. I definitely don't see it happening. Yes, Carmelo instantly transforms the team if everything goes as planned on paper. But everyone knows that Derrick Rose NEVER finishes a season. Look at his record over the last three years. In 2011, he played 39 games, in 2012 he did not play for the entire season and in 2013, he played 10 games. This can't be ignored by Carmelo and why in the world would he leave the Knicks for less money and security. Odds he signs with Chicago in my mind is at 10-1.


Odds Carmelo joins the Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles area is where Carmelo makes his home in the off-season. With Donald Sterling selling the Los Angeles Clippers to Microsoft former CEO Steve Ballmer. There is new competition in town to steal he spotlight from the NBAs #1 franchise. It's time for the Lakers to make an investment in the fans and give them a reason to support the Lakers over the Clippers who surely will have deep pockets to buy the talent to take them to the next level. I positively see Carmelo leaning towards returning to his home state and playing for the Lakers. Would love to see the Lakers make a move and try o get both Lebron James and Carmelo Anthony. That would diffuse the new ownership of the Clippers and keep the Lakers at the top of the list of most valuable NBA franchises. Odds are 2-1 that Carmelo chooses the Lakers.


Odds Carmelo stays with the New York Knicks

I think the odds are very good that Carmelo stays because of the extra year in the contract and the $33 million more over the contract. Carmelo can leverage this free agency period to force Phil Jackson's hand to make room to add another star player. One thing history has taught us about the 7-time NBA All Star is he likes money and is the total dominating factor behind his motivation. Odds are Even Money that Carmelo stays with the Knicks if they commit to improving their player personnel which shouldn't be a stretch since owner James Dolan brought GM Phil Jackson to New York to win and compete against the attention given to the Brooklyn Nets.
Sources: ESPN New York, New York Daily News, Blogabull

Sublimotion is the Most Expensive Restaurant in the World

Would you spend $5,000 for a dinner for two?  The Hard Rock Hotel in Ibiza, Spain and Chef Paco Roncero introduce the world to the most expensive restaurant in the world, Sublimotion. $5,000USD for two people for a three hour gastronomical adventure that will entice all your senses.

 

Would you pay $5000 for dinner at the most expensive restaurant in the world? That restaurant is called Sublimotion and is the brainchild and life's dream of celebrated chef Paco Roncero. It is located on the coast of Spain a the Hard Rock Hotel in Ibiza.

The Experience

This is more than fine dining, it is art. It is an experience that stimulates your five senses. In the private dining area, you are surrounded with ever changing landscapes on the walls coupled with aromatizations, customized mood music, and ever changing use of temperature and humidity to create an atmospheric texture to the space. All of this creates a three hour food theater rather than a dining experience because of the chromatic atmosphere mating beautifully with the 20 courses of molecular gastronomy wonderment.

The Chef

Paco Roncero was born in Madrid in 1969. He is one of the leading chefs in Spain as evidenced by his winning the International Academy of Gastronomy's 2005 L'Avenir Chef Award, The National Academy of Gastronomy's 2005 Award for the best restaurant menu design, and The 2006 National Gastronomy Award bestowed by the Royal Academy of Gastronomy. His restaurant, La Terraza del Casino, was awarded two Michelin Stars and he has earned three suns in the Repsol Guide. Besides Sublimotion, Roncero owns five other restaurants in the world.

The Food

We come for the ambiance but the food has to be absolutely amazing to demand $2250 per person. The food is served at a community table that seats 12. The table is unique in itself as there are images projected on the tabletop and they change throughout the meal as do the colors on the walls as they are choreographed by a technician that is watching for every subtle change of he guests experience or to use color and images to announce something new is about to take place. There are 20 courses of food that will be served with a strong emphasis on molecular gastronomy. Lots of liquid nitrogen used to create foggy deserts and frozen spheres of goodness. One of Roncero's sous chefs explains the dining concept, “The ‘receiver’ is the diner, the dish is the ‘message,’ and the setting is the ‘channel." as written in Business Insider Magazine.

The Summary

When you have $5,000 burning a hole in your pocket and find yourself in Ibiza, you can eat like a scientific food explorer and cross one more thing off your bucket list. Problem with most of these high end food experiences is that they by nature are bound to disappoint because of the build-up and costs.

Las Vegas Getting a National Hockey League Franchise?

Las Vegas is ready to host a professional hockey team on the grounds of the MGM Grand. Jerry Bruckheimer is rumored to be owner of a new team in Las Vegas. Will it be an existing team that relocates or will the NHL be expanding the league?

Las Vegas is rumored to be at the top of the list for a major hockey franchise possibly owned by Hollywood Mogul Jerry Bruckheimer. It will be the first major professional sports franchise in Las Vegas. Las Vegas Wranglers are a professional hockey team in the East Coast Hockey league which is the AA affiliate of the National Hockey League. The Wranglers used to call Orleans Arena their home ice until he Boyd Gaming company refused to renew their lease. The ECHL averaged almost 5k fans per game in 2013-2014 season and Las Vegas could definitely fill the 20-22k seat capacity of a professional hockey franchise if I was located near the Las Vegas Strip.

Why Vegas hasn't has a major professional sports franchise

Las Vegas has never had a major professional sports franchise because of antiquated rule that said that sports gambling and professional sports had no business marrying. The NFL has issued such drastic measures that they refuse to sell advertising promoting Las Vegas tourism during the Super Bowl and has threatened legal action on any hotels holding Super Bowl parties which has been nothing but a veiled threat with plenty of bark but no bite. Numerous obstacles have been the proper location for a major event and the fact that any event would have to compete with the many other attractions and shows Las Vegas has to offer it's visitors.

 

Bet on Las Vegas

Las Vegas has been a proven winner in the entertainment and sports industry. Basketball by UNLV, Professional Boxing and The UFC have all given us enough comparisons to see that a major sport will have no issue in Las Vegas getting their share of the entertainment dollar and attention of the local population as well as the tourists. Some sports are more suited for Las Vegas than others. Baseball could never work because of the sun unless it was an enclosed indoor stadium. Football will be ideal bu it would be a gamble that the NFL could sell out 60k seats every Sunday and sell Personal Seat License. Basketball and Hockey are the sports that would have the easiest time creating sell outs and the average arena in both sports holds at capacity at maximum of 22k fans and as little as 15k in the smaller venues.


Who wants to put a team in Las Vegas

Jerry Bruckheimer has been a longtime fan of the NHL and has deep enough pockets to absorb the initial cost of buying a team or relocating an existing one. The question remains, where in Las Vegas will they play and will it be an expansion team or a new team that rules the Las Vegas Strip. What I would find interesting would be the “away”team record playing in “Sin City” with all the inherent distractions.

 

When and Where

The team probably wouldn't arrive until the earliest the 2016 season and most likely the 2017 season but ground has been broken on the MGM Grand property which would give it an ideal location and an experienced promoter of world class concerts and sporting events.

 

Source: The Hockey News, Kukla's Corner, Fox 5 Vegas

Book Review: The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino

Og Mandino's The Greatest Salesman in the World is a two part book designed to teach success skills to teach perseverance, courage, good habits, keys to productivity, and simplification thru repetitive reinforcement of the 10 ancient scrolls of Egypt.

 

"The Greatest Salesman in the World" by Og Mandino was written in 1968. The story is as fresh and meaningful now as the day it was written. The book is a two part read. One part is told as a story serving as a parable and the second half is the 10 Ancient Scrolls of Egypt.


Part One: The Parable Lesson

Part One is a parable about a young man looking to become successful as a salesman in the times of Christ in the Middle East. The second part of the book explores the relationship between the boy, Hafid and the successful leader of the merchant caravan, Pathros. Hafid's recounts how he became successful because of the Ancient Scrolls and the journey to find enlightenment is told is the final days of his life to a trusted confidant and the new guardian of the Scrolls.


Part Two: The Ancient Scrolls of Egypt

Each scroll is an independent idea teaching success through frugality, good habits, productivity, simplification, empathy, perseverance, courage, truth and modesty. Each scroll has to be read three times per day with the last time being said aloud I is advised that doing this with the each accompanying daily meal time. Each scroll should be read for a 30 day period before advancing to the next, so to cycle the entire ten scrolls, it will take ten months. Each scroll builds upon the last adding another level to the layer of enlightenment.


What about the aspect of salesmanship in the title

I read many reviews of this book and I laugh quite hard when I read the synopsis on Wikipedia, "The Greatest Salesman in the World" is a book, written by Og Mandino, that serves as a guide to a philosophy of salesmanship." That little snippet summarizing the page on Google is such nonsense. It is written obviously by someone that didn't spend ten months or ten minutes reading the book. The term, "Salesman" is a metaphor. It is not to be taken literally and has nothing to do with salesmanship or being the greatest Salesman except for Hafid trying to sell his merchant goods.


It's a self-help book

The book is meant to try and change a person's idea of themselves through repetition and reinforcement. I would love to brag that I spent the full ten months reading the book as the author says to do it. But that would be untrue. I did read the book twice in fact and I did attempt once to do the "read 3x a day" but life gets in the way and to be honest, I am not by nature a true three meals a day guy. But I will guarantee you this, try and follow Og Mandino's steps and you will not forget about the difference between having a mindset of an olive tree as opposed to an onion. Your thoughts regarding yourself and your environment will change, therefore your actions naturally will evolve with your thinking. So, this is a great way to try and change your mindset. It is a great gift for yourself, co-worker or a loved one. It is an extremely short read so there isn't a lot of investment in time if you decide to read straight thru it. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I have.


Sources: The Greatest Salesman in the World, Good Reads, Zen Habits, NZ Wealth Mentor

10 Interesting Facts About Baltimore Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh

John Harbaugh is the Head Coach for the Baltimore Ravens. Here are 10 interesting facts about him.

John Harbaugh who was born on September 23, 1962 in Toledo, Ohio. He is the Head Coach for the Baltimore Ravens and has been coaching in the NFL since 1998. He is the older brother of San Francisco 49ers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh.

10 interesting facts about Baltimore Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh

Facts#1:

John Harbaugh played Cornerback at Miami University in Ohio. His roommate was Brian Pillman, a free agent player signed by the Cincinnati Bengals. His true claim to fame was as a WWE wrestler known as Flyin' Brian and The Yellow Dog.

Facts#2:

John Harbaugh coached at Western Michigan University, University of Pittsburgh, and Morehead State University as a Running back coach, linebacker coach, tight end coach, special teams coach and secondary coach.

Facts#3:

John Harbaugh longest tenure in a college coaching position was at the University of Cincinnati as it's Special Teams coordinator where he stayed from 1989-1996.

Facts#4:

John Harbaugh spent his final year in the college coaching ranks at Indiana University as it's Special Teams coordinator in 1997.

Facts#5:

John Harbaugh first job in the NFL was with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1998. Hired by Head Coach Ray Rhodes to be their Special Teams coordinator, he was one of four coaches kept by Andy Reid when he took over the head coaching position in 1999.

Facts#6:

John Harbaugh in his 9^th year as a Special Teams coach was promoted by Andy Reid to be the defensive back coach which would give John the credibility to be considered for other bonafide coaching jobs in the NFL.

Facts#7:

John Harbaugh became the Head Coach of the Baltimore Ravens in 2008 after Jason Garrett who was the Dallas Cowboy's offensive coordinator declined the job. John harbaugh was hired after New England Head Coach Bill Belichick gave his recommendation to an already impressed GM Ozzie Newsome and team owner, Steve Bisciotti.

Facts#8:

John Harbaugh is one of the few Head Coaches in NFL history who never was a Head coach or an offensive or defensive coordinator prior to landing the Baltimore Ravens Head Coach position.

Facts#9:

John Harbaugh career head coaching record is an impressive 62-34. He has won 9 playoff games which is more than any head coach since 2008. He has the second most wins in the NFL since he started with the Ravens in 2008.

Facts#10:

John Harbaugh faced his brother, Jim Harbaugh's San Francisco 49ers at Super Bowl XLVII. The game was nicknamed, “The Harbowl” and it is the first time two brothers coached opposite each other in the Super Bowl.

Sources: Biography, Baltimore Ravens Team Site, All Pro Dad, Catholic Review, Celebs101, IMDB

10 Interesting Facts About Cincinnati Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis

Marvin Lewis is the Head Coach for the Arizona Cardinals. Here are 10 interesting facts about him.

Marvin Lewis who was born on September 23, 1958 in McDonald, Pennsylvania. He is the Head Coach for the Cincinnati Bengals and has been coaching in the NFL since 1992.

10 interesting facts about Cincinnati Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis

Facts #1:

Marvin Lewis was a walk-on player at Purdue University as a linebacker but because of his play was given a full football scholarship to Idaho State University. He graduated Idaho State with a degree in athletic administration and went years later and got his Masters degree in the same.

Facts #2:

Marvin Lewis is a member of the Idaho State University Hall of Fame since 2001 and was voted the 2012 Idaho State University Alumni of the Year.

Facts #3:

Marvin Lewis spent 10 years in the college ranks coaching at Idaho State University, Long Beach State, University of New Mexico, University of Pittsburgh. He was the linebacker coach at every school.

Facts #4:

Marvin Lewis in 2005 led the Cincinnati Bengals to their first division title as well as their first winning season since 1990.

Facts #5:

Marvin Lewis is behind New England Head Coach Bill Belichick as the second longest tenured coach in the NFL.

Facts #6:

Marvin Lewis was named Coach of the Year by The Associated Press in 2009 after winning the AFC North Championship and finishing the season with a 10-6 record.

Facts #7:

Marvin Lewis has the record for most wins as a Cincinnati Bengals head coach and has lead them to three consecutive playoff appearances since 2011.

Facts #8:

Marvin Lewis first stint in the NFL was with the Pittsburgh Steelers for 4 seasons as their linebacker coach. He was hired in 1996 and spent 6 seasons as the Defensive Coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens. At Baltimore, he excelled to the point that the Ravens demolished the Giants at Super Bowl XXXV by the score, 34-7. The game was an amazing defense showcase by Lewis and the Baltimore defense. The Giants had 16 offensive possessions through the game, they scored once, punted the ball 11 times and were intercepted 4 times.

Facts #9:

Marvin Lewis was hired by the Cincinnati Bengals to be heir head coach on January 14, 2003 becoming the Bengals 9^th head coach in their franchise history. Through his tenure, the Bengals have a 90-85-1 record with three 1^st place AFC North finishes.

Facts #10:

Marvin Lewis has served under NFL coaches: Brian Billick, Bill Cowher, Ted Marchibroda, and Steve Spurrier. Marv Lewis has had 4 assistant coaches become head coaches: Leslie Frazier, Hue Jackson, Jay Gruden and Mike Zimmer. After the 2013 season, Marv lost both his offensive and defensive coordinators when Jay Gruden left to become Washington Redskins head coach and Mike Zimmer left to become the Minnesota Vikings head coach.

Sources: Pro Football Reference, Bengals Team Page, NNDB, Famous Birthdays, NFL, TV Guide, Encyclopedia, Cincy Bengals, EVI

10 Interesting Facts About Houston Texans Head Coach Bill O'Brien

Bill O'Brien is the Head Coach for the Houston Texans. Here are 10 interesting facts about him.

Bill O'Brien who was born on October 23, 1969 in Dorchester, Massachusetts. He is the Head Coach for the Houston Texans and has been coaching in the NFL and college since 1993.

10 interesting facts about Houston Texans Head Coach Bill O'Brien

Facts #1:

Bill O'Brien went to Brown University and played on their football team as a defensive end and linebacker from 1990-1992.

Facts #2:

Bill O'Brien firs coaching job was at his college alma mater, Brown University where in his first two years, he was the Tight End and Inside Linebacker Coach.

Facts #3:

Bill O'Brien was hired by the Georgia Tech and spent 8 season there coaching the running backs, Quarterbacks and in 2001 and 2002 he was the offensive coordinator. During his two years as the offensive assistant at Georgia Tech, their record was 9-4 and 7-6 putting up an average of 31 and 21 points respectively.

Facts #4:

Bill O'Brien left Georgia Tech for a job as the running back coach at the University of Maryland where he stayed for two years coaching RBs Josh Allen and Bruce Perry.

Facts #5:

Bill O'Brien was hired to be the Offensive Coordinator for Duke University in 2005 and spent two years there before being hired to his first job in the NFL for the New England Patriots as an Offensive Assistant. The following year he was promoted to wide receiver coach and that year when OC Josh McDaniels left to become head coach for the Denver Broncos, O'Brien took over play calling duties and QB coach. He was officially named Offensive Coordinator in 2011.

Facts #6:

Bill O'Brien was hired to be Penn State Head Coach in 2012, following the Jerry Sandusky scandal and the retiring of longtime Head coach and Brown Alumni Joe Paterno. O'Brien is the 15^th head football coach for Penn State.

Facts #7:

Bill O'Brien had a great first year at Penn State despite the NCAA sanctions that cost the school

40 scholarships per year. He finished that first year with a record of 8-4.

Facts #8:

Bill O'Brien was awarded the Big Ten Coach of the Year award for winning more games in his freshman year by both the media and his peers. He was named National Coach of the Year by ESPN and was the recipient of the 2012 Paul "Bear" Bryant College Coach of the Year Award.

Facts #9:

Bill O'Brien interviewed in early 2013 for the head coaching positions of the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles but declined both jobs opting to stay at Penn Sate for another year.

Facts #10:

Bill O'Brien was hired to be the Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator of the Houston Texans on January 2, 2014, He replaces Gary Kubiak after the Texans finished 2-14 finishing last place in the NFL. O'Brien proceeded to trade away Starting QB Matt Schaub, signed Tennessee Titans QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and used his #1 2014 NFL draft pick for DE Jadeveon Clowney.

Sources: GO PSU Sports, Patriots Team Page, Battle Red, The New York Times, Penn Live, Brown Alumni Magazine, The Sporting News

3D Printing Technology Needs To Be Regulated Now!!

Why 3D printers will cause an Extinction Level Event unless we regulate the industry immediately.  The 3D printer technology is 30 years old and is able to replicate itself. See how easily this simple invention could cause the end of the world if the technology falls into the wrong hands. In one month, a single 3D printer can replicate itself 1 million times.

 

I explained in my last article why 3D printers were technologically wonderful and benefited mankind with life changing innovative abilities. But as history has taught us, good technology can spawn lethal inventions and cause death and destruction besides innovation and advancement.

History of good turning to bad

We have had many technological advancements that have led to amazing humanitarian benefits. Without getting into a “10 interesting things about....” nonsense article, let's discuss the ultimate discovery that unleashed massive amounts of death and destruction and still today is a threat that can one day lead to an Extinction Level Event and wipe out mankind forever. Yes, I am talking about the “splitting of the atom.”

Splitting the atom

Mankind's greatest accomplishment and most dangerous has been the ability to split the atom. When mankind labored to find a way to harness the power of the universe. It was with clean hands an innocent mind and the motivation was to find a cleaner, more efficient power supply. Clean, affordable energy was the goal, not Nuclear weapons that could annihilate cities and kill millions of innocent people. That was the bad coming from the good. So today, we have Nuclear Power plants all over the world creating energy.

Simple explanation of a Nuclear power plant

A Nuclear power plant is a simple design by nature. Uranium is used to cause a chain reaction, thus producing energy which is turned to steam and thus runs turbines that make electricity. Extremely simple procedure getting usable clean energy. Problem is that using it to kill is just a easy. No one planned to use this technology to murder people. There is always someone that will see an alternate evil use of a good thing, you can rest assured that statement is true to many things.

Be real...How can printing be dangerous?

Before we get into 3D or three dimensional printing let's look at how 2D or two dimensional printing has been used for bad things. Pedophiles copy and print pictures on the internet and disseminate them to like minded perverts. Without the ability to print those pictures, less acts of child molestation would occur. The 2D printer can print propaganda, it can print phony contracts, and it can print counterfeit money devaluing and destabilizing a country's economy. Now let's talk about a really dangerous technology, 3D printing that can actually bring destruction to mankind and start the chain of events leading to an E.L.E., Extinction Level Event.

3D Printers are a serious help to mankind

I didn't really think of the bad side after I hear of scientists using organic material to develop artificial human organs that could one day be used for actual transplant and relieve the suffering of many people and extend their lives. That to me is awesome. But then I read about one invention that got me thinking and it's not the ability to 3D print firearms which it can do, which makes a gun virtually undetectable since it is printed from thermoplastics and can thus be printed by anyone with a $600 machine and $10 worth of thermoplastics per gun printed. There is a much bigger threat.

The Goliath of all threats

The 3D printer can replicate itself. Let that sink in, I'll say it again. The 3D printer can replicate itself. It CAN reproduce.! There is the issue. Think about the ramifications if some evil axis country like North Korea with their slave workforce and despotic leader and just one 3D printer. That's a recipe for danger and disaster.

Cost of one 3D printer which can replicate itself.

Currently it costs $600 to buy 1 RepRap 3D printer that is able to replicate itself. It costs $20 in polymer plastic materials and $150 of electronic parts. That’s a grand total of $770 to print out the first replication, after the first one the cost drops to $170 per replication.

How quick can they reproduce?

It requires 60 hours to do one replication. There are 168 hours in a week, you can replicate almost 3 per week per machine. That isn't counting how fast new technology makes the job quicker just like a laser jet prints faster than an ink-jet printer as technology advances. Anyone starting to get the picture here? If one crazy guy in a warehouse starts with one machine, inside of a week he will have 6. Now think about a lunatic who has the funds to start with 1,000 machines, has the factories to mass assembly the parts and you have a person who has an immense amount of power. If the machine could build a car and a gun, it can build a tank. It would take less than 1 month starting with 1 machine to have 1 million 3D printers.

The 3D printers would replicate exponentially: 1 prints out one in 60 hrs and then in the next 60 hrs, two print out two more to make 4, then in another 60 hrs, 4 make 8, etc. Think about rabbits.

Restraint and legislation

There needs to be a discussion started by the leaders of the world on how this technology can be limited and it's use monitored. This is dangerous stuff whenever technology can enable mass production of organic and inorganic objects. I understand and get the argument that so much good can come from it imagine if someone is able to outfit a 3D printer/self replicator with a computer chip. Put it on an island with another robot that could assemble the parts, what would that population look like if both machines had a 30 year lithium battery source, This stuff is straight out of the sci-fi movies, but you would return to an island of millions of 3D printers and robots cause it would figure out that more robots make more 3D printers.

Birth of H.A.L.

Thus H.A.L. Is born. And soon Singularity will occur and mankind cannot compete with artificial intelligence that can reproduce as Vernor Vinge, Professor at the Department of Mathematical Sciences at San Diego State University wrote in his 1993 thesis, “The Coming Technological Singularity: How to Survive in the Post-Human Era..” End of mankind as we know it. One day man will be slave to the machine it developed. It is a path that can't be denied.

10 Interesting Facts About Green Bay Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy

Mike McCarthy is the Head Coach for the Green Bay Packers. Here are 10 interesting facts about him.

Mike McCarthy who was born on November 10, 1963 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is the Head Coach for the Green Bay Packers and been in the NFL since 1998. Mike is one of the few coaches o never play professionally at any level. Mike McCarthy and the Green Bay Packers won the Super Bowl in 2010 but lost the NFC Divisional Championship games the following two years.

10 interesting facts about Green Bay Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy

Facts #1:

Mike McCarthy grew up in Pittsburgh and was the son of a firefighter/police officer who later owned a bar. Mike grew up an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Facts #2:

Mike McCarthy played college football as a Tight End for Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas.

Facts #3:

Mike McCarthy coaching career started as a graduate assistant at Fort Hays State. He subsequently was hired in 1989 by the University of Pittsburgh and worked under coach Paul Hackett as a QB coach for three seasons and as wide receiver coach in his fourth season.

Facts #4:

Mike McCarthy in the off-season during his early days coaching, worked on the road crew of the Pennsylvania Turnpike laying and fixing roadway.

Facts #5:

Mike McCarthy was hired in 1993 by the Kansas City Chiefs o be their Quality Control assistant. Promoted after his second season, he served as the QB coach for Elvis Grbac, Rich Gannon and Steve Bono. In 1999, he was hired to be he QB coach for the Green Bay Packers and coached Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre who had his 4^th best season of his career throwing for over 4,000 yards.

Facts #6:

Mike McCarthy was one of the casualties of the Green Packers firing their entire coaching staff following the 1999 season. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints to be their Offensive Coordinator where he spent the next five seasons coaching players like: RB Deuce McAllister and QB Aaron Brooks.

Facts #7:

Mike McCarthy, during his 5 years as the offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints never saw the team's offensive ranking fall below 14^th. His rankings were; 10^th, 13^th, 3^rd, 14^th, and 14^th.

Facts #8:

Mike McCarthy not improving in his final year was released by the New Orleans Saints and signed by the San Francisco 49ers to be their offensive coordinator in 2004. Not a great year for McCarthy as the 49ers were repeatedly bitten by the injury bug resulting the 49ers offense being ranked last in the NFL.

Facts #9:

Mike McCarthy was hired to be the Head Coach of the Green Bay Packers on January 8, 2006. Since taking over as head coach, the Green Bay Packers have been 1^st in the NFC North 4 times, 2^nd in the NFC North, 3 times. They have only finished once in 3^rd place in the NFC North.

Facts #10:

Mike McCarthy is third on the list of winning coaches for the Green Bay Packers passing Mike Holmgren in 2013. The only two coaches ahead of him in Packer history are Curly Lambeau and Vince Lombardi.

Sources: Packers, NFL, Pro Football Reference, The New York Times, Baker University

10 Interesting Facts About Washington Redskins Head Coach Jay Gruden

Jay Gruden is the Head Coach for the Washington Redskins. Here are 10 interesting facts about him.

Jay Gruden who was born on March 4, 1967 in Tiffin, Ohio. He is the Head Coach for the Washington Redskins and been in the NFL off and on as a coach since 2002. He is the younger brother of defensive guru and ex-NFL coach Jon Gruden. Jay Gruden was once called the “Michael Jordan of Arena Football.”

10 interesting facts about Washington Redskins Head Coach Jay Gruden

Facts #1:

Jay Gruden played QB for Louisville from 1985-1988. He is in the top 5 of all QBs ever playing there.  Jay finished his career a Louisville passing for 7,024 yards, a 54.5% completion rate, and 44 TDs.

Facts #2:

Jay Gruden led Louisville to a 8-3 winning record in 1988, the first for the Louisville Cardinals in 10 years.

Facts #3:

Jay Gruden never got drafted, but did play on some practice teams for the NFL and the CFL. He took his game to the World League and played two years for the Barcelona Dragons and the Scotland Claymores.

Facts #4:

Jay Gruden found fame and success in the Arena Football League. He led the Tampa Bay Storm to four ArenaBowl Championships and was named the league's MVP in 1992. Jay finished his career playing for the Orlando Predators and retired after the 2003 season. Jay is a member of the Arena Football Hall of Fame.

Facts #5:

Jay Gruden finished his professional football days as a player earning many honors and awards during and after his retirement: League MVP & First Team All-Arena-QB in1992, All-Star Game MVP in 1993, First Team All-Arena-QB (TB) in 1995, AFL's 10th Anniversary Team in 1996, AFL Hall of Fame & All-ArenaBowl Team-QB in 1999, Second Team 15th Team anniversary-QB in 2001, and ranked fourth on the AFL's list of greatest players in 2006.

Facts #6:

Jay Gruden has been coaching in the Arena Football league and the National Football League since retiring as a player. He started with the Nashville Kats in 1997 in the AFL as the offensive coordinator. In 1998 he was hired to be the Head Coach of his former team, the Orlando Predators which he coached for four seasons winning AFL titles in 1998 and 2000. Gruden finished his AFL coaching career with a 93-61 regular game record and 11-7 in the playoffs.

Facts #7:

Jay Gruden in 2011 made the jump to the NFL with a giant chip on his shoulder because he always felt he had .the skills and determination to be an NFL QB. Being hired by Marv Lewis and the Cincinnati Bengals as the Offensive Coordinator would give him his chance to prove everyone wrong. Not feeling ready ye to become a head coach, Jay Gruden signs an extension with the Bengals turning down head coaching job offers from the Jacksonville Jaguars, St. Louis Rams and the Indianapolis Colts.

Facts #8:

Jay Gruden since becoming the Offensive Coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals brought them to the playoffs all three years he has been coaching there. In the 20 years prior o his arrival, the Bengals only made the playoffs twice. The Bengal's record is 30-18 since his arrival.

Facts #9:

Jay Gruden comes from a football family. His father was a college and NFL assistant coach. His brother, Jon was the head coach of the Oakland Raiders and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and now works as an analyst for Monday Night Football and as a program called Jon Gruden's Quarterback Camp.

Facts #10:

Jay Gruden was hired by Dan Snyder and the Washington Redskins on January 9, 2014 to become their Head Coach. Jay finally has arrived.

Sources: Arena Football, Bengals Teamsite, Washington Post, Washington Redskins, Pro Football Talk

10 Interesting Facts About Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Jason Garrett

Jason Garrett is the Head Coach for the Dallas Cowboys. Here are 10 interesting facts about him.

Jason Garrett who was born on March 28, 1966 in Abington, Pennsylvania. He is the Head Coach for the Dallas Cowboys and been in the NFL since 1989 as a player and 2005 as a coach in the NFL. He is the former backup QB for the Dallas Cowboys.

10 interesting facts about Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Jason Garrett

Facts #1:

Jason Garrett wasn't drafted when he entered the NFL as a QB. He was signed as a free agent by the New Orleans Saints.

Facts #2:

Jason Garrett originally went and played for Princeton but when his Dad became the Head Coach of the Columbia University football team, Jason Garrett transferred there. After his father's dreadful 0-10 year in 1985, he resigned as head coach and Jason and his brothers, John and Judd all transferred back o Princeton where Jason goes on to become the starting QB for Princeton.

Facts #3:

Jason Garrett and his old Columbia University roots collide in 1988 when Princeton plays Columbia who is nursing a 44 game losing streak and Jason loses to Columbia allowing them to break the streak. Talk about karma.

Facts #4:

Jason Garrett after two years not playing for the New Orleans Saints finally gets released and he has to take the next two years playing in the World League of American Football. He played for the San Antonio Riders and the Ottawa Rough Riders.

Facts #5:

Jason Garrett in 1993 signed with the Dallas Cowboys as he third string backup for Troy Aikman. Jason was on the 1993 and 1995 teams that won the Super Bowl.

Facts #6:

Jason Garrett played eight seasons with the Dallas Cowboys compiling 2,042 passing yards, 11TDs, 5 INTs and a 56.1% completion rate.

Facts #7:

Jason Garrett best game as a professional QB was on Thanksgiving day in 1994 against the Green Bay Packers leading them on a comeback victory, passing for 311 yards and 2 TDs.

Facts #8:

Jason Garrett started his coaching career in Miami as the Dolphins QB coach in 2005 under Nick Saban.

Facts #9:

In 2007 Jason Garrett was hired by the Dallas Cowboys to be their offensive coordinator. In his first year, he was the main reason why Dallas had the 2^nd ranked offense in the NFL which made him highly qualified to become a head coach. He was offered two head coaching jobs, The Baltimore Ravens and the Atlanta Falcons but decided to remain in Dallas as the offensive coordinator.

Facts #10:

Jason Garrett Jason Garrett was named the interim head coach of the Dallas Cowboys after Wade Phillips was fired. Three months later he was officially named the head coach and since the Phillips firing has a 29-27 win/loss record.

Sources: TV Guide, Dallas News, NFL, All American Speakers, Pro Football Reference