There's a lot going on in the office today, but a few things caught my eye this Wednesday, including:
Bloggerpalooza '08: It's going down this Saturday in Athens. Marvel at the sheer beardiness of Kyle King. Remind Doug Gillett that he is in fact a very big deal. I will be unable to attend due to family commitments, but I shall be personally offended if you don't all crack open a box of Krispy Kremes for me. The Athletic Association website has your handy dandy guide to G-Day right here, and proceeds go to the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Athens, which provides assistance to homeless families in northeast Georgia.
Georgia Tech's incredible disappearing roster: D.J. Donley put his right foot in the Paul Johnson option offense, then pulled his right foot out and shook it all the way to West Lafayette, Indiana. He's transferring to Purdue to become one of 12 to 168 former Charlton County players to leave Folkston for the rust belt. Remember a couple of years ago when we worried that every talented wide receiver in the state of Georgia would be going to Tech and attempting to become "the next Calvin Johnson"? Seems like a long time ago, doesn't it?
You call it plagarism, we call it "thematic blogging": Inside The Sprawl has a takeoff on a takeoff about stuff Red and Black People Like. Most of them are dead on, including our affinity for Chick-Fil-A sandwiches. Especially the ones with bacon. I would add to the list in no particular order . . .
Widespread Panic: Even the most ardent 30-something Gwinnett County Republican will instinctively sway in awkward Anglo grooviness to the sounds of Athens' preeminent jam band. Try it at your next tailgate.
Fraternities and Sororities: The University of Georgia has one of the most historically strong Greek systems in the country. Granted, this is not peculiar to the Classic City, but I insert it because it was a formative part of my college experience. Also because I find it nearly impossible to have a conversation of 7 minutes or longer with any UGA grad without the phrase "were you Greek?" or some synonym thereof being uttered.
Herschel: For the benefit of our out of state readers, try this experiment; the next time you travel through the Peach State drop the given name "Herschel" into any conversation, football-related or otherwise. Remark that Herschel is your role model. Or that Herschel made the best baklava you ever tasted. Or that your grandfather bought a Studebaker from Herschel that your nephew is driving to this day. I guarantee you that no one will ask you "Herschel who?". Ditto for "Erk".
Gymnastics: Yeah, we like to watch the uneven bars. And the floor exercises. You got a problem with that? Our gymnastics team is better than yours and Suzanne Yoculan is one of the most successful collegiate coaches of all time, regardless of sport. In Athens, the aforementioned fraternity crowd actually puts on a dress shirt and tie to go to gymnastics meets. Top that, Northeastern South Dakota A&M!
Red dress slacks: They're practically a requirement with your red and black striped tie and white dress shirt on gameday. Or gymnastics meet days. Especially after they've been washed 30-40 times and taken on a slight pinkish tinge. That shows dedication to the cause, and comfort with your masculinity.
I'm sure I have to have missed a few things. Feel free to let me know what they are in the comments section. Until later . . . Go 'Dawgs!