The Official Nate Rowlan Blog

I'm Back after nearly a year of blogging silence! Bam!

2011-07-12T08:06:00.000-07:00

So, a lot has gone down since July of last year. I knew it had been a while since I last blogged, but had no clue that it was 30 July 2010. Anyway, I'm back at it and am going to post up the stuff that I love.
Let's start off with Justice's new single "Civilization." It's rad...I love it. Adidas were smart enough to make it the soundtrack to their "Adidas Is All In" campaign. Look out for the lovely Katy Perry and the All Blacks.

Text to Speech Awesomeness!

2010-07-30T00:45:00.000-07:00

http://www.naturalreaders.com/

Go knock yourself silly playing with that. I know I have! I like the UK English voice "Lucy"...haha!

Thunder: No Longer Just OKC weather

2010-04-23T21:05:00.000-07:00

I'm not much of a basketball fan. Not that I don't like basketball, I've just found the NBA in particular to have gone the way of soccer. What do I mean by that statement? I'm tired of the over-dramatization of bumps and slight contact. You shouldn't be too surprised, as Rugby is my sport of choice.

Anyway, that's not the point. I'm writting to brag about the NBA franchise of my hometown, Oklahoma City Thunder and their victory over the L.A. Lakers. I couldn't be happier about my town beating one of the biggest names in Pro-Basketball (outside of Jackie Moon, obviously).

"From the broadest possible perspective, the Oklahoma City Thunder prevailed on Thursday because they were quicker, more resourceful and, above all, much hungrier than the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers" (http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2010/04/23/thunder-outwork-lakers-game-win/).

"Kobe Bryant went left, couldn't find an opening, and pulled up for a 15-footer. Kevin Durant craned one of his Durantula arms, like some sort of action figure. Bryant was Blocked. Bryant could not go around Durant and could not shoot over Durant" (http://www.nba.com/2010/news/features/scott_howard_cooper/04/23/lal.okc.3/).
"Every fan entering the Oklahoma City Thunder's first home playoff game (in the series and in team history) against the reigning champion Lakers received a blue shirt saying, "Rise Together." Sometimes this kind of promotion doesn't work and you will see a splattering of other colors. Surely if this were L.A there would be too many people concerned with their outfit to be bothered with a Fruit of the Loom size large promotional t-shirt. Not on Thursday night. Not in Loud City. It was a sea of Thunder-Blue, which sounds like a pending Gatorade flavor. It isn't enough to look the part, however, and the home crowd made sure their support was heard loud and clear" (http://technorati.com/sports/article/thunder-crowd-puts-advantage-in-their/#ixzz0lzB7eeQL).
"The Thunder outrebounded the Lakers 53-39, scored 23 fast-break points and featured four players in double figures (Durant's 29, Westbrook's 27, James Harden's 18 and Jeff Green's 10)" (http://lakersblog.latimes.com/lakersblog/2010/04/lakers-deviates-from-game-plane-in-10196-game-3-loss-to-the-thunder-.html).

One thing for sure is that all the media praised the fans of Oklahoma City. Was there ever a doubt? "Loud City," I like that.

The Northern Ireland Assemly Calls for St. Patrick's Day to be a National Holiday

2010-04-22T02:15:00.000-07:00

In an effort that seems to be drawing cross-community support, the Northern Ireland Assembly is calling for Saint Patrick's Day to be made an official National Holiday. "SDLP Assembly member Alban Maginness said St Patrick was Ireland's patron saint and it was fitting that he be recognised with a public holiday."

The motion was tabled by the Alliance Party's Kieran McCarthy, but is seemingly recieving support across the spectrum of political affiliation. The Alliance Party is "working to build a society free of segregation, sectarianism and prejudice where everyone - Catholic or Protestant, black or white, local or immigrant, rich or poor, young or old - can live their life the way they want, free from fear."

New Music Alert!

2010-03-28T21:13:00.000-07:00

"Let my people have new tunnage" said the King!

Therefore I now present, the New Music Alert!

Mike Snow "Animal"

Breakbot - "Baby I'm Yours (Siriusmo Remix)"

Uffie "MC's Can Kiss"

Discobitch "C'est Beau la Bourgeoisie"

Tommy Bowe: 6 Nations Player of the Championship

2010-03-27T23:33:00.000-07:00

Ireland may have come in second to France this year but, Irishman Tommy Bowe has been named the Player of the Championship. The former Ulster Winger, who now plies his trade for Welsh side Ospreys, is well deserving of this honour. "It has been a championship of mixed emotions for the Irish team but to be named the player of the championship is a fantastic way to end what has been an exciting year" (Irish Independant).

The good news for Ireland is that the honour stays in Ireland, as last years Player of the Championship was Irish Captain, Brian O'Driscoll. According to the Irish Times: "The outcome was decided as a result of a public vote after a panel of former internationals from all six nations submitted their top three nominations. Bowe ensured that the award stayed in Ireland with over 50 per cent of the votes going his way - last year’s winner Brian O’Driscoll received nearly 30 per cent of the votes cast. The remaining votes were dominated by Grand Slam-winners France with Imanol Harinordoquy receiving 20.9 per cent and Morgan Parra gaining 11.5 per cent of the votes."

The Irish aren't the only ones who can boast of Bowe's award as this means "the Magners League has now had the best player in the tournament for five years in a row" (Official Magners League Website). So, hats off to Tommy Bowe. Well Done!

Guilty Pop Indulgences

2010-03-27T12:44:00.000-07:00

We all have indulgences...you know things that secretyly put a smile on our faces. "Oh, I'm too Cool For the Jonas Brothers" but you secretly own their cd's...you know who I'm talkin' 'bout!!! Well here are my guilty bits of pop pleasure for the moment: 3Oh!3 ft. Katy Perry, and Ke$ha, ironically ft. 3Oh!3a.

...and yes, I know how douchey this makes me.

Legend of Zelda + Rap = Aweometown!

2010-03-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

If you download only one thing I recomend, download this: Ocarian of Rhyme from Team Teamwork. They've essentially taken rap tunes and mixed them with the score from the original NES Classic Legend of Zelda! It will put a smile on your face and a thump in your speaker.

Farewell Setanta Sports, thanks for leaving me in the useless hands of FOX!

2010-03-01T05:32:00.000-08:00

Setanta Sports, the $15 a month subsciption channel, that has been my avenue for Rugby since 2005 officially shut doors this morning leaving us with the new replacement channel FOX Soccer Plus. While they have made it sound like a seamless transition, FOX Soccer Plus has no intentions of carrying on all the rugby that Setanta offered. While they retained the rights to the Heineken Cup, the Magners League and the Guinness Premiership they have not acquired the rights to the 6 Nations, or any other International Fixtures, nor any Southern Hemisphere Rugby. So, essentially they dropped us in the middle of the 6 Nations. I am questioning whether or not FOX Soccer Plus will get my $15 a month for less rugby and more poofball. FOX dropped all their rugby back in '03 when they converted FOX Sports World to the FOX Soccer Channel. What's to say they won't marginalize us again? The Bastards!

"The premium network launches March 1 in the United States with rights that had been held by Setanta USA, which is going off the air after Feb. 28. The new network also will televise rugby from the Magners League, the Guinness Premiership and the Heineken Cup, and it will share the European Champions League, the FA Cup and Italy's Serie A with Fox Soccer Channel, its sister network" (USA Today). "The new network, a companion to Fox Soccer Channel, is taking over many of the rights that had been held by Setanta USA, which shuts down Sunday night" (San Luis Obispo Tribune).

Confirming my fears and worries, I have learned that I'm not alone according to "The Rugby Blog":

"FOX Soccer has a patchy history with rugby, having once carried a weekly (or semi-regular) rugby program called The Rugby Club. This was actually innovative show, with a pub-style setting that often brought in local teams to interview. Of course, tape-delayed International matches or highlight shows were the main event. However, The Rugby Club faded into history as did all the rugby coverage on FOX."

So, seeing as I know of other, (slightly on the gray side of legality) free ways to watch/download rugby matches I think I may just give up the ghost. This means no live rugby for Mr. Nate Rowlan. I say that with one exception: I must take this moment to applaud BBC America's live 6 Nations broadcasting this year. My only problem is that they only pick one of the matches. Now, if they would air all of the matches, they'd be on to something big. To be honest, they could air them non-live in the middle of the night, we rugby fans are used to that...it's why God gave us tivos.

Royal Shrovetide Football 2010 Followup

2010-02-28T09:22:00.000-08:00

So I blogged about Royal Shrovetide Football and sung it's praises. I thought I'd follow up with some action from the 2010 Match.

Great Video showing the start of the match complete with the traditional singing!
The Gaurdian has a great page with a nicely produced video: http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/video/2010/feb/18/uk-peakdistrict-ashbourne-derby-football-shrovetide

According to the Ashbourne News Telegraph, "DOWN'ARD Kevin Clarke brought a sudden and shocking end to a gruelling dayʼs play at Clifton Mill — 38 years to the day after his father carried off the same coveted feat."

New Music Alert!: French Horn Rebellion, Ellie Goulding, and Goldfrapp!

2010-02-28T08:20:00.000-08:00

It's been more than a short while since I posted a new music alert. So, here I go. Short and sweet. Check out these tunes and bump them in your car.

1. French Horn Rebellion

They have a cool name and an equally cool sound. I'm digging "Beaches" right now.
French Horn Rebellion - Beaches
Click that link and rock it out. It's linked from this article from the Village Voice: http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/archives/2010/02/introducing_fre.php

2. Ellie Goulding

According to Wikipedia, "She rose to fame after topping the BBC Sound of 2010 poll and winning the Critics Choice Award at the 2010 BRIT Awards. After signing to Polydor Records in 2009, Goulding released her first extended play, An Introduction to Ellie Goulding, followed by her debut full-length studio album, Lights, which will be released 1 March 2010." While I do like her sound, and her voice, I'm loving what Jakwob has done with her single "Starry Eyed." Dub Step Madness to follow!
Ellie Goulding - Starry Eyed (Jakwob Remix)
However, I can't knock the original one bit. It's a bit more mellow, but very beautiful and dreamy.
Ellie Goudling - Starry Eyed (Original Version)
These mp3's were found at the "Pretty Much Amazing" blog.

3. Goldfrapp

Oh, Oh, Oh, she's got a rocket. Yes, Goldfrapp is back and her new tune "Rocket" is firmly getting stuck in my head. From the same voice that brought us "Ooo, La, La" comes a 80's synthy pop hit that's in the right place at the right time.
Goldfrapp - Rocket
The original mp3 was found at Punkreas Blog,but if you're the daring sort, check out the Grum Remix courtesy of Discohands:
Goldfrapp - Rocket (Grum Remix)

That's it for now. Enjoy the new tunes and the sunnier weather, if aplicable.

Royal Shrovetide Football: Forget Carnival/Mardi Gras!

2010-02-16T12:10:00.000-08:00

Today 16 February 2010 is a particular Tuesday that draws a lot of attention throughout Christendom. Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday, the start of the season of Lent (http://ecumenicalexplosion.blogspot.com/2010/02/ash-wednesday-and-start-of-lent.html). So, the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday has long been termed Shrove Tuesday (British Isles) or Fat Tuseday (French: Mardi Gras). "All Catholic and some Protestant countries traditionally call the day before Ash Wednesday Fat Tuesday. The name predated the Reformation and referred to the common Christian tradition of eating special rich foods before the fasting season of Lent" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrove_Tuesday). From New Orleans to Rio people are partying their proverbial asses off before they begin the period of fasting and spiritual preperation before Easter. Now, I think that the idea of getting your sin in while you can is horrible. St. Paul wrote in his letter to the Romans (chapter 6, verse 1), "shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?" Anyway, not to linger too long on the spiritual implications, there is one tradition that I think is way cooler than the pageantry and lewdness of Carnival (what the Latins call Mardi Gras): Royal Shrovetide Football.

The ancient football match known as Royal Shrovetide Football is played over 2 days, Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday in Ashbourne in Derbyshire, England. "Its origins have been lost in the midst of time after a fire at the Shrovetide Committee office in the 1890s. The earliest surviving reference to the game is from 1683 when Charles Cotton (who penned the fly-fishing supplement for Izaac Walton's 'The Compleat Angler') wrote about it. There are many versions as to the true origins of the game - but the most popular seems to be the theory that the 'ball' was originally a head tossed into the waiting crowd following an execution" (http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/derby/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_8322000/8322713.stm).

"Despite the name, the ball is rarely kicked, though it is legal to kick, carry or throw it. Instead it generally moves through the town in a series of hugs, like a giant scrum in Rugby, made up of dozens if not hundreds of people. The two teams that play the game are known as the Up'Ards and the Down'Ards. Up'Ards traditionally are those town members born north of Henmore Brook, which runs through the town, and Down'Ards are those born south of the river. There are two goal posts 3 miles apart, one at Sturston Mill (where the Up'Ards attempt to score), the other at Clifton Mill (where the Down'Ards score). Although the Mills have long since been demolished part of their mill stones still stand on the bank of the river at each location and indeed themselves once served as the scoring posts. In 1996 the scoring posts were replaced once again by new smaller mill stones mounted onto purpose-built stone structures, which are still in use to this day and require the players to actually be in the river in order to 'goal' a ball, as this was seen as more challenging.

The actual process of 'goaling' a ball requires a player to hit it against the mill stone three successive times. This is not a purely random event however, as the eventual scorer is elected en route to the goal and would typically be someone who lives in Ashbourne or at least whose family is well known to the community. The chances of a 'tourist' goaling a ball is very remote, though they are welcome to join in the effort to reach the goal. When a ball is 'goaled' that particular game ends" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Shrovetide_Football). There aren't many rules in Royal Shrovetide Football. The Official Rules for 2010 have been posted in the Ashbourne News Telegraph are as follows:

● No play in the churchyard, cemetery, memorial gardens or other places of worship.

● No conveying of the ball by any vehicle, No building sites to be entered, no hiding the ball so it is out of play, respect other people’s property and no dummy balls.
● Supporters, spectators and members of the public are asked to abide by the advice of police and the marshals and to park vehicles safely and away from regular areas of play.
● Parents with children must be responsible for their own safety, especially those with pushchairs.
● Finally, when a score is achieved the ball is returned to the Green Man and handed to the committee, which will ratify the score. When this is done the committee will hail the scorer and the ball will be awarded.

That's it. Basically don't grab the ball and hop in your car, and stay away from Holy Places. The game recieved it "Royal" title after the failed attempt by Edward III in 1349 was followed by Edward VIII playing in the match in 1928, in which he recieved a bloody nose and then again in 2007 when HRH Charles, Prince of Wales started the match by tossing the ball.

This, along with The Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain is on my list of things to do before I die. I hope to, sooner rather than later, participate in the giant scrum that is Royal Shrovetide Football and enjoy being part of something ancient that has stood the test of time. This is truly an awesome event.

Prince William: "Quite Magnificent Armchair Flanker"

2010-02-12T08:04:00.000-08:00

Prince William is in the Southern Hemisphere on his first official duties as a representative of his Grandmother, The Queen. He has travelled to New Zealand and Australia, spending time doing the official duties of a royal, but still made some time to play a little rugger with some Kiwi Under 10's:

As if the media presence wasn't enough pressure, he was also watched by some of the world's best players, including All Black's captain Richie McCaw and fly-half Dan Carter.

"It's fantastic," said Carter. "And for the likes of the kids here today to meet him and throw a rugby ball around with him they probably don't realise how special it is."
McCaw was equally impressed. "Meeting the guy he's just a genuine bloke and Kiwis you know don't get to see a member of the Royal Family here very often so I think they'll be interested to see what he's doing," he said. (SKY News)

It seems the visit wasn't all fun and games for the Prince when one of the young rugby stars threw a pass a wee bit too low:

The Prince, 27, parried the ball with his hands, gave a loud gasp and hammed it up that he had been winded, or even hit somewhere more painful “Down Under”. It is believed that the boy who threw the ball was called Ryan Wallace. “He got him in the crown jewels,” joked one of his young team-mates. (Telegraph)

HRH Prince William of Wales, who is the Vice Royal Patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, was asked about his own rugby playing ability. He replied that he is a "quite magnificent armchair flanker".

6 Nations: Ireland beat Italy, look forward to France

2010-02-11T09:14:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday Ireland hosted Italy at Croke Park for the start of their 2010 6 Nations Campaign. The Irish are not only aiming for the Championship this year, but defending their first Grand Slam since 1948.

"The Irish kicked off the defence of their Grand Slam with a forgettable display against Italy in Dublin that promised so much more than was delivered to an expectant Croke Park crowd. Declan Kidney's side offered only brief glimpses of their best with No.8 Jamie Heaslip and scrum-half Tomas O'Leary crossing for notable tries. They failed to maintain that momentum and the game descended into a turgid affair after the break that will have had the masses heading for the exits early had they not had to dig so deep for the privilege of witnessing the dour affair" (http://www.scrum.com/sixnations/rugby/story/110303.html).

However, looking forward to France, the Irish will face what some are saying will be their toughest match.

"Marc Lievremont’s men are undoubtedly in the box-seat and displayed a powerful workmanlike approach to gain a vital away victory at Murrayfield. We may still be over a month away from the final weekend of the tournament, but for Irish supporters, this could very much represent ‘Le Crunch’ of our Six Nations" (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/columnists/tyrone-howe/tyrone-howe-paris-match-will-provide-different-test-for-kidney-14674706.html#ixzz0fFMbWCIg).

Ireland Captain, Brian O'Driscoll, has stated that his "rusty" Irish side need to improve ahead of France clash.

“It’s not easy to click immediately, having been together for only two weeks and not having played together since November,” he said. “There is plenty to improve on. It’s the first one and job done. We’ll take the positives out of it and move on. “We showed an ability in the first half to turn defence into attack and the amount of line-out ball we won was a big plus. We made some good line-breaks but didn’t finish them off. Maybe we need to improve our support play" (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/sixnations/7177179/Six-Nations-2010-Brian-ODriscoll-wants-rusty-Irish-to-improve.html).

So, whether you're drinking the Guinness this weekend or sipping the Dom Pérignon this will surely be a match to please.

IRELAND Team & Replacements (v France, RBS 6 Nations Championship, Stade de France, Saturday, February 13, kick-off 5.30pm local time/4.30pm Irish time):

15 - Rob Kearney (UCD/Leinster)

14 - Tommy Bowe (Ospreys)

13 - Brian O'Driscoll (UCD/Leinster) (capt)

12 - Gordon D'Arcy (Lansdowne/Leinster)

11 - Keith Earls (Young Munster/Munster)

10 - Ronan O'Gara (Cork Constitution/Munster)

9 - Tomas O'Leary (Dolphin/Munster)

1 - Cian Healy (Clontarf/Leinster)

2 - Jerry Flannery (Shannon/Munster)

3 - John Hayes (Bruff/Munster)

4 - Leo Cullen (Blackrock College/Leinster)

5 - Paul O'Connell (Young Munster/Munster)

6 - Stephen Ferris (Dungannon/Ulster)

7 - David Wallace (Garryowen/Munster)

8 - Jamie Heaslip (Naas/Leinster)

Replacements:

16 - Rory Best (Banbridge/Ulster)

17 - Tom Court (Malone/Ulster)

18 - Donnacha Ryan (Shannon/Munster)

19 - Sean O'Brien (Clontarf/Leinster)

20 - Eoin Reddan (Lansdowne/Leinster)

21 - Jonathan Sexton (St. Mary's College/Leinster)

22 - Paddy Wallace (Ballymena/Ulster)

Iranians Discover Sunglasses:

2010-02-11T04:57:00.000-08:00

Iranians Discover Sunglasses: Canadian Pop-Genius Corey Hart's 1983 Hit Single "Sunglasses at Night" goes Tripple Platinum.

UN's Top Places to Live: Sorry US, you're far from No.1

2010-02-11T04:40:00.000-08:00

Let's all move to Norway! According to the UN, that's the place to be. Americans and British will feel a slight air of disapointment as they are listed at No.'s 13 and 21 respectively. "The UN list, which saw Norway retain its status as the world’s most desirable place to live, ranks sub-Saharan African states afflicted by war and Aids as the worst." I think it's safe to say that none of us want to live in an environment riddled with suicide bombers and the AIDS.
The data collected for this UN Report was prior to the economic downturn we've all been facing. However, the top countries reflect their place on the list by being the strongest survivors of the fiscal turmoil. " The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) index was compiled using 2007 data on GDP per capita, education, and life expectancy, and showed marked differences between the developed and developing world."
I just met an associate of my father-in-law this week from Norway. He seemed to be a really happy person. So, from my collected data, this report is spot on.

Here's the list:

1. Norway

2. Australia
3. Iceland
4. Canada
5. Ireland
6. Netherlands
7. Sweden

8. France

9. Switzerland

10. Japan

11. Luxembourg

12. Finland

13. United States

14. Austria

15. Spain

16. Denmark

17. Belgium
18. Italy
19. Liechtenstein
20. New Zealand
21. United Kingom

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1218276/Norway-crowned-best-place-world-live--UK-trails-21st-place.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0fEJmEnnO

The "Green" Avenger:Osama bin Laden to make eco-friendly suicide bombs

2010-01-30T10:03:00.000-08:00

Osama bin Laden is the last person any of us thought would chime in on the climate change debate. Apparently we were all wrong. We thought he hated skyscrapers because they were so opposite of caves. Maybe he hates them because they use so much electricity. Personally I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around this one.
"Speaking about climate change is not a matter of intellectual luxury — the phenomenon is an actual fact, all of the industrialized countries, especially the big ones, bear responsibility for the global warming crisis. George Bush junior, preceded by [the US] congress, dismissed the agreement to placate giant corporations. And they are themselves standing behind speculation, monopoly and soaring living costs. They are also behind 'globalisation and its tragic implications'. And whenever the perpetrators are found guilty, the heads of state rush to rescue them using public money. You have destroyed nature with your industrial waste and gases more than any other nation in history. Despite this, you refuse to sign the Kyoto agreement so that you can secure the profit of your greedy companies and industries. Chomsky was right when he pointed to a resemblance between American policies and the approach of mafia gangs, those are the real terrorists."
Links:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/jan/29/osama-bin-laden-climate-change
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/environment/climatechange/7104143/Osama-bin-Laden-enters-global-warming-debate.html

Welcome back, Rory Best! and/or " Irish Wolfhounds"?

2010-01-19T19:32:00.000-08:00

Rory Best, who was thought to be out of rugby past the 6 Nations, has just been included in Declan Kidney's extended 44 man Ireland squad for the 6 Nations. "Best has not played this season because of a serious neck injury but has resumed contact training after making good progress in his rehabilitation," according to the BBC.

In other Irish Rugby news UlsterRugby.Com have called the Ireland 'A' squad the "Ireland Wolfhounds." That has traditionally been the name of the Rugby League Ireland National Side. I didn't know they were poaching it. We shall see what develops of that bit of internet verbage. I sort of liked the simplicity of "Ireland 'A'" versus the garish "English Saxons." Well, I'm just having a bit of fun there, I don't mind the nicknames, I'd just like to know if that's something they're going with, or just slang.

2010 Music Hot List

2010-01-09T07:14:00.000-08:00

So it's 2010, the future is nigh! I thought it'd be fitting to kick off the blogging with some music that is rocking my iPod right now. So, check these artists out. I think you'll dig them...

Deadmau5: I can't get enough of Deadmau5 right now. The vocal edit of "Ghost n Stuff" featuring Rob Swire of Pendulum is a perfect example. This Toronto DJ/Producer is gaining popularity and recognition faster than I can blink. He was voted the #6 DJ by the readers of DJ Magazine in 2009 and I'm sure he'll pass up a few of the older DJ's in next years vote.

http://www.deadmau5.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deadmau5

James Yuill: This dude is the one man master of "Folktronica". His unique sound is just cool. It's not like he's the first to play with this sort of sound, the Beta Band comes to mind, but he's doing it solo, and doing it live. His use of loops and acoustic guitar and pleasantly mellow vibe makes his music a must have in any collection. Starbucks like's him as they even picked one of his songs as their Pick of the Week this past November.

http://www.jamesyuill.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Yuill

Jamie T: I heard someone describe Jamie T as a cross between the Streets and Artic Monkeys. I'd say that's pretty spot on. I'll let you decide for yourself. His new single "Chaka Demus" is on every playlist I make recently. He's young and he's sure to be around for a while.

http://www.jamie-t.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamie_T

Owl City: A kid in his basement making music produced one of the most talked about albums in 2009. I've heard Adam Young, the only band member, slammed as cheesy, too optimistic by radio DJ's more than once. I say our world needs more of the positive, happy vibe he kicks out. His music is in all of my playlists as I enjoy him and my wife adores him.

http://www.owlcitymusic.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Owl_City

Russell Crowe + Ridley Scott = Robin Hood

2010-01-03T15:59:00.000-08:00

I don't know a lot about this film yet. I saw the trailer this weekend while out at the movies with my wife. All I can say is I'm excited and my expectations from this duo are high. Gladiator was 10 years ago.
More info:

Happy New Year! It's Resolution Time!

2010-01-02T06:53:00.000-08:00

With every new year comes the fabled new years resolutions. Some people will pledge to stop smoking, others to read more books, many will take a vow to shed unwanted body fat. While we make these resolutions every year, how many of us follow through? "Millions of Britons are expected to make New Year resolutions, but just under half will have broken them by the end of January, according to research revealed"(http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/britons-struggle-with-resolutions-14615725.html#ixzz0bT2XRISf). While not all the readers of The Official Nate Rowlan Blog are Britons, I'm sure this statistic crosses well over the Atlantic to the shores of America-land.
Are we going to sit back and let the media call over 50% of us quitters and losers? I say, NO! We shall overcome! Still the news is gloomy. It seems defeatism is set in stone, especially if you're a female: "Number one aim is to spend less money, especially among men. Losing weight is the number one resolution among women. However although woman are more likely to make resolutions, men are apparently more likely to keep them" (http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/hometruths/resolutionhell.shtml).
So, how do we overcome the stakced deck? Can we truly become the fitter, thriftier, well-read individuals we vow to become? USA Today says, "There's an app for that..." According to a recent article we should use technology to help us. While not all of us are iPhone users, for those of you who are there is an arsenal of weaponry at your disposal. "With a new year upon us, it's time to think about your resolutions. Many people don't stick to their resolutions, but you can beat the trend. A few apps for your iPhone or iPod Touch can help." Read the rest of the USA Today article here: http://www.usatoday.com/tech/columnist/kimkomando/2009-12-31-resolutions-apps_N.htm
For fitness goals, many people are turning to the Nintendo Wii. Yes, it's popular for your kids, but the media campaign to push the new Wii Fit products can be seen at every commercial break on cable and satelite television. ABC News reports that the Wii Fit is one of Amazon's top selling items right now, along with Susan Boyle's new CD, Sarah Palin's new book and the electronic book reader Kindle (http://abcnews.go.com/Business/amazon-releases-list-best-selling-products-holiday-season/story?id=9436909).
We now have more websites dedicated to helping us become the people we want aim to be. The US Government has even set up a money managing website called, mymoney.gov that helps people become more fiscally astute.
My advice is stick to your guns and use the resources available. Research the area you are concentrating on fully and then launch an all out attack on it. Don't half-ass your resolution, if you do, you will fail.
Good luck to you all in 2010 with whatever goals you are trying to achieve. Me? I'm headed to the gym to do more cardio, and making preperations for healthier, lower calorie eating. Yes, I too am one of the many making a resolution to slim down.

A Visit From Saint Nicholas

2009-12-24T09:58:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, 23 December 1823 a poem, of sorts, was leaked to the Troy Sentinel, a small newspaper in Troy, New York. It was titled, "A Visit from Saint Nicholas", but is more commonly known to us as "T'was the Night Before Christmas." There is controversy surrounding the original author. It is usually ascribed to Clement C. Moore, but is said to actually have been penned by Mr. Henry Livingston. Regardless, this poem has come to shape how we imagine Saint Nicholas to dress, and walk, and laugh. It has brought millions joy and hope. Hope that jolly St. Nick soon would be there.
Here for you is the unedited original version of the story as it appeared in the Troy Sentinel back in 1823:
1 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all thro' the house,
2 Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
3 The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
4 In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
5 The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
6 While visions of sugar plums danc'd in their heads,
7 And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,
8 Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap-
9 When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
10 I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
11 Away to the window I flew like a flash,
12 Tore open the shutters, and threw up the sash.
13 The moon on the breast of the new fallen snow,
14 Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below;
15 When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
16 But a minature sleigh, and eight tiny rein-deer,
17 With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
18 I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
19 More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
20 And he whistled, and shouted, and call'd them by name:
21 "Now! Dasher, now! Dancer, now! Prancer, and Vixen,
22 "On! Comet, on! Cupid, on! Dunder and Blixem;
23 "To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
24 "Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
25 As dry leaves before the wild hurricane fly,
26 When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky;
27 So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,
28 With the sleigh full of Toys - and St. Nicholas too:
29 And then in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
30 The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
31 As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
32 Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound:
33 He was dress'd all in fur, from his head to his foot,
34 And his clothes were all tarnish'd with ashes and soot;
35 A bundle of toys was flung on his back,
36 And he look'd like a peddler just opening his pack:
37 His eyes - how they twinkled! his dimples how merry,
38 His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry;
39 His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
40 And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;
41 The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,
42 And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
43 He had a broad face, and a little round belly
44 That shook when he laugh'd, like a bowl full of jelly:
45 He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,
46 And I laugh'd when I saw him in spite of myself;
47 A wink of his eye and a twist of his head
48 Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
49 He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
50 And fill'd all the stockings; then turn'd with a jerk,
51 And laying his finger aside of his nose
52 And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose.
53 He sprung to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
54 And away they all flew, like the down of a thistle:
55 But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight-
56 Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

*Click Here For Newspaper Cut Out
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Visit_From_Saint_Nicholas
http://books.google.com/books?id=BLAxRu_ngZ4C&dq=a%20visit%20from%20st.%20nicholas&pg=PP1#v=onepage&q=&f=false
I couldn't end it better had I written it myself: Happy Christmas To All!

Christmas: Let's Get Our Facts Straight

2009-12-23T14:19:00.000-08:00

Christmas is nearly upon us, and I couldn't be more excited. However, every year at this time I hear ramblings and sayings from people that aren't right. Frankly, people have a lot of facts about Christmas wrong. So, I, being the compasionate gentleman that I am, am going to correct some grevious yuletide errors.

1. The Immaculate Conception:
I always here people talk about the immaculate conception in refference to the birth of Christ. However, the immaculate conception had to do with the birth of Christ's mother, Mary. "The Immaculate Conception is, according to Roman Catholic Dogma, the conception of the Virgin Mary without any stain (macula in Latin) of original sin. It is one of the four dogmas in Roman Catholic Mariology. Under this aspect Mary is sometimes called the Immaculata (the Immaculate One), particularly in artistic contexnts. The dogma states that, from the first moment of her existence, she was preserved by God from the lack of sanctifying grace that afflicts mankind, and that she was instead filled with divine grace (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immaculate_Conception)."

2. Santa Claus & Father Christmas:
There are loads of names of Christmas Eve gift bringers, but are they actually the same? Yes, and no would be the proper answer as recently they've been fused and blended, but traditionally speaking it is a firm, No.
Father Christmas, known by the British World, now holds the same role as the American Santa Claus (Americanized version of Sinterklass thanks to our Dutch friends who immigrated to the US) or more precisely Saint Nicholas. His origins aren't as saintly as Jolly Ole St. Nick. Father Christmas is a remnant of the Vikings. To best understand who Father Christmas was before the American influence took over, one only has to look to Dicken's Ghost of Christmas Present.
"The Vikings brought their god Odin. Odin was the father of the gods, and he had twelve characters. The character for December was sometimes known as Yalka or Jul and his month was known as Jultid. From this, we get Yuletide. During December the Vikings believed that Odin would come to earth on his eight legged horse, Sleipnir. He was disguised in a long blue hooded cloak, and he carried a satchel of bread and a staff. His companion was often a Raven or a Crow. (This description was also given for St Benedict, the founder of the great Benedictine Order of monks and nuns! It is likely that Benedicts description was at some early time, overlaid onto the image of Odin.) Odin was supposed to join groups around their fire, sitting in the background and listening in to hear if they were content or not. He would occasionally leave a gift of bread at a poor homestead. Here you can see already customs we associate with Father Christmas. The hooded figure, the secret visits, the leaving of a gift (http://www.christmasarchives.com/england.html)." The Norman invasion, Cromwell and his Puritans, and finally WWII's American Troops helped to fully merge the ancient character of Father Christmas with that of Saint Nicholas of Myra.

3. The Christmas Tree is Pagan:
I'm proud to announce to all of you sweaty-browed christians that the Christmas Tree is not pagan. It has genuine, honest to goodness, christian roots (mind the pun). You may or may not have heard of Saint Boniface. What really brought the man stardom was that he cut down Thor's Oak. "The felling of Thor's Oak took place at Geismar, now part of the town of Fritzlar in North Hesse, Germany. The people who lived in the area were mostly worshippers of the Germanic gods best-known to us by their Scandinavian names (Thor, Odin, Freya and the others from Norse mythology.) Germans called Thor "Donnar." The word "thunder" is cognate. Possibly the name of the Vedic thunder-god, Indra, is too. The Roman historian Tacitus thought that Thor / Donnar was Hercules, because of his great strength. Others thought he was Jupiter because of the thunderbolts. The oak tree was the usual community meeting-place. Our sources tell us that Boniface greeted the local militia there. He stripped to the waist, took an axe, and chopped the tree down. The god Thor did not strike Boniface dead with a lightning bolt. The soldiers were then baptized into the Christian faith (http://www.pathguy.com/thorsoak.htm)." Sometime after this Boniface noticed a fir tree growing in the roots of the old oak of Thor. "This humble tree's wood is used to build your homes: let Christ be at the centre of your households. Its leaves remain evergreen in the darkest days: let Christ be your constant light. Its boughs reach out to embrace and its top points to heaven: let Christ be your Comfort and Guide (http://www.crediton.co.uk/tourism/boniface_crediton.html)." The Evergreen tree became a symbol of Christ to the Germanic Peoples (which is why the song is "O Tannenbaum") and featured prominantly in the winter holiday of Christmas.

Now that I've got those things cleared up, I hope you all have a wonderful Christmastide. My God richly bless you all as we celebrate the coming of the Christ-child.

Christmas No. 1: Rage Against the Machine

2009-12-21T07:13:00.000-08:00

"[explative delete] you, I won't do what you tell me!" This phrase is exactly what the UK has officially said to Simon Cowell and X-Factor by making Rage Against the Machine's "Killing In The Name" 2009's Christmas No. 1. Cowell called this act "very Scrooge," "stupid," and "cynical" (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/tvandradio/x-factor/6852502/Rage-Against-The-Machine-Christmas-Number-One-the-man-behind-the-campaign.html).
For the last 4 years Cowell's X-Factor winner has seemingly automatically claimed the Christmas Number 1 Chart Spot. It had affected what was a great British Tradition so much that the bookies, quit taking bets on it...till this year. A Facebook campaign started by Jon Morter of Essex (Rage Against the Machine for Christmas No. 1), eclipsed the industry hype to "Take the Power Back."
While my wife, from Northern Ireland, thinks that this is a horrible song to be Christmas No. 1, I would disagree, saying that while it doesn't have the cheesey, family feel, it might just be the catalyst that brings back the joy to the Christmas No. 1 race (if you have no point of reference for this event, it's detailed in the film "Love Actually").
According to the Independant, "More than half a million people downloaded the band’s famously anti-authoritarian and expletive laden track “Killing in the Name” in what was seen as a broad protest against the increasing influence of manufactured pop music" (http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/rage-against-the-machine-take-christmas-no1-slot-1846247.html). The campaign even had Sir Paul McCartney commenting, "it would be kind of funny if Rage Against The Machine got it because it would prove a point" (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/8420325.stm). Rage Against the Machine frontman, Zack de la Rocha, has said, "It says more about the spontaneous action taken by young people throughout the UK to topple this very sterile pop monopoly" according to the BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/8423340.stm). NME has reported on how big the upset has been in the world of betting. "It's the biggest Christmas shock of all time," Gary Burton of Coral explained, "and although it has cost the industry over £1 million, it at least now keeps the interest going, after The X Factor dominance almost killed off the festive chart betting forever" (http://www.nme.com/news/rage-against-the-machine/48979). According to BBC Chart Analyst Colin Paterson, "This chart shock is right up there with Spiller's 'Groovejet' derailing the start of Victoria Beckham's non-Spice Career in 2000 or crooner Engelbert Humperdinck ending The Beatles' run of 11 number ones in a row."
The message sent out by the public is quite clear as is RATM's message of anti-authoritarian control: We Will Not Be Manipulated. "Killing in the Name" was on of my group of friend's college anthems, so it definitely brings back memories for me. Maybe this angry, rebellious song has laid the groundwork for Bob the Builder to make his Christmas comeback? We shall see.

Captain EO is back at Disneyland!

2009-12-18T12:39:00.000-08:00

Captain EO was one of the coolest experiences I had as a kid. It was a 3D Michael Jackson Movie experience that made you feel like you could change the world. Yes, I know that's a cheese-ball notion, but as a kid, that's how it felt. Disney removed the Captain EO experience during the height of Jackson Controversy. However, now with his passing and the media's turn on a dime effort to glorify him, the CEO's of Disney Parks have decided it was timely (probably mostly for their pocketbooks) to bring it back. I, personally, don't care about the politics of the whole thing, I'm just happy that it's returning. According to Disney, "The attraction’s return to Tomorrowland will provide new audiences the opportunity to experience the original 3D production for the very first time, as well as a nostalgic look back for longtime fans wanting to see “The King of Pop” in a rare performance created for the big-screen, just one more time" (http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2009/12/captain-eo-returns-to-disneyland-resort).
If you never had a chance to see it and wonder what the hype is all about, here it is. Let me just add that it's much better in 3D:

Michael Jackson - Captain Eo (Disneyland - 3D Glasses)
Uploaded by laingui. - Explore more music videos.

The Controversial Bishop: Homosexuality and the Amglican Communion

2009-12-13T07:57:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, 05 December 2009 the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles elected it's first openly homosexual Bishop. This move has been applauded by Liberals and have left Conservatives feeling a widening divide in their church. Most of us raised in a Christian environment were taught that things like homosexuality as well as adultery and promiscuity were sexual sins. These sins seperate us from God, and it is our duty to avoid such behavior. That's me painting the picture lightly. How is it that we have gone from that stance to having a growing number of people accepting someone who commits what we've always considered sin as a spiritual advisor?
The process started in 1976 when the Anglican Communion affirmed the idea that "homosexuals were 'Children of God' and deserve acceptance and pastoral care from the church. It also called for homosexual persons to have equal protection under the law." It has evolved into something far from that. Now the Episcopal Church (the Anglican Communion in North America) have allowed the appointing of not just homosexual priests, but now bishops. Personally, I have no problem with the 1976 proclamation. I believe that we are all entitled to equal rights in society regardless or what we do or don't do in the bedroom. However, a private organization is allowed to have standards and required prohibitions for it's members. St. Paul's 1st letter to the Church at Corinth states:

Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor practicing homosexuals nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)

The writer of The Epistle to Romans also comments:

For this reason [idolatry] God gave them up to passions of dishonor; for even their females exchanged the natural use for that which is contrary to nature, and likewise also the males, having left the natural use of the female, were inflamed by their lust for one another, males with males, committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the recompense which was fitting for their error. (Romans 1:26-27)

I'm not writting to "throw stones" at people. According to St. Paul, there are loads of things that will prevent any one of us from inheriting the Kingdom of God. One wouldn't elect a known Drunkard, or Adulterer as a Bishop, would they? I would say no. However, the Episcopal Church has elected openly homosexual Bishops.
I write about this because I feel the church is on the doorsteps of schism. I write because this may be one of the largest controversies in Christendom since the Reformation. "The Rev. Kendall Harmon, canon theologian for the South Carolina diocese, said in a statement that Saturday's decision 'represents an intransigent embrace of a pattern of life Christians throughout history and the world have rejected as against biblical teaching. . . . It will continue to do damage to the Anglican Communion and her relationship with our ecumenical partners.'" (http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-bishop6-2009dec06,0,4273553.story)
In an interview with George Pritcher of the Telegraph, Dr. Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, discusses these actions by the Episcopal Church, "'It confirms the feeling that they’re moving further from the Anglican consensus,' he tells me. Can there ever be a consensus in which biblical traditionalists can be in communion with homosexual bishops? The man who has committed his archbishopric to unity pauses: 'I’m not holding my breath.'" (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/religion/6792671/Dr-Rowan-Williams-taking-a-break-from-Canterbury-travails.html) According to the LA Times article referenced above, the Archbishop of Canterbury has "implored the 109-diocese American church to go no further."
Mary D. Glasspool, the newly-elected lesbian Bishop has stated, ""I believe the people of the diocese, by the grace and power and influence of the Holy Spirit, went beneath skin deep, went beneath the superficial characteristics and boxes into which we put people to really look at individual people..." (LA Times). Is she not commenting that God himself has chosen not to get beneath the "superficial characteristics and boxes"? The last time I checked the Anglican Communion's stance on Scripture was that it is the inspired Word of God. In this Divinely Inspired Word I have already given two out of many references of condemnation of sexual immorality that includes homosexuality.
It is a strange day when people affirm in one hand the Gospe'ls stated need of a Saviour, and in the other hand refute the Gospel's reasons for which we need said Saviour. I'm not writting this to show hatred towards people who identify themselves as homosexual. I'm not writting to say that these people aren't loved by God, nor are they undeserving of love by the Church. I'm writting to say these people are in err with Christian views of morality and should not be involved in Church Leadership.
The growing schism is thrusting traditionalists towards Rome. The Pope is ready to embrace these displaced Anglicans with open arms. This, in my opinion, is both a good thing and bad thing. It is good that there is ecumenical diaologue between Rome and Canterbury. It is bad that these reformists are embracing things from which there forefathers suffered to distance themselves. This is being called the "Anglican Realinement". Wikipedia offeres an excellent timeline of this process:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anglican_realignment#Development_and_growth

I do not know where this will end. What I do know is that it's the begginning of something that will be hotly contested and it will leave the Christian World in a state of Chaos. I implore you now more than ever to echo Christ's prayer for unity.

IRB Player of the Year: A Joke, Right?

2009-12-01T08:17:00.000-08:00

On 28 November 2009 the IRB handed out one of the top honours in world rugby: The IRB Player of the Year. It was handed to Richie McCaw, the captain of New Zealand, the leader of the All Blacks. Let me start by saying I have no problem with McCaw. He is one of the best, if not the best flanker in the world right now. However, awarding him the award is an injustice to a player that truly stood out this year. This player is Brian O'Driscoll. The All Blacks have had a lackluster year at best. They lost the Tri-Nations and while they have won matches when they needed to, they were less than their usual form. While they regained their number 1 world ranking over the weekend it has not been a year of stellar performance for them.
In contrast we turn to Brian O'Driscoll (or BOD). BOD captained his club, Leinster, to the Heineken Cup Final and won making his team the Champions of Europe. He captained his country, Ireland, to win the Triple Crown (the lesser trophy awarded for beating the home nations: England, Scotland & Wales) and the 6 Nations by route of a Grand Slam. This is the first Grand Slam for Ireland since 1948. He then formed part of the core of the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa, and while the scoreboard may speak differently, his exploits on the pitch this summer proved how outstanding of a centre he truly is. BOD then continued to captain his country through the end of the year international matches with an undefeated record.
Needless to say, this year has been an epic year for Brian O'Driscoll and for Ireland.
I can't see what Richie McCaw has done to eclipse the feats of BOD. It boggles me.
According to Tony Ward of the Belfast Telegraph (http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/odriscoll-snub-is-simply-absurd-14581497.html?r=RSS), "It truly is one of the great sporting injustices of our time. The greatest Irish player of this or any other generation has just completed his greatest season — one encompassing Six Nations, Grand Slam, Triple Crown and Heineken Cup glory, not to mention an unbeaten autumn series. His captaincy has been inspirational and without his presence none of these trophies would be in residence on this island now (well, perhaps the Heineken Cup might have finished a little further south). Forget the incredible record of 38 tries as well as the countless assists, and instead concentrate on the selfless work ethic this extraordinary player brings to every game he plays. He is the supreme role model at the pinnacle of his powers, with his nomination for IRB world player of the year an absolute no-brainer." Mr. Ward adequately expresses my sentiments as well as what seems to be most of Ireland as a current poll by the Irish Times (http://www.irishtimes.com/polls/index.cfm?fuseaction=yesnopoll&pollid=9129) show that 76% of the voters do not believe McCaw deserved this award. Yes, I know that it's biased coming from Ireland. However, the point is that even if O'Driscoll was out, there were other qualified players, and as much as it pains me to say, some of them from South Africa (Fourie Du Preez for example).
At the end of the day, the IRB has made an unjust ruling and I cannot, for the life of me, see where it came from. In my books, this was BOD's year, and he is The Official 2009 Winner of The Official Nate Rowlan Blog Rugby Player of the Year.

Here are some highlights of BOD's greatness this year:
En Route to European Glory:

2009 6 Nations Grand Slam Champions:

Press Conference Skills:

Intercept Try v Munster:

On Tour with the British & Irish Lions:

End of Year against Australia:

*My video posting is limited to what videos I could find on Youtube.

When Faith & Culture Collide

2009-11-29T19:20:00.000-08:00

The West is encountering an invasion. 500 years ago this sort of invasion would have been met with the sword. However, today we promote tolleration, inclusiveness and multi-culturalness. Where do we draw the line between culture and faith? Are culture and faith intertwined deeper than what modern westerners would like to admit?
There is a clash brewing in Switzerland that is very relevant to us today.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/low/europe/8384835.stm

SVP member of parliament Ulrich Schluer said, "a minaret is a political symbol. It is a symbol for introducing, step-by-step, Sharia rights also in Switzerland, parallel to the Swiss law which is a result of Swiss democracy. And this is the problem. It is nothing against Muslims."

The UK has already had conflict regarding Sharia Law vs the realm of British Authority, with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, declaring "the application of sharia in certain circumstances - if we want to achieve this cohesion and take seriously peoples' religion - seems unavoidable?"

Are America, Britain, Switzerland and other countries culturally void of religious influence? Is it time to stop denying the impact of religious thought on our culture, even if the people have lost their faith in that religion? I guess my point is that while the western world is becoming more and more agnostic and atheistic the new wave of immigrants have a very strong faith which shapes their world-view, and will begin to shape our cultural identity and legal systems. By abandoning Christianity has the west abandoned their claim to their culture and systems?
I'd like to hear feedback on this from anyone who reads. I'm not writing this to be offensive to anyone of a different faith, as I do have good friends of different religious affiliation. I'm raising questions about society, religion and worldview. I hope those that read can understand the difference between making accusations, and asking questions based on current events and their potential ramifications.

Questions of Faith: Conservative Anglicanism's inevitable pull to Roman Catholicism

2009-10-24T06:34:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday, 20th October 2009, The Pope (or the Vatican) announced that it would allow "Groups of Anglicans to join the Roman Catholic Church but maintain a distinct religious identity." ( http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8316120.stm) While the Anglican Church (The Episcopal Church in the United States) is moving towards a more liberal plan concerning areas of morality and in a seperate sense the ordination of women (please don't assume I'm lumping those two together) many conservative members and groups are feeling that they share more in common with their Catholic cousins than the Church they once held loyalty.
"In the United States, 10 nuns at an Anglican convent near Baltimore have taken the extraordinary step of converting to Roman Catholicism, citing the Episcopal Church's liberal approach to homosexuality as a reason.
The decision by the All Saints Sisters of the Poor is thought to be the first by what is virtually an entire order.
It comes shortly after the Episcopal Church's governing body declared gay people eligible for any priestly role, including that of bishop."(http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8266430.stm)
What is unique about the Popes decree is that The Vatican will allow the Anglicans "to enter full communion with the Catholic church, but also preserve elements of the Anglican traditions including the possible use of Anglican prayer books." It seems the counter-reformation is in full swing, albeit it a wee bit late on the Catholic church's part.
In my opinion there is more and more pressure for the church to conform to the world's view of right and wrong, of what is socially acceptable, and what is or is not moral. We, Christians, have enjoyed being the leading force for a long time now, but let us not forget our early brothers and sisters who's faith made them stand out to the world. Before Christianity made the world bend to it's shape the world was clamping down on Christianity to bend to it. The tides are turning, and for the first time we must either stand up to the pressure or cave in. While many Evangelicals despise Catholicism, it is the Vatican that stands up against this barrage of secularism.
This move of inclusion by the Catholic church is both historical and controversial. While Dr. Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury (head of the Anglican Church) has insisted that this "has no negative impact on the relations of the (Anglican) Communion as a whole to the Roman Catholic Church as a whole," some officials and insiders are disagreeing. "The archbishop's representative in Rome, Bishop David Richardson, described the Vatican's move as surprising, asking "why this, and why now?" (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8318663.stm)
The accusation is being made that the Catholics are "fishing in the Anglican pond." The Vatican's senior spokesman on relations with other churches commented that "'full visible unity' with Anglicans was Rome's long-term goal."
The outcome? We shall see. While this move may hamper anglo-catholic relations it is strengthening the statement that people will not stand for immorality permiating their faith. Whatever the risks, I think this is a stand worth taking.

A-Team Movie in 2010

2009-10-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to announce that they are currently filming the A-Team Movie.
"More excited than Tron?" Yes, I'm glad to announce that I am indeed more excited about the A-Team than Tron. So, here's the line-up: Quinton Jackson (B.A Baracus) Liam Neeson (Hannibal), Sharlto Copley (Murdock) and Bradley Cooper (Face). Most of us know Neeson and Cooper but who are Jackson and Copley? Jackson is a MMA Fighter, so a natural replacement for Mr.T. Copley is a Saffer (South African) who has the same crazy look as we expect to see from Murdock. Here is a link to the Daily Mail's article with more pictures: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1217409/Pictured-Silver-haired-Liam-Neeson-commands-The-A-Team-new-look-cast-seen-time.html

Jim Belushi = Steven Seagal

2009-09-29T09:48:00.000-07:00

I now officially believe that Jim Belushi and Steven Seagal are the same person. Proof you ask? Here:

Which one is which? Which one is in a family sitcom and which is staring in a new police tv show? I don't know?

TRON LEGACY: Woooooooo! Pure Awesomenss!

2009-08-28T16:16:00.001-07:00

Tron Legacy.
That literally should be all I have to type.

I won't, because I like the sound of my own voice, or in this case reading my own written word (isn't it obvious by my ownership of a blog?).
Disney are making the sequal to TRON. It comes out in 2010 (which sounds like the future to me). It looks like it will be awesome.
A few things that will make it awesome: 1. It's Tron, 2. It's a continuing storyline of the original, 3. Daft Punk are producing the score to the film (with a confirmed 24 songs already).
The Director, Stephen Kosinski was asked why he decided to have Daft Punk to do the film score, he replied, "How could you not at least go to those guys?"
I agree. That's a marriage made in heaven.
So, enough of my ramblings, here is the trailer:

Also, if my mention of Daft Punk had you thinking, "I'd love to see Daft Punk" here they are in Dublin:

Beach Rugby: The Dream

2009-08-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

Reus Deportiu Rugby Champions in the Beach Cambrils 2009 from Francesc Torres on Vimeo.

beach rugby - Anglet 2008 from masterclem on Vimeo.

Rugby Girls in the Beach Cambrils from Francesc Torres on Vimeo.

Beach Rugby Cup à Tence from Zoom on Vimeo.

So, yes, Beach Rugby is the Dream. Combining my love for the Ocean with my love for Rugby I think would put me in a coma of bliss.

Tracey Rowlan

2009-08-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

A brief blogging about the Wonderful Tracey Rowlan. Tracey Rowlan née McNamee, was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland. She spent the first few years of her life in Portugal, but was predominantly raised in Bruxelles, Belgium.
I met Tracey at Evangel University, in Springfield, Missouri. After I graduated I worked for her father in Europe and after that we dated, married and now live happily ever after.
She's smart, driven, sexy, a great friend, and has a flair for fun. She's slightly addicted to Starbucks and Dancing (especially in the car). This month (August) we will celebrate our 7th year of marriage, which has been both for better and for worse. What is fantastic about Tracey is that she has stuck through the worse and always tries to create the better. I love her, and look forward to whatever adventures we will share in the future.

"Communal Capitalism"?

2009-07-21T06:40:00.000-07:00

As I sat on the recumbent bike at my gym yesterday, pedaling away I was watching CNN and an interesting story about a community coming together and buying a failing local coffee shop caught my attention. It wasn't the story itself, although it's a good, heart warming story, but the use of a particular term in the story. "Communal Capitalism." I know what Capitalism is, I know what Communism is, but what the heck is Communal Capitalism? To me, it sounds like everyone in America is so scared to say Socialism, or Communism because of the fear tactics our parents and grandparents generations used. Are we so McCarthy'd that we can't see the forest for the trees? Is Communal Capitalism not Communism? I guess the problem is that in America we can't say communism without envisioning the USSR and the Cold War. However at the close of the 19th Century and the beginning of the 20th Century communism had a very noble, philosophical vibe to it. It seemed the rational movement away from the bourgeoisie and the tyrannical divine-right kings of the day. Does it get any more noble than a community lumping it in together to save something they love? I feel it brings up a very negative point about our modern American society. Are we so self-centered that we cannot accept that we owe a debt to our neighbors, and to our community? The old saying goes, "It takes a village to raise a child." This, even today, holds true. We, as Americans are not a nation of individuals, not a "Army of One", but we will be judged on what we do as a whole. I'm not advocating a wholesale movement to communism. What I am saying is it's time we shed some of the ignorance of our past generations and come to grips with Socialization and Community Responsibility. Some days it feels like we live in a nation of Scrooges who are only looking out for their own personal good and the bottom line. Well, thanks to that mentality we're in a huge recession which is costing millions of people their jobs, homes and futures.

To read the stories referenced please click the following links:
http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0907/20/cnr.04.html
http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6896-SF-Culinary-Travel-Examiner~y2009m7d11-Communal-capitalism-rescues-Brooklyn-cafe-CNN-reports-see-video

Nate Rowlan's Top 5 For The Weekend!

2009-07-18T12:33:00.000-07:00

Alright, here are my Top 5 Songs for the weekend *(Parental Discretion Advised):
5. Fancy - "Inside of You"

4. Kany West - "Paranoid (LMFAO Party Rock Remix)"

3. Gameboy Gamegirl - "Fruit Salad"

2. Kissy Sell Out - "Harriet"

1. Calvin Harris - "I'm Not Alone"

New Music Alert!: Martin Solveign ft. Dragonette

2009-07-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

Jean Paul Gaultier, yes the designer, got Martin Solveig to team up with French pop band Dragonetter to release a song (and more importantly for Gaultier, a video) to show off some of his new line. The result? AWESOME! Here it is: Boys and Girls!

The Magner's League (Celtic) Trophy: A really beautiful piece of silverware

2009-07-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest, I've never really paid attention to what the actual Magner's League Trophy looked like. I saw a picture today and was surprised that it's actually a beautiful trophy. Hat's off to the league for creating it.

Tony Buckley is a powerhouse. Did anyone else see his Churchill Cup Try against Georgia?

2009-07-01T05:58:00.000-07:00

Tony Buckley's try in the Churchill Cup vs. Georgia was awesome. He literally threw down one of the oposition players and powered his way over the line to score. I guess I'm impressed by raw power like that. Everyone writes up a storm when someone jukes and dances their way to a try, but rarely do the power drives get much attention. I haven't found video to post yet, but I might repost it later.

John Hayes gets a Lions Call Up and I'm well pleased.

2009-06-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

I may be criticized for being happy that John Hayes got a call up to the join the British & Irish Lions, but I don't care. I love the big Munster & Ireland prop and am not ashamed to admit it. Even if all he does is play against the emerging springboks, I'm happy to see him represent the epitimy of touring rugby.

You can read more about this from the Irish Times:

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/sport/2009/0623/1224249338590.html

New Music Alert!: Johnny Foreigner "Feels Like Summer"

2009-06-01T12:22:00.001-07:00

"Sum-summer, sum-summer!" is what will be stuck in your head after listening to this great indie-tune! Johnny Foreigner's release is timely as the temperature has risen, and to quote Alice Cooper, "Schools Out For Summer!"
I heard this record played by Hugh Stevens of BBC Radio 1 fame. It's now officially in my playlist and can be in yours too, courtesy of RCDLBL: clique ici!

The Pope and The Middle East

2009-05-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

Pope Benedict XVI is in the midst of a landmark visit to the middle east. I think you'd have to be living under a rock to have missed this news. CNN, FOX, the BBC, and every other major news organization have been dutifully covering every move, word, handshake, shoe removal, and sigh of the Pope. This visit comes at a time when the Western Christian World is at complete odds with the Eastern Muslim World. Oh, let's not forget the Jews...they are sort of stuck in the middle. Let's just say the Abrahamic Faiths do not practice what their respective beliefs teach when it comes to the other extremely similar religions.
The Muslim world is still perterbed at the Pope who 3 years ago read aloud 14th Century Christian Ruler Manuel II Paleologus saying,

Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new and there you will find
things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the
faith he preached

Like most excerpts of text or speech, this must be viewed in context of the conversation or lecture that was being given. Manuel II Paleologus was one of the last Christian Rulers in Constantinople before the Islamic Conquest. Manuel was being constantly attacked by the Ottoman Turks who were launcing an absolute war against the infidel Christian Byzantine Empire. I believe the Popes point was perception. How would you view a religion that converts by the sword? I think the dialogue that Pope Benedict was trying to promote (within a scholarly environment) was how we see faith, and religious practice.

So, we now all wait, watching, eyes glued to the television or computer monitor in eager anticipation of what will unfold. Fortunately it has been a good visit. It was apparent that Muslim Leaders were going to ask for an apology. It is also apparent that the Pope would ask for peaceful relations between the 3 faiths.

To me the highlight has been the Popes reminder to Christian Arabs not to smack around the ladyfolk. Maybe the West's issues with the East aren't Christian and Islam as much as it is Western Worldview versus Eastern Worldview.

Obama using Churchill to win my support...Clever

2009-05-03T13:31:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, 29 April 2009 (last week) President Obama held a press conference where he again was asked about waterboarding and other tortuous methods sanctioned by the US. Obama has previously shared his dislike of these methods and has banned the use.
When asked again on Wednesday about how he felt about the Bush Administrations tactics Obama, in my opinion, had a moment of genius when truely expressing values:
“We could have gotten this information in other ways, in ways that were consistent with our values,” he said, “in ways that were consistent with who we are.” Citing the experience of Britain in the Second World War, “when London was being bombed to smithereens”, he pointed out that Winston Churchill had refused to allow torture of 200 German detainees because to have done so would have corroded “the character of a country”.
Quote taken from the Times Online: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article6196196.ece
This is really the issue that I feel a lot of Americans don't get. Compromising our integrity is not worth any results. We live in a "ends justify the means" sort of society today. We've derailed when we no longer stand for anything. If we are not the bearers of freedom like Bush and Cheney beat like a drum, what are we? The mantra of protecting individual liberties was violated and as the great Churchill said, doing so does corrode the character of our country.

Rocky Elsom

2009-04-23T15:08:00.000-07:00

Rocky Elsom, according to reports, is going to be back off home at the end of the H-Cup (European Championship of Rugby) and play for his old team the Waratahs (Sydney, NSW, Australia). He's been awesome this year playing alongside the likes of Brian O'Driscoll and Felipe Contepomi. So, we must bid him farewell, and hope he can bring fortune back to the 'Tahs as they've struggled this season. Full Story here: http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,25362284-5006067,00.html

British & Irish Lions 2009: Beasts to face the Springboks, and Steve Jones of the Times is officially a Knob.

2009-04-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

According to the Times Online, Stuart Barnes says "Lions squad lacks stardust." (I think we had too much "Stardust" on our NZ tour, in my humble, never boisterous opinion. I stand behind Ian McGeechan. Yes, we can debate about BOD over POC, but, I understand what the aim in selecting O'Connell is, and I can see why they've picked the pack they've picked.I'm curious to see who wins out in the locks (2nd row) position. Obviously, we expect O'Connell, the captain, to start. After all I've read recently, and seeing stupid temper mistakes from the 6 Nations, I'm a bit surprised a Donncha O'Callaghan included. Not that I don't think he's a great lock, it just seemed all the "experts" had written him off. Nathan Hines is someone I'll be keeping my eye on. I think the midweek matches will be very interesting. The difference is that the Lions aren't taking everyone and their cousins like they did in '05. There is not a clear mid-week squad vs. the test squad. This is, for a lot of the positions an up in the air tour. I think what McGeechan and Co. have done is create a very intense, very competitive atmosphere. The dumbest thing I've read is Steve Jones of the Times saying of Brian O'Driscol, "I wouldn’t have him in my Test team." Seriously? He is the star Centre of Rugby at the moment, and honestly has been, albeit off and on, since he came onto the scene. Steve Jones, in my opinion, just openly declared himself a knob.As an Ulster Supporter, I'm proud to see Stephen Ferris, and although he's plying his trade in Wales, Tommy Bowe included. Bowe has been playing his balls off this season. While I'm sad not to see legend John Hayes included, I understand him not getting picked, and I think that the props selected (Gethin Jenkins, Adam Jones, Andrew Sheridan, Phil Vickery & Euan Murray) are as some of the Lion's Coaches have deemed "Beasts." This tour is going to need beasts when we face the forwards of the Springboks.

Let's set the record straight: Obama and Fascism

2009-04-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

BECK: OK. I — first of all, am I wrong on this one, Sheldon? That what I'm seeing here is fascistic.

RICHMAN: You're not wrong. The only thing I would do is broaden your perspective a little bit. We've been on this road a very, very long time.

BECK: Oh, I think we've been on this road since Teddy Roosevelt. And — I mean, look, I want to show you something. This is — explain what this is. Do you have feedback? This is that — this is all the sticks bound together in the axis. It's the Roman symbol of fascism?

RICHMAN: This is what the fascists in Italy used as their symbol, which was this Roman depiction of a bundle of rods bound together with an ax coming out the top, which I assume is a symbol of a collective unity and force of power.

Nothing like two people talking about things they don't understand. Glenn Beck of Fox News claims this week that Obama is leading us into Fascism. Fascism, really? There are so many things I want to say in response to this. Firstly, I have to throw it out there that Beck obviously does not know what Fascism is. Secondly, let me say if anything, America has been semi-fascist for a while. We force our children make Pledges to the Flag. While everyone may attack me for that, that is in it's essense the sort of principals Mussolini (the Father of Fascism) had. A Patriot would choose to pledge his allegience to a political party, or a nationalistic institution. Children who are forced to pledge aren't really being patriotic, they are simply doing what they are told. So, in my mind, that is fascist. Regardless, let's get back to this whole mess. I'm not the biggest Obama supporter, but what he's done with his first overseas trip is far from promoting fascism in America. He's, to a lot of people's shagrin, appologized for America being a-holes when it comes to international policy. In the past, we have exercised the principles of isolationism and elitism. Those reak more of Fascism, than the new policy of making ammends.

BECK:I'm saying the government under Bush and under Obama and under all of the presidents that we've seen or at least most of the presidents that we've seen for quite some time are slowly but surely moving us away from our republic and into a system of fascism.

I think Beck is getting to hot and heavy about socialism and is thinking of the scariest thing he can say to people like my mom and grandmother who watch Fox News everyday. The question I have to ask is, what is so wrong with socialism? What's wrong with helping people out? I'm not saying that we don't have a flawed system, but socialism is the modern way society has moved. Look at the struggles people went through before the West socialized. Life was tough, and there was no help. Now we look at ourselves and say, as a Nation we are doing well, so no one that lives here should have to suffer. Why? Because they don't have too. There is plenty to go around. Isolationism and Elitism got us nowhere.
In short, Glenn Beck is an idiot and is spreading fear to get ratings. It's not cool.

New Movie Alert!: "The Hangover"

2009-04-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you put Zach Galianakis, Ed Helms, and Bradley Cooper in a movie directed by Todd Phillips (the dude that directed "Old School")? Apparently something awesome. Might I also mention that Heather Graham appears to have a cameo as some sexy trailer trash and Mike Tyson playing Mike Tyson? Sounds like a winner.

New Music Alert!: Loo & Placido Mix

2009-04-02T14:27:00.000-07:00

So, Loo & Placido have been doing mixes for a while. I'm no expert, but I've been getting various (mostly from NRJ) for a couple of years. Anyway, I got this as a podcast, but it's up everywhere to download, because it's awesome. AWESOME. Download it to your iPod and Upload it to your Eardrums. Bam!

Loo & Placido: Neon Noise Indie 103 FM Mix

"6 Nations Champions, Triple Crown Winners, Grand Slam Victors: Ireland the Green Machine!" or " Another Kiwi Chokes: The Warren Gatland Story"

2009-03-22T11:09:00.001-07:00

"6 Nations Champions, Triple Crown Winners, Grand Slam Victors: Ireland the Green Machine!"
or
" Another Kiwi Chokes: The Warren Gatland Story"

Living in America makes it difficult to enjoy live Rugby. I'm not saying I don't get to watch the matches that I want to see, but seeing them as they unfold is a different story. So, Sunday morning, the 22 of March 2009 I woke up to download a pre-recorded copy of the Ireland vs. Wales 6 Nations Championship Match. The match had actually taken place yesterday (Sat. 21 March) and I had cleverly avoided all calls, texts, emails, facebook postings, myspace postings and postings on The Rugby Forum regarding the match results.
The build up to this match was intense. Ireland have won Triple Crowns in my day. They have won the 6 Nations too. What Ireland have failed to do is win the Grand Slam (beating every nation in the competition) since 1948. 61 long years Irish Rugby Fans have waited for this sort of victory. It was there in our grasps, except that our last match was against the only other team in the 6 Nations that might really cause us harm, Wales. Warren Gatland, the boss for Wales, and a Kiwi, had been talking rubbish to the media during the week. Ireland Boss Declan Kidney responded with silence. He knew that the proof was in the puding and not in the reading aloud of the recepie.
Needless to say, if you haven't guessed by reading the title of my article, Ireland Win! The thing is, until the final whistle blew, you wouldn't know.
I examine how tense I was watching and can only imagine how the players felt. Donnacha O'Callahan was taking his stress out on the Welsh and getting caught, causing penalties that erroded away an Irish lead. Ireland technically put it to the Welsh by keeping them in defense for most of the game. The Irish retained ball possesion for the majority of the game yet barely capitalized. The whole first half, for me at least, seemed filled with almosts: almost scoring, almost breaking through, almost taking the lead. Wales, while on the back foot, proved to be as dangerous as the pundits had predicted and took advantage of any and all mistakes.
O'Driscols Try at the start of the second half display the heart of Ireland. His determination to push and stretch to earn that try along with his massive forwards made my heart soar. B'OD's efforts deservadly earned him the Man of the Match award from the BBC commentators. Surely the B&I Lions will be looking at him and the other Irish star, Paul O'Connell, for captainacy on the upcoming tour to South Africa.
O'Connell's efforts unhinged the Welsh linouts. Time after time you saw him doing the hard work, earning the hard yards, and keeping the spirits up in the Irish Pack. Credit also has to go to Ireland's most capped player John Hayes for his strength and rucking.
All in all this was an excellent piece of dramatics for the climax of the 6 Nations 2009. Ireland can now finally say they've done what they set out to do.
VIDEO LINK
VIDEO LINK

’S an bíobha i raon na bpiléar agaibh, Seo libh, canaídh Amhrán na bhFiann!

2009-03-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

"’S an bíobha i raon na bpiléar agaibh, Seo libh, canaídh Amhrán na bhFiann!"
The English Translation is "Out yonder waits the Saxon foe, So chant a soldier’s song!" It is the last line in the Irish National Anthem. Although we're not facing the Saxon's today, we are facing the Welsh in what should be a massive match! Ireland are up for the Grand Slam. What is this "Grand Slam?" To win a Grand Slam is to beat every opponent in the 6 Nations Rugby Tournament (participant nations are: Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales, France, Italy). The last time Ireland pulled this feat off was 61 years ago. So, today, more than any other day, we need to be Chanting a Soldier's Song! C'mon Ireland!

Lá Fhéile Pádraig: St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T12:58:00.001-07:00

Today, as they say, is a great day to be Irish. A day when regardless of ancestral ties, most people claim to be Irish (at least some part). In America, bars and restaurants roll in the kegs of cheap, non-irish beers died green, and hang up pictures of leprechauns and clovers. Very few people will question what this day is about. I'm not saying that I don't enjoy the party, I love it. However, I feel we must take a moment to honor the reason for this celebration: St. Patrick. In my opinion, and in the opinion of the religious in Ireland, St. Patrick was one of the most amazing men in all of Christendom. A man driven by conviction and dedication to Christ.

"I bind to myself today The strong virtue of the Invocation of the Trinity: I believe the Trinity in the Unity The Creator of the Universe. I bind to myself today The virtue of the Incarnation of Christ with His Baptism, The virtue of His crucifixion with His burial, The virtue of His Resurrection with His Ascension, The virtue of His coming on the Judgement Day. I bind to myself today The virtue of the love of seraphim, In the obedience of angels, In the hope of resurrection unto reward, In prayers of Patriarchs, In predictions of Prophets, In preaching of Apostles, In faith of Confessors, In purity of holy Virgins, In deeds of righteous men. I bind to myself today The power of Heaven, The light of the sun, The brightness of the moon, The splendour of fire, The flashing of lightning, The swiftness of wind, The depth of sea, The stability of earth, The compactness of rocks. I bind to myself today God's Power to guide me, God's Might to uphold me, God's Wisdom to teach me, God's Eye to watch over me, God's Ear to hear me, God's Word to give me speech, God's Hand to guide me, God's Way to lie before me, God's Shield to shelter me, God's Host to secure me, Against the snares of demons, Against the seductions of vices, Against the lusts of nature, Against everyone who meditates injury to me, Whether far or near, Whether few or with many. I invoke today all these virtues Against every hostile merciless power Which may assail my body and my soul, Against the incantations of false prophets, Against the black laws of heathenism, Against the false laws of heresy, Against the deceits of idolatry, Against the spells of women, and smiths, and druids, Against every knowledge that binds the soul of man. Christ, protect me today Against every poison, against burning, Against drowning, against death-wound, That I may receive abundant reward. Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ within me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ at my right, Christ at my left, Christ in the fort, Christ in the chariot seat, Christ in the poop [deck], Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me, Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks to me, Christ in every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me. I bind to myself today The strong virtue of an invocation of the Trinity, I believe the Trinity in the Unity The Creator of the Universe."

This is the voice of the man who single-handedly converted an island of people only united by their dark druidic practices. What great things could we do if we invoked Christ upon our lives in the manor that Patrick did every day? In America the celebration started by none other than General George Washington who saw it fit to give the Irish Regiments under his command a holiday “as an act of solidarity with the Irish in their fight for independence." St. Patrick's Day and America go hand in hand. America would be nothing today without the flood of Irish Immigrants who built the skyscrapers of NYC, who built the railroads for the Western Expansion and the Manifest Destiny, who fought in our War for Independence and our Civil War. So, if you find yourself enjoying a green-died beer, take a moment to recognize what it is that you are celebrating and honor St. Patrick and those Irish that went on before us.

Sláinte Mhaith ("Good Health" or "Cheers"),

Nate Rowlan (Ó Rothláin)

6 Nations: Ireland beat France!

2009-02-09T07:03:00.000-08:00

You all know I'm going to be riding high on this all week. Ireland, this weekend, beat France 30-21 showing the form that we expected to see during the RWC. I was thrilled to see D'Arcy's return, even if he just came on as a blood sub, he made his mark scoring a brilliant try (see above picture). The greatest thing about this is beating France at the beginning of the tournament as for the last few years they have been the team that have given us the most strife.

John Kerry and Andrew Jackson are the same Man.

2009-02-08T11:59:00.001-08:00

Yeah...it's freaky, right? John Kerry could play Andrew Jackson in a play or a Andrew Jackson action movie. When I randomly realized this strange mystery of the universe, I had to share it. Wow.

I Created a Promo Video for TRF! Wooo!

2009-01-11T09:06:00.000-08:00

There it is in all it's glory. My first attempt at Youtubing...

Mike Tyson: WTF?

2008-12-18T10:06:00.000-08:00

Mike Tyson, what happened to you? I saw this picture and had to post it up. Not much to say, but, Wow, someone likes the pies. Anyone else think he's starting to resemble King Hippo?I loved Mike Tyson's Punch out when I was a kid!

Rugby League Ireland: Now What?

2008-12-15T23:42:00.000-08:00

After a brilliant showing at the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, what is next for the Irish National team? Rugby Union is still battling it out in Ireland to claim the #3 spot behind GAA and Football. Where does another field sport like League fit in? In a non-league nation surely RL seams a bit like RU's little brother. Is there now a more serious platform developing on the Emerald Isle? I hope. I don't want to take away from Union, as that is my first love, but surely there is a market out there for league. Wales have their first team competing in the Super League. Should Ireland aim for the same? Who are the Irish Supporters? Who are the Irish Players? Where does Ireland RL go from here? I don't have any real questions, but hope there are more of you out there asking these same questions, and that the awareness of League grows in Ireland. Either way, well done to the boys in green. I hope we can build on this and make it to a semi-final next go 'round.

New Music Alert!: Goshi Goshi

2008-12-03T08:04:00.000-08:00

I don't have tons of info on Goshi Goshi, to be honest. I know they're from London. Kissy Sell Out played them this past weekend on his Radio 1 show and their single "The Lock Stop" blew my mind. It sounds like 2 '80's Arcade Games making sweet love (I like to Picture Pac Man and Androids!). It's great stuff. So, I scoured the internet super highway and found the link below. Enjoy, but enjoy responsibly.

Clique Ici!

Munster vs New Zealand

2008-11-20T20:38:00.000-08:00

Back in the day a touring National Rugby Team would play club sides. 20 years ago the All Blacks toured Ireland and traveled to the southwest province of Munster. They were beat.
New Zealand come back to Munster 20 years later for the rematch. The All Blacks are traveling just having beat Ireland at the weekend looking to bowl over Munster. The Red Army were having none of that. I won't divulge too much info as I know some people have yet to watch the match. I just encourage you to watch it if you haven't seen it, or go read about it from a proper news agent.
What I will do is present the start up to one of the most intense matches I have ever been lucky enough to view. Haka vs Haka:

The New Star Trek! No, not the Next Generation, it's the old generation, but new...get it?

2008-11-20T13:24:00.001-08:00

So, my condolences go out to one of my all time favourite actors: William Shatner. I watch you every week on "Boston Legal" and laugh at your jokes and your funny character. I like the fact that you are able to make fun of yourself, and just enjoy being the person you are. Therefore I find it an outrageous shame that you, our dear friend and mentor are not playing Captain Kirk in the new Star Trek film. I've got to be honest, it doesn't even make sense. If I were to remake "Home Alone" I'd still cast Macaulay Culkin, wouldn't I? Of Course I Would! He's that Home Alone Kid! And William Shatner is Star Trek...uhm I mean Captain Kirk! Regardless, he's been passed up to resume his role (it makes no sense, it's like recasting Santa Claus) by some kid. I don't know his name, and I may never want to.
Regardless of all of this, the trailer looks cool. Not as cool as it would had Shatner played Shatner...uhm, I mean Cpt. Kirk, but still it looks cool. Here's a clip, enjoy it if you can. I still can't get my head wrapped around a fake Shatner, but c'est la vie!

Kids, Stay away from the Crack Rock...Just ask our friend Amy.

2008-11-18T07:44:00.000-08:00

Miss Amy Winehouse born 14 September 1983. That makes Amy only 25. She's not only a talented musician, but a musician who's been recognized, given a record contract and put out an album that was very well received. So why is she pissing it all away? I really don't have an answer. I just saw a photo this morning and was like, "Didn't I think she was fairly cute when she first came out? Was I on crack?" So, I dug up older photos and voila! She once had looks on her side as well.

I present to you the biggest argument to stay off of drugs:

Celebs urge Dumbasses to Vote

2008-10-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

Hey. Remember Voting? That "right" we believe we have in Western Society? Oh, I forgot, your to stupid to read. Only if, through the power of mass media, we could get someone to explain to you the importance of voting, because, obviously we want uneducated morons like yourself deciding the fate of our complex world.
Thankfully, a crapload of celebs got together and have done just this. They are reaching out to those people, too dumb to keep up with current affairs, to make difficult choices about the direction of a Nation they take for granted everyday.

I've just realized that I am indeed a bit more elitist than I had previously believed.

Paparazzi

2008-09-25T07:31:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to solve any world crisis with this blog, but I thought I'd share my thoughts. I saw a video this morning of British Celeb, Katie Price (aka "Jordan") going for a trip through town. As I watched several thoughts came to my mind:
1. How annoying would this be day in and day out?
2. I can clearly see why celebs have a inflamed sense of importance
3. I would eventually flip out and hit someone

Anyway, just initial reactions. Watch the video for yourself and put yourself in the celebs shoes.

So, where do we get the name Paparazzi? I'm sure you are deeply and passionately curious about the origins of the term. It actually comes from Federico Fellini's 1959 film, La dolce vita. He named the annoying photographer in the film "Paparazzo" which is the singular version of Paparazzi. So, by it's own definition these guys are annoying.

There's a pearl of wisdom for you today.

Sarah Palin, Sarah Palin, Sarah Palin

2008-09-15T11:28:00.000-07:00

Okay...so, honestly, I'm not obsessed with the current Governor of Alaska and Republican VP Nominee, Sarah Palin. It's just she's caused as much commotion on the internet as Britney Spears' lack of panty wearing. So, some good parodies have come out and I thought I'd share them. I have to say, the first thing I said to someone when I saw Palin, was, "Holy Crap, John McCain just nominated Tina Fey!"

And if that isn't enough for you, Gina Gershon decides to do a little impression that you might love a little bit:

See more Gina Gershon videos at Funny or Die

Sarah Palin: "Like a Really Bad Disney Movie"

2008-09-11T07:05:00.001-07:00

Matt Damon, yes, "How you like them apples", held an interview with CBS. His comments about Republican VP Nominee Sarah Palin are more than funny, they bring up a pretty good point.

I have to agree a bit with Matt Damon on the whole Disney Movie analogy. I swear he probably got pitched that script from Disney like 3 years ago and turned it down.
Funny stuff.

New Music Alert!: Justice + Homme Dior = Schwing!

2008-09-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I like to be awesome and drop love on everyone. That sometime is right now. Homme Dior asked Justice to do their runway music for the Spring/Summer 09 Show. So, fashion is catching on to the sweet, badassness that is Justice.
Apparently this isn't new as I also found out that the same thing happened last year when Louis Vuitton asked an equally if not more amazing duo to do the same thing: Daft Punk. Really? Where have I been? Where have you been? Where have any of us been? This is news to me. I'm thrilled, I'm pumped and I'm sharing the love with you.

Justice - Homme Dior S/S09

Daft Punk - Louis Vuitton Paris 08

Sarah Palin: MILF for VP!

2008-09-05T16:06:00.000-07:00

Sarah Palin: Governor of Alaska, Self-Proclaimed "Hokey Mom", Mother of a Soldier, Mother of a baby with the "DS", Mother of a soon to be Mother, Wife of a dude who stands in a suit and has some sort of rugged Alaskan Job. Now she wants to be Vice President of America. Remember when women couldn't vote, couldn't run for office and by that days and ages medical understanding had smaller brains? Well, Sarah Palin may shoot you if you agreed with your grandpa. She's already declared war on bears.
So, when you vote please consider that we have a hot chick who loves guns who just wants to help America. I'd let her help me. Obviously on a political level.

What Happend to the Spirit of the 60's?

2008-08-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

I sat on campus yesterday listening to "The White Album." "Revolution" came on. It's a great song. Today, though, it hit me. People my age a little over 30 years ago wanted to change the world. They protested. They wrote songs. They demonstrated. They eventually ran for office. You know what? They did change the world.
What happened to that spirit? A college campus in the 60's was filled with political debate and radicalism. Today it's filled with status quo and conformity. I feel the optimism, hope and sense of "all power to the people" has died. Yes, I tend to be a bit of a socialist.
I'm sitting here tonight after watching a trailer for a movie called "Chicago 10" and I'm just a bit saddened by my generation and the generation under me. Our love of possessions and our materialistic viewpoint are destroying our society. Society by definition is social. Social is not a lone person. Today we are a society of one. (Sorry for stealing your tagline Army). It's a bit "everyman for himself."
Where did the love go from the summer of love? Did it fade away? Did it die?
Lennon said "Don't you know it's gonna be alright." Today I don't.

Central Rugby vs. Oklahoma Crusaders

2008-08-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

UCORFC vs OKC Crusaders

We warmed up for our upcoming collegiate season this weekend with a practice match versus the Oklahoma City Crusaders Rugby Club. The first half was fairly in our favor with the boys playing quite well. In fact it's some of the best rugby I've seen come from my boys. However things sort of fell apart during the second half and the much rugby-wiser men's club picked apart our weak points and capitalized on them. We only lost by 2 trys. Even though we lost, there are a lot of positives to take away as we prepare this week for OSU. Check out the pictures courtesy of Mr. Bo Apitz.

New Music Alert!: WTF Natalie Portman? OMG!

2008-07-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

Hi. So I love Natalie Portman just a little...just a little. Anyway, she's dating some dude named Devendra Banhart who's aparently some sort of awesome musician.
Have fun with this video. You'll then understand the title of this blog posting.

Tim McGraw is a Bad Ass.

2008-06-25T20:01:00.000-07:00

Let me preface this by saying I don't like country music, nor am I a fan of the whole country music "scene". Having said that, Tim McGraw gets all my respect. He's a Bad Ass.

Here's the lowdown, some fatass redneck in jean shorts, a wife-beater and a cowboy hat rushes the stage and hits a woman. Tim McGraw was having none of that at his show. Here is what happend:

So, in conclusion, I may not like your music, Mr. McGraw, but I like your style. You're good people in my book.

New Music Alert!: Calvin Harris + Dizzee Rascal

2008-06-09T20:23:00.000-07:00

DANCE WIV ME
So, it's been a while since I hit you all with a New Music Alert, but this one was well worth the wait. Two Heavyweights team up to blow the doors off your car and make the girls dance with "Dance Wiv Me." Calvin Harris provides the beats and vibe for Dizzee's grande rapping style. I can't get enough of this track.

Here's the video, and sorry...no free downloads of it available...believe me, I've looked.
http://www.myspace.com/calvinharristv

EDIT: After more searching I found this...
http://butterteam.com/13%20Dance_Wiv_Me.mp3
It's the original w/o Chrome (who's singing is featured in the video).

I ♥ Flip Flops

2008-06-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

I ♥ Flip Flops.
Yes, you read correctly...I [heart] Flip Flops. I've always thought they were great. Now I think they are the most amazing thing ever. Why? See Below.
Advertisers are clever sometimes...

Munster Win Heineken Cup: Nate Rowlan is always right.

2008-05-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

Munster edged out French favourites Toulouse to clutch the Heineken Cup Trophy becoming the Champions of Europe. I personally feel the second half display by the Munster Forwards is what impressed me the most. Having said that, I am a forward and I love to see the pack work it hard. The sheer amount of ball retention and grinding away of the clock by the Munstermen left Toulouse frustrated.
Pat Geraghty of MunsterRugby.ie had this to say:

Munster have been crowned as Heineken Cup champions for the second time in three years after a 16-13 win over Toulouse in Saturday's final at the Millennium Stadium.A try from Denis Leamy, coupled with a Ronan O'Gara conversion and penalty, allowed Munster to build a 10-6 half time lead, However the French side brought things level at 13-13 mid-way through the second half before Ronan O'Gara slotted his third penalty to ease Munster back into the driving seat.
The Munster pack, with man of the match Alan Quinlan to the fore then starved Toulouse of possession to ensure that Paul O'Connell was able to lift the trophy and send Declan Kidney off to his new role as Ireland coach with a final success.

If you didn't get to see the match here are the highlights:

The Crystal Skull...Quit Allowing George Lucas To Ruin His Franchises!!!

2008-05-24T05:57:00.000-07:00

Let me start out by saying I am a huge Indiana Jones fan. These movies are some of my greatest childhood memories. It may be a bit laughable, but it's what got me really interested in History and probably the reason I'm pursuing a masters (and eventually PHD) in the subject.

SPOILER ALERT: I'M ABOUT TO DISCUSS THIS FILM AT LENGTH

However, this movie was a complete disappointment. George Lucas is ruining his own franchises. I read in so many articles about how many scripts he rejected. Really? You were super picky about this script and this was the one you picked? I have no complaints about the acting or filming. Harrison Ford was brilliant. All the other actors played their parts excellently. The problem was the actual movie. Lucas strayed from the formula. This is like Rocky V. In the rest of the films one feels as if he's figuring things out with Indiana. Not in this film. It seems a bit dummed down. Things are just kind of explained to you. The romance seemed forced. I don't have a problem with him getting married, it just felt odd. I had no problem with Mutt being his son, that was kind of inevitable. Dr. Jones is getting older, the Nazis had been defeated and I think the Soviet Union was a great idea for an enemy. That was good. Let me get to my biggest problem: Aliens, UFOs, Area 51. These movies have always been intertwined with the religious supernatural, but I don't think Aliens really fit the bill. These Crystal Skull things actually do exist. However they aren't the enlogated skull, alieny looking things in the film (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_skull). In itself those are a bit mysterious...are they a hoax, or are they real? I just don't like tying them in with Roswell, ect... So, I don't mean to really ruin it, but from a historical standpoint the previous movies at least included actual historical mystery. The Raiders of the Lost Ark, followed an exact theory of where the Ark of the Covenant could have ended up. The Temple of Doom follows a mixture of old world blood thirsty cult practices. The Last Crusade follows the myths and legends of the Holy Grail. I can go on and on, but they follow a model of some historical accuracy (based on legends and accounts debated by modern historians and archaeologists) mixed with fun and action. The Legend of the Crystal Skull deviates from this. The Skulls at their best carry a new-agey power vibe. The legends aren't associated with aliens at all. I can't find one reference that even makes it a legitimate theory. I understand that we don't watch Indiana Jones for exact historical accuracy, but the historical side of it is what has always kept it interesting. The historical details of this are really forced, vague connections made by a desperate Lucas who is probably scared that the National Treasure franchise has taken his last idea for the film. Too bad we all already saw Stargate. Needless to say, this movie left me feeling a bit depressed. I was so hyped up for it. As a die-hard Indiana Jones fan, it in no way lived up to the trilogy. Despite all this, it was great to see Harrison Ford pick up the role again...he is as much of a legend as his character.

Nate Rowlan Says, "Munster Will Win The H-Cup!"

2008-05-23T13:23:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow a great game will be played in the Millennium Stadium (Cardiff, Wales). The Heineken Cup Final between Munster and Toulouse will be an epic clash of Irish Muscle versus French Flair. Who will win? Munster. I said it...Munster.
I've watched both teams, and honestly (not just my Irish Pride) feel that Munster have what it takes to take the cup back home. This will be Munster Coach Declan Kidney's last duty before he heads to take the reigns of the Irish National Team.
Irish and Munster Flanker David Wallace had this to say, "He has led us to all the finals, and it would be great to give him another trophy."
RTÉ (Ireland's National News Organization) has said that Munster "are on the brink of proving that they deserve to be ranked alongside Leicester, Wasps and Toulouse as one of the greats of the first flowering of professional European rugby." They also commented that this has been the best ever in terms of quality of play.
I'm personally excited and can't wait to watch this match.
C'Mon Munster!!!!

A Dream is Born...

2008-05-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

Anyone else been watching American Gladiators? Well, I have. What's caught my attention is a certain female Gladiator, Helga.
She's 6'1, and like 200 lbs. I think destiny is knocking, and I'm going to answer. I'm 6'5 and well, a good 90lbs heavier than Helga. So...I'm just saying, we could make a mega-baby, her and I. A new race of blond hair, blue eyed, gladiators. Oh, crap...now I've gone and sounded like Hitler.
Regardless, Call Me.

¡It's Cinco de Mayo!

2008-05-05T13:48:00.000-07:00

¡It's Cinco de Mayo! What does that mean? I always assumed it was like a Mexicany version of St. Patrick's Day.
So, here's to you Mexico, with your 1/3 of North American, and your great spring break destinations, and your cuisine which we all love here in America but will complain that all the chef jobs are actually taken by Mexicans, and your pinatas, and your cervezas, and your Ricky Martins!

Jessica Rabbit...

2008-04-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

I clearly remember seeing "Who Framed Roger Rabbit?" and finding myself clearly focused on one thing...or person...or cartoon. Yeah, I know it's odd, but I think for a lot of guys my age this movie came out just as we were getting into girls, but were still into cartoons (who am I kidding, I'm still into girls and cartoons). Anyway, Disney definitely pushed the envelope with Jessica Rabbit. So, years have passed and now every woman I meet is subconsciously held up to her standard...
Well, one graphic designer has taken it to the next level and has shown us exactly what a real life version of her would look like.

(Click the above image and check out the detail)How did this wizard do this? How does anyone person have this much free time? All these questions and more will be answered in our short film presentation. Be prepared to be amazed:

Oh...this guy has also done Mario and Homer, but c'mon, it was always going to be a post about Jessica Rabbit.
http://pixeloo.blogspot.com/

En Français: Timbaland "The Way I Are" ft. Tyssem

2008-04-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

I've been bumping this tune since late last summer (2007). Obviously I didn't have a blog of this sort back then, so I didn't share it. So, as I was listening to it today, I thought, "here's what all my friends need! A French Version of Timbaland!" Tyssem steps in to redo the female vocals on the track en français ("in french" if you are completely socially retarded).
Tyssem does a great job on matching the original feel of the song. Who is she? She's a french chick. Oo La La, non? Oui, tres belle!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyssem

So, if you want this here is a site that hosts it:
http://www.divshare.com/download/launch/1991171-722
Cheers!

Popemobile...yeah, I gotta get me one of those!

2008-04-20T13:52:00.001-07:00

Yeah...Have you seen the new Popemobile? It's smooth. I want one. That's really all I have to say. So, make it happen: Popemobile.

Bill Maher is a Douchebag

2008-04-18T19:58:00.000-07:00

Listen, I have no problem with people poking fun at religion and the idea of religion. Family Guy does it all the time. However, pointed jokes like Maher's in regards to the Pope cross a line with me. Unfortunately we live in a world where people get their real political and social news from shows like Bill Maher, the Daily Show and The Colbert Report. I'm not criticizing the latter two, but just saying if that is the only place you get your political and social commentary, you are missing out on factual news. I personally find John Stewart hilarious, so don't get me wrong, but I appreciate him because I also watch real news, and read real reports. Anyway, back to the point. Bill Maher is a Douchebag. The Pope and Catholics cannot be lumped in with a religious cult out in Texas. I'm not a fan of the Mormon Church, but I don't put the actions of this small group on them. Likewise how can the actions of some Priests be put upon all Catholics let alone The Current Pope or The Former Pope? Also statements made about the Pope Benedict having been a Nazi are completely unfounded and far from the factual truth. If you haven't guessed it, or don't know, I am a Catholic. So, this is probably why it's pissed me off so much. I can handle satire. I cannot, however, handle blatant, unfounded attacks. So, more likely than not, if I ever see Bill Maher, I will do the very un-Christian thing and knock the ____ out of him. I'm just sayin'...

Sympathy for the Devil?

2008-04-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

Let me get it out of the way that I'm not posting a youtube video whilst hiding under a blanket and crying "Leave Britney Alone."
So, Britney Spears. We all know her music, we all know her drama, we all "know" Britney. I saw a video posted today that made me check my judgmental thoughts. Here is Ms. Spears trying to workout yesterday and she cannot escape the Paparazzi.

Now, has she played up to them? Sure she has. However it made me think...Wouldn't this sort of lifestyle "Drive Me Crazy?" I'm just trying to imagine every move I make being recorded and photo'd by a bunch of twats asking me personal questions. I seriously think I'd go a bit mad myself. So, maybe today, as the title suggests, I have a bit of sympathy for Briters. I'll probably regret typing this...

"Wo" Manly advert

2008-04-11T07:05:00.000-07:00

Melbourne Storm v Manly Sea Eagles. This is a big Australian Rugby League Fixture (NRL). Check out the advert posted (and mailed to supporters and chairmembers) online:

Obviously this fueled a big slagging match. I have to say, Well Done Storm.

MIXMAG is 25

2008-04-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that Mixmag is 25. It's hard to believe how much dance music has evolved in those 25 years. It's hard to believe DJ's like Pete Tong have been doing their stuff since the mid to late 70's. Dance music always seems so fresh, but let's face it, it's not new.
So, Cheers, Mixmag. Well done on 25 years of great articles and great music!

http://www.mixmag.net

Guinness Launches New Product: Guinness White!

2008-04-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

Guinness is launching it's newest product today: Guinness White. It is hitting pubs everywhere with rave reviews. According to Guinness:

A pint of the black stuff becomes a pint of the white stuff with the launch of a creamier new version: "Guinness White".

Guinness White is made from the same raw ingredients as regular Guinness Draught - hops, barley, water and yeast, but the barley is frozen instead of roasted, which provides the white colour.

Anyone else excited? If your pub/bar/hole in the wall doesn't have it on tap yet call them and demand a "Pint of the White Stuff!" today.

April Fools, beeatches!

New Music Alert!: Black Kids

2008-03-31T06:56:00.000-07:00

Black Kids make great music. No, I'm not racially stereotyping here, I'm talking about the band Black Kids, who coincidentally may or may not actually be black kids. Maybe black refers to the colour of their souls? I don't really know. What I do know is that I like their sound. It reminds me a bit of The Go! Team but different. Was that vague enough for you?
Their song "I'm Not Going To Teach Your Boyfriend How To Dance With You" is catchy. Let me note that the lead singer is a dude on this song, and somehow the lyrics confuse me just a wee bit, but regardless it's a bit infectious.
Check them out:
http://www.myspace.com/blackkidsrock

...and lastly a special present, The Twelves Remix!!! Get it Here

Hooray, Rugby Cheer Girls!

2008-03-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

Well, I could go on and on about the topical highlights that Rugby Cheer Girls bring to mind, or I could just put up some pictures...
I think I'm going to just put up the pictures. Thanks Super 14, you're, uhm...Super!And, a dash of video...

New Music Alert!: SoKo

2008-03-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

From Where? From Paris. I feel like I'm going to keep typing Paris, Paris, Paris for all the new, awesome artists emerging right now. Anyway, here she is: SoKo.
I guess technically speaking SoKo is not from Paris, but Bordeaux...however, Paris is the hub of the French music scene, so hanging out there is sort of a requirement.
http://www.last.fm/music/Soko
http://www.myspace.com/mysoko
http://sokomusic.com/
I first heard her song "I Will Never Love You More" on Zane Lowe's Radio 1 show on Valentines night. Let's just say, it sort of fits me at this moment in life. I know that I'm not the only one, as when I introduced it to my friends it quickly became someones profile song. Her sweet, innocent voice cuts hard with her blatantly honest lyrics. It's a great combination.
Maybe you'd like this song for your MP3 Player? Maybe you should clique ici.

New Music Alert!: The Ting TIngs

2008-03-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

"Great DJ" = Great Song. Yeah, my intro was that simple. Needless to say, I really love this tune. It's already been remixed by another great artist, Calvin Harris, and is everywhere I want to be...I know that doesn't make sense, but yet it somehow does. Regardless, LISTEN TO THE TING TINGS!!!

I'll let the music speak for itself...go find it and download it, as it won't be out in the US for a while.
http://www.last.fm/music/The+Ting+Tings

Lá Fhéile Pádraig

2008-03-17T06:39:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Around most of the English Speaking world the 17th of March is a day when "Everyone is Irish." Sounds a bit silly, right? But hey, can you blame the rest of the world? Irish people and our customs have penetrated western society and left a pretty big mark.
So what is St. Patrick's Day really all about? Is it green beer and stupid hats? Wearing green and eating corned beef? Or is it bigger than all of that? St. Patrick's Day (in the Irish Language: "Lá Fhéile Pádraig") is the Catholic feast day for Patrick the Apostle of Ireland. He is Ireland's Patron Saint (as well as my personal Patron Saint) and was the major force in converting Ireland to Christianity. We've all heard the story that St. Pat drove the snakes out of Ireland. Truth is snakes never really existed in Ireland, but it's an analogy for his driving of evil off of the island. Patrick used the Three Leaf Clover to explain the Holy Trinity to the Irish. On 17 March 387 St. Patrick Died at Downpatrick, Ireland. So for these reasons and many more St. Patrick has been celebrated the world over. Believe me, there is a lot more I can say, and have said concerning the politics and history of this day, but I'll save it for next year...

Let's jump straight to some things you can do to ensure you celebrate Paddy's Day properly:
1. Only use 3 Leaf Clovers, not 4 leaf.
2. Skip the Green Coloured Budweiser and order a Pint of Guinness, Smithwick's, Harp or Magner's.
3. Now is a good time to go buy U2's The Joshua Tree: 20th Anniversary Edition CD. They are Irish, and it may be one of the best Rock album's of all time.

So now you are bit more properly prepared to enjoy your celebration. For more reading visit the following sites:
Catholic Encyclopedia: St. Patrick
IrishSayings.com's St. Patrick's Day
History Chanel: St. Patrick's Day

Sláinte!

New Music Alert!: The Teenagers

2008-03-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's just me, but all good music seems to be flowing out of Paris right now. Enter The Teenagers, a synth, pop band that will make you laugh as much as they make you want to dance.
I stumbled on to them through myspace somehow and have been listening to them since. Their track "Homecoming" while a tad on the vulgar side, entertains my darker humour.
You can check them out here:
http://www.myspace.com/theteenagers
http://www.theteenagers.net/

New Music Alert!: Sam Sparro

2008-03-07T11:13:00.000-08:00

Sam Sparro, One Smoove Mutha [Hush yo Mouf]. The first time I heard his single "Black and Gold" I thought that possibly Gnarls Barkley's Cee-Lo had released an independent smooth jam. I guess the vocals remind me of him...call me crazy. Nevertheless, it wasn't Cee-Lo. It was Sam Sparro, a 24 year old white boy from L.A., who doesn't seem to fit the laid-back soulful vocals heard on his tracks. Apparently he was born in Australia and moved with his family to Cali at age 10. His bio from last.fm states he got his experience from the church choir. He wouldn't be the first to break out of the sanctuary to the dance floor.
Right now I'm listening to "Black and Gold" on loop. I haven't become tired of it yet. It's like Guinness: Smooth, creamy and good to the last drop. Mmmm, Guinness. Got myself sidetracked. Anyway, he's definitely worth checking out:

http://www.myspace.com/samsparro

...and if you like it, maybe just maybe I have a special gift for you if you click the link below...but, shhhhhh...you didn't get it from me...
"Black and Gold - Sam Sparro"

Justice Live In Dallas

2008-03-05T16:22:00.000-08:00

Amazing. That is the understatement of the year for me. Seeing Justice play live last night in Dallas was fookin' rad!
I traveled down to Dallas with my friend Bo (my trusty rugby fullback) and his girlfriend Ashley. We got to the Palladium Ballroom just in time.
As we arrive with our cameras and enthusiasm, we hear them telling people "No cameras!" I was like no f'ing way did I drive down here to have this experience and not get photographic evidence of the sheer awesome. I told Bo I was smuggling mine in. Down the pants, where no one would dare check...except for that dude wearing the lip gloss...he'd check.
Up first was DJ Mehdi (http://www.myspace.com/djmehdi), another Parisian like the duo from Justice (and most of the Ed Banger label). His set was a classic dance mashup. He seemed to be enjoying himself from the second he walked on stage. You could feel his enthusiasm, despite the fact that I commented, "I don't think the youth of Dallas are ready for this." However he dropped Daft Punk and everyone went nuts. He put his hands up and made the pyramid sign and everyone followed suit, like we were in some strange Daft Punker Cult. It was fantastic. Everyone went mental when he mixed in "Banquet" by Bloc Party. In my opinion he was the perfect setup for Justice, not to take away from how quality of a DJ he is...if he's live somewhere near you, go see him and bring me!

DJ Mehdi had warmed us up for an hour. The next 15 minutes seemed like an eternity. Then it happened: someone pulled the black tarps off of the Justice DJ booth. Daft Punk has their pyramid, Justice has their wall of sound. They kicked right off with "Genesis" and blasted the f___ing crowd into a frenzy. It didn't let up from there. I honestly have no clue how to describe to you how awesome it was. They looked like late 70's/early 80's punk rockers. They kept up the intensity and just looked like they were so happy doing what they do. Let's be honest, the midwest/southwest is not the epicenter for House/Dance/Electro. However they played it like it was Ibiza at mid-summer. I have a deep appreciation for their enthusiasm, love of the crowd and intensity. There were no lulls in the show, I couldn't believe it when they ended. We all were left screaming "Encore!" Finally they came back out and blasted us for another 15 -20 minutes. They dropped early Metallica. Yeah, I just typed that...Metallica, in a dance set. It was unreal. They pulled it off and made us all love it (except for one dude I met after the show. He was and most likely will always be a ginormous douchebag from the year 3000. He asked me perplexed, "You liked that crap?" I replied, "It was so good I think I'm pregnant.").
I don't know if I can fully sum up how Awesome of a show it was. Best concert/event EVER.
Luckily someone posted a video from the night, and I'll follow it up with a few more pictures. Moral of the story is, GO SEE JUSTICE!

http://www.myspace.com/etjusticepourtous

Drama: The Inevitable Dance

2008-03-04T12:11:00.000-08:00

In about one hour I will be hoping in my car with some friends to drive to Dallas, Texas (yeah that place where they had that 80's soap opera) to see Justice (yeah that band that one of my friends irreverently referred to as "chainsaw music"). I'm pumped. I can't wait. It is going to be awesome.
However I would just like to get one thing off of my chest. Why is Drama so inevitable? I do my best to avoid it. Maybe the problem is I deceive myself...maybe, just maybe I either a) attract drama, or b) subconsciously seek drama. I don't know. I hope I'm wrong and that it is just an inevitable aspect of life. Regardless, drama came knocking. In the past I think I would have tried to work things out and, as Justice have been urging me to do since last summer, do the dance (do the dance), but this time I'm just going to leave it. I don't need it. I'm not going to mediate what I can't control.
So in that light here are my top five songs dedicated to drama:

My Humps by The Black Eyed Peas = "You don't want no drama, No, no drama, no, no, no, no drama"
Rumours by Lindsay Lohan = " Why can't they back up off me, Why can't they let me live, I'm gonna do it my way, Take this for just what it is"
Haters by Hillary Duff = " Haters,Traitors to the human race, Haters, What a drag What a waste, I'd like to see them disappear, They dont belong anywhere, Haters"
My Prerogative by Bobby Brown = "Everybody's talking all this stuff about me, Why don't they just let me live? Tell me why I don't need commission, Make my own decisions, That's my prerogative, It's my prerogative
Every single song ever written by Avril Lavigne

So, there you have it. My musical tribute to Drama. So don't be hatin', and spreading rumours, because I'll do what I want to do including being a Sk8tr Boi, you don't want no drama from me.
Word.

I think that is quite possibly the worst song list of all time. I sound like a 14 year old girl who just got grounded from using the phone. Haters.

Winter is back? Oh, and I'm going to see Justice Live Tomorrow!!!

2008-03-03T06:11:00.000-08:00

Seriously, WTF happened to the weather? Saturday it was lovely. Sunday it was alright till around 6pm. Then the tornadic (I don't know if that is an official word, but it is now) weather kicked in and all hell broke loose. Now it's below freezing and the high temperature for the day is supposed to be 35 degrees. Ugh. I'm ready for the beach. I don't yet know how I'm going to get there, but I'm going to make it happen.
On a brighter note I'm traveling to Dallas tomorrow to see Justice! I'm really pumped about this. I've seen a few clips of their live sets and they look incredible (when I typed "incredible" please note I was saying it in my mind with a bad French accent). The duo from Paris have been rocking my headphones, stereo, car and everywhere else since last summer.

Check out the new video for DVNO. It's great. I love the whole retro-80's feel director "So Me" brings to the table. Here also are some live clips (one official):

So, the weather may be cold, but at least I have something of which to look forward...
I'll post some pictures up by Wednesday, fo sho.

UCORFC vs NSURFC and a housewarming party

2008-03-02T15:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday = Ouch.
It was a good day. It was a long day. It was a good, long day.
Let's start off where we should...THE RUGBY.
We made the 3 hour trip to The-Middle-of-Nowhere, Oklahoma. Yeah, it's an actual place, they even have a university there called NSU. The weather was perfect, temperature in the lower 70's, and just a slight breeze.
This was my club's (UCORFC) first full on representative match. We did impressingly well for having a few guys that had only played one week with us. We lost the match 25 to 14. Not too bad actually. They scored 5 trys without conversion and we scored 2 trys and converted both thanks to the boot of Bo Aptitz. Tyler "Redbeard the Pirate" McNamara scored both of our trys as he made his debut at Number 8 (the role of Chabal). What was impressive was the first try was scored off of the back of a 5 metre scrum that we powered over the try-line. It was a good day to be a forward.
After the match was the after party and then the long drive back. I arrived home in just enough time to grab another dose of ibuprofen, take a shower and head out to a house warming party. I don't actually remember much of last night. I'm fairly positive something happened involving an apple and the champagne of beers. Other than that this picture is the only clue I have. Good times. All in all it was a smashing day.

Rugby Time Action! Gooooo!

2008-02-29T21:26:00.000-08:00

01 March 2008 will be a day to be remembered.
Tomorrow morning we (The University of Central Oklahoma Rugby Football Club) will leave the confines of the city and head to Tallequah, the land of what used to be called the Red Men. Let me briefly pause to say that NSU (our opponents) had to change their name from "The Red Men" to "The River Hawks." What is sadly annoying about this is that our states name, Oklahoma, means land of the red man. So, FFS, someone think about it. Anyway, we are traveling as a full side...18 players. It's our first official match and I'm actually pretty confident.
We started off as a small group attempting what seemed the impossible back in the late summer: creating a full rugby team out of nothing. We've somehow pulled it off. We got a sponsor, we got kit, we got matches and then we got players. So, we embark on the second part of the chapter: Competition.
I'm excited. I'm anxious. I'm having a hard time going to sleep. It's a bit like Christmas morning for me.
I'll post pictures and a full report of the match right here on TONRB.

New Music Alert!: George Pringle

2008-02-28T10:02:00.000-08:00

George Pringle.
1. Not a Dude.
2. Not the dude from the Chips/Crisps package.

She's pretty. Let's move past that, however hard it may be (pun not originally intended, but post-writing appreciated) and focus on what is also very lovely: HER MUSIC. When I originally read about her someone was comparing her to Mike Skinner of "The Streets" fame. I can see where they get that. She's definitely a less poppy alternative to Lilly Allen (who I like, so that's not meant to be offensive).
Anyway, give her a listen...I think you'll love it.

Here is her blog: http://georgepringle.blogspot.com

Here is her myspace: http://www.myspace.com/georgepringle

Here is a page where you can actually for free (and legally) download 3 of her tracks: http://rcrdlbl.com/artists/George_Pringle/music

Ambivalence: I love you...I hate you!

2008-02-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

Ah, lovely Ambivalence. What does it truly mean?
I was once told by a learned professional that I, Nate Rowlan was "Rather Ambivalent." I was like "Thanks?"
I guess it took me a tad over 20 years of life to realize that you can both love and hate simultaneously. Can it be true? Surely not? Love is patient, Love is kind...there is a long list that I don't feel like typing because if you are not aware, I'm quite ambivalent about most things. Regardless I always assumed, or more likely deeply believed that you can't hate someone (or let's just randomly say "something" instead) you love.
So, am I like the Roman god Janus two faced? Am I both looking forward and backward? Does this ambivalence make me more perceptive, or does it make me more jaded? I've been told (by other "professionals") that ambivalence is good. "At least you feel something." However, am I waiting to grow out of ambivalence and embrace either the light or the dark side? Too many questions for me.
Wikipedia defines this state as,

an underlying emotional attitude in which the co-existing contradictory impulses (usually love and hate) derive from a common source and are thus held to be interdependent.

I would not, neither do I believe my friends would call me "indecisive." If they do, they're a bunch of pricks and I'm coming for you! Just kidding, I love you. OMG, was that a sign of ambivalence jut now??? Ambivalence does sound a lot like indecisiveness.
I stand at a crossroad in life. I love, I hate. It's extreme. The two seem to negate eachother, though. Most of the time I feel like I have no feelings at all. Then something will trigger an emotional response and I surprise myself. I'm left pondering "where did that come from?" I have a few close friends who have seen it. They've experience a small glimpse of either passion or rage. Don't get me wrong here, I'm not out of control breaking stuff in my room. Also, let's not get this confused with being bi-polar. I'm fo sho not that. Most of the time my emotions just sort of counter-balance eachother. That is until the scale is tipped. "Rock the boat, don't rock the boat baby."
I guess I will have to be ambivalent about ambivalence, I hate it, but I will embrace it and own it. I Nate Rowlan am ambivalent, and I will change the world through said ambivalence.

New Music Alert!: Gameboy/Gamegirl

2008-02-28T08:10:00.000-08:00

So, Here it is: Gameboy/Gamegirl.
Say What?! Exactly. This is a group out of Australia that are rocking the speakers out of my laptop. Their new LP "Sweaty Wet/Dirty Damp" drops on 08 March 2008 and I recommend you find it. Their electro-retro sound reminds me of dance-offs as a kid (you know...parachute pants and cardboard boxes).

Once you've seen the teaser for their record, check out their myspace: http://www.myspace.com/gameboygamegirl .
I assure you, more new music alerts to come!!!