I'm not sure how their current Holiday Bowl game will end against Washington, but I'm extremely disappointed in how Nebraska finished their 2010 season.
It's not about losses, it's the demeanor of the team.
Bo Pelini teams always play hard, but they weren't always "there," in my opinion, almost since they won at Oklahoma State.
They have been so inconsistent, and it's just something I've always hated about any team.
I was as loud as anyone about the "Big 12 Conspiracy" during the A&M game, but Nebraska has continued to make mistakes and ridiculous pre-snap or dead ball penalties.
They're doing it again tonight in falling behind Washington, 10-0.
Nebraska just scored to cut the lead to 10-7, but here are some obvious questions.
1) When was the last time Taylor Martinez really made a big play with his legs? Yes, I know he had the ankle sprain, but football is a physical game, get over it or let someone else play.
2) I know he's an easy target with his personality and sideline antics, but I love his passion. Yes, he needs to back off, calm down, grow up and mature. Hell, I did too throughout my lifetime. Those complaining about his stalking the sidelines and semi-tantrums were the same one's begging for some fire and energy and passion under Bill Callahan.
I know Nebraska football may never reach the greatness under Bob Devaney and Tom Osborne, but I sure would like to see them beat a handful of Top 25 teams each season.
But, who wouldn't?
They started winning some big games under Pelini, but they weren't winning big games on the road...so this season they go to Oklahoma State and beat a really talented and eventual 11-win team in a wild shootout.
I'm not sure the 'Huskers have played well on offense for 4-quarters since then. In fact, they haven't. And, whipping Colorado doesn't count.
They appeared to have everything straight with their 17-0 start against Oklahoma in the Big 12 Championship Game, but they went brain dead for the last three quarters.
Tonight, against Washington, they start down 10-0 with numerous penalties, including one late hit that kept a drive alive and two....CONSECUTIVE...delay of game penalties. Seriously?
This was a no-win game for Nebraska, they pummeled Washington in Seattle back in September and I mean whipped their...well, you know.
The rematch was going to be very difficult for Pelini & Company, and---if you don't mind another Big 12 conspiracy theory, Dan Beebe and his minions knew it. Nebraska was originally scheduled to play Iowa in the Insight Bowl in Phoenix. The Big 12 knew it would be a 3-4 hour Big Ten preview, love fest...they forced Nebraska to the Holiday Bowl. Not only did that keep the Big Ten love fest from happening, it put the 'Huskers in a tough situation against a team they thumped.
I don't blame any of this on the Big 12, I blame it on Nebraska for not taking care of business against Oklahoma when they led 17-0.
David Smoak
Thursday, December 30, 2010
What a difference a year makes...
Here I am on the deck of our house in Tyler, relaxing with my wife Cindy, our son Craig and his girlfriend, Mandee.
I'm enjoying a cigar, some Crown and Diet Coke, and about to watch Nebraska in the Holiday Bowl.
I hosted "You Make The Call" this afternoon from here on our back deck, took a lot of great calls and opinions, and tried to help wrap-up the 2010 Baylor football season.
We'll digest and discuss and even dig into more of the program throughout the upcoming off-season.
Obviously, after their loss to Illinois in the Texas Bowl, there's a lot of frustration and emotion from the Baylor fan base.
Today's show was their show, as it should be---although I hope that's the case every show.
Like any evening after the show, there's a little adrenalin rush, and then a little crash...a chance to decompress.
Now that I've had time to reflect back on the year, I'm glad it's ending yet sad at the same time.
A year ago at this time I was trying to figure out my future, knowing there was a chance coming up with ESPN Radio-Dallas, but not knowing exactly what those plans would be---part-time, weekends, full-time, no one was sure, especially not me.
But, after some quality time working with ESPN-Dallas Program Director Tom Lee and many others throughout the spring and into the early-summer...my opportunity came with a phone call from the owner of M&M Broadcasting, Gary Moss.
It was a Wednesday morning, it was before 8:00am, and he wanted to talk about their opening as program director at 1660ESPN Radio in Waco.
We talked for just a little while, decided to meet the following Monday, and within a week, everything was signed, sealed and delivered.
I started at 1660ESPN on June 22nd, went on the air for the first time on Monday, June 28th, and it's been one helluva ride ever since.
In fact, things have changed quite a bit, we're now 1660/106.9ESPN Radio-Central Texas.
1660 is a powerful frequency that at times can stretch from Dallas to Austin on I-35, but 106.9FM gives us coverage in the Killeen, Fort Hood, Kempner, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove and Gatesville at night---when our signal is affected during the late-fall and winter with the time change.
We have more changes (additions) coming down the pipeline, including another FM signal/translator in Waco and then Temple. It's just another chance for us to truly cover Central Texas.
Unlike most radio ownership groups, national groups or otherwise, M&M Broadcasting is looking to expand, to grow, and from all indications, we're not done.
It's been a nice ride since late-June and I can't wait for what we can accomplish as a station in 2011.
Happy New Year!
David Smoak
I'm enjoying a cigar, some Crown and Diet Coke, and about to watch Nebraska in the Holiday Bowl.
I hosted "You Make The Call" this afternoon from here on our back deck, took a lot of great calls and opinions, and tried to help wrap-up the 2010 Baylor football season.
We'll digest and discuss and even dig into more of the program throughout the upcoming off-season.
Obviously, after their loss to Illinois in the Texas Bowl, there's a lot of frustration and emotion from the Baylor fan base.
Today's show was their show, as it should be---although I hope that's the case every show.
Like any evening after the show, there's a little adrenalin rush, and then a little crash...a chance to decompress.
Now that I've had time to reflect back on the year, I'm glad it's ending yet sad at the same time.
A year ago at this time I was trying to figure out my future, knowing there was a chance coming up with ESPN Radio-Dallas, but not knowing exactly what those plans would be---part-time, weekends, full-time, no one was sure, especially not me.
But, after some quality time working with ESPN-Dallas Program Director Tom Lee and many others throughout the spring and into the early-summer...my opportunity came with a phone call from the owner of M&M Broadcasting, Gary Moss.
It was a Wednesday morning, it was before 8:00am, and he wanted to talk about their opening as program director at 1660ESPN Radio in Waco.
We talked for just a little while, decided to meet the following Monday, and within a week, everything was signed, sealed and delivered.
I started at 1660ESPN on June 22nd, went on the air for the first time on Monday, June 28th, and it's been one helluva ride ever since.
In fact, things have changed quite a bit, we're now 1660/106.9ESPN Radio-Central Texas.
1660 is a powerful frequency that at times can stretch from Dallas to Austin on I-35, but 106.9FM gives us coverage in the Killeen, Fort Hood, Kempner, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove and Gatesville at night---when our signal is affected during the late-fall and winter with the time change.
We have more changes (additions) coming down the pipeline, including another FM signal/translator in Waco and then Temple. It's just another chance for us to truly cover Central Texas.
Unlike most radio ownership groups, national groups or otherwise, M&M Broadcasting is looking to expand, to grow, and from all indications, we're not done.
It's been a nice ride since late-June and I can't wait for what we can accomplish as a station in 2011.
Happy New Year!
David Smoak
Monday, December 27, 2010
"Live" from the Westin Galleria, Houston on 1660/106.9ESPN Radio-Central Texas
Paul Catalina and I are broadcasting right now from the Westin Galleria in Houston, near and/or off Westheimer, Alabama and Sage Streets in Houston.
Great atmosphere, good discussion and topics, giving out hundreds of Bowl Towel's, mini-Baylor footballs and Baylor Nation arriving in full force.
Baylor AD Ian McCaw will join us at 4pm, former BU wide receiver, the "Ice Cube" Gerald McNeil in the 5pm hour, along with BU QB Robert Griffin III and RB Terrance Ganaway.
Oh yea, and Jennifer Floyd-Engel and Brad Sham talking Cowboys.
David Smoak
Great atmosphere, good discussion and topics, giving out hundreds of Bowl Towel's, mini-Baylor footballs and Baylor Nation arriving in full force.
Baylor AD Ian McCaw will join us at 4pm, former BU wide receiver, the "Ice Cube" Gerald McNeil in the 5pm hour, along with BU QB Robert Griffin III and RB Terrance Ganaway.
Oh yea, and Jennifer Floyd-Engel and Brad Sham talking Cowboys.
David Smoak
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas from the Smoak Family!
Cindy, Craig, Jennifer and I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas on this special day.
We appreciate your time, loyalty, support and commitment to our family and those who've made my first six-months in Central Texas so special.
Also, we appreciate all 23,600+ members to our website, Smoaky.com, and although my name is on the site, it belongs to those of you who are registered.
For the ninth consecutive year since the site was launched in July, 2002, we broke various records, including most online, along with the number of unique visitors, hits, views, and you name it, we accomplished it.
We couldn't have the success without each member, even those who make it a little more challenging for our mods and admins.
And, special thanks to our mods and admins who keep everything running with their hard work and tough decisions, our web host, Brian Welch and his staff at Perfect Presence, and our newest "Li'l Genius" Cesar Najera, from McLennan Community College who is about to help launch some subtle changes to our site.
Special thanks as well to my newest family, everyone within the walls of M&M Broadcasting and especially to those who have helped me at 1660/106.9ESPN Radio.
I cannot explain how much I've enjoyed Waco, Texas with real people, people who care, people who love sports and people who give back.
And finally, we all learn valuable and sometimes very tough lessons in life but through it all, we learn the value of our friends and family.
We consider all of you a part of our family.
Thank you and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
David Smoak
We appreciate your time, loyalty, support and commitment to our family and those who've made my first six-months in Central Texas so special.
Also, we appreciate all 23,600+ members to our website, Smoaky.com, and although my name is on the site, it belongs to those of you who are registered.
For the ninth consecutive year since the site was launched in July, 2002, we broke various records, including most online, along with the number of unique visitors, hits, views, and you name it, we accomplished it.
We couldn't have the success without each member, even those who make it a little more challenging for our mods and admins.
And, special thanks to our mods and admins who keep everything running with their hard work and tough decisions, our web host, Brian Welch and his staff at Perfect Presence, and our newest "Li'l Genius" Cesar Najera, from McLennan Community College who is about to help launch some subtle changes to our site.
Special thanks as well to my newest family, everyone within the walls of M&M Broadcasting and especially to those who have helped me at 1660/106.9ESPN Radio.
I cannot explain how much I've enjoyed Waco, Texas with real people, people who care, people who love sports and people who give back.
And finally, we all learn valuable and sometimes very tough lessons in life but through it all, we learn the value of our friends and family.
We consider all of you a part of our family.
Thank you and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
David Smoak
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Closing in on a "Merry Christmas"
Christmas Day is three days away and I'll be returning to Tyler after our talk show on Thursday afternoon.
Our station and those I work with have been hammering away since my arrival on June 22nd, so it will be nice to get a little "break," before heading to Houston to cover the Texas Bowl.
Paul Catalina and I will meet in Houston on Sunday evening and host our talk show from the Westin Galleria (Baylor Team Hotel) on Monday and Tuesday afternoon. John Morris will also host his 2pm-3pm show from the same location on those days.
We'll all broadcast live from Reliant Stadium on Wednesday, "Game-Day" with our special broadcast (You Make The Call) coming on Wednesday from 12:00pm-3:00pm.
As we approach Christmas, and like I mentioned during Thanksgiving, I have so much to be thankful for and the holidays bring out all the emotions.
My family, my friends, those who I've met and gotten to know here in Central Texas have been amazing to me and supported me through thick and thin and now through the increasingly good times in Waco with 1660/106.9ESPN Radio-Central Texas.
Please enjoy the holidays with family and Merry Christmas!
David Smoak
Our station and those I work with have been hammering away since my arrival on June 22nd, so it will be nice to get a little "break," before heading to Houston to cover the Texas Bowl.
Paul Catalina and I will meet in Houston on Sunday evening and host our talk show from the Westin Galleria (Baylor Team Hotel) on Monday and Tuesday afternoon. John Morris will also host his 2pm-3pm show from the same location on those days.
We'll all broadcast live from Reliant Stadium on Wednesday, "Game-Day" with our special broadcast (You Make The Call) coming on Wednesday from 12:00pm-3:00pm.
As we approach Christmas, and like I mentioned during Thanksgiving, I have so much to be thankful for and the holidays bring out all the emotions.
My family, my friends, those who I've met and gotten to know here in Central Texas have been amazing to me and supported me through thick and thin and now through the increasingly good times in Waco with 1660/106.9ESPN Radio-Central Texas.
Please enjoy the holidays with family and Merry Christmas!
David Smoak
Saturday, December 18, 2010
2010 has been the "Year of the Dynasty"
Although 5-A perennial power Euless Trinity lost to Pearland, 2010 will go down as the year of the "Dynasty" in my opinion.
Lake Travis won their fourth straight state title, Aledo won their second straight, Carthage won their third straight, as did Daingerfield and Mart won their 5th state title overall.
David Smoak
Lake Travis won their fourth straight state title, Aledo won their second straight, Carthage won their third straight, as did Daingerfield and Mart won their 5th state title overall.
David Smoak
"Live" from Newsom Stadium, Mansfield, Class 1-A, Division I State Championship Game
1660/106.9 ESPN Radio-Waco is "Live" on this gorgeous Saturday from Vernon Newsom Stadium in Mansfield, Texas for the Class 1-A, Division I State Championship Game.
(12-2) Mart vs. (12-2) Goldthwaite, in a rematch of an earlier non-district game (Goldthwaite won 29-23).
Broadcast Team includes:
Producer: Zach Burke
Sidelines: Lark Smith
Stats: Rich Richardson
Color Analyst: Paul Catalina
Play-By-Play: David Smoak
David Smoak
(12-2) Mart vs. (12-2) Goldthwaite, in a rematch of an earlier non-district game (Goldthwaite won 29-23).
Broadcast Team includes:
Producer: Zach Burke
Sidelines: Lark Smith
Stats: Rich Richardson
Color Analyst: Paul Catalina
Play-By-Play: David Smoak
David Smoak
Thursday, December 16, 2010
And the chemistry continues to grow...
It's always difficult to mix in someone new, and in my case, I was the new kid on the block when I arrived at 1660ESPN Radio in late-June.
There was a lot of speculation about decisions I'd make involving "You Make The Call" and I was amused at some of them.
Bottom line, here we are nearly six-months later and I've had a lot of people tell me they can sense and hear the chemistry and camaraderie that we've developed...
I have to give almost all of the credit to Paul Catalina and especially Butch Henry.
Butch has been apart of our show from it's inception, 13-15 years ago. And, although I made some subtle and not so subtle changes to our format---Butch has done a great job of "give and take" throughout the first six-months.
While he hasn't always agreed with my decisions, he's given me time to prove why I felt they were important and necessary.
It's like we've been doing a show for much longer and I can't wait to be involved with Butch and Paul every day. And, Jason Barringer, our young but talented producer has come a LONG way during the six-months. In fact, Jason has really taken control of the show (well, unless you hear everyone talk about me running late into the commercial breaks).
Jason was a shy, sometimes nervous young man when we promoted him to producer.
He's learning the ropes, very well and extremely fast.
There are a lot of bullets flying when you're hosting or producing a talk show on the radio--but Jason has taken some of those bullets and gotten back up and kept fighting.
He's going to be very good, if not already.
David Smoak
There was a lot of speculation about decisions I'd make involving "You Make The Call" and I was amused at some of them.
Bottom line, here we are nearly six-months later and I've had a lot of people tell me they can sense and hear the chemistry and camaraderie that we've developed...
I have to give almost all of the credit to Paul Catalina and especially Butch Henry.
Butch has been apart of our show from it's inception, 13-15 years ago. And, although I made some subtle and not so subtle changes to our format---Butch has done a great job of "give and take" throughout the first six-months.
While he hasn't always agreed with my decisions, he's given me time to prove why I felt they were important and necessary.
It's like we've been doing a show for much longer and I can't wait to be involved with Butch and Paul every day. And, Jason Barringer, our young but talented producer has come a LONG way during the six-months. In fact, Jason has really taken control of the show (well, unless you hear everyone talk about me running late into the commercial breaks).
Jason was a shy, sometimes nervous young man when we promoted him to producer.
He's learning the ropes, very well and extremely fast.
There are a lot of bullets flying when you're hosting or producing a talk show on the radio--but Jason has taken some of those bullets and gotten back up and kept fighting.
He's going to be very good, if not already.
David Smoak
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Jerry's World is truly one of a kind...
Believe it or not, my first trip to Cowboys Stadium for the Sunday night game with Philadelphia.
The amenities, space, and access within the press box is truly insane.
It's like I had my own place and a great angle.
Really enjoyed it, most of all, good game and even better seeing a lot of people in my profession who I respect and have known for years.
Smoaky
The amenities, space, and access within the press box is truly insane.
It's like I had my own place and a great angle.
Really enjoyed it, most of all, good game and even better seeing a lot of people in my profession who I respect and have known for years.
Smoaky
Great weekend with family...
I drove in from Waco to spend the weekend with Cindy's parents and family in Plano, and our daughter, Jennifer, who also lives in Plano.
Our son, Craig and his girlfriend, Mandee also came up.
Had a really good time, need to do these more often, except too much good food, and I'm losing battle with the waist-line again.
David Smoak
Our son, Craig and his girlfriend, Mandee also came up.
Had a really good time, need to do these more often, except too much good food, and I'm losing battle with the waist-line again.
David Smoak
1660 will broadcast Class 1-A Division I State Championship Game
Mart I.S.D. has asked 1660/106.9 ESPN to broadcast their state championship game against Goldthwaite. Broadcast is 11:30am pregame, 12:00pm kickoff at Newsom Stadium in Mansfield.
I will handle the play-by-play, Paul Catalina color and we'll someone on the sideline as well.
David Smoak
I will handle the play-by-play, Paul Catalina color and we'll someone on the sideline as well.
David Smoak
Friday, December 10, 2010
Not a good day to be former University star Perrish Cox
Broncos cornerback Perrish Cox, a rookie starter, is in Douglas County Detention Center today on charges of sexual assault. He was arrested around 10 p.m. Thursday by Lone Tree police.
The bond on Cox's case has been set at $15,000, according to Casimir Spencer, spokeswoman for Douglas District Attorney Carol Chambers.
All records in the case have been sealed. Cox will make his first appearance this morning in Douglas County District Court to be advised of the complaint.
According to a statement by the Lone Tree Police Department, the department was notified on Oct. 28 that a sexual assault had occurred in the City of Lone Tree.
After a lengthy and detailed investigation, a case was presented to the district attorney's office. After review by that office, charges were filed and an arrest warrant was issued against Cox, 23. He was arrested without incident, and transported to the Douglas County Jail.
The case filing has been sealed by court order at the request of the district attorney's office to protect the identity of the alleged victim.
"We are aware of the reports and are currently in the process of gathering information and reviewing the facts," said Broncos media relations director Patrick Smyth. "We are taking this matter very seriously and are fully cooperating with every aspect of the process."
Cox was drafted out of Oklahoma State in the fifth round by the Broncos. The team had him rated as a first- or second-round talent, but he fell in the draft because of character concerns. He was suspended from Oklahoma State's Cotton Bowl game last season because of curfew violations.
Cox was scheduled to make his ninth start at right cornerback Sunday at Arizona. It's possible he will be replaced by veteran Andre' Goodman, who is returning after a long absence from a thigh injury.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Not a bad list of upcoming guests on "You Make The Call"
Friday will include all four of the greater-Central Texas high school programs left in the state playoffs, Cameron Yoe's Rick Rhoades, Mart's Rusty Nail, Lexington's Jason Holcomb, and Bremond's Bruce Brignac.
We'll also have Baylor WR Lanear Sampson and S Tim Atchison.
And, we have Gene Stallings on Friday as well.
Plus, we'll talk about the Cliff Lee Sweepstakes.
And, don't forget next week's list of guests is loaded up too:
Scott Drew, Baylor Men's Basketball Coach
Kim Mulkey, Baylor Women's Basketball Coach
Tim Few, Gonzaga Men's Basketball Coach
Fran Fraschilla, ESPN College Basketball Analyst
Robert Griffin III, Baylor Quarterback
And more to come...
David Smoak
We'll also have Baylor WR Lanear Sampson and S Tim Atchison.
And, we have Gene Stallings on Friday as well.
Plus, we'll talk about the Cliff Lee Sweepstakes.
And, don't forget next week's list of guests is loaded up too:
Scott Drew, Baylor Men's Basketball Coach
Kim Mulkey, Baylor Women's Basketball Coach
Tim Few, Gonzaga Men's Basketball Coach
Fran Fraschilla, ESPN College Basketball Analyst
Robert Griffin III, Baylor Quarterback
And more to come...
David Smoak
We'll have Gonzaga vs. Baylor tickets over the next week...
We'll give everyone a chance to register to win some free Gonzaga vs. Baylor tickets on "You Make The Call" from Friday, December 10th through Friday, December 16th.
Just to check on who is reading this blog...
First five (5) of you to send me an email, will get a pair of tickets.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Just to check on who is reading this blog...
First five (5) of you to send me an email, will get a pair of tickets.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Texas Bowl coverage sponsors continue to rise...
Paul Catalina and I will broadcast "You Make The Call" from the Baylor team hotel, apparently the Westin Galleria on Monday, December 27th and Tuesday, December 28th, and from Reliant Stadium on game-day, Wednesday, December 29th.
Our show on Wednesday will be a special time, 12:00pm-3:00pm, which is earlier than normal due to the pregame and game broadcast of the Texas Bowl on 1660 and 106.9FM ESPN Radio.
Our sponsors to date include:
*Belfor Restoration Company
*Salty Dog Sports Bar & Grill
*Fuddrucker's
*Target Restoration
*First National Bank of Central Texas
Our show on Wednesday will be a special time, 12:00pm-3:00pm, which is earlier than normal due to the pregame and game broadcast of the Texas Bowl on 1660 and 106.9FM ESPN Radio.
Our sponsors to date include:
*Belfor Restoration Company
*Salty Dog Sports Bar & Grill
*Fuddrucker's
*Target Restoration
*First National Bank of Central Texas
Monday, December 6, 2010
What a nice surprise on today's show...
We had several topics up for discussion today but every caller had something to say about the late-great Don Meredith, who passed away over the weekend at the age of 72.
We had Brad Sham, "Voice of the Cowboys" already scheduled as we always do on Monday, but I started flipping through my iPhone Rolodex and found the perfect person to discuss the passing of Don Meredith, Bob Lilly, "Mr. Cowboy."
I spoke with his wife Ann earlier this afternoon and she confirmed Mr. Lilly's availability in our 4pm hour. I've interviewed Bob Lilly a handful of times and he was at his best today talking about his former teammate and friend.
The interview will be available on http://www.1660espn.com/podcasts/ under our podcast link.
David Smoak
We had Brad Sham, "Voice of the Cowboys" already scheduled as we always do on Monday, but I started flipping through my iPhone Rolodex and found the perfect person to discuss the passing of Don Meredith, Bob Lilly, "Mr. Cowboy."
I spoke with his wife Ann earlier this afternoon and she confirmed Mr. Lilly's availability in our 4pm hour. I've interviewed Bob Lilly a handful of times and he was at his best today talking about his former teammate and friend.
The interview will be available on http://www.1660espn.com/podcasts/ under our podcast link.
David Smoak
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Wrapping up a weekend...
where I watched my favorite college football team, Nebraska, blow a 17-0 lead against Oklahoma in the Big 12 Championship Game.
Where I watched my favorite golfer, Tiger Woods, blow a four-shot lead in the final round of the Chevron Challenge. It was great theater and I think most everyone thought Tiger sealed the win with the approach shot on the final hole within 3-4 feet up the cup. But, Graeme McDowell capped off an amazing year by draining a long birdie putt and then another one in the playoff to complete Tiger's winless year.
And, I then blew a gasket watching the Redskins stink it up against the NYGiants, losing, 31-7.
These next four games will test Mike Shanahan's leadership and patience.
And, I ended the weekend on a positive note, recorded my one-on-one interview with Baylor football coach Art Briles on their Texas Bowl berth. And, then...erased whatever was left from the Crawfish and Shrimp Etoufee I had left from the night before.
Looking forward to a really good week...
David Smoak
Where I watched my favorite golfer, Tiger Woods, blow a four-shot lead in the final round of the Chevron Challenge. It was great theater and I think most everyone thought Tiger sealed the win with the approach shot on the final hole within 3-4 feet up the cup. But, Graeme McDowell capped off an amazing year by draining a long birdie putt and then another one in the playoff to complete Tiger's winless year.
And, I then blew a gasket watching the Redskins stink it up against the NYGiants, losing, 31-7.
These next four games will test Mike Shanahan's leadership and patience.
And, I ended the weekend on a positive note, recorded my one-on-one interview with Baylor football coach Art Briles on their Texas Bowl berth. And, then...erased whatever was left from the Crawfish and Shrimp Etoufee I had left from the night before.
Looking forward to a really good week...
David Smoak
Saturday, December 4, 2010
The Ultimate Fan Catch-22
Well, the Big 12 as we knew it in football officially ends tonight, the Championship Game at Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, Nebraska vs. Oklahoma.
I am a lifelong Nebraska football fan, but my wife Cindy and our son Craig are both HUGE OU fans.
Cindy's entire side of the family is Boomer Sooner, and I'm the minority, but, I've had my pretty good moments along the way.
However, Cindy and I decided to remain apart for this one tonight. Marriage is tough enough so we decided it would be better for everyone involved if we remained 2 1/2 apart.
Seriously, this is what I wanted for the final Big 12 Championship Game for the conference as we knew it.
I predicted Texas-Nebraska at the beginning of the season, but we know what happened in stunning fashion to UT...and I'm still shocked by their sudden fall.
I love the 'Huskers in football and my place is loaded with Nebraska helmets, jerseys, pictures and glasses and signs and old SI covers, including the "Game of the Century" in 1971.
Anytime I bring that one up to Cindy, "Well, there was an obvious no-call on a block in the back on the Johnny Rodgers punt return for a TD."
She's wrong.
There were two block in the back calls that were missed, but oh well....
We've enjoyed the rivalry throughout the time we met, and although OU had the upper-hand through most of the 70's (except '70 and '71 and '78), Nebraska has held their own with the mighty-Sooners throughout the past 30-years.
I love the rivalry and I hate that it didn't remain an annual game once the Big 12 was formed.
Tonight, the rivalry takes another step, but no matter what's on the line, I don't know how it can ever match the intensity and respect from the old Big 8 days.
David Smoak
I am a lifelong Nebraska football fan, but my wife Cindy and our son Craig are both HUGE OU fans.
Cindy's entire side of the family is Boomer Sooner, and I'm the minority, but, I've had my pretty good moments along the way.
However, Cindy and I decided to remain apart for this one tonight. Marriage is tough enough so we decided it would be better for everyone involved if we remained 2 1/2 apart.
Seriously, this is what I wanted for the final Big 12 Championship Game for the conference as we knew it.
I predicted Texas-Nebraska at the beginning of the season, but we know what happened in stunning fashion to UT...and I'm still shocked by their sudden fall.
I love the 'Huskers in football and my place is loaded with Nebraska helmets, jerseys, pictures and glasses and signs and old SI covers, including the "Game of the Century" in 1971.
Anytime I bring that one up to Cindy, "Well, there was an obvious no-call on a block in the back on the Johnny Rodgers punt return for a TD."
She's wrong.
There were two block in the back calls that were missed, but oh well....
We've enjoyed the rivalry throughout the time we met, and although OU had the upper-hand through most of the 70's (except '70 and '71 and '78), Nebraska has held their own with the mighty-Sooners throughout the past 30-years.
I love the rivalry and I hate that it didn't remain an annual game once the Big 12 was formed.
Tonight, the rivalry takes another step, but no matter what's on the line, I don't know how it can ever match the intensity and respect from the old Big 8 days.
David Smoak
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Man, this week has flown by...
Last week seemed quick because of the Thanksgiving holiday, but this week is almost over and I don't know where it went.
I've enjoyed it by watching two good basketball games at the Ferrell Center, the Lady Bears beat Notre Dame on Wednesday, Bears wrapped-up a win against Arizona State earlier tonight.
And, there's still a weekend of high school football playoff action, and the Big 12 Championship Game.
I'm a lifelong Nebraska football fan, but I'm one of the few that was upset when they decided to leave for the Big Ten. But, it's time and they have one game left and I can't think of any better team to play than former Big 8 rival, Oklahoma.
I noticed the Sooners are favored by about a touchdown, and that doesn't surprise me. As a 'Huskers fan I'm concerned about their lack of firepower without a healthy Taylor Martinez at QB and Niles Paul at WR. I don't know who will stretch the field without Paul, even though he's had a case of the drops in some of the bigger games.
Nebraska is going to have to pound the rock and slow down the game like they did a year ago to beat OU. I can't imagine Landy Jones playing worse than he did up in Lincoln.
But, since my wife Cindy and son Craig are both huge OU fans, if the 'Huskers are going to lose I'd rather it be to the Sooners. But, don't get me wrong, I won't be a happy-camper.
I know a lot of has been written about the 'Huskers wanting to win even more so because they're leaving the conference.
No, I completely disagree.
I think it's about breaking a long drought, a way too long of a drought without a conference championship!
David Smoak
I've enjoyed it by watching two good basketball games at the Ferrell Center, the Lady Bears beat Notre Dame on Wednesday, Bears wrapped-up a win against Arizona State earlier tonight.
And, there's still a weekend of high school football playoff action, and the Big 12 Championship Game.
I'm a lifelong Nebraska football fan, but I'm one of the few that was upset when they decided to leave for the Big Ten. But, it's time and they have one game left and I can't think of any better team to play than former Big 8 rival, Oklahoma.
I noticed the Sooners are favored by about a touchdown, and that doesn't surprise me. As a 'Huskers fan I'm concerned about their lack of firepower without a healthy Taylor Martinez at QB and Niles Paul at WR. I don't know who will stretch the field without Paul, even though he's had a case of the drops in some of the bigger games.
Nebraska is going to have to pound the rock and slow down the game like they did a year ago to beat OU. I can't imagine Landy Jones playing worse than he did up in Lincoln.
But, since my wife Cindy and son Craig are both huge OU fans, if the 'Huskers are going to lose I'd rather it be to the Sooners. But, don't get me wrong, I won't be a happy-camper.
I know a lot of has been written about the 'Huskers wanting to win even more so because they're leaving the conference.
No, I completely disagree.
I think it's about breaking a long drought, a way too long of a drought without a conference championship!
David Smoak
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
The greatness of being in a Big 12 city...
Over these next few days, I'll be able to watch teams like Minnesota, Notre Dame, Tennessee and Arizona State play at the Ferrell Center in either men's or women's basketball.
This is so much fun to be involved.
I just returned from a media session and interviewed Lady Bears star Brittney Griner, and we'll get a Bears player on today's show around 3:00pm.
Smoaky
This is so much fun to be involved.
I just returned from a media session and interviewed Lady Bears star Brittney Griner, and we'll get a Bears player on today's show around 3:00pm.
Smoaky
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Mexia's Gentry commits to Purdue University
I thought this would interest a few people.
Mexia running back Doug Gentry, 6-1, 198, 4.5, has given his verbal commitment to Purdue University. Gentry ran for 1,108-yards and 19-TD's during his senior season and finished his career with 4,801-yards his last three years at Mexia including 58-TD's.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Smoaky
Mexia running back Doug Gentry, 6-1, 198, 4.5, has given his verbal commitment to Purdue University. Gentry ran for 1,108-yards and 19-TD's during his senior season and finished his career with 4,801-yards his last three years at Mexia including 58-TD's.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Smoaky
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
1660ESPN Radio "Golf Course"
As some of you know, our new radio station building overlooks Cottonwood Creek Golf Course, #16 green is just to our left, and #17 is straight in front of my desk.
I've been watching one player after another hit shots throughout the last six weeks since we arrived at this location.
Finally, with the holidays upon and nothing else to do, and basically most everyone from our stations on vacation, I couldn't resist.
I brought my 3-wood and driver to work today with a handful of golf balls.
Yes, I did it.
I took some shots from just outside the door from my office and started banging away at the #17 green. My first shot went up the front of the green but rolled off left. The last 3-shots ended up with the fish in the pond that is left of the 17th-green.
I'm about to dig out another sleeve of golf balls from my trunk and fire away.
Update coming soon.
David Smoak
I've been watching one player after another hit shots throughout the last six weeks since we arrived at this location.
Finally, with the holidays upon and nothing else to do, and basically most everyone from our stations on vacation, I couldn't resist.
I brought my 3-wood and driver to work today with a handful of golf balls.
Yes, I did it.
I took some shots from just outside the door from my office and started banging away at the #17 green. My first shot went up the front of the green but rolled off left. The last 3-shots ended up with the fish in the pond that is left of the 17th-green.
I'm about to dig out another sleeve of golf balls from my trunk and fire away.
Update coming soon.
David Smoak
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
A lot to be thankful for as we hit the holidays...
Butch Henry, Paul Catalina and I will host "You Make The Call" on Wednesday and then head into the Thanksgiving weekend.
I'm so thankful to be in Waco and Central Texas and Butch, Paul, and so many others have made my transition from Tyler to ESPN-Dallas to ESPN-Waco very enjoyable.
I can't explain the camaraderie we have among our stations, 1660ESPN, Mix929 and 1049The Beat.
From the first day I arrived (June 22nd), I've felt apart of a tremendous family.
I remember the first meeting with our GM (Bill LeGrand) and our sales department and that seems like just yesterday. I remember Mix929 Program Director Dustin Drew and 1049The Beat Program Director Edward Graham taking me out for dinner that night and just chilling out and talking about our plans as a group.
Those two never met me before that day and they treated me like family. I'll never forget their immediate hospitality.
I remember walking to Cricket's sports bar with our owner, Gary Moss, before meeting with everyone and John Morris, "Voice of the Baylor Bears" yelled my name across the parking lot near our office and we shared a nice handshake hug and JMo said, "Welcome to Waco, glad you're here Smoaky."
I remember walking through the front door of ESPN/Mix/TheBeat and Beth Richards greeting me with a huge smile, "We're glad to have you at ESPN."
We've all had some goals and we've accomplished each and every one of them.
*Our sales have increased dramatically and we're holding steady for a nice November.
*Website renovated, podcast segments available and audio-streaming completed (Special Thanks to Beth Richards)
*Upgrading and changing the culture and personality on "You Make The Call" with weekly analysts and guests discussing the Cowboys, Big XII and much more.
*We moved into our really nice building just over a month ago, it's ours, no elevators, no leasing or rent, it's our building and it fits our great atmosphere among everyone involved.
Do we have a few cat fights, disagreements and eruptions, yes---just like every normal radio station or even most businesses where it's not a "cookie cutter" environment.
I will co-host our Wednesday show and head back to Tyler to spend Thanksgiving with my wife Cindy, our son Craig and his girlfriend Mandee, and our daughter Jennifer. I'm not sure if she's bringing her boyfriend Brandon or not. If she is, Cindy better get an extra turkey or two.
And, I can't wait to love on our four cats and Jennifer's...excuse me, MY DOG, Oreo, our Broder Collar from hell.
Oreo is the smartest dog I've ever known and her personality is amazing. I can't wait for her to maul me when I get to the house sometime on Wednesday night.
Meanwhile, I'll return back to Waco on Friday morning and then Paul, Rich Richardson and I will start our drive out towards West Texas to Clyde for the Crawford-Idalou high school playoff game broadcast.
I've studied and prepped for the game and everything is set, locked-and-loaded.
For nearly 20-years, I did Class 5-A football broadcasting every Tyler Lee game but one from 1991-2008, and a nice handful of John Tyler games too.
I've been broadcasting mainly 3-A and now 2-A games this season, and like me personally, it's been about getting back to basics.
The 4-A and 5-A teams get almost all of the attention from the larger markets and nationally, but in my opinion, Texas HS football has its backbone from Six-Man to Class 3-A.
I've enjoyed working with Mark Bell at China Spring, Ray Biles at Lorena, Willie Williams at La Vega, Brian Lewis at Robinson, Kyle Cooper at Gatesville, Mike Rabe at Connally, Paul Weaver at Mexia, Bob Shipley at Brownwood, among many others.
We picked up the Crawford Pirates last week and Delbert Kelm has been a nice fit and very cooperative in sending me whatever I've requested.
Ever since my first season of covering high school football, 1981, I've always enjoyed watching any city or town get excited about playoff run...dreams are made, sometimes broken...but memories are forever.
I've also been fortunate to arrive in Waco as the Baylor football team broke a decade-and-a-half-long drought, not only finishing being bowl eligible, but 7-5. I remember asking Art Briles to appear on my first show with Butch and Paul, and he was there for us, and I remember an off-the-cuff prediction about Baylor's record. I think Butch and Paul said 6-6 and I mentioned 7-5. I had no clue but just felt the program was on the uptick.
I'd been told there hadn't been many player interviews in the past and I'm not sure if that's true, but I just went over the Bears roster and we interviewed Tim Atchison, Phillip Blake, Krys Buerck, Elliott Coffey, Ahmad Dixon, Tevin Elliott, Derek Epperson, Jay Finley, Chris Francis, Terrance Ganaway, Robert Griffin III, Antonio Johnson, Aaron Jones, Cameron Kaufhold, Prince Kent, Byron Landor, Clifton Odom, Lanear Sampson, Brad Taylor, Phil Taylor, Danny Watkins, Terrance Williams and Kendall Wright at least once and in some cases, many times.
We have plans on being right smack in the middle of the Baylor bowl game preparations and festivities.
I am a very lucky man, and I want to thank everyone, especially Cindy, Craig and Jennifer for believing in their husband and father. Cindy's family and mine as well for giving us our space and being very patient.
I want to thank my best friend, Eric Horton for being there for me through some difficult times in my life during the summer of 2009, along with David Dobbs, Randy Peters, Jerry Gumbert, Randy Galloway, Brad Sham, John McClain, and yes, the great Earl Campbell. Those guys have no idea how much they meant to me, although I've tried to tell them many times.
My golf buddies, Joe, John, Gene and a few others. I really miss all the trash-talking, and unfortunately, I haven't had time to hit the links since August and right before the high school football season began.
But, I'm used to that---I'll somehow get in a round or two during the holidays, depending on the weather and then make up for lost time next spring and summer.
But, the bottom line to everything I'm trying to write---thank you to so many people for supporting me in my first few months in Waco. I can't believe it's been exactly 5-months to the week I arrived...and we have so much more to do and accomplish.
I'm going to do something stupid and try and list everyone with the radio stations who have made a huge difference to me, Tony Loomer, Terry Tacker, Rich Richardson, Kisha Davis, Becky LeGrand, Bill LeGrand, Beth Richards, Leslie, Casey, Jessica Goodlett, Edward Graham, Dustin Drew, Gary Moss, Van Goodall, Mitch, Zach Burke, Paul Catalina, Butch Henry, Lance, Marcel, Linda Hill, Jazee, A.J., B.J. that D.J., Batman, Mary Montanez, Jazee, and Phyllis Curry.
A special thanks to Brenda Tacker, Terry's wife, who works at Baylor University. She has been my "Li'l Sis" in Waco and she has made sure I remain focused on the day-to-day and the big picture. Terry and Brenda were instrumental in getting me in front of some doctors when I was feeling awful before being diagnosed with double-pneumonia.
Let me tell you about the camaraderie inside our building. I've never experienced anything like it and when there are disagreements or concerns, no one takes it personally, at least not for very long.
That's a refreshing environment.
Casey, who we hired as our promotions directions about 6-8 weeks ago has been a breath of fresh air with her youthful exuberance and energy. She does everything for our appearances, including hanging banners, duct taping wires and phone lines and then helping take everything down when we're done.
And, today---after whining and complaining about my hair getting to long (as if I have enough to get too long), she brought her styling packet with scissors, clippers and everything else and right outside on our porch overlooking Cottonwood Creek Golf Course, she lowered my ears a little bit.
That was the ultimate in teamwork. HA!
Well, it's approaching midnight and I've been warned not to stay up too late too often---by the doctors and nurses at Hillcrest Hospital. If I even sniff past midnight, it's like when I was a kid when my mom had eyes in the back of her head.
But now, it's either Cindy or Brenda, Craig or Jennifer busting me over the chops with a verbal warning or stern text message.
Speaking of Hillcrest. I brought up my bout with double-pneumonia from back in early-October.
I'm not one to get sick. I don't miss work, I can't stand not working, but those two weeks changed my life and the staff at Hillcrest was truly amazing.
It's just what I've come to expect from Waco and Central Texas, true and real hospitality, nothing fake.
Thank you.
David Smoak
I'm so thankful to be in Waco and Central Texas and Butch, Paul, and so many others have made my transition from Tyler to ESPN-Dallas to ESPN-Waco very enjoyable.
I can't explain the camaraderie we have among our stations, 1660ESPN, Mix929 and 1049The Beat.
From the first day I arrived (June 22nd), I've felt apart of a tremendous family.
I remember the first meeting with our GM (Bill LeGrand) and our sales department and that seems like just yesterday. I remember Mix929 Program Director Dustin Drew and 1049The Beat Program Director Edward Graham taking me out for dinner that night and just chilling out and talking about our plans as a group.
Those two never met me before that day and they treated me like family. I'll never forget their immediate hospitality.
I remember walking to Cricket's sports bar with our owner, Gary Moss, before meeting with everyone and John Morris, "Voice of the Baylor Bears" yelled my name across the parking lot near our office and we shared a nice handshake hug and JMo said, "Welcome to Waco, glad you're here Smoaky."
I remember walking through the front door of ESPN/Mix/TheBeat and Beth Richards greeting me with a huge smile, "We're glad to have you at ESPN."
We've all had some goals and we've accomplished each and every one of them.
*Our sales have increased dramatically and we're holding steady for a nice November.
*Website renovated, podcast segments available and audio-streaming completed (Special Thanks to Beth Richards)
*Upgrading and changing the culture and personality on "You Make The Call" with weekly analysts and guests discussing the Cowboys, Big XII and much more.
*We moved into our really nice building just over a month ago, it's ours, no elevators, no leasing or rent, it's our building and it fits our great atmosphere among everyone involved.
Do we have a few cat fights, disagreements and eruptions, yes---just like every normal radio station or even most businesses where it's not a "cookie cutter" environment.
I will co-host our Wednesday show and head back to Tyler to spend Thanksgiving with my wife Cindy, our son Craig and his girlfriend Mandee, and our daughter Jennifer. I'm not sure if she's bringing her boyfriend Brandon or not. If she is, Cindy better get an extra turkey or two.
And, I can't wait to love on our four cats and Jennifer's...excuse me, MY DOG, Oreo, our Broder Collar from hell.
Oreo is the smartest dog I've ever known and her personality is amazing. I can't wait for her to maul me when I get to the house sometime on Wednesday night.
Meanwhile, I'll return back to Waco on Friday morning and then Paul, Rich Richardson and I will start our drive out towards West Texas to Clyde for the Crawford-Idalou high school playoff game broadcast.
I've studied and prepped for the game and everything is set, locked-and-loaded.
For nearly 20-years, I did Class 5-A football broadcasting every Tyler Lee game but one from 1991-2008, and a nice handful of John Tyler games too.
I've been broadcasting mainly 3-A and now 2-A games this season, and like me personally, it's been about getting back to basics.
The 4-A and 5-A teams get almost all of the attention from the larger markets and nationally, but in my opinion, Texas HS football has its backbone from Six-Man to Class 3-A.
I've enjoyed working with Mark Bell at China Spring, Ray Biles at Lorena, Willie Williams at La Vega, Brian Lewis at Robinson, Kyle Cooper at Gatesville, Mike Rabe at Connally, Paul Weaver at Mexia, Bob Shipley at Brownwood, among many others.
We picked up the Crawford Pirates last week and Delbert Kelm has been a nice fit and very cooperative in sending me whatever I've requested.
Ever since my first season of covering high school football, 1981, I've always enjoyed watching any city or town get excited about playoff run...dreams are made, sometimes broken...but memories are forever.
I've also been fortunate to arrive in Waco as the Baylor football team broke a decade-and-a-half-long drought, not only finishing being bowl eligible, but 7-5. I remember asking Art Briles to appear on my first show with Butch and Paul, and he was there for us, and I remember an off-the-cuff prediction about Baylor's record. I think Butch and Paul said 6-6 and I mentioned 7-5. I had no clue but just felt the program was on the uptick.
I'd been told there hadn't been many player interviews in the past and I'm not sure if that's true, but I just went over the Bears roster and we interviewed Tim Atchison, Phillip Blake, Krys Buerck, Elliott Coffey, Ahmad Dixon, Tevin Elliott, Derek Epperson, Jay Finley, Chris Francis, Terrance Ganaway, Robert Griffin III, Antonio Johnson, Aaron Jones, Cameron Kaufhold, Prince Kent, Byron Landor, Clifton Odom, Lanear Sampson, Brad Taylor, Phil Taylor, Danny Watkins, Terrance Williams and Kendall Wright at least once and in some cases, many times.
We have plans on being right smack in the middle of the Baylor bowl game preparations and festivities.
I am a very lucky man, and I want to thank everyone, especially Cindy, Craig and Jennifer for believing in their husband and father. Cindy's family and mine as well for giving us our space and being very patient.
I want to thank my best friend, Eric Horton for being there for me through some difficult times in my life during the summer of 2009, along with David Dobbs, Randy Peters, Jerry Gumbert, Randy Galloway, Brad Sham, John McClain, and yes, the great Earl Campbell. Those guys have no idea how much they meant to me, although I've tried to tell them many times.
My golf buddies, Joe, John, Gene and a few others. I really miss all the trash-talking, and unfortunately, I haven't had time to hit the links since August and right before the high school football season began.
But, I'm used to that---I'll somehow get in a round or two during the holidays, depending on the weather and then make up for lost time next spring and summer.
But, the bottom line to everything I'm trying to write---thank you to so many people for supporting me in my first few months in Waco. I can't believe it's been exactly 5-months to the week I arrived...and we have so much more to do and accomplish.
I'm going to do something stupid and try and list everyone with the radio stations who have made a huge difference to me, Tony Loomer, Terry Tacker, Rich Richardson, Kisha Davis, Becky LeGrand, Bill LeGrand, Beth Richards, Leslie, Casey, Jessica Goodlett, Edward Graham, Dustin Drew, Gary Moss, Van Goodall, Mitch, Zach Burke, Paul Catalina, Butch Henry, Lance, Marcel, Linda Hill, Jazee, A.J., B.J. that D.J., Batman, Mary Montanez, Jazee, and Phyllis Curry.
A special thanks to Brenda Tacker, Terry's wife, who works at Baylor University. She has been my "Li'l Sis" in Waco and she has made sure I remain focused on the day-to-day and the big picture. Terry and Brenda were instrumental in getting me in front of some doctors when I was feeling awful before being diagnosed with double-pneumonia.
Let me tell you about the camaraderie inside our building. I've never experienced anything like it and when there are disagreements or concerns, no one takes it personally, at least not for very long.
That's a refreshing environment.
Casey, who we hired as our promotions directions about 6-8 weeks ago has been a breath of fresh air with her youthful exuberance and energy. She does everything for our appearances, including hanging banners, duct taping wires and phone lines and then helping take everything down when we're done.
And, today---after whining and complaining about my hair getting to long (as if I have enough to get too long), she brought her styling packet with scissors, clippers and everything else and right outside on our porch overlooking Cottonwood Creek Golf Course, she lowered my ears a little bit.
That was the ultimate in teamwork. HA!
Well, it's approaching midnight and I've been warned not to stay up too late too often---by the doctors and nurses at Hillcrest Hospital. If I even sniff past midnight, it's like when I was a kid when my mom had eyes in the back of her head.
But now, it's either Cindy or Brenda, Craig or Jennifer busting me over the chops with a verbal warning or stern text message.
Speaking of Hillcrest. I brought up my bout with double-pneumonia from back in early-October.
I'm not one to get sick. I don't miss work, I can't stand not working, but those two weeks changed my life and the staff at Hillcrest was truly amazing.
It's just what I've come to expect from Waco and Central Texas, true and real hospitality, nothing fake.
Thank you.
David Smoak
Monday, November 22, 2010
Our growth in Central Texas continues...
We signed on with a new FM frequency today, 1660ESPN Radio is now being simulcast on 106.9FM KHLE in Kempner, Killeen, Fort Hood.
It's the first of what should be three FM frequencies we'll be using very soon.
The next should be in Waco and then Temple.
David Smoak
It's the first of what should be three FM frequencies we'll be using very soon.
The next should be in Waco and then Temple.
David Smoak
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Just interviewed Art Briles for Monday's show...
I've interviewed Art Briles throughout the season on Monday before his weekly press conference.
The time was never long-enough but I appreciated the chance to visit with him and share with our listening audience.
Today gave me a chance to have a pretty lengthy time with him, about 8-minutes and we talked about the emotions of the regular season ending, the disappointment of three consecutive losses and perhaps why the slide occurred.
Coach Briles was as relaxed as I've seen him and somewhat emotional shot like his football team.
I'll replay the interview at 4:10pm on Monday.
He discussed their success overall compared to the past decade and a half of Baylor football.
Did the season end with the thud with losses to Oklahoma State, A&M and OU, yes.
But, in the big picture, the Bears broke a long drought that had to be broken.
Smoaky
The time was never long-enough but I appreciated the chance to visit with him and share with our listening audience.
Today gave me a chance to have a pretty lengthy time with him, about 8-minutes and we talked about the emotions of the regular season ending, the disappointment of three consecutive losses and perhaps why the slide occurred.
Coach Briles was as relaxed as I've seen him and somewhat emotional shot like his football team.
I'll replay the interview at 4:10pm on Monday.
He discussed their success overall compared to the past decade and a half of Baylor football.
Did the season end with the thud with losses to Oklahoma State, A&M and OU, yes.
But, in the big picture, the Bears broke a long drought that had to be broken.
Smoaky
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Nebraska and the Big XII
I'm on record as being completed against Nebraska's decision to leave the Big XII for the Big Ten, but after tonight's game in College Station, I'm on board and won't look back.
Look, Nebraska's offense was bottled-up by the Aggies in a great atmosphere at Kyle Field.
31,000+ students attended the game, an apparent record and it was the largest crowd in Kyle Field history, that's great.
A&M should be proud of the effort to pack the stadium and create a difficult environment.
But, 16-penalties to 2 and the yardage involved, 140 to 10 is just ridiculous. Nebraska was a marked team on Saturday and no one can convince me otherwise.
If the 'Huskers weren't a marked team then their special teams stud Eric Martin sure was, 2-3 penalties and one of them after a kick that wasn't even returned. It takes about 2-3 seconds for a kicker to blast a ball through the back of the end zone. What can happen in that amount of time to deserve a personal foul?
Eric Martin has been a marked-man since he blindsided the OSU kicker after a touchdown return against Oklahoma State. Martin plays hard and is fearless, and that's what I want in a special teams player.
The officials didn't even throw a penalty against Martin during the return against Oklahoma State, but he was suspended. I'm good with the suspension, but I doubt the conference would ever suspend a UT or A&M player for something similar.
Nebraska deserved a lot of their penalties but two calls in particular should make Commissioner Dan Beebe feel dirty and ashamed.
The personal foul on Nebraska safety Courtney Osborne that led to the game-winning points for the Aggies. The hit wasn't late, it wasn't cheap and it wasn't helmet-to-helmet and he didn't touch Ryan Tannehill's head or helmet.
Why the flag?
And, despite that, Nebraska driving deep into A&M territory right before that and a flag was thrown on an incomplete pass on 3rd down. Any penalty against the defense extends the NU drive and in this case, it would have been 1st and goal. But, the flag was picked-up after a discussion and waved off.
Why throw the flag?
Overall, the Big XII officiating is consistently inconsistent.
Saturday night in College Station it was a complete joke and if the Commissioner is to suspend anyone or fine anyone, he needs to look no further than the crew that officiated the game in question.
Bo Pelini needs to maintain his composure and I know a lot of people will bring that up but how many of you suggesting that could do the same thing? Seriously, don't lie to yourself.
The game should be about the student-athletes, not the coach who has an anger issue or a program who is leaving the conference.
It was so blatant in my opinion that it appeared the Big XII had this message this weekend.
"Hey, Missouri, we know you were the original team who wanted to bolt the conference, but since you didn't have the balls to leave, we'll take it out on the program who did."
How do any of those officials look in the mirror after this one. They can't.
David Smoak
Look, Nebraska's offense was bottled-up by the Aggies in a great atmosphere at Kyle Field.
31,000+ students attended the game, an apparent record and it was the largest crowd in Kyle Field history, that's great.
A&M should be proud of the effort to pack the stadium and create a difficult environment.
But, 16-penalties to 2 and the yardage involved, 140 to 10 is just ridiculous. Nebraska was a marked team on Saturday and no one can convince me otherwise.
If the 'Huskers weren't a marked team then their special teams stud Eric Martin sure was, 2-3 penalties and one of them after a kick that wasn't even returned. It takes about 2-3 seconds for a kicker to blast a ball through the back of the end zone. What can happen in that amount of time to deserve a personal foul?
Eric Martin has been a marked-man since he blindsided the OSU kicker after a touchdown return against Oklahoma State. Martin plays hard and is fearless, and that's what I want in a special teams player.
The officials didn't even throw a penalty against Martin during the return against Oklahoma State, but he was suspended. I'm good with the suspension, but I doubt the conference would ever suspend a UT or A&M player for something similar.
Nebraska deserved a lot of their penalties but two calls in particular should make Commissioner Dan Beebe feel dirty and ashamed.
The personal foul on Nebraska safety Courtney Osborne that led to the game-winning points for the Aggies. The hit wasn't late, it wasn't cheap and it wasn't helmet-to-helmet and he didn't touch Ryan Tannehill's head or helmet.
Why the flag?
And, despite that, Nebraska driving deep into A&M territory right before that and a flag was thrown on an incomplete pass on 3rd down. Any penalty against the defense extends the NU drive and in this case, it would have been 1st and goal. But, the flag was picked-up after a discussion and waved off.
Why throw the flag?
Overall, the Big XII officiating is consistently inconsistent.
Saturday night in College Station it was a complete joke and if the Commissioner is to suspend anyone or fine anyone, he needs to look no further than the crew that officiated the game in question.
Bo Pelini needs to maintain his composure and I know a lot of people will bring that up but how many of you suggesting that could do the same thing? Seriously, don't lie to yourself.
The game should be about the student-athletes, not the coach who has an anger issue or a program who is leaving the conference.
It was so blatant in my opinion that it appeared the Big XII had this message this weekend.
"Hey, Missouri, we know you were the original team who wanted to bolt the conference, but since you didn't have the balls to leave, we'll take it out on the program who did."
How do any of those officials look in the mirror after this one. They can't.
David Smoak
What a HS football road trip...
Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson and I completed our 838-miles high school football broadcast road trip early on Saturday morning.
We left for Humble on Thursday morning at 10:00am and return to Waco at just after 3:00am this morning.
We saw a lot of good football and a lot of the Texas landscape.
I have to admit to sleeping in VERY LATE this morning and then got up in time to hear our son, Craig, and his broadcast of Whitehouse and their loss to Mesquite Poteet today in Corsicana, 24-19.
It was a very surprising loss for the Wildcats.
We're already working on next week's broadcast between Crawford and Idalou, Friday, 7:30pm in Clyde.
I'm watching a little college football this season and about to head to Floyd Casey Stadium for Baylor-OU.
I hope everyone is having a great weekend.
I'm very excited about seeing the entire family late next week for Thanksgiving, we're just not sure where we'll convene, Tyler, Dallas or perhaps even here at my place in Waco.
David Smoak
We left for Humble on Thursday morning at 10:00am and return to Waco at just after 3:00am this morning.
We saw a lot of good football and a lot of the Texas landscape.
I have to admit to sleeping in VERY LATE this morning and then got up in time to hear our son, Craig, and his broadcast of Whitehouse and their loss to Mesquite Poteet today in Corsicana, 24-19.
It was a very surprising loss for the Wildcats.
We're already working on next week's broadcast between Crawford and Idalou, Friday, 7:30pm in Clyde.
I'm watching a little college football this season and about to head to Floyd Casey Stadium for Baylor-OU.
I hope everyone is having a great weekend.
I'm very excited about seeing the entire family late next week for Thanksgiving, we're just not sure where we'll convene, Tyler, Dallas or perhaps even here at my place in Waco.
David Smoak
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The mother of all HS road trips is about to begin...
Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson and I are about to embark on a 2-day, several hundred mile road trip to broadcast games in Humble and Seymour.
We'll depart from Waco mid-morning on Thursday and head to Humble, approximately 180-miles and host "You Make The Call" and then the La Vega-Kirbyville game at 7:30pm on Mix929.
We'll drive from Humble to Corsicana and spend the night because we need to be in Seymour by Friday afternoon.
It's 395-miles from Humble to Seymour so that's 575-miles by Friday afternoon.
And, after broadcasting "You Make The Call" and the Crawford-Spearman game, we'll drive back to Waco, approximately 225-250 miles, and now we're at 800+-miles.
Oh boy!
I'm not sure what will be worse, the driving or me breaking up the cat fights between the two love birds, Paul and Rich.
Wish me luck.
Smoaky
We'll depart from Waco mid-morning on Thursday and head to Humble, approximately 180-miles and host "You Make The Call" and then the La Vega-Kirbyville game at 7:30pm on Mix929.
We'll drive from Humble to Corsicana and spend the night because we need to be in Seymour by Friday afternoon.
It's 395-miles from Humble to Seymour so that's 575-miles by Friday afternoon.
And, after broadcasting "You Make The Call" and the Crawford-Spearman game, we'll drive back to Waco, approximately 225-250 miles, and now we're at 800+-miles.
Oh boy!
I'm not sure what will be worse, the driving or me breaking up the cat fights between the two love birds, Paul and Rich.
Wish me luck.
Smoaky
I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving...
Our daughter, Jennifer, who lives in Dallas called me last night asking about my schedule for next weekend, not this one but the last weekend in November.
She wanted to know if we had any high school broadcasts and where I'd be that weekend.
I thought she wanted me to come up and visit her in Dallas or she was coming down to Waco.
Because our schedule is fast and furious (like many others), I didn't realize she was asking about Thanksgiving Day and the weekend because I CANNOT BELIEVE IT'S ALMOST THANKSGIVING?
Where have all the days and weeks and months gone?
I guess time truly does fly when you're having fun.
Wow.
Smoaky
She wanted to know if we had any high school broadcasts and where I'd be that weekend.
I thought she wanted me to come up and visit her in Dallas or she was coming down to Waco.
Because our schedule is fast and furious (like many others), I didn't realize she was asking about Thanksgiving Day and the weekend because I CANNOT BELIEVE IT'S ALMOST THANKSGIVING?
Where have all the days and weeks and months gone?
I guess time truly does fly when you're having fun.
Wow.
Smoaky
"Common Grounds"
We are broadcasting on Wednesday between 3pm-6pm from "Common Grounds" a business that is just off the Baylor campus.
We have a packed show, Jackie Sherrill, Robert Griffin III, Jakob Coker, MLB from Lorena, Crawford football coach Delbert Kelm and our "Where are they Now?" segment with former Baylor TE Alonzo Pierce.
David Smoak
We have a packed show, Jackie Sherrill, Robert Griffin III, Jakob Coker, MLB from Lorena, Crawford football coach Delbert Kelm and our "Where are they Now?" segment with former Baylor TE Alonzo Pierce.
David Smoak
Sunday, November 14, 2010
A triple-header of HS broadcasts again this week...
We've picked-up three high school game broadcasts again this week.
Thursday, November 18th:
La Vega vs. Kirbyville, 7:15pm, Turner Stadium, Humble (Mix929)
Friday, November 19th:
Crawford vs. Spearman, 7:15pm, Seymour (1660ESPN)
Saturday, November 20th:
Marlin vs. Tatum, 6:45pm (Mix929)
And, we'll have the OU-Baylor game on 1660ESPN on Saturday night, tailgate pregame show at 5:00pm.
David Smoak
Thursday, November 18th:
La Vega vs. Kirbyville, 7:15pm, Turner Stadium, Humble (Mix929)
Friday, November 19th:
Crawford vs. Spearman, 7:15pm, Seymour (1660ESPN)
Saturday, November 20th:
Marlin vs. Tatum, 6:45pm (Mix929)
And, we'll have the OU-Baylor game on 1660ESPN on Saturday night, tailgate pregame show at 5:00pm.
David Smoak
Baylor's tough loss, Tailgate Party...
We had a tremendous showing at the pregame tailgate party on Saturday at Floyd Casey Stadium.
All three stations were there, 1660ESPN, 1049 The Beat and Mix 929. It's great to be at a station with true and legitimate camaraderie and people who truly care about each other.
We had fajita meat galore, chili, pork butt and the biggest and best smoker/tailer/cooker I've ever used, thanks to our man, Edward Graham.
Wow, it's so big walk inside of there's a large area to use as a grill and a big top to bottom smoker box. And, there's plenty of counter space and storage area and it comes with a double sink.
Everything is run by generator and it's a monster.
We also had a huge flat-screen outside to watch the games and a large tent.
Kyle Walton is the MAN when it comes to cooking, he has every piece of cooking equipment known to man. He travels around the southwest in competitions and he had it all.
We had current and former Baylor students drop by, sponsors and just friends from throughout Waco.
My wife, Cindy, surprised the hell out of me by showing up mid-afternoon, driving in from Tyler and that was awesome too.
A handful of people from the station knew she was coming in but no one told me so I'd be surprised.
It was a great day, and Baylor had A&M in trouble at 30-14 at halftime but couldn't finish the deal.
It really appeared to me that A&M came out and just became more physical on both sides of the ball and the Bears didn't respond well at all.
Even after all that---Baylor had a couple of possessions midway to late in the fourth-quarter to take the lead, but couldn't do it.
Aaron Jones, the kicker has an awful game, missed an extra point, had a FG blocked that was almost returned for a TD and then missed two others...that killed Baylor.
Bears host OU this Saturday night on either ABC or ESPN...should be another great week.
Smoaky
All three stations were there, 1660ESPN, 1049 The Beat and Mix 929. It's great to be at a station with true and legitimate camaraderie and people who truly care about each other.
We had fajita meat galore, chili, pork butt and the biggest and best smoker/tailer/cooker I've ever used, thanks to our man, Edward Graham.
Wow, it's so big walk inside of there's a large area to use as a grill and a big top to bottom smoker box. And, there's plenty of counter space and storage area and it comes with a double sink.
Everything is run by generator and it's a monster.
We also had a huge flat-screen outside to watch the games and a large tent.
Kyle Walton is the MAN when it comes to cooking, he has every piece of cooking equipment known to man. He travels around the southwest in competitions and he had it all.
We had current and former Baylor students drop by, sponsors and just friends from throughout Waco.
My wife, Cindy, surprised the hell out of me by showing up mid-afternoon, driving in from Tyler and that was awesome too.
A handful of people from the station knew she was coming in but no one told me so I'd be surprised.
It was a great day, and Baylor had A&M in trouble at 30-14 at halftime but couldn't finish the deal.
It really appeared to me that A&M came out and just became more physical on both sides of the ball and the Bears didn't respond well at all.
Even after all that---Baylor had a couple of possessions midway to late in the fourth-quarter to take the lead, but couldn't do it.
Aaron Jones, the kicker has an awful game, missed an extra point, had a FG blocked that was almost returned for a TD and then missed two others...that killed Baylor.
Bears host OU this Saturday night on either ABC or ESPN...should be another great week.
Smoaky
Friday, November 12, 2010
We're tailgating...
Well, we have the game broadcast tonight here in Burleson but when it's over my complete focus will be on Saturday's tailgate party at Floyd Casey Stadium.
We've gathered and compiled a lot of goodies to cook, fajitas, sausage, and I'm making a very large pot of the "Bama Grape Jelly Chili" for anyone interested.
Should be perfect weather with the cold-front that came through earlier tonight.
All three of our radio stations are working the tailgate, including Mix929 and 1049TheBeat.
Looking forward to it and it's perfect timing, everyone has been pushing very hard and we've had a great fall. Time for everyone to let their hair down and chill out a little bit and enjoy the camaraderie.
If you're tailgating tomorrow, drop by and talk sports or just drop by and eat. We'll have plenty.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
We've gathered and compiled a lot of goodies to cook, fajitas, sausage, and I'm making a very large pot of the "Bama Grape Jelly Chili" for anyone interested.
Should be perfect weather with the cold-front that came through earlier tonight.
All three of our radio stations are working the tailgate, including Mix929 and 1049TheBeat.
Looking forward to it and it's perfect timing, everyone has been pushing very hard and we've had a great fall. Time for everyone to let their hair down and chill out a little bit and enjoy the camaraderie.
If you're tailgating tomorrow, drop by and talk sports or just drop by and eat. We'll have plenty.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
As the temperatures changes...
It's 5:10pm on a Friday evening in Burleson, Texas and the temperature has dropped from the lower-70's to upper-50's since we arrived at 2:00pm.
Windy, cooler, playoff weather as we bring you the La Vega-Fairfield game tonight on Mix929.
Smoaky
Windy, cooler, playoff weather as we bring you the La Vega-Fairfield game tonight on Mix929.
Smoaky
Thursday, November 11, 2010
H.S. Football Playoffs Begin...
It's the opening night of the high school football playoffs and Texas and we're broadcasting "You Make The Call" live from Lion Memorial Stadium in Ennis.
Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson and I are broadcasting a Class 3-A, Division I bi-district game between Madisonville and Gatesville.
Both teams are 5-5 but finished the season strong.
Over the past two weeks, Gatesville has recovered an onside kick to continue their comeback against Robinson and then blocked a field goal to seal the win and get into the playoffs. The week before they blocked a La Vega extra point and ran it back for 2-points to seal a win against the Pirates that put them in position to be a playoff team.
We'll be in Burleson on Friday for La Vega-Fairfield.
David Smoak
Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson and I are broadcasting a Class 3-A, Division I bi-district game between Madisonville and Gatesville.
Both teams are 5-5 but finished the season strong.
Over the past two weeks, Gatesville has recovered an onside kick to continue their comeback against Robinson and then blocked a field goal to seal the win and get into the playoffs. The week before they blocked a La Vega extra point and ran it back for 2-points to seal a win against the Pirates that put them in position to be a playoff team.
We'll be in Burleson on Friday for La Vega-Fairfield.
David Smoak
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
A long, tough week but very enjoyable....
I knew this would be a tough and difficult week when we decided to broadcast three high school games during the opening week of the playoffs, and then---I couldn't resist, why not tailgate throughout the day on Saturday leading up to A&M @ Baylor at Floyd Casey Stadium?
Well, we're going to get it done and do it right.
Broadcasting the games is the easy part, preparing for the games with the system I use is time-consuming and very tedious.
I've been using the Power Point system for years and it's great, but it can take some time to create a team that I haven't done before, like this week, games involving both Fairfield and Madisonville.
Gathering the information, depth charts, stats, roster, schedule/results, coaching history, program history and I'm sure I'm forgetting something and putting it into a Power Point form is worth the time and effort.
I do all of the above, send to Kinko's for them to print on 8 1/2 x 14 paper in color, then place each team's offense and defense in flip-flop order and then laminate. Three copies for each team for our sideline reporter, color analyst and me.
When a team we've been covering or have covered is involved, it's a little easier...it's tweaking a few personnel changes and revising the stats.
I can prepare a team we've done before like this week, Gatesville and/or La Vega or throughout the season (China Spring) in a matter of 5-10 minutes.
Putting a new team in the system can take anywhere from an hour to 2-3 hours.
Well, I've sent the depth charts to Kinko's here in Waco for the Madisonville-Gatesville game and for La Vega vs. Fairfield.
Hey, I'm not complaining, I love it and I can't wait to be involved in broadcasting those games.
Smoaky
Well, we're going to get it done and do it right.
Broadcasting the games is the easy part, preparing for the games with the system I use is time-consuming and very tedious.
I've been using the Power Point system for years and it's great, but it can take some time to create a team that I haven't done before, like this week, games involving both Fairfield and Madisonville.
Gathering the information, depth charts, stats, roster, schedule/results, coaching history, program history and I'm sure I'm forgetting something and putting it into a Power Point form is worth the time and effort.
I do all of the above, send to Kinko's for them to print on 8 1/2 x 14 paper in color, then place each team's offense and defense in flip-flop order and then laminate. Three copies for each team for our sideline reporter, color analyst and me.
When a team we've been covering or have covered is involved, it's a little easier...it's tweaking a few personnel changes and revising the stats.
I can prepare a team we've done before like this week, Gatesville and/or La Vega or throughout the season (China Spring) in a matter of 5-10 minutes.
Putting a new team in the system can take anywhere from an hour to 2-3 hours.
Well, I've sent the depth charts to Kinko's here in Waco for the Madisonville-Gatesville game and for La Vega vs. Fairfield.
Hey, I'm not complaining, I love it and I can't wait to be involved in broadcasting those games.
Smoaky
Our new website is finally launched....
Well, after several weeks of work and preparation we have launched our new website, http://www.1660espn.com/.
Please send any suggestions or feedback to me by email at smoaky@1660espn.com.
I want to thank Beth Richards from our sister station Mix929 for her thankless hours of work behind the scene in changing the information, logos, url's and everything imaginable from one site to the new one.
Also, Triton Digital Media has been great to work with and they did a great job creating the site.
We have a few gremlins to figure out and some bumps and bruises that will pop up but we're excited about the site and we hope you are as well.
Smoaky
Please send any suggestions or feedback to me by email at smoaky@1660espn.com.
I want to thank Beth Richards from our sister station Mix929 for her thankless hours of work behind the scene in changing the information, logos, url's and everything imaginable from one site to the new one.
Also, Triton Digital Media has been great to work with and they did a great job creating the site.
We have a few gremlins to figure out and some bumps and bruises that will pop up but we're excited about the site and we hope you are as well.
Smoaky
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Should be a great week on 1660ESPN Radio-Waco
I'm as pumped up about this week as I was my first week back in late-June.
We'll have some great topics, including a week long preview of Texas A&M @ Baylor, with interviews from Art Briles, Mike Sherman, and a player or two.
We'll also discuss and predict the opening week of the Bi-District playoffs throughout Central Texas.
And, I'm asking this question on Monday. Who has been a bigger disappointment in football, UT or the Cowboys? Cowboys are about to kickoff at Green Bay on NBC.
We'll have our regular list of analysts and much more.
David Smoak
We'll have some great topics, including a week long preview of Texas A&M @ Baylor, with interviews from Art Briles, Mike Sherman, and a player or two.
We'll also discuss and predict the opening week of the Bi-District playoffs throughout Central Texas.
And, I'm asking this question on Monday. Who has been a bigger disappointment in football, UT or the Cowboys? Cowboys are about to kickoff at Green Bay on NBC.
We'll have our regular list of analysts and much more.
David Smoak
We'll broadcast three games during the Bi-District Playoffs
Thursday, November 11th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(5-5) Madisonville vs. (5-5) Gatesville, 7:30pm, Ennis
(David Smoak, Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson, Sideline-TBA)
Friday, November 12th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(6-4) La Vega vs. (9-1) Fairfield, 7:30pm, Burleson
(David Smoak, Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson, Sideline-TBA)
Saturday, November 13th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(7-3) Teague vs. (7-3) Marlin, 7:30pm, Waco I.S.D. Stadium
(Tom Barfield and Johnny Tusa)
(5-5) Madisonville vs. (5-5) Gatesville, 7:30pm, Ennis
(David Smoak, Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson, Sideline-TBA)
Friday, November 12th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(6-4) La Vega vs. (9-1) Fairfield, 7:30pm, Burleson
(David Smoak, Paul Catalina, Rich Richardson, Sideline-TBA)
Saturday, November 13th: (Pre-Game at 7:15pm)
(7-3) Teague vs. (7-3) Marlin, 7:30pm, Waco I.S.D. Stadium
(Tom Barfield and Johnny Tusa)
Central Texas H.S. Football Schedule (Bi-District Schedule)
Central Texas Bi-District H.S. Football Schedule
Class 5-A, Division II, Region II:
(5-5) Belton vs. (6-4) Longview, Saturday, 7:30pm, Kincaide Stadium, Dallas
(9-1) Copperas Cove vs. Mesquite Horn, Friday, 7:30pm, Tarleton State
Class 4-A, Division I, Region I:
(8-2) Mansfield Summit vs. (8-2) Killeen, Friday, 7:30pm, Glen Rose
(10-0) Waco Midway vs. (6-4) Granbury, Friday, 7:30pm, Corsicana
Class 4-A, Division II, Region I:
(8-2) Everman vs. (4-6) Waco High, Friday, 7:30pm, Waco I.S.D. Stadium
Region II:
(7-3) Corsicana vs. (7-3) Bastrop, Thursday, 7:00pm, Panther Stadium, Waco-Midway H.S.
Class 3-A, Division I:
(5-5) Gatesville vs. (5-5) Madisonville, Thursday, 7:00pm, Ennis
Class 3-A, Division II:
(3-7) West vs. (8-2) Bridgeport, Friday, 7:30pm, DeSoto
(9-1) Lorena vs. (7-3) Mexia, Thursday, 7:00pm, Temple
(6-4) Waco La Vega vs. (9-1) Fairfield, Friday, 7:30pm, Burleson
Class 2-A, Division I:
(9-1) Malakoff vs. (4-6) McGregor, Thursday, 7:00pm, Corsicana
(7-3) Teague vs. (7-3) Marlin, Saturday, 7:00pm, Waco I.S.D. Stadium
Class 2-A, Division II:
(5-5) Hamilton vs. (3-7) Henrietta, Friday, 7:30pm, Springtown
(7-3) Hico vs. (6-4) Alvord, Friday, 7:30pm, Saginaw Boswell
(7-3) Axtell vs. (7-3) Franklin, Thursday, 7:30pm, Fairfield
Class 1-A, Division I:
(8-2) Kerens vs. (5-5) Bosqueville, Friday, 7:30pm, Waxahachie
(4-6) Moody vs. (8-2) West Sabine, Friday, 7:30pm, Troup
Class 1-A, Division II:
(7-3) Chilton vs. (5-4) Gorman, Saturday, 1:00pm, Glen Rose
(5-5) Dawson vs. (4-6) Ranger, Friday, 7:30pm, Godley
Six-Man, Division I:
(8-2) Penelope vs. (7-3) Apple Springs, Friday, 7:00pm, Elkhart
(7-3) Aquilla vs. (7-2) Oakwood, Friday, 7:30pm, Hubbard
(8-2) Walnut Springs vs. Irving Universal Academy, TBA
Six-Man, Division II:
(10-0) Milford vs. (7-3) Harrold, Friday, 7:30pm, Zephyr
(10-0) Jonesboro vs. (7-3) Gustine, TBA
(8-2) Iredell vs. (8-2) Sidney, TBA
TAPPS:
Division II:
(7-3) Waco Reicher vs. Grapevine Faith, TBA
Division IV:
(7-3) Texas Christian Academy @ Muenster Sacred Heart, Friday, 7:30pm
-----
Temple Holy Trinity @ Dallas The Covenant, Saturday, 1:00pm
Friday, November 5, 2010
H.S. Regular Season Ends tonight...
There are a handful of games around Texas on Saturday, but for the most part the 2010 high school football season ends tonight, that's the regular season.
Can't believe it's almost over.
It's been one of the most enjoyable seasons I've been around since I began my broadcasting career in November, 1981.
In many ways, it's been nice to get back to the basics, the guts of Texas high school football, Class 3-A.
We have a really good one tonight, not sure who wins, really have no clue, but the winner all but assures themselves of a playoff berth, China Spring @ La Vega at Pirate Stadium.
If China Spring wins or loses by 2-or less, or wins straight up they're in.
If La Vega wins by 4-or-more they're in and China Spring is out.
If La Vega wins by exactly and Gatesville beats Robinson, they will have a three-team coin flip.
We'll have an interesting night to say the least.
David Smoak
Can't believe it's almost over.
It's been one of the most enjoyable seasons I've been around since I began my broadcasting career in November, 1981.
In many ways, it's been nice to get back to the basics, the guts of Texas high school football, Class 3-A.
We have a really good one tonight, not sure who wins, really have no clue, but the winner all but assures themselves of a playoff berth, China Spring @ La Vega at Pirate Stadium.
If China Spring wins or loses by 2-or less, or wins straight up they're in.
If La Vega wins by 4-or-more they're in and China Spring is out.
If La Vega wins by exactly and Gatesville beats Robinson, they will have a three-team coin flip.
We'll have an interesting night to say the least.
David Smoak
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Catching up on several items (Sorry it's been so long since last post)
Our staff at 1660ESPN Radio has been running and gunning and we're focused on the final week of the high school football season and what and who we might be able to broadcast and cover during the playoffs.
China Spring needs to beat La Vega or lose by 2-points or less for their broadcasts to continue. If they tie La Vega, they'll have a coin flip involving La Vega and Gatesville.
If China Spring loses by 4-points or more, they're done.
And, how fortunate are we to ride the wave of the near perfect storm of topics this fall.
1) Baylor is enjoying an amazing season, bowl eligible, ranked in all the polls and coming off wins against Colorado, K-State and at Texas.
2) Rangers get to the World Series.
3) Cowboys are in a free fall and it can't get much worse than losing to the Jaguars at home, or can it?
4) H.S. Football season--no matter who moves into the playoffs---covering high school football has been a passion of mine for 30+-years.
And, with all the above going on we're about the launch into the 2010-2001 Men's and Women's College Basketball Season, Lady Bears are #2 in both polls, Baylor men ranked among the top 20 in both polls.
This has been great.
Also, we cracked a sales figure no one thought possible when I arrived in late-June. I said we'd one day break $100,000 within a year.
We passed $90,000 in October. Special thanks to Terry Tacker, Rich Richardson, Becky LeGrand, Linda Hill, Kisha Davis and Bill LeGrand. Without them, we don't hit that goal.
I gave the sales department a hefty goal and then tried to put some sponsorships and ideas in front of them and they ran like the wind.
We'll have our work cut out for us to get near that goal over the next 3-6 months but who knows, no one thought we'd hit $90,000 this quickly either.
We've moved basically everything into our new building off 340/6 and Bagby...what a nice place, still not completely settled in but it's a tremendous upgrade from where we were, and where we were was pretty nice.
Our five new studios in the back are built, now it's about a 2-3-4 week process to add everything, thousands of feet or wires, new computers, consoles and so much more.
I can't wait for us to have an Open House to show it off---everyone is very excited.
It's so nice to be involved with a company that is growing and we're about to add 2-3 new frequencies to what we already have including 1-2 of them being able to simulcast 1660ESPN...deeper to the south.
Our goal is to one day have a regional network, but we have plenty on our plate for now.
The radio business is very competitive and some stations are either stagnant or losing their grip and it's tough out there...so fortunate to be with a company that is growing each day.
Personally, our son Craig continues kicking butt at his station in Tyler/Longview (99.3FM) and he's booking of guests is very impressive. He's such talented and incredibly passionate, and he's grown up into a man over the past year and a half. If I've written this before, bare with me, but he's so much more talented than I could ever dream of and now he's building his own nest and creating his own identity. We have some rather lengthy phone calls multiple times a day, mostly about life in general and our late-night talks are special, very special and I look forward to them.
Our daughter, Jennifer, just started her new job with a bank in north Dallas and she's so excited, great benefits, good pay, and definitely something she's interested in. She still has some interest in radio/television and even trying out for the Mavs Dancers again next summer, but this opportunity at the bank is really cool.
Cindy continues to kick ass with her job as V.P. of SporTyler at the Chamber of Commerce in Tyler. Yes, she's still there---my recruiting efforts (and those of others is working but it appears we'll have to wait until the spring to put it on the market for the best value). Cindy has a great job and loves it and it wouldn't be fair to ask her to leave "yet" but we'll see. She came down last weekend, we just vegged-out and watched college football. She's a huge sports fan too and you've never seen passion until you witness her watching an OU football game.
I can't imagine anyone getting that worked up over their favorite college football team. I'd never dream of yelling and screaming while watching my 'Huskers on television.
Okay, my nose is growing...I'm the worst.
I have an update on my mom, she was hospitalized back during the early part of the football season and was in recovery and in rehab but suffered a setback. But, they did a procedure about 2-3 weeks ago that really gave her renewed energy and she was doing well.
My two older brothers, Mike and Robert called me this week to inform me of her temperature rising and of course that was a concern but it's apparently been corrected.
I just talked with her late last week and I could tell she was doing better because she was grumpy...seriously, she's tired of that place. I can relate and I only spent 9-days in the hospital, she's been there for several weeks.
I know it's worn out my father---he's lost without her and then again, maybe he's getting some peace and quiet because he pampered my mother, always has---and believe me, she took advantage of it :)
I can't believe it's been over four-months since I arrived at ESPN Waco on June 22nd, it's flown by and so many good people in this area have made my time here very special. And, just think, we've only just begun...a lot has been accomplished but we still have a lot of work to do.
Okay, I just realized I could be in trouble.
If the time of this blog is posted once I click "publish," my doctor is going to thump me in the forehead or kick me in the...
I'm on strict orders even 3-4 weeks after the double-pneumonia to shut it down and not work late into the night.
Oh well, thank goodness I didn't blog over the past 2-3 nights...or excuse me, early mornings.
I can't resist, lots of work to do and a lot of time to make up.
Have a great week and stay in touch.
Smoaky
China Spring needs to beat La Vega or lose by 2-points or less for their broadcasts to continue. If they tie La Vega, they'll have a coin flip involving La Vega and Gatesville.
If China Spring loses by 4-points or more, they're done.
And, how fortunate are we to ride the wave of the near perfect storm of topics this fall.
1) Baylor is enjoying an amazing season, bowl eligible, ranked in all the polls and coming off wins against Colorado, K-State and at Texas.
2) Rangers get to the World Series.
3) Cowboys are in a free fall and it can't get much worse than losing to the Jaguars at home, or can it?
4) H.S. Football season--no matter who moves into the playoffs---covering high school football has been a passion of mine for 30+-years.
And, with all the above going on we're about the launch into the 2010-2001 Men's and Women's College Basketball Season, Lady Bears are #2 in both polls, Baylor men ranked among the top 20 in both polls.
This has been great.
Also, we cracked a sales figure no one thought possible when I arrived in late-June. I said we'd one day break $100,000 within a year.
We passed $90,000 in October. Special thanks to Terry Tacker, Rich Richardson, Becky LeGrand, Linda Hill, Kisha Davis and Bill LeGrand. Without them, we don't hit that goal.
I gave the sales department a hefty goal and then tried to put some sponsorships and ideas in front of them and they ran like the wind.
We'll have our work cut out for us to get near that goal over the next 3-6 months but who knows, no one thought we'd hit $90,000 this quickly either.
We've moved basically everything into our new building off 340/6 and Bagby...what a nice place, still not completely settled in but it's a tremendous upgrade from where we were, and where we were was pretty nice.
Our five new studios in the back are built, now it's about a 2-3-4 week process to add everything, thousands of feet or wires, new computers, consoles and so much more.
I can't wait for us to have an Open House to show it off---everyone is very excited.
It's so nice to be involved with a company that is growing and we're about to add 2-3 new frequencies to what we already have including 1-2 of them being able to simulcast 1660ESPN...deeper to the south.
Our goal is to one day have a regional network, but we have plenty on our plate for now.
The radio business is very competitive and some stations are either stagnant or losing their grip and it's tough out there...so fortunate to be with a company that is growing each day.
Personally, our son Craig continues kicking butt at his station in Tyler/Longview (99.3FM) and he's booking of guests is very impressive. He's such talented and incredibly passionate, and he's grown up into a man over the past year and a half. If I've written this before, bare with me, but he's so much more talented than I could ever dream of and now he's building his own nest and creating his own identity. We have some rather lengthy phone calls multiple times a day, mostly about life in general and our late-night talks are special, very special and I look forward to them.
Our daughter, Jennifer, just started her new job with a bank in north Dallas and she's so excited, great benefits, good pay, and definitely something she's interested in. She still has some interest in radio/television and even trying out for the Mavs Dancers again next summer, but this opportunity at the bank is really cool.
Cindy continues to kick ass with her job as V.P. of SporTyler at the Chamber of Commerce in Tyler. Yes, she's still there---my recruiting efforts (and those of others is working but it appears we'll have to wait until the spring to put it on the market for the best value). Cindy has a great job and loves it and it wouldn't be fair to ask her to leave "yet" but we'll see. She came down last weekend, we just vegged-out and watched college football. She's a huge sports fan too and you've never seen passion until you witness her watching an OU football game.
I can't imagine anyone getting that worked up over their favorite college football team. I'd never dream of yelling and screaming while watching my 'Huskers on television.
Okay, my nose is growing...I'm the worst.
I have an update on my mom, she was hospitalized back during the early part of the football season and was in recovery and in rehab but suffered a setback. But, they did a procedure about 2-3 weeks ago that really gave her renewed energy and she was doing well.
My two older brothers, Mike and Robert called me this week to inform me of her temperature rising and of course that was a concern but it's apparently been corrected.
I just talked with her late last week and I could tell she was doing better because she was grumpy...seriously, she's tired of that place. I can relate and I only spent 9-days in the hospital, she's been there for several weeks.
I know it's worn out my father---he's lost without her and then again, maybe he's getting some peace and quiet because he pampered my mother, always has---and believe me, she took advantage of it :)
I can't believe it's been over four-months since I arrived at ESPN Waco on June 22nd, it's flown by and so many good people in this area have made my time here very special. And, just think, we've only just begun...a lot has been accomplished but we still have a lot of work to do.
Okay, I just realized I could be in trouble.
If the time of this blog is posted once I click "publish," my doctor is going to thump me in the forehead or kick me in the...
I'm on strict orders even 3-4 weeks after the double-pneumonia to shut it down and not work late into the night.
Oh well, thank goodness I didn't blog over the past 2-3 nights...or excuse me, early mornings.
I can't resist, lots of work to do and a lot of time to make up.
Have a great week and stay in touch.
Smoaky
Friday, October 29, 2010
The "Perfect Storm" of Topics continues...
1) Baylor is Bowl-Eligible, ranked in the AP and USA Today/Coaches Poll, 25th in the BCS Standings and playing against Texas in Austin on Saturday.
2) H.S. Football Season is winding down with two weeks left in the regular season, playoff implications throughout the schedule.
3) Rangers trying to regroup from being down 2-games to none against the Giants in the World Series. Game's 3-4-5 are in Arlington this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. I have to say, Game 5 is "if necessary" if the Rangers don't snap out of their "all of a sudden" funk.
4) Cowboys are in meltdown mode at 1-5 and Romo is out...
Smoaky
2) H.S. Football Season is winding down with two weeks left in the regular season, playoff implications throughout the schedule.
3) Rangers trying to regroup from being down 2-games to none against the Giants in the World Series. Game's 3-4-5 are in Arlington this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. I have to say, Game 5 is "if necessary" if the Rangers don't snap out of their "all of a sudden" funk.
4) Cowboys are in meltdown mode at 1-5 and Romo is out...
Smoaky
Monday, October 25, 2010
Cowboys season on the line and now without their QB...
Cowboys couldn't have asked for a better start to their Monday Night Game against the Giants, well---until their season appeared dead when QB Tony Romo was sacked and injured in the first half.
Cowboys have three turnovers after four total during their first five games.
Dez Bryant electrified the crowd with a 93-yard TD on a punt return in the second-quarter, but even that wasn't enough to lead at halftime.
NYG QB Eli Manning who threw two interceptions during the Giants first two drives has been on fire with his passing and even play-calling (audibles) throughout the second quarter.
Giants also ended the first half with a 53-yard field goal to lead (despite the turnovers and Bryant PR-TD), 24-20.
Not sure if the Cowboys can emotionally regroup but with their season on the line at 1-4, they better dig real deep or else.
Also, who will Dallas look at signing among the veterans who are unemployed?
Smoaky
Cowboys have three turnovers after four total during their first five games.
Dez Bryant electrified the crowd with a 93-yard TD on a punt return in the second-quarter, but even that wasn't enough to lead at halftime.
NYG QB Eli Manning who threw two interceptions during the Giants first two drives has been on fire with his passing and even play-calling (audibles) throughout the second quarter.
Giants also ended the first half with a 53-yard field goal to lead (despite the turnovers and Bryant PR-TD), 24-20.
Not sure if the Cowboys can emotionally regroup but with their season on the line at 1-4, they better dig real deep or else.
Also, who will Dallas look at signing among the veterans who are unemployed?
Smoaky
Baylor Football gives Waco an emotional lift....
Not that anything was wrong around here in the Waco area, but the Baylor football team has given this community and area a big-time emotional life with their Homecoming victory against Kansas State.
The win, 47-42, not only broke a 15-year drought of being Bowl eligible, the Bears found out on Sunday they were ranked in two polls, AP and USA Today/Coaches, and they're 25th in the latest BCS Standings.
Talk about knocking down a few doors in one 24-hour span.
Art Briles and his program have a lot in front of them, including what will be an angry group of Longhorns this Saturday in Austin, but they have popped the balloon in some cases and I wonder if becoming Bowl eligible will allow this team to play even better because they'll have nothing to lose.
Bears have two difficult road games at UT and also in Stillwater, and then home games against Texas A&M and OU.
Just a thought.
Smoaky
The win, 47-42, not only broke a 15-year drought of being Bowl eligible, the Bears found out on Sunday they were ranked in two polls, AP and USA Today/Coaches, and they're 25th in the latest BCS Standings.
Talk about knocking down a few doors in one 24-hour span.
Art Briles and his program have a lot in front of them, including what will be an angry group of Longhorns this Saturday in Austin, but they have popped the balloon in some cases and I wonder if becoming Bowl eligible will allow this team to play even better because they'll have nothing to lose.
Bears have two difficult road games at UT and also in Stillwater, and then home games against Texas A&M and OU.
Just a thought.
Smoaky
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Us against the Technical Gremlins
We're another day into our move from downtown to our new building on Bagby off 340/6 and we're still working through some technical gremlins.
While we're moving, we still must give the audience the quality they expect and deserve, but we've had some issues with phone lines and wires and whatever else being moved and not always in sync.
After today's show at Click's, I went straight back to the station to discuss some of the issues with our owner and one of the engineers.
After explaining our concerns and frustrations from being on location with what's going on in the 1660 studio and what they're working on within our building---I think we were able to figure out some of the problems almost immediately.
We're in the communication business but sometimes we're the worst at communicating.
Smoaky
While we're moving, we still must give the audience the quality they expect and deserve, but we've had some issues with phone lines and wires and whatever else being moved and not always in sync.
After today's show at Click's, I went straight back to the station to discuss some of the issues with our owner and one of the engineers.
After explaining our concerns and frustrations from being on location with what's going on in the 1660 studio and what they're working on within our building---I think we were able to figure out some of the problems almost immediately.
We're in the communication business but sometimes we're the worst at communicating.
Smoaky
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Our move is going well, Rangers on the verge of history...
Let's start with the Rangers.
As a lifelong fan of the team through more thin than thick, I admit almost giving up on the series with the Yankees after their Game 1 late-inning meltdown.
But, this team has been resilient throughout the year and now find themselves a game away from the World Series.
Okay, I need to stop for a second and read that last sentence again.
The Rangers find themselves a win away from the World Series.
Wow.
Pitching, defense and timely hitting and the Rangers have the Yankees on the ropes.
Game 5 today, C.J. Wilson against C.C. Sabbathia and is it possible the series ends today?
We don't have a show, might be a good thing because if Rangers win game 5, I will be celebrating somewhere.
Meanwhile, our radio station(s) continue the long process of moving from our downtown location to our new location at 5501 Bagby off 340/6.
Very nice facility, one story, OUR building, lots of space and parking and it overlooks Cottonwood Golf Course. Yes, I'll be "accidentally" hitting a few iron shots from the side of our building onto the green just below...looks like a good wedge or 9-iron.
Smoaky
As a lifelong fan of the team through more thin than thick, I admit almost giving up on the series with the Yankees after their Game 1 late-inning meltdown.
But, this team has been resilient throughout the year and now find themselves a game away from the World Series.
Okay, I need to stop for a second and read that last sentence again.
The Rangers find themselves a win away from the World Series.
Wow.
Pitching, defense and timely hitting and the Rangers have the Yankees on the ropes.
Game 5 today, C.J. Wilson against C.C. Sabbathia and is it possible the series ends today?
We don't have a show, might be a good thing because if Rangers win game 5, I will be celebrating somewhere.
Meanwhile, our radio station(s) continue the long process of moving from our downtown location to our new location at 5501 Bagby off 340/6.
Very nice facility, one story, OUR building, lots of space and parking and it overlooks Cottonwood Golf Course. Yes, I'll be "accidentally" hitting a few iron shots from the side of our building onto the green just below...looks like a good wedge or 9-iron.
Smoaky
Saturday, October 16, 2010
My 'Huskers weren't ready for the limelight...
Nebraska safety Eric Hagg made a sensational play to give Nebraska life against Texas, but too little to late and the 'Huskers, although getting better under Bo Pelini, were overrated and quite frankly they hyperventilated against Texas.
Congrats to Texas, huge win for Mack and Company, they always seem to bounce back anytime they struggle early and now they're back in the mix for the Big 12 title.
Nebraska will need every bit of pride and leadership to regroup to beat Oklahoma State in Stillwater next weekend.
Oh well, the good news is spending time with my incredible family this weekend in Tyler.
Now, time to turn the attention to Baylor @ Colorado.
David Smoak
Congrats to Texas, huge win for Mack and Company, they always seem to bounce back anytime they struggle early and now they're back in the mix for the Big 12 title.
Nebraska will need every bit of pride and leadership to regroup to beat Oklahoma State in Stillwater next weekend.
Oh well, the good news is spending time with my incredible family this weekend in Tyler.
Now, time to turn the attention to Baylor @ Colorado.
David Smoak
I told you so...
I said this to start the week and I'll say it as UT is thumping Nebraska in Lincoln.
I'm a lifelong and very proud Nebraska football fan, but I've learned a lot in life, including, death, taxes and UT beats Nebraska in football.
And, they've had the perfect script today to do it again and kick-start their season.
UT took advantage of great field position and took Nebraska right out of there game with an early lead and shut down 'Huskers QB Taylor Martinez.
I still think Martinez is very good, but you have to learn some hard lessons along the way...and he did today.
Mack Brown's best wins throughout his entire career at Texas (other than bowl games) have been on the road and away from Austin.
Smoaky
I'm a lifelong and very proud Nebraska football fan, but I've learned a lot in life, including, death, taxes and UT beats Nebraska in football.
And, they've had the perfect script today to do it again and kick-start their season.
UT took advantage of great field position and took Nebraska right out of there game with an early lead and shut down 'Huskers QB Taylor Martinez.
I still think Martinez is very good, but you have to learn some hard lessons along the way...and he did today.
Mack Brown's best wins throughout his entire career at Texas (other than bowl games) have been on the road and away from Austin.
Smoaky
Friday, October 15, 2010
Friday night high school football
Our crew is here at Cougar Stadium in China Spring for their game against district rival Robinson.
Robinson has won three straight, including their district opener against Connally (42-12), and China Spring is (4-2) coming off a 24-21 win against Gatesville.
Winner will insure at least a tie for the lead in District 19-3A at 2-0, and Lorena (1-0) is playing at Gatesville (0-1) and could be 2-0 as well.
Lorena will host China Spring next Friday.
The weather is absolutely picture perfect.
Our broadcast will be on both 1660ESPN Radio and Mix 92.9.
Smoaky
Robinson has won three straight, including their district opener against Connally (42-12), and China Spring is (4-2) coming off a 24-21 win against Gatesville.
Winner will insure at least a tie for the lead in District 19-3A at 2-0, and Lorena (1-0) is playing at Gatesville (0-1) and could be 2-0 as well.
Lorena will host China Spring next Friday.
The weather is absolutely picture perfect.
Our broadcast will be on both 1660ESPN Radio and Mix 92.9.
Smoaky
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Good week so far...
About to leave for our appearance at Click's for "You Make The Call."
Big-time lineup packed with guests today from Rangers, Cowboys, Big 12, to BU Women's basketball and a segment on MCC Men's basketball.
Starting to get a little stronger each day although my voice still a little weak.
Oh well, I never had the great pipes anyway.
Just found out we sold the weekly Jennifer Floyd-Engel segment, greatness as we move towards a record-breaking month in sales.
Have a great day!
Smoaky
Big-time lineup packed with guests today from Rangers, Cowboys, Big 12, to BU Women's basketball and a segment on MCC Men's basketball.
Starting to get a little stronger each day although my voice still a little weak.
Oh well, I never had the great pipes anyway.
Just found out we sold the weekly Jennifer Floyd-Engel segment, greatness as we move towards a record-breaking month in sales.
Have a great day!
Smoaky
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Never thought I'd see the day, ...
After being a Rangers fan since before they were the Rangers, I always wondered if I'd see the day when the Rangers won a post-season series.
I still remember how good those teams were in the late-90's, but this 2010 has now set the standard, beating Tampa Bay 3-games to 2, and winning all three games on the road.
At least, Rangers fans will see their team again for a minimum of two games against the Yankees.
I was a Rangers fan while growing up in the late-60's, my father was working at the Pentagon and we lived in D.C. from 1967 until the summer of '71 before moving to Texas, right before the Rangers did.
I loved Frank Howard, the 6-8 powerful home run hitter...the Senators were terrible but I listened to their games every night on my transistor radio.
Smoaky
I still remember how good those teams were in the late-90's, but this 2010 has now set the standard, beating Tampa Bay 3-games to 2, and winning all three games on the road.
At least, Rangers fans will see their team again for a minimum of two games against the Yankees.
I was a Rangers fan while growing up in the late-60's, my father was working at the Pentagon and we lived in D.C. from 1967 until the summer of '71 before moving to Texas, right before the Rangers did.
I loved Frank Howard, the 6-8 powerful home run hitter...the Senators were terrible but I listened to their games every night on my transistor radio.
Smoaky
Monday, October 11, 2010
Back in the saddle again...
Well, just wrapped-up my first full day back in two weeks following my illness.
I have to say, I'm not 100% but feel good about putting in a full day.
My voice continues to be a little weak, but that will just take time and a few shows under my belt.
It was nice to see everyone at the office today, stayed busy with interviews at the BU football press conference so I wasn't there too much.
It was Butch Henry's birthday so Paul and I surprised him with a little "birthday love," and I mean this...I hope I have the same sharp mentality, health and energy as Butch when I'm his age. He's amazing.
The hardest part about my return is dealing with the fractured ribs, hard to deal with the on and off stinging pain when I'm standing up during the show.
I'm sleeping with a heating pad at night, feels much better, but I can't walk around everywhere with a heating pad...that would be considered a little weird and where am I going to find the electricity?
I have a couple of stick-on heating pads, might use one tomorrow.
Proud to say we're having another big month on 1660espn in sales, everyone is hammering away at what could be another record month.
I don't remember if I mentioned this earlier but we're moving to a new location sometime this month. My office is basically empty at sometime last week while I was gone, Tony Loomer Moving Company (inside joke) decided my desk wasn't useful for now and it's gone as are some bookcases and a few other items of need.
Oh well, the off-white, dingy plastic folding table matches the color on my walls.
I did spend about an hour on Sunday going through a lot of old folders that I didn't know existed...99% of it was no longer needed and so the office is lighter in more ways than one.
Watching Brett Favre and the Vikings look awful against the NY Jets and based on tonight's performance the Cowboys are very fortunate their MUST WIN this Sunday is against Minnesota.
I don't even know if Favre will finish the night much less be available against Dallas. Favre's been awful, two fumbled snaps, bad throws. Cowboys are about to catch a huge break. I think Randy Moss has handled the ball once, on reverse and throw to Favre that was called back for an ineligible receiver down field.
I'm not sure if a Cowboys win only delays the inevitable or helps them get kick-started.
Just watched another Vikings three-and-out. And, the Cowboys think they have problems?
Smoaky
I have to say, I'm not 100% but feel good about putting in a full day.
My voice continues to be a little weak, but that will just take time and a few shows under my belt.
It was nice to see everyone at the office today, stayed busy with interviews at the BU football press conference so I wasn't there too much.
It was Butch Henry's birthday so Paul and I surprised him with a little "birthday love," and I mean this...I hope I have the same sharp mentality, health and energy as Butch when I'm his age. He's amazing.
The hardest part about my return is dealing with the fractured ribs, hard to deal with the on and off stinging pain when I'm standing up during the show.
I'm sleeping with a heating pad at night, feels much better, but I can't walk around everywhere with a heating pad...that would be considered a little weird and where am I going to find the electricity?
I have a couple of stick-on heating pads, might use one tomorrow.
Proud to say we're having another big month on 1660espn in sales, everyone is hammering away at what could be another record month.
I don't remember if I mentioned this earlier but we're moving to a new location sometime this month. My office is basically empty at sometime last week while I was gone, Tony Loomer Moving Company (inside joke) decided my desk wasn't useful for now and it's gone as are some bookcases and a few other items of need.
Oh well, the off-white, dingy plastic folding table matches the color on my walls.
I did spend about an hour on Sunday going through a lot of old folders that I didn't know existed...99% of it was no longer needed and so the office is lighter in more ways than one.
Watching Brett Favre and the Vikings look awful against the NY Jets and based on tonight's performance the Cowboys are very fortunate their MUST WIN this Sunday is against Minnesota.
I don't even know if Favre will finish the night much less be available against Dallas. Favre's been awful, two fumbled snaps, bad throws. Cowboys are about to catch a huge break. I think Randy Moss has handled the ball once, on reverse and throw to Favre that was called back for an ineligible receiver down field.
I'm not sure if a Cowboys win only delays the inevitable or helps them get kick-started.
Just watched another Vikings three-and-out. And, the Cowboys think they have problems?
Smoaky
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Football Weekend Summary
Wow, the (1-3) Cowboys will play at what most likely will be the (1-3) Vikings in Minnesota next Sunday.
Who would've thunk it?
Vikings play on the road against the NY Jets on Monday night and if the Patriots couldn't beat the Jets with Randy Moss, why will the Vikings?
Can't believe the Cowboys are 1-3, but they are and must deal with it. They are a loss away from a locker room from hell. Somehow, someway, whenever they've had a cross roads "must win" game in recent years, they've found a way to win.
They did earlier this season at Houston when they were 0-2 and a year ago at the unbeaten Saints when they were splintered.
I've been a lifelong Redskins fan since I was old enough to know about football (about mid-60's) and there have been some fun years under Joe Gibbs and a few others, but the 'Skins have been mediocre at best (other than a couple of good years during Joe Gibbs II), so their 3-2 start with wins against Dallas, Philadelphia and Green Bay is nice, but---still not sold on them.
McNabb makes them better offensively, but they just struggle to score points. Their defense gives up a big play or two each game, but they really scratch and claw each week. I don't know if they've won a couple of close games due to the Mike Shanahan influence, but they're 3-2 and I didn't expect them to be 3-2 after 5-games.
In college football, Texas really needs a win this weekend the schedule is just what the doctor ordered, a trip to Lincoln, Nebraska.
I'm also a lifelong Nebraska football fan and one thing I know since the inception of the Big 12, UT has owned Nebraska. UT has beaten Nebraska in Lincoln, Austin, and even St. Louis in the first Big 12 Championship Game. That 37-27 UT win shocked the college football world and prevented Nebraska from playing in a fourth consecutive national championship game.
Since then, UT has beaten the 'Huskers whether they're better or not.
Nebraska did thump the 'Horns for the Big 12 title in 1999 in San Antonio, but earlier that year, in Austin, Texas edged Nebraska and that one loss also kept NU from another national championship game appearance.
Nebraska's offense has the electric QB Taylor Martinez, and defensively they're forcing turnovers but you watch, somehow, someway, Texas will find a way to win a game they MUST win...even as a heavy underdog. Mack Brown's best wins throughout his career at Texas have been away from Austin.
Baylor was so close to really putting themselves in the driver's seat for a bowl game appearance, but they just made too many mistakes defensively against Texas Tech and then didn't capitalize on a pair of offensive possessions in the fourth-quarter to win it or force overtime.
I wasn't even thinking about this, but Tech was 0-2 in conference play and they had to win, Taylor Potts was huge, important win for the Red Raiders but they better start playing better defense themselves.
Smoaky
Who would've thunk it?
Vikings play on the road against the NY Jets on Monday night and if the Patriots couldn't beat the Jets with Randy Moss, why will the Vikings?
Can't believe the Cowboys are 1-3, but they are and must deal with it. They are a loss away from a locker room from hell. Somehow, someway, whenever they've had a cross roads "must win" game in recent years, they've found a way to win.
They did earlier this season at Houston when they were 0-2 and a year ago at the unbeaten Saints when they were splintered.
I've been a lifelong Redskins fan since I was old enough to know about football (about mid-60's) and there have been some fun years under Joe Gibbs and a few others, but the 'Skins have been mediocre at best (other than a couple of good years during Joe Gibbs II), so their 3-2 start with wins against Dallas, Philadelphia and Green Bay is nice, but---still not sold on them.
McNabb makes them better offensively, but they just struggle to score points. Their defense gives up a big play or two each game, but they really scratch and claw each week. I don't know if they've won a couple of close games due to the Mike Shanahan influence, but they're 3-2 and I didn't expect them to be 3-2 after 5-games.
In college football, Texas really needs a win this weekend the schedule is just what the doctor ordered, a trip to Lincoln, Nebraska.
I'm also a lifelong Nebraska football fan and one thing I know since the inception of the Big 12, UT has owned Nebraska. UT has beaten Nebraska in Lincoln, Austin, and even St. Louis in the first Big 12 Championship Game. That 37-27 UT win shocked the college football world and prevented Nebraska from playing in a fourth consecutive national championship game.
Since then, UT has beaten the 'Huskers whether they're better or not.
Nebraska did thump the 'Horns for the Big 12 title in 1999 in San Antonio, but earlier that year, in Austin, Texas edged Nebraska and that one loss also kept NU from another national championship game appearance.
Nebraska's offense has the electric QB Taylor Martinez, and defensively they're forcing turnovers but you watch, somehow, someway, Texas will find a way to win a game they MUST win...even as a heavy underdog. Mack Brown's best wins throughout his career at Texas have been away from Austin.
Baylor was so close to really putting themselves in the driver's seat for a bowl game appearance, but they just made too many mistakes defensively against Texas Tech and then didn't capitalize on a pair of offensive possessions in the fourth-quarter to win it or force overtime.
I wasn't even thinking about this, but Tech was 0-2 in conference play and they had to win, Taylor Potts was huge, important win for the Red Raiders but they better start playing better defense themselves.
Smoaky
Saturday, October 9, 2010
What a sports weekend in DFW
Rangers about to start game 3 at the Ballpark in Arlington, Aggies and Hogs right across the street at Jerry's World.
Tech-Baylor at the Cotton Bowl and a couple of other Division I football games in the area.
Almost too many options for the sports fans...and there's Titans-Cowboys at 3:15pm Sunday in Arlington.
Smoaky
Tech-Baylor at the Cotton Bowl and a couple of other Division I football games in the area.
Almost too many options for the sports fans...and there's Titans-Cowboys at 3:15pm Sunday in Arlington.
Smoaky
Art Briles Tech Post-Game Nuggets
Briles mentioned being proud of his team to fight back from 17 points down to have two possessions to tie or win the game.
Mentioned he wasn't surprised to throw 40+ passes because his team was trying to come from behind, but would like to have had the lead and run the ball a little more and better.
Colorado next week---we have to bounce back, regroup, refocus and win a big football game.
Smoaky
Mentioned he wasn't surprised to throw 40+ passes because his team was trying to come from behind, but would like to have had the lead and run the ball a little more and better.
Colorado next week---we have to bounce back, regroup, refocus and win a big football game.
Smoaky
BU not accepting "almost anymore."
Baylor loses to Texas Tech, 45-38 at The Cotton Bowl in Dallas.
Heckuva game, Bears had their opportunities in the fourth-quarter and rallied back from a 17-point deficit to get the chance to tie the game.
I don't have all the stats in front of me, but Robert Griffin III, Terrance Ganaway, Josh Gordon and Kendall Wright all starred on offense.
Defensively, huge interception from Prince Kent that really gave Baylor a legitimate chance in the fourth-quarter.
Bears sloppy tackling really haunted them in the first half especially, but the two teams, Baylor and Tech both came up with some stops in the second half.
Baylor travels to Colorado in what I think is a must win as they work towards the 6-wins and a possible bowl appearance.
I know Art Briles and Company aren't into "close" but I don't think there's any doubt the Bears made more progress today in their growth process.
David Smoak
Heckuva game, Bears had their opportunities in the fourth-quarter and rallied back from a 17-point deficit to get the chance to tie the game.
I don't have all the stats in front of me, but Robert Griffin III, Terrance Ganaway, Josh Gordon and Kendall Wright all starred on offense.
Defensively, huge interception from Prince Kent that really gave Baylor a legitimate chance in the fourth-quarter.
Bears sloppy tackling really haunted them in the first half especially, but the two teams, Baylor and Tech both came up with some stops in the second half.
Baylor travels to Colorado in what I think is a must win as they work towards the 6-wins and a possible bowl appearance.
I know Art Briles and Company aren't into "close" but I don't think there's any doubt the Bears made more progress today in their growth process.
David Smoak
Enjoying a Saturday of peace and quiet...
I'm here at my place watching Baylor-Tech and their 7-on-7 shootout. Bears had such a nice start but appear to be a little overwhelmed right now, Tech up 45-28 but Bears are driving.
Bears defense really struggling today with missed tackles and against Tech's offense or any offense, that's death.
Kendall Wright having a nice game as is Robert Griffin III.
Art Briles has pulled out the stops with the fake punt to Antonio Johnson, and what a heads-up play by Terrance Ganaway on the onside kick meltdown by Tech when he picked it up and went in for the touchdown.
Still time left, but BU has to basically score on every possession and the defense must come up with a stop or two...
I'm feeling better, a little worn down from my first broadcast in three weeks, great game between Gatesville and China Spring. Cougars survived, 24-21 to open district with a victory.
We have a battle for first place next Friday between Robinson and China Spring at Cougar Stadium. We'll have the dual broadcast on 1660ESPN and Mix929FM. Paul Catalina and I will handle the broadcast for both programs.
Enjoy your weekend, and I hope to be back on "You Make The Call" on Monday afternoon.
Smoaky
Bears defense really struggling today with missed tackles and against Tech's offense or any offense, that's death.
Kendall Wright having a nice game as is Robert Griffin III.
Art Briles has pulled out the stops with the fake punt to Antonio Johnson, and what a heads-up play by Terrance Ganaway on the onside kick meltdown by Tech when he picked it up and went in for the touchdown.
Still time left, but BU has to basically score on every possession and the defense must come up with a stop or two...
I'm feeling better, a little worn down from my first broadcast in three weeks, great game between Gatesville and China Spring. Cougars survived, 24-21 to open district with a victory.
We have a battle for first place next Friday between Robinson and China Spring at Cougar Stadium. We'll have the dual broadcast on 1660ESPN and Mix929FM. Paul Catalina and I will handle the broadcast for both programs.
Enjoy your weekend, and I hope to be back on "You Make The Call" on Monday afternoon.
Smoaky
Friday, October 8, 2010
"Cleared...."
My wife Cindy and I went to my doctor here in Waco earlier today and after a few tests, he cleared me to get back to work "a little bit."
I'm here at Cougar Stadium in China Spring to do tonight's Gatesville @ China Spring broadcast, pregame at 7:15pm.
I'll take the weekend to play catch-up on some paperwork and relax a little bit.
I'll be in the office on Monday and on the show with Butch Henry and Paul Catalina on Monday afternoon.
I was planning on attending the Texas Tech-Baylor game at the Cotton Bowl, but the doctor wasn't thrilled with me being around everyone at the State Fair this weekend.
Paul and others from the station will cover the game.
I'll "try" and go 1/2 or 3/4's day and then the show.
We'll see...kickoff in about an hour.
David Smoak
I'm here at Cougar Stadium in China Spring to do tonight's Gatesville @ China Spring broadcast, pregame at 7:15pm.
I'll take the weekend to play catch-up on some paperwork and relax a little bit.
I'll be in the office on Monday and on the show with Butch Henry and Paul Catalina on Monday afternoon.
I was planning on attending the Texas Tech-Baylor game at the Cotton Bowl, but the doctor wasn't thrilled with me being around everyone at the State Fair this weekend.
Paul and others from the station will cover the game.
I'll "try" and go 1/2 or 3/4's day and then the show.
We'll see...kickoff in about an hour.
David Smoak
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Getting closer...
It's been 48-hours since I was released from the hospital and I am feeling stronger, but still have work to do.
My wife Cindy and our daughter Jennifer have taken me on a couple of errands to play a little catch-up with banking, etc...and believe it or not, just getting some fresh-air and sunshine was wonderful.
Best moment on Tuesday, Cindy and Jennifer took me out to China Spring H.S. so I could gather some information for Friday's radio broadcast for Gatesville-China Spring. As I was talking with Coach Bell outside of the field house, an assistant came driving by in a gator and I stopped and said, "hey, take me for a ride."
He did...about 2-minutes circling around part of the campus.
Something so simple, but something I cherished.
Cindy and I stopped by Dubl-R Burgers today, I wanted her to taste a double-double.
I haven't had a fat-burger in 6-weeks...I couldn't finish mine, but it was juicy and very good.
I have a couple of errands on Thursday and a doctor's appointment on Friday morning for a checkup.
My goals...
Stop by for a segment or two of You Make The Call on Thursday...especially to insure my high school picks are MY high school picks. I was dominating Butch, Paul, and Jason and they asked our promotions director, Casey, to make my picks last week. I'd never gone worse than 6-2. Casey doesn't know the difference between Gatesville and Kingsville. She went 4-4 and all of a sudden my large lead is a little shaky.
Needless to say, my friends pulled one on me last week...I'm ready for that segment this week.
I might just accidentally walk in during that segment on Thursday.
And, I continue working on the spotter boards for Friday's game...and other prep work.
I'll try and drop by China Spring on Thursday to interview Coach Bell for our Friday Coaches Show and the pregame segment.
Smoaky
My wife Cindy and our daughter Jennifer have taken me on a couple of errands to play a little catch-up with banking, etc...and believe it or not, just getting some fresh-air and sunshine was wonderful.
Best moment on Tuesday, Cindy and Jennifer took me out to China Spring H.S. so I could gather some information for Friday's radio broadcast for Gatesville-China Spring. As I was talking with Coach Bell outside of the field house, an assistant came driving by in a gator and I stopped and said, "hey, take me for a ride."
He did...about 2-minutes circling around part of the campus.
Something so simple, but something I cherished.
Cindy and I stopped by Dubl-R Burgers today, I wanted her to taste a double-double.
I haven't had a fat-burger in 6-weeks...I couldn't finish mine, but it was juicy and very good.
I have a couple of errands on Thursday and a doctor's appointment on Friday morning for a checkup.
My goals...
Stop by for a segment or two of You Make The Call on Thursday...especially to insure my high school picks are MY high school picks. I was dominating Butch, Paul, and Jason and they asked our promotions director, Casey, to make my picks last week. I'd never gone worse than 6-2. Casey doesn't know the difference between Gatesville and Kingsville. She went 4-4 and all of a sudden my large lead is a little shaky.
Needless to say, my friends pulled one on me last week...I'm ready for that segment this week.
I might just accidentally walk in during that segment on Thursday.
And, I continue working on the spotter boards for Friday's game...and other prep work.
I'll try and drop by China Spring on Thursday to interview Coach Bell for our Friday Coaches Show and the pregame segment.
Smoaky
Monday, October 4, 2010
Hopefully, on the comeback trail...
It's early Monday afternoon and I haven't posted on this blog in nearly two weeks.
If I did, I don't remember.
I think my wife Cindy may have updated everyone on my bout with double-pneumonia.
Two weeks ago today while co-hosting "You Make The Call" I started having some bad headaches. I've always been very fortunate not to suffer from migraines. All of my headaches were tension or stress related.
So, I took the typical pills and medicine to try and get through 2-3 days. Nothing worked.
I went to a local clinic on Thursday and was told I was suffering from a stress headache---and was given more pills and a steroid shot for my voice.
About once or twice a year, based on weather change I would receive a steroid shot to strengthen my voice...it always worked and I went about my business.
Thursday night, a couple of friends here in Waco called me to check on my health. When I didn't respond very well, they came to my place and drove me to the ER.
The same diagnosis was given...stress, pills, prescriptions....
I slept okay on Thursday night but woke up miserable on Friday, no energy and that's just not me. I'm a Type-A workaholic. I don't have time to be sick.
Well, health wins out this time.
For the first time in my 30-years in the business, I missed a game broadcast for health reasons. Paul Catalina refused to take me to Brownwood and dropped me back at my place and I waited for Cindy's arrival. I don't know what made me more miserable, missing the game broadcast or being sick.
My wife drove in from Tyler on Friday and immediately told me my temperature was 103,7. I tried to joke about it by saying that's a radio station number.
I was able to grind through Saturday watching college football and trying to stay busy.
I felt decent on Sunday when I woke up and watched the Cowboys at the Texans...but as that game was winding down, I felt terrible and walked back into my room and laid down.
Next thing I know, Cindy is waking me up and concerned about my breathing and we left for the ER again.
Needless to say, that was Sunday, September 26th. Now, it's Monday, October 4th.
I spend a few days in ICU being treated for double-pneumonia and whatever else. I've had more blood tests, shots and medical attention in the past 8-10 days than I've had in 51+-years.
When we arrived at the ER the second time, I think it was Dr. Lovett who got straight to the point about my health. It wasn't good and it wasn't going to get any better for awhile.
There are a lot of people to think, aides, nurses, doctors and others...friends, family, co-workers, but no one has been there more than Cindy.
I don't deserve her, she's too good for me after putting up with me through thick and thin.
She's missed days of work, been under as much stress as anyone watching me fight for my life for 2-3 days and also watching me take a step back or two during the recovery.
She's an amazing woman and I'm so fortunate to have her as the mother of our children and my best friend and wife.
I know that's a lot of gooey stuff, but just wanted to post an update.
I should be released this afternoon but I must take it very slowly for the rest of the week.
I'm hoping to get back on You Make The Call by Thursday or Friday and broadcast the Gatesville @ China Spring game on Friday.
Right now, I'm ready to get out of the hospital and continue my recovery.
Thanks to so many people who have sent me email or text or called. Believe me, I want to get back to work two weeks ago so I'm chomping at the bit.
Smoaky
If I did, I don't remember.
I think my wife Cindy may have updated everyone on my bout with double-pneumonia.
Two weeks ago today while co-hosting "You Make The Call" I started having some bad headaches. I've always been very fortunate not to suffer from migraines. All of my headaches were tension or stress related.
So, I took the typical pills and medicine to try and get through 2-3 days. Nothing worked.
I went to a local clinic on Thursday and was told I was suffering from a stress headache---and was given more pills and a steroid shot for my voice.
About once or twice a year, based on weather change I would receive a steroid shot to strengthen my voice...it always worked and I went about my business.
Thursday night, a couple of friends here in Waco called me to check on my health. When I didn't respond very well, they came to my place and drove me to the ER.
The same diagnosis was given...stress, pills, prescriptions....
I slept okay on Thursday night but woke up miserable on Friday, no energy and that's just not me. I'm a Type-A workaholic. I don't have time to be sick.
Well, health wins out this time.
For the first time in my 30-years in the business, I missed a game broadcast for health reasons. Paul Catalina refused to take me to Brownwood and dropped me back at my place and I waited for Cindy's arrival. I don't know what made me more miserable, missing the game broadcast or being sick.
My wife drove in from Tyler on Friday and immediately told me my temperature was 103,7. I tried to joke about it by saying that's a radio station number.
I was able to grind through Saturday watching college football and trying to stay busy.
I felt decent on Sunday when I woke up and watched the Cowboys at the Texans...but as that game was winding down, I felt terrible and walked back into my room and laid down.
Next thing I know, Cindy is waking me up and concerned about my breathing and we left for the ER again.
Needless to say, that was Sunday, September 26th. Now, it's Monday, October 4th.
I spend a few days in ICU being treated for double-pneumonia and whatever else. I've had more blood tests, shots and medical attention in the past 8-10 days than I've had in 51+-years.
When we arrived at the ER the second time, I think it was Dr. Lovett who got straight to the point about my health. It wasn't good and it wasn't going to get any better for awhile.
There are a lot of people to think, aides, nurses, doctors and others...friends, family, co-workers, but no one has been there more than Cindy.
I don't deserve her, she's too good for me after putting up with me through thick and thin.
She's missed days of work, been under as much stress as anyone watching me fight for my life for 2-3 days and also watching me take a step back or two during the recovery.
She's an amazing woman and I'm so fortunate to have her as the mother of our children and my best friend and wife.
I know that's a lot of gooey stuff, but just wanted to post an update.
I should be released this afternoon but I must take it very slowly for the rest of the week.
I'm hoping to get back on You Make The Call by Thursday or Friday and broadcast the Gatesville @ China Spring game on Friday.
Right now, I'm ready to get out of the hospital and continue my recovery.
Thanks to so many people who have sent me email or text or called. Believe me, I want to get back to work two weeks ago so I'm chomping at the bit.
Smoaky
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Smoaky's Health Update
Hi this is Cindy, Smoaky's wife.
It's been a long week but David has made good progress. We got out of ICU on Wednesday and was still on the IV antibiotics and oxygen. Progress has been steady but slow because the infection was so bad. He was taken off of the IV antibiotics on Saturday and put on oral antibiotics. A first step toward going home. Those are working and the white count continues to go down. They did another chest x-ray and the lungs are getting clearer but still infection and need to loosen it up. The doctor took him off of the oxygen today to see how he would handle it.
He does fine as long as he is resting but he walked down the hall with one of the nurses and the stats dropped so we are not ready to be off of the oxygen yet. That is still the major concern and something that will take time and he will have to gradually ween off of it with continued breathing exercises and becoming more ambulatory.
I can't express to you enough how appreciative my family and I are for your well wishes and prayers.
Please continue to keep us in your prayers they are definitely working and he is getting better.
He's wanting to get on the laptop and his phone so I know we are headed in the right direction!!
I may have to turn the TV off as the Redskin game is making it harder for him to breathe :)! I will keep you all posted.
Thanks to everyone who has helped out on the website.
Love you, Cindy and family
It's been a long week but David has made good progress. We got out of ICU on Wednesday and was still on the IV antibiotics and oxygen. Progress has been steady but slow because the infection was so bad. He was taken off of the IV antibiotics on Saturday and put on oral antibiotics. A first step toward going home. Those are working and the white count continues to go down. They did another chest x-ray and the lungs are getting clearer but still infection and need to loosen it up. The doctor took him off of the oxygen today to see how he would handle it.
He does fine as long as he is resting but he walked down the hall with one of the nurses and the stats dropped so we are not ready to be off of the oxygen yet. That is still the major concern and something that will take time and he will have to gradually ween off of it with continued breathing exercises and becoming more ambulatory.
I can't express to you enough how appreciative my family and I are for your well wishes and prayers.
Please continue to keep us in your prayers they are definitely working and he is getting better.
He's wanting to get on the laptop and his phone so I know we are headed in the right direction!!
I may have to turn the TV off as the Redskin game is making it harder for him to breathe :)! I will keep you all posted.
Thanks to everyone who has helped out on the website.
Love you, Cindy and family
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Trying to fight through whatever this is....
Started feeling sore and sluggish on Monday afternoon.
Not sure what I caught, but I have some kind of bug.
I was dead to rights during our show on Monday, took some medicine, seemed to kick it by early Tuesday morning but woke up Tuesday morning and still sore and just no energy.
I had to get to my weekly meeting at China Spring to discuss our next broadcast with Coach Bell and Company and one of the assistants gave me some medicine that seemed to do the trick.
But, about two hours later, the pain returned.
I've never had migraine headaches, but I've had them for the past two days.
Somehow survived today's show and Butch even gave me a little "remedy" to try, but I came back to my place and worked on our Brownwood broadcast.
Fell asleep a couple of hours ago, but now I'm wired.
Frustrating, I'm tired, grumpy, but now I can't sleep.
I'm about to sqig some NyQuil, that always helps.
I hope it works, because I have a pretty quiet day tomorrow---might try and sleep in.
I am the biggest baby when it comes to being sick, but aren't most men?
My wife called late tonight but I was out cold, now I'm up and working on this silly blog.
Oh well, hopefully feel better in the morning.
Smoaky
Not sure what I caught, but I have some kind of bug.
I was dead to rights during our show on Monday, took some medicine, seemed to kick it by early Tuesday morning but woke up Tuesday morning and still sore and just no energy.
I had to get to my weekly meeting at China Spring to discuss our next broadcast with Coach Bell and Company and one of the assistants gave me some medicine that seemed to do the trick.
But, about two hours later, the pain returned.
I've never had migraine headaches, but I've had them for the past two days.
Somehow survived today's show and Butch even gave me a little "remedy" to try, but I came back to my place and worked on our Brownwood broadcast.
Fell asleep a couple of hours ago, but now I'm wired.
Frustrating, I'm tired, grumpy, but now I can't sleep.
I'm about to sqig some NyQuil, that always helps.
I hope it works, because I have a pretty quiet day tomorrow---might try and sleep in.
I am the biggest baby when it comes to being sick, but aren't most men?
My wife called late tonight but I was out cold, now I'm up and working on this silly blog.
Oh well, hopefully feel better in the morning.
Smoaky
Monday, September 20, 2010
Cowboys, BU, split right down the middle...
We heard from a couple of Cowboys analysts today, Brad Sham, "Voice of the Cowboys," and Jennifer Floyd-Engel of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Both had their take on this week at Valley Ranch following 27-20 Bears.
I also recorded a 4:00+ segment with Coach Briles on their disappointing performance at TCU in Fort Worth.
There were two specific questions I wanted to ask to some of his answers over the weekend.
Coach Briles mentioned his team playing hard, but being basically overwhelmed from the beginning. Believe me, no one is more upset about it than he is...but TCU just came out and sent missiles at TCU's defense. Coach Briles also said he didn't understand why TCU came out with "something to prove."
I didn't expect anything less, but honestly, I also thought BU would come out breathing fire.
Game, set, match.
TCU is much better right now, more talent, established program and if you play them you better bring a lot of emotion because the 'Frogs always play with a chip on their shoulder.
Thanks to all of the calls, from Austin to south Dallas and the email messages too---we had a couple on the line at the end and wish we could have gotten to them too.
We'll be back at it tomorrow from 3pm-6pm, Butch is back, he was out today with a funeral in Stephenville. Butch and I spoke at length on Sunday afternoon about the Baylor game and he'll have plenty in the holster on Tuesday.
I thought what was soreness from walking more and more at night, has turned out to be some kind of bug, so it's NyQuil for me in about 2-3 hours. I have too much to do to be sick, but I might lose that battle tonight.
Just heard from Brownwood AD/Football Coach Bob Shipley, he's sending me my game broadcast information on his program tomorrow, I'll work on that tomorrow night.
We're not at Don Carlos for the next 2-3 weeks, trying to find a better setup within their restaurant, back at their place sometime in October.
Have a great week...
Smoaky
Both had their take on this week at Valley Ranch following 27-20 Bears.
I also recorded a 4:00+ segment with Coach Briles on their disappointing performance at TCU in Fort Worth.
There were two specific questions I wanted to ask to some of his answers over the weekend.
Coach Briles mentioned his team playing hard, but being basically overwhelmed from the beginning. Believe me, no one is more upset about it than he is...but TCU just came out and sent missiles at TCU's defense. Coach Briles also said he didn't understand why TCU came out with "something to prove."
I didn't expect anything less, but honestly, I also thought BU would come out breathing fire.
Game, set, match.
TCU is much better right now, more talent, established program and if you play them you better bring a lot of emotion because the 'Frogs always play with a chip on their shoulder.
Thanks to all of the calls, from Austin to south Dallas and the email messages too---we had a couple on the line at the end and wish we could have gotten to them too.
We'll be back at it tomorrow from 3pm-6pm, Butch is back, he was out today with a funeral in Stephenville. Butch and I spoke at length on Sunday afternoon about the Baylor game and he'll have plenty in the holster on Tuesday.
I thought what was soreness from walking more and more at night, has turned out to be some kind of bug, so it's NyQuil for me in about 2-3 hours. I have too much to do to be sick, but I might lose that battle tonight.
Just heard from Brownwood AD/Football Coach Bob Shipley, he's sending me my game broadcast information on his program tomorrow, I'll work on that tomorrow night.
We're not at Don Carlos for the next 2-3 weeks, trying to find a better setup within their restaurant, back at their place sometime in October.
Have a great week...
Smoaky
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Wrapping a week of BU-TCU, Cowboys-Bears, and Family
I spent the weekend covering high school, college and pro football, but the weekend was wonderful because I spent time with our daughter Jennifer and my wife Cindy in Plano...oh yea, and Jennifer's dog, Oreo...an incredibly smart and lovable Border Collie.
The only thing missing was Craig, our son, who stayed back in Tyler to get his final weekend of R&R with the team he covers, Whitehouse, having a bye week. I'm hoping he'll come in for a BU game, perhaps Kansas to get a feel for a conference game and tailgate. If not, I'll run back to Tyler for a day or two this weekend or next.
Jennifer is a Tech grad and she wasn't too thrilled with the loss to Texas on Saturday night. First thing she said following the loss, "Great, now all my UT friends will be hammering me on Facebook this week." Oh well...
Our broadcast on Friday between China Spring and McGregor went well, but we're still not able to get the best audio for the broadcast. China Spring's stadium, Cougar Stadium doesn't have any access to a phone line and it's not the best setup for us. I sure hope that changes sometime soon. The campus is very nice, so is the stadium, but the distance between their buildings and the stadium don't allow the phone company to get a line from A-Z. We're using a couple of technical options, but still not what I want.
China Spring will get their best test of the season this Friday at #1 Brownwood.
I've already sent a request for all the broadcast information we need to their head coach Bob Shipley.
I drove to Fort Worth to watch Baylor @ TCU at Amon Carter Stadium on Saturday.
Major disappointment.
You could tell from the opening snap it was going to be a long afternoon for the Bears defense, TCU QB Andy Dalton was precise and riddled the BU secondary. It was almost as if Dalton knew Baylor's CB's would be playing off their receivers and it was easy pass and catch for most of the night. TCU also has a nice running game with Wesley and Tucker and they just did basically what they wanted on offense.
TCU is well-known for their aggressive defense, and Saturday didn't change anything.
BU QB Robert Griffin III missed some opportunities but he was running for his life from the first snap.
Tough loss for the Bears who like their fan base were expecting much more---so this could be Art Briles' toughest coaching week of the season. Coming off the disappointing showing and a road trip to a dangerous Rice team in Houston.
Speaking of the Bears, Lovie Smith's Bears haven't been very good for the past three seasons---following their trip to the Super Bowl.
But, Lovie, who I'm proud to say is a great friend of mine, changed his coaching staff, brought in offensive genius Mike Martz, and another former head coach, Mike Tice, and another one in Rod Marinelli.
Think about that---Smith, Martz, Tice and Marinelli all on the same staff.
I'm not sure if the Bears can sustain their 2-0 start and especially their new-found offense, but they've made me a believer. Turnover-prone QB Jay Cutler looks like Kurt Warner through two weeks.
Bears defense, which has been crushed with injuries in recent years is healthy with Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, and Charles Tillman running around making plays left and right.
Lovie Smith was a guest on our show last Thursday...he's as complete a true gentleman that you can find...along with my father.
Cowboys are 0-2 and 0-2 in the NFL usually means no playoff team. It's happened before, but I believe there was a stat of 18-teams starting 0-2 in the past twenty years and making the post-season.
Cowboys last started 0-2 in 2001, they finished 5-11. If this Cowboys team finishes 5-11 or worse than 9-7 or 10-6, there will be a lot of heads rolling by Christmas.
And, yes---I do remember the 1993 Cowboys starting 0-2 during an Emmitt Smith holdout. He came back, Cowboys got on a roll and won Super Bowl XXVIII. But, as much as some people keep talking about the talent of this years team, it doesn't compare to '93, but not many do.
As I've said on the Monday following a Cowboys loss, "we don't deserve to get a paycheck today," it will be like taking candy from a baby...Cowboys loss, 0-2 start, and BU coming off their disastrous loss in Fort Worth.
Butch Henry will be out on Monday at a funeral, Paul Catalina and I will co-host the show.
My advice to him, "let 'em vent..." and we will starting at 3:00pm on Monday.
Let's have a great week.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
The only thing missing was Craig, our son, who stayed back in Tyler to get his final weekend of R&R with the team he covers, Whitehouse, having a bye week. I'm hoping he'll come in for a BU game, perhaps Kansas to get a feel for a conference game and tailgate. If not, I'll run back to Tyler for a day or two this weekend or next.
Jennifer is a Tech grad and she wasn't too thrilled with the loss to Texas on Saturday night. First thing she said following the loss, "Great, now all my UT friends will be hammering me on Facebook this week." Oh well...
Our broadcast on Friday between China Spring and McGregor went well, but we're still not able to get the best audio for the broadcast. China Spring's stadium, Cougar Stadium doesn't have any access to a phone line and it's not the best setup for us. I sure hope that changes sometime soon. The campus is very nice, so is the stadium, but the distance between their buildings and the stadium don't allow the phone company to get a line from A-Z. We're using a couple of technical options, but still not what I want.
China Spring will get their best test of the season this Friday at #1 Brownwood.
I've already sent a request for all the broadcast information we need to their head coach Bob Shipley.
I drove to Fort Worth to watch Baylor @ TCU at Amon Carter Stadium on Saturday.
Major disappointment.
You could tell from the opening snap it was going to be a long afternoon for the Bears defense, TCU QB Andy Dalton was precise and riddled the BU secondary. It was almost as if Dalton knew Baylor's CB's would be playing off their receivers and it was easy pass and catch for most of the night. TCU also has a nice running game with Wesley and Tucker and they just did basically what they wanted on offense.
TCU is well-known for their aggressive defense, and Saturday didn't change anything.
BU QB Robert Griffin III missed some opportunities but he was running for his life from the first snap.
Tough loss for the Bears who like their fan base were expecting much more---so this could be Art Briles' toughest coaching week of the season. Coming off the disappointing showing and a road trip to a dangerous Rice team in Houston.
Speaking of the Bears, Lovie Smith's Bears haven't been very good for the past three seasons---following their trip to the Super Bowl.
But, Lovie, who I'm proud to say is a great friend of mine, changed his coaching staff, brought in offensive genius Mike Martz, and another former head coach, Mike Tice, and another one in Rod Marinelli.
Think about that---Smith, Martz, Tice and Marinelli all on the same staff.
I'm not sure if the Bears can sustain their 2-0 start and especially their new-found offense, but they've made me a believer. Turnover-prone QB Jay Cutler looks like Kurt Warner through two weeks.
Bears defense, which has been crushed with injuries in recent years is healthy with Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, and Charles Tillman running around making plays left and right.
Lovie Smith was a guest on our show last Thursday...he's as complete a true gentleman that you can find...along with my father.
Cowboys are 0-2 and 0-2 in the NFL usually means no playoff team. It's happened before, but I believe there was a stat of 18-teams starting 0-2 in the past twenty years and making the post-season.
Cowboys last started 0-2 in 2001, they finished 5-11. If this Cowboys team finishes 5-11 or worse than 9-7 or 10-6, there will be a lot of heads rolling by Christmas.
And, yes---I do remember the 1993 Cowboys starting 0-2 during an Emmitt Smith holdout. He came back, Cowboys got on a roll and won Super Bowl XXVIII. But, as much as some people keep talking about the talent of this years team, it doesn't compare to '93, but not many do.
As I've said on the Monday following a Cowboys loss, "we don't deserve to get a paycheck today," it will be like taking candy from a baby...Cowboys loss, 0-2 start, and BU coming off their disastrous loss in Fort Worth.
Butch Henry will be out on Monday at a funeral, Paul Catalina and I will co-host the show.
My advice to him, "let 'em vent..." and we will starting at 3:00pm on Monday.
Let's have a great week.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
Friday, September 17, 2010
Tragedy brings everything back to reality...
As we wrapped-up our China Spring 26-0 shutout win against McGregor, word started to spread throughout the state on the death of West Orange-Stark quarterback Reggie Garrett.
Garrett, a star quarterback just threw his second touchdown pass of the night against Jasper and then collapsed and later died at a local hospital.
As you can imagine, the balloon of Texas high school football just popped.
Unimaginable, and why?
There's never a good reason, but the big man upstairs knows why.
Garrett was a tremendous player and somehow, someway, West Orange-Stark continued on and beat rival Jasper, 27-6. Jasper had to be shaken as well, as was anyone else at the stadium.
The collapse itself had to be frightening, the news of his death just made everything tonight irrelevant around high school football in Texas.
It brings all of us back to reality, scores, highlights, stars, touchdowns and tackles, and then you wonder why?
I'd like to wish the entire West Orange-Stark family our prayers and especially to the Garrett family.
He was beloved in the southeast Texas community and he will be missed.
David Smoak
Garrett, a star quarterback just threw his second touchdown pass of the night against Jasper and then collapsed and later died at a local hospital.
As you can imagine, the balloon of Texas high school football just popped.
Unimaginable, and why?
There's never a good reason, but the big man upstairs knows why.
Garrett was a tremendous player and somehow, someway, West Orange-Stark continued on and beat rival Jasper, 27-6. Jasper had to be shaken as well, as was anyone else at the stadium.
The collapse itself had to be frightening, the news of his death just made everything tonight irrelevant around high school football in Texas.
It brings all of us back to reality, scores, highlights, stars, touchdowns and tackles, and then you wonder why?
I'd like to wish the entire West Orange-Stark family our prayers and especially to the Garrett family.
He was beloved in the southeast Texas community and he will be missed.
David Smoak
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Thank you Central Texas...
I'd like to thank everyone who has contacted me by email or in person since I arrived on June 22nd.
I've tried to do everything possible to listen and read the suggestions and opinions.
I'd been to Waco and the Central Texas area many times, but never more than a day or two for a football game or basketball tournament. I cannot believe how much I didn't know about Waco/Temple/Killeen/Fort Hood and Belton. I've mentioned on several occasions how many great local restaurants they have here---and how giving the people are---and I see something every day that makes me realize how special this area really is...and the hospitality has been overwhelming.
I know some of my programming decisions or show formatting ideas have not always been met with approval...but other than one or two who get really frustrated and angry, others have approached our changes with an "open-mind."
Thank you again to those who've welcomed me with open arms, and even to those who haven't.
Earlier this week, I received some negative feedback from an anonymous blogger and anyone who says criticism doesn't bother them is lying. I didn't like a couple of comments about a member of our staff and responded by protecting one of my own (Paul Catalina). Well, I over-reacted, and after thinking it through, pulled all of my comments and his/hers. I asked for their real name and an email address so I could contact them, I tried to send an email but it was kicked-back. Oh well, maybe I'll get a real email address to communicate with him/her sometime soon. I won't apologize for protecting Paul...I've got his back.
I'd like to stop for a few minutes and mention a lot of people behind our success throughout our company.
We have such a great group of people at our radio stations, Dustin Drew, Beth Richards and Jessica Goodlett at Mix92.9FM. Dustin has been supportive in every way, and remains patient every time I ask him to show me "again" how to use the printer, issues with the Internet and even a few technical tips. I honestly don't think there's anything within the walls of the station that Dustin can't fix or solve, and although this is a volatile profession, he just ticks along. He's also a darn good cook and is always working up something in our kitchen at the station.
Beth has gone overboard on helping us with 1660espn.com and does a lot of the work outside of her normal hours. Of course, in our business, what is "normal?" It doesn't matter when I text or email her something about our website, she's on it. Like Dustin, she has to be up very early for their morning drive shift--but somehow, Beth gets it done, updating the website's homepage, our podcast link and more than you can imagine.
Jessica hosts Mix's afternoon/evening drive and we've added her to the mix on 1660ESPN, she's doing some morning Sportscenter updates and she's a nice addition to what we're doing. I'll never forget the look on her face when I handed her season credentials to Baylor athletics, it was something she wanted, but wasn't expecting. She deserves them and as the season progresses, she'll add quite a bit to our show.
I've mentioned our sales staff on multiple occasions including an entry earlier today but Bill, Becky, Terry, Rich, Linda and Kisha are busting their tails---and I mean every-single-day...but I'd like to focus on the others this time around.
Butch Henry, when I first spoke with John McClain, Steve Fallon and others about the opportunity at 1660ESPN Radio, they immediately mentioned Butch Henry. He's been covering and coaching sports and entertaining people in Central Texas for decades. I've heard all about his Little League coaching success, including the team back in the 70's that came so close to Williamsport, Pa...but fell a game short. What a thrill that must have been for "Coach Henry" and the team. He knows everyone, knows everything about Central Texas, and knows the family tree of basically every local player, coach, program, athlete and fan. I've tried to suck out everything from his library of knowledge, while also soaking in his wisdom. We have changed some things up within the show, and although Butch and I have talked about some of them, I appreciate his support throughout these first 2 1/2 months. Butch and I had a really good talk on Wednesday afternoon and I tried to soak in every minute.
Paul Catalina, a huge Red Sox and FSU fan has helped me in more ways than I can imagine, he's involved in our programming, a lot of technical work especially on appearances and game broadcasts. The first week I was here, he did some stand up comedy at a local club--he was funny and I know he's looking for his next opportunity. There is no way I could have helped institute some of our goals without Paul taking on more and more responsibilities. He's been a God-send.
Then there's Zach Burke, a 22-year old who is ready to spread his wings. He's brilliant with his production of commercials, billboards and open and close productions. Like Paul, he's a huge sports fan and I think can recite every NFL team's starting lineup and even the backups. I used to be able to do that, but I've lost too many brain cells to keep up. Zach is also on the air as a producer for our 2pm-3pm show with host John Morris, "Voice of the Bears." He's co-hosting our Friday night scoreboard show and also voices some Sportscenter updates. Zach's confidence continues to rise every day---it's fun to see him develop a swagger. Now, if he'll just learn to close his office/production room door so he can get more work done. Everyone loves to hang around Zach's door asking for this and that and then this and that again.
Jason Barringer is a young man who is all-Texas A&M...and he's willing and able to learn everything-radio. I heard some of his work with A&M baseball as a student. I can see him one day being a play-by-play broadcaster for a minor or major league team. I've tried to spend some additional time with Jason, he's fearless and one night when I asked Zach and Jason not to close out our scoreboard blog until we dug for every score (there are about 100+ scores), I felt terrible when I received an email from him at 3:00am on a Saturday telling me he'd scoured everything but couldn't find a few scores.
I sent him an email and asked him why he was up so late. I think his response must have been, "You're apparently doing the same thing, why are you up this late?"
Tony Loomer is our Utility Infielder for everything-M&M Broadcasting. He answers the phone, fixed the copy machine, knows everyone's extension, does all the handy work around the office and does a nice job producing a lot of our shows. Tony is old school, and this week when I asked him for some upbeat music for some bumps...he responded, "Oh, don't worry I've got a lot of music to choose from..." I think he's dug deep into the great late-60's and 70's for some good stuff.
Edward Graham (along with Dustin Drew) were the first one's to take me to dinner when I arrived in Waco. "Graham-Man" is full of energy and he's brought a ton of it to our stations and building. He's always on the go, thinking about promotions and he's done a tremendous job with 104.9The Beat. Today, before our appearance at Cricket's, Graham-Man, voice-tracked some of his afternoon shift and walked over to Cricket's to help us setup the remote, table, banners, speakers and everything else. It didn't go unnoticed, he's contagious and has given me an energy boost with his personality.
We just hired two Interns, Regan and Jordan, both are students at Baylor University and they also bring a tremendous amount of energy to all three stations. They are fearless and wanting to learn everything-radio. Just last week at Cricket's, both grabbed our wireless microphone and went up to some of the patrons and customers and asked questions about Baylor football...they are our "Fountain of Youth." Regan is from Austin Westlake, Jordan from Highland Park...and they are going to be future leaders of our great country.
And, there's Casey, she started as our promotions director two weeks ago. She'd never been in radio and she's learning something new everyday. She's also fearless, gathering goodies, and freebies for our appearances on Mix, The Beat and 1660ESPN.
Like Regan and Jordan, Casey comes ready to work, and leaves tired because she's always moving around helping promote our stations.
And, finally...there's our owner, Gary Moss. I know, you're rolling your eyes...here's the suck-up time. Nope, not with Gary...he doesn't want that or expect it. He is involved in so many things technical I can't name them all. He's always working on improving our towers, signals and frequencies. He's told me of some near future goals and they are exciting and will take what we do to another level and then some. He's tough, demands a lot, but nothing that's not unfair or unexpected.
We have a chance to do some great things and Gary is always thinking of something else that will make us sound better and reach more people.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
I've tried to do everything possible to listen and read the suggestions and opinions.
I'd been to Waco and the Central Texas area many times, but never more than a day or two for a football game or basketball tournament. I cannot believe how much I didn't know about Waco/Temple/Killeen/Fort Hood and Belton. I've mentioned on several occasions how many great local restaurants they have here---and how giving the people are---and I see something every day that makes me realize how special this area really is...and the hospitality has been overwhelming.
I know some of my programming decisions or show formatting ideas have not always been met with approval...but other than one or two who get really frustrated and angry, others have approached our changes with an "open-mind."
Thank you again to those who've welcomed me with open arms, and even to those who haven't.
Earlier this week, I received some negative feedback from an anonymous blogger and anyone who says criticism doesn't bother them is lying. I didn't like a couple of comments about a member of our staff and responded by protecting one of my own (Paul Catalina). Well, I over-reacted, and after thinking it through, pulled all of my comments and his/hers. I asked for their real name and an email address so I could contact them, I tried to send an email but it was kicked-back. Oh well, maybe I'll get a real email address to communicate with him/her sometime soon. I won't apologize for protecting Paul...I've got his back.
I'd like to stop for a few minutes and mention a lot of people behind our success throughout our company.
We have such a great group of people at our radio stations, Dustin Drew, Beth Richards and Jessica Goodlett at Mix92.9FM. Dustin has been supportive in every way, and remains patient every time I ask him to show me "again" how to use the printer, issues with the Internet and even a few technical tips. I honestly don't think there's anything within the walls of the station that Dustin can't fix or solve, and although this is a volatile profession, he just ticks along. He's also a darn good cook and is always working up something in our kitchen at the station.
Beth has gone overboard on helping us with 1660espn.com and does a lot of the work outside of her normal hours. Of course, in our business, what is "normal?" It doesn't matter when I text or email her something about our website, she's on it. Like Dustin, she has to be up very early for their morning drive shift--but somehow, Beth gets it done, updating the website's homepage, our podcast link and more than you can imagine.
Jessica hosts Mix's afternoon/evening drive and we've added her to the mix on 1660ESPN, she's doing some morning Sportscenter updates and she's a nice addition to what we're doing. I'll never forget the look on her face when I handed her season credentials to Baylor athletics, it was something she wanted, but wasn't expecting. She deserves them and as the season progresses, she'll add quite a bit to our show.
I've mentioned our sales staff on multiple occasions including an entry earlier today but Bill, Becky, Terry, Rich, Linda and Kisha are busting their tails---and I mean every-single-day...but I'd like to focus on the others this time around.
Butch Henry, when I first spoke with John McClain, Steve Fallon and others about the opportunity at 1660ESPN Radio, they immediately mentioned Butch Henry. He's been covering and coaching sports and entertaining people in Central Texas for decades. I've heard all about his Little League coaching success, including the team back in the 70's that came so close to Williamsport, Pa...but fell a game short. What a thrill that must have been for "Coach Henry" and the team. He knows everyone, knows everything about Central Texas, and knows the family tree of basically every local player, coach, program, athlete and fan. I've tried to suck out everything from his library of knowledge, while also soaking in his wisdom. We have changed some things up within the show, and although Butch and I have talked about some of them, I appreciate his support throughout these first 2 1/2 months. Butch and I had a really good talk on Wednesday afternoon and I tried to soak in every minute.
Paul Catalina, a huge Red Sox and FSU fan has helped me in more ways than I can imagine, he's involved in our programming, a lot of technical work especially on appearances and game broadcasts. The first week I was here, he did some stand up comedy at a local club--he was funny and I know he's looking for his next opportunity. There is no way I could have helped institute some of our goals without Paul taking on more and more responsibilities. He's been a God-send.
Then there's Zach Burke, a 22-year old who is ready to spread his wings. He's brilliant with his production of commercials, billboards and open and close productions. Like Paul, he's a huge sports fan and I think can recite every NFL team's starting lineup and even the backups. I used to be able to do that, but I've lost too many brain cells to keep up. Zach is also on the air as a producer for our 2pm-3pm show with host John Morris, "Voice of the Bears." He's co-hosting our Friday night scoreboard show and also voices some Sportscenter updates. Zach's confidence continues to rise every day---it's fun to see him develop a swagger. Now, if he'll just learn to close his office/production room door so he can get more work done. Everyone loves to hang around Zach's door asking for this and that and then this and that again.
Jason Barringer is a young man who is all-Texas A&M...and he's willing and able to learn everything-radio. I heard some of his work with A&M baseball as a student. I can see him one day being a play-by-play broadcaster for a minor or major league team. I've tried to spend some additional time with Jason, he's fearless and one night when I asked Zach and Jason not to close out our scoreboard blog until we dug for every score (there are about 100+ scores), I felt terrible when I received an email from him at 3:00am on a Saturday telling me he'd scoured everything but couldn't find a few scores.
I sent him an email and asked him why he was up so late. I think his response must have been, "You're apparently doing the same thing, why are you up this late?"
Tony Loomer is our Utility Infielder for everything-M&M Broadcasting. He answers the phone, fixed the copy machine, knows everyone's extension, does all the handy work around the office and does a nice job producing a lot of our shows. Tony is old school, and this week when I asked him for some upbeat music for some bumps...he responded, "Oh, don't worry I've got a lot of music to choose from..." I think he's dug deep into the great late-60's and 70's for some good stuff.
Edward Graham (along with Dustin Drew) were the first one's to take me to dinner when I arrived in Waco. "Graham-Man" is full of energy and he's brought a ton of it to our stations and building. He's always on the go, thinking about promotions and he's done a tremendous job with 104.9The Beat. Today, before our appearance at Cricket's, Graham-Man, voice-tracked some of his afternoon shift and walked over to Cricket's to help us setup the remote, table, banners, speakers and everything else. It didn't go unnoticed, he's contagious and has given me an energy boost with his personality.
We just hired two Interns, Regan and Jordan, both are students at Baylor University and they also bring a tremendous amount of energy to all three stations. They are fearless and wanting to learn everything-radio. Just last week at Cricket's, both grabbed our wireless microphone and went up to some of the patrons and customers and asked questions about Baylor football...they are our "Fountain of Youth." Regan is from Austin Westlake, Jordan from Highland Park...and they are going to be future leaders of our great country.
And, there's Casey, she started as our promotions director two weeks ago. She'd never been in radio and she's learning something new everyday. She's also fearless, gathering goodies, and freebies for our appearances on Mix, The Beat and 1660ESPN.
Like Regan and Jordan, Casey comes ready to work, and leaves tired because she's always moving around helping promote our stations.
And, finally...there's our owner, Gary Moss. I know, you're rolling your eyes...here's the suck-up time. Nope, not with Gary...he doesn't want that or expect it. He is involved in so many things technical I can't name them all. He's always working on improving our towers, signals and frequencies. He's told me of some near future goals and they are exciting and will take what we do to another level and then some. He's tough, demands a lot, but nothing that's not unfair or unexpected.
We have a chance to do some great things and Gary is always thinking of something else that will make us sound better and reach more people.
David Smoak
smoaky@1660espn.com
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