VOL. 2 - ISSUE 20
3 Photo Courtesy: Louise Marcus-Hamilton
TV Star Warned Over Waving Knife At Intruders
BLITZ News Shorts 3 Hollywood Profile / Movie Reviews 4 Music: Best Albums of 2009 5 Mavs and Stars News 6 UNT / SMU / TCU News 7 Restaurant Review: GameWorks 8 COVER STORY: 2010 Gaming Guide Console Wars 9 Games to Look for This Year! 10 BLITZ BABE: Amanda 12 Blitz Toys 13 Cowboys vs. Vikings Preview 14 More NFL Playoff Previews 15 The Fan Top 10 with Sybil 16 Crossword / Jokes / Horrorscopes 17 Last Call: In Defense of the P.A.N. 18 PUBLISHER Kelly G. Reed EDITOR Jennifer Wayne CREATIVE DIRECTOR / WEBSITE / GRAPHIC DESIGN Damien William Mayfield COVER: Cover Design: Damien William Mayfield CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Gregg Case, Manny Flores, Tracy Hicks, Louise Marcus-Hamilton, James D. Smith PHOTOGRAPHERS Ronnie Baker, Darryl Briggs, Steven Hendrix, Matt Pearce, Jason Ryan CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joe Avezzano, Tony Barone, Kris Boudreau, Geoff Case, Vivian Fullerlove, Robin George, Rich Hancock, Andrew J. Hewett, Frank LaCosta, Jayson Larson, Jason Miller, Pat Moran, Richard S. Pollak, Craig Smith, Eddie Stephens, Joe Stumpo, Sybil Summers, Jennifer Wayne and Jesse Whitman ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Kelly G. Reed SALES REPRESENTATIVES Edward Andrion, Johnny Horton and Patrick Marshall CONTACT US MAIN NUMBER 214-529-7370 FAX NUMBER 972-960-8618 kreed@blitzweekly.com BLITZ Weekly P.O. Box 295293, Lewisville, TX 75029
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QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Ah, New York! It’s my kind of town. If I can kill ‘em here...I can kill ‘em anywhere!” -- Duke Nukem: Manhattan Project
Celebrity mum Myleene Klass is “aghast” after being warned by police for waving a knife at teenagers who entered her garden. The TV star and Marks & Spencer model was in her kitchen, with her daughter upstairs, when she spotted people peering into her window just after midnight on Friday. She grabbed a knife and banged the windows before they ran away. Hertfordshire Police officers warned Klass she should not have used a knife to scare off the teens because carrying an “offensive weapon” even in her own home - was illegal. Klass told Sky News in a statement: “My family are totally fine and I thank the police for being so re-
assuring and comforting.” “However, I was left shocked and surprised to be told that a private individual in the privacy of their own home runs the risk of committing a criminal offence if, out of fear for their own safety and their loved ones, they grab something with which they could defend themselves if an intruder enters their home.” “I totally respect British law - but surely everyone has the right to self-defence in their own home if they are in danger,” Klass said. Her spokesman Jonathan Shalit said the former
Hearsay singer was “utterly terrified” and was stepping up security at the property near Potters Bar. He told the Sunday Telegraph: “Myleene was aghast when she was told that the law did not allow her to defend herself at home. All she did was scream loudly and wave the knife to try and frighten them off.” Klass’ fiance Graham Quinn was away on business at the time of the scare. It came amid calls for greater rights for people to defend themselves against intruders on their property.
Swiss Court Fines Speeding Millionaire $290,000
A Swiss court has slapped a wealthy speeder with a chalet-sized fine--a full $290,000. Judges at the cantonal court in St. Gallen, in eastern Switzerland, based the record-breaking fine on the speeder’s estimated wealth of over $20 million. A statement on the court’s website says the driver - a repeat offender - drove up to 35 miles an hour (57 kilometers an hour) faster than the 50-mile-an-hour (80-kilometer-an-hour) limit. Court clerk Heidi Baumann-Becker said Thursday the unidentified driver can appeal the decision, handed down in November, to the Swiss supreme court. The Blick daily newspaper in Zurich reported the fine was more than twice the previous Swiss record of about $107,000.
Callers to Free Tow Number Directed to Porn Line
Oops, wrong number. Some New Year’s Eve revelers in Carlsbad who had a little too much to drink got a surprise when they called a toll-free number for a free tow home.
Instead of assistance, they got instructions to call a second tollfree number that offered pornographic conversation. AAA Texas and New Mexico acknowledged the mistake and blamed it on a typographical error. Spokesman Dan Roman apologized to anyone who called the number and wasn’t able to take advantage of the tow offer.
Andrew J. Hewett
www.chewednews.com
THIS “JUSTICE” WAS REALLY, REALLY BLIND During drug raids early one morning in July of 1999, in the small town of Tulia, Texas, forty-three people were arrested, forty of them African-American (about 10% of Tulia’s Black male population). Only evidence was the testimony of one white undercover officer, working alone with no video surveillance, audiotapes or eyewitnesses. Yet several “first offenders” still received up to twenty years in prison. (This one episode caused Texas’ legislature to pass legislation preventing drug convictions based solely on one testimony.) THE ONE AND ONLY GORDIE HOWE During 25 years of playing pro hockey for the Detroit Red Wings (1946 to 1971), helping lead the team to 4 Stanley Cup Championships, Gordie Howe received an estimated 300 stitches to his face. WELL, THREE YEARS IS BETTER THAN NOTHING The U.S. Treasury announced on May 25, 2006, it would no longer collect the 3% federal excise tax on telephones for long-distance and bundled services. The tax began in 1898 to help pay for the Spanish-American War. Back then, only “moneyed” citizens had phones and it seemed fair. One-hundred-and-eight years later, not only was the tax stopped, but those paying phone bills over the last three years could receive a refund, but only if requested on their 2006 federal income tax return (see www.irs.gov).
4
HOLLYWOOD PROFILE
BLITZREVIEWS By: Joe Stumpo - www.darthstumpo.com
Wa s t i n g o u r m o n ey s o yo u d o n ’t h a ve t o !
with Ethan Hawke
by: Vivian Fullerlove
“Enterainment’s Real Critic”
“Oh Captain, my Captain!”—this is the line that made Ethan Hawke famous. I don’t care how much of a guy’s guy you are, anyone that saw Ethan Hawke and friends stand on their chairs in salute to Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society could feel a tear well up in the corner of their eye. You also knew that Hawke had the emotional depth and plain old talent to be a star. Fortunately, he didn’t disappoint. This Texas native has received Oscar nominations for the films Before Sunset and Training Day. He is also an accomplished author, director and stage performer. This modern day Renaissance man is thrilling movie going audiences in the new sci-fi vampire movie Daybreakers. He plays Edward Dalto, a researcher in the year 2019. An unknown plague has transformed the world’s population into vampires. As the human population nears extinction, vampires must capture and farm every remaining human, or find a blood substitute before time runs out. However, a covert group of vampires makes a remarkable discovery, one which has the power to save the human race. We caught up with Hawke to discuss the film and how it speaks to some very relevant issues of today.
resources. They’re destroying their world. That metaphor is so powerful, and it resonates at this moment in time more loudly than before.
Did you ever think, “Great, another vampire movie,” when you were considering doing the film?
You could tell right away it was really kind of unique and original. There’s a quality to the old school genre movies that I saw as a kid that I love, which is they’re all incredibly subversive. There’s something almost punk rock about them all; and I felt that immediately about this movie. It has kind of a deep, counter-culture vein running through it. And it was a lot of fun and I wanted to do a movie that was fun.
However, a covert group of vampires makes a remarkable discovery, one which has the power to save the human race.
How would you describe your character?
I play your basic protagonist. His name is Ed Dalton and he’s a vampire having a moral crisis about being a vampire. I think the brothers (writer/directors Michael and Peter Spierig) will tell you it’s the phoenix story. You meet a character that’s dead who rises from the ashes. That’s really, at its core, what it’s trying to be. It asks, ‘ how do you go from the walking dead to being an awake and alive human being.’ It has a kind of pertinent allegory for all of us. A lot of us feel like we’re the walking dead.
Is there a lesson to be learned from Daybreakers?
The scene where the vampires are running out of humans--they’re eating their own
You mentioned Michael and Peter Spierig, who cowrote and directed the film. What was it like working with two directors at the same time? Did they ever send mixed signals as to what they wanted in a scene?
When you’re being directed by two people, you realize that there is no right or wrong way, there’s just preference. There’s a certain kind of freedom in that. It’s also fun because they’re so new to the profession. They’re so young and excited. It’s a thrill to be around somebody that’s having that good a time.
Sherlock Holmes: Watching Detective Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey, Jr.) reveal
how various crimes were committed by his nemesis, Lord Blackwood, through flashbacks is like watching a CSI or NCIS episode; we learn graphically how victims in each episode meet their fate. What’s appealing about this latest incarnation of the famous detective is that although the film makes us think it’s going to be another buddy movie with Holmes and sidekick Dr. Watson (Jude Law) working together to solve a crime, such is not necessarily the case. Thank writer Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who most-likely (and thankfully) never heard of such a phrase when he wrote the books. Though I don’t think his Holmes was an action adventurer either. With a sequel already in the works (and Warner Brothers hoping this might become a lucrative long-running franchise), consider this series “Case Reopened.”
PICK OF THE WEEK
The Poseidon Adventure (1972): Producer Irwin Allen’s first of a handful
of all-star disaster movie epics began with this tale of a group of passengers led by a never give-up preacher (Gene Hackman). The survivors make their way up through the bowels of their overturned ocean liner in hopes of rescue before the ship sinks due to an oncoming tidal wave that hit shortly after midnight New Year’s Eve. Nominated for eight Oscars in 1973, it won one for best original song and a special achievement award for visual effects. Consider this one your post-New Year’s Eve treat.
Dallas Polo Club Daybreakers is playing in theatres nationwide. The film is rated R for strong, bloody violence, language and brief nudity. For all of the week’s biggest movies and your favorite celebrities, check out my show Reel Critics on Time Warner Cable Video on Demand under the North Texas programming tab! Email me your favorite Ethan Hawke film for a chance to win a pair of movie tickets to Studio Movie Grill at trivia@reelcriticstv.com.
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5 by: Jason Miller
“Music Enthusiast”
With the ever-changing landscape of music delivery complicated by a bombardment of overhyped, sub-par talent this past year, it is now both easier and more difficult to find good music. Although I am quite digitally savvy, I still prefer to go into an actual record store to find what I am looking for. I appreciate the fact that I am in an environment that was built on a passion for the music instead of just pointing and clicking in an unlimited, unfiltered world dominated by how obscure your band is and whether or not Pitchfork has given their seal of approval. With that being said, here are the best records of 2009 that came across my desk.
MUSIC: Best of ‘09 1. Flowers & Football Tops
Glasvegas – Self Titled
2. All the Pretty Girls
GLASVEGAS: Self-Titled:My favorite album of the year; atmospheric, huge guitars, brilliant songwriting and one of the best live shows I have ever seen. ALICE IN CHAINS:BLACK GIVES WAY TO BLUE:Although we all miss Layne Staley, AIC returns in true form with a new vocalist, a proper follow up to Dirt and a modern masterpiece of metal for the masses. FUN:AIM AND IGNITE: A gleefully perfect example of how indie pop is supposed to be done—without limits and gloriously theatrical. MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA:MEAN EVERYTHING TO NOTHING: An outstandingly great rock album is hard to come by, but this is one of them. PLACEBO: BATTLE FOR THE SUN:Surprisingly not found on every critic’s year-end list. The band returns to what they do best and shines brightly; a modern day Pixies, if you will. GOSSIP:MUSIC FOR MEN:Dance music with attitude. YEAH YEAH YEAH’S:IT’S BLITZ!:Hipster album of the year, crossing alternative music into the pop realm. More fun than watching the Balloon Boy on cable news. MASTODON: CRACK THE SKYE: Both brutal and complex, setting the bar high for anyone who will try to follow. Imagine if Ozzy, Yes, Tool and Lamb of God, all had a bastard child; it would be named Mastodon and it would melt your face off.
CLUTCH:STRANGE COUSINS FROM THE WEST:50,000 unstoppable watts served best with tainted brownies. If they ever legalize marijuana, Clutch will be the next Coldplay. PHOENIX:WOLFGANG AMADEUS PHOENIX:If this record somehow passed you in 2009, you need to make a resolution to pay better attention in 2010. WOLFMOTHER:COSMIC EGG:A solid, classic-rock-inspired guitar and vocal romp that delivers like Black Sabbath and Steppenwolf colliding in a high speed particle accelerator. TINTED WINDOWS:Self Titled:The best Rock Super-group of the year, and possibly the decade, pay tribute to late 70’s power-pop and do it oh-so-well. OASIS:DIG OUT YOUR SOUL:You have to give it a few listens to get it, but these guys have crafted a real solid addition to their already stellar catalog. LAMB OF GOD: WRATH:Metal juggernauts turn it up to eleven in 2009. If there is music playing in Hell, it came from this record. JULIAN CASABLANCAS:PHRAZES FOR THE YOUNG:Frontman from The Strokes proves he can go it alone and deliver his signature vocals over some seriously catchy electro-pop. LIVING THINGS:HABEAS CORPUS: Easily one of the most entertaining albums of the year with a sound somewhere between Social Distortion having a volume war with T.Rex. ENDLESS HALLWAY: AUTONOMY GAMES: Imagine Muse crossed with At The Drive In plus a touch of Radiohead; a seriously mindbending, mind-blowing roller coaster ride that’s theatrically over the top, superbly progressive and a true sonic bombardment of awesomeness.
Fun – Aim and Ignite
3. Speak in Tongues
Placebo – Battle for the Sun
4. Zero
Yeah Yeah Yeahs – It’s Blitz!
5. Oblivion
Mastadon – Crack the Skye
6. Sleestak Lightning
Clutch – Strange Cousins from the West
7. New Moon Rising
Wolfmother – Cosmic Egg
8. Dead Serious
Tinted Windows – Self Titled
9. Set to Fail
Lamb of God - Wrath
10. Cost of Living
Habeas Corpus – Living Things
6
“Mavericks Analyst”
Photo Courtesy: Gregg Case
Najera Comes Home The Mavericks didn’t pull a blockbuster trade this season...for good reason. If you get to the trade deadline holding the second best record in the conference, you’re doing something right. Why reinvent the wheel when you’re getting strong contributions from the whole roster? However, the Mavericks made a small trade with New Jersey that’s as much about finances as it is about the players involved. It’s rumored that the Mavs could save up to $4.7 million in salary and luxury-tax savings. The trade brings 6’8 Eduardo Najera and a trade exception that New Jersey owns to the Mavericks for Kris Humphries and Shawne Williams. Najera played for Dallas in 2004 and was a fan favorite with high energy and scrappy rebounding. The Mavericks have been trying to
get rid of Shawne Williams’ contract after he was asked not to participate in any team functions. Kris Humphries had some good games in Dallas, showing NBA potential to the rest of the league. The trade benefits both teams with the Mavs getting a battle-tested veteran and the Nets get a youngster with an intriguing skill set. Upcoming Opponents: 1/15 vs Oklahoma City Thunder – Kevin Durant is piping hot after dropping 40 on the Pacers. They’re becoming a good team. 1/17 at Toronto Raptors – Chris Bosh and company were on a good stretch last week before losing to the Celtics. The Mavs seem to always have their number, but it’s still a tough road game in Canada. 1/18 at Boston Celtics – Kevin Garnett should still be out with injury, but Rajon Rondo is carrying the load. 1/20 at Washington Wizards – The Gilbert Arenas situation could have a unifying effect for the squad, but probably not this early. There’s no excuse to lose this one. Prediction for this stretch: 3-1
STARS:News
by: Richard S. Pollak “That Hockey Guy”
Ribeiro Injured, Stars Frustrated The Dallas Stars have been fortunate this season not to lose any major talent to injuries (albeit Jere Lehtinen’s constant groin injury). Unfortunately, though, they must face the toughest part of their season, a man down. Center Mike Ribeiro is out with a throat contusion he received during the Stars loss to the Rangers in New York. Up until the accidental high stick, the Stars were blessed with a healthy squad (in comparison to last year). Now, Coach Marc Crawford is going to have to call upon veteran Center Mike Modano and Left Wing Steve Ott to pick up the slack from missing Ribeiro. Despite the lack of injuries, the Stars still have to fight very hard with Los Angeles and Detroit for the last playoff spot. Now is the time of year when conference rivals start to separate and spread out in the standings by more point differentials. It becomes more and more difficult to catch up and hold
the 8th and final spot in the West with so many one-point, over-time losses. For the Stars to win, they’re going to have to play better than the “60%” Coach Crawford says they are currently performing at. The first-year bench boss says he was only “tweeking” his lineup before the Ribeiro incident, but he has displayed the same pains to change the face of the lineup as former coach Dave Tippett did last year. The Stars must win on the road in Philly and Montreal before returning to the more comfortable confines of the American Airlines Center, where they will face the Detroit Red Wings Saturday afternoon. The Red Wings remain in 9th place ahead of our Stars, keeping them out of the playoffs. If they can gain momentum on the road, they could very well take that spot. The Stars close out the home stand with the Minnesota Wild before heading back out on the road.
Photo Courtesy: Manny Flores
MAVS:News
by: Geoff Case
7 - Craig Smith
- Tony Barone
- Jayson Larson
North Texas finished up a three-game road schedule against Louisiana-Lafayette. Down by twelve at halftime, they made a comeback, but came up short 74-72. George Odufuwa had his fourth double-double of the year with 15 points and 12 rebounds. He leads the Sun Belt in rebounds and is on pace to have the most rebounds for a North Texas player since Ronnie Morgan in 1988 with 305. Shannon Shorter had a career high 14 points. Saturday, they took on New Orleans at home. Eric Tramiel sat out his fourth straight game with a wrist injury. Tristan Thompson, who leads the Sun Belt with 20.4 points per game in conference play, didn’t start due to an illness, but still scored 18. Game time was moved up in the day, so fans could watch the Cowboys-Eagles playoff game. Josh White reached a milestone on a reverse layup becoming the 18th player in school history to score 1,000 career points. He was the leading scorer with 21 points as the Mean Green won 71-57. They are now 10-6. They travel to play Troy on Thursday. Saturday, they get another chance at home with Arkansas State, who beat them 71-56 on January 2nd.
The Mustangs used a balanced attack and hot shooting to handle the North Carolina Central Eagles 78-50 in a non-conference tilt at Moody Coliseum Saturday. Junior Forward Pappa Dia led the Mustangs with 16 points in the first ever meeting between these schools. SMU (5-8) led 36-19 at the half, and scored the first 7 points of the 2nd half on the way to a 15-2 run. The Mustangs shot 65% from the field and were 8 of 15 from 3-point range. Chasten scored 16 points to lead the Eagles (2-13). SMU returns to Conference USA action Wednesday to host the 12-3 Tulsa Golden Hurricane. There was a lot of discussion pre-season that Tulsa could possibly unseat current conference champion Memphis, who has dominated the conference championship in the last few years. Tulsa brings a potent inside/outside threat, comprised of two preseason all-Conference USA players, senior point-guard Uzoh and 7’, 250-pound senior center Jordan. SMU plays 5 of its next 6 games at home, including a conference game with the University of Alabama Birmingham on Jan. 16. UAB, with an impressive 14-2 record, has been getting votes in the national polls in recent weeks.
The Horned Frogs opened up Mountain West Conference play at home against the Air Force Academy Falcons last Wednesday. Senior forward Zvonko Buljan (TCU Athlete of the Month in December) had his 14th career double-double with a 14 point, 11 rebound performance, leading TCU to a 59-50 victory. Sophomore guard Ronnie Moss added 10 points and six assists, while Sophomore forward Kevin Butler had 12 points and eight rebounds. Saturday afternoon, the Frogs traveled to Salt Lake City to battle the Utah Utes. Utah took a 29-24 lead into halftime and opened up the second half on a 14-3 run. They never surrendered their double digit lead and came away with a 65-45 victory, their first conference victory of the year. Senior guard Keion Mitchem led the Frogs in scoring with 14 points. With that setback, TCU fell to 8-8 on the season and 1-1 in Mountain West Conference action. Saturday, the Frogs are at San Diego State. The Aztecs are 12-4, including 8-0 at home. They have a balanced attack with four players averaging in double figures in scoring. Both teams are 1-1 in MWC play.
Dexter-ity On January 2nd, I attended the first Cotton Bowl played at Cowboys Stadium. I got to see something that has never happened in the history of SEC football. I have always followed the conference closely, being an alumni of the University of Kentucky. Dexter McCluster became the first player in conference history with 1,000 yards rushing and 500 yards receiving in the same season. The list is deep of great running backs in the conference including: Shaun Alexander, Bo Jackson, Jamal Lewis, Emmitt Smith and Herschel Walker. He took the ball in the second quarter, broke to the right, turned the corner and 86 yards later, he was in the endzone. Talk about jets-- this guy can fly. I was more amazed after the game, in the interview room, when
by: Craig Smith “Sportsologist” - csmith@blitzweekly.com
I stood next to him and saw how small he is. He was listed generously in the game program at 5-9 and 170 pounds. He’s been incredibly durable this season and has long insisted he could carry a bigger load. He is listed as a receiver/running back and was mostly thought of as a pass catcher his first three seasons. The first half of this season, he was used sparingly as a running back and didn’t even start until the fifth game. The second half of the season, he was one of the best, if not the best, running back in the country. He was simply amazing to watch. He ran for 821 yards in his last five SEC games(four teams of which played in bowl games). Against Tennessee, he put up a staggering 282 yards on 25 carries and 4 touchdowns. This season, he has five plays
of 50-plus yards. Against Arkansas, he had 123 yards rushing to go along with 7 catches for 137 yards and a touchdown. I can’t wait to see him play in the NFL. He is electrifying to watch. I see him being a Darren Sproles or Reggie Bush-like player. I’ve heard him being compared to Chris Johnson several times. I’m not sure what role he will play, but he will make somebody a well-rounded player. He will dazzle scouts with his speed at the NFL Combine. It’s his dream to play at the next level. He is motivated by those who say he can’t do it because of his size. “His heart is bigger than this stadium, I promise you,” said Houston Nutt after the Cotton Bowl game at Jerryworld. Size doesn’t matter when you have the will.
Red Wings vs Stars Saturday, Jan 16 - 1:00 p.m. - AAC - FOX Not only are the Red Wings our biggest rival, but they currently stand between the Stars and the final playoff spot. Sure they have a little bit better record than us, but our teamleaders, Richards and Erikkson, are outshining their leaders, Holmstrom and Datsyuk. If Marty can hold down the goal and Modano can find it in him to play with extra intensity on account of Ribeiro being out, we really do have a shot.
Cardinals vs Saints
Saturday, Jan 16 - 3:30 p.m. - Superdome - FOX The Saints lost some momentum at the end of their regular season and Arizona seriously gained some in their last match-up, so this should be a very interesting game. While New Orleans will have the comfort of home field and hard-core fans, the Cards have something to prove since their Super Bowl loss.
Cowboys vs Vikings
Sunday, Jan 17 - Noon - Metrodome - FOX We don’t think we really need to give you a reason why to watch this game, but just in case...We don’t know how long it will be before we see our Cowboys are victorious in the playoffs again. The Cowboys are on a roll with outstanding defense and a balanced offense. The Vikings have Favre and AP. Should be a real grudge match!
NFL PLAYOFFS
WILD CARD LINES Sat., Jan. 16 LINE At New Orleans -7 At Indianpolis -6.5
Underdog Arizona Baltimore
TIME 3:30pm 7:15pm
Sun., Dec. 17 At Minnesota At San Diego
Underdog Dallas NY Jets
TIME Noon 3:40pm
LINE -3 -7.5
8
FOOD REVIEW
The Pick of the Week:
by: Jennifer Wayne “The Foxie Foodie”
a gamer, SETTING Ifthisyouis arepretty much
your dream restaurant. Located on the second floor of mega-arcade, GameWorks, this restaurant has a lot to offer besides food. The main dining area opens up to the second-floor arcade. If you’re a parent, this is great because you can keep an eye on your kid, who will probably be enjoying the “ticket prize” games exclusive to this floor, while you enjoy a Tequila Sunrise. Oh yes, my friend, there is alcohol here...and it’s quality. There is a full-service bar connected to the restaurant, as well. This area is 21-and-up only. It has pool tables and karaoke nights. So if you’re not a parent, or attached, check out this spot that tends to be frequented with singles. offer your standard chips-n-dip and sliders (they are the APPETIZERS They only ones I have ever seen that claim to be lean), but one thing
in the appetizer section you won’t find on any other menu is the Santa Fe Chicken Potato Skins. The skins are filled with highly-seasoned, juicy chicken chunks and topped off with jack and cheddar cheeses, olives, cilantro and sour cream sauce with a kick. Another item you could start off with is their signature chili served with chips and guacamole. Perfect during the winter weather. want to take on a challenge while you are eating, there is a ENTREES Iflil’you something known as the “Double Decker.” This massive cheese-
burger weighs in at a whopping one and a quarter pounds. It is, of course, a double stack of Angus beef with jack and cheddar cheese on top. If you can finish this beast off, you’ll be rewarded with a $10 game card. If you’re not up to defeating the Double Decker, check out either the third-pound Kobe hot dog or the Kobe Philly, which is a Kobe hot dog topped with the classic Philly ingredients. There is a suggestion to add chili to that...I wouldn’t go that far. The Cuban Flatbread is excellent, too, and, if you’re still on that New Year’s diet, they have massive salads. Although, I have a feeling they aren’t that light on the calorie side. Ehh...you tried. that you didn’t take a stab at the burger challenge or finish DESERTS Assuming the behemoth known as a salad, go for the Warm Banana Fudge Sundae. It’s a grilled banana topped with vanilla ice cream, piping hot fudge and caramel. Fruit is good for you, right?
have ten types of margaritas, including a blueberry one. They DRINKS They have a sizable list of martinis. I can tell you, for sure, to stay away
from the Sake Martini...that plus the flashing lights and game sounds is nothing but headache inducing. Go with something milder like the Ginger Peach Fizz, which is a combo of Stoli Persik, Wyder’s Pear Cider, ginger ale and fresh ginger pieces. Side note: this is the only place in Texas where I’ve seen a Tom Collins actually on a drink menu.
GameWorks at Grapevine Mills Mall 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine • 972-539-6757 www.gameworks.com
9 by: Jennifer Wayne “Foxie Gamer”
Type of Game: Action Adventure Console: Highly-famed developer Hideo Kojima finally confirmed Xbox 360 what fans of the Xbox 360 console have long hoped for: Release Date: The Metal Gear Solid franchise is coming to Microsoft’s TBA 2010 gaming device. Titled Metal Gear Solid Rising, the new game will follow the adventures of the ninja Raiden, with Kojima offering very few other details. The Metal Gear franchise has always been secretive about the release dates, but the games are the work of a visionary genius. The last game in the series, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, was a PS3 exclusive, but visually one of the best games ever made.
Metal Gear Solid Rising
BLITZ RATING
8 out of 10
Kojima knows no wrong!
UFC Undisputed 2010
Type of Game: Fighting Console: Xbox 360, PS3 , PSP Release Date: May 2010
UFC 2010 Undisputed is an explosive fighting game detailing the action, intensity and attitude of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Featuring authentic, real-life fighters and comprehensive UFC atmosphere, including an extensive roster of the best mixed martial arts fighters in the world, players will push the envelope with a powerful new game engine and put their best fighting disciplines to the test in the world famous Octagon.
BLITZ RATING
10 out of 10
Visiting his brother’s kingdom following his advent in Azad, the Prince finds the royal palace under si from a mighty army bent on its destruction. When decision is made to use the ancient power of the S in a desperate gamble to save the kingdom from Prince will embark on an epic adventure in which h mantle of true leadership and discover that great po a great cost.
BLITZ RATING
8 out of 10
Will coincide with 2
God of War III
Set in the realm of Greek mythology, God of War III, the last time, puts Kratos at the center of the carn and destruction as he seeks revenge against the G who have betrayed him. A single-player game, this fi chapter allows players to take on the climatic role o rior, Kratos, as he treads through the intimidating h and the dark depths of Hell once more to seek re ers. Armed with double-chained blades, Kratos mus darkest creatures while solving intricate puzzles thr quest to destroy Olympus. BLITZ RATING
Dana White’s endorsement is enough for us!
Type of Game: Sci-fi Shooter Console: The first Bioshock was a narrative-driven shooter that Xbox 360, PS3, PC managed to balance a deeply interesting art style and Release Date: game-play into a cohesive package. The story was wellFeb. 2010 crafted into the settings and slowly peeled back the horrors that fell on the underwater utopia named “Rapture.” The highlight of the game-play was the innovative system of using genetics to slowly turn your character into the ultimate weapon to escape the underwater nightmare. The sequel allows gamers to experience the world from an entirely different perspective by putting them in the shoes of one of the most feared and misunderstood enemies of the first title, the “Big Daddy.”
BioShock 2
BLITZ RATING
8 out of 10
Prince of Persia Forgotten Sands
Gripping storyline and gorgeous graphics!
10 out of 10
Kratos i
Star Wars:The Old Republic
We all know how addictive World of Warcraft is, injecting that type of game with Star Wars lore co cause people to completely lose touch with rea What we’ve seen of Star Wars: The Old Republic only scratched the surface of what’s in store for mas line fans. In addition to choosing a profession from to as “a variety of classic Star Wars roles,” your cha to pursue an education in the mysterious ways of Jedi padawan learning the Light Side, or as a Sith a ways of the Dark Side.
BLITZ RATING
8 out of 10
Go outside now b
Type of Game: Action Adventure Console: ture 360, PS3, PSP, Wii, DS iege Release Date: the May 2010 Sand total annihilation, the he will learn to bear the ower often comes with
Halo:Reach
s
Type of Game: Sci-fi Shooter Console: Xbox 360, PS3 Release Date: TBA 2010
A prequel to the original Halo, Halo: Reach follows a SPARTAN squad as they fight the Covenant on a besieged fortress world. The big wigs at Microsoft are keeping a tight lid on the details surrounding this blockbuster title, but it will be out this year. The story is rumored to be the explanation of the rise and fall the SPARTAN program. Two things are always certain for Halo titles. One: they will sell a butt-load of copies. Two: it will be a great game with an addictive multiplayer.
BLITZ RATING
8 out of 10
2010 movie release!
Type of Game: Action Adventure Console: , for PS3 nage Release Date: Gods March 2010 final of the ex-Spartan warheights of Mt. Olympus evenge on his betrayst take on mythology’s roughout his merciless
Gran Turismo 5
Spartans never die, they go M.I.A.!
Type of Game: Driving Console: PS3 Release Date: March 2010
Gran Turismo 5 takes the series to a whole new level. A first for the franchise, the game supports online racing and features over 950 cars, over 20 courses, 70 variations, the newest hybrid cars and electric cars, a new physics engine, a new in-cockpit view, HD support and much more. Gran Turismo will feature both a single player and split-screen two-player arcade mode. GT Mode includes world map, my garage, car dealer, tuning shop, championship race, and license test. Online support includes open lobby, text/voice chat, private room, online photo album, online replay album, and export of replays to YouTube.
BLITZ RATING
10 out of 10
is the F’ing the Best!
Type of Game: Sci-fi MMORPG Console: PC Release Date: TBI 2010
Alan Wake
Type of Game: Free-roam Console: Xbox 360 Release Date: April 2010
Fill the shoes of one Alan Wake, a man who makes his living from the terror of others as a best-selling suspense novelist. Trapped in the deceptively peaceful Washington town of Bright Falls, where he came to escape the trauma of losing his fiancée, Alan must piece together a mystery to prevent himself from being trapped inside a nightmarish world forever. An intense psychological thriller from the creators of Max Payne, Alan Wake looks to raise the bar for future games, creating a true cinematic experience. Explore an expansive world filled with missions, unique puzzles, intense combat, and horrifying enemies.
but ould ality. has ssively multiplayer onm what LucasArts refers aracter will also be able f the Force, either as a apprentice, learning the
before this releases!
Rub it in their face on YouTube!
BLITZ RATING
BLITZ RATING
8 out of 10
The biggest title in the first half of 2010!
8 out of 10
Remedy + Microsoft = HIT!
13 by: Jennifer Wayne “Foxie Gamer”
I
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN RADIO? DON’T ASK RADIO PEOPLE…
work for a broadcast media outlet without a home on the terrestrial radio dial—which means I work for a radio station without …ya know, a radio station. DFW’s AM 1360 is a 50,000 watt powerhouse signal --stretching from Ardmore, Oklahoma to Waco, and just as far from east to west…in the daytime. The FCC requires some AM frequencies to power down at night, meaning that AM 1360 turns into the equivalent of a string between two soup cans from sunset until well into traditional morning drive time. I’ve received hundreds of e-mails from listeners complaining about missing a guest or a caller or some other segment on the show because “I couldn’t hear you yet!” So when the time came to renew our contract with AM 1360, we decided to go away from the traditional broadcast platform and try something different. Rational Radio 2.0 is internet-based, with real-time streaming video accessible from UStream.tv linked to our home page, www. rationalbroadcasting.com. We have expanded to include Twitter, Facebook, Skype, YouTube and podcasting capabilities on a totally revamped homepage (again, www.rationalbroadcasting.com— gotta get that in a couple more times). Archived broadcasts of every show are just a mouse-click away. If you missed something,
you can always go back and check it out. Yet some radio people scoff at a station without a stick (an insider term for a signal, like AM 1360). “There’s only one way to do radio,” an old friend said to me recently. “They find you on the dial, and they keep you on the dial,” which might have been true when it was, in fact, a dial. I have only one radio left with a dial as opposed to a digital signal indicator, and that’s my in-case-ofemergency, battery-operated TV/radio combo. When people in electronic media tell you that there’s only one way to do things, feel free to express your skepticism and point to the nearest laptop. Everything from podcasts on your iPod to radio apps on your
by: Rich Hancock
rich@rationalradio.org
smart phone to wi-fi accessible notebooks points to constant change in the broadcasting world. Broadcasting is changing almost daily. I’m nearly fifty years-old now, and most of the time, I just want to find the game or the movie or the news in the same old places I used to…but I can’t. Do you remember that old batterypowered TV/radio I mentioned? That relic illustrates my point rather well because, you see, the old black and white TV is analog, and almost all of the channels are now digital. So it’s really just a radio. So, while we are still considering various locations on the terrestrial radio “dial” to call home, progressive talk in Dallas/Fort Worth is alive and well and “livin’ on the air” at www.rationalbroadcasting.com. Why? Because we are still “The Talk You’ve Been Missing.” Rich Hancock is the host of “Rational Talk with Rich Hancock.” It can be heard from 7 a.m. until 10 a.m. weekdays at www.rationalbroadcasting.com. You can e-mail him at rich@rationalradio.org. Also check out archived programs on UStream.tv or follow him on Twitter, Facebook, yadda, yadda, yadda…
14
by: Joe Avezzano “The Coach”
Now that the Cowboys have done away with many of their demons, they can get ready for the next task at hand--preparing for the Minnesota Vikings. From a coach’s perspective, it’s a relief to focus on what’s ahead instead of worrying about the past. To rid yourself of past demons, you must win as that is the only outcome that allows critics to move on. Beating the Eagles two weeks in a row in such convincing fashion is a mental boost that can only come by actually doing it on the field. No amount of talk can substitute for getting it done. How did they get it done? It has nothing to do with the playoffs. It has to do with playing a brand of football that wins period. When a team has a kicking game that supplies your team with excellent field position, a defense that stifles the opposing attack and an offense that protects the football, you have the opportunity to win any game, any time. The play-
offs add a win-or-go-home mentality, but the basis for winning is still the same. What brings this about? Routine. Players and coaches are creatures of habit. They like to do the same thing over and over because then they are comfortable in their preparation. Players will come in Monday, workout and rehash the Eagles game, take Tuesday off and come back on Wednesday for the Vikings gameplan. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday is normal on-field preparation. Saturday get on a plane. Sunday play the game. The important thing will be to concentrate and practice at a pace that allows you to enjoy the game experience because you can refer back to your practice and have confidence that regardless of who you play, you will perform well. Playing the Vikings in their very loud stadium will require poise. They can look at the Saints game and how well they played under that high noise level. They’ll probably even use noise machines at practice to increase concentration. The wins at Philly and New Orleans will assure them that the
road is not an obstacle. The Vikings have a terrific defense both against the run and fortified by a potent pass rush. The key here will be the ability to threaten them with a run game that will keep the pass rush at bay, so they can attack a suspect secondary. Minnesota has an offense featuring two of the best in the league. Adrian Peterson and Brett Favre are at the top of their game and present great challenges for our outstanding defense. Look at the stats after the game and it will probably show that the team with the fewest turnovers has won this game. They are evenly matched so the team with the fewest mistakes will win. There is not a team still playing that the Cowboys can’t beat. Coach Joe can be heard on KHYI 95.3 on Tuesday nights 7-9pm and on ESPN radio. Come by and say hello at Hat Tricks Sports Bar and Grill in Lewisville. Your home to great sports and great music.
by: Jayson Larson
Photo Courtesy: James D. Smith
“Man on the Inside”
Years of playoff frustration for the Dallas Cowboys came to an end Saturday evening at Cowboys Stadium. The ‘Boys demolished their division rival Philadelphia Eagles 34-13. That’s 13 years to be exact...4,760 days...since their last playoff victory on December 28, 1996, which ironically came against their next opponent, the Minnesota Vikings. Safety George Teague was the star of the game as the Cowboys took advantage of five Vikings turnovers to take a 30-0 lead before easily winning 40-15. To put into perspective how long ago this was, future Cowboys wide receivers Keyshawn Johnson, Terry Glenn and Terrell Owens were rookies. Current Cowboys DeMarcus Ware and Jason Witten were just 14 years-old and Tony Romo was 16 years-old. Brett Favre was the NFL MVP as he led the Green Bay Packers to the Super Bowl XXXI championship over Bill Parcells, Drew Bledsoe and the New England Patriots. The same Brett Favre led the Minnesota Vikings to the NFC North title this season. Following last season, Favre retired from the New York Jets, only to un-retire near the end of training camp and join the Vikings. At the age of 40, Favre turned in one of his best seasons as he threw for 4,202 yards with 33 touchdowns and only seven interceptions. Upon a closer look, Brett Favre was essentially perfect at home as he threw for 21 TDs against only two interceptions. “It’s been a great year,” Favre said. “I’m not surprised by the fact that we are in the playoffs. This team is capable of a lot of good things.” Before last Saturday, Tony Romo (whose style is often com-
pared to that of Brett Favre) was 0-2 in the playoffs, with two heart-breaking losses. But that was then. This is now. “It’s rewarding,” Romo said, after earning his first playoff win. “We still have loftier goals, though.” If those “loftier goals” are to include a Super Bowl run, the Cowboys’ next step comes Sunday at noon at Mall of America Field at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis. This will be no easy task as the Vikings went 8-0 at home this season, with much of their “home-field advantage” based on the noise. “I’ve played in almost all of the stadiums in the NFL,” Vikings defensive tackle Pat Williams said. “I think ours is the loudest.” Romo, Felix Jones, and Miles Austin will have their hands full with the tough Vikings defense led by Jared Allen, but the key to a Cowboys victory will be DeMarcus Ware, Anthony Spencer, and the rest of the defense and their ability to shutdown Favre and running back Adrian Peterson. If they are able to control the line of scrimmage as they have the last four weeks, the Metrodome should be as quiet as the Superdome in New Orleans when the Cowboys destroyed the Saints bid for a perfect season. America’s Team is leaving the plush Cowboys Stadium behind to head up to the raggedy old Metrodome to take on the team they fleeced in the Herschel Walker trade en route to three Super Bowl titles in the 1990s. Expect the Dallas Cowboys to leave town with a smile on their face.
Prediction: Cowboys 24 - Vikings 20
15
By: Sybil Summers
sybilsummers.com
17
ACROSS 1. Ancient Peruvian 5. Glacial ice formation 10. Not tame 14. Rude person 15. Small hill 16. Dwarf buffalo 17. Constant 19. Mix 20. Behold 21. Circle fragments 22. Stick 24. Glove 25. Smiled contemptuously 26. Except when 29. Abandon 30. Bing, bang or boom 31. Not upper 32. Means 35. Bit 36. Not a winner 37. City in Peru 38. A single thing 39. Inhabited 40. Large commercial ship 41. Protested violently 43. Protect 44. Libel 46. Nipple 47. A small piece of cloth or paper 48. Broad-billed swimming bird 49. Schuss 52. Chills and fever 53. Teenager 56. Nonflowering plant 57. Poison 58. Auditory 59. Worry 60. Pharaoh’s land 61. Tub
DOWN 1. Nile bird 2. Not a single one 3. Sheltered nook 4. Southern constellation 5. Passes around or avoids 6. Make into law 7. Holds up 8. Each and every one 9. Ajax or Mr. Clean 10. Usually paired with a dryer 11. Interlace 12. France’s longest river 13. Challenged 18. Increase 23. Elk or caribou 24. Tableland 25. Stitched 26. Pearly-shelled mussel 27. Midday 28. Creative writing 29. Drugged 31. Paramour 33. Ends a prayer 34. 3 feet 36. Able to read and write 37. Raise 39. Prospector’s find 40. Drips 42. Purpose 43. Socially correct 44. A rod carried as a symbol 45. A type of beer 46. Garden bulb 48. Courtesan 49. Stiff hair 50. Make a sweater 51. Skin irritation 54. Canine 55. Adult male swan
Blitz Weekly Funnies for the Week Q: What is an eternity? A: Four blondes in four cars at a four-way stop. Q: What do you call a group of skydiving lawyers? A: Skeet. Q: Why do accountants make good lovers? A: They’re great with their figures. Q: Why haven’t any women ever gone to the moon? A: It doesn’t need cleaning yet.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) You are conservative and afraid of taking risks. You don’t do much of anything and are considered lazy. There has never been a Capricorn of any real importance.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) You have an inventive mind and are inclined to be progressive. You’re also inclined to be careless and impractical causing you to make the same mistakes repeatedly. You often appear stupid.
Pisces (Feb. 19 - Mar. 20) You have a vivid imagination and often think you are being followed. You have a minor influence over your associates and people resent you for flaunting your power. You lack confidence and class.
Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19) You are the pioneer-type and hold most people in contempt. You are quick tempered, impatient and scornful of advice. You are a prick.
Falling Down Drunk A man is in a bar and falling off his stool every couple of minutes. He is obviously drunk. So the bartender says to another man in the bar, “Why don’t you be a good Samaritan and take him home.” The man takes the drunk out the door and to his car and he stumbles at least ten times. They drive along and the drunk points out his house to the man. He stops the car and the drunk stumbles up the steps to his house with the man. The drunk’s wife greets them at the door. “Why thank you for bringing him home for me, but where’s his wheel chair?”
Horrorscopes
Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20)
Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)
Gemini (May 21 - Jun. 21)
Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22)
Cancer (Jun. 22 – Jul. 22)
Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21)
Leo (Jul. 23 - Aug. 22)
Sagittarius(Nov. 22 - Dec. 21)
You’re practical and persistent. You have a dogged determination and will work like hell. You’re stubborn and bullheaded and will not accept advice from others. Most Taurus’ play with themselves a lot.
You are a quick and intelligent thinker. People like you because you are bisexual. However, you are inclined to expect too much for too little, leading people to conclude that you are cheap. You are sympathetic and understanding to other people’s problems. They think you are a sucker. On the other hand, you are always putting things off, and that is why you never get anything done. You consider yourself a born leader while others think you are pushy. Most Leo’s are bullies by nature. You are vain and cannot tolerate honest criticism. Your arrogance causes friction with others.
You are the logical type and hate disorder. This nitpicking is sickening to your friends. You are cold and unemotional and often fall asleep while making love. Virgos make excellent IRS agents.
You are the artistic type and have a difficult time with reality. If you are male you are most likely gay. Most Libra women are considered easy.
You are shrewd in business and cannot be trusted. You achieve the pinnacle of success because of your lack of ethics. You are the perfect son of a bitch. Most Scorpios are socially retarded.
You have a reckless tendency to rely on luck since you lack talent. The majority of Sagittarians are substance abusers. People laugh at you a great deal because you are always getting screwed.
18 by: Pat MoranThrone”
“Man on his Throne” - pmoran@gmail.com
In Defense of Passive Aggressive Notes In all honesty, passive aggression is one of the most annoying habits a person can have. The timid act of acting like everything is fine while not ever owning up to the way you feel is the quickest way to be labeled a tool, ass or just plain annoying. For example, when you can tell that someone is upset with you and you ask a simple, “What’s wrong?” and get a depressed-sounding, “uh, nothing...it’s fine” and then they proceed to act like you kicked their puppy. Just come out and say it, right? The most anger-inducing act of passive aggression is “the note.” Most often found in the form of a little yellow Post-It, the passive-aggressivenote is common among roommates, friends, girlfriends and parents. They range from “Hey, you drank my milk…did you realize it wasn’t yours” to “We need to talk” to “I think I’m going to move out.” By all accounts the P.A.N. (ooh, acronym time!) should be avoided
Crossword Solution
whenever possible. But sometimes, I find, it works. Think about it for a second. Would you rather deal with a note or an absolutely annoying individual face-to-face? You at least get a warning before you have to have a conversation. It’s also a good way to find out what type of person you are dealing with. If your girlfriend is leaving you P.A.N’s, it’s probably a sign she’s riding atop the crazy bus. Also, if you look at it, passive aggression is the most easy to deal with type of aggression. Imagine getting an “incredibly aggressive note,” i.e., “HEY A$$HOLE! YOU DRANK MY MILK AND NOW I’M GOING TO BREAK YOUR JAW.” I’d rather take the passive one, if you don’t mind. I’m not saying that the passive-aggressive-note is a good thing. On the hierarchy of good things, it rates between public vomiting and evil monkeys. All I’m saying is that the next time you get a notice that asks, “Stop eating my cereal…it’s mine,” remind yourself how it could be...broken jaws and all.
by: Jesse “Mary Jane” Whitman
TURING HARD TIMES INTO HAPPY TIMES GOD BLESS AMERICA & POT FOR PROVIDING JOBS NOT REQUIRING US TO TAKE OFF OUR CLOTHES, SHAKE OUR BOOBIES OR TURN TRICKS FOR FOOD! FOX News is confusing the American public after reporting last week on what they referred to as “Pot Paradise” and ‘Disadvantaged Kids’ not going to college and skipping their so-called “Big Career Opportunities.” Of course, I’m not referring to the one old woman over eighty who was interviewed. She obviously needs an intervention for being so uptight, making her an ideal candidate for medical marijuana. Just ask her husband. FOX News, could you please inform the public what ‘Big Career Opportunities’— besides Wal-Mart—you are referring to? Though, if you are stuck working in a hell-hole like Wal-Mart, medical marijuana is the prescription needed to get through such a dismal life. And for those with Master’s degrees, I know of many who are currently working at strip clubs—and doing worse than smoking pot just to get through the night--not to mention handfuls of personal colleagues
and friends who were six-figure earners less than two years ago. They went bankrupt in approximately 45 days due to a clause that states “the bank for any reason can force the loan due in 30-45 days,” a common practice by banks, such as your neighborhood Sun Trust. If not paid, all your assets are frozen. I wonder if the anchors at FOX could pay off their home loans with only a 30-45 day notice? Maybe one of their affiliations could give them the money? Personally, I’m considering a simpler, less stressful lifestyle. Moving to “Pot Paradise” sounds great right now! FOX News, can you please send me more information on companies hiring out in California? I doubt I need to spend another 100k or more on loans for more schooling to clip and sniff. Here’s a thought: smoking a good joint may help many Americans put life back into perspective once again, not to mention job creation.