Weekly Annoyances

The weekly annoyances are back for the 2nd edition and without further ado, let's get right into it.....

Weekly Annoyance #1

This is something that effects us all no matter where we live and it's road construction. Now let me first say that I understand that road construction is a necessary job to do because the roads in most of the country and especially PA are shit, but why does it have to take so long??? I've seen these guys out there in the morning, afternoon, evening and even overnight and there is mo right time to do it. I can honestly say that it isn't the road work that pisses me off but it's the 5 guys that are on the crew that stand around and do NOTHING!!! The fact that these guys make pretty good money for doing nothing is amazing to me. You're the reason that millions of drivers like me get pissed off at road construction workers. You give the other guys a bad name. The other thing about this whole road construction is that when cars go by the knuckleheads with the "slow" & "stop" signs, the drivers wave. Why in the hell are you waving to these guys?? For letting you go by?? Give me a break!! This whole crew just cost all of us 20 minutes at least on our commute and you are going to wave to them as if to say "thanks"??? They don't give a shit about you or the other 20 cars in front of and in back of you so please stop waving. So to the lazy road construction workers that are just standing there doing nothing and the drivers that try to kiss their asses by waving to them... knock that shit off!!!!!!!

Weekly Annoyance # 2

For almost a month now this Casey Anthony trial has been on tv and the whole thing is shady to me. First off let me say that for any of you sick bastards out there that thinks she is hot I got 2 things to say.... 1st- she killed her child, not sexy!!! 2nd- if you look closely at her, she looks like yoda from Star Wars, sexy it's not!! Now, on to the trial itself. I'm annoyed that the public is rushing to get into the courtroom as if it was a concert with their favorite musician. Ridiculous. Are we that petty of a country and have nothing better to do than make this bitch seem like a damn celebrity?????? SHE KILLED A CHILD!!!!!!!! C'mon people, get a clue. The whole trial annoys me that this family is getting their 15 minutes of fame at the expense of this little girl, it's sickening. Now I will say there were 2 things that happened today during the trial that made sense. She waived her right to testify which is smart because she'd probably say something incriminating. The second thing is the incident with the spectator that flipped off the prosecution today. Awesome! Way to go buddy!! You got made an example by the judge by doing this and got 6 days in jail and a total fine of $662. Great job pal!! Listen, for the people who feel bad for Casey Anthony, think she's hot, stop it!!! Also for the spectator who works for TGI Friday's and anyone else thinking of acting like this in the courtroom where they shouldn't be anyway, in case you didn't hear the judge, knock that shit off!!!!

Weekly Annoyance #3

This will be short and to the point. Boston Red Sox fans, stop. The phillies took 2 out of 3 against you and made you look silly with a rookie. If I were you, I would not feel happy winning the 3rd game the way you did. The fans of red sox nation should worry about your pitching staff after Lester, because there is not much there besides papelbon. Also, I want to say this and I want to make sure you hear me. If you're going to talk shit, talk shit the whole time. When the phils won the first 2 games, I didn't hear shit from any of you. Now you won the 3rd game you start talking??? That's why nobody respects you as a fanbase. Just like nobody heard shit from you until the 3rd week of the season because of the dreadful start, here you go again. I will leave a of you red sox fans with this to think about until maybe October. Your great and powerful team who everyone thought would crush the phils lost 2 out of 3 and the hated Yankees who your sox are supposedly head and shoulders better than, overtook you for 1st place. So the next time you talk shit, don't hide when you lose and be pricks, there will be voice in your head that quietly will tell you, knock that shit off!!!!

So there you have this week's annoyances. I hope you enjoyed them and I'm sure many of you can relate to them. I'll be back next week with more annoyances and to remind everyone to.... KNOCK THAT SHIT OFF!!!!!

Dear FIFA & Frank McCourt,

This is a 2-part letter to 2 different entities that share a similar characteristic, being an idiot!!!!

This past weekend was the Gold Cup final between the USA and Mexico. I know that soccer is just a tiny blip on the sports radar here in the United States, but FIFA has done nothing to change that. Unless you have the Fox Soccer Channel included in your cable package, you were unable to watch the game in any other language besides Spanish on Univision. Now I understand that soccer is globally one of the most popular sports and it hasn't seen the same popularity here in the USA, but maybe showing the game on ESPN 2 would help?? After last year's world cup, soccer was very high in popularity in this country. If you were smart FIFA, you would capitalize on that since the USA is such a large commercial market. However, just like the NHL did after the winter olympics, you dropped the ball. Listen, I'm a sports fan in general and soccer is entertaining to watch as is hockey but if it's not available for viewing then it doesn't matter. FIFA, there is a good product here and a good market here in the USA, take advantage of it while you can. Just like the NHL, you're killing the sport in this country. With the NFL, and the NBA having lockouts in place and looming, this your chance to try and shine and you dropped the ball. With all the resources here in America, soccer could huge. I get why hockey is not as popular for kids because it is an expensive sport, however soccer can be played alone with a ball. FIFA, you're a disgrace and are responsible for soccer being the red-headed step child of American sports!!

Speaking of a disgrace, Mr. Frank McCourt, I'm looking your way! Remember that old saying, "Money and Blood don't mix"?? Guess not!! How can you let an organization as "storied" as the dodgers, go bankrupt???? You're a disgrace as an owner and apparently as a husband. I'm not saying your wife is innocent in this because god knows she isn't, but this falls on you my friend. My biggest problem with you and this whole situation is that the highest paid person on your payroll is..... Manny Ramirez!!! Why in the hell is this even possible?? Even though you agreed to pay him this ridiculous contract, this guy cheated and quit. I'm not a legal expert but is that not a violation of some terms within the contract?? Listen Frank, bottom line is, you're an asshole that is potential damaging one of the best sports franchises for years to come. My suggestion, sell the team to Mark Cuban. You hear a ton of weird shit about Cuban, but he always, always, makes payroll!!! Imagine being a player on the dodgers and supposed to get paid but your owner is an idiot and can't pay you!! Not only is your owner an asshole but the commissioner has done little to help you out either. How this has gone on so long is ridiculous.

In closing, Frank McCourt, FIFA, you're a bunch of assholes that not only do not know how to run your organizations, but you don't know how to relate to your fans and that's the bottom line.

This is Kyle Montgomery, and that's my two cents!

Weekend Wrap up

“Whether you think that you can, or that you can't, you are usually right.” – Henry Ford.  I couldn’t agree with this quote more.  As many of you know I ran the Philly Triathlon over the weekend.  Didn’t do too badly.  Didn’t come in last anyway.  To me it was a pretty amazing accomplishment.  A year and I half ago I was about 30-35 pounds heavier and the extent of my physical activity was a weekly softball game during which I would be drinking and having a cigarette during each half inning.  Oh yeah, not to mention the wings and more beer after the game.  I could barely run 1 mile let alone an entire triathlon.  Since then I’ve run the Broad Street Run twice (10 miles), a half-marathon, as well as the triathlon.  Not bad for someone who could not run a mile and half 2 years ago.  Sweet.  The reason I bring this up is because due to the fact that people like me aren’t necessarily built for things like triathlons, I’m beat and sore still.  We will still have the Monday 4 pack but no long rant.  So here goes.

Monday 4 Pack

Cell phone Laws

Since I’ve been working downtown this summer I’ve been able to notice how many people actually talk on their cell phones while driving.  Now I’m not going to come off holier than thou.  I’m just as guilty of this as the next person.  Not saying I should but I do.  My issue is how come it’s not enforced?  The city needs money for schools as well as other things.  Wouldn’t enforcing this law help with that?  I take the bus to 19^th and Chestnut then catch it home at 19^th and Walnut.  I work on 19^th and Market.  That’s not a huge area.  Today just on my way from the office to the bus stop I saw 5 people on phones.  (Yes I counted)  The walk took less than 10 minutes.  At $75 a piece that would be $375.  Not a lot but again that was less than 10 minutes walking a stretch of maybe 3 blocks.  Think about the size of the city or even just Center City and multiply that by many more minutes and you can see where I’m going with this.  Would this be easy to do?  Not sure but it certainly is doable and would give the city a lot of much needed money.  Think about it.

Tyler Perry

This one will be short.  This is not a racial thing.  Could someone please explain to me why/how this guy and his shows are funny?  Meet the Browns and House of Payne are horrible.  Madea is ridiculous.  Somebody please explain the joke because I certainly don’t see or get it.

Peanut Allergies

Many people are allergic to peanuts.  So much so that the dust can cause a reaction in them.  I’m not even allowed to take a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in my lunch because it could potentially cause a deadly reaction in on of the kids.  My question is how come you never hear about someone getting a reaction from a Phillies game?  I take peanuts to every game.  While I’m eating them I’m not careful of where the shells go.  What if someone in front of me was allergic to peanuts?  Just something to think about.

Nice Guys Committing Crimes

So I’m watching the news this morning and there was a shooting or robbery or something.  (Details are irrelevant to the point of this thought)  Every time someone either gets shot, shoots somebody, robs a bank, or commits some other violent crime they always interview family and neighbors.  I find it quite odd that these people all say the same thing.  “He was such a good person” or “he never did anything wrong” things of that nature.  News flash, this person just didn’t shoot somebody out of the blue.  He has done some wrong things.  He probably wasn’t that “good” of a person.  Wake up and stop pretending.  Just something else for you to think about.  Do you expect me to believe that every violent crime in Philadelphia is committed by good people?  I doubt it.   Well that’s it for today.   I could go on but it would probably be just a bunch of rambling since I’m focused on my stiff muscles.  Until next time this is Jimbo saying pass the Advil and mineral ice.  Don’t forget to find Obstructed Views on facebook and Twitter.

Weekly Annoyance.....

This will be a weekly post to hopefully generate conversation because it will be about real life everyday occurrences that we all encounter. There will be no scheduled day, it will just be when the mood strikes. It is not intended to irritate or offend anyone who feels guilty if these annoyances pertain to you, it's more informational and to let you know to, knock that shit off!!!

Weekly Annoyance #1

We all have encountered co-workers who tend to bring their bad mood from home into work with them, hell I have been guilty of this in the past as well I'm sure. Here is the problem. When you come to work in a bad mood and it trickles over to your work relationships, it makes things uncomfortable. I was told by my father when I got my first job something that sticks with me still today, "leave home at home and leave work at work". This means, your co-workers have their own problems to worry about they don't need to be burdened with yours. Conversely, your family doesn't need to be burdened with your work problems. The art of "venting" is acceptable but that's where it should end. So when it comes to bringing your personal problems to work or your work problems home, knock that shit off!!!!!

Weekly Annoyance #2

This annoyance may be a reoccurring theme since it seems to happen everyday and this annoyance is , lack of manners. Manners are defined as the unenforced act of being polite or proper. I'll keep it simple, we've all heard these words and they are tied together like "salt and pepper", "peanut butter and jelly","yin and yang", these words are " PLEASE and THANK YOU". Usually when you ask for something you use the word please, and when receive something, you say... That's right you got it, thank you!!!! It's not hard people, these few words go a long way in the concept of having manners. So next time you ask for something or receive something without saying "please" or "thank you" someone will be there to say, knock that shit off!!!!!!

Weekly Annoyance #3

This third annoyance is an ongoing one and it bothers me every time I see it, jealous people. Why be jealous??? If you want what that other person has, work your ass off like they did and obtain it the same wY. Being bitter and angry towards someone because they've got it better than you won't get you to the same place. I'm sick and tired of people thinking that the deserve the same benefits as other people even though they don't hold the same credentials. Guess what, YOU DON'T!!!!!! All the time you spend being jealous, you could be busting your ass to not only get to the same place as those who you are jealous of, but maybe, just maybe, through hard work, you may better off. So remember, there is no need for jealousy, bust your ass to get there, earn what you get, and most importantly..... knock that shit off!!!!


This is Kyle Montgomery, i'll be back next week to keep reminding you to knock that shit off!!!

Uptight, Out of Sight?

I’ve said many times and for awhile now that one of the problems we have in America is that we are too uptight.  Too uptight about sex.  Too uptight about political correctness.  Pretty much too uptight about just about anything there is to be uptight about.  This is why the whole Tracy Morgan incident really irks me.  For those of you that have had your head up your ass, at a recent comedy show in Tennessee Tracy Morgan said some “off color” remarks about gay people.  His quote was (paraphrased) that if his son was gay he better come home and talk to him like a man or he’d stab him to death.  Apparently this “offended” some people.  One of the “offended” went to Facebook to describe why he was pissed.  This led to Tracy making a “heartfelt” apology to the gay community claiming that, “I’m not a hateful person and don’t condone any kind of violence against others.”  He and the pissed off man hugged it out.  No problem right?  Uh, no.  I have a huge problem with this whole ordeal.

First of all, let me clear the air.  I do not hate gay people.  I actually support their rights to marriage and feel they should be able get the same rights as heterosexual married couples.  Shit, think about all the “straight” marriages that end in divorce.  My problem is with this guy getting his panties (no pun intended) in a bunch.  Hey pal; YOU’RE AT A TRACY MORGAN STAND UP SHOW!!!!!  What did you honestly expect?  You even said in your Facebook post that you “figured some gay jokes would fly”.  Now you’re upset?  Seriously?  I’ll admit that maybe this particular joke was a tad bit in the “gray” area but come on.  Have you ever listened to Tracy Morgan’s standup or even an interview?  The man loves his kids.  I’m 99.9% sure that if his son was gay he would not stab him to death.  It was all in the name of comedy.  Would he be a little upset or possibly disappointed?  Probably at first, then once the initial shock wore off he’d have unconditional love for his child.  Honestly I’d be the same way and I guarantee most of you would too.  Again, it was comedy and apparently from your own account the joke killed (again, no pun intended) with most in the audience.

Oh, you’re shocked that I said I, along with you would be a tad bit disappointed?  Wake up people.  Let’s not be uptight and get real for a second.  How many people say when they are about to have a baby, “I hope my son/daughter is gay”?  Exactly.  Most people say that I hope my baby is healthy and you’ve all heard the quote I hope they have all their fingers and toes.  Does that mean that if your baby has four fingers on one hand you wouldn’t be upset at first?  You’re lying if you say no.  After that initial shock you’d unconditionally love that child.  To steal the line of the late, great Bernie Mac, Tracy was just saying what we are all thinking.  Did he exaggerate?  Yes, but the message is the same.  If your child doesn’t come out the way you were expecting then you’d be thrown off a little but you’d still love them same.  Don’t be uptight America.

Tracy Morgan even said it in his apology that he is an “equal opportunity jokester”.  Meaning he got everybody.   Mr. Kevin Rogers, did you laugh at his black jokes?  How about the white ones?  Fat jokes? You get the point.  Yeah, I thought so.  Look, I’m not saying that people shouldn’t get offended.  But let’s take this in context.  You’re at a comedy show.  Comedians cross the line, that’s what they do.  Are they politically correct?  No.  That’s why they are funny.  They say shit that we normally wouldn’t in everyday conversation.  That’s what makes them funny!!!  If you were at work or at a restaurant then it’s a completely different story.  You should have known what you were getting into when you bought the ticket.  If you wanted PC comedy go on Netflix and rent a Bill Cosby DVD or go see Sinbad.  I wouldn’t go to a Kenny Chesney concert and get pissed that I heard country music so don’t go to a comedian’s show who is known for edgy comedy and get pissed that he said something edgy.

The other thing about this that irks me is the whole apology.  I’m not saying that Tracy Morgan wasn’t sorry.  He seems like the kind of person that really wants everyone to like him.  But it all seemed staged to me. To see him apologizing to the gay people he offended seems off to me.  Does Chris Rock or any other black comedian owe me an apology for making white, fat jokes?  Should every blonde or Polish person be apologized to?   Seems kind of ridiculous doesn’t it?  Yeah, I thought so.  I get political correctness.  I really do, but come on people.  We are all different.  People make fun of those differences.  If America wasn’t so uptight maybe they’d get the joke.  

Again I’m not anti-gay.  I’m anti-uptight.  Once again I agree there is a lot of hate in the world but I don’t see it at a comedy show.  People need to know their surroundings.  Hopefully this post will spark some discussion.  Hopefully some people disagree with me and feel strongly.  Hopefully strongly enough to leave a comment.  The only way we as Americans will ever stop being so uptight is to talk about all the things that “they” say that we shouldn’t.  (I sense an uptight sex post coming soon)  Let’s have a dialog and get over all of these uptight feelings.  Please.  For the sake of society.  For the sake of my sanity.  Until next time this is Jimbo saying uptight is not alright and definitely not out of sight.  Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook at Obstructed Views and Twitter @Obs_Views_Blog…..that is if I didn’t piss off all of our readers.

Dear Vancouver,

How's it going Vancouver?? So you lost the Stanley Cup to the Bruins, was rioting necessary? In case you missed it, you lost!! Acting like 2 year olds throwing a tantrum after not getting their way is not going to change that! Just a general question for you Vancouver residents, what would have happened if you won??? You recently hosted the olympics and there were no issues so why after you lose in what will be known as a great Stanley Cup finals?? Acting the way you guys did was uncalled for and it definitely did not make anyone here in the United States feel bad for you. Why is this not an ESPN story every night??? Oh, that's right, it's not Philly, Boston, or New York. Maybe you fans in Vancouver can take a little advice from a 22 year old golfer from Northern Ireland. After an epic meltdown (which your Canucks did not have) he fielded every question the media asked him and handled every moment of that press conference and press conferences that he was involved in for the next 3 weeks with the class and dignity you fans should have handled your loss. Who knows, maybe the reason he dominated the field at this past weekend's US open is fate repaying him for being a class act. Remember how you fans reacted to your loss to the New York Rangers in 1994?? Yeah, maybe this was fate getting back at you for acting like assholes then, eh?? All I'm trying to explain to you is that nobody likes to lose and if they did it would ruin the object of sports. With that being said, you fans are a disgrace to sports fans and should stick to the one thing you're good at, being the 3rd most popular vacation destination in Canada!!!!!

I'm Kyle Montgomery, and this has been my two cents, EH!!!!!

Storied Book Ending?

As I was watching Fox the other day I see a promo for the Cubs/Yankees game.  They billed it as a matchup of two storied franchises.  This got me thinking.  What exactly constitutes a “storied” franchise?  Has anyone ever sat down and thought about this?  When I think storied franchises  the Yankees, Dodgers, Lakers, Celtics, etc. come to mind, but the Cubs?  Hmmmmmmm.  Let’s dissect this a bit.

What defines a storied franchise?  Dictionary.com defines storied as – adjective - recorded or celebrated in history or story.  Ok.  I see Yankees, Dodgers, Lakers, Celtics, Red Sox, Canadians, Red Wings, Packers, Steelers, Cowboys (kills me to say that) as “storied” franchises.  They are the first teams you think of when you think of their respective leagues, whether you like them or not.  Still not sure where the Cubs fit in to this?  What celebrated history do they have?  Nerds with walkmans and Billy Goats?  I also think that the teams I listed above would universally be considered “storied”.  What do they have in common?

1.  Longevity – All of those teams have been around since or pretty close to the beginning of their respective leagues.

2. Multiple titles across multiple generations – Most of those teams have won titles across multiple generations (except possibly the Red Sox but more at that later)

3. Worldwide presence – Ask any fan around the world and most of these teams would be the first named if asked about their respective leagues.

4. Talented/Popular players – These teams have had some of the most talented (Hall of Fame) and most popular (future Hall of Fame) players in the history of their respective leagues.

5. Love/Hate Fan bases – Fans either live and die with these teams or absolutely despise them.  There is no in between.  These teams also pick up the “casual” sports enthusiasts. (i.e. Dallas being “America’s Team”)

Now, we could argue this criteria list (please feel free to do so on the comment board) but for now let’s go with this.  Now will every team fit every category?  No.  The Red Sox were long suffering for their first World Series title since 1918.  The Red Sox did however make it to the brink of a title numerous times, only to have it snatched from them.  I’d say you have to at least hit 4 out of 5. 

Let’s see how the Cubs stack up? 

1. Longevity – The Cubs have been around since 1876 making them one of the oldest franchises in Major League Baseball.  Check.

2. Multiple Titles across Multiple Generations – Seriously?  Do we really have to go there?  Sorry Cubs fans, division titles don’t count.  Your last World Series title was pre-WWI and your last World Series appearance was near the end of WWII.  100% without a doubt no check.

3. Worldwide presence – In a recent survey (2010) the Cubs were the 19^th most popular franchise in the world.  Huh?  Despite my perception and what I believe I will reluctantly give them a check……must be the Europeans.

4. Talented/popular players – The Cubs have had some very talented and popular players.  Ernie Banks, Ryne Sandberg, Ferguson Jenkins, etc.  Ernie Banks was known as Mr. Cub.  Is that something to be proud of?  Sorry Cubbie fans, compared to the other teams on this list, you just don’t stack up.  I award you no check and may Bartman have mercy on your soul.  Truth is, if you are around long enough, the law of averages say you are bound to get some good players eventually.  Just like a blind squirrel is bound to find a nut.

5. Love/Hate fan bases – Once again I’m going to have to argue that the Cubs (as usually is the case with their players) strike out with the game on the line.  Sure there are fans in Chicago but recently the Cubs haven’t even been able to sell out Wrigley.  I’m a diehard Phillies fan (as well as a diehard Philadelphia sports fan).  Everyone knows that Philadelphia fans are known for booing and hating on other teams.  I can honestly say that at a recent Sunday game I didn’t feel any hatred towards the Cubs or their fans I saw.  Furthermore, am I supposed to feel sorry for you because you haven’t won?  Until 2008 the last title I saw was in 1983….when I was 4.  You had the Bulls.  Sorry Chi Town.  No check for you.  At least you have Kanye.

So that’s 2 out of 5 Checks.  Much like your winning percentage this year, .400 is not going to cut it.  This still doesn’t answer the question though.  Why are the Cubs considered “storied”? Is it because they play in a historic stadium?  I don’t think so.  People go to see Wrigley not the Cubs.  Is it because they are lovable losers?  This name really irks me.  Since when do we celebrate losers?  Isn’t this a problem that is hurting society anyway?  Why reward sucking?  Sure it’s kind of comical the way they lose sometimes but it’s not the same as the Red Sox.  You almost felt bad for them or rooted against them when they were losing.  The Cubs?  Again, who cares?  The Cubs have not been relevant since Balki Bartokomous was walking the streets of Chi town doing the Dance of Joy with Cousin Larry.  If losing makes you “storied” then the Phillies should be the most “storied” franchise in the entire world.  I dare you to name another team that has lost more games?  With the possible exception of the Washington Generals?  According to this logic the “storied” franchise list would now include the Bengals, Arizona Cardinals, Clippers, Atlanta Thrashers, Kansas City Royals, Washington Nationals, and Cleveland Indians.  "Remember, fans, Tuesday is Die Hard Night. Free admission for anyone who was actually alive the last time the Indians won the pennant." - Harry Doyle.  I would even argue that Cubs are not even the most “storied” franchise in Chicago.  Besides, who’s afraid of a Cub any way?  So in conclusion Cubs are lovable and cute at the zoo.  Sure Bartman and the curse of the Billy Goat are kind of amusing, but cute, lovable and amusing DO NOT make you “storied”.  Sorry Cubs fans but look on the bright side, there’s always next year…….

Monday Evening 4 pack

U.S. Open

The United States Open was played this past weekend.  Rory McIlroy won it in historic fashion winning by 8 strokes and posted a -16.  I’d like to give a shout out to how classy a guy Rory is.  Despite his epic meltdown at the Master’s, he answered every question and made no excuses.  As he was tearing up Congressional Country Club he was again bombarded with questions about the meltdown and then ultimately comparing his run to that of Tiger Woods.  All Rory did was conduct himself with class and answered every question.  Cheers to you Mr. McIlroy.  Have a pint on me my friend

NFL Lockout

I haven’t mentioned much about the lockout recently because quite frankly right now, I could give a shit.  Is the lockout affecting me right now?  No.  Do I really think that it will last long enough to cancel any games?  No. (Neither side is that stupid…are they?)  Some guys in my ticket group bitched about Jeff Lurie keeping our money and collecting interest right now.  News flash.  Lockout or not they’d still have our money and still would be collecting interest.  This is a boring time during the NFL season.  I really don’t care about secret meetings, lawyers, judges’ rulings, or any other of the he said he said stuff that is going on.  When September 8^th comes and I go to watch Green Bay and New Orleans play and they’re not there, then I’ll worry.  Until then, please spare me the blah blah blah.  Go Phillies!

Weiner

I see that Congressman Weiner resigned.  I just hope it was the decision that he and his wife came to and wasn’t the pressure put on by the other idiots in Congress.  Again, who cares what the man does in his personal life.  I hope it all works out for Mr. Weiner.  By the way, seriously this is his name, and he got in trouble for taking pictures of his….well you see where I’m going with this.  Leave the man alone ladies and gentleman of Congress.  Judging by the state of our country I think you have far more serious things to be concerned about.

Sugar Tax

Well after all the pomp and circumstance I see that the wonderful city council of Philadelphia voted against the sugar tax instead in favor of a one year property tax hike.  What?  So after all that bitching and moaning the “poor” people of Philadelphia are safe.  Hell, so are the rich.  Guess as usual it’s us working class schlubs that have to foot the bill.  Incredible. 

Well there you have it.  Like us on facebook at Obstructed Views and follow us on Twitter @Obs_Views_Blog
Until next time this is Jimbo saying take care and brush your hair.

Somebody's gotta say it......

Ok, let me first preface this by saying that the comments and points of view that are shared on this blog are just opinions and are not meant to offend anyone or upset them. With that being said, if it does offend you and/or upset you, that may mean that you should take a long look in the mirror and reevaluate your daily routines.

Now, I first want to start off by saying that I am not the most attractive person in the world and I have never claimed to  be. Knowing this, I will not put myself in a situation where it could make my personal appearance worse. This is why it boggles my mind that there are overweight people, (maybe the same people that have such a huge problem with the soda tax my brother was talking about) that insist on wearing tighter clothes than they should. I know in these hard economic times that it is cheaper to try to squeeze into those clothes you have had from 10 years ago, than to buy clothes that actually fit, I get it. I just ask that these people may do us all a favor, since we have to look at it too, and double check your appearance before leaving the house, that's all. Now I do not mean any disrespect by saying this, just stating my opinion.

This leads me to my next person, we all know who they are. Big Mac, Large Fry, apple pie and a .........DIET COKE!!! Really????? Now i know there are some people that can't stand regular soda because of the sugar and I get that, but for those that are drinking the diet coke in hopes of disguising the 3,000 other calories they are eating . All I can say to to you is ......... SHAME!!!!!!! Shame on you for holding up the line and embarrassing yourself with ordering the diet coke. It is not going to stop you from putting on 5lbs during one eating session. All it is going to do is make you feel less guilty for stuffing your face. C'mon, next time just order the Large Milkshake like we all know you want to. Again, I do not mean to disrespect or upset anyone, I'm just stating my opinion.

Last but not least, I want to talk about the "die-hard" sports fan, that can't name 5 players on their favorite team. Seriously??? You talk so much shit about how good your team is, "We're going to win this, We're going to do that" it makes me sick. Last time I checked, you're not on the team genius, so stop with all the "WE" shit. Also, if you were such a fan, you should be able to name at least the starters on the team and not just the 1 superstar. It makes me sick because I have been a Philadelphia Sports fan since I was a little kid. Now that the Phillies have had some extended success, there are millions of phillies fans. Do any of these fans remember the days that caused us to be the only sports franchise in sports with 10,000 losses??? The 67-95 1996 Phillies, or the much improved team the next year who went 68-94. I'm not knocking you for being fans, by all means, just as I'm writing this very passionate and  opinionated blog, you are entitled to the team you want to follow. All I ask is that you have a little knowledge of the team you call "My Favorite Team". No more "we did it" because remember, you're not on the team. There are a ton of knowledgeable fans out there and I respect them for what they bring to the table. There are just fans that embody this characteristic and it pisses me off.

There was just a few things that I had to get off my chest today. I appreciate you reading and as always, this is Kyle Montgomery, and this has been my two cents.

You are entitled to......

The blog has been up and running for a few days now and all seems to be going well.  Kyle has been chiming in with his “2 cents”.    I’d like for more people to comment and have some discussions.  If anyone wants to get in contact with us e-mail us at montyobv@gmail.com   

 Now for today’s thought.  As I’m watching the news this morning all of the talk about the soda tax has me thinking.  (Yes apparently this is my pet peeve.  Another reason why I need to enter politics) Why do the people of this country feel so entitled?  They keep saying that this soda tax will hurt the “poorest people” in Philadelphia.  Huh?  So now soda and sugary drinks are part of a balanced diet?  They are a necessity for people to live?  Apparently these people feel entitled to be able to buy these drinks.  (Which no one is saying that they can’t)  Let’s dissect a bit shall we? 

Now I didn’t grow up rich by any stretch of the imagination and we certainly weren’t poor.  We were a typical middle class family.  There were some stretches that were rough and others that were much better.  What does this have to do with anything you ask?  Well, we knew there were certain things that were “privileges”.  If there wasn’t enough money for non-essentials like “soda” then we went without.  You mean to tell me that these “poor” people in Philadelphia depend on soda and sugary drinks to survive?  I’m not buying it.  Sure they may be cheaper but here’s a thought, maybe you’re fat and have diabetes because all you drink is soda?  But I digress.  So where do these attitudes come from?  I feel it’s a deep rooted sense of entitlement.  Everyone feels they are entitled to everything and anything.  Truth is a lot of these people probably don’t know what they are bitching about.  So where does the sense of entitlement come from?  I have my thoughts.  It comes down to bad parenting. 

Somewhere between the end of the baby boomer generation (1960-1962 ish) and today (Gen X and Y) there has been a drastic change in parenting.  I’m not sure what caused this change, maybe it was the late boomers and Gen X and Gen Y trying to “be different than” their parents.  Maybe it was an increase in both parents entering the workforce.  Maybe it was just plain apathy (a characteristic of Gen X and Gen Y).  Either way, parents are just different.  The question becomes is the bad parenting a reflection of society or is society a reflection of bad parenting? 

 The biggest part of the bad parenting is just an overall lack of discipline.  This I feel is where the entitlement comes in.  When I was a kid and I did something wrong I knew there was a consequence.  I’m not talking about a “time-out”.  What is that?  Are we playing basketball?  I mean a legitimate, hit ‘em where it hurts consequence. (Not literally hitting….all the time anyway….)  I know what you’re thinking, but there’s a difference between discipline and beating.  I see nothing wrong with a little smack.  I do see a problem with a child getting beat because the parent had a bad day.  It’s not just smacking or hitting a kid though.  Some consequences I received were not talking on the phone, not being able to go out, no TV, etc.  There’s none of that today.  The parent that disciplines their kid is the exception today.   

Kids aren't scared of or do they respect their parents or any adult for that matter.  They don't get punished. Or if they do they get sent to their rooms.  I’d love to have been sent to my room as a kid with TV, computer, video games, cell phone, etc.  Or they are told you can’t go outside.  What?  These kids don’t want to go out anyway so where is the punishment?  (The kids are fat and out of shape, maybe the consequence should be you must exercise 2 hours a day?  But again, I digress).  The kids walk all over and don’t respect their parents and that carries over to their everyday life.  This also leads to the sense of entitlement.  The parent gives the kid everything they want and the kid does nothing to earn it so they feel they are entitled to everything.  News flash, it doesn’t work that way in real life.

I feel a lot of parents try to be their kid's “friend”.  This is where the problem begins.  You are a parent not a friend.  They try to not hurt their kid’s feelings or upset them.  Huh?  Again, this leads to the sense of entitlement.  Society as a whole is actually a part of this problem.  T-ball games with no winners or losers, everyone getting a trophy, no one getting cut, treating all kids like they are equal, blaming ADD or some other ailment for your problems?  Ridiculous.  Guess what kids? You are ALL different.  That’s life.  When you go on an interview your potential employer won’t care if you have ADD or a learning disability.  They won’t say you’re a nice person so we’ll just give you a job.  They certainly won't try to "spare" your feelings.    Life isn’t fair and the sooner you all realize that the better off you’ll be.  Again, get off your ass and do something.  Stop whining about how “unfair” it is and do something about it.  Parents, this is all your fault.  By coddling these kids you are in a sense creating the monster.  Maybe you feel bad because you weren't coddled?  Guess what?  Suck it up and get over it.  You're making society worse by feeling sorry for yourself and thus coddling your kids.  This is why people feel entitled.    

From birth these kids are told they are great.  They are the best.   That’s all well and good.  I’m not saying to tell your kid they suck but please be realistic.  Not every kid is going to be a great athlete, a great musician, or a doctor.  Help your kids set realistic goals and encourage them to achieve them…..themselves.  By giving them everything they need you’re only feeding into the sense of entitlement.  Guess what?  The world doesn’t owe you shit.  You know who are the people that are making it in the world?  The ones that are going out and making it happen.  Not the ones waiting for things to be given to them or bitching because the world owes them something.  My dad told me early on; the chances of you making it to MLB, the NFL, etc. are very slim.  He didn’t discourage me from trying but told me realistically to have a backup plan.  Go to college that way if it doesn’t work out or god forbid you get hurt you have a job and some type of skills to help you.  Guess what?  I don't feel entitled.  In fact I'd say I've done pretty well for myself.

Our government also plays a role in this entitlement………………I’ll get into that another time though.  I could go on and on about that, but we'll save that for another time.  Well this went from a sugar tax to bad parenting but I guess that’s how it goes sometimes.  Please feel free to make a comment at the bottom of the blog and we can start a dialog.  Also feel free to comment on the overall appearance, content, or anything else about the blog.  Until next time this is Jimbo saying you are entitled to read my blog.  See you next time.

Lebron James

First things first, he's not Jordan, never will be. Neither will Kobe be like MJ but that's another story. Lebron did not make his teammates better in the NBA finals and they got beat by a better "TEAM". They were not as talented as the Heat, but they played better as a "TEAM". Lebron's comments afterwards I have no problem with and here is why, he's right. I woke up yesterday with the same personal issues I had the day before, and he woke up in his mansion. SO WHAT!!!!! I Cant stand the media and the public caring what these athletes do or say 24/7. If its not effecting your life personally, stop crying!!!!!! I'm tired of everyone hating him for his decision to leave Cleveland. He handled it wrong yes, but get over it. We all still love Reggie White in Philly even though he went to Green Bay and won a title. It's sports, it happens. I could care less if Lebron gets 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 or even 8 titles, he will never be better than Jordan, FACT!!!! Lebron has the athletic ability and talent to be in the conversation but he has to learn how to play the game. D Wade has the killer instinct that Bron Bron is lacking. I also understand that once the Stanley Cup finals are done and now that the NBA Finals are done, it's just baseball. That means ESPN will dedicate 20 minutes every sportscenter to Bron Bron. What he ate, when he shit, where he went, who he's with, who his mom is with (too soon?) and so on. ESPN needs to get off Bron Bron's nuts and face the fact that he will never be Jordan, EVER!!! Jordan would have never let his team squander 4th quarter, double digit leads in the finals, TWICE!!!! Jordan would have never said, " The man upstairs know when it's my time, and it's not my time" (Lebron's grammar, not mine). Jordan was so competitive and so dominant, he left the NBA to play baseball!! I don't know if you're listening Bron Bron, but the Marlins are slumping, maybe you could try your hand at baseball?!?!?! All I can say is get ready for another summer filled with What Will Bron Bron Do Next!! It will air each night on ESPN at 6pm Est.

This is Kyle Montgomery, and that's my two cents.

Dear Plaxico Burress,

Oh, I think it's time to talk about the former Superbowl game winning touchdown receiver. Good for you, Plax, you're out of jail and things seem to be going good right now. You will soon have plenty of NFL teams begging for your services at wide receiver and you will attempt to gain back some of the credibility you had before you....... SHOT YOURSELF IN THE LEG!!!!! Let's not forget how stupid that was!!!! I know you went to jail for not having that handgun licensed, but no one would have known unless you shot yourself in the leg!! By the way, who goes to the club wearing sweatpants???? I'm glad you learned a lesson and I definitely do not condone what you did because it could have harmed someone innocent, however, I am going to stick up for you a little bit here. Although what you did was reckless and dangerous, there is no excuse for you getting more jail time than Dante Stallworth, who was charged, and pleaded guilty to DUI manslaughter and killed a human!!!!!! Plaxico, I will tell you this as we all move forward. We all know that you will be looking to go to a contender in hopes of winning another super bowl. Do us all a favor along the way. Drop the act. If you truly cared about gun responsibility, you wouldn't have shot yourself in the leg my friend. Tony Dungy helped Mike Vick get on the right track and I see you followed the same procedure and have him as your "mentor" too. Why is it that you need a mentor now after you shot yourself in the leg and did jail time?? You're in your mid 30's bro, time to grow up. Remember that old saying, if you're scared, get a dog, don't walk around with a gun and accidentally shoot yourself.......IDIOT!!!! Best of luck to you as you attempt your comeback, but try not to do anything stupid.

My name is Kyle Montgomery and this has been my two cents.

We'll do it and we'll do it live

My brother and I have been talking for some time about starting a blog.  It never really went past there....until now.  After talking with my lovely fiance I've decided to start writing more.  Its something I love and something I think I'm pretty good at.  I have quite the following when I write my fantasy football recaps.

I know what you're thinking, "what an arrogant prick.  Why would he think anyone would care about what he has to say?"  Well you're reading this right now aren't you?  So SHUT UP!  I'm sure at some point my brother will also be joining in the writing.  I'm not sure what format of this thing will be yet.  Just when I have something to say I'll post.  Maybe a few times a week, maybe a few times a month.  I'm not sure, I figure I'll take it as it goes.  Hopefully people will read it and enjoy it.  I'm sure I (we) will say things that you disagree with and that's fine.  There may even be a time or two that you agree.  I'm pretty sure you can comment on the blog and we can get discussions going.  If not then so be it.  You're still reading at this point though so that's a plus.

Monday Evening 4 pack

There's a few things going on right now that have been bothering me.  The Monday evening 4 pack will be brief discussion of what's on my mind.  Maybe it will be a regular feature, maybe this will be the last time you see it.  I don't know but we will go from there.

NBA Finals

The NBA Finals ended last night with the Mavericks defeating the Miami Heat.  Usually I'm not a real big NBA fan.  I'd much rather watch college basketball, but I found myself intrigued by this entire series.  Truthfully not because I had a rooting interest in either team but instead to see the Heat lose.  Usually I tend not to be a hater but I definitely smiled when I saw that the Mavs won (obviously this morning since I fell asleep at halftime.)  I'm not sure why I wanted Miami to lose so bad.  Honestly, when Boston signed their big 3 I wasn't that upset.  Maybe it was because Garnett, Pierce, and Allen aren't douchebags?  Listen, I'm fine with Lebron spurning Cleveland to go to Miami to play with Bosh and Wade, but do we really need the whole decision one hour special?  Seriously, how pompous.  (Not quite as pompous as assuming people want to read your blog)  Plus the mocking of Dirk after Game 5 was very childish.  Hell if you had won that game it would have been a dick move but you lost.  Lebron is a hell of player who may win a few titles down the road.  In the clutch during this series though he came up small.  Until he gets that monkey off his back, he will have his haters.  Jordan you are not my friend.

Anthony Weiner 

So the man texted a few "compromising" pictures.  I honestly don't see what the issue is.  Sure its creepy but honestly there are so many worse things that politicians have done.  I don't think he should have to resign.  He has to answer to his wife but what business is it of ours?  Besides, it shows that the man is human.  What the hell am I talking about you ask?  Well be real for a second.  Everyone has their own perverted fantasies or vices.  Everyone.  Some people cross dress, some jerk-off to Internet porn, some get off on sexting, and some do things way worse that I don't or even want to know about.  These people are your neighbors, co-workers and even are in your family.  Who are we to judge?  Sexting is only able to happen due to technology.  Back in the day in was phone sex, then cyber sex, now the technology allows for pictures/videos to be sent.  To me its an issue between he and his wife.  I definitely don't think he should have to resign his job.  Many politicians have done way worse and be able to continue to work.  Again, to me it shows be he is a human being just like me. (I've never sexted though)  Last time I checked our congressmen are supposed to represent real people.  There are real people who sext, where women's underwear, and troll the Internet for free porn.  I say kudos Mr. Weiner.  Keep on keeping on.  Let's just hope your wife is down with it.


Philadelphia's proposed sugar tax

Am I missing something here?  How can anyone oppose this tax?  The School District needs the money badly.  From my understanding the tax will equate to about 2 cents per soda.  Wah!  Seriously?  This is going to cost people jobs?  The "poor" people of Philadelphia should be outraged?  Well here's a thought, if you can't afford 2 cents for a soda or gatorade or whatever, there's a new invention out and every home has it.  Water.  If you go to your kitchen sink and turn on the faucet a refreshing, clear liquid comes out that will satisfy your thirst like no other.  I know the soda tax is racist.  The soda tax is the government trying to tell us how to live.  The soda tax is bad for the people in the city.  Well let me respond.  First, the soda tax will affect everyone the same white, black, or latino.  Poor is poor no matter what your race.  Second, I drink and smoke.  The government taxes the shit out of cigs and beer.  If I couldn't afford it I wouldn't buy them.  Its not the government trying to tell me how to live.  its just they know I'll buy.  Same here.  Bad for the city?  If the school district doesn't get money then we will have uneducated kids on the streets because teachers will be laid off.  So please, anyone, tell me how this is bad?

Phillies

Last one will be short and sweet.  In case you haven't noticed the Phillies have the best record in baseball.  Listening to some fans and those in the media you'd think they were 7 games behind.  Sure it hasn't been pretty but they are doing what Championship teams do.....finding ways to win.  Here that Lebron?  Finding ways to win, not disappearing or playing scared.  Now that Chase is back the offense seems to picking up slightly and with the pitching staff having 2 early Cy Young candidates, it should be a fun summer.  Lebron, there still is a little room on the bandwagon if you want to hop on.  Just saying.

Well there you have it.  Not sure what's going to put on this page.  Sometimes it will be funny, sometimes political.  You may agree, you may not.  Feel free to comment.  If you were offended by anything I wrote, my bad.  Until next time this is Jimbo saying, if you're still reading this then you were interested.  See you next time.