THE THIRD DAY of the NFL Draft was sort of anticlimactic for me. For the three days, the Dolphins wound up drafting about four linebackers, a defensive lineman, an offensive lineman and two defensive backs. And I had never heard of any of them before Thursday.
This may be a great draft, or it may be a stinker. There's no way to tell.
It was interesting that the Dolphins announced that Randy Starks will be moved to nose guard. That came out of left field. I wonder why they didn't do that when Jason Ferguson was hurt last year.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
Second day
THE DOLPHINS STILL haven't picked anyone I'd heard of before the NFL Draft. Jared Odrick (Penn State DE) yesterday and Koa Misi (Utah LB) today. Misi fills a need at rush linebacker, but I wonder what they were thinking with Odrick. Unless Odrick can play nose guard, they still need a nose guard and a safety.
Here's a Palm Beach story on why the Dolphins picked Odrick in the first round. Sounds like he could play nose guard.
They have a third-round pick left tonight and several picks tomorrow. Some of those guys probably won't make the team.
They did it again, drafting John Jerry (Ole Miss OG), another player I'd never heard of. And they still need a nose guard and a safety. Sigh. I hope he's a good guard.
Here's a Palm Beach story on why the Dolphins picked Odrick in the first round. Sounds like he could play nose guard.
They have a third-round pick left tonight and several picks tomorrow. Some of those guys probably won't make the team.
They did it again, drafting John Jerry (Ole Miss OG), another player I'd never heard of. And they still need a nose guard and a safety. Sigh. I hope he's a good guard.
What happened?
I'M STILL TRYING to digest what happened in the first round of the NFL Draft. Jimmy Clausen, Mel Kiper's boy, wasn't drafted. Tim Tebow, not Mel's boy, went 25th to Denver. To Kiper's credit, he said he'll root for Tebow even though he hadn't pegged him to go that high.
My team, the Dolphins, picked a Penn State defensive tackle I never heard of, Jared Odrick. I'm still looking for information on him.
The Raiders took a responsible pick (LB Rolando McClain, Alabama), which surprised me. I expected something off the wall.
The 49ers did a nice job with two solid offensive linemen.
I'm curious to see where Colt McCoy (Texas) and Clausen (Notre Dame) go today. And who the Dolphins take.
My team, the Dolphins, picked a Penn State defensive tackle I never heard of, Jared Odrick. I'm still looking for information on him.
The Raiders took a responsible pick (LB Rolando McClain, Alabama), which surprised me. I expected something off the wall.
The 49ers did a nice job with two solid offensive linemen.
I'm curious to see where Colt McCoy (Texas) and Clausen (Notre Dame) go today. And who the Dolphins take.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Talking baseball: Phil will wait
Years ago, my friend Todd and I were rushing to Atlanta for a Braves game, and we were late. To calm him down, I told him that Phil Niekro would hold the first pitch until we got there. It quickly became a game for us.
Phil will wait.
We drove about 80 miles from western South Carolina, got through Atlanta, paid our parking fee, rushed up and bought outfield tickets, and ran to our seats in centerfield.
Niekro, rubbing the ball in his glove, turned to us and appeared satisfied that we were there. Then he turned toward the plate to throw the game's first pitch.
Play ball!
(Not surprisingly, the first pitch was a knuckleball.)
******
I first became a baseball fan in 1969. The folks I knew in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia were making fun of the Baltimore Orioles, who had won a ton of games that year but lost to the New York Mets in the World Series.The O's were considered failures, even though they lost to a team that won 100 games in the regular season. So I became an Orioles fan.
I remember the great satisfaction when I got on the school bus in October of 1970 and heard that the O's had beaten the Cincinnati Reds four games to one in the Series.
******
I just learned that Mickey Mantle hit his 500th career home run against the Orioles in 1967. You can see it on YouTube.It was hard for an O's fan to watch the Yankee fans celebrating, but I liked Mantle, too.
******
The Orioles' recent season ended with a thud, as they lost to the Royals in four straight. In fact, my favorite National League team, the St. Louis Cardinals, lost to the eventual champions, the San Francisco Giants. Ironically, I went into the playoffs hoping the Orioles and Cards wouldn't play in the World Series. No chance of that.It was a terrible end to a great season. Now I'm looking forward to March.
******
I've enjoyed the Baltimore Orioles' season immensely, as they recently swept the Detroit Tigers in the divisional round of the American League playoffs. They'll play the Royals in the AL championship series.I was trying to remember the last time I enjoyed the Orioles this much. It had to be 1983, the last time they won the World Series. I was so happy then that I didn't know what to do.
I've rooted for the Orioles since they lost to the Mets in the 1969 World Series. They've been to the World Series four times since then, and I've come away happy twice (1970 and '83).
******
I was a big fan of Mickey Mantle when I was a kid; that was pretty common. All of the black kids who lived nearby swore by Willie Mays. We were both right, I guess. They were terrific baseball players.
There's a story in the NY Times today about Mantle. The writer had met Mantle years ago and was disillusioned by the man, who was nothing like the legend. She wound up writing a book about him, and I'm interested in reading it.
I can understand her feelings. As a former sports writer, I've met a few of my heroes, and they often weren't what I expected. Sadly.
******
It appeared that a batted ball hit Beurhle on the leg and bounced toward foul territory. Beurhle ran past the Cleveland Indians baserunner, snagged the ball with his glove (on his right hand) and flipped it between his legs to the first baseman, who caught it with his bare hand.
It might have been the best play I've ever seen. It'll be hard to beat that on highlight reels.
******
I never realized there was so much to know about the on-deck circle until I read this story in the N.Y. Times. Some major leaguers stay in the on-deck circle, and others stray far from it.I like the idea used by little leaguers; have the guy in the on-deck circle face the batter's back. Less chance of getting hurt.
I do wonder, though, how much advantage a hitter can get by moving closer to the catcher. If it weren't an advantage, they wouldn't do it.
******
If you're a baseball fan, you might check out the Baseball Almanac online. I didn't realize that someone hit 36 triples in a season (Chief Wilson) or 309 triples in a career (Sam Crawford). Wow! Two American Leaguers had 26 triples in a season, Crawford and "Shoeless" Joe Jackson.By the way, I just found this quote about Jackson: "I copied (Shoeless Joe) Jackson's style because I thought he was the greatest hitter I had ever seen, the greatest natural hitter I ever saw. He's the guy who made me a hitter." - Babe Ruth
******
My friend Todd and I were sitting in centerfield at Fulton County Stadium, and we were rooting for the players we could see best, centerfielders Brett Butler of the Braves and George Hendrick of the Cardinals.They were both good centerfielders, but Hendrick was slightly distracted.
At one point, Hendrick was leaning against the wall and talking to some girls in the outfield seats. Suddenly, we all heard the crack of the bat! Hendrick turned, said something we couldn't hear and raced toward the infield. He made a diving catch near the infield, turning a little flare to the outfield into an adventure.
Butler took a more traditional approach to playing the outfield.
According to Wikipedia, the 60-year-old Hendrick is a coach for the Tampa Bay Rays. In 1997, Butler released an autobiography called Field of Hope: An Inspiring Autobiography of a Lifetime of Overcoming Odds.
******
I saw a story the other day on the greatest centerfielders ever, and they listed Willie Mays, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, Junior Griffey and Jim Edmunds. Great defensive players all, but I'd add the Orioles' Paul Blair and the Cardinals' (and Orioles') Andy Van Slyke.It's hard to name just five of anything when you're talking about baseball. Now, with catchers, I'd start with Johnny Bench and add...
******
In the 1970s, I was watching a baseball game in my room, and my mother came in and asked who was pitching. She wouldn't have known more than one or two pitchers, and they would have had to be Baltimore Orioles.
I'm an O's fan, but the Orioles weren't playing. I think it was the Astros and Reds.
"It's Joaquin Andujar and Santo Alcala," I said absentmindedly.
"You're kidding," she replied.
"Do you think I could make up names like Joaquin Andujar and Santo Alcala?" said I.
*******
I always knew that Bob Feller was a special baseball player, even though I never saw him pitch. Because of his age (92), I'd been expecting him to die for awhile; he finally did today.
I knew that Rapid Robert threw three no-hitters for the Cleveland Indians, but I learned today that he threw the only no-hitter on opening day.
EMAIL: tgilli52@gmail.com TWITTER: EDITORatWORK
MORE BLOG ENTRIES BY TOM GILLISPIE
ANECDOTES BY TOM GILLISPIE
EDITOR@WORK BLOG ENTRIES
ENTRIES FROM THE DOG BLOG
(a book of great stories about the Intimidator)
(the book of great NASCAR stories)
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Magazine markets
Australian fantasy and science fiction magazine. Looking for science fiction, fantasy or horror short stories between 2000 and 8000 words. Pays $20 to $60 per 1,000 words, but assume the lower rate for unsolicited submissions. Open to submissions during two reading periods: Feb. 1 to April 7 and Aug. 1 to Oct. 31.
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We have no hard-and-fast editorial guidelines, because science fiction is such a broad field that I don't want to inhibit a new writer's thinking by imposing Thou Shalt Nots. Besides, a really good story can make an editor swallow his preconceived taboos.
Basically, we publish science fiction stories. That is, stories in which some aspect of future science or technology is so integral to the plot that, if that aspect were removed, the story would collapse. Try to picture Mary Shelley's Frankenstein without the science and you'll see what I mean. No story!
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Cruising Word publishes articles about live-aboard sailing, sailboat chartering, cruising destinations, and gear. They pay $25 to $1,000 per article. There guidelines are not freelancer friendly. For example, they ask that you submit an article exclusively to them, but do not state a time frame to expect a response. To learn more, read their submission guidelines.
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EatingWell prefers pitches via e-mail. Our staff is small, so it may take up to a month to get a response from an editor. If after a couple of weeks you don’t hear from us, we welcome a friendly follow-up e-mail. Describe your idea in two to three paragraphs. Be sure to explain “why now” and tell us where the story fits into the magazine. Share a bit (just a few sentences will do) about your experience: What other publications do you write for? What story topics interest you most? Please do not attach clips (we’ll request them if we want them); rather, sell us with great writing in your pitch. Even if your idea doesn’t “hit,” if your pitch is well-packaged (specifically for EatingWell) and written in a compelling way, we’ll be impressed—and likely to keep you in mind for future assignments.
Georgia Magazine According to the web site, it is the “most widely read magazine for about about Georgians.” (think Atlanta or Augusta, not the country.) They celebrate the people of Georgia, as well as Georgian history. Pay starts at $500 for features. To learn more, read their submission guidelines.
Harper's
Writers wishing to submit nonfiction to Harper’s Magazine are invited to send queries to the address below, accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The magazine will neither consider nor return unsolicited nonfiction manuscripts.
Harper’s will consider unsolicited fiction. Unsolicited poetry will not be considered or returned.
All fiction submissions and nonfiction queries must be sent by mail to:
Harper’s Magazine
666 Broadway, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10012
666 Broadway, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10012
A
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2003, Narrative is
dedicated to advancing literary arts in the digital age by supporting
the finest writing talent and encouraging readership across
generations, in schools, and around the globe. Our online library of
new literature by celebrated authors and by the best new and emerging
writers is available for free.
National
Geographic Traveler
is
the world’s most widely read travel magazine. Through powerful
storytelling and photography, each issue inspires curious readers
with stories that show the transformative power of travel. Go beyond
the usual tourist fare for authentic experiences—many from a
local’s point of view—with expert advice and tips for travel that
is sustainable and smart.
Northern Virginia Magazine
As with any potential job, prospective writers should do their homework. Pick up a few issues of the magazine and identify our style as well as the kinds of stories we typically publish. First and foremost, we seek profile stories (1500-1800 words) with interviews of the region’s most prominent or notable figures. Immediate attention will be paid to queries aiming to spotlight these individuals in a way that is both current and relevant to the region. Do not come to us with a story “idea” without the resources to execute it. If you want to write a profile on Mr. Prominent CEO in the region, you better have access to Mr. CEO. Contributors who are unable or unwilling to conduct interviews in person are better served elsewhere.
Old Liquors magazine
Hey there, we are looking for great content for our website Old Liquors Magazine. Think Buzzfeed meets Robb Report, Punch, Liquor.com, Decanter and Whisky Advocate. We are ambitious and are looking for equally ambitious contributors in the field of Fine Spirits and Wines, Travel, Men’s Fashion, Cars, Yachts, Private Jets, Jewellery, Watches and other related lifestyle subjects.
Orion magazine
The Orion Nature Quarterly was founded in 1982 as a program of the Myrin Institute, a private operating foundation based in New York. The magazine quickly won a devoted readership and became known for its grounding in literature, the arts, and a philosophical exploration of how we live with the natural world.
Northern Virginia Magazine
As with any potential job, prospective writers should do their homework. Pick up a few issues of the magazine and identify our style as well as the kinds of stories we typically publish. First and foremost, we seek profile stories (1500-1800 words) with interviews of the region’s most prominent or notable figures. Immediate attention will be paid to queries aiming to spotlight these individuals in a way that is both current and relevant to the region. Do not come to us with a story “idea” without the resources to execute it. If you want to write a profile on Mr. Prominent CEO in the region, you better have access to Mr. CEO. Contributors who are unable or unwilling to conduct interviews in person are better served elsewhere.
Old Liquors magazine
Hey there, we are looking for great content for our website Old Liquors Magazine. Think Buzzfeed meets Robb Report, Punch, Liquor.com, Decanter and Whisky Advocate. We are ambitious and are looking for equally ambitious contributors in the field of Fine Spirits and Wines, Travel, Men’s Fashion, Cars, Yachts, Private Jets, Jewellery, Watches and other related lifestyle subjects.
Orion magazine
The Orion Nature Quarterly was founded in 1982 as a program of the Myrin Institute, a private operating foundation based in New York. The magazine quickly won a devoted readership and became known for its grounding in literature, the arts, and a philosophical exploration of how we live with the natural world.
Poets & Writers
Available by subscription and on newsstands of most major bookstores, Poets & Writers Magazine reaches a national audience of 100,000 readers from emerging to established literary writers. The magazine has a strong following among both students and faculty in creative writing programs across the country. In addition, many of its readers pursue creative writing as an avocation, often pairing their literary lives with other careers.
Power for Living (375,000 annual readership/circulation)
This weekly take-home paper for adults is filled with inspiring articles about famous and ordinary Christians whose insights demonstrate following Christ. Featuring reports on unique ministries, world missions, spiritual trends, and issues that affect families. Includes stories that are written by or about well-known authors on key faith concepts, social concerns, prayer, and much more. Well-suited as a church bulletin insert or in any doctor's waiting room.
PTO Today
Magazines for leaders of parent-teacher organizations. They’re published 6 times a year. They publish articles about parental involvement, leadership, fundraising, working with school staff, etc. They pay $200 to $700 for features. To learn more, read their submission guidelines.
Lake Superior Magazine
Regional magazine of the Lake Superior region. They publish photographs, cartoons, articles about people, places, and events in the region, as well as shorter articles on specific topics of interest. They pay $75 to $400 per article. To learn more, read their submission guidelines.
How to Send Us Your Work: We accept submissions only through our electronic submission system. We do not accept submissions through postal services or email. You may send us manuscripts for the following submission categories: General Submissions, Story of the Week, Readers’ Narrative, or a specific Contest. Your manuscript must be in one of the following file forms: .doc, .docx, .rtf, .pdf, .txt, .odf, .mp3, .mp4, .mov, and .flv.
From its website: Orion’s mission is to inform, inspire, and engage individuals and grassroots organizations in becoming a significant cultural force for healing nature and community.
Providence
Journal of Christianity and American foreign policy. They cover the intersection of faith and theology with national security and foreign policy. They pay $100 for website articles, and $250-$1,000 for print articles. To learn more, read their submission guidelines.
Psychology Today
We are looking for good, clearly articulated feature ideas–and writers with talent to bring these ideas to life. Nearly any subject related to psychology is fair game. We value originality, insight, and good reporting.
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Salon covers breaking news, politics, entertainment, culture, and technology through investigative reporting, commentary, criticism, and provocative personal essays. Our articles and original videos bring a variety of voices to the discussion and make the conversation smarter.
Scientific Reports is an online, open access journal from the publishers of Nature. We publish scientifically valid primary research from all areas of the natural and clinical sciences.
Shimmer aspires to publish excellent fiction across lines of race, income, nationality, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, geography, and culture, and therefore encourages submissions of diverse stories from diverse authors. This includes, but is not limited to: people of color, LBGTQIA, women, the impoverished, the elderly, and those with disabilities. We are not interested in acquiring fiction that denigrates or perpetuates stereotypes of the above groups.
The Funny Times, USA
A publication that pokes fun at politics, news, relationships, food, technology, pets, work, death, environmental issues, business, religion and the human condition in general. Pays $25-$40 per cartoon and $60 for each story.
Published quarterly, the Gettysburg Review considers unsolicited submissions of poetry, fiction, and essays, from Sept. 1 through May 31 (postmark dates). New submissions received from June 1 through Aug. 31 are returned unread. We welcome submissions of full-color graphics year round.
From Wikipedia: The Nation is the oldest continuously published weekly magazine in the United States, and the most widely read weekly journal of progressive political and cultural news, opinion and analysis. It was founded on July 6, 1865, as a successor to William Lloyd Garrison's The Liberator, with the stated mission to "make an earnest effort to bring to the discussion of political and social questions a really critical spirit, and to wage war upon the vices of violence, exaggeration, and misrepresentation by which so much of the political writing of the day is marred." It is published by The Nation Company, L.P., at 33 Irving Place, New York City. It is associated with The Nation Institute.
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More blog entries by Tom Gillispie
• Advice for be and would-be novelists
Anecdotes by Tom Gillispie
Entries from The Dog Blog
Blog entries from The Auto Racing Journal
(a book of great stories about the Intimidator)
(the book of great NASCAR stories)
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Tom Gillispie's resume In the winter of 1983-84, I was covering high school basketball for a small daily newspaper in the mountains...
