Live from Tampa
Hey everyone. I am now settled in at HABOTN-Florida Headquarters near the Tampa airport. It's a nice place. Our friends from The Gold Mine and AuburnUndercover.com are stationed nearby, so there is safety in numbers.
The trip took me approximately eight hours from Montgomery.
Here are some pictures I took along the way:
Dothan has more red lights than Amsterdam. It took me at least 30 minutes to get around that city. Second only to Crestview, Fla., in terms of unpleasant traverses.
Welcome to the Florida line ... about 15 miles south of Dothan. It's never sunny when I roll into Florida. I find that odd.
SCHEUDULE UPDATE: Auburn practices around 10 a.m. Monday at University of Tampa. Chizik and Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald will hold a joint press conference around 1 p.m.
We'll be updating as needed.
The trip took me approximately eight hours from Montgomery.
Here are some pictures I took along the way:
Dothan has more red lights than Amsterdam. It took me at least 30 minutes to get around that city. Second only to Crestview, Fla., in terms of unpleasant traverses.
Welcome to the Florida line ... about 15 miles south of Dothan. It's never sunny when I roll into Florida. I find that odd.SCHEUDULE UPDATE: Auburn practices around 10 a.m. Monday at University of Tampa. Chizik and Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald will hold a joint press conference around 1 p.m.
We'll be updating as needed.
posted by Jay G. Tate at
9:22 PM
152 Comments:
Keep bringing it, Jay. I can't wait.
Hope you had a Merry Christmas and have a wonderful HABOTN New Year!!!
Jay G, glad you made it.
Those new white shoes with the orange screenprint paint and UnderArmor logo are fugly.
Looks too 70-80ish.
JGT ...MGY to TPA in 8 hours is mving on ....especially if Dothan was crowded.
If I was at home, we could have a cookout at my house, but i will be in Orlando. Headed to Tallahasee Monday (staying at some lake house for 2 days) then to Orlando. Staying in downtown Disney. Not sure about going to the game.
From the previous thread: Rumor has it that WTC's new grill can cook 18 steaks all at once. I say we're watching the Outback Bowl at his place ....we'll each bring our own meat and WTC can fire/tend that new grill during halftime.
Jay G. making it happen.
From prior thread. 18 steaks was easy. We also had 5 kabobs going. Finished up with 2 tuna steaks.
Only 3 words for that food. D-lish-us.
Okay, now I'm really pissed you didn't invite me.
WTC ....leave the fam @ Disney for the day and scalp a tix in a section near the Hotties @ the Outback Bowl.
We will have a hottie night this coming year. Maybe when AU makes the NCAA tourney i will invite EVRYONE over for a cookout.
We are discussing whetether they want to go. daughter does since she is a student at AU.
WTC,
You talking about a safe offer, Auburn in the NCAA?
UK has got to get better in the red zone or they are gonna lose.
I'm not sure I can wait THAT long.
We have a relative that works at Epcot as a performer so we get free tix to all the parks. They usually want to go there all day everyday.
WTC ...I assume you're talking about the women in the tourney.
I am not sure that is happening either Hoopie.
Well maybe we should choose another event to plan a cookout around. I am seriuos. we can have something at the WTC crib. Wife will enjoy meeting some of you
We may be talking about the swimming and diving team.
maybe they are on Versus.
meow
Which ones will she enjoy meeting and which ones will she not enjoy meeting WTC?
I'm not sure how many can fit on my new grill as it remains in my father in law's barn awaiting transport to the Hangar.
I am still convinced that McDonough and Millen are BUI -- broadcasting under the influence.
She's met me, and that's always a pleasure for everyone so honored. She's met j-z but was fortunate enough to avoid popcorn spewage. She's met Jet and I have no doubt that was not a pleasure. Other than that, I can only speculate.
New Year's Resolutions
1. Be nice to Norm
2. Screw resolution No. 1.
Norm-I think she likes Jet due to the kids going to school together. That is the only viable reason i can think of for her liking him.
Nah, she's just being a polite lady. She doesn't really like him. No way.
Mrs. WTC has always liked me ... even more so since I gave her such a good deal when I reupholstered that sofa.
Ok Jet...that made me laugh.
I gound out tonight that dude threw in a redone chair for $455. What a deal maker I have for a spouse.
Hoopie ... in re new cleats ... I concur.
Somebody needs to take the Krylon away from UnderArmour. But I don't consider the shoes a part of the untouchable uniform.
WTC - I do believe our wives would get along right well. I can tell they have a lot in common.
Kentucky seems to have made adequate adjustments to loose this game, dang it.
She is trying to keep the economy from going into a recession all by herself.
She believes if she keeps her credit card maxed out, when it is stolen they can't put anything on it.
Come on Kentucky!!! Win one for the Bumpkin!!!
I am reminded of Faker's old coach, Bebes ...
"You play 80 plays a game to make the 3 or 4 that decide it."
Kentucky fumbles inside its 20, and Cousin Clem cashes it in. We'll see if that finishes off the 'Cats.
These books at AU are flippin expensive. They come to me at 10:15 and say order these now please. what?
Credit Cards are evil. Warn your kids. Don't do Credit Cards.
Steve-they are evil. debit cards are aso if you do not have the discipline to not use it everytime you turn around.
Actully, I was just kidding on her use of them. I just give her grief when does use it.
Dave Ramsey approves of your post Steve.
Credit Card companies send a ton of pre approved things to college students...or they did when I was in school.
It looks like I am leading the bowl pick em. I'm not sure how that happened, but I do know one thing. It won't last.
Yeah, right, WTC.
You speak when you're spoken to, and when you are spoken to, you say "Yes, ma'am."
wtc,
I agree about debit cards too...it's easy to go crazy...
I don't have a single credit card. I do have two debit cards. I paid off my credit cards a few years ago. Owed over $20,000 on them for a while. Life is much better without those bills.
Life is easier without owing money that is for sure. Most folks can't handle it though. They refuse to get a handle on their finances.
Getting in credit card debit is one of the dumbest things I ever did. Now I invest my money and earn 5-7% a year. Compare that with borrowing money and paying over 10% a year in interest. It makes a huge difference in your life. I just wished I had been smart enough to do like this when I was young.
Sometimes on my commute home I'll catch Dave Ramsey on the same station after Finebaum goes off.
Some of the stories on that show are amazing..
Caller: Hi Dave, we have a bit of a problem. We have a $400,000 house and $30,000 in credit card debt.
Dave: What's your household income
Caller: $35,000 a year household income.
Dave: How the &#$#(&#$($ did you get a loan for that? (ok...so I added my own thoughts to Dave's response)
I listened to Ramsey a bit today. I like him. He is pretty level headed and tends to keep things simple.
Only thing about him is that he's a Vol...
He has a suite at Neyland I think.
FSJ ...
I heard he got a second mortgage to finance the suite.
FSJ-I eas thinking the same thing:
Caller: Hey Dave, thenk for taking the call. How are you?
Dave: Better than I deserve. How can I help.
Caller: Dave we owe $150k on the house, $35k on credit cards, $30k on student loans and my husband just bought a new F250 with payments of $940 a month for 72 months. What should we do?
Oh yeah. Our income is $3500 per month.
What I listened to today was the best of Ramsey. A lady called in with $15,000 in credit card debt. She said she no longer could afford to pay on the debt at all. She talked to the credit card company and they agreed to settle for 30% of the money. The problem was, she didn't have any money to pay the 30% either. Dave told her to just tell the credit card company to write it off as a loss. She wanted to use another credit card to pay around $5000. Dave said what is that going to get you? You have a $15,000 bill you can't pay. You can't pay any one it. Why have a $5000 bill you can't pay any on.
Goodnight folks. Hope you enjoyed your day Jet.
Goodnight Norm.
I thought Kentucky had a good shot of knocking off Clempson. Looks like it isn't going to happen.
Back to football:
Au needs about 260 yards this week to pass the total yards from the 2004 team.
I heard something like that, wtc. It would be the most yards in a season. It is pretty amazing considering the issues this team had last season, not to mention that our offense took about 3 games off in the middle of the season.
If we were playing a against a more traditional offense in the bowl game, I would predict the best defensive performance of the year. Northwestern worries me a bit due to our lack of depth in the secondary.
Me too. I am just hoping we get a lot pf pressure on the Qb so he can't pick us apart.
AU only had 19 TD's on 2008. Au has 45 this year. They had 52 in 2004.
Time to hit the sack. I should be able ot post sometime during the week. Everyone have a great week and a Happy New Year.
I drive 80-82 on the interstate.
I follow speed limits more closely on state roads. I don't question Barney's willingness to give me a ticket.
Before the night slips away I want to wish Jet a Happy Birthday.......hope it was a nice one!!!!!!
Another site has a list of the top plays of the decade by Auburn. To me, the top play was Dansby throwing the ball back in against North Carolina. Yes, we lost that game, but it is rare you see a play that you have never seen before.
The Junior Rosegreen "Hit" is also high on my list. It really did change that Georgia game in 2004.
Life is easier when you don't owe money. NO DOUBT.
Credit cards basically suck.
Glad those problems are firmly in my rear view.
I'd say the punt block and dive to the end zone against UF would have to be up there too.
We had a couple of incredible victories over Florida and that block has to be up there. Tre deserved at least a 9.5 for that dive, even from the Russian judge.
Everyone seems to think the evil empire will wax Texas. I don't think it is as clear cut. My guess is if McCoy has a great day, the Texans blow up the death star.
Missinit and all those who sent the birthday wishes ... many thanks ... as I slide toward 50 ... I am grateful for the simple things in life ... like HABOTN.
Good night.
Happy Birthday and goodnight Jet.
be joining you in tampa tomorrow! The AUMB pulls out at 8 am be there around 6
Steve,
I'll be honest with you...the Texas game scares me to death.
Why, FSJ? Nebraska showed that Texas is vulnerable. Auburn showed the evil empire is vulnerable. Most people are picking the evil empire. For Texas to win, they will likely have to turn it into a throwing contest. If it becomes McCoy versus McElroy, Texas should win. I can see that happening, but I wouldn't consider it likely.
By the way FSJ, the SEC Champ has never lost a BCSNC game. I believe we are 5-0 or 6-0 if my memory is correct.
Good morning, Hotties!
WARRRRRRRRRRR EAGLE!!!
GO TIGERS!!!
SteveFC - I'm not everyone.
We're
so close
almost
touch it...
BEASLEY!!!
JayGT - I am glad to hear of your safe arrival. Let's just hope they are saving the sunshine for game day.
WTC - y'all want to sit in the HABOTN section?
Oh no, the bailiff has just taken me into custody for blog abuse. I'm being sent to prison. Hopefully, I can get paroled in time to help 2.0 finish the HABOTN placards. Y'all ha
From previous post..
Luv, if you're on anytime today, we will see you at the Intercontinental ... somehow. We'll also be getting into town New Year's Eve probably in the late afternoon. This is getting fun.
I'm jealous of everyone heading to the Outback Bowl. I really wanted to attend and see that Bowl game. Maybe next time in about 15 years or so I can do that.
According to weather.com the outlook has changed from showers, to a few showers on the 1st in Tampa. I'm still pushing for the front to hit wednesday or not even make it that far south.
And I'm not sure about the shoes.
Also, google maps says the trip is only 8 hours from Atlanta. Could that be true? I'm hearing about all these 10 hour jaunts, but would love it if we were actually up for an 8 hour ride.
mytommy- I made it to Ocala from Villa Rica in 7 hours and I don't drive fast by any means and that is having 2 kids that require stops along the way. You should make it there in around 8 hours IMO.
8 hours is very doable. I
And THAT'S what I needed to hear!! Thanks Eddie and Wake!
I would like it to be known that I have given a War Eagle in Korea... unfortunately the guy had no idea what I was talking about.
Wake- Was the person wearing 2004 National Champions gear ? :)
Good morning, Hotties! I agree with Hoopie on the new shoes. I'm old school...I like black.
I guess I need to change my avatar...
I made it from Atlanta to Orlando in less than 7 hours. We left here @ 6, stopped for lunch in Gainesville at 11:15 and were checked in and poolside @ 3. Hopefully Tampa is not an 8 hr drive.
8 hours from ATL is very doable. I'm 35 miles or so up 75 from downtown, and I made it to Ocala in 7 1/2 hours. I'm no speed demon either--I keep it between 7-10mph over the limit on the interstate usually. Also, had the dog, wife, and daughter. Made a couple stops, but did it through the night, so not as many as I probably would've had to make midday.
Hmmmm, I think my dear wife must be confused. She told me it's always taken her 10 hours to Tampa. Not that I don't trust her, but it sounds more likely to be an 8 hour trip than 10.
The drive doesn't take long ... if you consider that 10 hours is less than 10 percent of your week.
Glad you made it Jay,
Dothan= my home town, otherwise known as the Circle City, because everything is in a circle, the traffic is just bad there, no other way to describe it.
Tampa=Ybor City, great beer and other non-family places with employees named Amber and Candy. Just saying or so I have heard.
Jay,
Was Urban Meyers resignation the shortest of all time?
BTW down here in Mobile, saw AU legend Kurt Crain at the gym, he is coaching now at Sout Alabama, he looks long in the tooth, but still a big guy, he saw my auburn shirt and said war eagle, nice guy.
Corch Ervin Meyers' decision to spend time with his family due to health issues, then rescinding it because of his love for his team, reminds me of the words of a former state Senator who enjoyed the perks of office a little too much.
"I %#$%$%# hate the holidays. You have to spend time with your family instead of your loved ones."
Gladulations, Corch.
back to work. sucks. :(
Corch ... that's funny
Go Gaytah
Good morning Hotties!
Meyer paints a pretty picture about its all about the team, the players and other coaches. Yet he pulls the spot light on himself every time he can. This last one is a doozie. What is wrong with this man?? Family and health comes before self glory and public attention. Those that buy this act will also buy ocean side condos in Arizona
Agreed Scottie!!
i hate dothan!!! not the people, just the city and driving in it. i feel your pain jgt. i was there last monday and tuesday for business and it took me 45 minutes to get from the hospital to my hotel on US231. usually a 15 minute ride. stay off the circle!!!
Morning, HOTTIES.
Partly sunny and 61 here in Tampa. I'm headed over to practice and on to the coaches' press conference.
I think I'll have internet access from the presser, so I hope we can hold another LIVE BLOG.
See you in a bit.
We will be waiting in anticipation JGT! At least those of us who can't make it to Tampa can live vicariously through the rest of you lucky Hotties.
sweetness JG. woo-hooooo!
Kathy,
You put it so much more positively. I was thinking more "wallowing in my disappointment at not being able to go" :)
I'm trying to remain positive Cincy. By Friday, I'll probably be in full-fledge wallow mode! I keep telling my family that THT still has 4 tickets in the HABOTN section.
i've been bummed about not making it to Tampa. if i'm able to figure out how to make a home made bloomin' onion then i'll be ok. trying to replicate the Outback menu for the gameday tailgate. :)
Patdyewldeturkey - glad to know you are from Dothan. Me too, finished NHS in '83. Just "slightly" before your time.
Jay - Was in Dothan for the holidays. Traffic does suck. Esp entering on 231 between the new Target and the Circle.
I think everyone has followed the instructions in Gen 37:17 - For I heard them say, "Let us go to Dothan". the only problem is the city planners forgot to plan for them.
Wish I could be there for the fun, Haven't ruled out a last minute trip.
Hey, anyone seen Kristina around?
Michael
Are you kidding?
I don't even know anymore, IV
I don't think he is kidding, IV.
He needs Kristina to know if he is kidding or not.
Dang internets here at work not working too well today (our phones are completely out). Hope everyone had a great Christmas! I am looking forward to being in Tampa for the New Year!
I have been away for awhile. What is the word on Cam Newton?
That he is Fig's first cousin
Hahaha, I am slow, but I eventually got it.
Newton is supposed to announce his destination on NY Day. With or without Fig.
I know where Kristina is. She is in Gainsville trying to figure out if Urban Meyer is kidding or not.
Hmmm, I suppose he wants to get some attention. I am not sure I like that. Too many of these kids want to make a big deal out of committing. Get to college and make some plays might be a more impressive way of getting attention.
I would certainly like to know what caused the rapid reversal of Meyer's plans. Some articles seem to indicate it was his players, but more than likely the athletic department at Florida did something.
Do you think they needed something more than " I'm outta here and maybe I come and maybe I don't"?
My sense is that Urban wanted a "place holder" coach that he could easily supplant in a year or two when he decided he wanted to coach again. When Jeremy Foley compiled a list of potential successors that was more than a Vichy regime, I surmise Urban decided his family had seen enough of him in the past 18 hours to suffice.
But that was a very fulfilling 18 hours, jet.
With some wives 18 hours is enough to last for a while.
And what was Steve Spurrier doing during all of this?
Playing golf.
Very likely, but if Urban saw Spurrier turning in an application, he may have reconsidered his position.
I am not sure that Florida would want Spurrier back. He is about to retire after he gets Steve Jr. set.
Somehow I don't see Spurrier retiring, although I can't see him back at Florida either. I think he likes the gig in South Carolina. Have a winning season and there really isn't that much pressure. I do think that modern offenses and defenses have kind of made his offense obsolete.
Believe me, when he gets things, including finances, like he wants them, he will retire. He is in semi retirement now.
Hmmm, I had assumed he was financially set. At one time he turned down a raise at South Carolina, but that was years ago.
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Bill Gates is financially set. the rest of us are sucking wind.
Probably old news but I had not seen it till just a few minutes ago.
By Chris Low
Rich Brooks said following Kentucky’s 21-13 loss to Clemson on Sunday night in the Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl that he’s “80 percent” sure that he won’t be back next season as the Wildcats’ coach.
I'll let you kids in on a secret. I have a conniving mind.
If I'm Urban, I'd be secretly campaigning for Spurrier to "come home."
Let him coach for two years, and he won't be able to match Urban's pace. Steve is right: Spurrier is a good coach, but he's not better than everyone else any more, and his lack of energy will do him in.
It will diminish Spurrier's legacy and further elevate Urban in the Gator Nation. Soon enough, there will be human sacrifices begging Urban to return.
I would call this "Operation New Coke." Unveil a new product that so infuriates the masses that they beg for the old one and pay a premium for it with even deeper loyalty.
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Interesting analysis Jet, but I am not so sure.
Outback Bowl Preview on ESPN2 right now.
My browser has the hibbie jeebies again
I assume Rich Brooks is going to retire and turn the HC position over to Joker Phillips. Isn't Brooks nearly 70 years old?
What's wrong with being 70 years old?
There is nothing wrong with being 70, but being a college coach at 70 might not be the best idea. Sure, Paterno and Bowden did it forever, but it isn't the norm.
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