...For The Ride Home: Mariotti's recent troubles discussed on television, Demi Moore dances and your obligatory "'Modern Family' is great" piece

"It's the perfect song. A good drum intro. Great groove. And the lyrics are even a little bit romantic." That's what my dad said over the weekend as we revisited this band and a bootleg we made of them when we once saw them, what now seems like decades ago. Oh, how we miss you, The Urge. For those who like horns, reggae-ish music, funkiness, a little bit of soul and a lotta bit of a great voice, check them out. Way too bad they gave it up. So, hello to you, our dear, dear friends who are always here for support. It's the final day of August and that's bizarre. September is a mere few hours away and the end of summer 2010 is upon us. Big weekend coming up, and I only recently realized how many things I need to get done within the next, oh, say, like 36 hours. And it's because of that, that I will keep this introduction short. From the bottom of our hearts, we sincerely hope you enjoy the final day of (supposedly) the warmest month of the year, and we will see you back here, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, tomorrow morning. Remember: Always be respectful to others.

“Around The Horn” talked about the Mariotti business. Interesting. (The Big Lead)

Bob Bradley had his contract extended last night. Yes, that will be tomorrow’s post. (Boston Globe)

The New York Times and using the F-word. (New Yorker)

Mike Wise gets suspended for a month from the Washington Post for claiming Big Ben’s suspension was reduced to five games. On Twitter. (Pro Football Talk)

Something that is often looked over, but never should be: A newspaper is now going to recognize same-sex marriages in its wedding announcements. (Editor And Publisher)

It’s just sort of funny. Demi Moore dances like she’s 22 and out after finals week. (TMZ)

Green Day is going to release a live album. People still like them, right? (Alternative Press)

Because I couldn’t really elaborate how happy I was with “Modern Family" and the Emmys yesterday. Check this out. (New York Times)

...For The Ride Home: Make way for Mr. West, Ben Roethlisberger news and John Stamos is headed to "Glee"

I cannot get songs from this album out of my head! Yes, that's an exclamation point, too. Last week, I posted a performance of "Like A Dog" along with The Ride, and even that wasn't enough. Sat down earlier this week to pen a column paying tribute to this entire record. That, too, was not enough. Because when I sat down to compile the material for today's Ride, I couldn't get the line "Despite what you believe, I stay away from trouble," out of my head. So alas, instead of another performance that you clearly have no interest in, I thought I'd spare you with a simple picture of the album cover. Should have had a Powderfinger week, damnit. Ahhh, goodness. Moving forward, it's Wednesday, raining and cold. Wait, it's June, right? Has to be, because a pitcher made his major league debut last night and the world stood still for two hours. Come on, Nats. You started him against AAA-Pittsburgh. It's not that big of a deal. Can't be. Anyways, if it happens to be raining and cold wherever you are, it may be a good night to settle in with a bottle of wine and catch up on some blog reading. There is our World Cup prediction. There are countless signs of summer to acquaint yourself with. And, of course, there are the links below that you may use at your own leisure. Whichever it be, we hope you enjoy. Honestly, though.

He’s coming. Kanye West to perform at the BET awards later this month. Taylor Swift, coincidentally, pulled out of the ceremony today. (All Hip-Hop)

Sexism, the Chicago Tribune and hockey. Love Christine Brennan. (USA Today)

The New York Times’ ombudsman will pen his last column this weekend. So does that mean they are accepting resumes? (Media Matters)

The headline says it all. “Back To The Future” and “Jurassic Park” will become video games. (Yahoo)

Whoa. John Stamos is going to join the cast of “Glee.” No word on if Michelle or Stephanie will join him. (TV Guide)

Police have released tapes of the interviews done during the Ben Roethlisberger case. Just when you thought the story had begun to fade, too. This seems damning. (ESPN)

Anybody happen to be in Nashville? Anybody like Conan O’Brien? Anybody like Jack White? You might want to click on this then. (Pitchfork)

Oh, wow. Larry King’s wife overdosed. (Fox News)

...For The Ride Home: Everybody loves Pittsburgh, playoff beards abound and 40 years ago today, bad things happened at Kent State

Spoke of it yesterday, but just in case you missed it, we need to reinforce this: Go watch "In The Loop." Well, if you want to laugh, at least. If you don't want to laugh, go watch an Adam Sandler movie (sans "Funny People") or "The Hangover" or "The Reader" or something. Moving forward, from what we understand, tomorrow is a holiday. Maybe. Like a Mexican or Spanish holiday, right? Who knows. It's a holiday that allows 18-22-year-olds to have an excuse to take a break from studying for finals. Cinco De Mayo is what it is believed to be. Drink and eat tacos. As for today, take some time to check out the links below before getting one more day of rest before anarchy ensues. Be good.

Pittsburgh is the most livable city in America. Unless you live next to Ben Roethlisberger. (Yahoo)

40 years ago, four students died at Kent State. (CNN)

Wow Buzz Bissinger is mad. But he digs newspapers. So you have to love him. (Philly Mag)

Keanu Reeves and Charlize Theron? Really? This has to guarantee a new Third Eye Blind album in the making. (TMZ)

Jimmy Fallon will host this year’s Emmy awards. Good. (Popeater)

Woman unhappy with friend’s choice of groom. Threatens to “buy a gun and hurt her friend’s fiancé.” Insert “she crazy” joke here. (Slate)

Conan lied in his “60 Minutes” interview. Hmm. (New York Daily News)

The 10 most fascinating playoff beards in hockey. Nothing witty to say about that. (Yahoo)

...For The Ride Home: Guess who Betty White loves, playoff ratings are up and some jazz music to take you into a beautiful weekend

Story time: I ooked someone this morning. What's ooked? Crossed a dude up, went behind my back, and he falls over, square on the court. I then proceed to pick up my dribble and laugh at him, while staring at his fallen-down body. Passed the ball to a wide-open teammate, and bam: Easy layup. The guy was angry. Tellin' you, though. Had to let the youngins know what the old head can do. Don't sleep. Anyways, got back from the gym to find a dear friend of mine screaming through texts and voice mails that (yes, he's going go say it) this new Eminem freestyle is the best freestyle the Detroit rapper has ever done. Mixtapes, records, whatever. Yep. he said it. In honor of that, and in honor of saying goodbye to week five, we offer the above 2-and-a-half-minute jaunt (yes, the one featuring a line about Big Ben) for your listening pleasure. Had to call him back to say he may be right. As for now, though we have no idea where you are, but where we are, the weather is fantastic and you couldn't have a better looking day than this as we all leap head-first into May. But before you enjoy all of that, be sure to check out the links below and rock that new Em track. We absolutely cannot wait until we see you back here Monday morning, and as always, love you, miss you.

“I’m thrilled to meet him. I’m thrilled to see he’s going to be on the show because he’s the hottest thing since sliced bread, but I certainly enjoy him.” We’d ask you to guess, but we know you’d never get it. Betty White on Jay-Z. Where’s Blanche? (MTV)

Chief Digital Officer of Gannett says the pay wall/paid content strategy newspapers believe are going to save them won’t. In fact, he believes it so much, he’s quitting Gannett. Interesting. (Gannett Blog)

Let it begin in New York: Santonio Holmes gets kicked off flight for not turning off his iPod. Rex Ryan goes for seconds during breakfast. (TMZ)

Great headline: All They Want To Do Is Sue. The Eagles don’t want songs to be used for political gain. Or at least this politician’s gain. (Pollstar)

Spring game to see an official wearing a microphone. NBA TV ratings are up. And (because we know you’re out there) Versus NHL playoff ratings beat ESPN numbers for the first time ever. Caps fans still cry. (USA Today)

Halle Berry is single. Love her hair times infinity. (MSNBC)

In honor of other people involved with this blog: Never Shout Never. (Rolling Stone)

Because Jazz music does an awfully good job at soothing your soul. A day’s worth of material on Duke Ellington, complete with crazy good 1967 video. (NPR)

“All The President’s Men” is the greatest movie ever. They want to do it again. Only this time, around the catholic church scandal. Raise your eyebrows awkwardly right about…now. (Deadline)

...For The Ride Home: M.I.A. released a video that's offensive, young people who watch bad movies drink alcohol and Hanson is touring

We begin week five with an offering of Brand New because they just so happen to be on the mind. They are one of the few bands who have survived that entire scene without having any casualties, and there is certainly something to be said about that. And, well, "Seventy Times Seven" is easily one of the angriest songs in the history of the world. We like anger. In any case, we are coming up on our one month anniversary tomorrow. Exciting! The exclamation point is used for effect. Maybe we'll organize some type of celebration tomorrow by giving away free sour patch kids to the 1,000th page view. As for now, let's start off the week correctly.

An official newspaper war began today, and the contestants are pretty much a big deal. (The Daily Beast)

Ben Roethlisberger insists he did nothing wrong. Still. (TMZ)

Wow. The guy who stars opposite Jennifer Lopez in that must-be-awful new movie says the sex scenes weren’t any fun. I know it must be awkward, but honestly? Jennifer Lopez? (Dimewars)

Headline of the day: Children who watch R-rated movies more likely to drink alcohol. (Fox News)

Hey! Hanson is touring with Rooney! “This Time Around” is one of the 10 best guilty pleasures in the world. (Alternative Press)

The Sports Emmys are tonight, and we bet you didn’t know. (USA Today)

A lot of buzz around this M.I.A. video. At least she’s not pregnant in it. (Spin)

Ugh. Newspaper circulation drops another 8.7 percent in six months. According to the read-out, though, the pace of the decline has decreased. Silver lining? (Yahoo)

...For The Ride Home: Rufus doesn't want you to clap at his concerts, the media has trouble with Big Ben and Sarah Silverman is mad at Deadspin

Above, you see one of the greatest moments in NBA history: Allen Iverson making Michael Jordan look silly with a crossover. There wasn't a person in the world who thought that shot wasn't going in after he made the great one nearly fall to his knees. Why post this video now, at the conclusion of week four? Was finally able to sit down and watch the "30 for 30" on Iverson's trial last night. A little extensive, but provocative nonetheless. Couldn't get pass the director forcing himself upon the film, but aside from that, you should probably give it a look if you have an extra two hours. This is the last full weekend of April and goodness, where did the time go? You kind readers have been coming back for nearly a month now, and for that we are forever grateful. Be good, don't get into any stereotypical weekend trouble, and we will see you, the wonderfully gorgeous reader, back here Monday, ready and eager to read. As always, love you, miss you.

The most astute observation from last night’s NFL Draft. (Twitter)

Time magazine used to be much like a blog. Even better: David Halberstam’s name is dropped in this piece. (New York Times)

The case of Big Ben and how hard it has become for the media to properly cover it. Good read. (Market Watch)

Kim Kardashian used to be married? (Popeater)

Tiger’s back to slumming it: He blogged about the Masters, golfing and vacation. Scott Van Pelt adjusts the "bookmarks" function on his computer.(Tiger Woods)

Interesting: Archie comics is going to introduce a gay character into its comics. The revolution begins now. (Entertainment Weekly)

A little late on this, but it needs to be addressed: Rufus Wainwright is set to kick off his tour, and wants you to know that his audiences are prohibited from clapping during his first set. Honestly. (Pollstar)

First she loses her husband, now she loses her Razzie. Still have to root for Sandra. Recently found out she waited until 40 to get married. Probably the right way to go. Just too bad she waited for what she ended up with. (CNN)

Sarah Silverman is mad at Deadspin. Jimmy Kimmel packs his bags and holds a going-away party after leaving the doghouse. (Deadspin)

...For The Ride Home: Ben's suspension (finally), Sublime continues its reunion party and the "South Park" dudes are in danger

To the right of this paragraph, you will see Kermit Ruffins. Why a picture of him? Well, thanks to help help of NONE OF YOU (making me weep endlessly), I was finally able to pull up a site that has episodes of "Treme." Mr. Ruffins plays a big part in the first episode, and we can only hope he comes back for more. Quite possibly the coolest thing seen on television in the last two years: The trumpet player in a club, being watched by Elvis Costello. It was like a dream I never wanted to end. Only one episode in, but if you can't use hyperbole, you shouldn't have a blog: It may be the best show offered these days. "30 Rock" has competition. Moving forward, it's Wednesday, and that means hump day. Use all the sexual innuendo you'd like. And finally, had my e-mail hacked and something sent out a ton of spam to everyone I've ever e-mailed. Anyone know anything about this? I hear it's been making the rounds. Does this mean I should get rid of the address? Ahhh, who am I kidding? I spent five days begging anyone to say just one measly thing about "Treme," and came up empty. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Be good.

This is what irony means: The day after I proclaim all Big Ben news over until after the Draft, he gets six games. Stephen Jackson sighs. (ESPN)

The best part of believe is the lie. (You Tube)

Sublime reunited with their new singer last night on 4/20. Pot heads rejoiced. Bradley Nowell’s estate looked for ways to get paid. (Spin)

For newspaper heads: Birmingham News kills column explaining the effects of the recent spree of buyouts newspapers have been forced to enact. Naturally, a blog picked it up. (Poynter)

Hot Hot Heat will release a new album in June. Criminally over-looked band. It’s time for a dance party. (Alternative Press)

As suggested by a reader: “Michael Lynche’s attempt to channel his inner Chad Kroeger inspired funny feelings in the pit of my stomach.” Slezak’s “Idol” recap really isn’t all that bad. (Entertainment Weekly)

Muslims are threatening the creators of “South Park.” Hey, if anything goes down, at least we’ll know who killed Kenny. (New York Daily News)

Bet you didn’t know: Craig Ferguson is in the top two movies in America. (Twitter)

...For The Ride Home: "Curb" is back, Guru will be missed and "Hey Dude"

Waited as late as possible to see if any word on Ben Roethlisberger would come out for the second day in a row. And for the second day in a row, nothing happened. Ben watch is now on hold until after the NFL Draft. Today, we offer up Christina Hendricks in honor of her being named more beautiful than a bed of flowers yesterday. When does "Mad Men" come back, anyways? Even more so, for effect, we have offered up a link to her open letter to men at Esquire. It's awfully insightful. And by insightful, we mean awsomeradical. In any case, learn a thing or two about getting a date, gaze into this magical woman's eyes, follow a link or two, leave some comments, or have a listen to the new LCD Soundsystem record. Why? Because it's better than whatever it is you are listening to now. Be good.

How great is this? A “Where Are They Now?” with the members of “Hey Dude.” (Fox News)

As promised: Christina Hendricks thinks you should drink scotch and never make fun of your girlfriend’s friends. If she’s not the most amazing lady around, she’s got to be in the top three. Come on, now. (Esquire)

Kelsey Grammer is a Republican. In other shocking news, Keith Olbermann leans a little left, and Kirstie Alley has problems with her weight. (Yahoo)

Rest In Peace, Guru. No matter the authenticity of that note.(All Hip-Hop)

As a reward from wealthy people, Forbes is offering bloggers the chance to work for them…for free. (Gawker)

The NFL Draft – which begins Thursday this year, mind you – is rolling out the red carpet. Literally. (USA Today)

The Colorado Rockies’ president was found dead this morning. (Denver Post)

Hey, hey. “Curb Your Enthusiasm” will be back! Somewhere, Susie Essman curses. (Entertainment Weekly)

...For The Ride Home: Christina Hendricks really is the prettiest woman around, Big Ben and Pulitzer winner doesn't care about newspapers

For those scoring at home, "Use Me" is the best song ever written. Period. Well, at least according to one particular person who may or may not write for this blog. Can't get "Ain't No Sunshine" out of the head, so we open Week 4 with a vintage photo of the man, myth and legend. Can fill out three more spots in that Top 5 list, but still searching for the effervescent number five song. Any suggestions? Anyways, how was your weekend? Good? That's good. The weather seemed to be collectively awful, but that didn't mean you couldn't cuddle up and catch up on some movies, television shows or books, right? Got new deodorant recently, and it smells grrrrrreat. Don't you love when that happens? Life's little battles. Onward and upward...

Wanted to wait to see if an announcement is actually made today, but according to wonder-kid Adam Schefter, we wait another day. For now, damning, lengthy article on Ben Roethlisberger and the chain of events around what happened. Pretty good. (Post-Gazette)

Coachella happened this weekend. You saw what Jay-Z did in a post earlier today. Now read about how Sly Stone is completely nuts. (Billboard)

Rufus Wainwright loves opera, 50 cent and maple syrup. Like him. A lot. (Details)

If the Wall Street Journal’s New York edition works out, they may expand to other cities. Rupert Murdoch pets a cat in a dark room. (Adage)

It’s buried, but it’s there (Page 2): The kid who won the Pulitzer last week isn’t getting calls from the big boys. And he doesn’t know if he wants to be a journalist forever. Some people. (Washington Post)

Rolling Stone looks different. Still offers occasionally hollow pieces. P.S. How about that “Glee” cover story? Something wrong there. Who gave that article the green light? (Rolling Stone)

Isla Fisher is pregnant. Or oddly shaped. Never would have guessed she’s almost 35. (Us Weekly)

You probably cared about the Country Music Awards. Eww. Remember this? If you read it, then you, friend, may have watched the Juno Awards instead. Unrelated: The movie with Ellen Page and Michael Cera. (New York Times)

In a(n) (un)surprising move, Christina Hendricks was named America’s Best Looking Woman today. Good. Love “Mad Men.” Love her. Those who want to give it to Megan Fox clearly haven't read this. (Dimewars)

...For The Ride Home: Pulitzer winner talks, Conan begins his tour and "Dancin'" drummer dies

"Glee" returns tonight and from what we understand, it's supposed to be a big deal. Confession: Haven't watched a second of it. The critics can't be wrong, though, can they? Almost halfway through the week, which must make you all feel wonderful. Almost halfway through April, too. That must also make you all feel wonderful. Unless if you like cold, the winter or darkness. Then, well, you probably don't feel all that wonderful. As for now, check out these links, follow us on Twitter and e-mail us at theunusualsuspectsblog@gmail.com. We respond to everything. Promise.

Courtesy of TU. How a public relations man is doing his best to...save newspapers? (New York Times)

Going to try and a Pulitzer-related piece each day this week after the announcements yesterday. Today: Feature Writing - A chat with Weingarten about his tremendous story regarding parents who left children in cars to die. (Washington Post)

Great headline: Ben Reothlisberger’s apology infinitely more effective with “WWE Heel” look. (The Big Lead)

Conan opened his tour last night, fully equipped with Kenneth from “30 Rock” and a musical guest. TBS, here he comes. (Oregon Live)

The NBA playoffs are almost here. These guys have a possible upset between a 1-8 matchup. Possible? Anything’s possible with Kevin Durant. (Bleacher Report)

For all the drummers in the house: Steve Reid, a jazz legend who played on “Dancing In The Street,” died today. He was 66. (CMJ)

Ads on Twitter, huh? It’s hard to think people actually have a full grasp on how much the world has changed within the last 20 years, and, for that matter, will continue to change within the next 20 years. (Slate)

Ochocinco gave his “Dancing With The Stars” partner a diamond ring? Really? (US Weekly)

...For The Ride Home: Treme and more Treme, Weekend Update's radical reunion and Tiger Woods (y'all)

Oh, how so sad it is to see Norah Jones week come to an end. Today, we offer up the absolute cutest song ever written. And that's no overstatement. No spoilers, but if you've never heard the song before, wait until something clicks inside your brain at the 1:30 mark. You'll smile for days. Anyways, we love you Ms. Jones (to make ourselves feel better, we sometimes pretend that people stumble across this particular blog. We know you're out there, Norah. It's all out of love). Moving forward, and something we have so absentmindedly forgot to mention. If you, the fantastically pretty reader, happen to come across any links you'd like to share with the world in this particular section, or, if you'd like to tell us that we are idiots in a more personal manner than the comments section, feel free to e-mail us at theunusualsuspectsblog@gmail.com. All links used will be given complete credit. And a Popsicle. That's it for this week, friends. Can you believe we have been running two weeks strong? Crazy, we know. Big weekend ahead. A premature birthday celebration of sorts, and more importantly, the premiere of "Treme" on HBO (and yes, there will be multiple links below concerning that alone). Can't recall being more excited for the premiere of a television show...ever. That said, probably won't be able to get to it until way after it airs. Those who feel the same passion and excitement for this lovely television show may use the comments section here as a thread for what your first impressions may be. And yes, we'll drop by to see if any of you actually do such a thing, participating in intelligent and substantial conversation ourselves. If none of such things happen, we will count on seeing you back and better than ever Monday with new posts and new conversations. As for now, don't forget that broadcast media needs to re-think some things (or thangs), and, well, take time to appreciate how great women can be. Because, they most certainly are. Until Monday, love you, miss you.

Long, extensive read on Tiger. It's pretty good, too. Insightful, if nothing else. Nearly through with his second round, you would be an idiot to bet against him winning this weekend. (Golf.com)

The "Flight Of The Conchords" crew is coming back to the states! Over-looked and under-appreciated show. Should have went way longer than two seasons. (Pollstar)

Speaking of television shows, the dude from "Burn Notice" edged out Charlie in the finals today. That's upsetting. To make him feel better, be sure to watch your favorite "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia" episode this weekend. (Chicago Now)

"Treme" time. First, an extensive interview with the creators literally hours before a writer died on the set last week (NPR). And then yet another journalist who believes the show will live up to the hype (Los Angeles Times).

There have already been terrorist threats against the World Cup. (Fox Sports)

How it works: If you comment on our blog, we will link your blog. (Julielynn)

Anybody want to take out ads in the Wall Street Journal or New York Post? Rupert Murdoch offers up to an 83 percent discount. (The Guardian)

Brody Jenner and Avril Lavigne? (TMZ)

An announcement concerning Big Ben is set for Monday (ESPN). If you don't remember, there may be some racial implications as a result of the conclusion. Never like to see that.

Super cool to see all these guys last night on the same stage. Is Amy Poehler pregnant again? Has to be. She's huge. (Late Night With Jimmy Fallon)

Something's got to give in Roethlisberger case

So, the Pittsburgh Steelers' offseason condition program began today. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported last night that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will indeed not be reporting to the program, deflating the collective ballon of those who were hoping to hear from the over-sized, "gee-I-look-like-a-normal-dude" superstar.

Tony Kornheiser had Washington Post sports reporter Mark Maske on his radio show last Wednesday and discussed an issue that only a select few have decided to tackle: The divide between how NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has responded to this particular incident in comparison with, oh, say Pacman Jones, and the racial undercurrent of such an issue that was initially tackled by the often rambunctious Jamele Hill.

"Ben Roethlisberger is not unlike Pacman Jones in the sense that Pacman Jones was never convicted of anything, but kept getting in trouble, kept being talked to by the police, and Goodell said, 'you know what, enough is enough, and I'm suspending this dope for a while.' ... You can't have a double standard of justice for a black defensive back and a white quarterback, and the players are going to say, 'wait a second now.' ...This can very easily become racial politics, don't you think?" the PTI host asked.

"I think it's true," Maske responded. "The personal conduct policy empowers the commissioner to act before the legal process is played out. It empowers the commissioner to impose league discipline even if the player is not charged with a crime. That comparison to the handling of the Pacman Jones case .... I think all of those things will come up. All of those things will be talked about, and those will have to be factors that are taken into consideration when the time comes to make the decision on Roethlisberger."

Then, of course, there's this, and there's this. Interesting, isn't it? OTAs begin April 19. When's he going to show? When's he going to talk? The longer he waits, is Goodell more inclined to dish a punishment out? That said, if he's innocent, why hasn't he rushed to clear his name, much like he did the last time he found himself in this type of mess.

This isn't Marc Bulger, Alex Smith, Tyler Palco or even Tony Romo. This is a two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback who can't dodge controversy no matter how hard his team of handlers try, and no matter how polished the Rooney's idea of the Pittsburgh Steelers may be perceived. Something's got to give, but who's going to be the first to give it? Roethlisberger and a hollow apology? Or Goodell and a legacy-damaging suspension?

Remember how low Pacman Jones sunk? No? This may help.



-TU