Blank

Posted on July 10, 2025 by AverageAndy

That’s what happens to my mind when I sit down to write on this blog. Even though there’s a lot of stuff going on in News, Sports, Movies, Books, Music, and life in general, when I start to write, my mind goes blank and I struggle to think of what to write about. But I am going to give it a try and see what I come up with today (Thursday, July 10th, 2025, sitting at the Starbucks in Chester, NJ)

1. Update: I am still working on listening to all Judas Priest Albums (I’m up to Turbo)

2. It’s Back… Big Brother 27 premieres tonight at 8:00 PM EST on CBS

3. Mets play a doubleheader today against Baltimore after getting rained out last night

4. Finished “Don’t Flinch” by Stephen King – An enjoyable book, with some cool twists

5. Here are some photos of Lost promo cards that I promised:

6. Still looking for a new job – Hard to believe it’s been 9 months. Hopefully, some of the leads I’m working on will pan out soon

7. Took a trip down to the New Jersey Shore last weekend (Spring Lake). I haven’t been to the shore in a while, and it was a great time. Spent more time in the ocean than I have in a long time. I highly recommend taking a day off and heading to the shore (or any other beach).

8. Went back to Spring Lake and walked/ran the entire boardwalk on Tuesday morning. It’s an easy drive, and parking is free, so I figured why not try walking/running somewhere different

9. I use Strava to track my runs. Looks like I can embed my runs on this blog. Going to give it a try, and if things work, I can add some of my future runs as well

Spring Lake Walk (July 2025)

10. If you haven’t heard/seen Trae Crowder, definitely check him out. He’s an American comedian who puts out great videos on social media about the current state of the country.

That’s it for now. I will be back soon as I want to talk about all the false information that is out there on social media, and how we are heading for some strange times. It can’t be good mentally when you realize you can’t trust anything you see or hear on social media. We are going to have trust issues, as well as self-esteem issues, as people will feel betrayed. Add to the fact that people don’t want to look or feel dumb, so will probably dig in deeper rather than accept that things were simply made up.

And I don’t get why people create and post things they know are false or misleading. Im sure money is somehow involved, but do they ever think of the harm they are causing the individuals or groups they are targeting? Lets also not forget the time, effort, and money wasted by people constantly having to explain or defend themselves

I cant imagine seeing a story about myself (good or bad) end up on social media that was completely made up. Having to explain to everybody that you have no idea about it, or where it came from.

We are going to need some kind of regulations that punish people for things they say. Their answer can’t be “It’s just a Joke”, “You had to know this was not real”, or “I was just being sarcastic”

We have laws in place to stop individuals from bullying people. They even include things other than physical violence, like mental trauma. But we need more. I’m all for free speech, but should it be allowed on all platforms regardless of its intent? If somebody walks up to me and starts yelling that they don’t like the clothes I’m wearing or my hairstyle, that’s their right. Nobody is going to throw them in jail. But if they take a picture of me, go home, and then post that I said something, am part of some group, or support some cause that I have nothing to do with, that should not be allowed.

Going to do some more research and dig deeper on this

Hope everybody is doing well, and wishing you all the best

#PEACE

AverageAndy

#NeverTooOldForSurvivor
#GiveMeAChance
#BB27
#LGM

Out

Posted in Baseball, Big Brother, Books, Food, Jeff Probst, Jesse Tannenbaum, Job Searching, Judas Priest, LOST, Music, Non-Sports Cards, Reality Shows, Sports, Starbucks, Stephen King, Survivor, Television | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Iron Maiden – “The Number of The Beast”

Posted on June 24, 2025 by AverageAndy

There are a ton of YouTube channels out there where people will review music (songs, albums) with titles like “Listening to XYZ for the first time”, or “Classical Singer hears XYZ for the first time”. While most of them are OK to watch now and then, when it’s a song or album I like, there are a few that I watch for the content. I enjoy The Charismatic Voice, where the host Elizabeth Zharoff is a trained classical musician, and gives a deep look into the vocals

I recently came across The Daily Doug and think he does a pretty good job and gives some good information. Also, it seems that he likes a lot of the same type of music I do.

Here are two of his latest videos where he listens to Iron Maiden’s “The Number of The Beast”. An all-time classic album from one of the all-time great bands

Been a while since I listened to this album and it was great to hear these songs again

#IRONMAIDEN
#UPTHEIRONS
#NUMBEROFTHEBEAST

Hope everybody is staying cool during the current heat wave here in New Jersey

AverageAndy

#PEACE

Posted in Iron Maiden, Music, The Charismatic Voice, The Daily Doug, YouTube | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

“We Are Fucked” – John Oliver

Posted on June 23, 2025 by AverageAndy

A great episode of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO). AI is coming faster than we think, and while there are a lot of good things associated with it, I would agree with John Oliver that there are also a lot of terrible things.

Michael Jones Wood Carvings

To all of you who are part of this heat wave, stay cool, stay hydrated, and have a wonderful day

#PEACE

AverageAndy

Posted in Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Media | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Time for another post (RIP Anne Burrell)

Posted on June 20, 2025 by AverageAndy

Very sad to see that Celebrity Chef Anne Burrell passed away this week at the age of 55. I have been a fan of the Food Network and all of their past and present chefs, and this one hit hard. She was always funny and entertaining on shows such as “Worst Cooks in America,” as well as being an excellent chef. It is very heartwarming and moving to see all the tributes from fellow Food Network Chefs. It really shows how much of a community and friendship they have for each other. Rest in Peace, Anne Burrell, you and your spikey white hair will be missed

You all know I am a huge fan of Survivor, as well as the other CBS shows “The Amazing Race” and “Big Brother”. I consider these the best and feel most other reality shows simply do not compare. I tried watching “The Traitor” (Season 2). But once Dan Geesling and Parvity Shallow were eliminated, I quickly lost interest and have not watched since. Then I tried “Deal or No Deal Island”. I was confused on how things even worked, and I lasted one episode. I never even made it far enough to see Will Kirby (One of the greatest Reality show players of all time). I have tried many shows and not really piqued my interest. Either there is too much emphasis on relationships, or the rules and challenges just aren’t interesting. But I have to say, I am really enjoying “The Snake” on Fox. A simple concept of challenges and then voting people out. Depending on how things go, there could be some interesting gameplay and strategies. I have watched the first two episodes and am actually looking forward to the next one

Also, a while back, I decided to go back and watch all 6 seasons of LOST. I have completed Seasons 1 and 2, and I had forgotten how great a show this was. I also forgot a lot of what happened, and it’s been interesting as bits and pieces come back to me. You have to remember that LOST was on Network TV (ABC) and back when it aired, Seasons were 20 Episodes, so 6 Seasons is around 120 Episodes.

Inkworks did put out a few sets of LOST Trading Cards (before they went out of business).

I got this off the internet. I will go through some of my Promo Card binders when I have some time and post some more of the Promo Cards that were released. This was one of the sets that got me into Promo Card Collecting

Time flies when you’re having fun (or when you are at Starbucks updating a blog). I find it easier to write out and about than sitting at home in my office. Looking forward to writing some more soon

Looks like the weather is going to be nice going forward, so will hopefully find some time to get out and a round and take some mental notes on things that would be interesting to write about

AverageAndy

#NeverTooOldForSurvivor
#GiveMeAChance
#PEACE

Posted in Amazing Race, Big Brother, Card Collecting, Food, Fun and Games, LOST, Non-Sports Cards, Reality Shows, Survivor, The Snake | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Whats been on my mind the past few weeks

Posted on June 10, 2025 by AverageAndy

Where does the time go? I just logged in and see I haven’t written anything since May 29th. Going to try and catch up with things and let you know what’s been on my mind

Still looking for a new job. It’s been a long time, and it’s getting very frustrating. Things seem to change daily in terms of how you should look and apply. I see people saying to use AI to write a tailored resume and cover letter for every job you apply for. Then I see people saying companies are trying to figure out how to weed out AI-created content. I see sites like ZipRecruiter saying they now offer video interviews as part of the application. Then you see companies saying they want to do face-to-face in-person interviews to make sure people are not using any sort of assistance. It’s just crazy

Another thing I think is funny is when you are told to do “your research” on a company; follow them on social media, read their press releases, and try talking to past and current employees to make sure that the company shares your core values. Sounds good, but in every job I have had, most people hired don’t really care what the company does, or what their values are, as long as they get a paycheck. I have sat at lunch many times listening to people bitch and complain about the company, upper mangement, their boss, and their co-workers.

I know things will work out, and hopefully, I will be writing about landing a new position and re-joining the working world

That’s enough about that for now

Here are some random things and thoughts I have had over the past few weeks

I went and saw the new Mission: Impossible movie (Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning). I really enjoyed it and liked how they connected things to the earlier film, which actually made sense. Also liked some of the filmmaking decisions, like long stretches with no dialogue. All and all, a fitting conclusion (??) to the Mission: Impossible series. Also, Tom Cruise is a really good actor and should be awarded for his body of work.

Finished watching “Andor” Season 2 (5 Bags) and “Last of Us” Season 2 (4.5 Bags). Both shows were really well done, with good storylines. I also watched “Your Friends and Neighbors” with Jon Hamm and thoroughly enjoyed it. Currently, I am catching up with The Walking Dead: Dead City, and getting back into re-watching “Lost” – Almost done with Season 2.

Still working on the Judas Priest Albums – Up to “Point of Entry”. It’s been really interesting hearing songs I would never have thought were Judas Priest, mixed in with classics I have heard hundreds of times

Sad to see the passing of Lorreta Swit (Maj. Margaret ‘Hot Lips’ Houlihan on the classic TV Show M*A*S*H). MASH remains one of the all-time best TV shows ever made. As time goes by and we lose TV and movie stars from our youth, we need to remember the joy that the actors brought to up and celebrate their careers – RIP Lorreta Swit. You will be missed

The NY Mets are playing some good baseball. They continue to get good pitching, and their hitting has been producing more than not. It’s fun to watch when your team is good and you are in most every game. Planning on taking a trip out to CITI Field this summer to catch a game #LGM

Looks like they started filming Survivor 50. Going to be really challenging (and annoying) to try and avoid any news or spoilers. Don’t get why some people love to be ‘first’ to post things and don’t care about ruining things for everybody else. I’m sure that #JeffProbst #Survivor and all involved in the show will try to really keep things under wraps. Nobody (especially fans like me) wants to know who won Season 50 before Season 49 even airs.

The other day, after I had added a Survivor based post on X, I needed some down time, so I got out my kindle to continue reading the new Stephen King book “Dont Flinch” and read the folloing line “My mama always told me if you don’t ask, you don’t get”. Reminded me of my mom, who is always saying, “There is no harm in asking”. As I thought about writing a message to the Survivir casting director, Jesse Tannenbaum, on Instagram, I heard the song “Eye of the Tiger” on Pandora. Good song, I thought, before remembering that the song is by the group “Survivor”.This has to be a sign, so I wrote a brief message to Jesse asking him to check out my applications, and keep me in mind when putting together future casts. I will keep you updated if anything happens, but no harm in trying, and it made me feel good to follow my feelings and go for it.

Screenshot

I’m sure there are more things that I will remember, and I will do my best to log on more often and add them.

Until then, hope all is well, and have a great day

AverageAndy

#Survivor
#NeverTooOldForSurvivor (updated with proper grammar)
#GiveMeAChance

#JesseTannenbaum

#PEACE

Posted in Andor, Baseball, Books, Dalton Ross, Jeff Probst, Jesse Tannenbaum, Job Searching, Judas Priest, LOST, M*A*S*H, Mark Burnett, Mission Impossible The Final Reckoning, NY Mets, Reality Shows, Sports, Starbucks, Stephen King, Survivor, Survivor (band), Television, The Last of Us, The Walking Dead: Dead City, Your Friends and Neighbors | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Thoughts on the Survivor 50 Cast

Posted on May 29, 2025 by AverageAndy

Jeff Probst announced the cast for Survivor 50 yesterday morning on the CBS Morning Show. I actually watched it live after they teased it a few times, and made me sit through an hour and a half of the show. Glad I never got into the habit of watching TV in the morning. It was a hard watch

But enough of that.

Here is the list of the cast, and a few thoughts

Colby Donaldson: Seasons 2 (The Australian Outback), 8 (All-Stars), 20 (Heroes vs. Villains)
I always liked Colby, and am glad to see him back. (8 /10)

Stephenie LaGrossa Kendrick: Seasons 10 (Palau), 11 (Guatemala), 20 (Heroes vs. Villains)
I am a big fan of Stephanie. She deserves to be back — (9/10)

Cirie Fields: Seasons 12 (Panama-Exile Island), 16 (Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites), 20 (Heroes vs. Villains), 34 (Game Changers)
I like Cirie and wish her well, but we have seen enough of her – (4/10)

Ozzy Lusth: Seasons 13 (Cook Islands), 16 (Micronesia – Fans vs. Favorites), 23 (South Pacific), 34 (Game Changers)
Always fun to watch – One of the few who played a lot but still think is a good addition (7/10)

Benjamin “Coach” Wade: Seasons 18 (Tocantins – The Brazilian Highlands), 20 (Heroes vs. Villains), 23 (South Pacific)
Coach is the man. Can always bring him back – One of my all-time favorites (9/10)

Aubry Bracco: Seasons 32 (Kaôh Rōng – Brains vs. Brawn vs. Beauty), 34 (Game Changers), 38 (Edge of Extinction)
I like Abury, but don’t think of her when I think of the best of the best (6/10)

Chrissy Hofbeck: Season 35 (Heroes vs. Healers vs. Hustlers)
Glad to see Chrissy back – She got screwed with the firemaking twist and deserves this. Also, she is from my home town, so its always fun to see and root for somebody local — Go Huterdon County NJ (9/10)

Christian Hubicki: Season 37 (David vs. Goliath)
Always related to the way he looks at and analysis the game – Good choice (8/10)

Angelina Keeley: Season 37 (David vs. Goliath)
The only one of the cast that I don’t remember and really have no thoughts on (2/10)

Rick Devens: Season 38 (Edge of Extinction)
I liked Rick. Has a good personality for the game and wish him well (8/10)

Jonathan Young: Season 42
He’s a beast and dominated challenges. It will be great to see how this plays out. Will people use him to help them get far (I know I would) (7/10)

Dee Valladares: Season 45 Winner
I’m not the biggest fan and don’t feel they needed to include past winners who were not also all-time greats (4/10)

Emily Flippen: Season 45
I was a big fan of hers on her season, but it will be interesting how she handles playing a second time (7/10)

Q Burdette: Season 46
He is a character. Similar to Emily, will be interesting to see how he handles playing again (6/10)

Tiffany Ervin: Season 46
Nothing special and unremarkable to me. Also, not sure we need so many new era players, as the style of the game has changed (3/10)

Charlie Davis: Season 46
I think I remember him, but nothing really stands out — Another new ear player (4/10)

Genevieve Mushaluk: Season 47
Kind of like Charlie. I liked here but noting screams all-time great to me (4/10)

Kamilla Karthigesu: Season 48
Too early to even think about. I would not have had anybody back from this session. (3/10)

Kyle Fraser: Season 48 Winner
Too early to even think about. I would not have had anybody back from this session. (3/10)

Joseph Hunter: Season 48
Too early to even think about. I would not have had anybody back from this session. (3/10)

Looking at my rankings, It appears I have a bias against the new era players. While I ranked a lot of them low, there were several factors that went into my thought process;

1. The style of the game has changed a lot in the new era. As I have written numerous times on this blog, a lot of the new era players seemed more interested in having a fun adventure and making friends than winning the game. This makes them kind of boring as they are almost afraid to make any moves that would make other players mad

2. In old-school Survivor, players were much more strategic and cut-throat. They had no problems lying and manipulating other players. They would make moves that helped them move forward, even if it meant alienating them.

3. Ponderosa — When CBS used to show players leaving the game and going to Ponderosa, you got a different view and perspective of the players. Some of my favorite memories of early seasons were watching the Ponderosa Videos and getting an inside view of the players and the game.

4. History — I just seem to have more history with players of older seasons. Similar to why people favor movies or music of their youth over new stuff, I just feel more comfortable and relate better to the older players

I feel it will be really fascinating to see how Season 50 plays out. Will the familiarity of how players played help or hurt their game. Will there be any animosity between the different eras of players? We can also not forget the Fans’ Choice Voting determining things like Idols and Challenges. Lots of players have not played with the same rules and circumstances as others

There is plenty of time before things even get started, and I am sure I will have more thoughts as things come out and fans share their thoughts and opinions. I am already trying to figure out the best way to avoid spoilers as filming starts. I’m hoping the Producers put out a mandate on posting and sharing on social media platforms.

Best of Luck to all the #Survivor50 players

AverageAndy

#Survivor50
#Survivor51

#NeverToOldForSurvivor
#GiveMeAChance
#PEACE

#SurvivorPonderosa
#Michaela Bradshaw
#SomeTimesYouJustHaveToTryThings

#Marillion – A Better Way of Life
#LiveLongAndProsper
#MakeItSo

Posted in Angelina Keeley, Aubry Bracco, Benjamin "Coach" Wade, Charlie Davis, Christian Hubicki, Christine Hofbeck, Cirie Fields, Colby Donaldson, Dalton Ross, Dee Valladares, Emily Flippen, Genevieve Mushaluk, Jeff Probst, Jesse Tannenbaum, Jonathan Young, Joseph Hunter, Kamilla Karthigesu, Kyle Fraser, Mark Burnett, Michaela Bradshaw, Ozzy Lusth, Ponderosa, Q Burdette, Reality Shows, Rick Devens, Stephenie LaGrossa Kendrick, Survivor, Tiffany Ervin | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Survivor 48 has a winner

Posted on May 23, 2025 by AverageAndy

Survivor 48 came to an end, and crowned Kyle Fraser the winner of the $1,000.000.00. He was able to convince the jury that he did indeed outwit, outplay and outlast them all an deserver to be the winner.

Thus ended a strange season of Survivor. It started off good, had a big lull in the middle but did redeem itself at the end and the final tribal council. I think I learned more about the final five in the last episode than I knew all game. Still did not get the impression that Kyle was lying the entire time (other than being a lawyer in real life). He told people what they wanted to hear, and pretty much did what he said he was going to do. When Kamillia told Kyle that neither one of them would win if they were sitting in the final three, he used that to justify taking Joe without getting Kamillia mad at him. Kamillia then helped him at the final tribal by collaborating with him all the moves they made. Well played.

Looking back, there was really nobody that sticks out as a great Survivor player that will be remembered for years to come (although I have a feeling somebody from Season 48 will be invited back for Season 50). Season 49 wrapped filming, and will premier in the fall. If it works out, I am going to try and go to the Rob Has A Podcast Live Show in the fall.

Not the best season, but not the worst. I give it 2 1/2 Bags

Heard them talking on WFAN Sports Radio about the worst sports losses you have had as a fan. Thought about this for a bit, and here are a few losses that I will never forget

1. Seton Hall loseing to Michagain in the 1989 NCAA Finals

Seton Hall is in South Orange NJ, the next town over from Maplewood, where I grew up, so was a big fan and followed then on this magiacal run to the finals. Still hurts thinking about it today

2. NY Mets losing to the St. Lous Cardinals in game 7 of the 2006 NCLS

The Mets were the better team all year and this one really hurt.

3. NY Giants (Multiple bad losses)

A – Giants get blown out by the Baltimore Ravens in Suber Bowl XXXV

B – Giants lose play-off game to the Minnesota Vikings (1997)

C – Giants lose play-off game to San Francisco 49rs (2002)

D – Giants lose play-off game to the Los Angeles Rams (1989) (Flipper Anderson Game)

Finally a few things

Enjoying “The Boomerang” by Robert Baily

Finished Epesode 8 of Andor — Very good and very well done

Enjoyed the Season Finale of 9-1-1 and looking forwared to its retun in the fall

Really like 2nd season of “The Last of Us”

Still working on the Judas Priest Albums — Up to “British Steel”

Wishing everybody a Happy, Healthy, and Safe Memorial Day Holiday. Hope you get to spend some quality time with friends and family.

#Enjoy

#PEACE

AverageAndy (Unlike Kyle, I am the true average guy)

Posted in 101.9 WFAN, 9-1-1, Adam Klein, Andor, Boston Rob, Christian Hubicki, Christine Hofbeck, Dalton Ross, Drew Basile, Holiday Weekend, Jeff Probst, Jesse Tannenbaum, Job Searching, John Cochran, Jonny Fairplay, Judas Priest, Kellyn Bechtold, Mark Burnett, Mike Gabler, Music, NY Giants, NY Mets, Parvati Shallow, Rob Cesternino, Robert Baily - The Boomerang, Seton Hall, Sports, Survivor, The Last of Us | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Norm…. (RIP George Wendt), plus Survivor 48 Finale tonight

Posted on May 21, 2025 by AverageAndy

Very sad to see that George Wendt passed away. A fine actor best known for his role of Norm Peterson on the classic show “Cheers“. Cheers was a huge show al through my years at Lehigh. Back then, there were TV shows that were truly must watch, and Cheers was at the top of the list. I remember gathering in somebody’s room every week to watch it, We would laugh and laugh. All the characters were perfect and still resonate with people today. Rittenhouse Archives recently put out a card set for the show with one of the highlights being classic lines by Norm as he entered the bar.

Last year, my wife and I ended up at a brewery in New Hope, PA. On the wall behind the bar was a picture of George Wendt. I mentioned I liked the picture to the bartender, who told me it was an actual picture taken in the bar a few years back. George was performing in a play at the Bucks County Playhouse across the street and was staying in the hotel right above the bar. He stopped by a few times and grabbed a beer.

Geroge Wendt was one of a kind and will be missed RIP George Wendt (Norm)

Tonight is the Survivor 48 Season Finale, and a new winner will be crowned. To me, it’s been an OK season. As I have posted a few times, there just wasn’t somebody whom I could get behind and root for to win. Add that in the past few episodes, people seemed to be just going through the motions, not wanting to make any kind of big move. We will see if Kyle and Kamillias move to get rid of Shauhin pays off, or if it will be Joe and Eva at the end. (Or in something completely crazy, watch it somehow be Mitch winning as everybody simply forgets about him and he makes it to the end.

I understand that Jeff, Jesse, and the producers want people with interesting back stories, but to me, you need to go back to when there were more so-called average people who were interested in playing a game to win 1,000,000.00 dollars at all costs, and not just looking for an island vacation. The few who wanted to win (Star and Mary) were simply outnumbered and could never find a way to break into the top. Star gave her Idol away, but never seems to care, or even mention it to Eva. Mary tried too hard to mix things up every time she was near the bottom, and people got tired of it.

I have to admit, I was a bit surprised that Kyle and Kamillia were able to pull off the move they did. No way Joe should have believed a thing that was said by Kyle this far into the game. And then all Kamillia had to say was “I saw it” and Joe completely lost all trust he had of Shauhin. Seems crazy to me, but having never been in that kind of situation, I guess it could happen

Shameless Plug

This kind of thing is one of the main reasons I am dying to be a contestant on Survivor. To be put in an uncomfortable situation with a bunch of strangers, I wonder how I would react. As a very understanding and trusting person, would I become paranoid, would I trust everybody, would I make things up in my mind to justify things? I have no idea. If anybody out there reading this would like to help, and happens to know somebody who knows somebody who may be able to help me feel free to reach out. As this blog states (Because the world (and certain Reality Shows) need an average guy). Survivor needs Average Andy and I am up for the challenge

#Survivor
#SurvivorCBS
#JeffProbst
#JesseTannenbaum

#NeverToOldForSurvivor
#GiveMeAChance

Had some more to say, but it’s getting late. I will be back tomorrow as I update the Survivor Winners and Congratulations tab on the blog, so I will have my reaction to tonight’s finale

Here is a picture of Survivor legend #BostonRobMariano meeting a fan at the red carpet premiere of #TomCruise’s #MissionImposible Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

AverageAndy Out

#Marillion – A Better Way of Life
#WilliamShatner – A True American (and Canadian) Hero
#SadaharuOh – The True Home Run King

#PEACE

Posted in Adam Klein, Cheers, Christian Hubicki, Christine Hofbeck, Dalton Ross, Drew Basile, Jeff Probst, Jesse Tannenbaum, John Cochran, Jonny Fairplay, Kellyn Bechtold, Mark Burnett, Mike Gabler, Mission Impossible, Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning, Movies, Non-Sports Cards, Parvati Shallow, Rob Cesternino, Sports, Survivor | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Hunger Games (Sunrise on the Reaping) and other thoughts for mid May 2025

Posted on May 13, 2025 by AverageAndy

I just finished reading “Sunrise on the Reaping”, the 5th book in the Hunger Games universe (The 2nd prequel after the original trilogy). I have really enjoyed all of Suzanne Collins Hunger Games books, and this one did not disappoint. Much like the Harry Potter Books (Which I have also read all of), she has created an immersive world full of interesting characters and events.

Here is a timeline of all of the Hunger Games books. I read through it to refresh and remind myself of all the places, times, and characters, and it was a great way to bring everything back. Suzanne Collins’s ability to tell a family story full of home and premise while adding a graphic and disturbing story makes this one of the best series of novels. I’m already looking forward to some more adventures in the world of Panem.

Went to the movie theater last week (Half Price Tuesdays, paid $5.75) to see the 20th Annaversery reisue of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith. As a life long Star Wars fan, I hae come to enjoy all of the films (including the prequal trliogy) and was supprised how much this one has stood up over time. Was amazed on how good the file looked on the big screen after 20 years. The Speacial effects looked great and not as overblown as I remembered. The story also holds up and fits right in. Highly recomend you go see it its still showing

Speaking of Star Wars, I have watched the first 6 episodes on Andor, Season 2. Really like the feel of this show. Quite different than the movies, and other Disney + shows, this focuses more on the real world aspect of things. No Jedis, Sitth Lords and lightsaber fights (so far). It is amazing what they can do these days with special effects, creating such emersive worlds thats look and feel a real as normal day life. Looking for ward to see how this plays out. Also heard that I should watch Star Wars: Rogue One one I complete Andor, so will definaty do that and report back

Only 2 more episodes of Survivor 48. Crazy how things are moving along and then you look up and its almost over. Been an interesting season. At the begining I mentioned that there was really nobodty who stood out, good or bad, and sadly its still that way. There has been a lot of discussion on how the contestants are playing the game, with nobody willing to stand up and make any type of big move (most seem to dislike this style). I also think the producers got a bit unlucky with the cast. With the 90 minute epesodes, it looks like they wanted to focus more on camp life, and how the contestants interacted with each other, than with the challenges. But when there is nobody really interesting, outspoken, or charasamatic, they get put in a bad place. Remember Victoria Rafaeli from Big Brother 16. Neither do most people. She was raly seen or heard from during the but eneded up coming in 3rd. It seems that Season 48s power aliance is a bunch of Victoria’s. Nothing to see here, but they keep surviving week after week while really not doing much. Add to the fact that Eva keeps going on the advantages, taking away anybody elses chance of getting some sort of advantage, and you end up with a underwelming season. Its Survivor so its still enjoyable, but just wish somebody would step up and shake things up a bit. Lets hope things pick up a bit as Kyle will need to decide which way he wants to go (Stay with the four, or join Kamilla). Wednesday should be intersting.

Im a few epesodes behing of Big Brother. Hope to catch up and finish it up during the week. Still a fun watch, and makes me want to travel to some of the places they visited.

As Im still looking for a new job, I have had to change some of my plans. I was planning to go to Berlin, Germany in June to see Marillion play (Marillion Weekends 2025). But its now longer is the cards. I did see that Lead singer Sheve Hogarth (h) will be bringing his solo h natural show to ProgStock 2025 in October. in the great state of New Jersey about 45 minutes from where I live. This is definalty on my radar and will keep you updated. Marillion are also playing on Cruise to the Edge next March, so there is lots of motivation for me to get a new job.

I have completed listening to the next two Judas Priest Albums (Sin After Sin, Stained Class) as I atempt ot listen to all of their albums in order. Really good stuff with some interesting mix of heavy metal, and melodic rock. Really enjoying listening

And finaly, the New York Mets continue to play good baseball. They are getting good pitching night after night, and are in every game. Even in the games they lose, they give a solid effort. Lookijng forward to a fun summer of Baseball. Hoping to get to a game at Citi Feild with my daughter one of these weekends. Also glad to see some of the other teams I root for doing ok this season

Boston Red Sox – 22 – 21 and 2nd in the AL East
Minnesota Twins – 22 -21 and 4th in the tough AL Central (after a terible start)

Same cant be said about the Pittsburg Pirates – 14 – 28 They fired there manager last week after a 7 game losing streak, and despite having one of the best young pitchers in baseball with Paul Skenes, they just have not been ablt to find any momentum this season. The owner seems to be indifferent, which is a shame. They play in the beautiful PNC Park, and it feels like the fans are just waiting for hime to see the team and bring some new energy and excitment.

Thats all for now

Time for some shameles Pluggs

#JeffProbst and #JesseTannenbaum — I’m still waiting for my call for Survivor Season 51
#NeverToOldForSurvivor
#GiveMeAChance
http://www.averageandy.com

#Marillion – A Better Way of Life

#PEACE

Average Andy Out


Hi, my name is Werner Brandes. My voice is my passport. Verify Me.

Posted in Adam Klein, Amazing Race, Andor, Baseball, Big Brother, Boston Red Sox, Christian Hubicki, Dalton Ross, Drew Basile, Jeff Probst, Jesse Tannenbaum, Jonny Fairplay, Judas Priest, Kellyn Bechtold, Marillion, Mark Burnett, Mike Gabler, NY Mets, Parvati Shallow, Phil Keoghan, Pittsburgh Pirates, Reality Shows, Revenge of the Sith, Rob Cesternino, Sneakers, Sports, Survivor, Suzanne Collins - Sunrise on The Reaping, Suzanne Collins - The Hunger Games | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

What a messed-up world we are living in, (plus my latest Survivor Video was submitted)

Posted on April 28, 2025 by AverageAndy

I submitted my latest Survivor Video on Sunday (For Seasons 51 / 52). I took a simple approach this time and just talked for a few minutes. I simply spoke on how I have been a fan of Survivor since the beginning and would love the chance to be a contestant on a future season. Applying for Survivor is kind of paralleling my search for a new job. Whether it’s a video or a resume, I find it hard to promote and sell myself when not in person. I really feel that if the decision makers at Survivor, or any of the companies I have applied to could take some time to meet me liveand in person (or a live video call), they would see what a great, nice, interesting and loyal person I am and realize everything I would bring to the show or compnay.

Here are a links to and older Survivor videos I had submitted as well as the short video my daughter made about my Survivor journey over the past 25 years

As for the world, the more I hear or see things, the more I get myself confused. Seeing people react oppositely to things that seem simple and straightforward to me is starting to mess with my mind. Add to that that lots of smart people seem to simply be shrugging off the things they don’t understand or don’t want to get involved with, and this is becoming dangerous. We need to ask follow-up questions and not be afraid to discuss things that may be uncomfortable

There are opinions (which everybody is allowed to have), and there are facts. And while some facts may have different interpretations, there are lots of facts that should not and cannot be argued against. But we are now in a time where the average person does not believe anything trained journalists, subject matter experts, or years of research show as true.

It’s crazy how much time and energy is spent by people trying to disprove things for reasons such as “Since I don’t believe it, it must not be true.”, and “I’m an expert of this or that, and you don’t know what you’re talking about”.

I really liked the way 60 Minutes dedicated the last minute of Sunday’s episode to the ongoing story about the resignation of Bill Owens last week. Taking a shot at their parent company, Paramount, as well as how the ongoing merger needs government approval, was one of the main reasons for the resignation. it shows that there is still some journalist who care about the truth, and are not going to change their principle beliefs in exchange for money or power

And to all the people (or the jerks who like to flood things with bots) who took their time and energy to flood to X and scream and yell how they hate 60 minutes, how it’s run by liberals who hate the world, and how its been irrelivent for the past 30 years (yet apparently you’re still watching), I would like to say “Your not being smart or clever or funny. You are more of a sad fool who needs to get out more enjoy something. And also, the world is not an awful place, people are not out to try and make you feel bad,

Average Andy Out

#PEACE

#NeverToOldForSurvivor
#GiveMeAChance

PS – Not that it really matters, but the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame again showed that they are a bit clueless and out of touch with the general public. Congratulations to all the new inductees, it is well deserved. But the people in charge of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame need to get off their high horse and start to acknowledge the many artists and bands that play a style of music that forever reason you don’t like, appreciate, or understand.

#IronMaiden
#Scorpions
#Boston
#Styx
#REOSpeedwagon
#JohnDenver
#MotleyCrue

Posted in 60 Minutes, Adam Klein, Boston, Christian Hubicki, Christine Hofbeck, Dalton Ross, Drew Basile, Iron Maiden, Jeff Probst, Jesse Tannenbaum, John Cochran, John Denver, Jonny Fairplay, Kellyn Bechtold, Mike Gabler, Motley Crue, Music, Reality Shows, Scorpions, Survivor | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment