Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Support The MacT Relief Fund
[Note: this post will stay at the top until Wed. Nov 8th, 3PM MST. Scroll down for newer stories.]
Craig MacTavish was fined $10, 000 today for his criticism of referee Mick McGeough following last night's debacle against the Stars. As I noted late last night, I think it would be a nice symbolic gesture for the hockey blogosphere, and in particular the Oilogosphere, to help pay the cost of MacT's fine. I think enough of us in hockey land have had enough of Mr. Magoo's antics, and this is a good way to show it. As Tyler noted in the comments last night, we can send whatever we raise to MacT. If he doesn't want it, we'll request that he give the cheque to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, or another suitable charity of his choice.
I have set up a PayPal program at the top of the Battle of Alberta sidebar. Please make your donations there. In the last step of the process, there is a box where you can leave a message. Please say "MacTavish Relief Fund," "MacT Relief Fund" or something of the sort in the box, so that I know where to place the money. If I don't see that, I'll assume someone is leaving a tip in the cookie jar for Matt and I (always welcome, let me assure you).
As well, it would be really cool if others would link to this post, and encourage people to donate. 1000 people donating $10, or 500 people donating $20, and we got 'er. It's a tall task, but a fun one. It would be a great gesture, and I'm sure it would help raise the profile of the hockey blogosphere. Plus, it's a worthy cause. MacT's comments about McGeough were dead on. We all know it. The language may have been a little raw, but the reasoning was sound. This guy cost the Oilers one, maybe two points. Can you imagine if they miss the playoffs by that margin? Not only is the team eliminated; at least two million dollars in playoff revenue disappears. And if you're not an Oilers fan, imagine him stealing points away from you, and your team missing the playoffs. Because it will happen. MacT was fined by the NHL for talking, pure and simple. McGeough, to the best of my knowledge, has received zero punishment from the league for his actions. He apologized, the league says. Big deal. The greater issue is the points, and the fact that this guys' enormous ego always causes problems. $10-20 bucks is worth the statement, as far as I am concerned. I've already dumped in $10, and I'm going to donate $10 more. I hope you join me.
**Matt's Fine Print: the "relief effort" will end on Wednesday at 3PM MDT. Andy will look after announcing the final $ and getting it all where it needs to go. My own take is the here.
**Andy Update:
1) A Donation Meter is now up on the sidebar, beneath the PayPal button. That was actually really fun to make. Honestly, if we made it to $500, I'd be stoked. It'd be a nice chunk of change for a great organization.
2) I will do my best to prove that this money has indeed gone to the CNIB, but ultimately this is a trust thing. People's concerns in that regard are fair, but ultimately unfounded. If it is a concern, don't donate. I certainly understand.
3) 100.3 The Bear is also doing a fundraiser. This site is doing a different one. I want to avoid any confusion to those coming here. Please check out The Paul Brown Show for more info on The Bear's activities.
4) Our efforts have received coverage from Mike Sadava and Jim Matheson in the Edmonton Journal, and Eric Duhatschek in The Globe & Mail's blog Globe On Hockey. Thanks to them for covering the story, as well the many bloggers who also linked to the story.
Craig MacTavish was fined $10, 000 today for his criticism of referee Mick McGeough following last night's debacle against the Stars. As I noted late last night, I think it would be a nice symbolic gesture for the hockey blogosphere, and in particular the Oilogosphere, to help pay the cost of MacT's fine. I think enough of us in hockey land have had enough of Mr. Magoo's antics, and this is a good way to show it. As Tyler noted in the comments last night, we can send whatever we raise to MacT. If he doesn't want it, we'll request that he give the cheque to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, or another suitable charity of his choice.
I have set up a PayPal program at the top of the Battle of Alberta sidebar. Please make your donations there. In the last step of the process, there is a box where you can leave a message. Please say "MacTavish Relief Fund," "MacT Relief Fund" or something of the sort in the box, so that I know where to place the money. If I don't see that, I'll assume someone is leaving a tip in the cookie jar for Matt and I (always welcome, let me assure you).
As well, it would be really cool if others would link to this post, and encourage people to donate. 1000 people donating $10, or 500 people donating $20, and we got 'er. It's a tall task, but a fun one. It would be a great gesture, and I'm sure it would help raise the profile of the hockey blogosphere. Plus, it's a worthy cause. MacT's comments about McGeough were dead on. We all know it. The language may have been a little raw, but the reasoning was sound. This guy cost the Oilers one, maybe two points. Can you imagine if they miss the playoffs by that margin? Not only is the team eliminated; at least two million dollars in playoff revenue disappears. And if you're not an Oilers fan, imagine him stealing points away from you, and your team missing the playoffs. Because it will happen. MacT was fined by the NHL for talking, pure and simple. McGeough, to the best of my knowledge, has received zero punishment from the league for his actions. He apologized, the league says. Big deal. The greater issue is the points, and the fact that this guys' enormous ego always causes problems. $10-20 bucks is worth the statement, as far as I am concerned. I've already dumped in $10, and I'm going to donate $10 more. I hope you join me.
**Matt's Fine Print: the "relief effort" will end on Wednesday at 3PM MDT. Andy will look after announcing the final $ and getting it all where it needs to go. My own take is the here.
**Andy Update:
1) A Donation Meter is now up on the sidebar, beneath the PayPal button. That was actually really fun to make. Honestly, if we made it to $500, I'd be stoked. It'd be a nice chunk of change for a great organization.
2) I will do my best to prove that this money has indeed gone to the CNIB, but ultimately this is a trust thing. People's concerns in that regard are fair, but ultimately unfounded. If it is a concern, don't donate. I certainly understand.
3) 100.3 The Bear is also doing a fundraiser. This site is doing a different one. I want to avoid any confusion to those coming here. Please check out The Paul Brown Show for more info on The Bear's activities.
4) Our efforts have received coverage from Mike Sadava and Jim Matheson in the Edmonton Journal, and Eric Duhatschek in The Globe & Mail's blog Globe On Hockey. Thanks to them for covering the story, as well the many bloggers who also linked to the story.
# posted by andy grabia @ 3:01 pm 
Comments:
I believe HNIC said Magoo was talked to, but there will be no fine nor suspension (did anyone watch Coaches Corner tonight? Hmmm interesting to see Grapes keep his mouth shut about it, and even refused to show the play).
I'll definitely throw some money into this. Great idea!
I saw Coaches Corner. I expected Maclean to cover it up-being a ref himself and all-but I was surprised Cherry said nothing. I'll be flabbergasted if Magoo escapes punishment.
Word is, from the Satellite Hotstove, that there will be no disciplinary action against Mr. Magoo, and that MacT was fined for saying "retarded" and "spastic" more than for his actual criticisms. Dunno if I buy that, though.
Word is, from the Satellite Hotstove, that there will be no disciplinary action against Mr. Magoo, and that MacT was fined for saying "retarded" and "spastic" more than for his actual criticisms. Dunno if I buy that, though.
That's even more offensive. That's David Stern territory.
I wound up creating a new PayPal account because I forgot my first email addy. Then, I remembered it right after paying.
Sigh...technology.
That's even more offensive. That's David Stern territory.
And this is a surprise? Let's not forget where Mr. B started his career.
Hey -- Dave and I tried to donate some cashola, but PayPal is being a bitch. Add a spiritual $10 to the total.
I'm in. I bet if you were raising cash to have the zebra whacked, you'd have topped up by now.
And for all those people who are bleating, "Come on, it's only a game!" I say, yeah, well, it's the only game.
A quick glance at google will tell any hockey fan everything you need to know about Mick McGeough
Any points the Oil miss out on is less points this Canuck fan has to worry about, but no true hockey fan can be happy about the turn of events in the last seconds of that game. This isn't the first time Mcgeough's incorrect calls have altered the outcome of a game, and yet he has never faced any consequences. MacT says a few emotional words at the end of the game and loses ten grand because of it.
If I made these kinds of mistakes at my workplace on such a consistent basis, I would no longer be employed. I'm sure the same can be said of us all.
I'm in for $50. But one question: How will he receive the money? Will you mail it to him c/o the Oilers?
Screw it, I'm not nice enough to donate money. Only because I've always used my sister's paypal account and we have a silent agreement that I hate her and shall not give her money even if it is to be forwarded somewhere else.
Besides Australian dollars are practically worthless. What if I send a thoughtful card from Australia from a loving fan? You can't duplicate the postage stamp.
Great idea! I'll be chipping in. MacT said what we were all thinking. It would be a strong statement. The fans do give a crap about the game of hockey, and they care that it's going down the drain thanks to the NHL and it's minions.
I'm in for $50. But one question: How will he receive the money? Will you mail it to him c/o the Oilers?
Yes, something like that, with a letter from us stating our reasons for providing the money. I also like Tyler's idea of sending out a press release.
I also like Tyler's idea of sending out a press release.
Surely to goodness the administration staff of the Oilers read BoA on a
regular basis, if not several players!
If they don't know already, they'll soon know!
I'm being discussed on the HF Boards. Yeaaaahhh! RiversQ will be happy to know half of them don't like me either. Since I won't be signing up for the board any time soon, some things to note:
1) Life should be fun.
2) We all know that MacT can afford to pay the fine.
3) I'm pretty sure we all know we won't raise the full $10,00.
4) We all know it's likely going to go to the CNIB, so there's no harm in donating to them while having a little fun and letting off some steam about Magoo.
5) We get plenty of traffic without pulling off "publicity stunts" for our blog. Again, life should be fun. Relax.
Stunt, act of brillance or Oil fan protest- Andy and BoA are keeping this unfair event and display of hubris and incompetence in the news a little bit longer. That is a good thing for the game and a bad thing for egotistical showboat refs who may or may not have an agenda.
Andy, if you're really thinking, you'll send an email to the Team in Edmonton. I suspect that someone there already reads this site but it can't hurt.
I sent it. I'm happy to see it's been picked up on a couple other Oilers message boards, as well. Welcome, all!
Great idea, just donated $10
Problem is, in my haste, I missed the comment about mentioning something about MacTavish in the comments field, so I forgot to do so.
I sent an email to Andy's hotmail account in hopes of ensuring it goes to the right place, but I wanted to comment here in case Andy doesn't check that address all that often.
I'll update the meter at the end of every day, but I'll note that you gave it to me for that. Thanx!
Andy, maybe fire an e-mail off to the Bear, apparently this morning they were talking about raising funds to pay MacT's fine.
- PDO
You people ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Equating incompetence with people who are visually impaired (CNIB) is every bit as offensive as MacTavish's original comment.
What a ridiculous idea at best and a possible scam at worst.
Duhatschek talked about this post today on The Globe blog, so there might be an influx of newcomers to the site.
Good day, Andy.
I know I haven't chatted with you before. My bad.
I just opened a paypal account and they won't let me use my CC till they feel like verifying my bank info. ??? 2-3 days.
I'm in for the full $20 that I pledged in the other thread, but don't know if my paypal acct will be operational before you close the fund. Hope so.
Louise
LOL. Sounds like a "CashGrabia" to me. Really, what better way is there to skim a little off the top from this "fund?"
Suckers.
You people ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Equating incompetence with people who are visually impaired (CNIB) is every bit as offensive as MacTavish's original comment.
I never even clued in to the connection with CNIB. I thought it was related to Gretzky's past work with CNIB. Duh @ me.
Anonymous said...
You people ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Equating incompetence with people who are visually impaired (CNIB) is every bit as offensive as MacTavish's original comment.
Oh for fucksakes.
I've dealt with CNIB a little bit as my grandmother has suffered from macular degeneration for at least a decade and I'm not the least bit offended. I really doubt she would be either.
Grabia, I'll get my money in tonight.
Ssshh. I was planning on retiring off of this HUGE score. Could you keep it down?
Definitely. 200 dollars will get you a lot of candybars and icecream. Or booze. Whatever 200 can afford for the future. I'm sure a very cheap nature strip is worth that much.
Peer pressure got me putting in $15. The enthusiasm is inspiring. Just don't buy astroturf with that money.
My sister will see me pay her back never.
The Bear is doing their own thing. Here was an email from them,
Mac T went on record this past weekend to say what ALL hockey fans in Edmonton (and around the league) were thinking about referee Mick McGeough - he is now being punished individually with a fine of $10,000.00.
The Bear is encouraging hockey fans to help pay for the fine. "Hockey is a team sport and the fans are a HUGE part of this team - this is OUR fine and we'll pay for it together as any good team would. We support Craig McTavish AND his comments 100% - had it been us we would have said MUCH worse." says The Paul Brown Show.
If you are interested, you can drop off donations at The Bear (18520 Stony Plain Road), or keep it on the station for various other locations.
The Bear will be at Schanks (178 St and 99 Ave) from 4pm - 11pm tonight, and at Hudson's Oliver Square (104 Ave and 112 Street) tomorrow, November 7th from 4 pm - Midnight.
The goal is to present a cheque for the full $10,000.00 to coach McTavish - on behalf of Oiler Fans - when they return home November 13th.
Let's get together Oiler's Fans!
Count me in. The call was a joke, and this is a fine way to keep the focus on it and have some fun...which I think is what all us donors are doing. As for the non-donors who think it's a dumb or offensive or fraudulent idea (is that all the objections nailed down), why are you bothering to comment?
If you don't hit $10,000, the fund can be topped up later with income from mudcrutch's burgeoning new field of anticipatory libel, an exciting new branch of pre-crime.
Sure it is. You're donating the proceeds of your little cause to the CNIB with the directive that they could help Mick McGeough.
That's a very disgusting and cruel joke. You're the only one thinking that, shame on you!
Note to all: I have just deleted a ton of comments, from a bunch of people. The fighting has gotten out of control, and I'm going to be strict with any nonsense, from either side of the issue. If you have problems with things, I ask that you try to explain it in a civil matter. Thanks,
Andy
Quick troll recap:
Blind people are going to be offended, Grabia is a scam artist, Grabia is illegally fundraising and could get sued.
Wow, and you wonder why regular people don't want to do nice things anymore.
I'm a cheapskate and I'm still in for $10.
Come on people, it's going to a good cause regardless.
Ignore the trolls... unless you can track them down and punish them.
It's an idiotic idea.
How's that for civil?
Ron, can you email me? I'd like to hear why you are so angry about this. I meant no offence by it, and am open to hearing what you have to say about the issue. andygrabia@gmail.com
Hey Andy, Just read the EJ story. That's awesome. The commish himself wanted the web-heads to get the game out there, do you think this is what he imagined? Glad to have put in my ten bucks.
I've put in a few bucks.
What? An artist can't be a hockey fan? This is Canada!
I'm happy to see my money going to a good cause (CNIB).
I've put in my $10. No matter who this goes to, its a great showing of solidarity and support for Oilers organization.
Thanx for the suggestion, Dennis. The idea of giving to the CNIB doesn't offend me, but I welcome the conversation.
I happen to have had a great deal of interaction with members of the blind community over the last several years (check out the internet radio streams from the American Council for the Blind), Some of the best radio you'll hear. And damned if I'll sit back and let a bunch of ignorant rigpigs denigrate and equate mental retardation with visual impairment.
Bad enough that MacTavish called McGeough a retard. Worse is a bunch of Oiler fans equating blindness with vocational incompentcy.
And no, I will not go quietly into the night over this issue.
And damned if I'll sit back and let a bunch of ignorant rigpigs denigrate and equate mental retardation with visual impairment.
I'm not aware that I did, and I'd ask you to prove it. Your assumption is not fact. I'd also ask how calling us "ignorant rigpigs" shows that we should take your concerns seriously. I'm sure many wouldn't care much for the terms you are so casually throwing around.
Worse is a bunch of Oiler fans equating blindness with vocational incompentcy.
Again, I'd ask you to prove where this was stated. I believe the equation involved someone not "seeing" a call as being similar to the inability to see. There weren't any derogatory comments made or even suggested about individuals who are actually blind. The donation is going to a organization that we all believe does excellent work.
I happen to have had a great deal of interaction with members of the blind community over the last several years (check out the internet radio streams from the American Council for the Blind
I have no idea how I can do this, since I have no idea what your name is.
And no, I will not go quietly into the night over this issue.
Your harassment is being allowed. I could just switch the "moderate comments" function on, and no one would ever see your comments again. But you have an issue, and I'd to know what it is, solve it if possible, and then move on.
Well, I don't know how I can more plainly state my objections (seeing as how you should have a better idea seeing as how you've deleted them and not allowed for widespread consumption). But hey, I guess you can do that and you reserve the right to do so.
Nonetheless, your charade of staying on the up and up is being called on and it seems to me that you can't stand the heat.
Well, thank you for the comments, Ron. Although I don't agree with you, I don't mind having the discussion. It's the yelling and screaming by everyone that bothers me. And many people have been guilty of that tonight.
Added a link to the story. You ought to extent the deadline until Christmas - I'd wager the whole bill gets covered. Use the cartoon of Mr. Magoo at my post and hit on all the optical chains from Hakeem Optical on down. That would make the point clear. Best of luck.
Ron nasty really seems to have a chip in his shoulder about this, and I really want to see where this "everyone here makes fun of blind people and retarded people" argument comes from.
A lot of people here have worked with the blind and the disabled, there is no mighty banner cast upon who knows best. But the sheer idea of "And damned if I'll sit back and let a bunch of ignorant rigpigs denigrate and equate mental retardation with visual impairment." is bugging me because no one is putting that 400 dollars for that purpose. Ultimately, like you, I do not take it quite well when people are accusing a whole entire group of people of making fun of the blind.
And for chrissakes it's a charity. This is perfectly (mostly) clean money going to a charity in which people have an honest intention in contributing to their cause. No one has even mentioned a joke of it and anyone who has their go at a tasteless joke is usually cut down.
Lastly, er... since that it said it's going to CNIB in the EJ, I suppose that it's final.
Looks to me as though we need a certain someone from CinO to combine the words "blog" and "jealous" as a catch-all for some of these naysayers.
It's a fine idea Andy, run with it. People who have deception or ill will nearest their heart always suspect same in others.
THAT'S a teachable lesson in this situation too.
It might also be an idea to have a partner in the money portion of this transaction just to protect yourself against idiots who are jealous they didn't think of it.
Hey Grabia, did you email Matheson yourself? I want to know if I should be all giddy for contributing to the publicity.
"People who have deception or ill will nearest their heart always suspect same in others."
I second Lowetide's sentiment - which is particularly poignant given his own concerns over MacT's choice of words.
The suspicion and outrage is really discouraging.
Some very close relatives of mine are blind and I have yet to see any postings here to spark an outrage in me. People need to get rid of their own hate to see the good that has come from this.
The CNIB is a great organization that assists people who have varying degrees of sight problems and they can benefit greatly from any funds collected.
People need to stop being blinded by hatred and think about those that will benefit from a very shoddy call.
Anger should be focussed on the NHL, it's ref'ing and the fact the Oilers were ripped off 1-2 points.
I'm in for $20 as soon as I get home.
People condemn those who take action because they're too scared to take any on their own.
Great work, Andy. On behalf of some of those who will benefit from this donation, I thank you for your thoughtfulness. Good always trumps evil. This is proof.
Matheson??
---
Anyway, I think we can all agree that MacT was at his least eloquent the other day, but in the same breath I'll also say (his political incorrectness aside), he was expressing the frustration of every Oiler fan watching, and probably quite a few hockey fans in general.
I mean, c'mon, we know he wouldn't intentionally say or do anything to offend an entire swath of people, and on a personal level he works with Joey Moss every day.
As for the donations, I think what would be more telling is if the CNIB refuses the money, which I doubt they will.
I can tell you from personal experience in dealing with those differently abled is that the last thing they want is to be treated with kid gloves.
The percussionist Evelyn Glennie just performed at the Winspear a week or so ago. I was reading an article about her and she said she doesn't accept the term deaf or "hearing impaired" to be applied to her. Her abilities are different, and in many cases she can "hear" things that the average person wouldn't even be able to sense.
I think the real crime is in acting as if people with different strengths and weaknesses aren't just as capable, if not more, in handling themselves in our society. Everyone needs a hand in life, some people just need a different type of assistance than others.
I imagine there are quite a few blind Oilers fans out there who were also enraged by the bad call. I would go further and guess that some of them made a joke themselves about Magoo's apparent lack of visual acuity.
Of course, I'll probably never know for sure, but what I do know is that people are people and to act otherwise is to show that one doesn't really respect the differences that make us human, the difference that make us, in the end...all the same.
In this case I think there is a valid concern that does need to be put into context.
Not everyone who has an issue is just trying to "stir it up".
But maybe that's just me.
Not to beat a dead horse but I wanted to add a bit of support here.
Nowhere did I see/read/hear anyone "equate mental retardation with visual impairment" - the suggestion that the CNIB would be a good charity to donate these funds to was not made out of any such sentiment.
First of all the CNIB is a good charity to donate to. Period. Arguments? Naysayers? I didn't think so.
Secondly the "reasoning" behind the suggestion (if one must make the leap in some way) would be that a referee should have excellent vision and this one would seem not to. Hence the association with blindness. Tasteless maybe...maybe, but not mean or vindictive.
And yeah, living a block from CNIB headquarters and knowing exactly what a blind friend of mine said after listening to the game on the radio... I'm guessing we're alot more offended than any of them will be.
Give it a rest people.
Hey Grabia, did you email Matheson yourself? I want to know if I should be all giddy for contributing to the publicity.
Did he write about or comment on the story somewhere? The story I linked to was written by Mike Sadava.
I've heard rumour that The Bear is going to give their money to the CNIB. Is this true, or are people just confusing the two groups raising the money?
They're probably just JACK'ing your idea... baddum bum ching.
How much are you at anyway? You should do more frequent updates 'Jerry Lewis' style. Gotta keep people excited to see that number rise.
Last I checked, we were at $441.
I want some big dogs to come in and donate some big bucks. No whammies!
Anyone else remember that game show, btw? What was it called again? Big bucks....no whammies....Best game show ever.
I dropped $10 and threw the link on letsgocanes.com to hopefully get some donations coming from the Carolinas.
Goil!
At least we got a point.
And at least I got ridiculously drunk.
I love ALL of YOU!
Speaking as a visually impaired 24 year old (At 21 I got a blood clot in my right eye, had surgery, now have 75% vision, can read with it, barely, it's really only good for depth perception) I am not in the least offended by the references to the CNIB. In fact, I would go as far as to suggest that those that have expressed objection to the reference likely possess an ulterior motive.
i'm a little late to the party, but I'm in for a bit of cash.
complaining about people donating to a charity under pretty much any circumstances is about as reta-... stuipid as the call that sparked this whole fundraiser in the first place.
Grabia put me down for $25. I hate paypal. Don't worry, T-Rex will reach into his wallet and mail you a cheque.
1) Relax on McGeough's bad call for one minute. Vote on where you think the Hockey mecca is locatd!http://fauxrumors.blogspot.com/2006/11/where-is-hockeys-mecca.html#links
Ummm... Andy?...
Any way you can extend the deadline??? :-D
Stupid paypal still hasn't sent my "random deposit amounts" to verify my bank.
Plus...
I've given a heads up to a couple of crazies... I mean... eccentrics ;-)
MacT and co won't be back till next week. *insert puppy dog eyes smilie here*
Louise
Yes, I can extend the deadline, if everyone feels that is kosher, but I won't keep this post at the top anymore.
I just checked the account, and we are at $498! Keep 'er coming.
Totally extend it. But keep a little post at the top so latecomers know it has been extended. Otherwise the volume of writing twixt you and Matt these days will have that post buried in no time and people will never find it.
Also, did that total also include t-rex's promise of a $25 cheque? Way to go on hitting the $500 mark. And way to get the word out icedragon.
Finally got my $20 in, Andy.
Thanx for waiting.
Do you have a plan for delivering the fund? Apparently, theBear is over $5,000.
I think the first plan of attack will be to contact the Oilers. But I'll do a quick post once I close this all up and ask people.
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I believe HNIC said Magoo was talked to, but there will be no fine nor suspension (did anyone watch Coaches Corner tonight? Hmmm interesting to see Grapes keep his mouth shut about it, and even refused to show the play).
I'll definitely throw some money into this. Great idea!
I saw Coaches Corner. I expected Maclean to cover it up-being a ref himself and all-but I was surprised Cherry said nothing. I'll be flabbergasted if Magoo escapes punishment.
Word is, from the Satellite Hotstove, that there will be no disciplinary action against Mr. Magoo, and that MacT was fined for saying "retarded" and "spastic" more than for his actual criticisms. Dunno if I buy that, though.
Word is, from the Satellite Hotstove, that there will be no disciplinary action against Mr. Magoo, and that MacT was fined for saying "retarded" and "spastic" more than for his actual criticisms. Dunno if I buy that, though.
That's even more offensive. That's David Stern territory.
I wound up creating a new PayPal account because I forgot my first email addy. Then, I remembered it right after paying.
Sigh...technology.
That's even more offensive. That's David Stern territory.
And this is a surprise? Let's not forget where Mr. B started his career.
Hey -- Dave and I tried to donate some cashola, but PayPal is being a bitch. Add a spiritual $10 to the total.
I'm in. I bet if you were raising cash to have the zebra whacked, you'd have topped up by now.
And for all those people who are bleating, "Come on, it's only a game!" I say, yeah, well, it's the only game.
# posted by 
: November 05, 2006 1:37 am
: November 05, 2006 1:37 am A quick glance at google will tell any hockey fan everything you need to know about Mick McGeough
Any points the Oil miss out on is less points this Canuck fan has to worry about, but no true hockey fan can be happy about the turn of events in the last seconds of that game. This isn't the first time Mcgeough's incorrect calls have altered the outcome of a game, and yet he has never faced any consequences. MacT says a few emotional words at the end of the game and loses ten grand because of it.
If I made these kinds of mistakes at my workplace on such a consistent basis, I would no longer be employed. I'm sure the same can be said of us all.
I'm in for $50. But one question: How will he receive the money? Will you mail it to him c/o the Oilers?
Screw it, I'm not nice enough to donate money. Only because I've always used my sister's paypal account and we have a silent agreement that I hate her and shall not give her money even if it is to be forwarded somewhere else.
Besides Australian dollars are practically worthless. What if I send a thoughtful card from Australia from a loving fan? You can't duplicate the postage stamp.
Great idea! I'll be chipping in. MacT said what we were all thinking. It would be a strong statement. The fans do give a crap about the game of hockey, and they care that it's going down the drain thanks to the NHL and it's minions.
I'm in for $50. But one question: How will he receive the money? Will you mail it to him c/o the Oilers?
Yes, something like that, with a letter from us stating our reasons for providing the money. I also like Tyler's idea of sending out a press release.
I also like Tyler's idea of sending out a press release.
Surely to goodness the administration staff of the Oilers read BoA on a
regular basis, if not several players!
If they don't know already, they'll soon know!
I'm being discussed on the HF Boards. Yeaaaahhh! RiversQ will be happy to know half of them don't like me either. Since I won't be signing up for the board any time soon, some things to note:
1) Life should be fun.
2) We all know that MacT can afford to pay the fine.
3) I'm pretty sure we all know we won't raise the full $10,00.
4) We all know it's likely going to go to the CNIB, so there's no harm in donating to them while having a little fun and letting off some steam about Magoo.
5) We get plenty of traffic without pulling off "publicity stunts" for our blog. Again, life should be fun. Relax.
Stunt, act of brillance or Oil fan protest- Andy and BoA are keeping this unfair event and display of hubris and incompetence in the news a little bit longer. That is a good thing for the game and a bad thing for egotistical showboat refs who may or may not have an agenda.
Andy, if you're really thinking, you'll send an email to the Team in Edmonton. I suspect that someone there already reads this site but it can't hurt.
I sent it. I'm happy to see it's been picked up on a couple other Oilers message boards, as well. Welcome, all!
Great idea, just donated $10
Problem is, in my haste, I missed the comment about mentioning something about MacTavish in the comments field, so I forgot to do so.
I sent an email to Andy's hotmail account in hopes of ensuring it goes to the right place, but I wanted to comment here in case Andy doesn't check that address all that often.
# posted by : November 05, 2006 9:39 pm
: November 05, 2006 9:39 pm I'll update the meter at the end of every day, but I'll note that you gave it to me for that. Thanx!
Andy, maybe fire an e-mail off to the Bear, apparently this morning they were talking about raising funds to pay MacT's fine.
- PDO
You people ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Equating incompetence with people who are visually impaired (CNIB) is every bit as offensive as MacTavish's original comment.
What a ridiculous idea at best and a possible scam at worst.
# posted by : November 06, 2006 12:34 pm
: November 06, 2006 12:34 pm Duhatschek talked about this post today on The Globe blog, so there might be an influx of newcomers to the site.
Good day, Andy.
I know I haven't chatted with you before. My bad.
I just opened a paypal account and they won't let me use my CC till they feel like verifying my bank info. ??? 2-3 days.
I'm in for the full $20 that I pledged in the other thread, but don't know if my paypal acct will be operational before you close the fund. Hope so.
Louise
# posted by : November 06, 2006 2:21 pm
: November 06, 2006 2:21 pm LOL. Sounds like a "CashGrabia" to me. Really, what better way is there to skim a little off the top from this "fund?"
Suckers.
# posted by : November 06, 2006 3:49 pm
: November 06, 2006 3:49 pm You people ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Equating incompetence with people who are visually impaired (CNIB) is every bit as offensive as MacTavish's original comment.
I never even clued in to the connection with CNIB. I thought it was related to Gretzky's past work with CNIB. Duh @ me.
# posted by : November 06, 2006 4:18 pm
: November 06, 2006 4:18 pm Anonymous said...
You people ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Equating incompetence with people who are visually impaired (CNIB) is every bit as offensive as MacTavish's original comment.
Oh for fucksakes.
I've dealt with CNIB a little bit as my grandmother has suffered from macular degeneration for at least a decade and I'm not the least bit offended. I really doubt she would be either.
Grabia, I'll get my money in tonight.
Ssshh. I was planning on retiring off of this HUGE score. Could you keep it down?
Definitely. 200 dollars will get you a lot of candybars and icecream. Or booze. Whatever 200 can afford for the future. I'm sure a very cheap nature strip is worth that much.
Peer pressure got me putting in $15. The enthusiasm is inspiring. Just don't buy astroturf with that money.
My sister will see me pay her back never.
The Bear is doing their own thing. Here was an email from them,
Mac T went on record this past weekend to say what ALL hockey fans in Edmonton (and around the league) were thinking about referee Mick McGeough - he is now being punished individually with a fine of $10,000.00.
The Bear is encouraging hockey fans to help pay for the fine. "Hockey is a team sport and the fans are a HUGE part of this team - this is OUR fine and we'll pay for it together as any good team would. We support Craig McTavish AND his comments 100% - had it been us we would have said MUCH worse." says The Paul Brown Show.
If you are interested, you can drop off donations at The Bear (18520 Stony Plain Road), or keep it on the station for various other locations.
The Bear will be at Schanks (178 St and 99 Ave) from 4pm - 11pm tonight, and at Hudson's Oliver Square (104 Ave and 112 Street) tomorrow, November 7th from 4 pm - Midnight.
The goal is to present a cheque for the full $10,000.00 to coach McTavish - on behalf of Oiler Fans - when they return home November 13th.
Let's get together Oiler's Fans!
# posted by : November 06, 2006 6:08 pm
: November 06, 2006 6:08 pm Count me in. The call was a joke, and this is a fine way to keep the focus on it and have some fun...which I think is what all us donors are doing. As for the non-donors who think it's a dumb or offensive or fraudulent idea (is that all the objections nailed down), why are you bothering to comment?
If you don't hit $10,000, the fund can be topped up later with income from mudcrutch's burgeoning new field of anticipatory libel, an exciting new branch of pre-crime.
Sure it is. You're donating the proceeds of your little cause to the CNIB with the directive that they could help Mick McGeough.
That's a very disgusting and cruel joke. You're the only one thinking that, shame on you!
Note to all: I have just deleted a ton of comments, from a bunch of people. The fighting has gotten out of control, and I'm going to be strict with any nonsense, from either side of the issue. If you have problems with things, I ask that you try to explain it in a civil matter. Thanks,
Andy
Quick troll recap:
Blind people are going to be offended, Grabia is a scam artist, Grabia is illegally fundraising and could get sued.
Wow, and you wonder why regular people don't want to do nice things anymore.
I'm a cheapskate and I'm still in for $10.
Come on people, it's going to a good cause regardless.
Ignore the trolls... unless you can track them down and punish them.
It's an idiotic idea.
How's that for civil?
Ron, can you email me? I'd like to hear why you are so angry about this. I meant no offence by it, and am open to hearing what you have to say about the issue. andygrabia@gmail.com
Hey Andy, Just read the EJ story. That's awesome. The commish himself wanted the web-heads to get the game out there, do you think this is what he imagined? Glad to have put in my ten bucks.
I've put in a few bucks.
What? An artist can't be a hockey fan? This is Canada!
I'm happy to see my money going to a good cause (CNIB).
I've put in my $10. No matter who this goes to, its a great showing of solidarity and support for Oilers organization.
# posted by : November 06, 2006 11:37 pm
: November 06, 2006 11:37 pm Thanx for the suggestion, Dennis. The idea of giving to the CNIB doesn't offend me, but I welcome the conversation.
I happen to have had a great deal of interaction with members of the blind community over the last several years (check out the internet radio streams from the American Council for the Blind), Some of the best radio you'll hear. And damned if I'll sit back and let a bunch of ignorant rigpigs denigrate and equate mental retardation with visual impairment.
Bad enough that MacTavish called McGeough a retard. Worse is a bunch of Oiler fans equating blindness with vocational incompentcy.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 1:11 am
: November 07, 2006 1:11 am And no, I will not go quietly into the night over this issue.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 1:14 am
: November 07, 2006 1:14 am And damned if I'll sit back and let a bunch of ignorant rigpigs denigrate and equate mental retardation with visual impairment.
I'm not aware that I did, and I'd ask you to prove it. Your assumption is not fact. I'd also ask how calling us "ignorant rigpigs" shows that we should take your concerns seriously. I'm sure many wouldn't care much for the terms you are so casually throwing around.
Worse is a bunch of Oiler fans equating blindness with vocational incompentcy.
Again, I'd ask you to prove where this was stated. I believe the equation involved someone not "seeing" a call as being similar to the inability to see. There weren't any derogatory comments made or even suggested about individuals who are actually blind. The donation is going to a organization that we all believe does excellent work.
I happen to have had a great deal of interaction with members of the blind community over the last several years (check out the internet radio streams from the American Council for the Blind
I have no idea how I can do this, since I have no idea what your name is.
And no, I will not go quietly into the night over this issue.
Your harassment is being allowed. I could just switch the "moderate comments" function on, and no one would ever see your comments again. But you have an issue, and I'd to know what it is, solve it if possible, and then move on.
Well, I don't know how I can more plainly state my objections (seeing as how you should have a better idea seeing as how you've deleted them and not allowed for widespread consumption). But hey, I guess you can do that and you reserve the right to do so.
Nonetheless, your charade of staying on the up and up is being called on and it seems to me that you can't stand the heat.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 1:47 am
: November 07, 2006 1:47 am Well, thank you for the comments, Ron. Although I don't agree with you, I don't mind having the discussion. It's the yelling and screaming by everyone that bothers me. And many people have been guilty of that tonight.
Added a link to the story. You ought to extent the deadline until Christmas - I'd wager the whole bill gets covered. Use the cartoon of Mr. Magoo at my post and hit on all the optical chains from Hakeem Optical on down. That would make the point clear. Best of luck.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 4:14 am
: November 07, 2006 4:14 am Ron nasty really seems to have a chip in his shoulder about this, and I really want to see where this "everyone here makes fun of blind people and retarded people" argument comes from.
A lot of people here have worked with the blind and the disabled, there is no mighty banner cast upon who knows best. But the sheer idea of "And damned if I'll sit back and let a bunch of ignorant rigpigs denigrate and equate mental retardation with visual impairment." is bugging me because no one is putting that 400 dollars for that purpose. Ultimately, like you, I do not take it quite well when people are accusing a whole entire group of people of making fun of the blind.
And for chrissakes it's a charity. This is perfectly (mostly) clean money going to a charity in which people have an honest intention in contributing to their cause. No one has even mentioned a joke of it and anyone who has their go at a tasteless joke is usually cut down.
Lastly, er... since that it said it's going to CNIB in the EJ, I suppose that it's final.
Looks to me as though we need a certain someone from CinO to combine the words "blog" and "jealous" as a catch-all for some of these naysayers.
It's a fine idea Andy, run with it. People who have deception or ill will nearest their heart always suspect same in others.
THAT'S a teachable lesson in this situation too.
It might also be an idea to have a partner in the money portion of this transaction just to protect yourself against idiots who are jealous they didn't think of it.
Hey Grabia, did you email Matheson yourself? I want to know if I should be all giddy for contributing to the publicity.
"People who have deception or ill will nearest their heart always suspect same in others."
I second Lowetide's sentiment - which is particularly poignant given his own concerns over MacT's choice of words.
The suspicion and outrage is really discouraging.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 10:16 am
: November 07, 2006 10:16 am Some very close relatives of mine are blind and I have yet to see any postings here to spark an outrage in me. People need to get rid of their own hate to see the good that has come from this.
The CNIB is a great organization that assists people who have varying degrees of sight problems and they can benefit greatly from any funds collected.
People need to stop being blinded by hatred and think about those that will benefit from a very shoddy call.
Anger should be focussed on the NHL, it's ref'ing and the fact the Oilers were ripped off 1-2 points.
I'm in for $20 as soon as I get home.
People condemn those who take action because they're too scared to take any on their own.
Great work, Andy. On behalf of some of those who will benefit from this donation, I thank you for your thoughtfulness. Good always trumps evil. This is proof.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 10:20 am
: November 07, 2006 10:20 am Matheson??
---
Anyway, I think we can all agree that MacT was at his least eloquent the other day, but in the same breath I'll also say (his political incorrectness aside), he was expressing the frustration of every Oiler fan watching, and probably quite a few hockey fans in general.
I mean, c'mon, we know he wouldn't intentionally say or do anything to offend an entire swath of people, and on a personal level he works with Joey Moss every day.
As for the donations, I think what would be more telling is if the CNIB refuses the money, which I doubt they will.
I can tell you from personal experience in dealing with those differently abled is that the last thing they want is to be treated with kid gloves.
The percussionist Evelyn Glennie just performed at the Winspear a week or so ago. I was reading an article about her and she said she doesn't accept the term deaf or "hearing impaired" to be applied to her. Her abilities are different, and in many cases she can "hear" things that the average person wouldn't even be able to sense.
I think the real crime is in acting as if people with different strengths and weaknesses aren't just as capable, if not more, in handling themselves in our society. Everyone needs a hand in life, some people just need a different type of assistance than others.
I imagine there are quite a few blind Oilers fans out there who were also enraged by the bad call. I would go further and guess that some of them made a joke themselves about Magoo's apparent lack of visual acuity.
Of course, I'll probably never know for sure, but what I do know is that people are people and to act otherwise is to show that one doesn't really respect the differences that make us human, the difference that make us, in the end...all the same.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 10:31 am
: November 07, 2006 10:31 am In this case I think there is a valid concern that does need to be put into context.
Not everyone who has an issue is just trying to "stir it up".
But maybe that's just me.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 12:07 pm
: November 07, 2006 12:07 pm Not to beat a dead horse but I wanted to add a bit of support here.
Nowhere did I see/read/hear anyone "equate mental retardation with visual impairment" - the suggestion that the CNIB would be a good charity to donate these funds to was not made out of any such sentiment.
First of all the CNIB is a good charity to donate to. Period. Arguments? Naysayers? I didn't think so.
Secondly the "reasoning" behind the suggestion (if one must make the leap in some way) would be that a referee should have excellent vision and this one would seem not to. Hence the association with blindness. Tasteless maybe...maybe, but not mean or vindictive.
And yeah, living a block from CNIB headquarters and knowing exactly what a blind friend of mine said after listening to the game on the radio... I'm guessing we're alot more offended than any of them will be.
Give it a rest people.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 12:11 pm
: November 07, 2006 12:11 pm Hey Grabia, did you email Matheson yourself? I want to know if I should be all giddy for contributing to the publicity.
Did he write about or comment on the story somewhere? The story I linked to was written by Mike Sadava.
I've heard rumour that The Bear is going to give their money to the CNIB. Is this true, or are people just confusing the two groups raising the money?
They're probably just JACK'ing your idea... baddum bum ching.
How much are you at anyway? You should do more frequent updates 'Jerry Lewis' style. Gotta keep people excited to see that number rise.
Last I checked, we were at $441.
I want some big dogs to come in and donate some big bucks. No whammies!
Anyone else remember that game show, btw? What was it called again? Big bucks....no whammies....Best game show ever.
I dropped $10 and threw the link on letsgocanes.com to hopefully get some donations coming from the Carolinas.
# posted by : November 07, 2006 5:06 pm
: November 07, 2006 5:06 pm Goil!
At least we got a point.
And at least I got ridiculously drunk.
I love ALL of YOU!
# posted by : November 07, 2006 11:14 pm
: November 07, 2006 11:14 pm Speaking as a visually impaired 24 year old (At 21 I got a blood clot in my right eye, had surgery, now have 75% vision, can read with it, barely, it's really only good for depth perception) I am not in the least offended by the references to the CNIB. In fact, I would go as far as to suggest that those that have expressed objection to the reference likely possess an ulterior motive.
i'm a little late to the party, but I'm in for a bit of cash.
complaining about people donating to a charity under pretty much any circumstances is about as reta-... stuipid as the call that sparked this whole fundraiser in the first place.
# posted by : November 08, 2006 4:15 am
: November 08, 2006 4:15 am Grabia put me down for $25. I hate paypal. Don't worry, T-Rex will reach into his wallet and mail you a cheque.
1) Relax on McGeough's bad call for one minute. Vote on where you think the Hockey mecca is locatd!http://fauxrumors.blogspot.com/2006/11/where-is-hockeys-mecca.html#links
Ummm... Andy?...
Any way you can extend the deadline??? :-D
Stupid paypal still hasn't sent my "random deposit amounts" to verify my bank.
Plus...
I've given a heads up to a couple of crazies... I mean... eccentrics ;-)
MacT and co won't be back till next week. *insert puppy dog eyes smilie here*
Louise
# posted by : November 08, 2006 1:45 pm
: November 08, 2006 1:45 pm Yes, I can extend the deadline, if everyone feels that is kosher, but I won't keep this post at the top anymore.
I just checked the account, and we are at $498! Keep 'er coming.
Totally extend it. But keep a little post at the top so latecomers know it has been extended. Otherwise the volume of writing twixt you and Matt these days will have that post buried in no time and people will never find it.
Also, did that total also include t-rex's promise of a $25 cheque? Way to go on hitting the $500 mark. And way to get the word out icedragon.
Finally got my $20 in, Andy.
Thanx for waiting.
Do you have a plan for delivering the fund? Apparently, theBear is over $5,000.
# posted by : November 09, 2006 12:51 pm
: November 09, 2006 12:51 pm I think the first plan of attack will be to contact the Oilers. But I'll do a quick post once I close this all up and ask people.
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