Hello to the nearly 22,000 flight attendant professionals from Delta and Northwest who will soon be a part of America’s premier global airline! We’re happy to reach out to you for the first time as a team and share some of the plans we are making to bring our two great organizations together. While there is certainly much to do, we can feel growing enthusiasm and excitement among our leaders and our flight attendants about all that we can achieve in building a new Delta. Working together, and using our collective experience and knowledge gained from several past mergers as a guide, we will create an airline that is successful beyond all expectations for us, our customers and our shareholders.
Our leadership teams are currently engaged across the board in planning for the future, considering topics including base operations, onboard product and procedures, training (think 10 different fleets!), scheduling, catering and many others. Each of those teams is progressing well. Like most historic undertakings, this one will require thorough analysis, expert planning, and a lot of hard work by all of us – and a huge helping of patience and heart. If we get this right, we will distinguish ourselves from our competitors in a way that is unparalleled. So, today, we want to thank you for all that you have done recently and over the years to position our airlines for this opportunity.
We realize you have many questions and we don’t have all of the answers yet. But we do want to share a few words about decisions that have been made to date:
Uniforms
The Northwest and Delta teams have been working together for many weeks to prepare for the spring 2009 launch of the Richard Tyler Collection for all Northwest flight attendants.
The collection was designed by world-renowned fashion designer Richard Tyler. He combined a timeless style with new fabrics to create a great look that Delta flight attendants also feel is comfortable, durable and functional. Within the coming days Northwest flight attendants will receive details and instructions on dates, times and locations of upcoming Style Sessions (traditionally known as fit lines) as well as item selection and ordering processes.
OnBoard Product
When the merger transaction has been completed – which we expect by the end of this year – you will begin to see Delta-branded items such as napkins and in-flight magazines on all worldwide Northwest flights. Then, beginning in the spring of 2009, we will “harmonize” our domestic onboard product. That simply means our plan is to offer consistent beverages and menus across the fleet, as well as consistent serving procedures. Products and services offered on our international flights will be harmonized in the summer of 2009. Of course there are many details to be managed and communicated with respect to each of these major initiatives, and we’ll be looking to many of you to help us define and roll-out what will no doubt be a great customer experience.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
An open letter to all passengers (I can't claim that I wrote it but I sure agree with it)
We’re sorry we have no pillows.
We’re sorry we’re out of blankets.
We’re sorry the airplane is too cold.
We’re sorry the airplane is too hot.
We’re sorry the overhead bins are full.
We’re sorry we have no closet space for your oversized bag.
We’re sorry that’s not the seat you wanted.
We’re sorry there’s a restless toddler/overweight/offensive smelling passenger seated next to you.
We’re sorry the plane is full and there are no other seats available.
We’re sorry you didn’t get your upgrade.
We’re sorry that guy makes you uncomfortable because he “looks like a terrorist”.
We’re sorry there’s a thunderstorm and we can’t take off.
We’re sorry we don’t know when it will stop.
We’re sorry you’re crammed into a space so small that if you were an animal PETA would protest.
We’re sorry our plane has no music or video entertainment for your 3 hour flight.
We’re sorry we ran out of your favorite soda.
We’re sorry there are no more sandwiches.
We’re sorry that Budweiser costs $6.
We’re sorry we don’t have diapers for your baby.
We’re sorry we don’t have milk for same baby.
We’re sorry you can’t hang out by the cockpit door waiting to use the bathroom.
We’re sorry you can’t hang out at the back of the airplane.
We’re sorry you have to sit down and fasten your seatbelt.
We’re sorry you have to put your seat up for landing.
We’re sorry we don’t know when we’re going to land.
We’re sorry we don’t know whether your plane to (substitute any city in the world) will be waiting for you when we land.
We’re sorry we’ve been diverted because we ran out of gas waiting to land.
We’re sorry for these and so many other things that we have absolutely no control over but which we are held accountable for EVERY SINGLE DAY.
Please understand. Flight attendants are not the enemy. We share your space. More than anyone - we want to have a nice, pleasant travel experience.
There is a reason behind everything we ask you to do. It may be a FAA directive. It may be security related. It may be a company procedure.
We don’t just make stuff up. We don’t spend 8 weeks at the flight academy learning how to pour a Coke. There are many things that flight attendants are watching for constantly on every flight FOR YOUR SAFETY. It’s not because we’re bored or so controlling that we just enjoy telling people what to do.
I, for one, would like to have one flight where I didn’t have to repeatedly tell people to put their seats up for landing. Seriously. Can’t you just do what we ask sometimes? Without the glares, eye rolling and disdain? For the record - putting your seat up for landing may not seem that important to your personal safety. However, it is very important for the person sitting BEHIND YOU. If you have ever tried to get out of a row where someone has their seat back you know it can be a challenge. Try grabbing your ankles (emergency brace position) or getting out of that row quickly with smoke in the cabin.
Understand a little better now?
Many of the things we ask passengers to comply with are FAA directives. Like carry-on bag stowage and exit row requirements. And like when we can serve drinks (in the air) and when we can’t (after the aircraft door is closed or on an active taxiway). We are only allowed to move about the cabin during taxi out for safety related duties. We can’t get you blankets, or hang coats, or get you drinks. It’s not because we don’t want to. It’s because we are held personally responsible if we fail to comply with FAA directives. Meaning that the FAA can fine us personally up to $10,000 if we fail to comply with or enforce an FAA Directive.
Like no bags at the bulkhead. No children in the exit row. No one moving around the cabin during taxi. Perhaps now you know why flight attendants get a little testy when people move about the cabin when they’re not supposed to. It’s not the company that gets in trouble for that. It’s us.
Personally, I wish the airlines would show worst case scenario safety videos. Like what happens if you walk through the cabin during turbulence. There could be a guy who has just fallen and smacked his face on the metal armrest and now has a bloody, gushing broken nose. Or an elderly lady who now has a broken arm because someone walking to the bathroom fell on her.
Maybe a passenger with a broken neck because somebody opened an overhead bin during turbulence and a suitcase fell out and onto the person sitting beneath it. These things can easily happen in a fast moving, unstable air environment.
Please just trust that we are looking out for your best interest and stop fighting with us about everything we ask you to do. It is exhausting.
Finally, please, please direct your hostility and frustrations in the direction where they will be most effective: The customer service department. They are the ones equipped to handle your complaint and implement procedures for CHANGE.
Think about it. Complaining to the flight crew about all your negative travel experiences is about the same as complaining to the office janitor because your computer isn’t working. It may make you feel better to vent about it - but it really won’t fix anything. More than anybody we are already aware of the lack of amenities, food, service and comfort on the aircraft. Please share your concerns with the people in the cubicles at corporate who need that information to make better decisions for the flying public.
It’s frustrating that so many people are in denial about what the travel industry is about now. The glory days of pillows, blankets, magazines and a hot meal for everyone are long gone. Our job is to get you from point A to point B safely and at the cheapest possible cost to you and the company. So be prepared. If you are hungry - get a sandwich before you get on the plane.
If it’s a 3 hour flight, anticipate that you may get hungry and bring some snacks. If you are cold natured - bring a wrap. Think for yourself and think ahead. Otherwise, don’t complain when you have to pay $3 for a cookie and are left with a crusty blanket to keep you warm.
We hear often that the service just isn’t what it used to be. Well, the SERVICE we get to provide now isn’t what it used to be. When I was hired, my job was to serve drinks, meals, ensure that safety requirements were met and tend to in-flight medical issues.
Since 9/11 my primary job is to ensure that my airplane will not be compromised by a terrorist. 9/11 may be a distant memory now to many, but be assured that EVERY DAY a flight attendant reports to work he or she is constantly thinking about 9/11. We feel a personal responsibility to ensure that something like that never happens again. We can never relax. We can never not be suspicious about someone’s intentions.
It is difficult to be vigilant and gregarious at the same time. Especially when most of us are working 12 hour days after layovers that only allow 5-6 hours of sleep. Not because we were out partying and having a grand time on the layover - but because the delays that you experience as a passenger also affect us as a crew, so that what was a 10 hour layover is now 8 hours which doesn’t leave a lot of time to recover from what has become an increasingly stressful occupation.
Despite everything, I still enjoy being a flight attendant.
I am writing this letter because I do still care about my profession and about the public perception of flight attendants. In the increasingly challenging travel world it is becoming more imperative than ever for people to just be decent to each other. I can go through an entire day without one person saying anything remotely civil. I will stand at the aircraft door and say hello to everyone who enters and maybe 50% will even look at me and even less will say hello back.
I will try to serve someone a meal who can’t be bothered to take their headsets off long enough for me to ask them what they want. Most of the time the only conversation a passenger has with me is when they are complaining.
Is it any wonder why flight attendants have shut down a bit? After suffering the disdain of hundreds of passengers a day it’s difficult sometimes to even smile, much less interact. We are human. We appreciate the same respect and courtesy that passengers do.
The next time you fly, try treating the flight attendants the way you would like to be treated. You may be surprised how friendly your flight crew is when they are treated like people.
We’re sorry we’re out of blankets.
We’re sorry the airplane is too cold.
We’re sorry the airplane is too hot.
We’re sorry the overhead bins are full.
We’re sorry we have no closet space for your oversized bag.
We’re sorry that’s not the seat you wanted.
We’re sorry there’s a restless toddler/overweight/offensive smelling passenger seated next to you.
We’re sorry the plane is full and there are no other seats available.
We’re sorry you didn’t get your upgrade.
We’re sorry that guy makes you uncomfortable because he “looks like a terrorist”.
We’re sorry there’s a thunderstorm and we can’t take off.
We’re sorry we don’t know when it will stop.
We’re sorry you’re crammed into a space so small that if you were an animal PETA would protest.
We’re sorry our plane has no music or video entertainment for your 3 hour flight.
We’re sorry we ran out of your favorite soda.
We’re sorry there are no more sandwiches.
We’re sorry that Budweiser costs $6.
We’re sorry we don’t have diapers for your baby.
We’re sorry we don’t have milk for same baby.
We’re sorry you can’t hang out by the cockpit door waiting to use the bathroom.
We’re sorry you can’t hang out at the back of the airplane.
We’re sorry you have to sit down and fasten your seatbelt.
We’re sorry you have to put your seat up for landing.
We’re sorry we don’t know when we’re going to land.
We’re sorry we don’t know whether your plane to (substitute any city in the world) will be waiting for you when we land.
We’re sorry we’ve been diverted because we ran out of gas waiting to land.
We’re sorry for these and so many other things that we have absolutely no control over but which we are held accountable for EVERY SINGLE DAY.
Please understand. Flight attendants are not the enemy. We share your space. More than anyone - we want to have a nice, pleasant travel experience.
There is a reason behind everything we ask you to do. It may be a FAA directive. It may be security related. It may be a company procedure.
We don’t just make stuff up. We don’t spend 8 weeks at the flight academy learning how to pour a Coke. There are many things that flight attendants are watching for constantly on every flight FOR YOUR SAFETY. It’s not because we’re bored or so controlling that we just enjoy telling people what to do.
I, for one, would like to have one flight where I didn’t have to repeatedly tell people to put their seats up for landing. Seriously. Can’t you just do what we ask sometimes? Without the glares, eye rolling and disdain? For the record - putting your seat up for landing may not seem that important to your personal safety. However, it is very important for the person sitting BEHIND YOU. If you have ever tried to get out of a row where someone has their seat back you know it can be a challenge. Try grabbing your ankles (emergency brace position) or getting out of that row quickly with smoke in the cabin.
Understand a little better now?
Many of the things we ask passengers to comply with are FAA directives. Like carry-on bag stowage and exit row requirements. And like when we can serve drinks (in the air) and when we can’t (after the aircraft door is closed or on an active taxiway). We are only allowed to move about the cabin during taxi out for safety related duties. We can’t get you blankets, or hang coats, or get you drinks. It’s not because we don’t want to. It’s because we are held personally responsible if we fail to comply with FAA directives. Meaning that the FAA can fine us personally up to $10,000 if we fail to comply with or enforce an FAA Directive.
Like no bags at the bulkhead. No children in the exit row. No one moving around the cabin during taxi. Perhaps now you know why flight attendants get a little testy when people move about the cabin when they’re not supposed to. It’s not the company that gets in trouble for that. It’s us.
Personally, I wish the airlines would show worst case scenario safety videos. Like what happens if you walk through the cabin during turbulence. There could be a guy who has just fallen and smacked his face on the metal armrest and now has a bloody, gushing broken nose. Or an elderly lady who now has a broken arm because someone walking to the bathroom fell on her.
Maybe a passenger with a broken neck because somebody opened an overhead bin during turbulence and a suitcase fell out and onto the person sitting beneath it. These things can easily happen in a fast moving, unstable air environment.
Please just trust that we are looking out for your best interest and stop fighting with us about everything we ask you to do. It is exhausting.
Finally, please, please direct your hostility and frustrations in the direction where they will be most effective: The customer service department. They are the ones equipped to handle your complaint and implement procedures for CHANGE.
Think about it. Complaining to the flight crew about all your negative travel experiences is about the same as complaining to the office janitor because your computer isn’t working. It may make you feel better to vent about it - but it really won’t fix anything. More than anybody we are already aware of the lack of amenities, food, service and comfort on the aircraft. Please share your concerns with the people in the cubicles at corporate who need that information to make better decisions for the flying public.
It’s frustrating that so many people are in denial about what the travel industry is about now. The glory days of pillows, blankets, magazines and a hot meal for everyone are long gone. Our job is to get you from point A to point B safely and at the cheapest possible cost to you and the company. So be prepared. If you are hungry - get a sandwich before you get on the plane.
If it’s a 3 hour flight, anticipate that you may get hungry and bring some snacks. If you are cold natured - bring a wrap. Think for yourself and think ahead. Otherwise, don’t complain when you have to pay $3 for a cookie and are left with a crusty blanket to keep you warm.
We hear often that the service just isn’t what it used to be. Well, the SERVICE we get to provide now isn’t what it used to be. When I was hired, my job was to serve drinks, meals, ensure that safety requirements were met and tend to in-flight medical issues.
Since 9/11 my primary job is to ensure that my airplane will not be compromised by a terrorist. 9/11 may be a distant memory now to many, but be assured that EVERY DAY a flight attendant reports to work he or she is constantly thinking about 9/11. We feel a personal responsibility to ensure that something like that never happens again. We can never relax. We can never not be suspicious about someone’s intentions.
It is difficult to be vigilant and gregarious at the same time. Especially when most of us are working 12 hour days after layovers that only allow 5-6 hours of sleep. Not because we were out partying and having a grand time on the layover - but because the delays that you experience as a passenger also affect us as a crew, so that what was a 10 hour layover is now 8 hours which doesn’t leave a lot of time to recover from what has become an increasingly stressful occupation.
Despite everything, I still enjoy being a flight attendant.
I am writing this letter because I do still care about my profession and about the public perception of flight attendants. In the increasingly challenging travel world it is becoming more imperative than ever for people to just be decent to each other. I can go through an entire day without one person saying anything remotely civil. I will stand at the aircraft door and say hello to everyone who enters and maybe 50% will even look at me and even less will say hello back.
I will try to serve someone a meal who can’t be bothered to take their headsets off long enough for me to ask them what they want. Most of the time the only conversation a passenger has with me is when they are complaining.
Is it any wonder why flight attendants have shut down a bit? After suffering the disdain of hundreds of passengers a day it’s difficult sometimes to even smile, much less interact. We are human. We appreciate the same respect and courtesy that passengers do.
The next time you fly, try treating the flight attendants the way you would like to be treated. You may be surprised how friendly your flight crew is when they are treated like people.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Thursday, July 24, 2008
From Rivals.com
WVU's 2008 football preview. Enjoy!
OFFENSE
THE SCHEME: Coach Rich Rodriguez is gone, but his power-spread option remains alive and well in Morgantown. New coordinator Jeff Mullen is putting his stamp on things. He has tweaked the system, installing more motion and promising to amp up the passing. Expect more deep passes down the middle in an effort to bring more balance to what already is a devastatingly good offense.
Sophomore running back Noel Devine should receive more extensive work this season.
STAR POWER: Senior quarterback Pat White is a wondrous wizard who is capable of scoring anytime he carries the ball. He carried 197 times last season for 1,395 yards (that's 6.8 yards per tote!) with 14 TDs, and he needs just 724 yards to become the top rushing quarterback in NCAA history. But he left two games (USF, Pitt) early with injury, and WVU - not so coincidentally - lost both. The Mountaineers can't afford for White to get hurt, which is why Stewart has vowed to have White pass more often. With the passing game more of an emphasis, don't be shocked if White – who is an underrated thrower – enjoys the first 2,000-yard passing season of his career.
IMPACT NEWCOMER: Watch out for redshirt freshman wide receiver Bradley Starks. The former third-string quarterback now is a first-string receiver. This team needs some big-play receivers to stretch the field and keep defenses honest. Starks has great speed and has been a quick study when it comes to running routes and catching the ball.
IT'S HIS TIME: Running back Steve Slaton left early for the NFL, but few in Morgantown are fretting. That's because Slaton's departure has created more touches for sophomore running back Noel Devine. In limited duty last season as a true freshman, Devine averaged 8.6 yards per carry en route to running for 627 yards on 73 carries. The diminutive dynamo (5-8/173) is a true game-changer and ankle-breaker who is outstanding in the open field. But depth at tailback is dicey, so it's vital the staff not overwork Devine.
STRONGEST AREA: This will be one of the nation's top lines. The top eight players return from a unit that helped the Mountaineers rank No. 3 in the nation in rushing and No. 9 in scoring. The unit also yielded just 13 sacks, the fifth fewest in I-A. The unquestioned star is left tackle Ryan Stanchek, the epitome of the quick, mobile lineman WVU has become known for. He teams on the left side with guard Greg Isdaner to form a dynamic duo. Both will contend for All-America accolades. The spot with the most competition is right tackle, where Stephen Maw is battling Selvish Capers.
BIGGEST PROBLEM: With Stewart committed to throwing more, some viable targets need to emerge. Last year's top receiver, Darius Reynaud, is gone. Staffers like the potential of Dorrell Jalloh, who had 24 catches in 2007. And at 6-8, Wes Lyons is a mismatch waiting to happen and a threat in the red zone. Also keep an eye on Tito Gonzales, a speedster who showed home-run ability in the Fiesta Bowl with a 79-yard TD catch. Don't forget about Starks. The tight end spot was neglected and ignored under Rodriguez. No more. Redshirt freshman Will Johnson converted to tight end from receiver and is the school's most promising prospect at the position since Anthony Becht. Johnson also will double as a fullback, where there's a massive void with Owen Schmitt gone. Not only was Schmitt a devastating blocker, he also was a good receiver, effective with the odd carry and a fan favorite.
OVERVIEW: The pieces are in place for this again to be one of the nation's most productive offenses. White and Devine are ultra-explosive weapons, and a standout line is in place to pave the way. It's vital the passing game develops so opponents can't stuff the box with an extra defender. And it goes without saying that White must remain healthy. Without him, West Virginia becomes ordinary.
33-5
That's West Virginia's record from 2005-07. The only school that has a better mark over that span is USC (34-5).
GRADE: A
DEFENSE
THE SCHEME: Coordinator Jeff Casteel didn't follow Rodriguez to Michigan, which means his 3-3-5 stack defense remains the norm. But Casteel has work to do with seven starters gone. Casteel is a master when it comes to scheming and tweaking his funky formation, showing an array of blitz packages that keep offense off-guard.
STAR POWER: Take your pick between linebackers Reed Williams and Mortty Ivy. Neither is spectacular, but both are sound, fundamental players who rarely are out of place. Their presence and production is vital since the linebacking corps is the anchor and heart of WVU's defense. Williams is an anchor in the middle who can stand his ground and stuff the run, while Ivy works on the edge taking on tight ends and has proved adept in coverage.
IMPACT NEWCOMER: Staffers are excited about redshirt freshman end Julian Miller. He flashed great ability as an edge rusher in the spring. At 6-5 and 220 pounds, he's a rangy athlete and could help a unit looking for pass rushers. Once he adds bulk, Miller will be a complete end capable of stuffing the run.
LB Reed Williams was named defensive MVP of West Virginia's Fiesta Bowl win over Oklahoma.
IT'S HIS TIME: Sophomore outside linebacker J.T. Thomas is primed to break out in 2008. He was all over the field late last season, making plays sideline to sideline. That quickness makes Thomas effective playing in space and dropping into coverage. He picked up where he left off in the spring, exciting coaches with his potential as a playmaker.
STRONGEST AREA: The linebacking corps has teeth with the return of starters Williams (107 tackles) and Ivy (89). The duo finished 1-2 on the team in tackles last season. Don't be shocked if the speedy Ivy, who is moving from the weakside to the strongside, emerges as an All-Big East player. Thomas is slated to start at weakside 'backer. But this unit will have a difficult time enjoying another tackle-filled season if the new starters replacing end Johnny Dingle and tackle Keilen Dykes flop at the point of attack.
BIGGEST PROBLEM: The secondary remains a work in progress, with four of five starters gone. And it didn't help when safety Charles Pugh was booted from the team. The one sure thing is bandit safety Quinton Andrews. He has developed into one of the Big East's most feared hitters but must stay motivated and focused. The rest of the secondary needs to develop. It's especially critical for corners Ellis Lankster and Kent Richardson to adapt quickly to starting roles.
OVERVIEW: This unit lacks depth across the board, so staying healthy is imperative. The front six looks salty, especially the linebackers. The key will be developing a cohesive and solid secondary. But it may be even more important for two new starters along the line to emerge alongside rising star Scooter Berry. The big guys have to stop the run and get some pressure.
GRADE: C
SPECIAL TEAMS
Pat McAfee punts and kicks, and is good at both. Last season, McAfee was 13 of 19 on field-goal attempts and averaged 42.7 yards per punt. Just 21 of his 46 punts were returned – and those went for an average of just 5.3 yards. WVU has no shortage of fleet, capable options in the return game. Devine showed his skills on kickoffs last season, averaging 23.3 yards, but he may be held back to preserve his juice for offense. Keep an eye on Jock Sanders, a burner who could emerge on returns.
GRADE: A
COACHING
Go ahead, call Bill Stewart the accidental coach. Mock his failed three-year run as VMI's coach from 1994-96. He doesn't care. Stewart was in the right place at the right time, serving as interim coach in the Fiesta Bowl and promptly guiding the Mountaineers to a stunning victory over Oklahoma. It was enough to get him the job on a full-time basis. Many of Rodriguez's former assistants followed him to Michigan, forcing Stewart to retool the staff. On offense, he hired Jeff Mullen from Wake Forest to coordinate. Ace recruiter Doc Holliday was brought on board from Florida as assistant head coach/tight ends/fullbacks. He previously coached at WVU for 20 years under Don Nehlen. Former Georgia tight ends coach Dave Johnson, who played for Nehlen in Morgantown, is WVU's third offensive line coach in three years. Up-and-coming Chris Beatty came from Northern Illinois as running backs coach. Lonnie Galloway was hired from Appalachian State to coach receivers. The defensive staff added former Kentucky assistant David Lockwood, a WVU alum who coached under Nehlen in 2000, as cornerbacks coach. Lockwood was defensive coordinator for two years (2005-06) at Minnesota. Former Marshall defensive coordinator Steve Dunlap was tabbed as assistant head coach/safeties coach. He spent almost 20 years at WVU under Nehlen and also has been a coordinator at Syracuse and North Carolina State. The lone holdovers along with Stewart are Casteel, who was Rivals' defensive coordinator of the year in 2007, and defensive line coach Bill Kirelawich, who has been at WVU for more than 30 years.
GRADE: B
DATE OPPONENT
Aug. 30 Villanova
Sept. 6 at East Carolina
Sept. 18 at Colorado
Sept. 27 Marshall
Oct. 4 Rutgers
Oct. 11 Syracuse
Oct. 23 Auburn
Nov. 1 at Connecticut
Nov. 8 Cincinnati
Nov. 22 at Louisville
Nov. 28 at Pittsburgh
Dec. 6 vs. USF
SCHEDULE
Any march to greatness won't be easy, beginning with consecutive trips in September to East Carolina and Colorado. It's vital the Mountaineers make hay during a four-game home stretch from Sept. 27 to Oct. 23. Splitting those games could be daunting, considering two of the foes are Rutgers and Auburn. But WVU has beaten the Scarlet Knights 13 times in a row, and has whipped an SEC foe in each of the past three seasons. It all could come down to the last two games. The "Backyard Brawl" at Pitt could be a de facto Big East championship game, with West Virginia aching to pay back the Panthers for costing them a shot at the BCS title game last season. But West Virginia needs to have something left in its tank for a season-ending visit from USF, which has stymied and stuffed WVU each of the past two seasons.
OUTLOOK
The messy divorce from Rodriguez finally is settled. West Virginia lost a great coach but will get its $4 million buyout. Fans also may get to gloat a bit because the Mountaineers have legit national title hopes. Michigan? It looks like a long year for Rich Rod. Stewart takes over a program that has gone to three consecutive January bowls and finished in the top 10 in each of those seasons. And the 41 victories over the past four seasons is the best run in school history. Bottom line: Things are rolling for a program that is gunning for its fifth Big East crown in six seasons, and Stewart doesn't want to mess them up. If the defense can play a little better than average, the Mountaineers have more than enough offense to advance to the BCS title game they came so close to reaching last season before that crushing home loss to Pitt in the regular-season finale.
OFFENSE
THE SCHEME: Coach Rich Rodriguez is gone, but his power-spread option remains alive and well in Morgantown. New coordinator Jeff Mullen is putting his stamp on things. He has tweaked the system, installing more motion and promising to amp up the passing. Expect more deep passes down the middle in an effort to bring more balance to what already is a devastatingly good offense.
Sophomore running back Noel Devine should receive more extensive work this season.
STAR POWER: Senior quarterback Pat White is a wondrous wizard who is capable of scoring anytime he carries the ball. He carried 197 times last season for 1,395 yards (that's 6.8 yards per tote!) with 14 TDs, and he needs just 724 yards to become the top rushing quarterback in NCAA history. But he left two games (USF, Pitt) early with injury, and WVU - not so coincidentally - lost both. The Mountaineers can't afford for White to get hurt, which is why Stewart has vowed to have White pass more often. With the passing game more of an emphasis, don't be shocked if White – who is an underrated thrower – enjoys the first 2,000-yard passing season of his career.
IMPACT NEWCOMER: Watch out for redshirt freshman wide receiver Bradley Starks. The former third-string quarterback now is a first-string receiver. This team needs some big-play receivers to stretch the field and keep defenses honest. Starks has great speed and has been a quick study when it comes to running routes and catching the ball.
IT'S HIS TIME: Running back Steve Slaton left early for the NFL, but few in Morgantown are fretting. That's because Slaton's departure has created more touches for sophomore running back Noel Devine. In limited duty last season as a true freshman, Devine averaged 8.6 yards per carry en route to running for 627 yards on 73 carries. The diminutive dynamo (5-8/173) is a true game-changer and ankle-breaker who is outstanding in the open field. But depth at tailback is dicey, so it's vital the staff not overwork Devine.
STRONGEST AREA: This will be one of the nation's top lines. The top eight players return from a unit that helped the Mountaineers rank No. 3 in the nation in rushing and No. 9 in scoring. The unit also yielded just 13 sacks, the fifth fewest in I-A. The unquestioned star is left tackle Ryan Stanchek, the epitome of the quick, mobile lineman WVU has become known for. He teams on the left side with guard Greg Isdaner to form a dynamic duo. Both will contend for All-America accolades. The spot with the most competition is right tackle, where Stephen Maw is battling Selvish Capers.
BIGGEST PROBLEM: With Stewart committed to throwing more, some viable targets need to emerge. Last year's top receiver, Darius Reynaud, is gone. Staffers like the potential of Dorrell Jalloh, who had 24 catches in 2007. And at 6-8, Wes Lyons is a mismatch waiting to happen and a threat in the red zone. Also keep an eye on Tito Gonzales, a speedster who showed home-run ability in the Fiesta Bowl with a 79-yard TD catch. Don't forget about Starks. The tight end spot was neglected and ignored under Rodriguez. No more. Redshirt freshman Will Johnson converted to tight end from receiver and is the school's most promising prospect at the position since Anthony Becht. Johnson also will double as a fullback, where there's a massive void with Owen Schmitt gone. Not only was Schmitt a devastating blocker, he also was a good receiver, effective with the odd carry and a fan favorite.
OVERVIEW: The pieces are in place for this again to be one of the nation's most productive offenses. White and Devine are ultra-explosive weapons, and a standout line is in place to pave the way. It's vital the passing game develops so opponents can't stuff the box with an extra defender. And it goes without saying that White must remain healthy. Without him, West Virginia becomes ordinary.
33-5
That's West Virginia's record from 2005-07. The only school that has a better mark over that span is USC (34-5).
GRADE: A
DEFENSE
THE SCHEME: Coordinator Jeff Casteel didn't follow Rodriguez to Michigan, which means his 3-3-5 stack defense remains the norm. But Casteel has work to do with seven starters gone. Casteel is a master when it comes to scheming and tweaking his funky formation, showing an array of blitz packages that keep offense off-guard.
STAR POWER: Take your pick between linebackers Reed Williams and Mortty Ivy. Neither is spectacular, but both are sound, fundamental players who rarely are out of place. Their presence and production is vital since the linebacking corps is the anchor and heart of WVU's defense. Williams is an anchor in the middle who can stand his ground and stuff the run, while Ivy works on the edge taking on tight ends and has proved adept in coverage.
IMPACT NEWCOMER: Staffers are excited about redshirt freshman end Julian Miller. He flashed great ability as an edge rusher in the spring. At 6-5 and 220 pounds, he's a rangy athlete and could help a unit looking for pass rushers. Once he adds bulk, Miller will be a complete end capable of stuffing the run.
LB Reed Williams was named defensive MVP of West Virginia's Fiesta Bowl win over Oklahoma.
IT'S HIS TIME: Sophomore outside linebacker J.T. Thomas is primed to break out in 2008. He was all over the field late last season, making plays sideline to sideline. That quickness makes Thomas effective playing in space and dropping into coverage. He picked up where he left off in the spring, exciting coaches with his potential as a playmaker.
STRONGEST AREA: The linebacking corps has teeth with the return of starters Williams (107 tackles) and Ivy (89). The duo finished 1-2 on the team in tackles last season. Don't be shocked if the speedy Ivy, who is moving from the weakside to the strongside, emerges as an All-Big East player. Thomas is slated to start at weakside 'backer. But this unit will have a difficult time enjoying another tackle-filled season if the new starters replacing end Johnny Dingle and tackle Keilen Dykes flop at the point of attack.
BIGGEST PROBLEM: The secondary remains a work in progress, with four of five starters gone. And it didn't help when safety Charles Pugh was booted from the team. The one sure thing is bandit safety Quinton Andrews. He has developed into one of the Big East's most feared hitters but must stay motivated and focused. The rest of the secondary needs to develop. It's especially critical for corners Ellis Lankster and Kent Richardson to adapt quickly to starting roles.
OVERVIEW: This unit lacks depth across the board, so staying healthy is imperative. The front six looks salty, especially the linebackers. The key will be developing a cohesive and solid secondary. But it may be even more important for two new starters along the line to emerge alongside rising star Scooter Berry. The big guys have to stop the run and get some pressure.
GRADE: C
SPECIAL TEAMS
Pat McAfee punts and kicks, and is good at both. Last season, McAfee was 13 of 19 on field-goal attempts and averaged 42.7 yards per punt. Just 21 of his 46 punts were returned – and those went for an average of just 5.3 yards. WVU has no shortage of fleet, capable options in the return game. Devine showed his skills on kickoffs last season, averaging 23.3 yards, but he may be held back to preserve his juice for offense. Keep an eye on Jock Sanders, a burner who could emerge on returns.
GRADE: A
COACHING
Go ahead, call Bill Stewart the accidental coach. Mock his failed three-year run as VMI's coach from 1994-96. He doesn't care. Stewart was in the right place at the right time, serving as interim coach in the Fiesta Bowl and promptly guiding the Mountaineers to a stunning victory over Oklahoma. It was enough to get him the job on a full-time basis. Many of Rodriguez's former assistants followed him to Michigan, forcing Stewart to retool the staff. On offense, he hired Jeff Mullen from Wake Forest to coordinate. Ace recruiter Doc Holliday was brought on board from Florida as assistant head coach/tight ends/fullbacks. He previously coached at WVU for 20 years under Don Nehlen. Former Georgia tight ends coach Dave Johnson, who played for Nehlen in Morgantown, is WVU's third offensive line coach in three years. Up-and-coming Chris Beatty came from Northern Illinois as running backs coach. Lonnie Galloway was hired from Appalachian State to coach receivers. The defensive staff added former Kentucky assistant David Lockwood, a WVU alum who coached under Nehlen in 2000, as cornerbacks coach. Lockwood was defensive coordinator for two years (2005-06) at Minnesota. Former Marshall defensive coordinator Steve Dunlap was tabbed as assistant head coach/safeties coach. He spent almost 20 years at WVU under Nehlen and also has been a coordinator at Syracuse and North Carolina State. The lone holdovers along with Stewart are Casteel, who was Rivals' defensive coordinator of the year in 2007, and defensive line coach Bill Kirelawich, who has been at WVU for more than 30 years.
GRADE: B
DATE OPPONENT
Aug. 30 Villanova
Sept. 6 at East Carolina
Sept. 18 at Colorado
Sept. 27 Marshall
Oct. 4 Rutgers
Oct. 11 Syracuse
Oct. 23 Auburn
Nov. 1 at Connecticut
Nov. 8 Cincinnati
Nov. 22 at Louisville
Nov. 28 at Pittsburgh
Dec. 6 vs. USF
SCHEDULE
Any march to greatness won't be easy, beginning with consecutive trips in September to East Carolina and Colorado. It's vital the Mountaineers make hay during a four-game home stretch from Sept. 27 to Oct. 23. Splitting those games could be daunting, considering two of the foes are Rutgers and Auburn. But WVU has beaten the Scarlet Knights 13 times in a row, and has whipped an SEC foe in each of the past three seasons. It all could come down to the last two games. The "Backyard Brawl" at Pitt could be a de facto Big East championship game, with West Virginia aching to pay back the Panthers for costing them a shot at the BCS title game last season. But West Virginia needs to have something left in its tank for a season-ending visit from USF, which has stymied and stuffed WVU each of the past two seasons.
OUTLOOK
The messy divorce from Rodriguez finally is settled. West Virginia lost a great coach but will get its $4 million buyout. Fans also may get to gloat a bit because the Mountaineers have legit national title hopes. Michigan? It looks like a long year for Rich Rod. Stewart takes over a program that has gone to three consecutive January bowls and finished in the top 10 in each of those seasons. And the 41 victories over the past four seasons is the best run in school history. Bottom line: Things are rolling for a program that is gunning for its fifth Big East crown in six seasons, and Stewart doesn't want to mess them up. If the defense can play a little better than average, the Mountaineers have more than enough offense to advance to the BCS title game they came so close to reaching last season before that crushing home loss to Pitt in the regular-season finale.
My recent trip to Amsterdam
I went to Amsterdam earlier this week and hopped on a train and went out to Haarlem which is only about a 15 minute train ride out of the city. It was a very nice way to spend a day. Another crew member took the pictures in the first set and was gracious enough to send them to me, the second set are pictures that I took. Enjoy them!
Some interesting facts about The Bavo Church pictured below
The Pipes have 68 registers and 5068 PIPES!!
The construction of the present church started in 1347
The Church became a protestant church in 1578
The organ was installed in 1735
Some interesting facts about The Bavo Church pictured below
The Pipes have 68 registers and 5068 PIPES!!
The construction of the present church started in 1347
The Church became a protestant church in 1578
The organ was installed in 1735
Visit To Canaan Valley
Was in West Virginia for a week recently and got to go to my 20th class reunion and spend a few days in Canaan Valley with my cousins. I've got pictures of the reunion coming but here are some pics of my three days in Canaan. For those of you that haven't gotten to visit the place, please enjoy the pictures, it is spectacular and will forever be one of my favorite places on the planet.
Friday, July 18, 2008
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