I will be at Badfish Billiards in Matthews this Wednesday around 7pm helping a brand new team of people out of a brand new bar learn about 8 Ball Express - scoring, handicaps, etc. Come on out for some fun if you are interested. I promise to be drinking and B&S-ing for pretty much the whole time. Come join in the merriment! :)
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Wishing You and Yours...
I will be at Badfish Billiards in Matthews this Wednesday around 7pm helping a brand new team of people out of a brand new bar learn about 8 Ball Express - scoring, handicaps, etc. Come on out for some fun if you are interested. I promise to be drinking and B&S-ing for pretty much the whole time. Come join in the merriment! :)
Sunday, December 13, 2009
True "1" Test
How to Chalk a Billiard Cue -- powered by eHow.com
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Playoffs Got You Wound Up?
Good for a chuckle in the middle of these very serious playoff times:
http://www.hulu.com/watch/101512/saturday-night-live-ladies-billards
Monday, December 7, 2009
Rack 'Em Pub & Billiards - Matthews, NC
This upcoming session there are a few openings you may be interested in. If you want to play, please let Bob/Blake, the bartender or us know before week's end.
Space availability is first come/first serve.
Sundays - Inhouse 8-Ball. There is an opening for a team and possibly a few slots for players. Great relaxed division and a great way to start the week!
Mondays - May have some availability for a travel 8-ball team.
Tuesdays - Travel 8-ball and 9-ball. Travel is contained pretty much to a five mile radius and lots of fun.
Wednesdays - Travel 8-ball. Travel is contained in a five mile radius.
Thursdays - Inhouse 8-ball & 9-ball travel. With the addition of 3 more 9-ball teams an inhouse could be created. This Inhouse 8-ball division produced last Winter's $10,000 winning team, so the competition is high but the people are friendly.
Email info@8ballexpress.com for more info.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Playoffs Are Coming!
- Two people will step to the table, one will win and one will not. Accept this and move on. Do not talk bad about their mother or question their moral up bringing if you loose. You just look silly and I may have to laugh at you and include you in a future blog post.
- I don't care how good a player is or what your put up strategy is, if a player is drunk or drinking heavily, play them early or not at all, then call a cab. You can check with the bartender before hand if not sure or make them do a practice lag to judge. If the ball flies off the table, ends up in a pocket or they try to lag with a coaster, just go ahead and bench them. They probably weren't going to win anyways.
- The rules are the same in post season as in regular season. Keep this in mind during the regular season AND the post season. While it's not right, if during weeks 1-13 you've let opposing teams go over the handicap limit, take 20 minute time outs, run late and then weeks 14-playoffs turn around and hold them to every rule in the book, don't be surprised if they don't exactly send you a Christmas card or ask for a group hug when it's all over. How about, for the most part, sticking to the rules through the Session to avoid this sudden change of good will. This will help people learn rules and hopefully avoid unnecessary confrontation. Chances are you will see your opponents again/play against them after all is said and done, so treat them accordingly.
- Week 2 of the Playoffs is not the optimal time to bring up handicap questions. If you see something Playoff Week 2 you've never seen before, like a 2 running racks, ok then, it is the optimal time. But if you've known/suspected for a while that a handicap is not right, let us know as soon as you can. If you know something isn't right the ENTIRE Session or even the 2nd half of it, but only let us know if your team looses AFTER the matches are all done, the situation is a lot messier than it has to be. We can handle the issues much better if we know there may be an issue AHEAD of time. Contact kim@8ballexpress.com right now if you have a handicap complaint or if you think there may be another issue at a match coming up.
- Don't take out your issues/stress/problems on your opposing team or your league manager. Hey, we've all got problems these days. How about you leave yours at home and let everyone have a good time! If you can't don't be surprised if you are removed from the league. One bad grape will not be allowed to spoil a bunch (or a division).
- 8 Ball Express is competitive but above all else it's about coming out each week and having a good time.
Now, good luck and have fun!
Friday, November 27, 2009
New Divisions Forming For Jan 2010 Play!
New Divisions:
* There will be a Wednesday 8-ball Inhouse out of Sharky's in Mint Hill with a min.
of 6 teams. If you are interested, let Sharky's or me know.
* New Tuesday 8-ball Travel Division forming on the North/West Side of Town. New locations include an awesome new bar that recently opened in the old Derita Station location. It's now "Da Bear's Den" (as in The Chicago Bear's) and they really did a great job with remolding and offer a full kitchen, patio and tons of tvs. Let them know if you want to play Tuesday 8-ball travel.
* Open spot in Tuesday 9-ball travel for 1-3 teams.
* New teams forming out of the recently opened "Bad Fish Billiards" in downtown Matthews. Check with Danny Caldwell for more info. Travel any night S-Th 8-ball or travel Tues/Thurs 9-ball.
* New locations joining and looking for a few members such as Yesteryear's, Five Steps, Sharky's, Da Bear's Den, Bear's Lair, Jillian's, Bad Fish Billiards and a few others. If you are interested, email me at dawn@8ballexpress.com.
There are some more things in the works and we are VERY excited about 2010 and hope you are too!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
The Video Encyclopedia of Pool Shots
"I'm very excited to announce the release of the first DVD in an instructional series I've been working on with Tom Ross this past year. The series is called: The Video Encyclopedia of Pool Shots. If you are interested in checking it out, I have a video trailer for the entire series near the bottom of the page here:
http://www.dr-dave-billiards.com/veps/
The first disc, which includes 1 hour and 27 minutes of video, covers basic shot making and position play. Video excerpts for a collection of shots from the DVD can be viewed online here:
http://www.dr-dave-billiards.com/veps/disc_I.html
Here's the outline of the entire series, and here's the complete list of shot categories included on Disc I.
The series includes over 750 shot categories within 50 different major categories, with over 250 "gems" of the game. We think, and we hope you agree, that the series is the most comprehensive collection of useful pool shots ever published (and demonstrated).I think Tom and I made a good team for this project because he is an experienced player, coach, and instructional columnist, and I have more skills on the understanding, illustration, and explanation side of things. I hope you guys like our stuff. We have worked really hard on this project ... months of planning, months of filming, and months of editing and production. It has truly been a labor of love.Please check out all of the video clips online. Also, if you think the series might be of interest to others, please help spread the word.
Thank you for your time,
Dr. Dave"
Friday, November 13, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Happy Haunting!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
See You Next Tuesday and the Next One and the Next One
Getaway was full of fun as a team that is struggling to hold it all together that had nothing but bad news all week managed to pull together and hammer out a few wins. Yea!!! :)
Found out that a new location for the Winter, Sharky's in Mint Hill, will be offering free Bar-B-Q, a band, and FEMALE BIKINI JELLO wrestling this Halloween. Never seen that before, might have to check that out.
Bear's Lair in Indian Trail was so much fun. I'm really liking the crowd in there. I am looking forward to seeing the fun levels increase with the hopeful passage of liquor-by-the-drink next week.
Green Room was Green Room, a warm and strangely comforting stew of John's Facebook activity discussions, Lori's overall lead over Sean in stats, met the new group that's under careful watch of Erin (Hey Tony!) and much more.
And Rack 'Em, oh Rack 'Em. Seeing Donny on the Diamond and listening to Tiger talk about how great he is, how else would I finish up my night? ;) (Nothing but love guys...)
There's more than enough stress and bad news all around these days. Nice to get out and have some fun!
And FYI in case you didn't know... Mexican Lunch Wednesdays are supposed to make Tuesday evening hangovers all better. Try it sometime!
Monday, October 26, 2009
8 Ball Express Presents "Come Out & Play" 9-Ball Tournament
Chance to Come Out & Try 8 Ball Express’ 9-Ball Format, Have Fun & Win Prizes!
DATE: SATURDAY NOV. 7
REGISTRATION: 2:30PM
PLAY STARTS: 3:00PM
* Single Player Tournament
* Modified Single Elimination
* $10 Entry Fee
* 100 % Payout = 1st 70%, 2nd 30%
* Race to Best of 3 Games
* Handicapped - Play at:
- Current 9-Ball Handicap, if none then...
- Current 8-Ball Handicap, if none then...
- Will Handicap You Based on 1st Match
- Handicap = # Balls Must Be Made Before Shooting 9-ball
* Giveaways/Prizes For:
- 1st 8 Ball Express Member Out
- Last Female Standing
- And More!
* Will NOT Affect or Determine Handicaps In Regular League Play
* Play Both 8-ball & 9-ball league for chance at $20,000!
* Come out & have fun!
Location:
The Other Woman Sports Bar
7200 Albemarle Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28227
704.537.1487
FOR MORE INFO CONTACT:
DAWN REID, AREA MANAGER
CELL: 704.654.1522 OFFICE: 704.545.3599
DAWN@8BALLEXPRESS.COM
Click for flyer: http://staging.8ballexpress.com/national/uploads/9ballpromotourney.pdf
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Mid Session Fun
Friday, October 16, 2009
So...What's Up?
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Old Rack 'Em is Now BAD FISH Billiards
"Badfish Bar & Billiards is a new pool hall located at
343 West John Street, Downtown Matthews 704-246-8373.
Our league players receive free pool all the time unless we have a waiting list.
We have:
Eleven 9ft Brunswick pool tables
One 7ft Coinop pool table
One 10ft Billiard Table
Liquor Beer & Wine Espresso Bar & Gourmet Coffee Drinks
Island Oasis Frozen Cocktails
Island Oasis Smoothies
Free Pool for League Members Offering Tournaments & League Play for 8ball and 9ball
Poolplayers & Darters Wanted
Come Watch the Panthers With Us!"
If you are interested in playing the Winter Session, (starts Jan 4) stop by or call 704-246-8373 and let Danny know.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Friday, October 2, 2009
The Whole Enchilada
Friday-Sunday, Oct 2-4, 2009 @
Rack 'Em
1898 Windsor Square Dr
Matthews, NC 28105-4662
(704) 847-7665
The rounds will be played:
* 7:00 p.m. on Friday (1st Round)
* 12:00 p.m. on Saturday (1st Round)
* 5:00 p.m. on Saturday (2nd Round)
* 1:00 p.m. on Sunday (Semi-Finals)
* 5:00 p.m. on Sunday (Finals)
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Help! They Neeeeeed Somebody! Help!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Wow, Engineering At It's Fugliest!
The people that built this must have spent a great deal of time and effort cutting the bottles, taping them together, making sure the angels were right and the balls could make it down the tunnels and into the box. All that time, effort and man hours spent doing something they think would make the game easier INSTEAD of playing the game of pool, which, when you own a pool table, is what it is supposed to be for.
Also, at the end of the day, they still have to bend over and take the balls out of the box, two or three at a time, which is a probably harder than the two players simply walking around half the pool table and pulling the balls out of the pockets closest to them. Oh yeah, and it's ugly as hell too.
Moral to the story: Play pool, have fun, and stop trying to manipulate sh*t. :)
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Finally...A Game to Play With My Invisible Friend
http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1899283
Monday, September 21, 2009
Genus Species
Check out some of the more interesting team names that have popped up this session:
- "Woosa" - The Other Woman"Us Against Ya'll" - The Getaway
- "Thunderballs" - Rack 'Em
- "The Legion of Doom" - Silver Dollar
- "The Wild Ones" - Mickey's 109
- "The Shafts" - JP's
- "The Pervs" - Rack 'Em
- "The Joe Rogers Experience II" - The Green Room
- "Pocket Rockets" - Moxie's Bar
- "Play the Damn Ball" - The Green Room
- "Ms. Kitty and Her Litter" - Getaway Pub
- "Hustlin' 8" - On the Hill Billiards
- "Have Cue Will Travel" - Getaway Pub
- "Hangin' & Bangin'" - Rack 'Em
- "Goonies" - Whooli's Sports Bar
- "Dream Killerz" - The Green Room
- "Do You Need to See That Again" - Getaway
- "Da Law" - FOP Lodge #9
- "Cre8ive" - On the Hill Billiards
- "Boom Boom Pow" - Tailgator's (*Love that song!)
- "Aces & Deuces & Jim" - JP's
- "2 Chicks 6 Sticks" - Sherry's
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Who's 8BE's Biggest Fan?
8 Ball Express:
8 Ball Express - Charlotte:
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Rock the Vote!
REMINDER: As teams finish out this week and their Week 3 score sheets are mailed out you will find ballots for the new Playoff format proposal with them.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Warning, System Overload
So, if you cross my path and I seem a bit frazzled or am frowning, your best bet is to back away slowly and just text me from across the room with your question. 704.654.1522. (This is pretty much goes for any night I'm not smiling.)
Monday, August 31, 2009
Local Tournaments
- Do local tournaments help?
- What do you think about playing in singles tournaments in relation to weekly league play?
- Is it worth ponying up the money if I get knocked out in the first round?
- What about scotch doubles?
- Would that help?
- Are some tournaments around better than others?
Let me know, post a comment or email dawn@8ballexpress.com. (BTW - added some new tournaments to Host Location Tournament Listing)http://staging.8ballexpress.com/national/modules/news/article.php?storyid=71
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Bonus Point Opportunity - SOS Meeting
Fall Start of Session Meetings w/Summer Session Awards & Tournament Board Draw -
CLICK FOR INFO:http://staging.8ballexpress.com/national/modules/news/article.php?storyid=130
Friday, August 21, 2009
See You Next Tuesday!
Limited travel at this time in the Matthews/Southeast Charlotte area.
Great fun and good competition.
Let me know!
Dawn@8ballexpress.com
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
BETA VERSION: Team Registration Form Online
Thanks,
Dawn
http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dFd0anJpd2hwNFhqZmZUcjU5NEI2d1E6MA..
Friday, August 14, 2009
Just In Case You Didn't Know....
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Playoffs, Playoffs, Playoffs
Note to all 1st place teams, don't take the Wildcard team for granted. Wildcard teams, if you can, try to get the 1st place teams drunk. Seems to work... :)
Good luck to everyone playing this week and next and hope to see you at the next End of Session Championships! Oct. 2-4 at Rack 'Em in Matthews, NC.
Friday, August 7, 2009
(Secretly) Rolling My Eyes at You
Person: I want to play 8 Ball Express/Get my own 8 Ball Express team.
Me: Great!
Person: I only want to play on 9ft tables that are in brand new condition.
Me: Ok...
Person: I don't want to travel.
Me: Ok...
Person: I need to play with low ranked players.
Me: Ok...
Person: I need to play with hot chicks with low handicaps
Me: Ok...
Person: I need to play with low-ranked hot chicks and you have to find them for me.
Me: Ok....
Person: So, yeah, I ONLY want to play at one location, with 9ft tables in brand new condition, with hot chicks that have low ranks and against more hot chicks.
Me: Ok...
Person: Plus, all of the chicks have to be single and think I'm cute.
Me: Ok...
Person: And all must have poor moral fiber.
Me: Ok... (looking for closest exit)
Person: And I get up early for work so you'll have to play me 1st. (Added 8/1
/09)
Me: Ok. Well. Oh no! I think my car is on fire...gotta run!
Due to the sudden increased frequency of these conversations, I am beginning to wonder if 8 Ball Express is being accidentally advertised as a fantasy hotline. Wouldn't be surprised at this point. ;)
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
More Sundays With 8 Ball Express
- 4:30pm - Inhouse at The Getaway Pub. Spots open for players.
- 7pm - Rack 'Em. Opening for team of players. As far as I know, most of the teams are full, but Rack 'Em can accommodate additional teams due to more tables.
If interested, either email Dawn@8ballexprss.com so I can point you to a team or simply show up at either location the 1st Sun in Sept and let the bartender know you are looking to join a team.
Monday, August 3, 2009
End of Session Meetings
The End of Session meetings are coming up. Reasons to make sure you and your team mates make it out:
- This is where you get your playoff score sheets.
- Get information about what to expect in the playoffs, format wise, if you've never been to them. Get information on when and where the next End of Sesion Championship will be.
- Get a voice in discussions about any upcoming changes we may be thinking about. At past meetings the discussions were begun about offering the $10k cash prize (league voted yes), sending twice the teams to the End of Session tournament (league voted no), etc.
- Free giveaways (free memberships, t-shirts, zippos, etc) for answering rules questions. (FYI - This is really to help EDUCATE everyone about commonly asked questions we get.)
- Ask questions that you may have and get instant and direct answers. Anything - rule questions, prize and trophy info, tournament information, what ever you've been wanting to know but hadn't got around to emailing or calling the office about.
- If your team is not in 1st-3rd place after playing week 14, you can't be in the wildcard draw without a team membe/r present.
- Catch up with people you may have played with or against in previous sessions. Visit, socialize, keep in touch! Helps with recruiting for your own team next session or pass the word around if you want to join a team. In this world of blogging, tweeting, posting online, face to face interaction still gets the best results in my opinion.
- Check out the competition. If your team makes it through the playoffs you may just end up playing someone at your meeting at the End of Session Championship, depending on location.
- Chat directly with the League founder, Kim, to voice your opinions, suggestions and thoughts. And watch out....she's a hugger! :)
So, see you, my Charlotte members, at The Creek Lounge, 9007 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 8/9/09 at 3pm.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Pineville - Sunday Afternoons Spent with 8 Ball
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Preparing Lower Skill Levels For Higher Competition
Have you got a 1/2/3 on your team that may to crack under pressure? Why wait until the playoffs to get them used to competition? Check out some of the weekly tournaments in the area and get them used to playing under the pressure. Don't wait until playoffs!
http://staging.8ballexpress.com/national/modules/news/article.php?storyid=71
Friday, July 24, 2009
Yup
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Free Membership Won!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Win a Free Membership!
First email I get telling me what the below item is and what it is used for will win a Free Membership for next session. Good luck!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Oldie But Goodie
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
New Places, New Faces
If you are interested in playing/visiting somewhere new or with/against some new people, just give me a shout and I can arrange to talk with them or drop off some info.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Q&A's
- Q: During a push time out in 9 ball, is the opposing player allowed to speak to their coach? A: Yes
- Q: Marking the pocket 8 ball - What do you do when your opponent is busy talking, etc and you are trying to call a pocket? A: Yes you must get the acknowledgement of the other player or if you can’t at least get the acknowledgement of their score keeper.
- Q: How do the playoffs work in a 4 team division? A: First place gets a BYE for the 1st round of playoffs and 2nd plays the wild card team. The winner of that match plays 1st place the next week.
For more Q&A's check out - http://staging.8ballexpress.com/national/modules/smartfaq/index.php
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Long Time No Post...Again!
Got a great set of rule questions I've been asked while out and about. I'm just waiting on verification of final answers from Kim before I post them along with the questions.
Give me about one more day and they will be up.
Hope you had a wonderful 4th of July weekend! :)
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
EUE and Corrections
8 Ball Express does utilize a complex handicapping formula that takes into account everything on the carefully designed scoresheets completed and turned in each week. Rarely does a mistake happen, but they do. I have found after many years of working around leagues that this is entirely due to, at the end of the day, the process relying on people, both you AND me. You: what is filled out on the scoresheet and Me: keying the data in to the system.
For example, while this happens only OCCASIONALLY, if a scorekeeper mixes up who won a game in a match that went hill/hill, then goes back and crosses the column out (plus draws arrows or pictures to explain what they re-marked etc), well, I might be confused and key in the wrong win or loss.
Usually I can decipher the scrawls and scribbles that come in front of me, but sometimes even the Rosetta Stone couldn't translate what I see. Then, on top of this, sometimes the team Captains don't fill out the win/loss totals at the bottom correctly (or at all) so I think everything is ok. IF this happens, teams can sometimes end up with the wrong point totals for the week.
So, in case you didn't know, in the event some human error occurs in your division and you happen to notice, just give a quick call to the League Office and we'll pull the actual paper score sheets out to reverify the info/compare with data entered and fix it, no problem.
Or, hey, if I'm out until 1:30am waiting on a ridiculously slow match and then key in the scores on minimal sleep, occasionally I make a mistake. Like, say, giving a team double bye points (6) and accidently catapulting them from 5th to 2nd. If you happen to notice something odd like a team winning 6 points the previous week, feel free to call and we will fix the problem. Then, continue to feel free to make fun of me the next week when we happen to play each other. Finally, feel free to sucker me into buying you a beer to make up for it. (Hey, sh*t happens ok?!)
I stand by the 8 Ball Express system, 100%, but it's the people on both ends (myself and my members who drinky-drinky) I'm not always sure about. But, after the hangovers and sleep deprivation are over, we always get it worked out.
So, the moral of the story is, if you see something that doesn't look right, give us a call at 704-545-3599 or 704-654-1522 and everything will corrected.
Friday, June 19, 2009
About Time for My Own Cue
Basics of What I Want:
- 19.5oz weight
- Linen Wrap
- Wood with inlays
- Not sure what type of tip I want/need
Suggestions? Know of anyone selling a used one? Email me at dawn@8ballexpress.com or 704-654-1522. Thanks!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Overheard Gems and Jewels
- Player to Captain -P: "Er, what time you got there?" C: (Glances at watch) "Uh, it looks to be right about beer time."
- Player to Player Upon Arriving at League - P1: "Can I slide my stick down right beside you?" P2: "Ok, but my wife might not like that too much..."
- Members Discussing a Very Hot Past Team Mate - "She was, um, well sculpted".
- Player After Missing a Shot - "Not enough English, too much French."
- Discussing a Shot Where the Cue Ball Flew Up in the Air and Landed back on the Table After Making Legal Contact With Object Ball - P to himself quietly while shrugging: "I don't know what the hell kinda shot that was..." C to his own player while laughing: "It was a good hit, that's what it was!"
- Random Bar Patron Remarking To Himself After He Was Brushed Off By a Woman - "Well damn, every one's single after 6 beers ain't they?!?!"
- Player Calls Time Out, Contents of Time Out Discussion - Coach: "I can tell by the way you are hitting that you need a beer. Whatcha drinking?" Player: "What the hell kinda time out is this?" But then player wins game and time out coach yells out "See, beer, it does a body good!"
Friday, June 12, 2009
Wow...gross.
No matter how good you are at billiards, no one is going to want to move the cue ball after he’s done with it. This kid is a natural born nostril hustler. Watch the whole thing for ultimate ickiness and listen for his dad's horribly placed "Yummy!" followed by something about his shirt...ew.
I'm just sad this is what he may be remembered for instead of his shooting ability!
(Saw this clip on "The Soup" on E!)
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
7th Week Notice Reminder
Friday, June 5, 2009
I Was Hustled!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Monday, June 1, 2009
Internet Take Over
Friday, May 29, 2009
Follow the Tournament Action Live! Twitter Updates Available
Follow 8 Ball Express: http://twitter.com/8ballexpress
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Come Out and See!
Friday-Sunday, May 29-31, 2009 @
The Green Room
301 N. Polk St., Pineville, NC 28134
(704) 889-2582
The rounds will be played:
* 7:00 p.m. on Friday (1st Round)
* 12:00 p.m. on Saturday (1st Round)
* 5:00 p.m. on Saturday (2nd Round)
* 1:00 p.m. on Sunday (Semi-Finals)
* 5:00 p.m. on Sunday (Finals)
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
7 Weeks to Change Team Roster!
Don't forget 8 Ball Express allows until the end of the night you play on the 7th week to change your Team's Roster of players. For the Summer Session, Monday, June 15, 2009 - Sunday, June 21, 2009 is the 7th Week.
* Make sure your roster is complete by this time.
* ALL PLAYERS have paid their $10 membership fees or they will be removed from any teams.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Twisted Tuesdays...
Some Tuesday teams have really caught my attention this Session, but I'm not so sure it's in all in good way.
"BIG-TEST-ISCLES" played "B-Low-Us" already this session. Teams are sporting members such as "Bad Touch Uncle" S. along with "Strokin" H. and "Jiggles" F. And what the heck IS A "Moose Knuckle"?
Tuesdays are turning out to be quite the twisted night...
Thoughts & Prayers...
I just received word that one of 8 Ball Express' active members, Stephanie Lee, passed away. She was a member of Beth Royer's Wednesday night "Friends & Family" team out of JP's. She has played with the Wednesday night division for some time now and will be missed I am sure. She will remain on the team's roster for the rest of the session, having just played last week. If you play on Wednesdays, please be aware.
Our thoughts and prayers are with her friends and family.
5/20/09 Update: This was sent from Beth Royer, Stephanie's Team Captain and Friend -
"Stephanie Lynn Lee was born on December 6th, 1974 in Hamilton County, Tennesse to parents Stanley Lee and Sheila Hoots. Though she suffered from medical problems her whole life Stephanie never let them hamper her spirit or her determination to live her life. She was an avid pool player, playing 8 Ball Express on Wednesday nights as well as playing tournaments around town. She was also a huge Atlanta Braves fan. Stephanie worked for Wachovia Bank as a Customer Service Representative. Stephanie left us on May 14th, 2009, after only 34 short years. We, her friends who are left, will miss her spirit, her smile; which would light up the room; and the lovely sound of her infectious laughter. We love you Steph.Saying Good-bye to Our FriendOur dear friend, Stephanie Lee passed away Thursday May 14th. She was a beautiful, vibrant, tenacious, loving, smart and funny young woman who was full of life. She was a very tough opponent and anyone who ever played against her can attest to that. Despite a history of medical problems, Stephanie was never one to give in to self pity and would not accept pity from others. Those of us who were fortunate enough to have her as a friend are better for it. She played on Wednesday night with the "Friends & Family" pool team. We as a team are heartbroken by the loss of Stephanie, we loved her very much and will miss her terribly.Beth Royer, Team Captain, Billy Hilton, Hiram Rutledge, Mindy Vanasse, Rob McGhee, Scott Bethune, Doug Griffin "
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Friday/Sunday/Monday Teams
- Memorial Day/Race Weekend weekend can mean people are out of town or not around.
- Make ups MUST BE DONE AHEAD OF TIME!
- So, if you need to, it's this week or never!
- Don't forget to call and let us know you are making a match up so we will pick it up and hold any no shows responsible.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
FAQ's
Monday, May 11, 2009
Yet Another Overheard Gem
"Don't think she's pregnant, it's too jiggly." Wow...let's stick to the game on the table shall we? ;)
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Tweet Tweet Tweet!
Monday, May 4, 2009
End Of Session Championship Team Rosters & Handicap Reports - Winter 2009 Teams Now Available Online
http://staging.8ballexpress.com/national/modules/news/article.php?storyid=117
or here
http://staging.8ballexpress.com/national/modules/mydownloads/viewcat.php?cid=15
Summer 2009
- Memorial Day Weekend
- July 4 Weekend
- Mother's Day
- Father's Day
- Vacations
- End of Session Tournament
- Any Other Reasons
See you out and about!
Friday, April 24, 2009
Playoff Banter
1. Overheard someone reading a text message to a team mate - "Mary wants to know how it's going with the blow-up doll. Is it inflated yet?" (A birthday celebration was also held during match and the team Captain received a very interesting gift from her team mates!)
2. Player said to Bartender - "I had to come out of the closet to beat her." Bartender: "I don't want to hear anymore of this story."
3. Male Player said to me - "We won our Playoff match last night and I cried." Me: "Wow, that's very sensitive of you." Man: "I'm not lying." Me: "No, really, I believe you." Man: "I mean, well, I didn't boo-hoo or anything, but I did cry. Just a little..."
I can't make this stuff up! But it makes me nod and smile and enjoy my job! If you made it through the Playoffs, good luck to you at the next End of Session Championship! If you weren't able to, good luck this Summer!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Long Time No Post...
Thursday, April 16, 2009
You Are Special...
FYI - Thought I'd pass this info along...
- The owner of Caveman's, Tracy, mentioned to me last night that for teams that want to play out of her host location, particularly Tuesday nights, she would create drink specials around what your team members like to drink! Talk about accommodating... They are also re-covering the pool tables in between this Session and next with a high-end felt. Check them out!
- A new host location that just opened, "Snooker's" on the Plaza (the old Plaza Billiards.) is offering a special. The owner, Donna Burnett, will pay weekly dues for teams that play out of her location. 2918 The Plz (704) 342-2837.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Rule Question...
Q. If a player gets mad and flips a pool table over on his opponent is that loss of game because the 8-ball leaves the playing surface?
Correct A. What the heck are you doing thinking about flipping over pool tables for?!?!?! (And yes, that would be loss of game.)
I couldn't make this stuff up if I tried! Thank you J.H. for making my blog interesting today. :)
Thursday, April 9, 2009
This Is Your Captain Speaking...
Don't forget, without their relentless organization, phone calls and sheer force of will there would be no team for you to play on each week. All they ask is you thank them by buying them a drink/food/round of songs on the jukebox once in a while, keep score your fair share, make sure that you show up on time, stick around until the end most nights and you'll have a happy Captain. That's all they want really. :)
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
League Appreciation Nights
- I was passed a flyer by "The Creek"'s manager, Trish Gunn, on Monday that she wanted me to share with current 8 Ball Express members. It's for those that already play out of "The Creek" or people that are looking to play out of a host location this summer that offers Fun, Food and Friends. I told her I would post it on my blog. Here it is:
April 20th @ 7pm - League Appreciation Night
All Current Creek League Players or Those Interested For Summer Play at The Creek
Free Pizza, Food & Friends... Come and Join Us At The Creek (704-844-6004)!
- Also just heard The Green Room, Pineville, NC is having an 8 Ball Express appreciation night for their current players and potential members. Will find out the details....
Thursday, April 2, 2009
“Beer-goggle Effects”
Do I think that strong "2's" can almost always beat weaker "3's" and your "8" is a guaranteed win? Nope, because at the end of the day two numbers are not playing, two people are playing.
I've noticed the better Captains of winning teams know people, specifically their own people. One facet of knowing your people is that part you recognize involving alcohol. Some people play better after relaxing after a beer, some play better after extreme relaxing (i.e. a bucket of beers) and some can't hold a stick after a glass of wine.
But do you, the player, know yourself? If you drink during League Night, what is your perceived playing ability? Do you have pool "beer goggles" on top of the same ol' regular"beer goggles"? Check out this nifty chart I found and see where you measure up!Diagram 1 shows the effects of alcohol on both one’s actual level of play and one’s perceived level of play. Also shown is the "beer goggle" curve that illustrates the level of desire for unattractive members of the opposite sex. The horizontal scale on the graph represents the number of beers consumed. If you prefer wine, mixed drinks, or hard liquor instead, the scale will be more compressed (i.e., the effects happen faster).
Curve "A" (the red curve) shows how level of play might actually vary for a typical good player who is not new to drinking. The level of play is fairly good to begin with. As the person drinks 2-3 beers, he or she might actually start playing a little better because the beers might help relax the person (alcohol is a depressant after all), resulting in less tension and a smoother, more accurate stroke. However, as the number of beers is increased, the actual level of play decreases significantly as the level of intoxication increases. Obviously, the shape of this curve and how fast and far it drops will vary from one person to the next. Some people also might not benefit at all from the relaxing affects of the alcohol.
Curve "B" (the green curve) shows one such example. This player is not very good to begin with ... his or her sober level of play is just "medium." Alcohol only makes things worse ... the level of play decreases even with the first beer, getting worse with subsequent beers, especially when alcohol is involved. Inebriation can make some people delusional and affect their judgment.
Curves "C" (blue) and "D" (magenta) show examples of two such people. The curve "C" person is delusional even before the first beer ... his or her perceived level of play is actually higher than his or her actual level of play. This only gets worse with more alcohol ... up to a point (about 6 beers). I call the curve "C" person a "glass-half-full" player, because he or she has an optimistic view of their level of play. As the drop in the curve shows, even an optimistic person with false confidence will eventually realize when their level of play has degraded to a really low level. I call the curve "D" person a "glass-half-empty" player because he or she doesn’t perceive a high level of play to begin with, and the perception goes up only as the level of play goes up (as with curve "A"). Alcohol doesn’t seem to have much effect on the pessimistic curve "D" player’s perception of their actual play (i.e., the curve is fairly horizontal).
Curve "E" (orange) shows an entirely different effect called the "beer goggle effect." I’m sure many people have either direct experience with, or have observed, this effect in action. When you drink too much, your judgment is not as good concerning what you think is attractive or not. With intoxication, and as the night grows later, your level of desire for less-than-attractive members of the opposite sex (or same sex, depending on your orientation) will generally increase. Most people also become less inhibited with alcohol, so they are more likely to "seek" partners, sometimes with uncharacteristic bravado. This might be analogous to a drunken player’s go-for-it attitude and belief that he or she can sink any shot on the table. Before anybody accuses me of being sexists, I want to be clear that these effects apply equally well to both genders. Women can get the same false perceptions and "beer goggles" just like men do.
(Reprinted "Beer Goggles Effect" chart and explanation from Billiards Digest Magazine, June 2008 issue with permission) Link -http://billiards.colostate.edu/bd_articles/2008/june08.pdf
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Double Down, Single Hit, Nil
After this Sunday you have 1 week to get 1 point. Deadline - 4/12/09.
After that you just get a smile and a slot to play. :)
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Good Hit vs. Bad Hit
If you are aware of the knowledge in this video, but know someone who isn't, please forward it to them. (Special thanks "Dr. Dave" - David G. Alciatore, PhD, PE with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Colorado State University for the link!) Let's keep the game on the table instead of arguing about it off it!
Watching the Cue Ball:
Watching Object Balls:
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Tony Says...
If this happens to you, email me your response and I'll post it, good/bad/ugly.
If you run into this issue or if this has happened, please email me - dawn@8ballexpress.com and I'll be deservedly ticked off with Blogger. I mean, man, I want to get my money's worth out of this thing...even if it is free!
XX or Just X?
Speaking from experience, if you suspect a double hit is going to occur, call a neutral party to watch the hit BEFORE it happens to avoid an argument after the hit.
CLICK FOR VIDEO EXAMPLES:
Multiple Clips/Links: (Thanks Dr. Dave!) http://billiards.colostate.edu/threads/fouls.html#double
High Speed Video Showing Mechanics of Double Hit: http://billiards.colostate.edu/threads/fouls.html#double
Double Hits, Frozen Balls and Push Shots:
Double Hit Example (Not the best, but I just like to laugh at how he says"foul"):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEAz588L1Es
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Noding And Smiling Yet Again.
8BX Member: What kind of work do you do?
Dawn (ordering Corona): I work for the pool league, 8 Ball Express.
Member: Oh, I didn't realize there was a business side to it.
Dawn (smiling): Well, it'd be hard to imagine trusting volunteers to distribute $10,000 once a session I would think.
Member: $10,000!?!??! What do you mean $10,000?
Dawn: Well, ok, or awarding the team trip. Volunteers may not have the patience to book it.
Member: TEAM TRIP?!
Dawn: Yes, you know, if you win the End of Session tournament. The dates will be on the website soon.
Member: WEBSITE? 8 BALL EXPRESS HAS A WEBSITE!?!?!?!?!
Dawn: Uh-huh....
Member: I didn't realize you could win something for playing each week! I've been telling my wife I just go out and play pool with a bunch of drunks. I think I'm going to try harder now.
Dawn: That may be a good idea.
Member: I won a blue ribbon once in a chili cook-off, but $10,000 would be so much cooler.
Dawn: Can't argue with that...
Then, the rest of the night, whenever he would catch my eye he would just mouth the words "$10,000 dollars" and I would just nod and smile.:)
Friday, March 20, 2009
I "Heart" Widgets and Tweet 8 Ball Express!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Blah Blah Blah
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Your Momma Named You That?!?!
Having been in the South long enough to meet many, many, many people that were named one thing and called another, Kim thought to include a field for "Nickname". This was intended for your "Robert"s being called "Bobby"'s and your "Daniel Jr." being called "Dan".
Somewhere along the line the intent was misread and people started actually writing in nicknames. I'm not talking about the "Beth"s for "Elizabeth"s either. "Tacolicious"...seriously?!?!
Funny thing is, in order to make sure all scores are input correctly, 8 Ball Express asks that you write the nicknames down every time a match is played. This causes teams to call out nicknames during match time to make sure the correct person is written down on the scoresheet.
You tend to recognize 8 Ball Express league play when you hear - "I'm putting Super Pimp Wilson up against Tulip Twanda Poplar Helms." Now how can you not smile and raise an eyebrow at that??
Even funnier is what I've seen at the End of Session Championship Tournament. That's when it really gets good. You see, some divisions/areas are really into it and will throw the craziest nicknames on a scoresheet while some areas are pretty much first names only.
When a team from each meet I usually hear at least one member from the more straight up team say, and I quote, "Your momma named you that?!?!"
Here are some of the more random nicknames I've come across and thought you may get a kick out of:
- ..•:*¨¨*:•..•:*¨¨*:•.. [Unpronounceable ASCII Symbols] (Greg)
- Liverdie (Rob)
- Slick Willie (Dino)
- Valentino (Todd)
- Hip hop (Marci)
- Banana Tree (Kim)
- Lil' Stanky (Brandi)
- Betty-Jo Teeter (Sara)
- Master of Disaster (David)
- Stank Knuckles McRae (Jacob)
- Big Balls McGee (Warren)
- Summabitch (Kenneth)
- Bobby-Sue Tooter (Mitzi)
- Smokin' Grassy Cassie (Cassie)
- The Singing Captain (TC)
- American Honey (Rhonda)
- Poppa Smurf (James)
- Piss 'em In (Shelly)
- Mermaid (Jean)
- Little Peanut (Amanda)
- Dinner Roll (Allen)
- Ninja Slippers (Brad)
- Hobblebox (Courtney)
- Model Citizen (Shane)
- Lamb Chop (Paul)
- Barney Rubble (Kenneth)
- Beth the Rack (Cheryl)
- Jalapeno On a Stick (Mark)
I'm sure there are all kinds of stories behind these nicknames, some of which I'm a little scared to know. Don't mind me if I ask about them, because I do want to know!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Proof of Goofs
Remember my previous post, "Yes Virginia, There Really Are 1's In the League?" http://8ballexpress.blogspot.com/2008/11/yes-virginia-there-really-are-1s-in.html Well, I came across a clip of what I'm talking about and thought I'd post it for your enjoyment!
The beauty of the handicapped billiard league with handicap limits is most people reading this thinking "How can I get that guy on my team?". Anyone outside of league play would most likely be thinking "How can I avoid that guy?" Bonus if you caught the old school exercise bike in the background and noticed the American Flag pool stick he's shooting with.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Monday, March 9, 2009
9-Ball Anyone?
- Improvement: Nine-ball can help improve your eight-ball game by focusing your cue ball control.
- Earlier Finishes: Due to the lower amount of balls needed to be pocketed, nine-ball matches tend to finish earlier in the evening than most eight-ball matches.
- Lower Ranked Players Can Win Too: 8 Ball Express nine-ball is a straight race to 5 games. You only have to pocket the number of balls equal to your handicap then you can shoot on the nine-ball. (Lower ranked players love being able to win games!)
- Combo Shots: Nine-ball can help to improve your combo shooting, as a legal combo pocketing the nine-ball wins a game and players tend to try them more often.
- Luck Counts: Since all balls on the table count towards total ball count, as long as you hit the lowest ball on the table 1st, any ball pocketed is good!
- Strong Breaks Are Great: Balls pocketed on the break count towards balls made total. If your break is strong, you will be off to a great start!
- Push Shots: 8 Ball Express nine-ball allows push shots and, for players ranked 3 & below, push-shot time outs to decide if and where to push.
- Independent Handicaps: Eight-ball & nine-ball handicaps in 8BX are independent of each other, and regardless of your current eight-ball handicap, all new players in nine-ball start as 4's.
- Reading the Table: Nine-ball helps you hone in and learn to read the table better to plan on next shots.
- Every one's Doing It: In recent years, nine-ball has become the game of choice in championship tournament matches in the United States, and more than likely, what you will see the pool pro's playing on ESPN and such.