Earl the Pearl

[sjm]

A dispiriting thread to be sure, one that has strayed very much off topic into a free-for-all on the merits of nationalism as it pertains to pool politics and fandom.

JAM has taken an unfair beating here. While it's common knowledge on the forum that JAM and I don't see eye to eye on the matter of Earl, one point on which we're in 100% agreement is that America has always embraced foreign players to a far greater extent than foreign pool concerns have embraced American pool players. Those of us around the pro game for a long time understand this as irrefutable fact.

A tour such as the San Miguel Tour, which always excluded players on the basis of nationality alone, is repulsive to people like JAM and myself, who have witnessed America's continual open-door policy to pool players of all nationaities.

How each American pool fan factors the dispiriting historical realities of the internatonal pool scene into which players they root for varies from fan to fan, and JAM feels strongly that having American pool fnas cheering for American pool players is fundamental to the revitalization of American pool. It's a view she's certainly entitled to.

 

[ShootingArts]

great post

The truth is that the US has always been far more welcoming to others than they are to us. Whether it be the US competitors, travelers, or businesses, fair practices are often a one-way street. This often isn't considered in the heat of discussions. Many times the things hindering Americans have nothing at all to do with simple competitiveness, regardless of the field or area we are discussing.

Hu

A dispiriting thread to be sure, one that has strayed very much off topic into a free-for-all on the merits of nationalism as it pertains to pool politics and fandom.

JAM has taken an unfair beating here. While it's common knowledge on the forum that JAM and I don't see eye to eye on the matter of Earl, one point on which we're in 100% agreement is that America has always embraced foreign players to a far greater extent than foreign pool concerns have embraced American pool players. Those of us around the pro game for a long time understand this as irrefutable fact.

A tour such as the San Miguel Tour, which always excluded players on the basis of nationality alone, is repulsive to people like JAM and myself, who have witnessed America's continual open-door policy to pool players of all nationaities.

How each American pool fan factors the dispiriting historical realities of the internatonal pool scene into which players they root for varies from fan to fan, and JAM feels strongly that having American pool fnas cheering for American pool players is fundamental to the revitalization of American pool. It's a view she's certainly entitled to.

 

[StevenPWaldon]

This thread continues to get more interesting. It's strayed so far off topic, as others (including myself) have noted earlier.

I suggest that to recalm nerves (and stop misleading people from clicking a thread they want to read about Earl Strickland) we end discussion on this thread. If it's so important, someone start up a new thread so people can continue talking. Seems like we're each turning a deaf ear to each other, regardless who is right(er) [sic].

 

[Fleece3]

There is no patriotism here in America when it comes to pool.

When I watch the Olympics, I'm pulling for the Americans. In pool, I do the same thing. If that is being a racist in your mind, then you are entitled to your opinion.

JAM

I think what JAM is saying (and I agree) is that AMERICAN players should be able to count on AMERICAN support! I saw and heard AMERICANS at the Mosconi Cup (IN AMERICA!) rooting against Earl!!! How stupid is that? Here is a man, an American, playing for YOUR country (America) on American soil and you are sitting there rooting AGAINST him!!! while holding your little AMERICAN flag to boot.

I have been VERY intrigued by this subject. So today, I dove into it deeper with a Filipino friend, playing partner and co-worker. I asked him if he EVER rooted AGAINST a Filipino player. He looked at me like I had just asked him if the earth was round, then replied "NO, that is my countryman. Even if I don't like him I must root for him". I wanted to see how far it goes, so I then asked. "So when you and I are at a tournament and I play a Filipino, you root for him?" He came back with "Partner, you are more than a best friend, you are like a brother to me. But I am sorry, I can not root against my countrymen".

I have seen Americans CHEER when Earl misses a shot. People, that is just RUDE. I understand you want the other guy to win. However, isn't it enough to cheer when your guy does well. Instead of cheering at someone else's mistake. You know what your insides feel like when you miss, and then to hear the crowd CHEERING, that's just kicking a man when he is down!!

 

[JAM]

So your patriotism only extends towards pool for which you have a vested interest in? The thousands of people in Detroit and throughout America that lost jobs because of American's buying foreign cars are apparently none of your concern. This might be a pool forum but your argument is about being a patriot and yet you are driving a swedish buckingham guard made vehicle.

It is difficult to even respond to such an asinine post, but to make it short and sweet, I am not talking about American manufacturing problems or cars or the unemployment rate in Detroit.

I am speaking about Americans pulling for the hometeam. If you don't get it, then you don't get it.

JAM

 

[JAM]

Yeah it couldn't have been those fun filled American players hey.

Still no names I see?

Craig, you are younger than my daughter, but the two of you have something in common. I realized a long time ago that it is difficult to have a productive colloquy with my daughter when she thought only her opinion was right and all others were wrong, and so you and I will part friends at this juncture.

I will always root for Americans, and if you don't like it, then stay on your side of the pond with the Buckingham Guards.

JAM

 

[JAM]

Well, since your xenophobic rant shows no signs of letting up...

Buddy, if I were to take off on you, I would rip you to shreds on this forum, but quite frankly, you are not worth it, and you'd need more than the 8 to keep up with me. Calling me a xenophobic may make you feel high and mighty, but in reality, the only thing it does is reveal to me that you want to flame.

What it boils down to is this: American players have ruined American pool. American players should stop acting like the game owes them something and realize they owe the game so much more.

You are nothing more than an ignorant and uninformed flame-thrower.

American players are the victims, and they are victims from the likes of you and your ignorance.

I love this country, probably more than you, since I welcome diversity.

I love this game, probably more than you, since I don't excuse the ones that belittle it.

I can't even respond to such an idiotic statement, but I can assure you that my love of the game is solid because, in fact, I am aware of the American pool scene, probably much more than you.

Oh, and as far as diversity, give me a frigging break. Are you so thick-headed that you don't understand the intent of my posts on this thread?

JAM

 

[JAM]

Im sorry JAM..l.

Yes, you are sorry.

JAM

 

[JAM]

Jam -

I love the foreign players! Obviously, I want the US boys, (especially that Keither guy) to win, but I love the way that foreign boys (and girls) come over and take the level of play up a notch.

Face it, before Allison Fisher (and I am not a huge fan of WPBA) the womens pool had maybe 2 good players. Jean on the East coast, for example. Now I think there are several good players.

I hate having an "inventational" tourneyment. Or qualifiers so only East Coast players have opportunity to qualify verses West coast, or even Mid Western players.

HOW CAN ANYONE BE PROUD OF BEING WORLD CHAMPION IF THE ONLY ONES WHO CAN COMPETE IS THE PLAYERS IN THE US? WOULDNT THAT MAKE YOU US CHAMPION?

All I am saying is dont blame the foreign players for being so good that the win tourneyments! I say get you "A" game back on step it up a knotch!

Lets accept the challenge!

As far as little money, who can blame the US? Watch one of Earls tantrums and then say "WOW, now that is a guy we want to represent us!"

We have chased off Camel, the Busch group, and got in bed with a magic cure salesman!

Make fun of me if you will, but you gotta take your hats off to the WPBA, and the NASCAR group. My sister who knows nothing about nothing makes buying desicions based on car sponsors!

Your friend in pool,

Ken

Ken, thanks for your contribution to the thread. I am not blaming the skills set of foreign players on why American pool is dead. I am sorry if I have not explained my opinion more clearly, but I appreciate you stating yours.

JAM

 

[JAM]

Why do you immediately assume that anyone who has a problem with Earl doesn't support American pool?

I never assumed that, but you have posted an assumption now, haven't you?

Are you familiar with the term "blind faith" when it comes to religion? I do believe there is also such a thing as blind support, and I for one refuse to buy into it. And no, I'm not talking about the support of American pros as a whole. I'm referring to one player. Please don't assume that I'm anti-American. I choose my heros wisely. My hero should be one that I would not be ashamed to support. One who I wouldn't mind my children mirroring. If my child acted out like Earl does he'd be in deep trouble, and it would reflect poorly on me as a parent. Just as Earl's tantrums reflect poorly on us as Americans.

Your opinion, but thankfully, you are only one person. I will not enter into a debate about your opinions and assumptions for fear of igniting a flame.

Having said that, I hear what you are saying. You say I'm blind. I think your intentions on this thread are misguided.

Ya know, I received a few PMs praising my original post from people who understood it but didn't think you'd be capable of grasping its content. Maybe the sarcasm masked the intended message too much.
I like you, Jam. I've generally enjoyed your posts, and I appreciate your tenacity in being an active part of the success of pool in America, but I will not be scolded for holding my heros to a higher standard, and I will not offer blind support based soley on nationality.

Well, I not only received several PMs on this forum, Pal, but I received 5 e-mail in total from friends in the pool world, one of them sent to me from a representative of Earl Strickland who thanked me for stating my opinion.

You don't have to like Earl, and you don't have to like me. That is okay by me. I am an American pool enthusiast who has invested a lot of time and money in this sport, and I know a little bit of what goes on behind the scenes that I cannot post in this public forum. However, I'm writing it all down and making a record which will someday be published.

Your heros are just that, yours. I am only an American who desires to have pool elevated in my country, and what is happening to the sport currently behind the scenes sickens me.

I will always be a fan of Earl Strickland, and if that irks you, then let you be irked.

JAM

 

[JAM]

A dispiriting thread to be sure, one that has strayed very much off topic into a free-for-all on the merits of nationalism as it pertains to pool politics and fandom.

JAM has taken an unfair beating here. While it's common knowledge on the forum that JAM and I don't see eye to eye on the matter of Earl, one point on which we're in 100% agreement is that America has always embraced foreign players to a far greater extent than foreign pool concerns have embraced American pool players. Those of us around the pro game for a long time understand this as irrefutable fact.

A tour such as the San Miguel Tour, which always excluded players on the basis of nationality alone, is repulsive to people like JAM and myself, who have witnessed America's continual open-door policy to pool players of all nationaities.

How each American pool fan factors the dispiriting historical realities of the internatonal pool scene into which players they root for varies from fan to fan, and JAM feels strongly that having American pool fnas cheering for American pool players is fundamental to the revitalization of American pool. It's a view she's certainly entitled to.

SJM, thanks for your post. Even though we may have differing points of view on some topics relating to pool, you and I share one thing in common, and that is the success of American pool. I appreciate your voice of reason. You are truly a great asset to this forum.

JAM

 

[JAM]

I think what JAM is saying (and I agree) is that AMERICAN players should be able to count on AMERICAN support! I saw and heard AMERICANS at the Mosconi Cup (IN AMERICA!) rooting against Earl!!! How stupid is that? Here is a man, an American, playing for YOUR country (America) on American soil and you are sitting there rooting AGAINST him!!! while holding your little AMERICAN flag to boot.

I have been VERY intrigued by this subject. So today, I dove into it deeper with a Filipino friend, playing partner and co-worker. I asked him if he EVER rooted AGAINST a Filipino player. He looked at me like I had just asked him if the earth was round, then replied "NO, that is my countryman. Even if I don't like him I must root for him". I wanted to see how far it goes, so I then asked. "So when you and I are at a tournament and I play a Filipino, you root for him?" He came back with "Partner, you are more than a best friend, you are like a brother to me. But I am sorry, I can not root against my countrymen".

I have seen Americans CHEER when Earl misses a shot. People, that is just RUDE. I understand you want the other guy to win. However, isn't it enough to cheer when your guy does well. Instead of cheering at someone else's mistake. You know what your insides feel like when you miss, and then to hear the crowd CHEERING, that's just kicking a man when he is down!!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! I don't know who you are, Fleece Man, but you are right on. I thank the good Lord that there are some kindred souls out there that get it.

JAM

 

[smokeandapancak]

Well now ... I take a few days off and looky what hapens....
Jam,
I have most always fel in line with your comments, but I gotta say that you seem to be a little off base here. Dont get it twisted, I am all for pulling for the Americans when they play.. but all of this "camel riding, robot guard" nonsense is comical at best, and ignorant at worst.
There is nothing wrong with cheering for the home team, but not to hold them accountable for their actions, well thats just wrong...Earl has gone outside of the lines more than once... and it has been entertaining..... entertaining like a car wreck, but attetion getting none the less.
Robots and Guards..... its pool... what should they do ... dance around after every rack ... high five the crowd after a tough shot? .... Come on... I dont care if the dude dosent even crack a smile until the end of a match... I am there to see him play.. thats where my entertainment comes from...
These guys arent all heros back in their homeland either. i live in Germany and there are no TV ads or guest apperances on talk shows for Thorsten or Ralph... none.. if you were not a pool person then you wouldnt know these guys from adam...much like back home.

Shane
OEF/OIF Vet /DOD Employee/ Patriot
oh yeah....
BIG "HITMAN" FAN

 

[JAM]

Well now ... I take a few days off and looky what hapens....
Jam,
I have most always fel in line with your comments, but I gotta say that you seem to be a little off base here. Dont get it twisted, I am all for pulling for the Americans when they play.. but all of this "camel riding, robot guard" nonsense is comical at best, and ignorant at worst.
There is nothing wrong with cheering for the home team, but not to hold them accountable for their actions, well thats just wrong...Earl has gone outside of the lines more than once... and it has been entertaining..... entertaining like a car wreck, but attetion getting none the less.
Robots and Guards..... its pool... what should they do ... dance around after every rack ... high five the crowd after a tough shot? .... Come on... I dont care if the dude dosent even crack a smile until the end of a match... I am there to see him play.. thats where my entertainment comes from...
These guys arent all heros back in their homeland either. i live in Germany and there are no TV ads or guest apperances on talk shows for Thorsten or Ralph... none.. if you were not a pool person then you wouldnt know these guys from adam...much like back home.

Shane
OEF/OIF Vet /DOD Employee/ Patriot
oh yeah....
BIG "HITMAN" FAN

Well, Hitman Fan, you, like a few others on this thread, take my words and dissect them for your own benefit. Sadly, you are missing the point of my posts.

I think Thorsten and Ralph are great players. Ralph, in particular, is a very humble man, but one who does talk to fans on the offs. When Ronnie Alcano won the WPC this year, I couldn't help but cry right along with Ralph, knowing how much this tournament means to a player like him.

Having said that, I am an American who only wants to root for the home team when they are competing on American soil. Nothing against Thorsten and Ralph and the other European players, but American pool is suffering, and I will continue to support American players in any way I can.

BTW, I am far from ignorant when it comes to pool, but if it pleases you to label me that, as the others on this thread, then so be it. I quit writing for pool media because of my disdain for the American pool culture. It might just be time for me to quit posting on this forum because I am not enjoying it anymore.

JAM

 

[smokeandapancak]

Well, Hitman Fan, you, like a few others on this thread, take my words and dissect them for your own benefit. Sadly, you are missing the point of my posts.


BTW, I am far from ignorant when it comes to pool, but if it pleases you to label me that, as the others on this thread, then so be it. I quit writing for pool media because of my disdain for the American pool culture. It might just be time for me to quit posting on this forum because I am not enjoying it anymore.

JAM

Talk about dissecting a post for your own benefit.... here is what I said

but all of this "camel riding, robot guard" nonsense is comical at best, and ignorant at worst.

I did not lable you as ignorant... However, I am beging to lean toward stubborn... Fact of the matter is those ARE IGNORANT comments if you meant them to be taken literal... comical..off color, but comical if they were said in jest..

JAM. maybe you should take a break.. cool off a little...
Dont leave for good.. you are a vauled member of this forum... obviously there are things that you should refrain from disccussing because you hold very deep emotions and you will do nothing but frustrate yourself by trying to debate with the GP in the internet ...
pick your fights... this isnt the place or the time for something like this

 

[JAM]

Talk about dissecting a post for your own benefit.... here is what I said

but all of this "camel riding, robot guard" nonsense is comical at best, and ignorant at worst.

I did not lable you as ignorant... However, I am beging to lean toward stubborn... Fact of the matter is those ARE IGNORANT comments if you meant them to be taken literal... comical..off color, but comical if they were said in jest..

JAM. maybe you should take a break.. cool off a little...
Dont leave for good.. you are a vauled member of this forum... obviously there are things that you should refrain from disccussing because you hold very deep emotions and you will do nothing but frustrate yourself by trying to debate with the GP in the internet ...
pick your fights... this isnt the place or the time for something like this

You highlight what you desire to continue to flame me on this thread.

What in the hell do you think my intentions are when I posted on this thread? Do you really think I am upset about camels and guards?

I will take a break, but it will be when I want to take a break, not when you tell me to.

Granted, it may be sooner than later, but I will not be told by anyone to refrain from discussing things that I feel strongly about. If you think this isn't the place or the time for something like this, then why did you feel it necessary to respond once more? The answer is obvious.

Here's a little highlight for you in red from your post: comical at best, and ignorant at worst

So there you have it. You want to label me as ignorant? I have more knowledge in my pinky about some topics than you will ever have in your life.

JAM

 

[smokeandapancak]

Dude.... alls I was saying was that you have gotten a little bent out of shape over this thing.... Thats it....
this is a internet forum.. people dont have to take a test to get in here... there is alot of ignorant people here and tilting at those windmills is pointless...kinda like your back and forth on this thread with a few select people...pointless after a while

I have never read post from you that were written in this mean and defensive manner.
I wasnt TELLING you to take a break... you brought it up and I was merely agreeing with you.. pardon me for doing so.

and once again... nobody has called you ignorant... (at least I havent)
I will own up to hitting you with stubborn...

JAM. maybe you should take a break.. cool off a little...
Dont leave for good.. you are a vauled member of this forum...

Notice how you looked right over the props I gave in that statment......

 

[JAM]

Dude.... alls I was saying....

I can't even get by the first word of your post.

FWIW, I am a female, in case you were unaware. I am not a dude.

JAM

 

[quitecoolguy]

Wow...I cant eat pop corn and sit back and watch this anymore..because it seems that in the end AZ will be minus some people posting..Sometime people just dont see eye to eye and no matter how well you articulate your thoughts you are not going to be able to change another persons prespective. I truly dont want to see JAM not post here because of her stand point. She has her perspective on the issue and others have theirs..I think the fire isnt burning the issue, but is now starting to singe the feathers of people personaly. The one thing i take from these forums is that every post has something, usually in it that makes me go hmmm never thought about it that way...and trully in some of JAM's post in this thread and others i have thought okay..i see somewhat where your coming from...although i dont completely see eye to eye with jam with the pulling for some one just because they are American. i will however defend her right to think it and speak it..but this reminds me so much of the Rocky movie..take for instant when Rocky was fighting the Russian boxer and everyone that was Russian was booing Rocky and pulling for their guy...but as the fight went on...and the effort and heart that Rocky poured out in that fight won some of that croud over...to me that is what America is about...we are not a forced mind limited to only the concept of us against them...we are free to embrace that which inspires us. Johhny Archer inspired me to play this game as well as Earl..but so does Efren and Bustamante..I dont think i really pick sides during a match..although i really love Johhny and Earl..but i just love seeing a great match and watching the best player, who comes to the table with the most heart and skill win..pure and simple.. so dont let your desire to stand your ground JAM force you away from this forum..becasue you inspire people on here as well, and the forum would be a little less bright without you here. and I sincerly mean that

Tony...so much i signed my real name and not my screen name

 

[smokeandapancak]

I can't even get by the first word of your post.

FWIW, I am a female, in case you were unaware. I am not a dude.

JAM

I am well aware of your gender...

You should really lighten up ...dude..

Feel free to address the remainder of my previous post...