One Vote, One Prayer

Some evangelicals are praying for rain in Denver tonight. Rain to squelch the Democratic National Convention in the open air of Invesco Field.

You've got to be kidding me.

When the rain doesn't come, what does that mean for this evangelical and their God? Seems like it might be considered an endorsement for Barack Obama, no?

R.I.P. City

Kevin Duckworth b. April 1, 1964 - d. August 25, 2008.

Kevin Duckworth has died. Sometime Monday at the Oregon Coast.

Duck was a Portland legend. Seven feet tall and close to 300 pounds when he played he was both intimidating and gentle. One of the nicest and most emotionally honest athletes ever to come through Portland.

I have several fond connections to Duck.

In 1988 I bought my first Blazers Authentic Jersey. I had a choice between Clyde Drexler’s #22 and Kevin Duckworth’s #00. I chose Duck. It cost all of $45 new at the time. I have long since outgrown that jersey, but I will never part with it.

When I worked for the Blazers, my producer knew of my attachment to Duckworth and at the end of the 2001 season she presented me with his game used warmups from 1992-1993. He was one big dude.

In 2001 when the Blazers retired Clyde Drexler’s number I got a chance to chat with Duckworth. He was as cordial and gentle that night as he ever was. I will always remember his easy smile.

Kevin wasn’t enough of a legendary player to have his jersey number retired. But he was enough of a legendary person to have a place of honor by the Blazers. The early fan input is that the team name their community service award and program for him. They could re-name the Blazers Boys and Girls Club on MLK in his honor. There are lots of good ideas. But please, do something.

R.I.P. City for Duck. R.I.P.

B!