Monday, December 5, 2011

Tebow Be Thy Name

I'm like you, you and I we're pretty similar I'd bet. You like football, a good beer -- with no lite in the title -- Russell Crowe movies, and Tim Tebow.

Wait? You DON'T like Tim Tebow? Get out of town you're the only one I know.

You say there's a lot of football minded people across America who do not like Tebow?

The way he plays? His relationship with the media? Because he Gator chomped your Buckeyes?

Tebow found his way into the MVP talk
What a shame. I like Tim Tebow, actually I'm infatuated with the man. Peter, Paul, and Tebow.The Father the Son and the Holy Tebow. You get the point...

Tebow has won a title on both the high school and college levels, and while the Super Bowl is still  three months away it may not be a stretch for the son of a preacher to be a champion in the NFL as well.

After starting 1-4 Denver cut ways with Kyle Orton and handed the reins over to Tebow, who eight weeks later has the Broncos at 7-5 and in first place atop the AFC West. A feat that nearly every NFL expert on every network deemed impossible.

Tebow recorded a 149.3 QB rating vs. Minnesota
All the stat crunchers out there who cannot get by the fact he won't put up Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers numbers received a shock after a a 149.3 QB rating against Minnesota, a season and career best.

Tebow has surpassed the 100 QB rating three times this season, and the 90 mark twice. He'll never surpass the passing marks John Elway holds, but like the Broncos current Team President, Tebow will be in the MVP talk.

Too soon? He won't win it, don't sweat, a man up in Wisconsin will, but he will be talked about and that in itself is a win.

Tebow has 10 passing tds and one interception, an 87.9 QB rating, and 468 rush yards but most importantly he has six wins and only one loss.

A winner both on and off the field, I'll take it.

You may hate his opinions and religious discussion Kurt Warner, but I'll take that over some of the other jail birds in the league. In Week 13 -- Erik Walden of the Green Bay Packers and Ronaldo McClain of the Oakland Raiders -- were starting for their respective teams the same week they were arrested on different types of assault charges. Stupendous! Where's the NFL arrest free clock at?

I'll take a Bible toting Christian over a gun toting alleged woman abuser.

Just saying.

You're free to keep on hating, it's your right. I however will keep on cheering and rooting for the guy who plays quarterback like a linebacker and after Jacksonville fans suffered through Monday Night Football I'd bet they wish they were cheering on Tebow instead of Gabbert.

I would bet Indianapolis fans would rather have Tebow instead of Orlovsky or Painter or whoever, or the Washington faithful instead of Grossman, what about Chicago right about now instead of Hanie or maybe Seattle to team up with Marshawn Lynch double the power!

Denver took Tebow on, they changed their playbook to adapt to his strengths, the defense has stepped up time and again, and with four weeks left the rush to the postseason is on.

The haters will hate and the fans will cheer, but if Tebow continues on this path of righteousness against Chicago Bears as the favorites at home this Sunday -- the cheers will drown out the non believers -- and Tebow will be one step closer to redemption in a home playoff game.


Ask and you shall receive. 



Sean Youngberg
Sports Writer and awesome owner of this blog

Like me? Hate me? Have a suggestion -- email SAYoungberg@Gmail.com

Thursday, November 17, 2011

The Avett Brothers

Two days ago I saw The Avett Brothers perform down at Virginia Tech -- it was my second time having the privilege to see these guys put on a monstrous performance. Non-stop kick ass country/rock/folk music for nearly two hours. It was my second time in the last year catching their show, but the first time I got to hear Head Full of Doubt / Road Full of Promise...I feel obligated to share it here with you...that is only if you enjoy really fantastic music.

Penn State University: A Public Relations Perspective

     It has been nearly two weeks since the allegations levied against Penn State University first came flooding through televisions, Twitters, and smart phones across America. Two weeks of nauseating sexual abuse allegations, cover ups, student riots, firings, and just when it seems we’ve heard it all something new seems to pop its ugly head in a media firestorm. For two weeks we’ve been bombarded with the Penn State scandal and it is times like these in which Public Relations may just be more necessary than ever

     Unfortunately it is commonly misunderstood that Public Relations is a profession which people, companies and organizations use when they need to cover up their wrong doings and mistakes. Essentially to a great many people Public Relations is code for “clean up my mess!” That is not what Public Relations is or should be.

     With the luxury of hindsight it is simple to say that Penn State should have contacted local law enforcement, should have fired Coach Sandusky and banned him for life, should have, could have, would have – none of these happened and now a once prestigious university (it goes way beyond football) will have to suffer for years before their name can begin to shine brightly once again. While they may never re-achieve their once legendary status as one of America’s premier universities – with the help of Public Relations, Penn State University can climb back toward the top.

     Let us not forget that in 2006 three Lacrossee players at Duke University were falsely accused of raping an African American stripper. The university, faced with a rape and hate crime scandal was rightfully scared for their public image and reprecussions that may come. However the University jumped the gun, forcing head coach Mike Pressler to resign, ousting the three players, and disbanded the rest of the Duke Lacrossee season, depsite nothing more than accusations. Duke University faced Black Panther Protests, vandalism, threatening letters and hate mail, and more during a year long media bombardment. The three players were later found innocent, but the reputation and credibility of the University took a major hit. Although the years since have seen Duke restore itself back to national fame and reputation, it would not have been without possible with an administration admitting wrongdoing and apologizing, NCAA Championships in Mens basketball, and a refocused commitment to focus on student and faculty accomplishments. Duke has been able to restore their brand, and although three Lacrossee players wrongfully accused of rape is leaps and bounds less than a full blown univeristy sex scandal -- Penn State will be able to restore their brand one day.

Four steps toward recovery for Penn State University…

1) Take care of the next generation of abused children by reallocating a portion of the 88 million dollars raised by the football team every season. It is one thing to donate money to a charity in Penn State's name -- it's another to help educate the next generation of caretakers. Revamp the Psychology and Medical departments to put a focus on Children's psychology and Counselors for abused children. An influx of students coming to Penn State to study children's psychology would show the world, that Penn State is not only interested in helping out Sandusky's victims -- but all child victims. An influx in students and finances will help reboost the university.


2)  A new coaching era must begin in Penn State. Interim head coach Tom Bradley and his entire staff must go. A serious, responsible, accountable new head coach, with a new staff a must be found. Bradley has not been accused of any charges – but the man served under Joe Paterno for thirty years – guilty or not, his association with the legendary head coach is too much for the university to burden. Let’s not forget that there is still a Paterno on staff – son of Joe Pa, Jay is the quarterbacks coach. It is not the time, nor will it be any time soon, to have the ‘Paterno’ name in limelight.





Former Penn State assistant coach Jerry Sandusky is charged with sexually abusing eight boys from 1994 to 2009.
Jerry Sandusky. Photo courtesy of SI
3)  Graciously accept the sanctions handed down by the NCAA. It is yet to be seen when the NCAA will convene and what they will do – but if the University of Southern California is not bowl eligible for 5 years because of the Reggie Bush scandal, and Ohio State faced heavy punishments for some free shoes and tattoos – we will most likely see an unprecedented probation in University Park, Pennsylvania. Use those years to rebuild your University’s reputation, create an abused children foundation, reach out to the community, and not just focus on reestablishing the football program.

4) Rewrite the mission statement. The current Penn State mission statement is four elongated sentences totaling 157 words in length. This needs to be changed to read, “to protect and help our students grow intellectually and become positive contributing members to society” OR “To protect, educate, and assist the youth and future of America, today” OR “To ensure the highest levels of education, protection, and opportunities to succeed in and beyond the classroom.”

 A new mission statement must mention it is their GOAL to protect our youth. Regardless of the wording, it is pivotal that Penn State shows us all they understand where they failed, and what is truly important; providing an environment that ensures safety and all educational opportunities to succeed.

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     Journalist Robert Brault once said, “One of life's regrets is that you didn't always tell the truth, and now it's too late, because the truth has changed.” Penn State University had their chance in 1998, and again in 2002 to confront this uncomfortable truth but they failed miserably and now they must pay the price that comes with their unfortunate lack of judgment. Remember that telling the truth, confronting an uncomfortable reality, and doing what is right – will always be better than covering up a lie – no matter the severity.





Friday, November 4, 2011

I Don't Care How You Take Your Coffee

The life and times of a recent college graduate as he makes the leap into the world of Public Relations. Written by Sean Alan Youngberg

     As I walked off the stage at James Madison University with a diploma in my hand, I knew it was official. My glory days were over. I went from being a big fish in a small pond – to a tiny fish, in an enormous ocean swimming with great opportunity and daunting competition.

     No longer could I stroll across campus and have people shout “Hey Sean!” or “My man, how you doing?” As I prepared to step out into ‘the real world’ I was afraid those familiar calls would soon become “Hey new kid!” and “Buddy, where’s my coffee?” That’s why when searching for a job; I made it my top priority to find a place to work, which was mutually beneficial to the company and me. I needed an opportunity where my participation and hard work were not just for a paycheck – but also to become successful, to grow intellectually, and to have that company grow in return. Megale Public Relations was that place.

To read the rest of this article check out Megale PR the coolest PR firm this world may ever see.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

NFL Week 8: If I Were a Betting Man...

There is something quite absurd to me when it comes to gambling on professional sports. Where is the sense in losing my hard earned money on a game in which I have no control?

I can justify betting on a game of Risk -- especially if I get Kamchatka -- or a pick up game of hoops, because I know the odds are in my favor with the ball in my hands. How can I justify throwing down cash when the ball is in Tom Brady's hands, or even worse Curtis Painter's! Yet every Sunday night I'm scratching my head or bombarding my friends with gloating texts depending on how well Houston man-handles Tennessee or Baltimore inexplicably losing to the basement dwelling Jaguars.

Regardless I will put my dollars down in hopes of hitting it big because it's another week full of action, gladiator sized men shortening their odds of living past 60, and scoreboard operators keeping up with touchdown's coming from every which direction. Without further adieu here are my picks for week 8 in the NFL.

Week 7 results: 10/13 -- misses: SD over NYJ, Detroit over Atlanta, and like 100% of Americans Baltimore over Jacksonville.

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WEEK 8 Picks:
1:00 Games

Arizona @ Baltimore: There is no way that Ray Lewis doesn't have his defense ready to go against an atrocious Arizona offense -- but can Joe Flacco and Cam Cameron jump start an offense that didn't record its first, first down until 5:20 left in the third quarter?? You betchya.

Baltimore 28-10
Newton should have a big Sunday against Minnesota


Minnesota @ Carolina: Christian Ponder came up huge in his professional debut, making Aaron Rodgers and the Packers sweat out a victory for the first time this year. Ponder is talented but he's the QB of the future, not today. Minnesota has historically struggled against Carolina, I'm looking for Cam Newton and that high powered offense to have some fun against the NFL's most lackluster secondary.

Carolina 28 - 24

Jacksonville @ Houston: Can Jacksonville keep up their winning ways after a Monday night win over Baltimore? Doubtful. Arian Foster pulled a hat trick against Tennessee last weekend in what was Houston's most decisive victory this season. The Texans offense is of Cadillac caliber compared to Jacksonville which runs more like a hand me down moped.

Houston 35 - 17

Miami @ New York Giants: Miami sucks (and not just for Luck) they are giving up more fantasy points to quarterbacks than any other team. Coming off a bye week with a healthy backfield Eli Manning is poised for another big week. Despite any guarantees Brandon Marshall is making Big Blue will keep Miami winless.

NYG 27-13

New Orleans @ St. Louis: New Orleans scored 62 points last week. St. Louis gave up 253 rushing yards to Dallas rookie DeMarco Murray. The Saints are very talented in all facets of the game, the Rams are the exact opposite.

New Orleans 101-0....ok ok, how about 45-14

Indianapolis @ Tennessee: The AFC South is statistically the worst division in football (a combined 9-18) through the first seven weeks. If there was ever a chance for Chris Johnson to bounce back into elite form this is the showdown. I would like to pick the Colts bouncing back in the upset, but I would also like a personal masseuse -- at least we can always keep dreaming!

Tennessee 23-13

4:00 Games

Washington @ Buffalo: The Bills have allowed the fewest sacks (7) through the first seven weeks, while the Redskins have more sacks (21) than any other franchise -- and something will have to give this Sunday in Toronto....yes, they're playing a professional game in CANADA. Washington is not made to play in a shootout which doesn't bode well in a game against one of the leagues top offensive attacks.

Buffalo 35-19


Detroit @ Denver:  Are you Tebowing? In his first game at home Tim Tebow will have quite a challenge against a hungry Detroit team coming off back-to-back losses for the first time since last season. If Denver falls behind a Calvin Johnson led offense early, don't look for any replays of last weeks miracle comeback. Detroit gets back in the win column.


Detroit 27-17

New England @ Pittsburgh:  A showdown of perennial AFC powerhouses has all the makings of another classic showdown. Pittsburgh has become a pass first team in recent years, and they'll need to keep it that way to keep up with Tom Brady, who has 16 touchdown passes through six games. Look for the Patriots to all but abandon the running game against that stingy Steelers-D and use Wes Welker and pick-a-tight end in the short throwing attack. Pittsburgh has struggled by their own standards this season, and despite home field advantage I like the Pats by just a little to hit the road and put another tally mark in the win column.


New England 31-29

Cincinnati @ Seattle: In a game that 1% of NFL fans care about the surprisingly successful Bengals head out West to take on the Charlie Whitehurst led Seahawks. Plain and simple if Seattle could only muster three points against Cleveland last week how well can you expect them to do against the leagues fourth ranked defense? 


Cincinnati 17-9

Cleveland @ San Francisco: Two weeks removed from the games most notorious post-game handshake, and one week off a by the resurgent 49ers are poised to keep things rolling. Cleveland couldn't get into the end zone last weekend against Seattle -- this week they get a defense yet to give up a rushing score all season. It is all up to Colt McCoy here, and that should all but sum this one up.

San Francisco: 24-10

Sunday Night Showdown

Dallas @ Philadelphia: The "Dream Team" or the "All-Hype Team" depends on how you look at it, but the bad blood between these two historic franchises hasn't gotten any friendlier with Rob Ryan and DeSean Jackson sparring words at one another all week. The Eagles are once again in a must win situation and will look to their hot secondary that picked off Rex Grossman four times before they had a bye week to keep them in this game-- and they'll get plenty of chances with Tony Romo throwing the rock around. I like Philly's chances to keep their season alive, at least for another week.

Philadelphia 27-23

Monday Night Football

San Diego @ Kansas City: Todd Haley hasn't shaved since the Chiefs slipped by the Vikings back in week 4 -- the pay off -- three straight victories. With a win over the shockingly sluggish San Diego Chargers and the Chiefs find themselves in a tie for first in the AFC West. I like the Chiefs to use the Arrowhead advantage and continue on the right track.

KC 26-17




Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Good Old American Soil

After eight months abroad, I am back and getting settled in the good old U.S.A. Six months in Israel -- five living at Kibbutz Romat Yochanan -- two traveling to twelve different European countries. What one learns while living in a place like Israel is almost incomprehensible in words; and don't even get me started about living alone for two months in Europe, I don't even know where to begin with the overly interesting people I met!
A rare moment in time I am totally cool. 


Whether it was sipping -- or chugging -- the world's best beer in Munich, Germany, 'Augistiner,' or throwing back Polish Vodka after dinner like all good Poles do; setting foot through six different concentration camps to the oldest active royal palace in the world (Stockholm Palace) there wasn't a stop along the way I wouldn't miss  if I had to re-do the trip!

But what do you need to care about MY personal growth and development? You're wondering and excited about why I got this blog going up again EY? Well I was recently hired by Megale PR in Washington, D.C. and New York City as an accountant executive/social media blogger/ and researcher so I decided it was time to put that B.A. of Journalism to use and start some writings!

The beauty of Prague at noon
 This blog is active and I hope to provide some good shorts, stories, blurbs, whatever to you as the fall weeks turn into winter folks. Your comments, criticism, and critiques are always welcome to SAYoungberg@Gmail.com, find me on Twitter at @SeanYoungberg or comment below.

May each day be good to you, to quote Henry David Throeau, "I learned this, at least, by my experiment; that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours."


Amsterdam. Every day requires your game face.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Happy Father's Day 'Old' Man

Don't quote me on this; but, I do believe this is the first father's day that I haven't spent with my dad in twenty-three years.

Maybe it's the second or third...well regardless as my dad would say this is my story I'm not going to let facts get in the way.

It's not the mere fact I'm not hanging out with Big Al today, or the fact I'm 6,000 miles away on another continent -- it's strange for me to realize I haven't seen him or a any of my family in over four months! 

People constantly ask me "Don't you miss your family?" to which I stare blankly for a little and then try to muster up a non-sarcastic response or roll my eyes. OF COURSE I miss my family, when you've been as blessed as I have, a day doesn't go by when you don't think about your mom and dad, your uber cool sister, or your two dogs which are totally cuter and more kick ass then your dogs.

I'm out exploring the a small part of the world these days not to run away from home, hide from some past demons, avoid the FBI (maybe the CIA) but not the FBI, or anything of that nature. I'm here because my parents have always taught me to follow my heart -- sure you'll fuck up at times and succeed beyond your wildest imagination at others -- but follow your heart, do what you believe is right.

Here I am with their blessing. I'm sure they'd like to have me home, cook me dinner -- or take me out to sushi, but we've had plenty of that and while who knows what the future holds -- I believe there will be plenty more of that to come.

For now while my knees are still in tact, my heart still burning with a passion to explore, and my wallet above the red I'll be out here -- maybe Israel -- maybe Europe or Austrlia, but definitely not Canada or Egypt.

Today my dad will be enjoying a cigar or two at Smith Mountain Lake, playing backgammon, and quenching his thirst with some beers -- or, unfortunately more likely a Mike's Hard Lemonade.  I'll be in Kiryat-Ata, Israel enjoying a shakshouka dinner and a Sunday evening yoga class.

So a happy father's day to you pops, lord knows -- and more importantly your kids know you deserve it to be a relaxing one-- please drink your fruity drinks responsibly, and although you won't let's try to keep the jokes somewhat appropriate today.

Screw it, if it makes people laugh it's funny.


While I continue my adventures here, I'd like to send a congratulations to my cousin Danny who is enjoying a wild adventure of his own; his first father's day with his less then a week old baby Emily Claire Crincoli who came into this world on June 15th.



However with the good unfortunately comes the sad, because today my Uncle Bill will experience his first father's day without his baby boy Dalton who passed away last August after a six year battle with Ewings-Sarcoma cancer. Not a day goes by we don't remember Dalton, but I can't imagine today not hurting just a little bit more. Can you?


How wild the spectrum of emotions one day can create. 



"When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around.  But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years."